FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Scott Trebatoski, Lee County Animal Services
               (239) 432-2090, ext. 230

LEE ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER/PIO NAMED TOPS IN STATE

FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 18, 2003) - An animal control officer with Lee County Animal Services has been named "Animal Control Officer of the Year" for the state of Florida and the agency's public information officer has received the "Humane Educator of the Year" award for 2003.

Animal Control Officer Shawn Iovine and Public Information Specialist Ria Brown were recognized by the Board of Lee County Commissioners today for their accomplishment (click here to view the Board's resolution http://www.lee-county.com/meetings/agendafiles/2003/11-18-03/Public%20930%20AM/930%205.pdf.. Animal Services Director Scott Trebatoski attended the annual conference of the Florida Animal Control Association over the weekend and picked up the awards.

The Florida Animal Control Association is the professional association of animal control agencies for Florida's 67 counties. It sets industry standards for training and professional behavior, and promotes legislative changes to improve public safety.

Also, for the first time in FACA history, the entire Kennel Operations Team for Lee Animal Services was nominated for the individual award of "Caretaker of the Year" and received an Honorable Mention in that category.

Lee County Animal Services was one of only three agencies in the state to receive multiple awards.

Officer Shawn Iovine was named Animal Control Officer of the Year for his dedication, community policing, customer service skills, high complaint resolution, and his willingness to do what needs to be done regardless of day, time, or effort. Officer Iovine is the first Animal Control Officer to receive this award for Lee County.

Ria Brown was named Humane Educator of the Year for her innovative programs in education, adoption programs, promotions and community relations. Ria has worked hard since 1997 in this field and is recognized as the leader in this area of expertise in public shelters throughout Florida. Ria has previously been recognized by other agencies for her programs and accomplishments.

Lee County Animal Services enforces all laws and ordinances relating to the licensing and possession of pets in Lee County and its cities. Activities include responding to animal nuisance complaints, conducting cruelty and neglect investigations, performing animal rescues and administering licensing, rabies control, and educational programs. Animal Services also runs an animal shelter, located at 5600 Banner Drive near the Sheriff's Office off Ben C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Parkway, for lost and abandoned pets.

The division employs 41 people, including 15 animal control officers, and has an annual operating budget of $3 million.