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  • Winter Haven approves plan to redevelop 4 historic buildings

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Downtown Winter Haven is about to get a makeover.

    The city recently approved plans to redevelop four historic vacant buildings in the heart of downtown.

    What You Need To Know

    • Four historic buildings in downtown Winter Haven will undergo a transformation
    • City officials approved a plan to help redevelop four buildings in the downtown area
    • The plant will include adding a salon, wellness center, workspaces and more
    • Construction will be done in two phases tentatively set to be completed by 2027


    Stepping into Art & Framing On the Park, Sean Greear describes it as an organized chaos.

    He’s been in business for 15 years, helping give every piece of art a new life with a custom frame. 

    “It has an opportunity to bring warmth to a home,” he says.

    It’s that warmth that he hopes will also spread into the downtown area, as the city approved a $20 million plan to renovate four historic buildings in the heart of downtown.

    For Greear, he sees this development as a positive for the city.

    “The ones that sort of are still here, it’s just very comforting, nobody wants to see blight, everybody wants to see somebody filling these store fronts,“ he said.

    The redevelopment would focus on Taylor, Mowery North and South and the Hoffman buildings. The project would include a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, reception area, wellness center and more.

    City manager T. Michael Stavres says this project will help preserve the history of the area while creating a busier downtown.

    “When these four buildings get renovated and activated, you know that’s one more draw in, you may come for a hair appointment at this new salon which causes you to be downtown, walk about and see what else is down here,” says Stavers.

    For business owners like Carissa Hughes, it could mean a new clientele stepping into her bakery. “Definitely makes it more inviting for people outside of our area,” she said.

    Her business, Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop, has been open for 10 years, not too far from where the redevelopment will take place.

    Hughes says she’s seen growth happen over the years. She thinks this project will put Winter Haven on the map as a place where families can live, work and play.

    “It’s definitely something that has been wanted and we’ve been waiting for, and we’re really excited to see that actually come to fruition now,” she said.

    It’s so that more people can enjoy a piece of what the city has to offer.

    The timeline of full restoration is tentatively broken up into two phases. The first phase will be completed in July of 2026, while the second phase will have a completion date of May of 2027.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • P.A.C.K. Camp returns for 28th year in Pasco County

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — For the 28th year, P.A.C.K. Camp is back in Pasco County.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Pasco Association for Challenged Kids takes in kids with disabilities that other camps can’t take

    • Founders Paula and Barry Cohen started the camp in 1997 for their son

    • Due to rising costs, P.A.C.K. is accepting donations


    P.A.C.K. stands for the Pasco Association for Challenged Kids. It’s an annual summer camp that takes in kids with disabilities that other camps can’t take.

    Paula and Barry Cohen started the camp originally for their son Gregory, who is autistic, in 1997.

    “The reason we need to keep going is we take the kids who aren’t potty trained. Who aren’t verbal, who can be aggressive, who can run away. So the camp is really for those kids because they really can’t go anywhere else and be safe,” Paula said.

    The camp is now held for three weeks at Pepin Academies in New Port Richey. More than 40 campers enrolled this year.

    Campers take part in a variety of activities that help them have a fun summer, like any other kid at camp.

    P.A.C.K. receives state funding, but due to the rising costs for supplies and activities, they rely on donations to keep costs down for families and to make their budget.

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    Tim Wronka

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  • State grants $1.2M towards rebuilding Anna Maria City Pier

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — It will cost millions of dollars, but city officials say it’s worth it to restore what they call an island icon after Hurricane Milton destroyed Anna Maria City Pier.

    Last week, the state budget allocated $1.2 million in funding toward rebuilding the entire pier.

     What You Need To Know

    • Officials say the state budget allocated $1.2 million in funding toward rebuilding the entire Anna Maria City Pier

    • The mayor of Anna Maria says officials are working with FEMA and the county to seek extra funding

    • The mayor explains that the goal reopening date for Anna Maria Pier is late fall 2026

    Officials say the pier could cost up to $9 million to repair. That might seem like a lot, but many islanders — including the ones who used to work here — say it’s worth it to bring a piece of the island back.

    But officials say just last week the city learned it will receive $1.2 million from the state that will go toward rebuilding the pier. That will only cover some of the overall cost, though.

    Anna Maria City Mayor Mark Short told Spectrum Bay News 9 the most costly part is rebuilding the infrastructure and walkway.

    The mayor says the city is still finishing up the demolition process, but that it’s important to reopen the pier because “the pier is iconic. It’s one of the most visited places in all of Manatee County,” he said.

    The mayor of Anna Maria says officials are working with FEMA and the county to seek extra funding. The goal reopening date for Anna Maria City Pier is late fall 2026.

    An island local’s reaction

    Destiny Brown works as a cashier at Anna Maria General Store for the summer.

    She’s been forced to make ends meet. She used to work as a cashier and social media manager at City Pier Grill, a restaurant on Anna Maria City Pier. Last October, Hurricane Milton destroyed the pier — and the job she held full time for five years was gone, leaving her searching.

    “There was an open house for Manatee County, the school district, and I went there and got a teacher aide position pretty shortly after. So that’s what I started doing. And now I’m going to be an English teacher at King Middle,” she said.

    But before the school district hired her, life was a little rocky.

    “It was very important to me. I worked there every day,” she said. “I immediately applied for government help. That’s why I started looking for a job immediately. We were really worried.”

    And so are many others who loved Anna Maria City Pier.

    It could cost between $6 and $9 million to repair the entire pier, including the restaurant — an investment Brown says is worth it.

    “It’s just a local legend back, basically. So that’s going to be awesome seeing everyone back to fishing in the area,” she said.

    Rebuilding isn’t simple — but a symbol like the city pier being restored would bring hope to Brown and her island community.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Horace West leads Haines City youth football programs for decades

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Youth league football is a big deal in the Polk County community of Haines City.

    There is one name that is synonymous with that. It is Horace West. The former mayor of Haines City has dedicated decades to making sure young athletes get a chance to play the sport they love.

    West is now affiliated with the Haines City Vipers, a youth football program he started. West got his start in local youth football by starting the Haines City Rattlers in 1991.

    Over the years, he has started about 20 other football programs in other local communities. He also started a youth football conference with dozens of teams.

    These days, West is more of an advisor rather than a coach.

    “I’m old enough to be everybody’s dad or grandfather, so I just give them advice,” said West.

    West has helped to mentor several players who ended up playing in the NFL. That includes Los Angeles Chargers’ safety Derwin James. For West, the goal of football is bigger than just athletics.

    “Because we are trying to teach young boys how to be young men. So that’s the key,” he said.

    West’s coaches put their players through tough practices and hope for success in games. But respect is more important.

    “The coaches talk to them like drill sergeants, but they understand they can’t use profanity, touch them in any harsh way or anything like that,” West said.

    West said he wants to make sure that the football program has longevity. So, he is always looking for new community members to get involved.

    “My philosophy is that you have to recreate yourself. You have to reinvent yourself every so many years,” he said. “Because if you don’t, the program dies with the people who ran it.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Guide to 4th of July fireworks, events across Tampa Bay

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is commemorating the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain in 1776 and establishing the United States of America. It is often celebrated with family and friend gatherings, barbeques, parades and fireworks.

    Tampa Bay is ready for the holiday with an array of parades and firework shows for all ages. Here’s a county-by-county list of events that are happening around the area.

    All events take place on July 4 unless otherwise stated.
     

    Citrus County

    • Patriotic Evening
      July 3, 5 p.m. | Liberty Park
      The city of Inverness will be hosting its annual fireworks show over Lake Henderson. The event will feature musical performances by Mock of Ages: The Ultimate Def Leppard Tribute and Smokey Jones and The 3 Dollar Pistols. There will also be vendors and plenty of family-friendly activities.
    • 4th of July Celebration
      4 p.m. | Kings Bay Park
      Join the city of Crystal River for a 4th of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, games, kids’ activities and a fireworks show over Kings Bay.

     

    Hernando County

     

    Hillsborough County

    • Boom by the Bay
      4 p.m. | Tampa Riverwalk
      The city of Tampa’s annual 4th of July festivities will encompass The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works, Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf and the Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River. The event will offer live entertainment, a pickleball tournament and food trucks.
    • July 4th Boat Parade
      5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Sparkman Wharf
      Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat. This year’s theme is “Salute to Service,” to celebrate military heroes with a patriotic display on the water. There will also be a water ski show and fireworks.
      VIEW MORE INFORMATION IN OUR BOAT PARADE GUIDE

    • 4th of July Celebration
      July 4 – July 6 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
      Enjoy Independence Day festivities at Busch Gardens, featuring complimentary beer samples, live performances and a fireworks show choreographed with an arrangement of music and lights.
    • Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America: July 4th Festival
      1 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
      Get ready for an day filled with food, contests and live entertainment, culminating in a patriotic drone show at sunset. There will be an after party until 11 p.m.

     

    Manatee County

     

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    • The Fourth
      July 4, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Family Park on the St Pete Pier 
      July 5, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Throughout St Pete Pier
      The city of St. Petersburg’s annual fireworks show returns with live performances, vendors, food trucks and a family fun zone. Fireworks will be visible from the entire downtown waterfront. (Note: activities vary each day)
    • Clearwater Celebrates America 2024
      5 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Coachman Park
      There will be a free, patriotic performance throughout Coachman Park. Guests can enjoy local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities and live music.
    • Treasure Island 4th of July Fireworks
      9 p.m. | Treasure Island Beach
      Celebrate America by watching fireworks light up the sky over Treasure Island Beach. The best viewing areas will be near the Gulf Front Park area of the beach located at 10400 Gulf Blvd.
    • 4th of July Parade & Celebration
      10 a.m. | James Ernst Park
      The event, presented by the Town of Kenneth City and the Kenneth City Police Department, features a day of food, live music, vendors and more. The parade starts at Gabe’s 46th Avenue North and 66th Street North, then down 46th Avenue North to James Ernst Park.
    • 4th of July Picnic in Craig Park
      10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Craig Park
      Bring the family to enjoy live music, a water slide, live music, inflatables, lawn games and more.
    • The city of Gulfport’s 4th of July Celebration
      10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Tomlinson Park
      Officials stated that due to extensive damage sustained in the downtown area, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show is canceled. The city will instead host a 4th of July Community Parade and Picnic at Tomlinson Park. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a viewing spot. There will be live music, food, children’s activities and more.

    Polk County

     

    According to our Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologists, the Bay area will see high rain chances for the 4th of July. Be sure to download our Spectrum News app to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in your area and track the weather with our Klystron 9 radar.
     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Crystal River home raised in time for hurricane season

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — With hurricane season now in full swing, many homeowners in the Tampa Bay area are making preparations for what comes with it. 

    From stocking up on hurricane supplies to making reinforcements around the house, the list goes on. But some are deciding to go above expectations, taking their storm preparations to new heights.

    Perched along the water’s edge of King’s Bay stands a modern marvel of present day engineering.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homeowners throughout the Tampa Bay area are getting ready for hurricane season

    • Some are going above expectations, taking their storm preparations to new heights and raising their homes
    • There has been a total of five homes raised in the city of Crystal River this year
    • It can be an expensive decision for homeowners, but there are grants available, including Elevate Florida


    “It’s really remarkable that they figured out ways to get the homes out of the flood zone and elevate them this way,” said city of Crystal River Growth Management Director Carly Hanson, who is overseeing the latest home to be raised in Crystal River with the city’s Growth Management team.

    “We do have this conversation with residents often, though, debating what’s the best option for them in future hurricane seasons to protect themselves,” said Hanson. “Sometimes it’s lifting the existing structure, like this example, and sometimes it’s building on top of their existing home, creating new livable space above.”

    This particular home, Hanson says, is one of five within the city that have recently been raised. She says the owners made the decision after their houses were damaged during last year’s hurricanes.

    Choosing to elevate a home comes with a few requirements.

    “Making sure the ground is stable enough to support the elevation,” said Hanson. “And then it also looks at the structural stability of the home’s foundation to determine if it’s a good candidate for elevation. From there, there’s a building permit and engineered plans that make sure all the math works out.”

    It can be an expensive decision for homeowners but one that comes with a few perks, Hanson says, like a decreased insurance price. There are also grants to be applied for that can help with cost, including Elevate Florida.

    “The goal of that program is to expedite these home elevation grants that are made available through the State of Florida and through FEMA. We get those funding opportunities annually. There’s about $300 million allotted statewide for residential mitigation — that includes elevation, demolition and reconstruction.”

    Aside from grants, there are a few other things Hanson says interested homeowners should keep in mind if they decide to raise their homes.

    “Get with your local jurisdiction to outline what these policies look like in your jurisdiction,” she said. “And ultimately, a raised home is a safer home. With hurricane season coming up, it’s important to make these considerations.”

    It’s a decision that could make all the difference when dealing with a hurricane.

    The State of Florida’s application window for Elevate Florida is currently closed. Hanson says residents should reach out to their local government office to get on a list to be notified when that funding option becomes available.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Lakeland mobile home community suffers damage after recent storm

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — One mobile home community is already feeling the impact of rainy season after a thunderstorm hit Lakeland on June 10.

    What You Need To Know

    • A severe thunderstorm on June 10 caused multiple roofs to collapse in a Lakeland mobile home community

    • Resident David Grubbs and his family were inside when the roof caved in but were unharmed, as the collapse affected unoccupied rooms

    • Grubbs said he was concerned about the months ahead, emphasizing that residents like him are bracing for more severe weather as hurricane season begins


    Several roofs caved in at Lake Deeson Village following the storm. Resident David Grubbs said he didn’t notice the damage to his mobile home until Spectrum News knocked on his door.

    Grubbs was inside with his family when heavy winds and rain swept through the Lakeland area.

    He said he heard a loud sound but thought it was just the front door. Fortunately, he says the roof collapsed into two rooms that weren’t occupied.

    “I guess we got lucky. I guess very lucky. I’m so happy,” he said.

    The Florida native says the damage is similar to what he experienced during Hurricane Milton. He says Rebuild Florida replaced his family’s trailer shortly after that storm, and he believes they’ll do it again. But he’s concerned, as this is just the start of hurricane season.

    “Anything can happen. This is a crazy world we live in,” he said. “You can’t tell with hurricanes. Hurricanes are crazy. They kind of have a mind of their own.”

    Grubbs said he understands that storm damage comes with the territory when living in Florida. He’s confident he and his loved ones will be able to weather whatever lies ahead — like they’ve done many times before.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • PHOTOS: Protesters gather across Central Florida for nationwide demonstration

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Thousands of protests took place nationwide Saturday in what organizers called “No Kings Day.”

    The protests come in response to President Donald Trump’s military birthday parade. 

    Organizers said they want to defend democracy. Several people rallied in cities across Central Florida to participate in the demonstrations.

    Take a look at our photo gallery below:

    One demonstration got underway in Orlando late Saturday afternoon.

    “This is time for us to come together as a country and we need to heal, we need to work together,” attendee Sandra Henry said.

    Also part of the crowd, Democratic State Representative Anna Eskamani of Orange County.

    “The energy is wonderful,” she said. “I mean this is such a reflection of who we are as central Floridians.”

    Eskamani also said she is using this time to enhance voter registration efforts.

    Other cities in Central Florida also saw demonstrations, including where Casselberry hundreds of people showed up Saturday morning.

    “There are more of us than there are of them,” attendee Beth Reeser said.

    The Orlando demonstration is expected to run until 7:30 p.m.

    As those protests took place, supporters of President Trump came together to celebrate Flag Day, as well as President Trump’s 79th birthday.

    “I just believe that we should be out here showing support for our president, because a nation divided cannot stand, that is Abraham Lincoln’s words,” Madeira Beach resident Matthew Harris said. “I’m a good conservative. I don’t call myself Republican, I don’t call myself anything. I’m a patriot, whoever is good for our country, that’s who I vote for.”

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    Devin Martin, Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Mallory Nicholls, Curtis McCloud

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  • New exhibit at Heritage Village showcases Pinellas County pioneering family

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    LARGO, Fla. — A new exhibit at the Heritage Village is showcasing one of the area’s most influential families.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County’s Heritage Village is celebrating a new exhibit: the Turner Bungalow Collection

    • Showcasing more than 5,000 personal artifacts from the Turner family, which was one of seven pioneering families in Pinellas County’s earliest history
    • Built in 1915, the Turner family bungalow was home to Amber Elizabeth Clark and Alfred Cleveland Turner
    • Heritage Village will be turning 50-years-old next year with events planned around the celebration


    Pinellas County is celebrating the grand opening of the Turner Bungalow collection, showcasing more than 5,000 personal artifacts from the Turner family. The Turners were one of seven pioneering families in Pinellas County’s earliest history. The new exhibit is taking visitors on a journey through time to old Florida.

    “It’s so much better than I remember,” says Amber Turner Shadd, walking through the Turner Bungalow.

    Crossing the threshold of an old relative’s home, Jack Turner and Amber Turner Shadd take a walk through time.

    “There’s just so many cool things in the house that I get to see now as an adult and go, ‘Wow, that’s a piece of my family’s history,’” Turner Shadd said.

    Turner is Turner Shadd’s great-uncle. She said she remembers visiting the house on occasion when she was a little girl.

    Built in 1915, the Turner family bungalow was home to Amber Elizabeth Clark and Alfred Cleveland Turner.

    “In the 80s, my mom used to help Amber with things around the house. Running errands, that kind of stuff,” Turner Shadd said. “So, even as a little kid, I got to come in the house and be a part of it and see all of the cool old things.”

    The bungalow is now the latest addition to Pinellas County’s Heritage Village.

    “Heritage Village was, essentially, born in 1976,” said Monica Drake, the historical museum operations manager at Heritage Village. “It was a response to the bicentennial movement, and that was not particular to Pinellas County. It was a nationwide trend that saw a lot of different historical organizations and societies pop up to really collect, preserve and save their local history.”

    The Turners were one of seven pioneering families in Pinellas County’s earliest history — and the family still has roots firmly planted in the area.

    “This is really unique, because we have one family’s material culture that was donated to us along with the house,” said Drake. “So, this really is a comprehensive view of a family’s life from the 1940s in Pinellas County.”

    Heritage Village is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The village will be turning 50-years-old next year with events planned around the celebration.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Juneteenth celebrations across Tampa Bay for 2025

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after former President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.

    The day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, where Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free — two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — which had become official January 1, 1863.

    Today, Juneteenth is celebrated to reflect and recognize achievements in the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities that will be taking place around Tampa Bay.

    Citrus County

    Hernando County

    Hillsborough County

    • City of Tampa Annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony and Festival
      Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | City Center at Hanna Avenue
      Join Mayor Jane Castor and community members as they gather to raise the Juneteenth flag. There will be free food and various vendors.
    • Juneteenth Cultural Celebration
      Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
      Prepare for a community celebration featuring art-making activities, live music and performances, photobooth experience, gallery discussions, local vendors, and more.
    • Arts Legacy Remix
      Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. | Straz Center – Jaeb Theater
      Arts Legacy Remix celebrates the different cultures and talented local artists who reside in the Tampa Bay area. The group is putting on its fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration, featuring spoken remembrances, writings of historical importance and an original performance of music, poetry and dance.
    • Tampa Police Juneteenth Summer Block Party
      Thursday, June 19, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Perry Harvey Sr. Park
      This event will feature local vendors, nonprofits, special recognitions and raffles. 
    • Juneteenth Film Celebration
      Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
      The film celebration will exhibit local Tampa Bay area films, filmmakers and actors. There will be several previews, short films and features showcased at the event. The event is free, but requires pre-registration online. 
    • Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival
      June 16 – 21, 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
      This is a multi-day festival featuring a youth summit, a “Cultural Couture Ball,” a public discussion about issues within the community, a family fun day at Topgolf and celebration featuring DJs, vendors and dance performances. The events are free, but it is a ticketed event.

    Manatee County

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    Polk County

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    DeJanae Phillips

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  • Construction on new Skybrooke Elementary School nearing completion

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    LUTZ, Fla. — Construction on a brand-new Pasco County school is nearing completion.

    What You Need To Know

    • Skybrooke Elementary will be Pasco County Schools’ newest K-8 school located in Lutz

    • The school is designed to occupy a full capacity of 1,800 students with ten classrooms per grade level, making Skybrooke one of the largest schools in the county

    • There will be an emphasis on STEM courses with an aerospace aviation pathway being laid out for middle schoolers

    • Seats are still available for K-7th grade school-of-choice students to sign-up, with the last window opening on Monday


    Skybrooke Elementary will serve as Pasco County Schools’ newest K-8 school starting next school year. The goal is to ease overcrowding with this new school that’s “designed” to be different.

    Serving as the school’s principal will be Michele Boylan, who is coming from Bexley Elementary with years of experience as a teacher and administrator.

    “We’re excited to see this space come to life,” said Boylan. “I’m super excited to lead this school and provide opportunities for students starting in VPK all the way through 8th grade.”

    The school is designed to occupy a full capacity of 1,800 students, with ten classrooms per grade level. That makes Skybrooke one of the largest schools for K-8 in Pasco County.

    The hallways of Skybrooke are also without a usual feature.

    “There’s no more lockers!” said Boylan. “Kids are carrying their materials, but not all, because we also understand that can be a lot. Teachers strategically set up storage areas to keep curriculum in the classroom and in an organized way so students have their books with them.”

    The school is taking a fresh, modern approach to education in the district thanks to recommendations from parents and staff. That includes a concentration on STEM courses and athletics.

    “We are starting with an aerospace aviation pathway for middle schoolers,” said Boylan. “We’re also working, over the summer, with a group of teachers to plan ‘what does that look like starting in kindergarten? How do we embed the skills and the knowledge that these kids will need for aerospace and aviation?’”

    It’s an ambitious plan, helping shape the minds of tomorrow’s critical thinkers.

    “We want to start kids off with their school experience just loving coming to school,” said Boylan.

    Boylan says there are still seats available for those school-of-choice students to sign-up. Seats are available for K-7th grade.

    The last school of choice window opens on Monday.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Manatee County leaders to lay groundwork for superintendent search

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Manatee County School Board members hope to make crucial steps Tuesday in the search for the district’s next superintendent.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Manatee County School District is home to 42,000 students and continues to grow

    • In May, the board voted 3-2 to terminate the contract of former Superintendent Dr. Jason Wysong

    • The district has had four superintendents in less than 12 years 


    Board members plan to pick a consulting firm that will help facilitate the search and then set the timeline that the search and interview process should follow.

    Charlie Kennedy, who represents District 3, says the board is working towards having a new superintendent selected and contract signed by the start of school on Aug. 11.

    Kennedy says his top priority is to the find the highest quality person for the job that they can.

    “It would be nice to have somebody in by the start of the year because that way you’re kicking off the school year with new leadership,” he said. “But the most important thing is getting it right.”

    This is what Kennedy called a “compressed” timeline — given the search two years ago that netted Dr. Jason Wysong as the superintendent — took between seven to eight months.

    Wysong kept the top spot for just shy of two school years, before the school board voted 3-2 to terminate his contract last month.

    His termination agreement states he will be employed with the district through mid-August but only as an “Administrative Transitional Consultant.”

    Manatee County has struggled to find stability with superintendents over the last 12 years. Between 2013 through 2018, both Rick Mills and Diana Greene only stayed for a few years each. In 2018, the district decided to forgo a nationwide search instead hiring Deputy Superintendent Cynthia Saunders to take the spot. Saunders was serving as interim superintendent at the time and soon after she took over was accused of inflating graduation rates.

    She then announced her retirement in 2022, and the most recent exhaustive superintendent search kicked off.

    Kennedy says it’s important to him that the new superintendent has experience within the state of Florida, but it doesn’t need to be experience within the Manatee County School District itself.

    “The Florida education landscape is just such rocky terrain with finance and education law and the culture war stuff that’s still bubbling out there,” he said. “So you need someone who can handle all of that. I’m going to keep an open mind. I just want to see us cast the widest net we can.”

    There’s at least three consulting firms that have submitted proposals to head up the superintendent search.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Popular Holmes Beach shopping center to hold grand reopening after Helene

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Jennifer Moore owns her beach shop, Sun and Surf, that has been in her family since 1983.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hurricane Helene flooded Jennifer Moore’s business with roughly four feet of water, damaging nearly everything inside

    • After months of hard work and repair, she has reopened Sun and Surf

    • A grand reopening event is taking place Friday, June 6 at the Island Shopping Center to celebrate all businesses
    • The event runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.


    “So I grew up here. I was 11, and I was in the store after school. I would come in and do little projects,” she said.

    And now that’s the same hope for her kids.

    But at one point, it was hard to imagine if this place would still be here.

    Hurricane Helene flooded her business with roughly four feet of water, damaging nearly everything inside.

    Moore says she knew it was going to be tough to recover from all that was lost in the storm.

    But with hard work and dedication, repairs were made, and she just reopened her store last month.

    “We were closed for eight months. It was extremely difficult. But we powered through it and we got through it at the end, and we conquered it,” she said. “It made us stronger in all, and hopefully better. It was like this upgrade we all got at once.”

    She says neighboring stores in the Island Shopping Center started opening up more recently, which prompted her to organize a grand reopening celebration for all stores in the plaza to take place Friday, June 6 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m..

    She wants to highlight the businesses’ resiliency to bounce back after the storms and let shoppers know they’re open for business.

    “This is like a second home, this plaza. I come here every day. And this is just a feeling of home where I grew up. And now my children are growing up. And how all these different businesses and the community — how we’ve all come together,” she said.

    Moore is ready for this next step, coming out of rebuilding and bringing the community together once again.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Local groups push to bring senior center to Lakeland

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — Through the doors of College Heights United Methodist Church, the Rath Senior Connextions Center runs its daily operations, working to meet the needs of seniors across the city.

    What You Need To Know

    • Despite seniors making up over 20% of Lakeland’s population, the city does not have a dedicated location for them

    • Rath Senior Connextions and their partners have been working for years to establish a senior center, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible support for older residents

    • The city of Lakeland has pledged $100,000 toward the creation of a senior hub, but only if community groups can match it


    Inside, calls from community members roll in throughout the day. Longtime volunteer Charlie Burdette says those calls range from people needing a ride to those looking for housing.

    “We get such a variety of things, and then we get really hard things,” Burdette said. “It is particularly difficult for seniors who have moved here and don’t know anything about the resources available — and even people who have lived here all their lives aren’t aware of them.”

    Executive director Dr. Rose Marie Lamm says she created the Rath Senior Connextions Center for that very reason. Before starting the nonprofit 21 years ago, Lamm says seniors in Lakeland didn’t have a place to go for resources or services. Fast-forward to today, she says in many ways, the need is still the same.

    “We don’t have a central center where people can go physically and hear about actual services that are available,” she said.

    Despite U.S. Census data showing that residents age 65 and older make up more than 20% of Lakeland’s population, Lamm says the city is one of the few areas in the Tampa Bay region without a central location for senior services.

    After years of pushing for a senior center, the Lakeland Senior Hub — a collaborative initiative that includes several groups, including the Rath — got the chance to present a plan to city commissioners in 2024. However, Lamm says the idea received mixed reactions from leaders.

    “We already have services for seniors. We have services, but nothing is coordinated. And how are people supposed to find things when they’re not coordinated?” she said. “And remember, we also have to keep in mind that seniors aren’t all online. It’s hard for younger people to even begin to understand that. So, we had to present that, and I’m not sure it was completely understood.”

    Ultimately, city officials agreed to a $100,000 contribution on the condition that the Senior Hub can match the funds. Now, the Rath and its collaborative partners are working to raise the money to bring the center to life.

    But Lamm says they’ll need the community’s help.

    “Any amount would be wonderful,” she said.

    In the meantime, volunteers like Burdette will remain by the phone, continuing to connect with those who rely on their support.

    To learn more about how you can support the Lakeland Senior Hub, visit their website.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Haines City community raises concerns after weekend flooding

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Concerns are growing in one Polk County neighborhood just days after several inches of water threatened homes during a storm on Sunday. 

    What You Need To Know

    • People living on Georgene Road say floodwaters from Sunday’s storm took days to recede and caused property damage

    • Resident Amanda May believes runoff from new construction is worsening flooding near her home

    • Polk County plans to discuss the issue, but May says action should have been taken sooner


    Inside her home, Amanda May tried to find a little joy in the midst of a difficult week.

    “Surprising my daughter with a little graduation surprise when she gets off the bus,” she said.

    To celebrate, May decorated her dining room with streamers and photos of her 13-year-old daughter, Bailee. She said it was a small way to lift their spirits.

    “You know, I’m trying my best,” she said. “The one thing I don’t want to do is lose my house. That’s my biggest fear.”

    May says her late husband purchased the home on Georgene Road before he died of cancer in 2015. Since moving in, she says she hadn’t experienced any issues — until her home flooded during a storm last year. It happened again on Sunday, and this time, she says the water damaged her walls.

    “It was water all in my floors right here, and then I noticed my drywall started bubbling up,” she said inside her bedroom. 

    May believes the flooding was caused by runoff from a new housing development behind her property. She says she has reached out to the county several times in recent months, but has been frustrated by the responses.

    “I can get flood insurance, raise my yard, put in drainage, or sell my house,” she said.

    The Polk County native says she’s already done most of what officials suggested — and more — but nothing has worked.

    According to Polk County’s upcoming stormwater agenda, leaders plan to discuss flooding on Georgene Road. But May wishes they had acted sooner. 

    “I think they should’ve done this when I called them the first time last year. Why wait now, when I have damages to my house? And who’s going to help me pay for it?” she said. “This is their fault. This is someone’s responsibility — putting damage to my house — and now I have to pay for it.”

    Spectrum Bay News 9 reached out to Polk County regarding May’s concerns. We are still waiting for their response.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Lacoochee Elementary’s Odyssey of the Mind team makes school history

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    LACOOCHEE, Fla. — Lacoochee Elementary made history last week when the school’s Odyssey of the Mind team competed in the World Finals for the first time ever, and placed in the top third of teams.

    What You Need To Know

    • Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition, but there’s not one right answer to the problem; students must work together to create the solution

    • Students from Lacoochee Elementary School compete in the World Finals in Michigan 

    • Lacoochee Elementary’s team placed in the top third of teams, taking 20th place in the world


    Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition, but there’s no one right answer to the problem as students must work together to create the solution.

    The World Finals were hosted in Lansing, Michigan, this year, and students raised enough money to pay for the whole team to go thanks to generosity from the community.

    “Welcome to NASA gym located on the Planet of Fitness where you can get jacked and muscular, just like me,” said one of the students as they rehearsed their performance for the World Finals.

    The students of Lacoochee Elementary School’s Odyssey of the Mind team are taking you on an intergalactic trip to the Planet of Fitness, and these students had to plan, and create, every aspect of how to get here, solving various problems along the way.

    “Odyssey of the Mind is a teamwork and problem solving creativity program that’s national where students can learn skills that they’re going to need later in life that may help them in their careers,” said Kyara Prezmorales, who just finished fifth grade.

    While some larger schools have nearly a dozen teams, Lacoochee Elementary School has just this one, and this is the first team that’s ever made it worlds.

    “Lacoochee is a little school that is majority poverty but we like to say here, our staff and our principal especially who grew up here in Lacoochee, is that doesn’t define who we are as a school,” said Sadi Avants, who is one of the coach’s for the Odyssey of the Mind team.

    Coaches Avants and Ryah Taggerty say Prezmorales and the team worked hard on their performance since October, competing, and winning, at both regionals and the state competition, never letting their demographics define them, like their principal teaches them.

    “Having everything come together, I could not be more proud of them. We definitely were emotional,” said Taggerty.

    Prezmorales says she’s proud to be a part of the team that made it all the way, hopefully setting a new precedent for the Odyssey of the Mind teams here at Lacoochee Elementary, that you don’t have to be large to be mighty.   

    More than 750 teams from all over the world, ranging from elementary to college age, competed at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals this year.

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • Areas throughout Pasco County seeing significant population boom

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — It’s no secret that in recent years Pasco County has seen a population boom.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County’s population is projected to be about 680,000 people this year, compared to about 495,000 people 10 years ago

    • Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area
    • Wesley Chapel has seen a rise in population, cementing itself as one of the largest populated areas within Pasco County
    • Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills is seeing a similar boom, with officials crediting the city’s sense of community and location as being a key factor


    It is projected the population this year will be about 680,000 people. Compare that to about 495,000 a decade ago. Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area.

    So, what is causing so many to decide to call the area “home?”

    “It is really a hub of economic and educational growth,” said Chad Emory.

    Inside their office, Chad and April Emory are working to keep up with demand.

    “It’s really growing in such a way that people want to move here because of the things that are offered,” said Chad Emory, broker & owner of Emorys Rock Realty. “It’s really great and centrally located for getting down to Tampa, which has all of the entertainment and sports and things like that. It’s a great location.”

    The husband-and-wife duo have called Wesley Chapel home for 22 years. Owning their real estate agency, Emorys Rock Realty, they have an insight on real estate throughout Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Lutz. They understand why homeowners are flocking to the area.


    “One of the first things that families ask about is the schools,” said April Emory. “So, we have an amazing school system in Wesley Chapel, and we were very happy when the colleges came to the area as well. My son had gotten his bachelor’s degree here so that was such a blessing for him.”

    Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills has been experiencing a similar population boom. City manager Billy Poe says it is a feeling of community that’s drawing in people.

    “As a city, we’re obviously trying to control growth and grow smartly but also have that community and hometown feel that I think draws a lot of people to our area,” said Poe.

    In fact, just two years ago, the city had to impose a moratorium. A pause was placed on new housing developments within city limits. While that moratorium is still in place, businesses like Bauducco Foods have broken ground in the area.

    “There are businesses looking at this area, which is a great thing for Zephyrhills and east Pasco as a whole,” said Poe. “Just being able to provide jobs here in Pasco County so our residents don’t have to drive to Hillsborough, Polk, or Pinellas counties. They’re able to work, live and play right here in Zephyrhills.”

    As for what future population trends look like, the Emorys say things are looking quite steady.

    “Every community is just growing and growing with everything they offer within their communities, like shopping and dining,” said April Emory. “So, I think we’re going to continue to see it be a destination location.”

    An area with plenty to offer, working to make sure there are places for people to live and do business.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Sean Sweat runs Lake Hollingsworth with flags to honor veterans

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — A Lakeland man is a beloved familiar sight around Lake Hollingsworth. Sean Sweat stands out for a patriotic reason.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sean Sweat is a firefighter and Army veteran

    • He has been running around Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland with a flag for 15 years to honor veterans

    • Sweat starting running with the flag to honor his old platoon leader who was killed by an IED in Afghanistan

    • Would you like to nominate an Everyday Hero? Click here.


    For the past 15 years, Sweat has been running around the lake with a big American flag. Sometimes he also runs with the flags for the various branches of the military. He does it to honor veterans.

    Sweat said he starting his flag runs around Lake Hollingsworth to honor his old platoon leader, Capt. Josh Byers, who was killed by an (improvised explosive device) IED in Afghanistan.

    “The freedoms we have in this country, people take for granted. They don’t realize the price that is paid,” he said.

    Sweat will be making his way around Lake Hollingsworth on Memorial Day. But he will have to walk instead of run because he is recovering from hip replacement surgery.

    He is determined to keep up his tradition despite the temporary physical setback.

    “It goes back to my time in the service. Especially with my old platoon sergeant,” he said. “He would always tell us, ‘You know, if you can still feel pain, you can still move. Which means you can still finish the mission.’”

    Sweat says he mostly gets very positive responses to the flags as he runs.

    “I’ve had some people hanging out of the windows screaming. Some of the college students and I actually have some of the locals. I’ve had people hang out of their cars waving at me,” he said.

    Sometimes folks walking around the lake strike up a conversation with Sweat. That’s what Shanti Waite did. She is especially enthusiastic about honoring veterans because she has three female cousins serving in the military.

    “Anytime I see anyone willing to serve the country, show that dedication and patriotism and acknowledge. It is always something that I honor and respect,” she said.

    Sweat has also developed friendships with people who admire what he does. That includes retired Navy Cmdr. Charles Waldron, who would salute Sweat from his house across the street from the lake as Sweat ran by.

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Citrus County officials monitoring rapid population growth to ensure stability

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    LECANTO, Fla. — Citrus County’s population is seeing some growth.

    According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county saw a 2.45% surge in its population in the past year. But as the county grows, so too are concerns about whether roads and other infrastructure can keep up. Plans are being made to help ensure stability.

    What You Need To Know

    • With population growth spreading throughout Citrus County, concerns are also growing over whether roads and other infrastructure can keep up

    • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county saw a 2.45% increase in its population in the past year
    • County officials say an additional 22,000 residents have come to Citrus County in the past 10 years


    It’s often described as one of those places off the beaten path.

    “Citrus County is one of those places that is super special,” District 4 Commissioner Rebecca Bays said.

    And Citrus County has seen its fair share of growth in recent years, with new roads and other infrastructure projects being a visual representation.

    “I know it upsets some,’ Bays said. “They think it’s happening a little too fast, but we believe that we’re controlling it.”

    Bays understands that sentiment a little more than most. There has been some recent pushback as to whether the county is sustainable for a larger population.

    But Bays said work is being done.

    “The planning that we’re doing now is really on the front edge,” Bays said. “We’ve worked with a company to do a growth-modeling component, and it is telling us exactly what’s happening in our county in real time.”

    It’s showing where in the county growth is happening, giving Bays and others insight on housing and what’s needed to accommodate it.

    “It tells us exactly where people are moving, how we need to bring in the commercial, how we need to bring in the industrial, and we have some shovel-ready projects,” Bays said. “Our Inverness airport has an industrial park that is basically shovel ready. We’re ready for the first tenant to go in there. It’s an opportunity to create those higher-wage jobs.”

    Bays said there has been an additional 22,000 residents in Citrus County in the past 10 years. And it all comes back to location.

    “We want our kids to have a home that if they decide to go away and get their education, we want them to come back, and we want them to live here and have that good job so that we have that multigenerational family unit here in Citrus County,” Bays said.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • ‘It was a gut punch’: Federal cuts hit Metropolitan Ministries homeless program

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    TAMPA, Fla. — New federal budget cuts to AmeriCorps are affecting programs in the Tampa Bay region. 

    What You Need To Know

    • AmeriCorps roles at Metropolitan Ministries have been eliminated due to federal cuts

    • Metropolitan Ministries is moving $550,000 to create 11 positions to keep Metro BrigAIDe going

    • Most of the Metropolitan Ministries mobile street outreach operations will pause for one month


    Officials with Metropolitan Ministries said they need to reorganize their Metro BrigAIDe program, which had 30 AmeriCorps members serving the homeless community in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. 

    Matthew Fertitta is one of the staff members affected by the cuts. 

    “Our managers called an emergency mandatory meeting between all three counties and canceled all sites, so I was immediately pretty sure that what was happening was that DOGE was cutting our program,” he said.  

    Fertitta isn’t the only one caught off guard. 

    John Paul Comas, the senior director of BrigAIDe Mobile Outreach, said he found out from Volunteer Florida about the cuts through an email. 

    “It was a gut punch,” he said. “It was devastating to know that it could be done so quickly.”

    Since 2018, Metro BrigAIDe has helped thousands of people living on the street gain access to the resources they need. 

    Metropolitan Ministries is not letting the program end, though.

    In response to the federal cuts, the organization is moving $550,000 to create 11 positions to keep Metro BrigAIDe going.

    Comas said the program makes such a big impact, it would be devastating if it disappeared.

    “Help with identification, access to benefits, Social Security, health care, transportation, employment, shelter and housing, reunifying families,” he said. “These are some of the life-saving services that we provide to the folks that are out there on the streets and it was shut down in a way that is just hurtful and harmful to the community.” 

    Metropolitan Ministries leaders say part of the reorganization includes a new staffing model and securing the money needed to keep the BrigAIDe critical services going. 

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    Matt Lackritz

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