ReportWire

Tag: APP Human Interest

  • Toys for Tots extends donation deadline to help children in all age groups

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A program collecting Christmas toys for children in Charlotte is extending its collection deadline to Thursday to help provide toys for children of all ages.

    What You Need To Know

    • Toys for Tots Charlotte has struggled to fulfill requests for assistance this year, including a larger request for help early on and fewer donations

    • Marion Dudley is one of the parents waiting to see if her daughters will be able to receive toys from the program

    • On Wednesday, Toys for Tots met the amount of toys requested
    • Toys for Tots extended its donation deadline to Thursday to fulfill its need for more toys for babies, toddlers and children ages 11 to 16


    During their last collection day, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program in Charlotte hit its goal of 30,000 toys Wednesday night. However, it still needs around 6,000 more toys for ages 0 to 2 and children 11 to 16. 

    For at least six years, Marion Dudley has received toys from the Toys for Tots program for her two daughters, ages 6 and 7.

    “I love to see the joy on the kid’s face, even if it’s only one gift. They get the joy that just makes my heart melt because they go through so much in the year that, it’s good to see them smile,” Dudley said. 

    This year, her daughters wrote letters to Santa for the first time.

    “They wanted to make it special, so they took a magazine and cut out all the pictures of things they liked,” Dudley said. 

    “When they wake up on Christmas Day, they’re looking for a whole bunch of presents under the tree and if I’m not able to do that, then that’s going to make me feel like I failed as a parent,” Dudley said.

    This year, Toys for Tots Charlotte has struggled to fulfill the requests. Toys for Tots Warehouse Chief Darrell Gregory said requests for toys started coming early this year and the group didn’t have many donations. 

    “This year, we have no idea if they’re even going to have the funds to be able to give out toys, because they have so many people that have signed up and nobody really is donating,” Dudley said. 

    Dudley said she has an allied health sciences degree, but it’s not working at the moment because of her children’s schedules and needs. 

    “My 7-year-old, she will be turning eight on the 29th, so a few days after Christmas. My 7-year-old, she has autism level 1, and then my youngest one, she has a rare [genetic disorder] called KBG syndrome, and that comes along with a lot of health issues. We are constantly going back and forth to the doctor,” Dudley said. 

    Dudley said it’s hard for her to make ends meet.

     “We’re just living off of one SSI check, and that’s taking care of all three of us and then, of course, I have bills and everything else that I have to do,” Dudley said. 

    She has reached to other programs for help with toys but have not received calls back.

    “There’s probably a lot of people that still need help with Christmas because, look at the economy, I can only imagine,” Dudley said. 

    Wednesday night, however, a light of hope shone for the Dudleys as Toys for Tots announced it had received the amount of toys needed for her children’s age group.

    Gregory recalls that just a week ago, they had fewer than 1,000 toys, and he said on Wednesday they received almost 10,000 toy donations. 

    While the group is grateful to have met the number of toys requested, they are still working to fill the gap for toys for babies and toddlers and children ages 11 to 16. 

    The group extended the deadline to drop off items at their warehouse at 2701 Hutchison McDonald Road, Suite A, until 4 p.m. Thursday.

    If they cannot meet the need, the group will have to notify families Toys for Tots can’t fulfill their requests. Gregory says he hopes they don’t have to make those calls. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Estephany Escobar

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  • One month since Hurricane Melissa, N.C. group working to help Jamaica recover

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s been one month since Hurricane Melissa wreaked havoc on the Caribbean islands, and the people there still need support. Lincoln Wilmot is reminded of the devastation that hit his home country of Jamaica 

     “It was the most devastating thing I’ve ever seen,” Wilmot of Charlotte said. 

    What You Need To Know

    •  It’s been one month since Hurricane Melissa tore through the Caribbean islands

    • The Jamaican American Cultural Association is gathering supplies for a mission trip to Jamaica 

    • According to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, the death toll across the Caribbean has reached 90 as of Nov. 12


    He was on the island when Hurricane Melissa tore through as a Category 5. 

    “You know, I’m ex-military and it was probably the only time I’ve ever actually been scared for anything,” Wilmot said.

    He was staying only 50 yards from the ocean and saw structures washed away.

    “I felt really bad because I felt that I had a home to go back to, but a lot of these people had nowhere to go,” he said.

    The Jamaican American Cultural Association is organizing supplies for a mission trip to the island.

    The group has collected food, clothing, hygiene products and received $50,000 in medical supplies. It will distributed primarily on the southwest side of the country, where the hurricane did the most damage. 

    “That side is known as the breadbasket of Jamaica. It supplies a lot of the food all over Jamaica, and it affected a third of the Jamaican population,” said Gaynor Russell, president of the association.

    According to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, the death toll across the Caribbean reached 90 as of Nov. 12.

    “The prime minister himself has spoken about the extent of the damage. Even though they had insurance policies to cover damages, it’s still not even a dent into what has happened on the island,” Russell said.

    Even though the journey is far from over, Wilmot knows his people will persevere.

    “People in Jamaica desperately need help, so they’re doing the best they can to survive, and you know they’re strong people. We are strong people. So they have not given up hope, but I’m hoping that the world would continue to send supplies and send help,” Wilmot said.

    The association trip is planned for Dec. 5, and the group has enough monetary donations to build eight houses for families in need. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Arin Cotel-Altman

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  • Vet meets family of Bay Pines VA first Black female employee

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A veteran working at the Bay Pines VA recently discovered a book in the archives that details the life of the first African American woman to work there in the 1940s.  

    It’s a piece of history that he was hoping to share with the woman’s family if he ever found them.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 first reported on the late Deotha Parsons story earlier this month. Parson’s rich history of being the first female African American employee to work at Bay Pines VA in the 1940s is all laid out in a book.

    The book is housed in the archives at the Bay Pines VA. That’s where hospital coordinator for the Disabled American Veterans, John Makas, first discovered it six months ago.

    He said he knew then, he had to find and connect Parsons’ family with the book.

    After the story aired and appeared online, the community connected Spectrum Bay News 9 with Monica Hunt and her brother Erik Butler, Parsons’ grandchildren who live in Washington D.C.

    Makas joined the video call to formally meet them and get their reaction to the story.

    “I thought it was amazing,” Butler said.

    Hunt says she was surprised.

    “Yeah, it was great. I had chills. I was like, ‘Oh wow’ and all of those pictures. But to see all of the rest of the stuff in the book, it was nice to see,” she said.

    Deotha Parsons, the history maker, was just a grandmother to them. She had already retired from VA by the time they were old enough to understand her accomplishments.

    “She wasn’t too much affiliated by the time I got to know her,” Butler said.

    After working for Bay Pines VA, for more than 30 years and retiring in the 1970s the book was created for her retirement. It’s something Makas wants the family to have a piece of.

    “I didn’t want that photo album to get lost. So, my DAV here in the Florida Area, we’re going to get together and we’re going to have that book digitally done for you and I want to give that to your family so that you guys have it,” he said. “That’s something you should have to teach to your grandchildren.”

    Once completed, Makas said he will coordinate with the family to hand them over the new digitized copy of the book.  

    Saundra Weathers

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  • Families spending their holiday at Akron Children’s

    AKRON, Ohio — No one wants to spend their holiday in a hospital bed, but when it happens, you adjust.

    What You Need To Know

    • Akron and Mahoning Valley campuses have 323 beds, and there are currently 196 inpatients between the two

    • In May, Donald “Dewey” White was admitted to Akron Children’s after an accident on a four-wheeler

    • Akron Children’s hosts several holiday events, including the tree lighting celebration

    For some people, that means being with loved ones in the hospital.

    Akron Children’s sees hundreds of thousands of patients a year. A small percentage of those patients find themselves spending the holidays in the hospital. For more than 30 years, the hospital has put on a special event to bring joy to those families.

    In May, Donald “Dewey” White was admitted to Akron Children’s after an accident on a four-wheeler.

    “He came in with a brain injury and had a stroke, and that’s when he had to have brain surgery,” said Sarah Gurbal, a certified child life specialist with Akron Children’s.

    Since then, Dewey has had surgeries and gone to rehab to get his left side working better. Gurbal has been working with Dewey.

    He is one of nearly 200 patients who will be spending this Thanksgiving holiday in Akron Children’s Hospital. Akron and Mahoning Valley campuses have 323 beds. There are currently 196 inpatients between the two. The Akron campus has 281 beds and currently 175 inpatients.

    “Holidays can be really challenging, and I think families do the best they can to provide,” said Gurbal.

    Dewey’s family is bringing Thanksgiving to him.

    “You have to be here,” said Donald White, Dewey White’s dad. “For what? You can’t, you can’t leave a kid unattended just because it’s a holiday, because you want to have fun. It’s not fair to him. He didn’t ask to be here.”

    Donald said his son is very family-oriented, and he loves the holidays

    “He’s not really big on just one,” said White. “He loves everything. He’s got a big heart, just caring.”

    Families like Dewey’s are a big reason why the hospital gets in the holiday spirit. They host several holiday events, including the tree lighting celebration.

    “Families who are here in the hospital and not able to be at home, to celebrate in their own ways during this holiday season, they can see the light from these trees,” said Susan Standberg, the chairman for the 2025 Children’s Tree of Lights. “They can put down their burdens that they have right now and hopefully lift up, enjoy.”

    The annual event presented by the Akron Children’s Women’s Board is celebrating 32 years. Nancy Heslop founded the Tree of Lights event in 1993. Nancy and her husband, John Heslop, died in November 2025. They were married for 59 years and died within a few days of each other.

    The Bambino on top of the tree represents all the children served by the hospital. A new Bambino was produced in 2023 by Wade Brewer-Engineer and replaced the original one. The 2025 Bambino Sponsor is in honor of Mary Briggs, a former Women’s Board member who died in March 2024.

    Strandberg said she’s heard amazing things from families in the past.

    “When they have seen the Perkins tree light up in the square that it has, really, when they see it from their room, that it is just really a beacon in a dark time of year, in a dark time in their lives,” said Strandberg.

    Hope is what keeps Dewey and his family moving forward. Hope is what Gurbal gives to families when they need it most.

    “Just encourage them throughout them being here and just get them back to being who they are,” said Gurbal.

    Dewey is expected to have another surgery the first week of December, and hopefully, he will be home before Christmas.

    Rose Todd

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  • Tampa nonprofit provides jobs for adults with disabilities

    TAMPA, Fla. — This Thanksgiving, dozens of adults with disabilities are thankful for newfound purpose after a Tampa nonprofit just opened its fifth coffee shop uniting people.

    What You Need To Know

    • Coffee Uniting People (CUP) provides jobs for adults with disabilities across Tampa

    • CUP says 80% of adults with disabilities are unemployed, but not unemployable. That’s why they’ve opened five coffee shops around the area

    • Tampa General’s Outpatient Center in Brandon serves as the newest CUP location


    It all starts with freshly ground beans, but there’s something special about every cup of coffee from Tampa-based Coffee Uniting People (CUP).

    “It’s going to be strong coffee. It’ll wake you up,” said Justin Scarle, who has worked for CUP for five months.

    The group, launched by a local attorney and his wife, opened its newest location at Tampa General’s Outpatient Center in Brandon last week.

    CUP employs adults with disabilities and gives them so much more than just a paycheck.

    “Statistics show that about 80% of the folks are unemployed, but not unemployable. We started CUP to address that issue here in Tampa and here we are five coffee shops later,” said founder Greg Jones.

    Alli Schulte, 22, just started working for CUP. She and Scarle are two of more than 60 currently employed by the 501 (c)(3).

    At $14 an hour, Jones says they have a waitlist in the triple digits. So far, Tampa General is loving its new blend of caffeine and care.

    “Honestly, it’s been really, really rewarding. A lot of their team members have faced a lot of adversity throughout their life. But the amazing thing is their outlook on life. They have this positive outlook, they’re always smiling, they’re always in a good mood, and that kind of outlook is really infectious,” said Marion Dawkins, senior vice president of ambulatory operations.

    A bug they don’t mind spreading all across the hospital.

    “If you wake up in the morning and you’re feeling really tired, there’s a cup that can fulfill your needs,” Scarle said.  

    CUP has four other locations across Tampa, with another slated to open in the first quarter of 2026. 

    Andy Cole

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  • Winston-Salem church hosts community meal on Thanksgiving Day

    WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Jasmine Crawford is among the 50 volunteers that helped make hundreds of meals for the community at Piney Grove Baptist Church in Winston-Salem Thursday.

    “It’s always a blessing to be a blessing,” said Crawford, owner of Jasmine’s Kitchen and Catering.

    The spread included a variety of food, including chicken, green beans, mac and cheese and dessert.

    “We have some apple pie,” Crawford said. “Cinnamon apple pie. We have some sweet potato pie. Also, very delicious.”

    Church members were inspired to create this meal giveaway following the recent government shutdown, where millions of Americans faced food insecurities due to a lack of funding for SNAP benefits.

    “We wanted to be a blessing to any and all within our community, and so this was our way of doing just that,” said Pastor Brandon Helton of Piney Grove Baptist Church.

    Crawford has run her own catering company for seven years. She felt a calling to help her church feed those in need this Thanksgiving. 

    “Nobody wants to sit around a table and think that somebody is not eating today,” Crawford said. “This is something that has been placed on my heart to do. I love cooking, so when I can cook for other people, that’s even better.”

    Any leftovers from the lunch are donated to nearby food shelters. Organizers are hoping to make this an annual event. 

    Zach Tucker

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  • Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation helps families fill their shopping carts

    TAMPA, Fla. — For a lot of families, being offered a shopping trip with Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is music to their ears. But the shopping trip they’re taking isn’t what one would typically think of when it comes to filling up shopping bags. But for Mickesha Leggett, it’s right on time.

    “Being that we just went through a government shutdown, it’s a big relief off of some of us parents that’s going through a lot,” she said.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation assisted 250 families at the Silver Oaks Apartment complex

    • Families could choose groceries ahead of Thanksgiving, alleviating financial stress

    • The foundation’s efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to the community since last year’s hurricanes

    With the help of the foundation, Legget was able to pick out the items she wanted ahead of time so she could get items her family would eat. She already had her menu planned out.

    “Macaroni, yellow rice, chicken, string beans, cornbread and a chocolate cake,” she said.

    Leggett is one of about 250 families from the Silver Oaks Apartment complex that the Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is helping this holiday season. It’s part of a commitment organizers here made to those living in the low-income housing complex a year ago.  

    “We’ve been working with Silver Oaks since last year in October after the hurricanes,” said Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation Managing Director, Madison Gergely. “When we went to the community, the members and individuals really touched our CEO and founder, Taneka Bowles. A lot of the residents came to her about how much it meant.” 

    With this food market, the Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is using an approach they know well — shopping in person and filling up grocery bags with what they need.

    “It doesn’t feel like charity. It feels like I’m able to support my family and I’m able to go shopping and get things for my family and for my kids without it being handed to them,” said Gergely.

    It’s a shopping trip Leggett says she couldn’t be more thankful for.

    “They have been amazing. They are great. I mean from the day we started this program until now. I can call on them for any and everything,” she said.

    The S.O.U.L. Food Market shopping experience accepted community donations to help fill the shelves for these families the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

    The Tampa Bay Fashion Experience was founded by Taneka Bowles, wife of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach, Todd Bowles.

    Saundra Weathers

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  • N.C. woman’s nonprofit secures housing for homeless

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The number of people experiencing homelessness in North Carolina has been growing.

    According to the latest stats from the annual homelessness assessment report, the state has seen a 19% increase from 2023 to 2024.

    What You Need To Know

    • Spectrum News 1 is recognizing Hearts For The Invisible Charlotte Coalition Founder Jessica Lefkowitz for the Everyday Heroes segment

    • The goal of her nonprofit is helping people who are unhoused get into the shelter system, a transitional program or permanent housing

    • In 2025, Hearts For The Invisible helped 550 people and secured permanent housing for 117 people


    For the past five years, Hearts For The Invisible Charlotte Coalition Founder and Executive Director Jessica Lefkowitz and her street outreach team have been trying to put a dent in those numbers by offering housing to people who need it most. Her passion to help also comes from a familiar place.

    “My mom dealt with domestic violence, and I remember us having to leave our home in the middle of the night. We did a lot of couch surfing during my childhood. So, I do know what homelessness feels like for a child, and it is very, very traumatic,” Lefkowitz said.

    Her nonprofit helps people who are unhoused by meeting people where they are, whether it be in the woods, near train tracks, in parking lots or on sidewalks. 

    The goal is to help people who are unhoused get into the shelter system, a transitional program or permanent housing.

    In 2025, Hearts For The Invisible helped 550 people and secured permanent housing for 117 people.

    They helped Della Marie Marshall, who slept on benches in Uptown Charlotte.

    The traumatizing memories still bring on tears.

    “I ended up being assaulted. My phone was stolen. So for four months, I had no communication, I had no phone. I was just trying to navigate. Every day, I just thanked the Lord for waking me up,” Marshall said.

    The 69-year-old is also thankful for Lefkowitz and her team.  

    The transplant from Ohio and retired college administrator says she fell on tough times and appreciates the help from Hearts For The Invisible in getting her into an apartment for senior citizens.

    “I could have been lost. I could have just been out there,” Marshall said.

    Lefkowitz says if you see a person who’s unhoused, a simple hello can go a long way.

    “It’s really about treating somebody like a human being, and understanding that housing is a human right and nobody should be outside. Nobody should be outside,” Lefkowitz said.

    Charlotte newspaper “Queen City Nerve” recently named Lefkowitz “Best Local Hero 2025” for their Best In The Nest Awards.

    She also co-leads the annual point in time count, which some know as “the homeless census,” with the Mecklenburg County Community Support Services Team.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Mike Dunston

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  • Seagrove pottery weekend returns

    SEAGROVE, N.C. — Seagrove Pottery Weekend kicked off Friday with one of the community’s most important events of the year, the 18th Annual Celebration of Seagrove Potters Gala, which helps support the Seagrove Area Potter’s Association.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 5,000 people from across the state will visit Randolph County for two major events during Seagrove pottery weekend

    • The 18th Annual Celebration of Seagrove Potters Show and Studio Tour showcases work from 28 local pottery studios, the largest collection of Seagrove pottery in the United States

    • The 43rd Seagrove Pottery Festival features pottery from statewide and local artists



    Every year, over the weekend before Thanksgiving, potters in the area showcase their work at two weekend-long events: the 43rd Annual Seagrove Pottery Festival at Seagrove Elementary and the 18th celebration of Seagrove Potters Show and Studio Tour at the newly renovated Luck Comer Lail Center. 

    Seagrove Stoneware Pottery co-owner Alexa Modderno has been selling her art in the pottery capital of the U.S. for more than 20 years.

    Her co-owner, David Fernandez, is also a potter and serves as mayor of the town. 

    Modderno said they look forward to the weekend every year. 

    “I like it when everyone can get together and see each other, so I look forward to that part of this,” she explained while getting ready for the first night of the three-day event.

    She said pottery weekend also means a boost in traffic for local pottery studios.

    “For the potters here, it is an income for the rest of the winter. In the winter after Christmas, our tourist presentation here diminishes, and so a lot of this gets us through the rest of the year,” Modderno explained.

    So far this year, business has been steady, she said, but some costs of materials have risen.

    “Our clay has gone up a little bit. Some of what’s gone up the most are the ingredients in our glazes, the metals, some are imported so, they have gone up some this year,” Modderno explained.

    More than 100 potters live in the area and rely on the industry to put food on the table. 

    “We have an organization here called the SAPA organization, Seagrove Area Potters Association, and we try and look out for each other. So we started this potters relief group for if someone has health problems or has a disaster happen, then we have this fund. We have our potters’ relief booth, where several of the potters donate pieces to help in case potters run into hard times,” said fellow artist and Seagrove Pottery Association member Eck McCanless. 

    He said the whole town normally sees an increase over the weekend, and although more people are tightening their belts this year, they still expect a great turnout.

    “It’s interesting that sometimes the economy does not reflect what the customers are going to be buying. We tend to do OK because we’re a luxury item. You know, we tend to do OK even in tough times,” McCanless explained.

    The weekend will include live demonstrations, self-guided tours, a kids booth and a chance to interact with potters from across the state.

    Both events help support potters in North Carolina. 

    This year, the 43rd Annual Pottery Festival invited western Carolina artists to come at a discount, and for the first time 25% of the proceeds from the silent auction at Friday’s gala will go toward creating a scholarship fund for local high school seniors pursuing art programs.

    Sasha Strong

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  • Mpox cases on the rise in Mecklenburg County

    Mpox cases have been on the rise in Mecklenburg County, public health officials said Friday. 

    What You Need To Know

    • There were three cases of Mpox in Mecklenburg County in October compared to seven so far this month 

    • Mpox, previously called monkeypox, is most commonly spread through close skin-to-skin contact 

    • Common symptoms include rashes, fever, chills and other flu like symptoms  

    • Vaccinations are available at Mecklenburg County Public Health clinic locations


    There were three cases in October and seven so far this month, according to Mecklenburg County Public Health.

    This comes while Clade I, a more deadly strain of the virus, has been reported in parts of Europe and Africa.

    “While the overall risk from mpox in our community is very low, we encourage those who are at higher risk to take steps to protect their health,” Mecklenburg County’s Health Director Raynard Washington said. “The vaccine remains the best tool we have to prevent mpox and serious complications from the virus.” 

    Mpox, previously called monkeypox, can spread from rodents and primates, like monkeys, to humans, according to the Mayo Clinic. But it is mainly spread person to person through close, skin-to-skin contact with someone who is infected.  

    People at higher risk for contracting the virus are those with weakened immune systems, babies, pregnant women and people who have had eczema.

    Common symptoms include:

    • Rashes
    • Fever
    • Chills
    • Swollen lymph nodes
    • Exhaustion
    • Muscle aches and backache
    • Headache
    • Sore throat
    • Nasal congestion
    • Cough

    Getting vaccinated can help reduce the likelihood of contracting mpox and make symptoms less severe if so.

    Mpox vaccinations are available at Mecklenburg County Public Health clinic locations. People can call 704-336-6500 to make an appointment or walk in any time during business hours. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Caroline King

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  • Some businesses experience impact from Border Patrol presence

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Nov. 15, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents arrived in Charlotte for an immigration operation they called “Charlotte’s Web.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Some businesses are remaining cautious on how they operate after reports of Border Patrol finishing their operation in Charlotte

    • While some business owners don’t plan to reopen anytime soon, including Manolo’s Bakery, others that have remained opened have noticed a drop in customers

    • North Tryon Laundromat, which had Border Patrol at its shopping center Sunday, is experiencing slow business days

    • Businesses in the same shopping center as the laundromat have shorter hours, are focusing on delivery or closed


    According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 370 people have been arrested and 44 of them have a criminal record. The criminal records include aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon, assault of a police officer, battery, driving under the influence, a hit and run and two alleged gang members, according to DHS.

    While Charlotte officials said Thursday the operation had ended but U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement remained in Mecklenburg County, DHS said the operation was far from over. 

    Some businesses closed down for a day or the entire week after the arrival of federal agents. Friday, at a shopping center in North Charlotte, several businesses remained closed. Others appeared closed but were mostly doing deliveries. 

    Many businesses remain cautious after the mixed messaging from local officials and DHS.

    Manolo Betancur, the owner of Manolo’s Bakery, who has been outspoken about his opposition to this operation, closed down his business almost a week ago. 

    The area where his bakery is located became the site of demonstrations against the operation. Friday he joined state and local Democratic leaders, community members and faith leaders during a press conference denouncing the actions of CBP during the past week.

    Betancur doesn’t have plans to reopen in the near future because he said he doesn’t trust federal agents. 

    “The first place they attacked was Central Avenue so it’s not worth it. Let’s not risk it. I would rather lose one day of business, but I don’t want a kid to lose their father,” Betancur said.

    He’s grateful for the community’s support despite being closed. He said he received $26,000 in donations and was able to make payroll and have some money left. 

    Businesses including North Tryon Laundromat never closed, but customers are not frequenting it as usual.

    Owner David Rebolloso said usually the shopping center where the laundromat is located is bustling with business. 

    “This is an all-Hispanic shopping center. And, there’s a lot of activity here is a one-stop shop. There’s groceries and cell phone service and bakery and restaurants and laundry,” Rebolloso said.

    On Sunday, the shopping center where the laundromat is located had CBP agents on site. Friday, several shops were closed and the ones that were open had little foot traffic. 

    Rebolloso shared surveillance video of when CBP was present. It shows a man storming into the laundromat as a CBP agent appears to be chasing him. 

    “When this customer started yelling, everybody followed behind him. That’s my wife right there. She ordered the front door to be locked,” Rebolloso said.

    While DHS said the immigration enforcement operations around the country are an effort to remove the worst of the worst undocumented criminals from communities, Rebolloso doesn’t see it that way.

    “I think they’re just racial profiling, really. You know, they’re just the they’re just throwing a wide net, and picking up whoever and then asking questions later,” Rebolloso said. 

    He kept his business open this week but noticed the change.

    “It’s dropped. It’s dropped significantly. Right now it’s pretty much empty but then again, it’s Friday morning, but overall it’s dropped at least at least half, at least half of my clients and if not more,” Rebolloso said.

    He said the mixed messages about the CBP operation ending in Charlotte are likely political.

    “They don’t want to give notices, you know, they want to keep people guessing and they want to keep people on their tiptoes, you know?” Rebolloso said.

    He said these actions are ultimately hurting businesses in Charlotte.

    “There’s no movement of commerce, there’s no activity, you know, because like I said, people are afraid to come out, and they’re not going to come out,” Rebolloso said.

    He and many other business owners in the shopping center are not welcoming ICE or CBP to their businesses. Some even have posted signs stating ICE/CBP does not have consent to enter the building without a judicial warrant.

    He said if business continues to be slow, he’ll only be able to stay in business for another six months. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

    Estephany Escobar

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  • Florida farm brings unique Gypsy Vanner horses and their story to life

    OCALA, Fla. — Deep in the heart of Florida’s horse country, one farm is offering more than just beautiful pastures and photogenic horses — it’s giving guests a cultural and historical experience unlike any other.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gypsy Gold Horse Farm in Ocala is the first U.S. home of the rare Gypsy Vanner horse breed.
    • Visitors can take guided tours that provide education, history, and hands-on animal interaction.
    • The farm’s founder imported the first Gypsy Vanner after encountering the breed in Europe in 1995.


    Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is the first in the United States to introduce the rare and striking Gypsy Vanner horse breed to American soil.

    Known for their feathered hooves, flowing manes, and gentle temperament, these horses were originally bred by British and Irish travelers — often referred to as gypsies to pull their ornate caravans.

    “This amazing breed that Dennis has been preserving for over 30 years now. These are amazing, beautiful creatures, and a lot of people that come on these tours aren’t even familiar with the Gypsy Vanner breed,” said Eileen Mahoney, who works with the horses daily at the farm.

    Founded by Dennis Thompson and his wife, the farm is home to more than 30 Gypsy Vanner horses, each with a unique story and heritage.

    Thompson gives weekly tours where he not only introduces visitors to the horses but also shares the journey that brought them here.

    “My late wife and I, in 1995, saw one horse and learned it belonged to a gypsy,” Thompson told a tour group.

    “Spent that day in a gypsy camp and basically became obsessed.”

    The farm has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence four times and remains one of the top-rated attractions in Central Florida. (Spectrum News)

    That encounter sparked a decades-long mission to preserve the breed and honor the culture behind it.

    For Thompson, it’s not just about the horses — it’s about correcting long-held misconceptions about the Romani people.

    “They don’t read and write — that is by choice because they don’t want to lose their culture,” he explained. “So, they have been treated with prejudice for a thousand years.”

    During the tour, visitors meet horses like “Little Big Man,” whom Thompson describes as “a grandson of Kushti Bok,” one of the original horses he imported.

    Guests can also interact with mules and exotic birds, like colorful macaws, all while walking the picturesque grounds.

    Visitors from all over the country have made the trip — some with a deep love for horses, others simply curious.

    “Yes, I’ve grown up with horses. I used to be a jumper — and then I got old,” joked Bonnie Mickley, a visitor from Georgia.

    “It’s so wonderful that people like Dennis are saving this animal,” added fellow visitor Chris Connolly.

    Thompson’s passion is simple.

    “When people come to Gypsy Gold, I hope they get a better understanding of the culture and a better understanding of the horses that they envisioned.” said Thompson

    The farm has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence four times and remains one of the top-rated attractions in Central Florida.

    For more, visit the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm.

    Randy Rauch

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  • Citrus u-pick and market to open in Bartow

    BARTOW, Fla. — One farm in Bartow is working to keep the citrus industry alive, and they want to involve their community in that process too.

    Golden Ridge Groves is opening a first-of-its-kind citrus U-pick, but it’s all being done under protective screening, a method that’s helping combat greening.

    What You Need To Know

    • The market will include all things citrus and offer a sunflower and strawberry u-pick as well
    • The farm owners hope this citrus u-pick will serve as education for those who visit


    When people hear the word U-pick, some may think of strawberries and blueberries, but that’s not the case for this farm. Here, it’s all about the Ray Ruby Grapefruit.

    “It’s known for its beautiful red flesh, sweet taste, and low acidity,” Shane Bevilacqua said.

    He and Katie Bevilacqua are the owners of Golden Ridge Groves.

    They’re using a unique method to protect the fruit — protective screening structures. It was first implemented by Katie’s dad and uncle.

    “The entire reason we do that is so that we can keep out a bug that carry’s a disease that has really impacted the citrus industry here in Florida,” Shane said.

    While citrus production has fallen 28% in the state according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Polk County still leads the state in citrus production.

    Katie said she believes that new innovations like the screening structures are helping. She’s hoping to bring that education to consumers in the form of a u-pick.

    “We get to talk about the innovative stuff we’re trying,” she said. “We’ll get to talk about what works, what didn’t work.”

    The farm will have five acres dedicated to the U-pick.

    Katie said it’s a way to preserve a fruit that’s in danger and bring more people to the farm.

    “Inspire people to get excited about what’s happening in the industry, get excited about Florida citrus and learn a little bit along the way,” she said.

    And that’s not all — Golden Ridge Groves market will open its doors for all things citrus, from juice to jams to citrus lotion.

    “We wanted to bring local produce to the consumer here in Polk County and make it more accessible,” she said.

    They’re creating a space for people to immerse themselves in the process of not only preserving but growing the citrus industry.

    The market will also offer a sunflower U-pick and a strawberry U-pick.

    This Saturday, they’re hosting a great grapefruit extravaganza from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to celebrate the Golden Ridge Groves U-Pick and Market grand opening. 

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Looking to give this Thanksgiving? Consider these food banks and organizations

    According to data collected from the Ohio Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, as of January 2025, one in nine Ohio residents rely on SNAP benefits

    Cody Thompson

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  • Over 80 Ohio sites highlighted for America 250 celebration

    OHIO — Next summer, America will celebrate a milestone birthday.

    To help celebrate its 250th, more than 80 popular sites across the Buckeye State are being highlighted for contributions to innovation.

    America’s ‘Semiquincentennial’ is on July 4th, 2026, and states around the nation are showcasing what makes them unique..

    What You Need To Know

    • America celebrates its 250th milestone birthday on July 4, 2026.

    • States aross the nation are showcasing what makes them special and unique.

    • America 250 Ohio has launched a series of Trails and Tales to highlight the Buckeye State’s contributions.

    • The latest launch is the Ohio Innovation Trail, which features more than 80 popular sites.

    “Of course, we didn’t wait until 2026 to throw a party in Ohio. We have so many stories to tell, how Ohio has revolutionized the nation,” said Ohio Travel Association Executive Director Melina Huntley.

    “Ohio, I believe, is head and shoulders above other states in what we’re doing. One of the things that we’re doing is telling our story through Trails and Tales, the stories of Ohio contributions to our nation’s history over the last 250 years,” said Destination Toledo President and CEO Lance Woodworth.

    The unveiling of the ’Ohio Innovation Trail’ at Carillon Historical Park in Dayton was something volunteer Chuck Johnson said he needed to see.

    “I was going home after my talk but then I called my wife and said I can’t miss this,” he said.

    The 91-year-old Daytonian is a bit of a history buff and was even taking videos and pictures during the unveiling.  

    “Worked for Charles F. Kettering for two years when he was alive. I worked there for four years after he died in 1958,” he said.

    On the Innovation Trail, the sites include big ones like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Cincinnati Museum Center, the Ohio History Center, and also many others including the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting and even smaller ones.

    “Like the Music Makers museum or the early television museum in Hilliard, or there are museums that are tucked away in places that you didn’t even know were open such as the Dittrick medical museum up in Cleveland,” said Huntley.

    “You can drive to them, you can ride a bike to them, however you want to get to them you’re going to be welcomed there, and it’s just a lot of fun,” Woodworth said. 

    As for Johnson, he might not get to all the sites, but he’ll be at Carillon and in Dayton discussing the community he knows and loves.  

    “This particular area is important. Dayton is doubly important with all of the manufacturing that went on here. And that’s why it’s important,” he said.

    This is the fourth statewide trail project by America 250 Ohio, and six are planned.

    A couple of other trails that have already been launched include the ‘Air and Space Trail’ and the ‘Ohio Creativity Trail’.

    The official kickoff for Ohio will occur the first week of January at the Ohio Statehouse.  

    For more information, click here.

    Alese Underwood

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  • Volunteers staying vigilant amid operation uncertainity

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg parents and volunteers said they’re staying vigilant, amid conflicting reports about border-enforcement operations coming to an end.  

    Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden said federal officials told him the operation, dubbed “Charlotte’s Web,” was over.

    But in a statement, the Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said, “The operation is not over and it is not ending anytime soon.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Neighbors are hearing conflicting reports about whether a federal operation in Charlotte is coming to an end 

    • Some residents say they will remain vigilant until they know for sure the operation is ending 

    • A group of volunteers, consisting of parents and community members, will continue patrolling efforts to ensure kids and families are safe 


    Since Saturday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents have been operating in Charlotte, a DHS effort that has led to over 300 arrests statewide.

    Border-enforcement activities in Charlotte are prompting some parents and neighbors to organize informal patrols outside Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools.

    Parent Sarah Ekis has a son enrolled in a CMS elementary school.

    In response to the border operations, Ekis, parents and community members started patrolling near the school, keeping a watchful eye.

    “We started the beginning of the week when we knew Border Patrol had arrived,” Ekis said. “We’ve got a patrol out here in the mornings, one in the afternoons. That’s the way I can help right now with being an ally.”

    Ekis said the effort is about classmates whose families may be directly affected by the immigration enforcement.

    “It’s less about [my son], more about his classmates and families impacted by it,” Ekis said. “It’s heavy, it’s a lot.”

    Ekis says the operation’s impacts are showing up in her son’s kindergarten classroom.

    “He’s mentioned his friends are all sick and not in school,” Ekis said. “He’s been pretty quiet about it, he doesn’t seem to know much of what’s going on. We’ve shielded him as much as we can, it’s scary.”

    CMS officials say absences have climbed since federal agents arrived in the city.

    The district reported over 30,000 students absent Monday, the first school day after Border Patrol began its operation in Charlotte. CMS said there were around 25,000 absent on Tuesday.

    Parents and volunteers said they’ve noticed the same trends CMS has reported.

    “The car rider line has been shorter in the morning. The pickup line [has] been shorter. The kids walking have been fewer,” Ekis said. “People are staying home because they’re scared.”

    District leaders have stressed there has been no immigration enforcement on CMS property, but acknowledged the anxiety some families are feeling.

    Ekis said word spread among parents that federal agents had possibly been seen near her son’s school, spiking concerns about school safety.

    “My heart just kind of sank, like what’s going to happen,” Ekis said. “The great part about this community is we rallied together. We showed up with our whistles, ready to be on watch. It’s turned into a way for the neighbors to connect.”

    Beth Clements is a neighbor and part of the patrol efforts and has been on watch since Monday morning.

    Clements said she’s dedicated to helping those who are almost like family during these uncertain times.

    “A wise man told me ‘who protects your neighborhoods? You protect your neighborhoods.’ This is my neighborhood, these are my kids. My granddaughter plays with kids that go to this school,” Clements said.

    “I’m armed with a whistle. I have spent every day this week standing guard because with my white skin I have a privilege they do not have. I’ll use my privilege this way,” Clements said.

    Uncertainty remains about how long the operation will last.

    For Ekis and the other volunteers, that uncertainty is reason enough to keep showing up.

    “I think we’ll keep doing it as long as there’s a need,” Ekis said. “As long as Border Patrol’s in town I think we’re going to keep doing it. I think part of the concern is reports saying they’re leaving, are they really leaving? We’re not letting our guard up until we’re sure.”

    “This is a community I’ve lived in for a long time. I love Charlotte. Immigrants are a big part of this community, and I just don’t understand why what’s happening is happening,” Ekis said.

    Ekis is encouraging families impacted by the operation to know there are people out there who want to help.

    “Contact your school’s PTAs, [some] are rallying around and trying to find support for families, doing anything they can to help,” Ekis said.

    “There are allies out there. We can do things like pick up groceries, prescriptions. We can help bring your kids to school. We’re happy to do those things,” Ekis said.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

    Jennifer Roberts

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  • Viva Polk magazine makes transition to being bilingual

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Viva Polk magazine is giving readers the opportunity to learn English through its pages. This year, the magazine made the transition to become a bilingual magazine, while still preserving Spanish stories.

    What You Need To Know

    • Both languages are offered in the same article side by side
    • The magazine also underlines words that are similar in both English and Spanish so that readers can learn


    Teresa Martinez is an educator at heart. That passion to teach is evident within the pages of her magazine, Viva Polk.

    As the editor-in-chief and publisher, she says the magazine is a source of education for many.

    “An informed community is an educated community; it is a better community,“ she said.

    The first edition was printed in 2019. She says the magazine shares the stories of Hispanics in Polk County.

    Originally, it was tailored to the Spanish speaking community. 

    They recently made a change, though. The free magazine now offers readers two versions of the same article — they appear side by side.

    Martinez says it’s a way to immerse more readers in a new language — either English or Spanish.

    And it takes a lot of time to get it done. “We start working on the next issue as soon as one comes out because we put a lot of love into it and a lot of thought.”

    She says it can’t be done without a team. Michelle Peña Shoe is the graphic designer for the magazine. She says the switch has been positively received by the community. “When we publish in two languages, we are addressing and uniting the community,” she said.

    Martinez believes her magazine is helping preserve her native language, while introducing others to a new one. “This is my legacy to Polk County,” she said.

    Bridging language barriers, so that more people are inspired to learn.

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Sanding Ovations returns to Treasure Island after last year’s cancellation

    TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — Sanding Ovations returns for its 17th year after 2024’s hurricane season canceled the popular sand sculpting festival.

    Sculptors make their own molds, and by compacting sand and water, they make their own building blocks — or “sandstone.”

    “It’s pretty basic,” said Meredith Corson-Doubleday, festival co-founder. “It’s construction work.”

    Corson-Doubleday knows many in her barrier island community who remain displaced.

    “But they are all here. I’ve seen so many of them that are staying in condos, staying in hotels just so they can be here for this weekend,” she said. “They’re not gonna miss it because their house isn’t ready. They’re not gonna miss it.”

    This year’s theme – a museum vibe, where one could walk through a gallery of sculptures and contemplate the art.

    Enter The Dali Museum, as an event partner.

    “The sculptors are going to go to the museum Thursday night. They are so excited to go,” said Corson-Doubleday.

    Dali also inspired the centerpiece — where each of the dozen sculptors depicts Dali’s artistic idea blooming from his head.

    “You’ll see some melted clocks, long-legged elephants, pyramids,” said Corson-Doubleday.

    And as Sanding Ovations returns, Corson–Doubleday hopes visitors see a reflection of a rebuilding and recovering community in their work.

    “It’s art. It’s art — just a different form,” said Corson-Doubleday.

    Look for a beer garden, Saturday night fireworks, touring bands and kite flying showcases.

    And dozens and dozens of vendors, from boutique beachwear to mini donuts.

    Virginia Johnson

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  • Send us your Holiday Lights displays

    OHIO — The holiday season is nearly here, and Spectrum News 1 is looking for holiday lights captured on camera around the Buckeye State.

    Whether its lights in sync with music, reindeer prancing on the lawn or a giant Santa Clause, you can help. 

    We may use these photos to show during our newscast and on our website/app to help illustrate what Ohio looks like statewide as neighborhoods begin to don their holiday glow. 

    View our Holiday Lights map by clicking here. 

    Here’s what to do:

    • Take your picture in the horizontal perspective (not vertical).
    • Please take your photos when you’re in a safe environment. Do not put yourself in harm’s way for a photo.
    • Please don’t take pictures while driving. (It’s okay if a passenger takes the picture.) Any pictures taken while driving, we don’t show on the air.
    • If using the form below is not an option, you can post your photos on our Facebook page: Spectrum News 1 Ohio
    • Tag us on Twitter: @SpectrumNews1OH

    Submit your photos below:

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Funeral to be held Monday for WakeMed officer killed in line of duty

    Funeral services for WakeMed Officer Roger Smith will be held Monday, Nov. 17, officials announced on Friday.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Officer Roger Smith was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, Nov. 8

    •  Smith was shot during a struggle, officials said, at WakeMed Garner Healthplex

    •  The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said

    • A memorial service will take place Monday, Nov. 17, at noon in Raleigh, N.C., followed by interment in Clayton, N.C.


    The service will start at noon at Providence Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

    Smith’s casket will be taken by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol’s Caisson Unit, starting at 10:45 a.m., down Glenwood Avenue from Mitchell Funeral Home to Providence Church.

    Following the service, Smith will be buried at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Clayton, N.C., officials said.

    A visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 16, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park, according to Smith’s obituary.

    Smith, 59, served as an officer with WakeMed Campus Police for 14 years.

    He was shot and killed on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 8, while on duty. Officials say the shooting happened during a struggle at the WakeMed Garner HealthPlex.

    The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said.

    Authorities have not released many details as to what led up to the shooting. The Garner Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are investigating.

    “He will be remembered for his compassion, his dedication to others, his kind smile, his friendship and his heroism,” WakeMed Health and Hospitals said in a statement earlier this week. “Officer Smith lost his life while protecting the lives of others – and we will forever remember and honor his memory.”

    A spokeswoman for WakeMed Health and Hospitals said there will be a memorial in Smith’s honor soon.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

    Justin Pryor

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