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  • Cleveland Air Show hosts the Blue Angels

    Cleveland Air Show hosts the Blue Angels

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    CLEVELAND — Most people know about the pilots who fly the Blue Angels, but they wouldn’t be able to do their jobs without the team of people who work on the ground.

    One of them is Grant Causey, who is on the Blue Angels’ Life Support team.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Cleveland National Air Show is Labor Day weekend at Burke-Lakefront Airport 

    • The Blue Angels will be doing their flight demonstration, and there’s a lot of moving parts to make it happen

    • There are the pilots, but also many team members doing work behind the scenes to make sure the planes do what they need to do and keep the pilots safe

    “I maintain and repair the systems that support the life of the pilot during normal and emergency situations,” he said.

    He is the first responder if anything were to happen to the aircraft and even has the control over the ejection seat.

    “They trust me to make sure they get out of the jet safely if anything is to happen. So that’s very important to me and obviously to the pilots and their families as well,” he said.

    Lt. Commander Natalia Luchetti has been in the Navy for 23 years and now works for the Blue Angels as an assistant maintenance officer.

    “I never thought I would be this far in my career in the Navy,” she said.

    Luchietti communicates with the jets throughout their flight demonstration. She’s excited to be a part of the Cleveland National Air Show.

    “So being able to be here and then just showcase what my brothers and sisters in arms do on a daily basis is just a huge honor,” she said.

    Causey explained how special the air show is for him, especially since he’s from Ohio.

    “It gives me goosebumps. We’re in the birthplace of aviation as everyone knows and being able to showcase to Cleveland what the Navy does,” he said.

    Causey said his favorite part of the air show is seeing kids reactions to the Blue Angels.

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    Katie Priefer

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  • View a time machine up close at the DeLorean Motor Company in Orlando

    View a time machine up close at the DeLorean Motor Company in Orlando

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Very few cars portrayed in films have had a bigger impact that the DeLorean. 

    The DeLorean made its public debut in 1981, with close to 9,000 of the futuristic cars produced.

    What You Need To Know

    • General Manager of DMC Florida Robert Gadocha said the car captured the public’s attention from the start, but the movie franchise took it to another level

    • The Orlando facility is one of three locations in the country that still deals, sells and maintains the one-of-a-kind vehicles

    • The company has over 40 classic DeLoreans on hand, all of which are in pristine condition

    • The tour is free, and you can call 407-203-2300 to reserve a time

    General Manager of DMC Florida Robert Gadocha said the car captured the public’s attention from the start, but the movie franchise took it to another level.

    “Well, the love for it stems from the ‘Back to the Future’ trilogy. Everyone that sees the car loves the car,” said Gadocha.

    The Orlando facility is one of three locations in the country that still deals, sells and maintains the one-of-a-kind vehicles.

    The company has more than 40 classic DeLoreans on hand, all of which are in pristine condition.

    “We get people in the shop that bring their children, 5 to 10 years old, dressed like Marty. They love the car and everything about it,” said Gadocha.

    Guests can request a tour of the shop to see — depending on the day — how the famous stainless-steel exterior is polished, engines being worked on, and visit a showroom that includes a completed time machine, like the one featured in the Back to the Future movies.

    “Yes, we welcome guests here. We give them a quick tour and show them what we do inside and out,” said DMC owner Tony Lerardi.

    They also provide historical videos so guests can learn about the car’s unique history, beyond the films, including the car’s famous inventor John DeLorean.

    James O’Brien visited DMC one day and decided to purchase a DeLorean and convert it into a time machine.

    “When I was 6, and I first saw the film, for me, that was the car. So, I ended up building a time machine from scratch,” said O’Brien.

    He said he had no idea when he started building the time machine, but he watched videos, consulted with DMC and sought advice from the DeLorean Club of Florida, an organization that has more than 200 DeLorean loving owners around the state.

    DeLorean Club members meet several times a year with usually a stop in Orlando.

    The British-born time machine owner said the biggest problem he has when driving the vehicle around Central Florida is people forcing him off the road to stop and take pictures.

    “There’s about 5,000 DeLoreans left in the world. So, when people see them, they love the car. They love the movie franchise, and people want to take videos and pictures,” O’Brien said.

    He now plans to rent out his classic time machine equipped with every working gadget, including a flux capacitor for time travel.

    Reservations are required to tour the DeLorean Motor Company in Orlando. The tour is free, and you can call 1-407-203-2300 to reserve a time.

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    Randy Rauch

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  • Looking for a bargain? Get your PJs ready for St. Pete’s Sunrise Sale

    Looking for a bargain? Get your PJs ready for St. Pete’s Sunrise Sale

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    ST. PETERSBURG Fla. — There’s an event in downtown St. Pete that doesn’t even call for you to get dressed — it’s true.

    Thursday, if you show up to the 51st annual St. Pete Sunrise Sale in pajamas, patrons can get something from a small prize to extra money off sale items.

    On the list of more than 40 participating merchants is St. Pete’s Florida Craft Art, where CEO Jorge Vidal is hoping to expose their latest exhibit, “Heroes,” to a wider audience.

    “I am a townie. I was raised here. I remember the Sunrise Sale from its very beginning. It’s really a St. Petersburg tradition at this point,” said Vidal.

    Vidal says people walk in for bargains and get drawn into the art.

    In “Heroes,” that’s quite literal, the exhibit offers visitors a chance to sketch their own heroes for display.

    “So some of them are really quite impressive,” said Vidal.

    In addition to the exhibit space and artist retail space, the nonprofit arts organization offers a dozen artists sidewalk space – so bargains start before you walk in the door.

    “They are able to take part in the Sunrise Sale even though they might not necessarily be a retail outlet on their own,” said Vidal.

    It all starts on Thursday, July 18, at exactly 6:43 a.m.

    There are businesses along Beach Boulevard, Fourth Street and on Central Avenue, waiting to give some crack of dawn discounts.

    A map of participating businesses can be found below. You can also find more information on the Sunrise Sale by clicking here.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • ‘Magical place’: Highland Games kicking off in North Carolina’s High Country

    ‘Magical place’: Highland Games kicking off in North Carolina’s High Country

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    The Highland Games kick off Thursday night at Grandfather Mountain and people from all over the world are coming to participate. 

    Beverly Baker has been coming to the Highland Games in Avery County for 18 years. She and her husband sleep in a cargo trailer turned camper.

    “He put in windows, [a] ceiling fan,” Baker said.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Highland Games kick off Thursday on Grandfather Mountain

    • The games will continue in Avery County all weekend

    • Organizers expect up to 30,000 people to head up the mountain for the games


    They have everything they need, including friends that have become family. The campground even has its own street names made up by campers that are now on the map.

    “It’s a celebration of our heritage. I don’t know, there are celtic festivals everywhere but there is something special about here,” Baker said.

    The games feature vendors along with bagpipes and athletics, including the iconic caber toss, where competitors try to flip a log on the field.

    “We are at the base of Grandfather Mountain and it’s a very magical place,” Baker said.

    Operations Manager Levin Sudderth said he expects between 25,000 and 30,000 people will attend the games between Thursday and Sunday.

    He’s been doing this his entire life. He took his first steps there at 9 months old.

    People come in from all over the world for the annual event on Grandfather Mountain. 

    “We had people from Canada. We had people from the West Coast that drive out here from Utah, California,” Sudderth said.

    The Highland Games will continue through Sunday. Organizers ask people attending the games to remember they must park at one of the designated lots and be shuttled in.

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    Rose Eiklor

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  • Fireworks and festivities: 4th of July celebrations across Tampa Bay

    Fireworks and festivities: 4th of July celebrations across Tampa Bay

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Pyrotechnics are planned to dance across the night sky as the 4th of July approaches on Thursday. July 4, or Independence Day, commemorates the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. It has been a federal holiday since 1941, but celebrations have gone back to the 18th century.

    Tampa Bay has a list of festivities to get residents and visitors into the patriotic spirit. View the events that are happening in your community.

    All events take place on July 4 unless otherwise stated.
     

    Citrus County

    • Patriotic Evening
      July 3, 3 p.m. | Liberty Park
      The city of Inverness will be hosting its annual fireworks show over Lake Henderson. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs during the viewing. There will be live music, vendors and plenty of family-friendly activities.
    • 4th of July Celebration
      5 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

     

    Manatee County

     

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    • The Fourth
      4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | 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.
    • Clearwater Celebrates America 2024
      5 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Coachman Park
      There will be a free, patriotic performance at The BayCare Sound. No tickets are needed and seating is first-come, first served. Guests can also enjoy local vendors, food trucks, family friendly activities and live music.
    • Fireworks Over the Gulf
      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. Bring a beach chair or towel and enjoy the show.
    • 4th of July Parade & Celebration
      9 a.m. | Old Time Pottery
      Join Kenneth City Mayor Megan Zemaitis and Healing Pinellas for a day of food, live music, vendors and more. The parade starts at 66th Street North and 46th Avenue North, then through downtown to Ernst Park, located at 46th Avenue North and 58th Street North.
    • 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, paddle boarding, inflatables, lawn games and free hot dogs. Stay later for the firework show after sunset.

    Polk County

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Columbus officials provide free movies during heat wave

    Columbus officials provide free movies during heat wave

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus City Council and Gateway Film Center will provide two days of free movie showings to help residents escape the heat. 

    “Extreme weather events are becoming more common; from this week’s potentially record-breaking heat to the tornados and severe storms we have been experiencing,” said Councilmember Christopher Wyche in a press release. “That’s why council is working with city departments and community partners to support our residents through multiple channels during this heat wave.”

    The movies will be shown Wednesday and Thursday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Film Center.

    Movie-goers will be able to choose from the following films:

    • Tuesday (2024)
    • The Bad Guys (2022)
    • Jurassic Park (1993) 4K Restoration
    • Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)
    • Matilda (1996)
    • The Fall Guy (2024)
    • Shrek (2001)
    • The Grab (2024) – Wednesday Only
    • Resistance: They Fought Back (2024) – Wednesday Only

     

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Juneteenth celebrations across Tampa Bay for 2024

    Juneteenth celebrations across Tampa Bay for 2024

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after 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.
     

    Hernando County

    Third Annual Juneteenth Hair & Fashion Gala
    June 15, 6-9 p.m. | WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center
    This event offers an opportunity to celebrate culture, style and serves as a platform for small businesses to showcase their products and services.

     

    Hillsborough County

    Fourth Annual Juneteenth Festival
    June 15, 3-9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
    Get ready to enjoy live DJ’s, a slingshot car show, artistic dance performances, musical guests, a kids’ zone, plus a variety of retail vendors, community resource booths, and food vendors.

    Juneteenth Cultural Celebration 2024
    June 15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
    Get ready for a community celebration of the holiday with art-making activities, live music and performances, family portraits and local vendors.

    Juneteenth Celebration 2024
    June 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | USF Sam & Martha Gibbons Alumni Center
    The USF Black Alumni Society will be hosting a celebration of culture and community for the whole family. Members of the community and businesses attending include WUSF, Walton Academy for Performing Arts, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and the Institute on Black Life.

    Father’s Day and Juneteenth Celebration
    June 16, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. | Beulah Baptist Institutional Church A. Leon Lowry Center
    Enjoy a day filled with live entertainment, food trucks, and youth activities including Double Dutch, a gaming truck, and small businesses showcasing what the community offers.

    Arts Legacy REMIX: Fourth Annual Juneteenth Commemoration
    June 17, 7:30-9 p.m. | Straz Center’s Jaeb Theater
    This commemoration will be comprised of spoken remembrances, writings of historical importance and an original performance of music, poetry and dance created especially for this event.

     

    Manatee County

    Manatee Juneteenth Community Celebration
    June 19 – 22, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. | 13TH Avenue Dream Center
    Guests can enjoy a variety of guest speakers and a meet-and-greet with local authors.

     

    Pasco County

    4th Annual East Pasco Juneteenth Community Celebration
    June 22, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Lewis Abraham Boys & Girls Club of Lacoochee
    This event features vendors, guest speakers, a kids’ zone, and a variety of performances. There will also be live music, food and health screening offers.

     

    Pinellas County

    Juneteenth Literacy Festival
    June 13-16, 22 | Various Locations
    From learning strategies that leads to reading success for children to enjoying live music and food, experience multiple days of culture and fun. Spectrum Bay News 9 reporter Saundra Weathers will be in attendance. Visit the link to learn more.

    4-Day Clearwater Juneteenth Celebration
    June 13 – 16 | Various Locations
    The Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition and the city of Clearwater are hosting a four-day series of Juneteenth events, from arts and performances to educational experiences. Click the links for more information and the locations.

    Shades of Pride Festival: A LGBTQIA+ Juneteenth Celebration
    June 14 – 15 | The Factory St. Pete
    This two-day art and music festival showcases the Black and Brown experience of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Tampa Bay region through culture, music and panel discussions.

    Freedom Fest
    June 15, 4-8 p.m. | Tropicana Field Lot 1
    Bring your lawn chairs and good vibes as there will be live music, raffles, giveaways and more.

    Juneteenth Day Celebration
    June 15, 1-6 p.m. | Pinellas County African American History Museum
    This event features games, vendors, arts and crafts and a bounce house for kids. There will also be live presentations.

    City of Dunedin Juneteenth Celebration
    June 15, 5-8 p.m. | John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park
    Enjoy a day of recognition, restoration, and celebration. Experience live music and performances, craft and food vendors.

    Gulfport’s 4th Annual Celebrate Juneteenth
    June 15, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Gulfport Casino Ballroom
    In collaboration with The Woodson African American Museum, guests can enjoy a variety of presentations and discussions. There will also be interactive storytelling for kids.

     

    Polk County

    Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
    June 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Jackson Park
    Get ready for a day filled with live music performances, art and cultural exhibitions, food vendors and community dance showcases.

    2024 Juneteenth Celebration
    June 15, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Lake Maude Recreation Park
    The city of Winter Haven is highlighting a day of live entertainment, food and games, local artists and cultural education.

    New Outlook Events, Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom Polk City
    June 22, 1-5 p.m. | Donald Brunson Community Center
    The celebration includes live entertainment, dancing, vendors, education, and fun for all.

    Juneteenth Freedom Festival
    June 29, 1-6 p.m. | Simpson Park Community Center
    Dance to the rhythm of live music, enjoy food, and explore cultural exhibits that showcase the history and heritage of the African American community.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Juneteenth celebrations kick off at Tampa Museum of Art

    Juneteenth celebrations kick off at Tampa Museum of Art

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    TAMPA, Fla. —  The Tampa Museum of Art has commissioned Ya La’ford for an original work as the 2024 Juneteenth artist, hosting her in conversation ahead of the June 15th celebration. “I’m really a conduit for all the people that paved the way for me,” she said.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Tampa Museum of Art is set to begin the Juneteenth Cultural Celebration

    • It will take place Saturday, June 15

    • Doors will be open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and entry is free

    It’s part of the museum’s initiative to reflect the art of the community they serve.

    “There are so many incredible artists from underrepresented backgrounds to voices who have been silenced or ignored over history,” said Joanna Robotham, Curator at the TMA. “And it’s time that we are able to highlight and showcase some artists who perhaps might not have had the same attention maybe a couple of decades ago.”

    La’ford’s work will join that of 2023’s Juneteenth artist Jake Troyli in the permanent collection, along with two Florida Highwaymen paintings, all on current exhibition.

    Their current exhibition, on display through 2025, is from artist Purvis Young- a Black Floridian from Miami. All of this art is a vision of the Sunshine State.

    “They are highlighting what’s in front of them, their community,” said Robatham. “Their home site is their greatest source of inspiration.”

    In a little more than a decade, La’ford has left her mark on the Tampa Bay area. Her work highlights intersecting lines, as we are all connected. La’ford thanked those who gave her the courage to pursue this dream.

    “I’m so grateful to my husband, who believed in me. I’d be practicing law and living this very duplicitous life. He never gets credit, and he needs it all and a little more,” she said.

    She also thanked those that came before.

    “I think I feel so honored and so filled with gratitude because they’re so many shoulders that I had to stand on,” said La’ford. “So I think it would be this ancestral whisper from people that did so much so I could be right here right now.”

    Look for La’ford’s original work for the museum to be unveiled later this year.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Weekly Asian food market gets monthly Mega upgrade

    Weekly Asian food market gets monthly Mega upgrade

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The Mega Asian Street Food Market is where you should be if you like Asian food.

    What You Need To Know

    • The monthly Mega Night Street Food Market is Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1 from 5 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

    • The market will be located at 855 28th Street South in St. Petersburg

    • There is $5 parking

    June Tepwong of Chada Thai sells Thai Food at what is normally just a Friday night market.

    “I love to cook,’ said Tepwong.

    This weekend, the street market goes “Mega Market” for the third time this year with more than 75 vendors like the Lao Tokyo food truck.

    “Our specialty is Crying Tiger—it’s a grilled beef brisket and our most popular item here,” said Anzeal Vilaihong.

    For Vilaihong, the Mega Markets are also a chance to connect with the greater Tampa Bay Asian community.

    “It’s very cool,” said Villaihong. “We just go out and go say hi to them, give each other food, trade food, see what’s going on with everyone.”

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Taste of Cincinnati brings bold flavors and family fun

    Taste of Cincinnati brings bold flavors and family fun

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    CINCINNATI — Calling all foodies! From main courses to sweet treats, if you’re looking to sample some of the best dishes in southwest Ohio, then Taste of Cincinnati is the place to be.

    One of the best parts about the three-day festival is the amazing food and it gives business owners a chance to reach a totally different customer base.

    What You Need To Know

    • Taste of Cincinnati runs three days over Memorial Day weekend

    • The festival celebrates 45 years as a staple in Cincinnati and more than half a million people are expected to attend

    • It’s a chance to let people try different foods and for restaurants to reach new customers

    We spent some time behind the scenes and inside the kitchen at The Establishment.

    This will be their first time at Taste.

    Keeping a close eye on the day-to-day ins and outs is General Manager David Walters, and driving the menu is Chef Red.

    The kitchen took off during the pandemic and Chef Red has helped navigate the restaurant through it all.

    Kitchen sales have doubled since last year, and new additions like brunch have made a huge difference.

    “Constantly innovating, changing our menu. He’s changed our menu every season, updates, takes things off, adds new additions,” Walters said.

    At Taste of Cincinnati, The Establishment will share signature dishes. They’ll be serving up Nashville chicken sliders, cheeseburger sliders and Amish chicken quesadillas with a chipotle pepper glaze.

    “We’re super excited. It’s been a lot of effort on our end scheduling people, figuring out our costs, how to work this event. It’s a monster event. This is one of the biggest things Cincinnati puts on annually,” said Walters.

    More than half a million people are expected to stop by and see all that the Cincinnati food scene has to offer.

    “We were a little nervous going into it, but we know that we aren’t in over our heads and we’re going to kill it all weekend,” Walters added.

    “It’s celebrating its 45th year this year in 2024. We have over 80 vendors cooking for us this weekend, we have 30 food trucks, over 30 restaurants and 20 vendors from the Findlay Market,” said Chelsea York, the Cincinnati Chamber’s vice president of Events and Experiences.

    As always, you can expect a family fun weekend with tons of food and live music.  

    “We recommend bringing a picnic blanket this year. We do have the Lytle Park picnic zones. So Lytle Park is a newly renovated park right down the street from the footprint so you’re welcome to take your food and drink over there. There are plenty of places to spread out with a blanket and enjoy,” York said.

    For Walters and the team, Taste of Cincinnati is a chance to share their passions and the food that makes their spots so unique.  

    “That’s massive. That’s tons and tons of people that have never heard of us before and we’ll get that exposure and hopefully retain some business from it. Taste the quality, remember the quality, and just come back and see us because of it,” he said.

    Taste of Cincinnati spans four blocks of Fifth Street downtown.

    It runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 pm and Monday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

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    Alese Underwood

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  • A day of remembrance: events around Tampa Bay for Memorial Day Weekend

    A day of remembrance: events around Tampa Bay for Memorial Day Weekend

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Memorial Day is Monday, May 27, and is used as a time to reflect and honor those who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces. Tampa Bay as a lineup of events paying tribute those who have sacrificed their lives in defending the nation. View our list to see what’s happening in your community.

    Citrus County

    Memorial Day Veterans’ Remembrance Ceremony
    May 25, 9 a.m. | Crystal Memorial Gardens Cemetery
    The cemetery will be sharing headstones of military veterans interred in Crystal Memorial Gardens and will honor them during a ceremony. 

    Memorial Day 2024: Picnic at the Post
    May 27, 9:30 a.m. | American Legion Post 166
    Join the American Legion Post 166 for a remembrance service at Magnolia Cemetery, then enjoy a the rest of the day at a picnic. 

     

    Hernando County

    Sunflowers Memorial Day Weekend Fun
    May 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Sweetfields Farm
    Sweetfields Farm invites residents to visit for the last time this season. Enjoy adventuring through a sunflower maze, visiting with animals and all farm activities.

    Memorial Day Extravaganza
    May 26, 11 a.m. | Weeki Wachee Eagles
    Celebrate Memorial Day with fun for the whole family. 

     

    Hillsborough County

    Hillsborough County’s 27th Annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony
    May 26, 10 a.m. | Veterans Memorial Park & Museum
    This event will feature traditional military elements and guest remarks related to the true meaning of Memorial Day.

    Memorial Day Ceremony 2024
    May 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. |  American Legion, “U.S.S. Tampa” Post 5
    The American Legion has been honoring the fallen with a Memorial Day Service. The event provides a venue for all ages to give thanks for our military’s sacrifices. Feel free to bring a flag Monday and show support by flag waving along Kennedy Boulevard.

    CRISP Memorial Day Ceremony
    May 27, 11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | MacDill Park on the Riverwalk
    Join CRISP @ MacDill Park and the City of Tampa in remembrance of those who have given their lives in service to our country. 

    Memorial Day Family Picnic
    May 27 | Veterans of Foreign Wars
    This event includes a ceremonial flag raising and raffle drawing. 

    Memorial Day Weekend Military Offer
    May 24 – 27 | Florida Aquarium
    Military personnel will receive a complimentary general admission ticket to the Florida Aquarium. This offer must be redeemed in-person at the ticket window at the aquarium.

     

    Manatee County

    Tribute to Heroes Block Party and Parade
    May 26, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Lakewood Main Street
    The block party begins at 5 p.m. and the parade will begin at 6:30 p.m.

    Love It Like a Local Memorial Day Clean-Up
    May 27, 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Coquina Beach
    Celebrate Memorial Day by giving back to the beaches, The first 100 volunteers will receive a free commemorative rash guard.

     

    Pasco County

    Memorial Day Hockey Tournament
    May 24-27 | AdventHealth Center Ice
    This annual event features five divisions of youth hockey players.

    Memorial Day Celebration at Epperson Lagoon
    May 27, 2 p.m. | Epperson Lagoon
    Enjoy a day at the lagoon and rock out with live bands.

     

    Pinellas County

    Clearwater Honor Fest and Memorial Day Parade
    May 25, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Coachman Park
    The day will start with a parade along Cleveland Street in downtown Clearwater at 10 a.m, followed by a memorial ceremony at 12 p.m. A music festival will also be held to close the night out.

    Memorial Day Ceremony at Bay Pines National Cemetery
    May 27, 10 a.m. | Bay Pines VA
    Bay Pines VA will be hosting a commemoration ceremony with guest speakers.

    Memorial Day Ceremony at Largo Central Park
    May 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. |  Largo Central Park
    The ceremony will include a color guard presentation, music, a wreath presentation in remembrance of fallen soldiers, and keynote presentations from local Largo veterans.

    Memorial Day Special
    May 27, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
    There will be free admission to the museum for veterans, active military, Gold Star and Blue Star Families.

     

    Polk County

    Lakeland Funeral Home Memorial Day Tribute
    May 27, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Lakeland Funeral Home
    Join Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens in partnership with the Polk County Veterans Council as they pay tribute those who serve or have served our country. Guests are encouraged to bring a photo of their loved ones if they are members of the military.

    Memorial Day Ceremony
    May 27, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. | Railroad Park
    Haines City will be paying tribute to veterans and active military members.

    Memorial Day Family Connections Picnic
    May 27, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Christina Park Pavilion
    Enjoy a potluck lunch featuring activities for the whole family. Be sure to bring a chair.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • ‘May the Fourth be with you:’ Events around Tampa Bay for Star Wars Day

    ‘May the Fourth be with you:’ Events around Tampa Bay for Star Wars Day

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    TAMPA, Fla. — May 4th is known as Star Wars Day to many fans of the widely-popular franchise. “May the Fourth Be With You” is a play on words of the iconic phrase, “May the Force with you,” used throughout almost all of the continuities.

    To celebrate the unofficial holiday, Tampa Bay has some events lined up on May 4.  

    Star Wars Day Celebration
    1 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
    Fans can watch showings of three Star Wars movies: “A New Hope,” “The Empire Strikes Back,” and “Return of the Jedi.”

    Star Wars Golf Cart Parade
    7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Paradise Lakes Resort
    Attendees can dress up as their favorite Star Wars character, or make their cart look like a droid.

    May the Fourth Be With You: Casual Bike Ride
    6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Trek Bicycle Tampa South
    Wear your favorite Star Wars gear and join in on casual bike ride from the Trek Bikes Tampa South shop to Davis Island and back. Refreshments will be provided mid-ride. Helmet and lights are required.

    May the 4th Themed Public Skate
    6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | AdventHealth Center Ice
    This event features ice skating, photo opportunties with some beloved Star Wars characters and more.

    May the Fourth Be With You Party
    6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Practically Pikasso
    Create your own Star Wars-inspired art with an array of ceramics. There will also be giveaways and snacks.

    May the Fourth Be With You Water Plant Tour
    10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Reverse-Osmosis Water Treatment Plant #2
    The event celebrates not only Star Wars Day, but also Drinking Water Week. Meet and interact with members of the Florida Garrison 501st Legion and learn all about the vital role water treatment plays in our daily lives. Jedi Masters from the Clearwater Public Library System will be on hand to assist young padawans with making light sabers that they can take home.

    May the Fourth Be With You at Regency Park
    10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Regency Park Library
    This all-day celebration includes crafts, trivia, movies, Legos, and more. Guests can suit up in their best costume for a chance to win a prize.

    Star Wars Day
    2 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Polk Theatre
    View showings of the classic Star Wars trilogy and join in on additional themed activities.

     

    “Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace” will be shown on movie screens in most theaters this weekend to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary. View your local theater’s website for movie times.

    Fans can also visit the official Star Wars website for more ways on participating in May the Fourth festivities.

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    DeJanae Phillips

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  • Why do Star Wars fans celebrate May 4th?

    Why do Star Wars fans celebrate May 4th?

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Seeing lots of people say “May the 4th be with you”? Wondering who this Grogu guy is?

    From a lifelong Star Wars fan, the answers you seek are right here, young Padawans.

    What You Need To Know

    • May 4th has become the day that Star Wars fans around the world have come to recognize as Star Wars Day

    • It’s, of course, a play on the classic Star Wars phrase, “May the Force be with you”

    • The first Star Wars film was released on May 25, 1977

    May 4th has become the day that Star Wars fans around the world have come to recognize as Star Wars Day.

    It’s, of course, a play on the classic Star Wars phrase, “May the Force be with you.”

    “The Force” in Star Wars is what gives the Jedi their powers.

    “It’s an energy field created by all living things,” as Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi explained to Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars film, “A New Hope.” 

    That’s also the first time we heard, “May the Force be with you,” when the original Star Wars film was released on May 25, 1977.

    Despite that being the actual anniversary of Star Wars, the play on words with May 4th has made this the day to celebrate.

    According to the official Star Wars website, it was first referenced on May 4th, 1979, when a newspaper in the UK used the headline, “May the 4th Be With You, Maggie!” for the new prime minister, Margaret Thatcher.

    But #MayThe4thBeWithYou has really taken off in recent years, thanks to fans sharing their love of Star Wars on social media. And there’s more Star Wars content than ever before, since Disney bought Lucasfilm in 2012. (Disney could fill the Death Star with everything they are producing.)

    In fact, Disney now uses May 4 to release promotional materials or new content for its streaming service, Disney+. This year, the company is releasing Star Wars: Tales of the Empire, a series of animated episodes of stories from the ‘Dark Side.’

    How to celebrate Star Wars Day, you ask? Master Yoda might ask it that way. Perhaps a movie marathon, making a Star Wars recipe, dressing up, or getting into a heated debate about what order to watch the movies in. (My recommendation: Release order is best!)

    In addition, Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace is back in theaters this weekend to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary.

    At Disney World, you can visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios for a full day of Star Wars experiences. New this year, Disney World’s Star Tours ride now includes characters and locations from Disney+ series “Ahsoka,” “Andor” and “The Mandalorian.”

    As far as treats go, the official Disney Parks Blog released a May the 4th Foodie Guide where fans can enjoy delicious foods and beverages at the parks, including a Princess of Alderaan Shake complete with mini cinnamon buns in the shape of Princess Leia’s iconic hairstyle. You can also learn to make a “Bad Batch…of Cookies” with a recipe posted on the official Star Wars website.

    It’s a big galaxy after all, so that decision is yours on how to celebrate.

    May the 4th be with you.

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    Tim Wronka

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  • Celebrate Mexican cuisine at the 3rd Annual Tacos Fest in Manatee County

    Celebrate Mexican cuisine at the 3rd Annual Tacos Fest in Manatee County

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — It’s a dish so beloved it’s got its own day of the week — we’re talking tacos!

    What You Need To Know

    • 3rd Annual Manatee Taco Fest on Saturday, May 4, from noon to 7 p.m.

    • The event is at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto 

    • Los 3 Carnales food truck is a return vendor

    Now, people are coming together to celebrate tacos not just on Tuesdays, but on a Saturday too!

    The 3rd Annual Manatee Taco Fest is happening on Saturday, May 4, from noon until 7 p.m.

    Edith Gopar of Los 3 Carnales food truck is a returning vendor.

    Gopar opened her food truck in Bradenton right before last year’s taco fest.

    It was a success — so she’s bringing a second truck with fruit offerings.

    Gopar said she loves to cook her family’s food in the United States and came from Mexico almost 30 years ago.

    “People like Mexican food. And like tacos and everything you know? So that’s why I like it,” she said.

    The festival started as a way to bring vendors and patrons together during the pandemic.

    Now, it’s become an annual event, with more than 4,000 patrons in attendance, organizer Millie Abreu said.

    “I love the fact that I am helping the vendors and the community, right?” she asked, saying the festival is an opportunity to grow community.

    Gopar is ready to squeeze the most out of the festival, with a full menu of Mexican food favorites.

    “Tacos, sopes, gordida, quesadillas,” Gopar said as she squeezed lemons for fresh lemonade.

    Gopar said she’s grateful the people of Manatee County enjoy the dishes of her homeland and she can share this part of her culture.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Tombolo Books celebrates National Independent Bookstore Day

    Tombolo Books celebrates National Independent Bookstore Day

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Words on a page are small but mighty. And in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, they are being celebrated at Tombolo Books.

    What You Need To Know

    • National Independent Bookstore Day is Saturday, April 27

    • Tombolo Books in St. Pete’s Grand Central District celebrates with giveaways, readings, food and drinks

    • Tombolo Books opened in December 2019

    Alsace Walentine is looking ahead to National Independent Bookstore Day. It’s a chance to celebrate with more than a thousand indie bookstores across the country.

    Events will be spilling out in the bookseller’s courtyard, from music to readings.

    “There’s lots of fun for little kids through adults. There’s exclusive items we give away. We are all just really proud to be in this industry,” said Walentine.

    Walentine and her wife Candace Anderson opened Tombolo Books in December 2019, just months before the pandemic.

    “I’m just really glad we were able to stick it out, and the community supported us,” said Walentine.

    It’s allowed Walentine to continue the work she calls both gratifying and important.

    “For the community, for the authors, for writing, for ideas, for intellectual freedom,” said Walentine. “So I’m very proud of it.”

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Famous spider monkeys of Historic Monkey Island make grand return home

    Famous spider monkeys of Historic Monkey Island make grand return home

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    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A few big tourist attractions have made their grand return to Citrus County. The monkeys of Historic Monkey Island are finally home after recent renovations.

    What You Need To Know

    • The famous spider monkeys of Historic Monkey Island have returned to their island

    • Renovations were being made to the monkey’s home, including air conditioning, heating and perimeter polls to prevent unauthorized guests from getting too close

    • Those with Historic Monkey Island will be holding a special fundraiser Thursday night, with funds helping maintain the island and the monkeys

    Hundreds — if not thousands — of visitors gather to catch a glimpse of the little celebrities on the island along the Homosassa River each year. It’s an attraction that is helping the local economy.

    “They’ve settled in nicely and they seem to be enjoying it, almost like they never left,” says Blake Lowman, caretaker at the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort.

    Historic Monkey Island is probably known by no one better than Blake Lowman, who works not only at the resort but is also the island’s caretaker.

    “The community just absolutely loves and adores this island. It’s a piece of history here,” he said. “People have grown up with it. It was here before I was born, and it’s just cool to be a part of that legacy and keep it going forward for future generations.”

    The island’s long-term guests — known as Ralph, Emily and Ebony — were moved so that renovations could be made to their home.

    “Basically, the whole island got redone,” said Lowman. “The biggest thing is these perimeter polls here to keep unauthorized, unwanted boaters and kayakers out from getting too close.”

    And just like most Floridians, they now have air conditioning. A requirement, Lowman says, by the USDA and FWC.

    “The A/C has to come on if it’s above 85 degrees for a consecutive of four hours and vice versa on the heat,” said Lowman. “If the temperature drops below 45 for a consecutive of four hours, the heat has to be turned on and that is a requirement.”

    It took some time to finish, but an improvement that was mandatory for the island’s longevity.

    “Tourism, now, is a huge draw basically because of the location,” Lowman says. “Having the springs, having the river, easy access to the gulf is really a fishing destination and starting to pick up on the tourism side of it.”

    Ensuring future generations can enjoy the island, too.

    Those with Historic Monkey Island will be holding a special fundraiser Thursday night. Funds will help maintain the island and the monkeys — including food and upkeep.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Tampa native performs in ‘Stranger Sings!’ musical at Straz Center

    Tampa native performs in ‘Stranger Sings!’ musical at Straz Center

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A musical that’s playing right now in Tampa is a spin-off from one of the most binge-worthy shows of the last decade, and it features a Bay area girl with some powerful chords.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Caroline Huerta, born and raised in Tampa, is performing in the musical, “Stranger Sings!” at the Straz Center

    •  The musical is a parody of the Netflix show, “Stranger Things,” a spooky thriller set in the 80s

    • “Stranger Sings!” plays at the Straz Center through April 21 

    “I love Tampa,” said Caroline Huerta. “Tampa is amazing. I was born and raised off Westshore, went to school at Berkeley Prep. I’m a lifer.” 

    Huerta spent much of her youth in Tampa going to see shows on the stage of the Straz Center. And now in her adult life, she’s performing on that very same stage. 

    You can hear her voice in “Stranger Sings!” — a musical playing at the Straz with its roots on Netflix.

    It’s the musical parody of the Netflix show, “Stranger Things,” a spooky thriller set in the 80s where a group of kids battle villains from the eerie “Upside Down.”

    “It’s a lot of fun, a spooky comedy,” Huerta said. “It’s not so much scary as it is in the Netflix series, so we turn it on its head and make it a lot of fun.”

    And can you imagine how much fun Huerta is having living out her performer dreams in the city that raised her?

    “Ever since I was little, I think it was something I always wanted to do in my heart,” she said.

    “Stranger Sings!” plays at the Straz Center through April 21. Tickets start at $37. And Huerta said one piece of feedback they’ve been getting: you don’t have to be a fan of the Netflix show to enjoy the musical. 

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    Jeff Butera

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  • Glass Animals tour coming to Ohio

    Glass Animals tour coming to Ohio

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    OHIO — Known for their hits like “Heat Waves” and “The Other Side of Paradise,” Glass Animals announced a tour on Thursday with two stops slated in Ohio. 

    “Tour of Earth” will be coming to Blossom in Cuyahoga Falls on Aug. 21, and also to Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on Aug. 25. 

    Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on April 11 both on glassanimals.com and livenation.com. Presale starts April 9.

    Additional, the group announced its fourth studio album, “I Love You So F****** Much,” which comes out July 19. 

    For a full list of tour dates, click here.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Hopping into Easter fun this weekend around Tampa Bay

    Hopping into Easter fun this weekend around Tampa Bay

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    By

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa

    UPDATED 12:33 PM ET Mar. 28, 2024
    PUBLISHED 4:39 PM ET Mar. 27, 2024
    PUBLISHED 4:39 PM EDT Mar. 27, 2024

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • ZooTampa opens Stingray Shores exhibit for guest experiences

    ZooTampa opens Stingray Shores exhibit for guest experiences

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    TAMPA, Fla. — ZooTampa is opening its stingray exhibit, Stingray Shores, for guest experiences.

    What You Need To Know

    • ZooTampa Animal Encounters now include a stingray experience

    • Southern and cownose stingrays populate the exhibit

    • Handlers trim barbs, and rays are raised hand-fed 

    • Stingray Shores offers daily interaction opportunities

    It’s another way the zoo is trying to connect people with the wild, taking a step into the 76-degree water habitat.

    That’s right — in it.

    ZooTampa’s Kayla Cary is one of the zoo professionals leading the way in this hour-long experience.

    It starts with educational components and preparations for meeting rays in the habitat.

    “So, while you are in the waters, they may come all around you and even straight up to you,” Cary said. “It’s completely OK. They are very curious animals. It’s OK, and we are entering their space.”

    Cary’s been working in their space for two years.

    “A lot people have misconceptions about stingrays,” she explained.

    And at ZooTampa, she said, it’s even safer than the wild. Zoo staffers trim each ray’s barb.

    Rays have their own dispositions. They are food-motivated. And their mouths feel like little vacuum cleaners.

    Because rays sometimes burrow in the sand on Tampa Bay’s beaches, Cary shows the stingray shuffle, shuffling her feet to move forward through the sand.

    “By doing this movement, this will alert the stingray we are coming near them and allow them to move,” Cary said. “They can sense vibrations in the sand.”

    Moving people from fear to understanding of the wild kingdom is part of ZooTampa’s mission.

    The goal is to change perceptions and help protect the future of the animals and their environment.

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    Virginia Johnson

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