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  • NFL moves its Pro Bowl festivities to Super Bowl week

    NEW YORK — The NFL is moving its Pro Bowl festivities to Super Bowl week beginning this February, the latest adjustment for the all-star event that became a flag football game a few years ago.

    What You Need To Know

    • The NFL is moving its Pro Bowl festivities to Super Bowl week beginning this February

    • Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the change Wednesday at the league’s annual fall owners meeting

    • The plan is to hold the Pro Bowl Games on Tuesday night, Feb. 3, in the Bay Area

    • The NFL is hoping to take advantage of increased interest in flag football ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles

    Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the change Wednesday at the league’s annual fall owners meeting.

    “We’ve spent a lot of time evolving our Pro Bowl, talking about how to make our Pro Bowl more attractive, both for our players participating but also our fans,” Goodell said. “We spent a great deal of time talking about the objectives, and the objectives really are to celebrate and honor our incredible players, and second is to use our game as a global platform.”

    The plan is to hold the Pro Bowl Games on Tuesday night, Feb. 3, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, the venue that is hosting the Super Bowl experience fan fest. The largest ballroom holds 4,000 people, making it a more intimate event than in previous years, with a focus on television.

    It remains a flag football game between the AFC and NFC, though executive VP of international events Peter O’Reilly did acknowledge the format could become more internationally focused in the leadup to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

    “Flag has become a global game,” Goodell said. “Our players have embraced playing that in the all-star format, and we think it’s really important to continue that initiative.”

    NFL owners unanimously approved players participating in the ’28 Games, though work is still being done to finalize the agreement with the union.

    The 49ers are hosting the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 8, in Santa Clara, California.

    There will be two new coaches, replacing Peyton and Eli Manning, though O’Reilly said the brothers would remain involved in the event in some capacity. The league is not committing to Tuesday night beyond 2026, according to O’Reilly, who said it’s a process of continuing to learn about what’s best for the Pro Bowl.

    Associated Press

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  • Beyond the Pink: High school senior raising breast cancer research awareness

    OHIO — For many, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to wear pink and raise money toward breast cancer research.

    But for others, it provides a chance to take it a step further.

    What You Need To Know

    • Addison Frazier’s mom died from metastatic breast cancer when she was 6-years-old

    • Frazier is a scholar athlete, cheering football, basketball and competition and interns at  Pink Ribbon Good

    • Frazier said she’s raised $8,000 toward research to end the deadly disease

    Addison Frazier’s mom died from metastatic breast cancer when she was just 6-years-old.

    “She had fought since she found out she was pregnant with me, so breast cancer awareness not only means raising awareness for the people but also raising awareness for the families who are also in the fight,” said Frazier, a senior at Olentangy High School.

    Frazier is a cheerleader who is working to raise awareness and money for breast cancer research. 

    “When I was little, I was just kind of thrown into therapies, and there wasn’t really a support group for the children affected. So that’s what I’m trying to create. It will be called ‘Linked by Hope,’” Frazier said.

    (Photo Courtesy Addison Frazier)

    Frazier is a scholar athlete, cheering football, basketball and competition. On top of that, every week she drives to Dayton to intern at an organization that’s closer to her heart, Pink Ribbon Good.

    “It’s a wonderful nonprofit organization that provides services for people going through breast and gynecological cancer,” Frazier said.

    Rachel Parrill, director of grants and foundations at Pink Ribbon Good, said Frazier brings something special to the group.

    “To have Addi, who has lived through this unfortunately, really wanting now to help others in that same situation means so much. The perspective she brings is invaluable,” said Parrill.

    All month long, players, fans and officials wear pink to show their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But Frazier wants people to know there’s more that needs to be done than just wearing the color. 

    “Something that’s often missed with pink games, is sometimes people just wear pink and nothing else is done with it, but something special we’re doing here at Olentangy is we are working with a breast and gynecological cancer organization, to raise money and to continue to support the fight, not just by wearing pink, we’re actually doing something for the cause,” Frazier said.

    Frazier said she’s raised $8,000 toward research to end the deadly disease, hoping that little by little, she can help others so they won’t have to grow up without a mom like she did. 

    “Something that I’ve done that’s a little bit different is I don’t just email, I go into the place and I actually talk with the people and continue to show them my story, so they get more of an idea of why I need to raise this money,” Frazier said.

    Cassidy Wilson

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  • City of Tampa taking applications for parking community garden

    TAMPA, Fla. — There are a lot of benefits that come with city living — proximity to bars and restaurants, shorter commute times, walking or biking to the grocery store instead of driving.

    What You Need To Know

    • Community garden in downtown Tampa will feature over 40 raised planters

    • All gardening equipment at the parking community garden will be free, courtesy of the city

    • The city encourages residents to plant flowers that attract pollinators in an effort to boost pollination

    • The garden is located on the east side of Whiting Garage; Here are more details, including how to apply


    It also means limited access to green space. And for urban dwellers with a green thumb, balconies just don’t cut it. But now, the City of Tampa’s Parking and Micromobility Division is offering a unique opportunity for residents to grow with the city at its new community garden.

    “Open land in downtown is hard to find, and we were fortunate to have this little parcel, a part of one of our garages, and so we jumped on it,” said Austin Britt.

    With a background in environmental science, Britt, the city’s parking and micromobility planner, saw an opportunity for growth — both literally and figuratively speaking.

    “We want to be more environmentally friendly, globally sustainable,” he said. “I think this is just one step into that direction to inspire people to garden for themselves. Especially with the high cost of produce now, if you can grow a tomato or a pepper at your house, why not, right?” he said.

    Or rather down the block in one of 41 raised beds where Britt says many things can be grown, like a variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs.

    “So, as we’ve been building this over the last year and a half, community members, everyone walking past is always asking when is this going to be opening, when is this going to be opening, when is this going to be opening,” he said.

    From now through Nov. 5, the city will begin accepting applications for Tampa city residents. Because of the limited number of beds available, a lottery system is being used. The drawing will take place in late November and early December, with planting expected to begin in February.

    “As part of the community garden, we’re going to be offering courses in composting, cooking with your food that you’ve grown,” Britt said. “So, there’s an education component as well,” he said.

    The Parking Community Garden, located on the east side of Whiting Garage downtown, will be a place to weed out stress, nourish the roots of creativity, all while planting food for the soul. Here are more details, including how to apply.

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  • Breast cancer survivor shares story; Wellness Expo to spread awareness

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the local Manatee County community is spreading awareness with its annual Wellness Expo.

    What You Need To Know

    • October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the local Manatee County community is spreading awareness with its annual Wellness Expo

    • Dr. Jose Erbella will also be introducing his new book at the expo called “The High Risk: 10 Things to Know to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer”

    • The free Wellness Expo will be this week in Bradenton on Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 2015 32nd Ave. W., Bradenton

    • There will also be free mammography screenings starting at 9 a.m.

    At 89, Geraldine Schneider holds memories close to her heart.

    “Everything. And my memory is going so bad. But I remember back,” she said.

    Especially memories of a time when her family helped her get through breast cancer.

    “My heart,” she said.

    Schneider first realized something was wrong in 2001, when she was 65.

    “When I got the call from my doctor, it was before Thanksgiving, and I was like, ‘I can’t believe it,’” she said.

    At the time, her late husband Ralph was dealing with his own pancreatic cancer treatment.

    “I was focused more on his life than I was on my cancer, which I think was God’s way of getting me through my problem,” she said.

    But family battles with cancer persisted. Two of her daughters are breast cancer survivors as well.

    “Scary for me,” she said.

    Now, Schneider worries about her cancer coming back. She is hoping to get some feedback by attending the Wellness Expo in Bradenton.

    “I want to ask one of the doctors about it. I do have a little condition with the left breast that I’m curious about, cause if I get another cancer, I won’t not do anything. At 89, I’m totally ready for whatever happens,” she said.

    Health care providers will be available at the event to answer questions.

    Dr. Jose Erbella with Manatee Physician Alliance said events like this are a way to educate people about cancer.

    “The big message is that cancer is really preventable. You know, it’s directly linked to lifestyle, directly linked to our eating habits, our exercise habits and our social habits,” he said.

    As for Schneider, she said it’s a way to stay informed.

    “People asking questions and being told the correct answers, not something that’s incorrect, will help them,” she said.

    Schneider and her family have supported each other through their cancer, and she hopes the expo will provide others with support as well.

    Erbella will also be introducing his new book at the expo called “The High Risk: 10 Things to Know to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer.”

    The free Wellness Expo will be this week in Bradenton on Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 2015 32nd Ave. W., Bradenton.

    There will also be free mammography screenings starting at 9 a.m.

    Julia Hazel

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  • Authorities searching for missing Bradenton teen

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida law enforcement is looking for a missing Bradenton teen.

    There is a missing child alert for a 17-year-old girl, Giselle Diaz Maldonado.

    She is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, 240 pounds, black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a purple shirt and black and white ripped jeans.

    Officials say she went missing on Oct. 16. But it was upgraded to a missing child alert last night.

    She was last seen around the 1800 block of Martin Luther King Avenue East in Bradenton, but authorities say she could be in the Oakland Park area now of Broward County.

    She could be traveling with a man in a two-door black Honda.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of this child is asked to please contact the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9377 or 911.


    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Palladium Theater awarded $2.5M from Pinellas bed tax fund

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Palladium Theater was recently awarded $2.5 million from Pinellas County’s tourist development tax fund, when the capital project request was unanimously approved by commissioners, allowing the St. Petersburg venue to move forward with major renovations.

    “That was the last money we needed to really start this project,” said Paul Wilborn, Palladium Theater executive director. “So it’s very exciting.” 

    What You Need To Know

    • Palladium Theater awarded $2.5M from Pinellas bed tax fund on Oct. 7

    • The capital project request was unanimously approved by Pinellas commissioners 

    • The Palladium has raised $10.8 million to begin renovations next year  

    • All 815 seats will be replaced, sightlines will improve and a new acoustic ceiling will be installed


    Wilborn said money granted from Pinellas County on Oct. 7, combined with grants from the State of Florida, the city of St. Petersburg and private donations, total $10.8 million for the renovation project, which is expected to begin in late summer next year.

    “We’ve raised over $7 million, almost $8 million, in private donations. So we’ve got more still to come,” he said. “I think it just shows that we’ve stayed with our mission of being this community-focused venue that really works with local people in our community. And that’s paid off for us.”

    The renovations include completely replacing all 815 seats, which will have a new configuration to improve sightlines, re-raking the balcony and removing the plaster ceiling for better acoustics.

    “We’re dropping in an acoustic ceiling,” said Wilborn. “There’s 12 feet of attic above the current ceiling, and that’s going to let sound rise up in there and have some curtains that we’re able to drop when we’re doing amplified music.”

    Due to rising costs, Wilborn said they had to remove a few items from the renovation list, which include an orchestra shell and raising the performance stage. He hopes to raise more money in the future to complete those projects.

    “We still think there’s going to be things we want to do additionally,” said Wilborn. “So we’ve got more still to come.”

    The Palladium was built in 1925 as a Christian Science church and is on the Register of Historic Places. Since 2007, the theater has been owned and operated by St. Petersburg College.

    Wilborn said he expects the renovations to begin next August and the Palladium will go dark for about one year until the work is complete.

    “We very likely will close the whole theater for eight to 12 months,” he said. “We might do some satellite projects. We’re still debating that.”

    Josh Rojas

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  • Madeira Beach buys waterfront property for $18M

    MADEIRA BEACH, Fla. — Madeira Beach has agreed to purchase 4.6 acres of vacant waterfront property located at the city’s entrance off the Tom Stuart Causeway for $18 million and will close the sale on Wednesday. 

    “It’s a really good deal,” said Mayor Anne-Marie Brooks. “We purchased the land for a considerable amount of money less than what it appraised at.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Madeira Beach has agreed to purchase 4.6 acres of waterfront property for $18 million

    • The land located at 555 150th Ave. was appraised for $21 million and $27.5 million

    • The mayor wants community input on how to develop the land 

    • Commissioners unanimously approved the sale at their Oct. 1 meeting


    The land located at 555 150th Ave. was appraised for $21 million and $27.5 million, far above the agreed upon sale price of $18 million. The city maintains a cash reserve of more than $37 million and will use that money to purchase the land, according to Finance Director Andrew Laflin.

    “What I would recommend is that we… go through a reimbursement resolution, at the next regular meeting. Which would be in November,” he said. “That would preserve the city’s ability to engage in a tax exempt finance.”  

    Laflin said a tax exempt finance would give the city the ability to pay itself back in the future for the purchase price with a lower debt service cost and interest rate. Brooks said expanding the city’s marina and adding boat slips could also help offset the cost.

    “So there is a possibility of extending the marina to be a cost making, revenue generating establishment which would be great for the city long term,” she said. “The possibilities are endless.”

    Other ideas floated for the vacant land include a public works facility and a waterfront park. Brooks said the city will use input from residents to decide how to develop the property.

    “We don’t know what we’re going to do with it yet because we have a community that needs to be a part of that decision,” she said. “The idea when we purchased the property was that we would use it for recreational green space in some fashion, but we’ll wait and see what the community wants.”

    Madeira Beach city commissioners unanimously approved buying the land at their Oct. 1 meeting. Commissioner Eddie McGeehen called it “a great investment for the city.” Vice Mayor Ray Kerr said, “This piece of property is an opportunity that will only come by us once.”

    Commissioner David Tagliarini said it was a chance for the city to control the appearance of its main entrance.

    “I like the idea that we’re in control of what people see first when they come over the Tom Stuart Causeway for a change,” he said. “We get to decide what it looks like and I think that’s very positive.”

    Brooks said several years ago developers wanted to build a hotel, condos and townhomes on the property. She said the city buying the land was a decision that just made sense.

    “This may not be the time that many people thought we should do it because we’re coming off the heels of two hurricanes,” she said. “But sometimes you don’t get to choose the time to make the purchase. You have to make the purchase when it’s afforded to you.”

    Brooks called it a strategic investment she hopes residents and visitors will enjoy for generations to come. The city will hold public workshops over the coming months to develop a plan for the waterfront property.

    Josh Rojas

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  • What you need to know about keeping your pets safe on Halloween

    NATIONWIDE — There’s no need to spook your pets this Halloweekend.

    “Halloween can be the spookiest night of the year, but keeping your pets safe doesn’t have to be tricky,” the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said.

    ASPCA released these safety tips ahead of the holiday:

    Hide the candy

    Pet owners need to keep candy and other Halloween treats away from their pets. A lot of Halloween goodies, such as anything with chocolate, are toxic to pets. Remind your little ones not to share their candy haul with their four-legged siblings.

    “Chocolate in all forms — especially dark or baking chocolate — can be very dangerous for cats and dogs, and sugar-free candies containing the sugar substitute xylitol can cause serious problems in pets,” ASPCA said.

    If your furry friend accidentally gets into the candy bowl or eats something toxic, call your vet immediately.

    Kitty- and puppy-proof your decor

    Keep an eye on those pretty pumpkins. While pumpkins and corn are not likely to be fatal toxins to your pet, they can cause upset stomachs. Plus, pets could knock over lit jack-o’-lanterns and start a fire.

    “Curious kittens are especially at risk of getting burned or singed by candle flame,” ASPCA said.

    If there are cords, sockets, inflatables, lights or other yard decor, pet owners will need to make sure their furry friends aren’t nibbling on any wires, too.

    Costume considerations

    No human would want to wear something uncomfortable all weekend, and the same goes for animals. Make sure any pet costumes are comfortable and safe. Pet costumes should not impair breathing, vision, hearing, ability to “speak” or mobility.

    “Check the costume carefully for small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that could present a choking hazard,” ASPCA said. “Ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.”

    Wisconsin Humane Society suggested having pets wear something simple first, such as a bandana, so they get used to dressing up over time. Then, add more elements as they work their way up to their full Halloween attire. WHS said positive reinforcement, like treats and toys, can help make the experience more of a “treat” for your pet.

    ASPCA said pets should try their costumes on before Halloween, just like people. If the animal seems “distressed or shows abnormal behavior” it may be best to ditch the costume this year.

    (Amy Sussman/AP Images for PetSmart)

    Keep calm

    If your pet gets stressed around people in costumes, either inside your house or elsewhere, don’t force them to get in on the fun. WHS said a “safe, quiet space inside your home” to make them comfortable is a perfect place for them to hangout for Halloween.

    “All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours,” ASPCA said.

    ID, please

    Make sure your pet has a collar with their ID tags and is micro-chipped.

    ASPCA explained the constant stream of activity and strangers trick-or-treating brings to your home is scary and stressful for pets. When you open the door, make sure your pet doesn’t scamper outside.

    If your pet does manage to spook you and get outside, having them properly ID’d and easily identifiable can be a lifesaver. 

    Aly Prouty

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  • Government shutdown impacts Hillsborough non-profit

    TOWN ‘N’ COUNTRY, Fla. — People around the country who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are waiting to find out if they’ll get that money to buy groceries in November.

    The USDA Secretary has said the program will run out of money at the end of October due to the government shutdown. One Hillsborough County non-profit said its ability to process SNAP has already been impacted by the shutdown but for a different reason.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sweetwater Organic Community Farm says it’s been unable to process SNAP benefits for weeks and hasn’t been able to work through the issue with the USDA due to the government shutdown 

    •  The farm’s general manager said quite a few customers use SNAP benefits and that she’s also concerned that they could lose SNAP altogether if the shutdown continues into November

    •  The Florida Dept. of Children and Families administers SNAP benefits and says benefits will not be issued for November if federal funding is not restored

    • Read previous coverage here


    “This is our sign. It says, ‘EBT SNAP accepted,’ right here,” said Cindy Casterlin.

    Casterlin, general manager of Sweetwater Organic Community Farm, said it’s what quite a few customers use to pay for fruits, vegetables, and more.

    “That’s one of the draws of the farmer’s market. It’s local food, local farmers – at least, our farmer’s market, specifically, is definitely that,” Casterlin said. “And then, it’s fresh foods.”

    Casterlin said shoppers can double their nutritious haul through the Fresh Access Bucks program. Shesaid whatever they spend on their EBT card, they can get that same amount in produce, seeds, or plants for free. But that all stopped at Swetwater at the end of September.

    “It’s a timing thing, really,” Casterlin said.

    She said Sweetwater’s EBT readers weren’t allowing them to process cards. They found out their contract number with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) wasn’t being recognized as that of a valid merchant. Casterlin said they renewed last year and that contract hasn’t expired. According to her, the farm was working to contact the USDA to work through the issue when the shutdown began.

    “So, now all you get is, if you try to contact them, is that red message that blasts up that they’re shut down and you can’t do anything until they come back online,” she said.

    That means customers with SNAP benefits are out of luck, and Sweetwater and its farmer’s market vendors are out that revenue.

    “It’s not just an inconvenience,” Casterlin said. “We’re really concerned as this shutdown moves forward.”

    She said she’s concerned for the people who rely on those benefits.

    Anna Archambault, public relations manager for the Florida Dept. of Children and Families (DCF), which administers SNAP benefits, said benefits won’t be issued for November until federal funding is restored. 

    “The Department is monitoring the federal government shutdown closely and is committed to resuming benefits as quickly as possible once funding is restored,” Archambault said via e-mail.

    “In some cases, that’s all they have. It’s a lifeline,” said Asheena Moses, statewide outreach and advocacy manager for Florida Impact. 

    Moses said the statewide anti-hunger organization is getting questions from SNAP recipients and food banks but have been told by DCF that the department isn’t issuing guidance until they know for sure whether the shutdown will continue into November.

    “So, you’re running into a situation where families are losing SNAP money, food banks are losing funding to put more food in the bank,” said Moses. “We don’t even know where families will go for food.”

    Casterlin said many of Sweetwater’s neighbors are still recovering from last year’s hurricanes, and a possible loss of SNAP benefits will impact the community’s most vulnerable.

    “You’re going to have to pull that resource from somewhere else. Is it going to come out of your rent money? Your landlord’s not going to be happy. Is it going to come out of your utility bill? Because the rest of your bills don’t go away,” she said.

    Archambault said there’s not expected to be any impact to October benefits and DCF is still processing applications and renewals.

    She said SNAP recipients may get notices about their eligible benefit amount for November, but that money won’t be issued until funding is restored. She said those who’ve already submitted applications or renewals don’t have to reapply, and any existing benefits remain available to use.

     

    Sarah Blazonis

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  • SpaceX to launch Spanish communications satellite

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — SpaceX is organizing a Thursday night launch of a Spanish communications satellite.

    What You Need To Know

    • SpainSat NG II mission will  be launched from Space Launch Complex 40 
    • The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster B1076 for this mission will be retired

    SpaceX stated it is ready to send up its Falcon 9 rocket to launch the SpainSat NG II mission.

    The takeoff will take place at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

    The four-hour launch window opens at 9:30 p.m. ET.

    If the launch is scrubbed, the next attempt will be Friday at the same time.

    Final launch

    This will be the final launch of this Falcon 9’s first-stage booster B1076.

    “Due to the additional performance required to deliver this payload to orbit, this will be the 22nd and final flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission …,” SpaceX stated.

    That means it will not be landing on a droneship or landing zone.

    Old B1076 had an impressive career.

    1. CRS-26
    2. OneWeb Flight 16
    3. Intelsat IS-40e
    4. Starlink Group 6-1 mission
    5. Starlink Group 6-3 mission
    6. Starlink Group 6-6 mission
    7. Starlink Group 6-14 mission
    8. Starlink Group 6-21 mission
    9. SES O3B-mPOWER
    10. Ovzon-3
    11. Starlink Group 6-40 mission
    12. Eutelsat 36D
    13. Starlink 6-54
    14. Starlink Group 6-64 mission
    15. Turksat 6A
    16. Maxar 2 mission
    17. Starlink 8-19 mission
    18. Starlink 6-68 mission
    19. Sirius SXM-9 mission
    20. Starlink 12-7 mission
    21. Starlink 12-14 mission

    Interestingly enough, when SpaceX launched the SpainSat NG I mission earlier this year in January, the California-based company had to retire that first-stage booster, B1073, for the same reason.

    About the mission

    The SpainSat NG II is a satellite that was built and will be operated by Hisdesat.

    It will provide secure communications to the governments and emergency responders in Europe, North and South America and other parts of the world, according to the European Space Agency.

    The SpainSat NG II satellite will be in a geosynchronous transfer orbit.

    Anthony Leone

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  • David Fischer, 3-term St. Pete mayor, dies at 92

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — David Fischer, who served as St. Petersburg’s mayor from 1991 to 2001, died Wednesday, city officials confirmed.

    He was 92 years old.

    “Mayor Fischer was a dedicated public servant who left lasting impacts on the City of St. Petersburg,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “I join the rest of our community in celebrating his legacy and contributions that helped make our City what it is today – from the Rays’ first pitch in St. Pete to redefining the role as Mayor.”

    Fischer won three terms as mayor before term limits were put in place. He also served on St. Pete’s City Council.

    “He believed in listening, building relationships, and doing the quiet, steady work that moves a community forward. His work and leadership will forever be a staple in our City’s history and we are all better for it,” Welch said.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Roser Food Pantry, still struggling after hurricanes, in need of donations

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Roser Church Food Pantry has been struggling to bounce back following last year’s hurricanes.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Roser Church Food Pantry is experiencing one of its hardest years, still trying to bounce back after getting flooded during Hurricane Helene more than a year ago.

    • Over the past year, volunteers say they’ve seen a decrease in donations — but an increase in people needing their services.

    • If you want to donate to the food pantry, you can drop off items at Roser Church in Anna Maria, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address is 512 Pine Ave.


    The church says it’s the only food pantry on Anna Maria Island.

    Over the past year, volunteers say they’ve seen a decrease in donations — but an increase in people needing their services.

    Wanda Crummey prides herself on keeping everything inside the food pantry at Roser Church organized. It’s a labor that she loves.

    “Helping the neighborhood. Making sure that people have food when they need it,” she said.

    But the pantry is experiencing one of its hardest years, still trying to bounce back after getting flooded during Hurricane Helene more than a year ago.

    “It was devastating. But the reality was you spent an hour saying, ‘This looks like hell.,’” Crummey said. “And then it’s, ‘What are you going to do to fix it?’ I’m from New Orleans, and this is what you do. You pick it up, you move forward.”

    They did fix it up and were able to reopen by the end of October last year — but the problem was the loss of food.

    “It was a huge dumpster full, so it was probably going to be about, I’d say, 100 cases of food,” she said.

    And now, they aren’t seeing enough food donations, leaving shelves bare.

    “One, we’re handing out more. Number two, we don’t have as many tourists on the island right now,” she said.

    They attribute that loss of tourism to hurricane season last year. Since then, volunteers and church staff like Charles Wade have worked hard to rebuild what was lost.

    “We’re just asking for help. I always say this to people — whatever you give from your heart, we do appreciate it,” he said.

    And Crummey’s wish is for people to give if they can, to help others in need.

    “I hope we’re able to get some more food in so that we can serve more people on the island,” she said. “Because I believe that we’re going to have more people in need as the year goes on and the cost of living increases.”

    It’s a hope that Crummey and the rest of the volunteers and church staff are holding on to so they can continue feeding people on the island who need it.

    If you want to donate to the food pantry, you can drop off items at Roser Church in Anna Maria, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address is 512 Pine Ave.

    Julia Hazel

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  • SpaceX hits milestone with more than 10,000 Starlink satellites launched

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — One of the 28 Starlink satellites that were launched over the weekend has the distinction of being the 10,000th satellite sent up by SpaceX.

    While Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has more than 10,000 satellites in orbit, it does not mean they are all operational.

    What You Need To Know

    • SpaceX owns the Starlink company
    • Just because more than 10,000 have gone up, it does not mean they are all in working order 

    During the Sunday afternoon launch of Starlink 10-17 mission, SpaceX’s famed Falcon 9 rocket launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

    It sent up 28 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit.

    Currently, 10,044 Starlink satellites have been launched by SpaceX, according to Dr. Jonathan McDowell, of Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, who has been documenting these communication satellites.

    They are used for communications and internet services and even during space missions, like the civilian Polaris Dawn mission last year. 

    In its first official launch in 2019, 60 Starlink satellites were launched by SpaceX. (File photo)

    However, just because more than 10,000 have gone up, it does not mean they are all operational.

    Some are no longer in working order because of age, technical mishaps, or being directed to burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere.

    At the moment, McDowell has documented 8,676 satellites in orbit, but only 7,448 are in operational orbit, meaning they are in the right orbit they should be in.

    The first Starlink mission was a test launch of two satellites called Tintin A and Tintin B in 2018.

    The first official Starlink launch was in May 2019, which saw 60 Starlink satellites being sent to orbit.

    Anthony Leone

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  • SpaceX hits milestone with more than 10,000 Starlink satellites launched

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — One of the 28 Starlink satellites that were launched over the weekend has the distinction of being the 10,000th satellite sent up by SpaceX.

    While Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has more than 10,000 satellites in orbit, it does not mean they are all operational.

    What You Need To Know

    • SpaceX owns the Starlink company
    • Just because more than 10,000 have gone up, it does not mean they are all in working order 

    During the Sunday afternoon launch of Starlink 10-17 mission, SpaceX’s famed Falcon 9 rocket launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

    It sent up 28 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit.

    Currently, 10,044 Starlink satellites have been launched by SpaceX, according to Dr. Jonathan McDowell, of Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, who has been documenting these communication satellites.

    They are used for communications and internet services and even during space missions, like the civilian Polaris Dawn mission last year. 

    In its first official launch in 2019, 60 Starlink satellites were launched by SpaceX. (File photo)

    However, just because more than 10,000 have gone up, it does not mean they are all operational.

    Some are no longer in working order because of age, technical mishaps, or being directed to burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere.

    At the moment, McDowell has documented 8,676 satellites in orbit, but only 7,448 are in operational orbit, meaning they are in the right orbit they should be in.

    The first Starlink mission was a test launch of two satellites called Tintin A and Tintin B in 2018.

    The first official Starlink launch was in May 2019, which saw 60 Starlink satellites being sent to orbit.

    Anthony Leone

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  • Study shows nicotine pouches are becoming more popular among college students

    OHIO — An Ohio State University study has found that an increasing number of college students, especially fraternity members, are using nicotine pouches, such as Zyn.

    Users often place the pouch between their lip and gum.

    What You Need To Know

    • College students are using nicotine at an increasing rate, according to an Ohio State University study.

    • The pouches are used by putting them between your lip and gum

    • The study shows that fraternity members have used the product the most

    Leading author and Associate College of Public Health Professor Megan Roberts said little is known about the potential health issues that come with using the product. Nicotine pouches have shown to increase heart rate, increase blood pressure and cause multiple oral health issues, according to the study.

    “I don’t think any legitimate health coach is going to recommend using Zyn before going to the gym,” Roberts said.

    Of the 1,400 students who were surveyed, 15% of undergraduate students and 11% of graduate students said they had tried a nicotine pouch.

    Fraternity members were reported to have tried products like Zyn at a higher, 41% rate.

    “It seems to have been rapidly incorporated into fraternity life. Part of this is college culture, and part of this may be that some social media influencers have promoted pouch use as a stimulant to boost energy for workouts, including weightlifting,” Roberts continued.

    “Many students reported using the pouches while socializing at parties and while drinking — ‘I like the buzz’ was the most commonly cited reason for using them,” explained Roberts.

    The pouches come in mint and fruit flavors and are much more discrete than using other forms of consuming nicotine. The product is often used in places where smoking is not allowed, like classrooms.

    Ryan Johnston

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  • Kettering Health consolidating obstetric services

    BEAVERCREEK, Ohio — Kettering Health confirmed in a statement to Spectrum News 1 on Tuesday that obstetric services at their Soin Medical Center are transitioning to the Kettering Health Main Campus and Kettering Health Washington Township.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Kettering Health is consolidating obstetric services

    •  They are transitioning services from Soin Medical Center to their main campus and Washington Township locations

    • The Soin Medical center housed their smallest maternity unit

    “National and regional trends show a steady decline in birth rates,” the statement reads. “This consolidation aligns Kettering Health’s OB services with these demographic shifts by transitioning our resources from Soin Medical Center, our smallest maternity unit, to our larger units at Kettering Health Main Campus and Kettering Health Washington Township.”

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of live births per 1,000 women have declined in the last decade. The rate was 13.5 in 2009 and dropped to 11.4 in 2019.

    According to Google Maps, Kettering Health’s main campus is 11 to 15 miles away from the Soin Medical Center, depending on route taken. Kettering Health Washington Township is 17 to 22 miles away, depending on route taken.

    The health network said any patients who were scheduled to deliver at the Soin Medical Center would be hearing from their care teams soon “to facilitate a seamless transfer of care.”

    They also said it is their goal to keep all affected employees at Kettering Health.

    “Our commitment to supporting residents throughout Greene County remains unchanged,” the statement reads. “We continue to invest in the area through continued expansions at Soin Medical Center, upgrades to Kettering Health Greene Memorial, and prioritizing physician access through our new medical office at the Xenia REACH site.”

    Cody Thompson

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  • Pinellas County teacher fosters kindness in her classroom

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Jessica LoGrande, who has been a teacher in Pinellas County for 11 years, says she was in school herself when she decided she wanted to be a teacher.

    “I always kept notes of what I liked of teachers and what I didn’t like and tried to embody that in my teaching,” she said.

    LoGrande, who currently teaches second grade, has been at Woodlawn Elementary School for nine years, and said she enjoys building lasting connections with her students.

    “I spend a lot of time in the first few weeks of school really building the classroom community and trying to uplift everyone, and make sure that everyone is positive and kind,” she said.

    “We do a lot of lunches together, we have conversations outside of academic times about our lives,” she said. “I share about myself, they share about themselves. We really get to know each other on a deeper level and it kind of bonds us forever.”

    LoGrande said the motto in her classroom is: “Be kind to yourself, be kind to others.” She said she hopes her students will carry that with them when they leave her class.

    “I hope that they continue to be kind humans and to spread kindness throughout the world,” LoGrande said.

    Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here.

    Jorja Roman

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  • Police say man stole Tampa fire engine, crashed it into SUV

    TAMPA — Tampa police say a 59-year-old man stole a fire engine Tuesday morning and crashed it into another vehicle before being caught and taken into custody.

    It happened shortly before 9:30 a.m. while firefighters were inside St. Joseph’s Hospital on Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, according to officials.

    Police say Warren Scudder got into the fire truck, drove away and hit a Lexus SUV near MacDill Avenue.

    The driver of the SUV reported hip pain after the crash and was checked out by hospital staff, investigators said.

    Shortly before 9:40 p.m., police located the fire engine and blocked its path on Poplar Avenue.

    Scudder was charged with grand theft auto and hit and run. Additional charges may be filed, police said.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Trooper the dog’s new owner upset over dropped charges

    TAMPA, Fla. – Charges have been dropped against a Hillsborough County man who was accused of leaving a dog tied up as Hurricane Milton approached the area last year, leaving his new owner upset.

    What You Need To Know

    • Charges have been dropped against a Hillsborough County man who was accused of leaving a dog tied up as Hurricane Milton approached
    • Trooper’s new owner, Frank Spina, said he is “disgusted” to learn that the charges have been dropped
    • The charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence
    • “Trooper’s Law” makes it a third-degree felony for anyone to restrain or abandon a dog during a declared disaster or evacuation

    The dog, “Trooper,” was found attached to a fence in rising floodwaters while Hurricane Milton approached last year. A new family later adopted Trooper.

    Trooper dealt with some health issues within the past year but is now doing “fantastic”, Trooper’s owner, Frank Spina, said.

    Giovanny Aldama Garcia of Ruskin was facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty after he admitted to leaving his dog on the side of the road. The charges were dropped after State Attorney Suzy Lopez’s office said that there is not enough evidence to prove that Trooper was intentionally tied to the fence.

    Frank Spina adopted Trooper after the storm. (Spectrum News)

    Spina told Spectrum News he was “disgusted” to hear that the charges had been dropped.

    “To find out a year later that they’re going to withdraw the charges because they lack evidence? There’s clearly something wrong with this picture,” he said.

    A spokesperson said that the FHP trooper who found the dog recently said during the deposition process that he found the dog stuck to the fence by its collar.

    With nothing found at the scene, like a rope or chain, that Trooper would’ve been tied up with, the office could not legally move forward with the case.

    As a result of Trooper being abandoned during the storm, “Trooper’s Law” was made. “Trooper’s Law” makes it a third-degree felony for anyone to restrain or abandon a dog during a declared disaster or evacuation.

    Sarah Blazonis, Spectrum News Staff

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  • Bloomingdale High golfer Caddie Schelle redefines resilience

    TAMPA, Fla. — Just like her favorite singer, Taylor Swift, Caddie Schelle is fearless.

    A brain bleed may have knocked her down. But this Bloomingdale High golfer defied the odds and got back up. As she goes through the paces of her rehabilitation, Schelle continues to impress.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Bloomingdale High golfer Caddie Schelle suffered a brain bleed during a high school practice

    •  She was taken on an air flight to Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital

    •  She has been through extensive rehabilitation, relearning how to walk and talk


    “Caddie represents what we all think we can be and that is resilient, strong, determined,” her dad, Rob Schelle, said. “She is just showing everybody that there aren’t limitations.”

    The Schelles’ world turned upside down on Aug. 12 when Caddie collapsed during a golf practice. She was taken to Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital on an air flight, and that’s when the fight for her life began.

    The rupture in her brain affects her left side. She has had to relearn how to walk and talk and basically do everything again.

    “You think you know your kid after 15-and-a-half years of bringing them up,” Rob Schelle said. “We can’t be more proud.”

    The rehab is not easy. There’s pain at times. But Caddie is focused on one thing. No matter how hard the task is, no matter how much her head hurts, each step she takes gets her closer to the golf course.

    “I just want to go hit some balls,” Caddie said.

    The golf community can’t wait for her return. Various fundraisers have been held for the Schelle family — a lot of people reaching out, wanting to help and praying for Caddie. Her fight has touched so many. And it’s inspired so many.

    “She’s always said she wants to change the world, and it’s been amazing to see her change it,” her mother, Kilene, said. “Like, she’s changed our community, she’s changed.”

    Katherine Smith

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