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Tag: Calvin Lewis

  • Citrus County celebrates purchase of Pirate’s Cove with ribbon cutting ceremony

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    OZELLO, Fla. — Conservation efforts of a secluded corridor in Citrus County got a major boost on Tuesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • A special-ribbon cutting ceremony was held by Citrus County officials with the purchase of Pirate’s Cove

    • For years, the 3.6-acre waterfront property has been the topic of construction for developers
    • Citrus County moved to purchase the land, intending to conserve the natural landscape 
    • For many residents, the area serves as a reminder of the old Florida where they grew up


    Citrus County is celebrating the purchase of Pirate’s Cove, a 3.6-acre waterfront property. For years, the area has been the topic of construction for developers. But now the location will remain a spot to preserve Florida’s natural beauty.

    “Pirate’s Cove is now a forever part of the Citrus County story,” said Citrus County Commissioner Jeff Kinnard.

    The recent purchase has one objective in mind: preserving a piece of old Florida.

    “In a county and state that are growing as fast as we are, places like Pirate’s Cove are becoming rare,” said Kinnard. “This property represents the Florida many of us grew up with — the untouched, rugged, and serene landscape that defines our heritage.”

    “This is a big part of my history and who I am,” said Homosassa resident Nicole Williams. “I’ve learned a lot down here.”

    Williams is a lifelong Homosassa resident. She says Pirate’s Cove played a significant role in her childhood. Something, she says, she has passed on to her children.

    “Preserving this historical spot, specifically, has been a big part of raising our kids,” she said. “We’ve used the launch, we’ve fished out here, we’ve done a lot of weekend activities. So just important all the way around.”

    For years, the cove has been the topic of discussion for developers. With interests in construction. But with the county buying the land, Pirate’s Cove will remain as nature intended.

    “I do think it’s important that when you wake up here in Citrus County, you remember why you came here, and that’s because of the beautiful landscape,” said Williams.

    A beautiful landscape now protected for years to come.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Florida Wildlife Corridor Day highlights projects helping Florida’s waterways

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Earlier this week, Florida Wildlife Corridor Day took place at the State Capitol.

    The main event was an exhibit provided by Save Crystal River, highlighting how state-funded projects are helping Florida’s waterways and communities. The group says there are currently three iniatives: continuing the planting of seagrass, opening of spring vents and the placing of exo-forms which would help break waves.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida Wildlife Corridor Day took place earlier this week in Tallahassee, with Save Crystal River showcasing an exhibit

    • That exhibit highlighted how state-funded projects are helping Florida’s waterways and communities

    • Conservation efforts to save Florida’s waterways are taking stage in Crystal River, with groups like the Friends of the Crystal River Wildlife National Refuge doing their part

    • Their goal is to ensure the survival of the waterways and those who call it home


    “It’s not a series of problems that are unique just to Crystal River and Citrus County,” said Lisa Moore, President of Save Crystal River. “All up and down the coast there have been places where those exo-forms would be useful to try to protect your shoreline.”

    And those conservation efforts to save Florida’s waterways are taking stage in Crystal River.

    Along the water outside the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Lace Blue-McLean and K.C. Nayfield take in a spectacular view.

    “Our main mission is literally to support the Crystal River refuge complex- Chassahowitzka, Crystal River, and Three Sisters Springs,” said Blue-McLean.

    The two are the president and vice president of the Friends of the Crystal River Wildlife National Refuge. It’s a nonprofit dedicated to protecting these waterways, which are at risk, they say, of pollutants and other threats.

    “We’re loving it to death,” said Blue-McLean. “It’s just the management of finding that balance … of tourists that come and enjoy this wonderful area without destroying it at the same time and overusing it.”

    The group is working to protect the refuge and partnering with Save Crystal River. They’re raising funds for platforms and a manatee rescue ramp at Three Sisters Springs. The goal is to ensure the survival of the waterways and those who call it home.

    “Three Sisters Springs is a key place for releasing manatees back into the wild,” Blue-McLean said. “This ramp needs to be spruced up a little bit. So with that, with the platforms and the fishing pier we just added on that ramp, it’s up to $400,000 and we’re almost there.”

    “Once Three Sisters is done, we have some other ideas with improving access to some of the other parts of the refuge with boardwalks and viewing towers elsewhere,” said Nayfield. “So our work is never going to be done.”

    It’s a tireless effort, Nayfield says. One that goes beyond preserving, as education also plays a key role. That can be seen inside the visitor center. 

    “We need to keep it up. Keep providing the public with access to learn about nature, why we have the nature, of course, and why it’s worth preserving and seeing these beautiful creatures that inhabit the property and realizing they need to be conserved and preserved as well,” Nayfield said.

    So that others may enjoy nature like this.

    “People come to the Nature Coast for all of the natural resources that we have here in Citrus County, which is the largest in the state of Florida by the way,” said Blue-McLean. “We want to continue to protect that because once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

    A view worth protecting for future generations.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Local Girl Scouts lead project to improve Tarpon Springs’ water quality

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — Down by the Sponge Docks, a noble project gets underway.

    What You Need To Know

    • Two local Girl Scouts are leading a unique project to help improve water quality, using oyster shells to create vertical oyster gardens or ‘vogs’

    • Oyster gardens act as a natural filter for pollutants in the water and a habitat for small marine life
    • Each vog has 20 to 25 oyster shells attached, attracting oyster larvae where they will grow into mature oysters and can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day
    • Waddell and Mills are looking to install 100 vogs in Tarpon Springs


    Two local Girl Scouts are leading a unique project to help improve water quality. They’re using oyster shells to create vertical oyster gardens. The oyster gardens act as a natural filter for pollutants in the water and a habitat for small marine life.

    “The main purpose of them is for oyster larvae to attach to them so they can start growing,” says Susie Mills, Girl Scout Troop 712 & 807.

    Girl Scouts Rylie Waddell and Susie Mills are leading the project.

    “We saw that our waterways are kind of murky, full of pollution,” said Rylie Waddell, Girl Scout Troop 712 & 107. “We know that’s not good for the environment or the health of our sea life and we want to make a change in that.”

    Each shell is placed on a rope to create what’s called a ‘vog,’ or vertical oyster garden. The vog is then tied off near the sea wall where it acts as a natural filter.

    “Each vog has 20 to 25 oyster shells and those oyster shells will attract oyster larvae because oyster larvae look for a hard-like surface to kind of cement to,” says Waddell. “So they will grow and they’ll grow into mature oysters, which can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day.”

    The girls are not alone on their mission. Behind them is a team of family and volunteers.

    “I’m just happy that other people also see the problem and want to help,” says Mills. “It’s very encouraging because I know I wouldn’t be able to do this all by myself.”

    “It’s such a noble project and our river needs help,” says Mick Poppa, harbourmaster for the City of Tarpon Springs.

    People who frequent the river already recognize their hard work.

    “Some of my fishermen at the marina that have slips at the marina are always so remorseful about what’s going on with the estuaries upriver and how the fishing isn’t as good as it used to be,” said Poppa. “This will do nothing but help that.”

    With 100 vogs as their goal, Waddell and Mills are looking to make a sizable impact.

    “We hope to clean up most, if not all, of this waterway,” said Mills.

    Protecting the water and what comes with it.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Withlacoochee River could be headed toward record low water levels this summer

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    DUNNELLON, Fla. — Conservation leaders say lakes, rivers and the aquifer in Citrus County could be headed toward record low levels by this summer.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lakes, rivers and the aquifer in Citrus County could be headed toward record low levels by this summer

    • In last month’s hydrologic report, the Southwest Florida Water Management District says current water levels along the Withlacoochee River are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago
    • The dip in water levels could affect businesses along the river, such as Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak
    • SWFWMD officials say they do not expect conditions to improve until the summer with some much-needed rain in the wet season


    A recent hydrologic report from the Southwest Florida Water Management District shows that current water levels along the Withlacoochee River are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago because of the shortfall of rain we’re seeing across the region.

    “Our shop does both a trip on the Rainbow (River), a trip on the Withlacoochee, and I always tell people, no matter what, that the confluence is the coolest spot,” Rainbow River and Kayak owner Meriah Kirk said.

    Tucked away amongst the trees in Dunnellon, you’ll come across Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak — a business that thrives on both the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers. But recently, something about the water is being noticed.

    “Usually they’re at least, this time of year, about up to here,” Kirk said, pointing out water lines. “They’ve been about up to here, but now even further.”

    Kirk said staff and visitors alike have noticed a dip in the river’s level.

    “We have had some people comment on the flows being lower, being a little more stagnant,” she said. “And then with the way over in the marina, the way the cove is very stagnant, we’ve had some of our boat owners there kind of comment on that.”

    Following the river south into Pasco County, Mark Fulkerson with the Southwest Florida Water Management District surveys the river.

    “Over the past three decades, we’ve had four severe droughts that hit the Withlacoochee River,” Fulkerson said. “Just in those 30 years, it’s only happened four times. But this year, just looking at the data, we’re shaping into a fifth one of those.”

    In last month’s hydrologic report, Fulkerson noted water levels are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago. A big change for the river and surrounding ecosystem.

    “Last year at this time, we were three months after Milton,” Fulkerson said. “The water was probably 3 feet higher than it is now. So that’s kind of the difference between last year and this year. This year, we didn’t have a Milton. We didn’t have a big, real wet season to fill things up.”

    Just looking at the surrounding trees, you’ll notice water lines from Milton are still there, showing just how low the river has become. Fulkerson said he does not expect conditions to improve until the summer with some much-needed rain in the wet season.

    “Those summer rains are going to have to materialize a lot better than what we had last year, or we’re going to go into maybe an additional year of very low water levels.”

    As for Kirk and her business, she said she remains optimistic for rainfall — even with the business’ busiest time of year, spring break, just around the corner.

    “The springs are really important, so I think it’s important to make sure we’re taking care of them and making sure we’re doing as much as we can to take care of them,” Kirk said.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County Schools planning to create first K-8 campus in East Pasco

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    DADE CITY, Fla. — Pasco County School officials are looking at creating a new K-8 school campus.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County School officials are looking to combine Pasco Elementary and Pasco Middle to create a new K-8 school campus

    • The district hinted at the possibility in December when the school board named Gretchen Rudolph-Fladd as the half-time principal of both campuses
    • Unlike other K-8 mergers in the district, those with the district say this move is not related to efficient use of space but rather for academic reasons
    • The school board could vote on the proposal as early as next week during a meeting on Feb. 17


    This would combine Pasco Elementary School and neighboring Pasco Middle School into one school, creating the first K-8 school in East Pasco County.

    Employees at both schools first learned of the proposal in January. The district hinted at the possibility in December when the school board named Gretchen Rudolph-Fladd as the half-time principal of both campuses. If approved, she would become the principal of the K-8 school.

    Unlike other K-8 mergers in the district, those with the district say this move is not related to efficient use of space, but rather for academic reasons.

    Superintendent John Legg says ongoing behavior and course performance concerns at Pasco Middle are a motivating factor. District data shows the school as having one of the highest levels of student absents of all 20 schools with middle school students.

    “It gives them better opportunities in the upper grade divisions,” said Legg. “So what we see is we see it as a win-win for parents, a win for students, and really a win for faculty as well in order to help those students achieve their goals.”

    Meanwhile, parents Spectrum Bay News 9 spoke to seem pretty split on the proposal. Some say they would welcome the change, while others see it negatively impacting their child’s education and would rather explore other methods of teaching.

    “As long as my kids are getting the education that they need and deserve, that’s really all I’m concerned about,” said Eric Rondo, a parent of two students at Pasco Middle School.

    “The thoughts scream louder that there’s definitely reasons why enrollment is dropping and that, in and of itself, makes me want to explore options that might be better for my kids,” said parent Amanda Bookman.

    Legg says there will be no changes in enrollment or service boundaries. He says the proposal will allow for more flexibility and innovative programs at that campus.

    The school board could vote on the proposal as early as next week during a meeting on Feb. 17.

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  • LILLY Learning Center offers students new direction on path of education

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    ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. — A Pasco County entrepreneur is changing the perception of homeschooling.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lexa Duno opened the LILLY Learning Center in 2024 as an alternative teaching method for students with learning disabilities

    • With a smaller atmosphere focused on helping students with learning disabilities, the center differs from your average school
    • Now, already two years in existence, Duno is noticing a positive trend among students and parents


    Lexa Duno opened the LILLY Learning Center as an alternative teaching method for students with learning disabilities. The learning center is helping shape the young minds of tomorrow.

    Hard at work inside a classroom are students, including mother and daughter duo Dacia and Julia Mitchell.

    “She’s an incredibly gifted child,” said Dacia of her daughter, Julia. “Both of our kids really are.”

    The center differs from your average school. It’s a smaller atmosphere focused on helping those students with learning disabilities.

    “As a mom of six, I find that there’s a learning environment for every child and every child is different,” said Dacia.

    Dacia said it was a struggle to find the right fit for her children — a struggle many parents go through.

    “We’ve done public school, private school, homeschool, we have two in boarding school — I mean, literally, you name it. If there’s a school out there, we’ve given it a go. I think that a lot of parents are finding the same frustrations that there is not necessarily one right way,” she said.

    Something that founder Duno realized while working as a literary specialist.

    “I work with a lot of kids who need reading interventions and, at that point in time, I was getting a lot of kids who were homeschooled in the area,” said Duno.

    That’s when she decided to open up LILLY, with the help of SMARTstart Pasco Incubators. It’s helping students who might need a little help on their path to education.

    “A diagnosed learning disability or maybe because they, for some reason, aren’t fitting socially or emotionally in the traditional school system and their families are looking for a really small, safe environment beyond the school system for them to grow and thrive and to be able to learn amongst their peers in a social learning environment,” said Duno.

    Now, already two years in existence, Duno is noticing a positive trend.

    “We have parents who think (their) child is probably not going to interact or participate,” she said. “And then, in a short amount of time, they come and they’re able to just thrive, which is amazing.”

    It’s changing the lives of Dacia and her daughter, and helping these students reach their full potential

    “It’s just a great place for you to learn who your child is and for them to learn who they are, about themselves and really grow into that,” Dacia said.

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  • New Port Richey to build 2 coastal cottage homes in flood prone area

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — The City of New Port Richey is moving forward with a plan to build two coastal cottage homes in the Edgewater Gardens subdivision.

    What You Need To Know

    • Two coastal cottage homes will be built in New Port Richey’s Edgewater Gardens subdivision

    • Construction of the homes is part of a bigger initiative to develop new housing that aligns with the city’s goal of building resilient neighborhoods
    • The neighborhood is within the flood zone classification AE, which indicates an elevated risk of flooding
    • The coastal design of the homes will feature an elevated floor plan with a garage or carport on the ground level, allowing living spaces above so that they are protected from flooding


    Both homes will be built on two lots that are currently owned by the city. Those lots are within the flood zone classification AE, which indicates an elevated risk of flooding.

    This subdivision flooded during hurricanes Helene and Milton, forcing many of its occupants to leave. The project is being over-seen by the city’s economic development director, Dave Gammon.

    Gammon says construction of the homes is part of a bigger initiative to develop new housing that aligns with the city’s goal of building resilient neighborhoods.

    “We cannot produce the same neighborhood again,” said Gammon. “These were built decades ago. They’re not sustainable, they’re not safe, they’re not resilient. What we can do with coastal cottage is change that, and if we can figure a way to make it affordable for the residents here and new residents, that’s what the aim is or the goal.”

    The coastal design of the homes will feature an elevated floor plan with a garage or carport on the ground level, allowing living spaces above that so that they are protected from flooding.

    Gammon says they are still in the process of hiring a builder. As for a timeline, he says they hope to have the two homes finished by early 2027.

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  • Crystal River approves new shuttle to help with busy manatee season

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — It’s the height of manatee season, and local leaders are adding accommodations to help visitors get to their destinations easier.

    What You Need To Know

    • At the height of manatee season, Crystal River city leaders are adding a shuttle to help visitors get around the city more efficiently

    • According to city leaders, the area sees more than 100,000 visitors this time of year for manatees
    • Because of growing numbers, city council approved the purchase of a new shuttle to help reduce wait times from an hour to 30 minutes


    The city of Crystal River recently bought a new shuttle. Once it’s up and running, leaders say it will help ease the flow of increased traffic between the Three Sisters Springs Visitor Center. The recent investment is coming at a crucial time for the “Manatee Capital of the World.”

    Gathered around Three Sisters Springs, visitors fill the water’s edge, snapping pictures, trying to glimpse of the manatees huddled together down below.

    “The colder the weather, the more manatees we have and the more visitors we have to see those manatees,” said Crystal River City Manager Audra Curts.

    It’s the height of manatee season, the city’s busiest time of year. It’s something Curts understands better than most.

    “We have in excess of 100,000 visitors per season, probably reaching the 200,000 range at this point, coming to the area to see these manatees,” said Curts. “That’s a lot of people for a very small town to absorb.”

    Due to those growing numbers, the city recently approved the purchase of a new shuttle, helping reduce wait times from an hour to 30 minutes. Parking lots throughout the city are also being made accessible to the route.

    “They even have a QR code so that people can buy their tickets to the refuge to see the manatees right from the parking lot,” says Curts. “Then they board the bus and they can come down here and go straight to the park at the gate.”

    “With the crowds getting larger and larger, the City of Crystal River has done a great job of recognizing those needs,” said Director of Tourism Auvis Cole. He said the move is much needed.

    “It’s connecting all of our resources and our attractions,” he said. “But number two, and I think it’s really the most important thing, is it offers accessibility. Everyone cannot walk the short distances or whatever and it’s really important to make sure we welcome all visitors.”

    Connecting visitors with all there is to see in Crystal River.

    “This is one of the most beautiful places on Earth and our manatees, obviously, many people love to come here and see them,” said Curts. “We welcome everyone to come see the manatees here in Crystal River.”

    Getting them one step closer to nature.

    Curts says they hope to have that new shuttle soon. In the meantime, the city’s current stock of buses is running more frequent routes to help transport visitors.

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  • Weeki Wachee residents spearhead campaign for winter manatee sanctuary

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    WEEKI WACHEE, Fla. — Local groups are concerned for the wellbeing of manatees on the Weeki Wachee River.

    What You Need To Know

    • Concerned residents along the Weeki Wachee River are spearheading a campaign to turn Hospital Hole into a winter manatee sanctuary

    • Just a few weeks ago, roughly 20 paddleboarders could be seen on cell phone video among the manatees
    • Manatees are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, making it illegal to feed, chase, touch or disturb them
    • If you happen to witness any banned behavior toward manatees or other marine mammals, you can call FWC at 1-888-404-FWCC


    Homeowners say there has been recent overcrowding on the river, especially near Hospital Hole, with too many paddleboards leaving no room for manatees to travel. The issue is spearheading a campaign to turn the area into a manatee sanctuary.

    On the Weeki Wachee River, the only sound is nature. And the occasional manatee letting out a deep breath.

    Hospital Hole is a peaceful spot for the gentle sea cows during Florida’s winter months.

    “The depth and the warmth of this water is important to them,” said Maryann Johnson, a member of the Weeki Wachee River Rescue Team.

    Only not too long ago, these waters were home to a different scene. Roughly 20 paddleboarders could be seen, captured on cell phone video among the manatees.

    “We’ve noticed a lot more aggressive activity here with people,” says Johnson.

    The nonprofit group of volunteers is dedicated to protecting the environment and wildlife on the river. Johnson says situations like this one can be overwhelming and dangerous for the manatees.

    “It was a congested mess that day,” she said. “Everyone was in here, the manatees were moving all around, and the people that had their feet hanging over were pushing them away. I can only assume that’s possibly because they were afraid of being tipped over but that’s a situation we don’t ever want to see happen again here.”

    “I was horrified, actually. Saddened and disturbed.”

    Stephanie Kozuch shares a similar sentiment.

    “We’re drawing all of these people in here to see them but we’re offering no protection for them,” says Kozuch, also a member of the group. “It just doesn’t make sense, so we need to do something.”

    Manatees are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, making it illegal to feed, chase, touch or disturb them.

    “A swimmer or paddler coming up to a manatee and disrupting their natural behavior is covered under harassment under the Marine Mammal Protection Act,” said Tiare Fridrich, manatee biologist with Save The Manatee Club.

    Protections that Johnson and Kozuch hope to have further enforced at Hospital Hole.

    “We’re hoping that FWC and others jump on board and see the need to get this possibly roped off in the winter months only,” said Johnson. “Which keeps them protected and people can still view them and still traverse and navigate this waterway.”

    Fridrich says if you happen to witness any banned behavior toward manatees or other marine mammals, you can call FWC at 1-888-404-FWCC.

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  • New blood transfusion program within Pasco County Fire Rescue helping save lives

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    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Paramedics with Pasco County Fire Rescue are getting some help when it comes to performing life-saving blood transfusions.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new blood transfusion program within Pasco County Fire Rescue is helping save lives

    • Since it started in December, those in the department say they have helped perform five transfusions with much success
    • Currently, the department has four EMS supervisors on-staff with plans to hire another this October
    • Pasco County Fire Rescue will hold a blood drive Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Station 38


    We told you how the department launched its prehospital blood transfusion program in December. Now, six weeks in, the new program is already helping save lives.

    Aboard an EMS truck at Pasco County Fire Rescue headquarters and nestled inside packs are life-saving supplies used by EMS Supervisor Justin Crook.

    “The sooner that we can get this blood on board, our patient outcomes are much better,” says Crook. “In an emergency situation, when it’s time to give it, I will assemble all the new, clean and sterile equipment. We assemble that, put the warmer in place, get the bag attached and start infusing that blood and get that to the patient in a nice, controlled manner.”

    The supplies are part of the department’s new blood transfusion program. It allows paramedics, such as Crook, to perform life-saving blood transfusions at emergency scenes and helps almost double a patient’s chance of survival.

    “It aids and assists us getting them to the surgeon where they can get definitive care,” Crook said. “Better recovery is our main goal here with the blood program.”

    Since it started in December, they have helped perform five transfusions.

    “Every minute that goes by that someone needs blood doesn’t get blood, there’s an 11% increase in mortality,” says Gregory Pollock, Division Chief of EMS for Pasco County Fire Rescue. “So that’s what we’re trying to do — we’re trying to lower that number significantly.”

    The department has four EMS supervisors. They’re already planning to hire another this October.

    “The more people we have that can carry and administer blood, it’s obvious, the more people we can get to,” says Pollock. “There’s going to be geographical limitations based on their locations, it’s just not possible to get to every single call that may need this resource. So our goal is to get as many of those people as physically possible.”

    While Crook says he hasn’t had the opportunity to deliver blood just yet, he’s ready for when the time comes.

    “With our medical direction and our chiefs, we’ve upped the game in the Tampa Bay area, and I’m very glad to be a part of that,” said Crook.

    Helping lead the way toward saving lives.

    Pasco County Fire Rescue will hold a blood drive on Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Station 38. Blood collected at the drive will go toward the transfusion program.

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  • Pasco County Fire Rescue rolls out new ‘D-shift’ with focus on wellness

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    HUDSON, Fla. — Firefighters in Pasco County are working on a new shift aimed at improving their mental health.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County Fire Rescue is implementing its new “D-shift,” designed to put firefighter wellness front and center

    • The new shift focuses on providing firefighters with an extra day of rest and time to recharge
    • Traditionally, firefighters would work 24 hours and be off for 48. Now, with the D-shift, staff will work 24 hours and be off for 72
    • This move puts PCFR among the first fire departments in Tampa Bay to adopt such a model


    Pasco County Fire Rescue is implementing its new “D-shift.”

    “Three years of work has been put into this plan, this project, and to see it finally happen is incredible,” said Dixon Phillips, president of the Pasco County Professional Firefighters Local 4420.

    It’s the turning of a new page at Fire Rescue Station 3.

    “D-shift is the culmination of an incredible commitment by both sides of the table, and this really does show what you’re capable of doing when labor and administration work together,” said Phillips.

    The shift’s focus is on providing firefighters with an extra day of rest and time to recharge.

    “Every third week we would work a Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday,” said Phillips. “So we’re gone from our families for 72 hours in that seven-day period of time. Back that up two or three years ago, when we were hitting an excessive amount of mandatory overtime, you go to work and you don’t know if you’re going to go home the next day.”

    “So there were many times where we were working 96 hours, maybe even 120 hours in a seven-day period just based on the staffing.” he said.

    Phillips said that traditionally, firefighters would work 24 hours and be off for 48. Now, with the D-shift, staff will work 24 hours and be off for 72.

    “A lot of studies have gone into the fact that firefighters are getting cancer, firefighters are getting PTSD, firefighters are mentally and emotionally getting beat down and disrupting family and home lives as well,” said Chief Ryan Guynn of Pasco County Fire Rescue. “So, we took a look at it and figured, ‘What can we do?’”

    The move puts PCFR among the first fire departments in Tampa Bay to adopt such a model.

    “It’s a holistic approach to try to take care of our firefighters,” said Guynn. “To make them the best that they can be so that when they come to work every day, they’re giving their citizens 100%.”

    It’s also putting the department on the map as a desirable place to work, with more than 100 new employees to help make the transition easier.

    “We set the industry standard,” said Phillips. “Several years ago, we started our decontamination program. We’ve had departments from California, such as Sacramento, the state of Washington come here to Pasco County to see what we’re doing for cancer prevention for our members. Now you add the D-shift and everything else we have in place. We are absolutely the place to be — one of the premier departments in the State of Florida, no question.”

    Helping raise the bar for fire rescue in the state.

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  • New parking rules coming soon to Pasco County for RVs and boat trailers

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    ANCLOTE, Fla. — In just a few weeks, Pasco County will begin enforcing new rules for parking RVs and boat trailers.

    What You Need To Know

    • New rules will be coming soon for parking RVs and boat trailers in Pasco County

    • Under the new rules, no trailers or RVs can be parked in the right-of-way, including streets, sidewalks, and grassy or paved areas
    • Violations will lead to a warning, and repeat offenders could face fines of up to $500 per day
    • Enforcement of the new rules begins Feb. 28


    At Anclote River Park, you’ll find visitors enjoying the land and the water.

    “You become one with nature,” says Daniel Marden, who is visiting Pasco County.

    Some braved the cooler temperatures to launch and load their boats, such as Marden.

    “You enjoy the water, you enjoy the scenery, you don’t have the hustle and bustle of life,” he says. “It just goes away.”

    It’s a moment for relaxation. But new rules are coming soon to the county for boat trailers. Specifically, where you can park them.

    “You’re going to have to go out a little further, you’re going to have to find a better spot to park, and all that, which is not a big deal,” Marden said.

    “It’s really just about ensuring public safety and making sure that our public parking areas are not being used for storage,” said Denise Sanderson, director of code compliance for Pasco County.

    Sanderson said that under the new rules, no trailers or RVs can be parked in the right-of-way. This includes streets, sidewalks, and grassy or paved areas.

    “Our primary concern is that commercial and recreational vehicles are properly stored in lawful areas,” says Sanderson. “And that they don’t consume the public parking spaces that are reserved for the public to conduct their business or to visit people, and so on and so forth.”

    It’s making an unwritten rule a permanent one. And it’s one that Marden does not see affecting his day-to-day on the water.

    “If you have a boat, nothing’s really going to stop you,” he said.

    Showing nothing will get in the way of paradise.

    Enforcement of the new rules begins Feb. 28. Violations will lead to a warning. Any repeat offenders could face fines of up to $500 per day.

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  • Bellamy Grove farmer says ‘so far, so good’ with cold temperatures

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — It was a chilly Thursday night and early Friday morning for many across the Tampa Bay area.

    What You Need To Know

    • A chilly Thursday night and Friday morning was a cause for concern for some farmers protecting their precious crops against the frost

    • Bellamy Grove in Inverness was one of those farms that witnessed freezing temperatures
    • Farmer and owner Chuck Bellamy says he had a low of 27°F on Friday morning at his farm
    • The family-run farm has been around since 1930, providing vegetables and fruits to visitors and locals


    For those in areas like Citrus County, one farmer says he had to battle frost to protect his precious crops.

    Spraying water over plants, like those at Ferris Groves in Citrus County, creates a protective layer over the plants to help prevent frost damage. (Photo courtesy of Ferris Groves/Beth Waller)

    “Families come out, just like you see, and they have a great time,” said Chuck Bellamy, farmer and owner of Bellamy Grove. “And the kids really like it.”

    Tucked away on the outskirts of Inverness is a family farm that has been around for decades.

    “What I have available is cabbage and the big, sweet onions, the Vidalia-type,” Bellamy says. “I have the U-Pick strawberries, I have Hamlin oranges and honey bells available right now, but those are going to be over in about a week or two.”

    For thirty years, Bellamy has been carrying on the family business by selling roadside vegetables and operating the U-Pick strawberry farm.

    “From this stage to red berry is approximately 20 days,” Bellamy says. “You can also see on the same plant many different stages of growth.”

    There may be no produce he has sweeter than the strawberry. Bellamy says a few extra precautions had to be made Thursday night into Friday morning with a freeze watch threatening his crops.

    Ferris Groves, also in Citrus County, used frost protection irrigation to protect its strawberry plans from the cold. (Photo courtesy of Ferris Groves/Beth Waller)

    Ferris Groves, also in Citrus County, used frost protection irrigation to protect its strawberry plans from the cold. (Photo courtesy of Ferris Groves/Beth Waller)

    “Turned on the water at 3 o’clock this morning, and it was 33 (degrees),” Bellamy says. “We wound up with a low of 27 (degrees), and so far, so good.”

    Bellamy says they have about an acre of strawberries at his U-Pick farm. It takes an hour to 90 minutes to get the tiny fruit covered under protective tarps.

    “This frost cloth is supposed to take it down to about 28 degrees or so in order to protect them,” Bellamy says.

    It’s a lot of work but certainly worth the time because visitors showed up Friday to pick their share of strawberries.

    “New people show up and, like I said, some regular people showed up this afternoon and this morning already,” Bellamy says. “This is how I make my living. So when I’m open, this is how I make my living.”

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  • Citrus County farm says cold weather will yield sweeter strawberries

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    FLORAL CITY, Fla. — Farmers in areas like Citrus County are taking precautions when it comes to protecting crops and agriculture during cold weather. It’s a livelihood for many businesses, like Ferris Groves.

    What You Need To Know

    • With some in the Tampa Bay area under a freeze watch, some are taking precautions when it comes to crops and agriculture

    • Farmers, like those at Ferris Groves, are preparing their fields for the chill

    • Farm manager Matt Reichenbach says their main goal with the frost protection is to make ice for the crops

    • Despite the chillier temps, those at the farm say the cold can be beneficial to the taste of the fruit


    In a field of strawberries, Ferris Groves farm manager Matt Reichenbach inspects the abundance of bright red fruit. While they look good and plenty right now, a freeze warning is in effect for overnight Thursday into Friday.

    “On a freeze, you want to protect these blooms and the green fruit,” said Reichenbach. “That’s the most sensitive.”

    Reichenbach has been working on the farm for about 11 years, so he’s no stranger to the cold weather they experience this time of year.

    “Our goal here with the frost protection is to make ice,” said Reichenbach. “The strawberry fields here have two irrigation systems … a drip and another sprinkler irrigation for frost protection.”

    It’s fighting cold with cold. Despite the chillier temps, Reichenbach says the cold can be beneficial to the taste of the fruit.

    “As long as we do our job right and everything goes smoothly, the cold really won’t affect too much. It makes the strawberries sweet,” he said.

    Strawberry season runs from Thanksgiving to Easter, but for the rest of the crew at Ferris Groves, it’s a 24/7 business with an assortment of products made available for locals and visitors alike.

    “We’re trying to do our best to keep it going and be apart of the legacy of Ferris,” Reichenbach said. “So it’s pretty cool to be a part of it.”

    A legacy that is nearly 100 years in the making. They take great pride in the farm to table freshness.

    “We’ve got a great supply of strawberries,” said Reichenbach. “This cold weather will just make them sweeter and continue to grow. We should have a great rest of season.”

    Showing even the smallest of fruit can have the biggest of impacts.

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  • National nonprofit helps military spouses, veterans enter workforce

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    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — Military spouses are facing a challenge when it comes to being hired in the workforce.

    What You Need To Know

    • Military spouses experience an unemployment rate of around 20% to 22%, according to the U.S. Department of Labor
    • Many are underemployed or forced to accept part-time work due to unpredictable schedules
    • The nonprofit has helped with more than 110,000 hires


    According to the U.S. Department of Labor, military spouses experience an unemployment rate of around 20% to 22%, which is about four times higher than the national average. Many are underemployed or forced to accept part-time work due to unpredictable schedules. One nonprofit is helping change that.

    “We’re big kids. We just like to have fun.”

    At the Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, Jasmine Then reflects on some old photos pictured with her husband.

    “We just love exploring, going to different theme parks,” said Then. “We actually went to Disney Sea in Japan as well.”

    Then is a proud military spouse. Her husband, Erick, serves in the National Guard. But because of frequent relocations and an unpredictable family schedule, Then experienced challenges when it came to finding work.

    “It’s been much more difficult than I thought it’d be,” she says. “I think, also, factoring in that we moved to such a rural area — we’re about an hour north of Tampa and that’s where a lot of the opportunities are. I am seeking remote work because I’m still a military spouse and my husband does deploy from time to time.”

    But help came when she discovered the nonprofit Hire Heroes USA. The national organization offers free career coaching, resume support and job search resources for veterans and military spouses.

    “What we do is just be a coach for these veterans and military spouses in their employment search,” said Kelly Grivner-Kelly, the serving spouses program manager with Hire Heroes USA.

    Through the nonprofit, Grivner-Kelly says, they have helped with more than 110,000 hires.

    “Military spouses are really one of the most educated and resilient workforces but they really face unemployment around 21% to 22%, which is four to five times higher than the national average,” said Grivner-Kelly. “So this is really an untapped talent pool but they’re struggling to find meaningful employment. A lot of that deals with having to move every two to three years.”

    Then fits that demographic. But there may be a solution ahead. 

    “I’ve submitted hundreds of applications, but there is some light at the end of the tunnel. I’m actually moving on to my third round of interviews this week for a talent acquisition coordinator role.”

    An opportunity that has come from the help of Hire Heroes USA and some self-perseverance.

    “There’s so much out there,” said Then. “Just take the time, do your due diligence and be your own self-advocate.”

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  • New road data shows Citrus County behind in road repairs

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — A recent study shows that Citrus County is behind when it comes to road repairs.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to a recent study, Citrus County is behind when it comes to road repairs

    • About 600 miles of roadway are classified as very poor, with another 350 miles in poor condition

    • Data has been collected by a new software developed by engineering consultant Mott McDonald, showing the county is carrying a road repair backlog of more than $700 million

    • Repairs are currently on-going, with funds coming from the American Rescue Plan Act


    About 600 miles of roadway are classified as very poor, with another 350 miles in poor condition. But plans are being made within local government to make necessary repairs.

    “I’m just glad that they’re paying attention to Beverly Hills, in general,” said Ashanti Negron.

    For 11 years, Negron has called Beverly Hills home. It’s also where she owns her salon, Bobbi Pinz.

    “In the last three years since COVID, people have been migrating here in droves,” said Negron. “People are moving from South Florida, they move from up north, so we have more traffic.”

    That traffic, she says, is noticeable from outside her shop. With the local roadways taking a beating.

    For 11 years, Ashanti Negron has called Beverly Hills home. She has noticed the traffic and road issues. (Spectrum News/Calvin Lewis)

    “Some of these side roads really get neglected,” Negron said. “What happens is you get big fissures in the side. The main road looks nice and everything’s done new. But then you go off into the side street and if that’s where your house is, then you’ve got a dip. It would be nice if they went into that a little more.”

    Negron is not the only one noticing, either.

    Citrus County recently completed a road study. It analyzed data collected by new software developed by engineering consultant Mott McDonald.

    Citrus County maintains 1,844 paved miles of road every year. That data shows almost 600 miles of roads are classified as very poor. Another 350 miles fall into the poor category.

    “The roads don’t seem bad when you’re driving through the county,” said Citrus County Commissioner and Chair Diana Finegan. “But when you get into some of our residential areas, you’ll find that much road work is needed.”

    Finegan says repairs are already being made. This new software, she says, will also be accessible to residents to see which roads may be next on the list.

    “They’ll be able to go online, look at how much money the board has put aside for regular servicing for the year and they can see which roads are coming up,” she says.

    It’s good news for residents like Negron, who says she embraces the repairs and the traffic that may come with it.

    “It’ll be good,” she said. “And more people is always better, to me. But I did grow up in Manhattan!”

    The recent data shows the county is carrying a road repair backlog of more than $700 million. Funding, Finegan says, will be coming from the American Rescue Plan Act.

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  • Planned renovations coming soon for iconic 100-year-old train caboose

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — A unique piece of Citrus County history is getting some much-needed renovations. 

    Dozens of people gathered at the Inverness Trailhead of the Withlacoochee State Trail on Monday, learning about revival plans for a 100-year-old train caboose.

    “Historic, iconic, maybe even charming,” said Citrus County commissioner Rebecca Bays. “Low maintenance is not one of them.”

    What You Need To Know

    • At the start of the Inverness Trailhead, proudly stands a 100-year-old train caboose with ties to the city’s past

    • Dozens of people gathered at the Inverness Trailhead of the Withlacoochee State Trail on Monday, learning about revival plans for the historic train caboose
    • Painting of the exterior has been completed but more work is yet to come, such as that on the interior


    At the start of the Inverness Trailhead, proudly stands a relic of Citrus County’s past.

    “Today marks the kickoff of the restoration of this 1925 Megor Car Company caboose,” said Bays.

    This 100-year-old train caboose has stood in that very spot since 2003, standing as a monument to the history of Inverness and local area. With its red exterior, it’s pretty hard to miss.

    “We put it here as a symbol of rail commerce that came through Inverness,” said Thomas Craig, President of the Friends of Withlacoochee State Trail.

    Craig says it’s thanks to donors, annual ride sponsors and members of the Friends of Withlacoochee State Trail Citizens Support Organization that they have enough funding to start phase one of restoration.

    “It’s turned into a presentation of what we can do and what we’re going to be doing to finish the exterior of this caboose.”

    Painting of the caboose’s exterior has already begun, a process that Craig said has required careful consideration. Ensuring it remains historically accurate.

    “We worked with a Macon, Georgia, museum that has an exact duplicate of this, and we all agreed that the color that it came off the line, because it was made for a seaboard, is this color,” said Craig.

    More work is yet to come, such as that on the interior. It is work that Craig said he does not take for granted.

    “Inverness being a ‘small town done right,’ the caboose is just a natural part of that. And to be able to fix it and preserve it for the next 50 years and be personally involved in it, that’s something that I can be proud of.”

    So that this buggy may stand for another 100 years and more.

    Craig said the next renovations on the list will be painting the metal and replacing the roof. He says once they finish painting the caboose and fixing the roof, they would like to fix the interior.

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  • Animal cruelty database goes online, listing animal abuse offenders online

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A statewide animal cruelty database is set to launch today. 

    It’s the newest phase of Dexter’s Law, named after a 4-year-old black and white bulldog mix. He was adopted from Pinellas County Animal Services and then, days later, found brutally killed in Fort De Soto Park.

    Dexter’s Law allows judges to increase penalties in animal cruelty cases. That part went into effect back in July. But today, the part of the law requiring the state to create and maintain a public database of abusers goes into effect. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The State of Florida is launching an animal cruelty database on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website today as part of Dexter’s Law

    • Dexter’s Law went into effect in July, allowing judges to increase penalties in animal cruelty cases
    • Those who have either been found guilty, pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty charges will be listed in the database
    • If your name is placed in the database, it will stay there for ten years- with re-offenders placed back in the databse for another ten years


    Those people who have either been found guilty, pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty charges will be listed in the database. This database will take public records and pull them onto the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website.

    It’s designed to help shelters and pet rescues that screen applicants before the adoption process is complete. It will also help pet owners looking to re-home their pets and even law enforcement and investigators as they work cases.

    Debbie Darino is the founder of Dexter’s Law along with Ponce Animal Foundation. She says she hopes it will add better protections for animals.

    “I’m hoping that the animal shelters, the rescues, law enforcement, animal control- they’re the first people on the front line when it comes to getting an animal adopt it out,” said Darino. “Then your average person wanting to rehome their pet, for whatever reason, they can just go look in the database.”

    And Darino says a few countys have a registry of animal abusers. But some of those, she says, were having issues keeping track of those on the list that may have moved to a different state. This database, she says, will help troubleshoot those issues.

    If your name is placed in the database, it will stay there for ten years. But if you re-offend at some point, your name will go back into that databse for another ten years.

    Darino says she’s also working on making Dexter’s Law a federal law.

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  • K9 Partners For Patriots say they are at risk of losing funding this year

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A local veteran’s organization is at risk of losing major federal funding at the end of this year. 

    K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program. Through its work, the organization says it provides mental health support to veterans.

    Inside this warehouse, Frank Cohen runs through a few drills with his canine partner Gracie.

    What You Need To Know

    • K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program

    • Those with the organization say this particular funding will expire December 31
    • It represents a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines, like Frank Cohen and his partner Gracie
    • Even though money has been approved for 2026, those with the organization say those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months


    “She’s significantly more than a pet because she goes with me everywhere, and some people will call them their partner but she’s a teammate for me,” said Cohen. “She has my back, and I have her back.”

    It’s possible due to K9 Partners For Patriots, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide. Dogs are screened to qualify and go through training with veterans. Cohen has been partnered with Gracie since 2023.

    “Every dog that’s considered as a prospect for the program goes through the AKC temperament testing that they do here at the facility,” says Cohen. “So she had to go through that first, and she passed it with flying colors.”

    But now the organization is at risk of losing critical federal funding. Communications director Gregg Laskoski said it’s money that comes from the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program.

    “We’ve been receiving that funding since 2015,” Laskoski said. “Unfortunately, the funding allocation for fiscal year 2025 has not been disbursed. Congress has stalled on that, and they’re telling us we have an allocation for fiscal year 2026, but that doesn’t get dispersed until maybe August or September.”

    Laskoski said that 28 other organizations are at risk of losing their funding as well. Which he said would be a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines.

    “It gives them confidence because when they start to see that it’s their work training the dog that becomes their canine partner, that builds their confidence,” said Laskoski. “They see, hey, this is really working, and it pushes them forward, and you can see it in their body language. You can see it in their facial expressions.”

    Offering veterans like Cohen a new lease on life.

    “This feeling like a deer in the headlights all the time is an exhausting process,” said Cohen. “I don’t feel like that anymore because Gracie watches out for me in ways that I don’t have to. You know, that’s her job, God bless her.”

    Laskoski says this particular funding for their organization will expire December 31. Even though money has been approved for 2026, he says those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months.

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  • K9 Partners For Patriots say they are at risk of losing funding this year

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A local veterans organization is at risk of losing major federal funding at the end of this year. 

    K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program. Through it’s work, the organization says it provides mental health support to veterans.

    Inside this warehouse, Frank Cohen runs through a few drills with his canine partner Gracie.

    What You Need To Know

    • K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program

    • Those with the organization say this particular funding will expire December 31
    • It represents a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines, like Frank Cohen and his partner Gracie
    • Even though money has been approved for 2026, those with the organization say those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months


    “She’s significantly more than a pet because she goes with me everywhere and some people will call them their partner but she’s a teammate for me,” said Cohen. “She has my back and I have her back.”

    It’s through K9 Partners For Patriots, a non-profit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide. Dogs are screened to qualify and go through training with veterans. Cohen has been partnered with Gracie since 2023.

    “Every dog that’s considered as a prospect for the program goes through the AKC temperament testing that they do here at the facility,” says Cohen. “So she had to go through that first and she passed it with flying colors.”

    But now the organization is at risk of losing critical, federal funding. Communications director Gregg Laskoski said it’s money that comes from the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program.

    “We’ve been receiving that funding since 2015,” says Laskoski. “Unfortunately, the funding allocation for fiscal year 2025 has not been dispersed. Congress has stalled on that and they’re telling us we have an allocation for fiscal year 2026, but that doesn’t get dispersed until maybe August or September.”

    Laskoski says 28 other organizations are at risk of losing their funding as well. Which he says would be a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines.

    “It gives them confidence because when they start to see that it’s their work training the dog that becomes their canine partner, that builds their confidence,” said Laskoski. “They see- hey- this is really working and it pushes them forward and you can see it in their body language. You can see it in their facial expressions.”

    Offering veterans, like Cohen, a new lease on life.

    “This feeling like a deer in the headlights all the time is an exhausting process,” said Cohen. “I don’t feel like that anymore because Gracie watches out for me in ways that I don’t have to. You know, that’s her job- God bless her.”

    And, you can say, it’s changed Gracie’s life as well

    Laskoski says this particular funding for their organization will expire December 31. Even though money has been approved for 2026, he says those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months.

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