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Tag: Calvin Lewis

  • Pasco County mother, school employee accused of killing her son

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    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — A Land O’ Lakes mother is facing murder charges in the death of her child.

    The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office arrested 40-year-old Justine Mroz on Sunday night in connection to the death of her 6-year-old son.

    It all began when the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office got a call shortly before 10 a.m. Sunday.

    Deputies say the call came from Mroz herself.

    Mroz is employed by Pasco County Schools to provide ESE services, helping students with disabilities.

    The school district provided the following statement:

    “On behalf of the entire Pasco County Schools family, we extend our deepest condolences to all who are grieving. We are deploying crisis teams to provide care and support to those affected by this heartbreaking event.”

    Meanwhile, the sheriff’s office has not released how the child died, saying it’s still being investigated.

    A few neighbors who did not want to appear on camera said they were shocked by the news of what happened, saying this is a quiet neighborhood and that their neighbor seemed nice.

    They also said they were sad to hear what happened.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Calvin Lewis

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  • Florida’s top K9 units gather in Brooksville for statewide K9 tracking event

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — K9 units from across the state of Florida recently gathered at Brooksville’s Chinsegut Hill for a unique competition: the 2025 Statewide K9 Tracking and Training Event.

    The Florida Department of Corrections hosted the event on Oct. 13 to showcase the abilities of the top-qualifying K9 tracking teams from across the state.

    What You Need To Know

    • Chinsegut Hill recently served as the host of the 2025 Statewide K9 Tracking and Training Event
    • Top-qualifying K9 tracking teams from across the state competed to come out as the top team in Florida
    • Cross City Correctional Institution came away with the top prize in this year’s competition 


    Public funding is helping these units make a difference.

    “It was a really good competition,” said Cross City Correctional Institution K9 Sgt. Mitch Osteen. “People here we were competing against are some of the best in the state — it is the best in the state.”

    Gathered Chinsegut Hill were Florida’s top K9 units. Coming out on top this year was Osteen and Cross City Correctional Institution.

    “These competition tracks, they lay them a mile and a half through the woods with two 90s,” said Osteen. “They drop four flags and we wait two hours to start them and run them. This year we ran a 16:30 and a 21:00 on both of our tracks.”

    Osteen has been on Cross City’s K9 team for 18 years — serving as K9 sergeant for the last 15 years and overseeing the growth and development of K9s throughout the years.

    “We got K9 Thunder over here on this side,” Osteen said, pointing to one of his team’s dogs. “He’s 7 years old. We’ve got K9 Cy right here — he’s won three competitions in a row. He’s 3 years old. So we got some really good dogs. We train them from puppies right on up to dogs.”

    It’s a job made possible thanks to both state and public funding.

    “We do get a lot of donations from Corrections Foundation and other things,” said Danny Rummel, special teams coordinator for the Florida Department of Corrections. “There is a lot of equipment — GPS tracking collars and just all the equipment they use to keep them safe in the woods and to help them track down children, women, elderly or suspects if necessary.”

    While the actual tracking during the event may only take minutes, Osteen said it takes countless hours of patience to prepare.

    “We train on eight hours a day,” says Osteen. “I mean, I love my job. I love working with the dogs out in the woods, training. I just love it.”

    He said the training is important, because when a situation arises, whether it be tracking escaped inmates or lost individuals, the K9 crew is ready to handle the job.

    “It’s the best job in the world,” Osteen said. “I love my job with the K9. I started out inside for seven years and promoted up out to K9 sergeant, and it’s just amazing. Best job there is.”

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Wesley Chapel prep cook going above and beyond at work despite disabilities

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    WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — October is Disability Employment Awareness Month and to commemorate the month, we’re highlighting some talented workers here across the Tampa Bay area.

    What You Need To Know

    • A Wesley Chapel prep cook is going above and beyond at work despite his disabilities

    • Jeremy Ross knew at a young age he wanted to work in the food industry and an opportunity knocked thanks, in part, to a disability employment service called ‘employU’

    • ’employU’ is a non-profit, disability employment service, helping those with disabilities get in the workforce by offering employability training to make sure clients are job-ready


    One employee is making a difference in the culinary industry in Pasco County.

    For Jeremy Ross, the kitchen is where he is most comfortable.

    “My slogan is trust and respect,” says Ross. “I just want a good work environment.”

    For the last seven months, Ross has been working as a prep cook at Bubba’s 33 in Wesley Chapel. Chopping up lettuce and other varieties of vegetables. 

    “It’s good working for them. I can finally be myself when I’m working.”

    Ross has ADHD and an intellectual impairment. But just because he has a disability, it doesn’t mean his work is impaired. 

    “He has a harder time learning how to do tasks,” says Catalina Fernandez, Jeremy’s mom. “More of your school life things like reading and math and things like that were always more difficult for him to process because of his disability.”

    Ross learned of his love for the culinary arts in a special program in high school. A five-year culinary program at the Vaughn Occupational High School in Chicago.

    “A high school that he went to in Chicago had a culinary program for our students, all of which were students with disabilities,” said Fernandez. “And he loved it.”

    That passion for working with food followed Ross when he and his family moved to the Tampa Bay area. He found work at a local restaurant until they closed. But then an opportunity knocked at Bubba’s. Ross found the opportunity thanks to a disability employment service called ‘employU.’

    “From the very beginning, we knew that we would hire him and bring him on just because he really grasped what he was doing right away,” said Abby Fletcher, manager at Bubba’s 33 in Wesley Chapel. “He worked really well with the management team and the other employees who were working cold prep.”

    And now Ross can continue his pursuing his passion and love for cooking.

    “It feels really good for me to do that because I always go to my serious work because I always have to focus on my work,” said Ross. “I’m going to do the best I can.”

    Showing how nothing is holding him back.

    ’employU’ is a non-profit, disability employment service based in the Orlando area. Helping those with disabilities get in the workforce by offering employability training to make sure clients are job-ready. You can learn more about their adult employment services online here.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • New census report shows Pasco County among Florida’s fastest growing communities

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A new census report shows a significant population increase in Pasco County.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County is one of the fastest growing counties in the state of Florida

    • A new report from the U.S. Census Bureau shows Pasco County has seen a more than 15% increase in population within the last five years
    • New housing, such as apartments and homes, are evidence of the growing population trend as well as new traffic patterns around areas like Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills
    • This year, the city of Zephyrhills has seen a population of just under 20,000 people, which is a near 3,000 increase from just five years ago


    According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Pasco County has seen a more than 15% increase in population within the last five years, making it one of the fastest growing counties in the state of Florida.

    “We’re attracting young professionals,” Hope Kennedy, President & CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, said. “We’re attracting start-ups, innovation, life sciences. We’ve got it all here in Pasco.”

    Along State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, you’ll find an assortment of housing. From new apartments to new homes, this is part of the population boom in Pasco County.

    “We’ve seen extreme growth over the last three to five years,” Kennedy said. “The census reports are coming out with that information- I believe it was around 15%. But what’s more important is that we’re growing in quality, just not in quantity of people.”

    She has witnessed first-hand the increase in traffic throughout Pasco County, both on the road and in housing, Kennedy said.

    “There’s a lot of factors attracting people here to Pasco,” she said. “It’s the geography where we’re at proximity, but it’s also that we’ve built a quality community here in this area. And I say it’s the secret sauce. It’s a very diverse community. It’s where people want to live, work and invest their money.”

    Just about 20 miles away, a similar view can be seen in Zephyrhills.

    “We’re coming in for the estimates for 2025 just shy of 20,000 people,” Rodney Corriveau, principal planner for the City of Zephyrhills., said. “Now rewind five years ago, we were around 17,000 people. So that’s an astronomically high rate of people to be moving into our city.”

    Two years ago, a moratorium was put in place, putting a pause on all new housing developments throughout the city. While that may still be in effect, proper planning for growth has not stopped under city staff like Corriveau.

    “The challenge is to make sure we fit and accommodate all the people moving here, the residential component with the industrial component and making sure that those don’t conflict,” Corriveau said. “We want to make sure that people, when they’re living adjacent to some of the commercial and industrial areas, that we buffer those for sound and visual effects and things like that.”

    This is crucial to maintaining growth, Kennedy said.

    “We’re at 650,000 now. We’re most certainly going to be at a million,” she said. “It’s really important that as the chamber and the business community together, we’re thinking ten years down the road so that when we’re making decisions and we’re planning our future, we have growth in mind.”

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • New housing on the way as Citrus County continues to see population growth

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — New housing is on its way throughout Citrus County.

    At least 10 major housing developments are currently in the works, with subdivisions, apartments and residential phases planned for areas like Homosassa, Lecanto and Crystal River. The tourist destination is becoming a place to call home.

    What You Need To Know

    • New housing is being planned for areas throughout Citrus County

    • At least 10 major housing developments are currently in the works, with subdivisions, apartments and residential phases planned for areas like Homosassa, Lecanto and Crystal River
    • One of those areas is off of Gulf to Lake Highway


    Josh and Ashlyn Reynolds have already seen growth over time.

    Together, they are the proud owners of Baymens, located in downtown Crystal River. Though their store may only be three months old, their roots to the area go much deeper.

    “It is definitely growing here, but it’s still home,” said Josh.

    Josh has called the area home his whole life, seeing firsthand the amount of growth Crystal River and Citrus County have seen throughout the years. And he may witness more to come, with housing developments planned for the near future.

    “It’s good to see a lot more people in the area, especially for small businesses like this,” he said. “We are having a lot more foot traffic, as well as the kayak company. We do have more people wanting to go on the water. It’s beautiful out there.”

    Subdivisions and apartments are planned in areas like one off of Gulf to Lake Highway.

    “You’ve seen a lot of interest from area developers that have come in and gotten their subdivisions platted,” said Josh Wooten, CEO of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce.

    According to the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce, in recent years, Crystal River has seen steady growth in population. What is known as the “Manatee Capital of the World” is becoming an area to call home.

    “I think it started post-COVID of people looking for refuge in Florida,” Wooten said. “And then that, coupled with the opening of the Suncoast Parkway, the State Road 44, now County Road 486. We’ve definitely noticed an influx of new residents.”

    It’s something the Josh and Ashlyn Reynolds realized before opening up shop.

    “It’s been a good thing, but it’s bittersweet,” Josh said. “You have more people, which means you have more eyes on the community and more people that want to come back and travelers. But also you just have to balance it with is it damaging our ecosystem, or is it damaging our small-town vibe.”

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County hosting series of town hall meetings on homelessness

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — It has been a growing issue throughout the country and one that hits close to Tampa Bay.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County will host a series of town hall meetings discussing homelessness

    • The local government is asking to hear from residents to find out how homelessness is impacting neighborhoods, communities and businesses
    • Two town hall meetings will take place, starting Tuesday night at the West Pasco Government Center


    Homelessness has become a cause for discussion, even in Pasco County. The local government is asking to hear from residents to help reduce the trend in a series of town halls with the first taking place Tuesday night.

    Pasco County says they want to find out how homelessness is impacting neighborhoods, communities and businesses. But it all starts with hearing from residents. That’s the reason behind this series of town hall meetings the county will host; first tonight and again next Tuesday.

    The Board of County Commissioners is working on their 2025-2030 strategic plan and the goal is to make homelessness rare, brief and non-existent. The county says they want to hear which services and facilities are working and which of those services still need some work. Residents are invited to either attend in-person or fill out an online survey.

    “I hope to see education around the topic of homelessness so that we can create a response external to county government, local county government, but all-inclusive with our citizens, our not-for-profits, our public safety sector,” says Brian Hobin, Pasco County Director of Community Services. “It needs to be an all-hands-on-deck response for us to be able to make a difference in homelessness.”

    And Hobin says Pasco County has already opened what they call a low barrier shelter through Pasco Hope. They will be in attendance for tonight’s meeting.

    The first town hall takes place tonight at the West Pasco Government Center in the boardroom starting at 5:30 p.m. Another town hall is scheduled for next Tuesday, Sept. 30, at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center at 5:30 p.m.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • First courthouse facility dog for Circuit 6 offers comfort, support for children

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — A new, and furry, face in the Circuit Six courthouse is helping make children feel a little more comfortable in the courtroom.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polar is the first official courthouse facility dog for both the Circuit Six court and Hero To A Child, offering comfort and support in what can be an otherwise intimidating setting

    • His job is to provide emotional support to children who have to go through such things as medical examinations, forensic interviews and testify in the courtroom
    • Polar was trained by a professional puppy raiser for the first year and a half of his life, also taking part in Duke University’s canine cognition program


    Polar is the first official courthouse facility dog for both the Circuit Six court and Hero To A Child, offering comfort and support in what can be an otherwise intimidating setting.

    “My biggest job for him is, actually, I’m his chauffeur,” said Tammie McQueeney, program coordinator and dog handler for Hero To A Child. “I make sure he gets to where he needs to be and that he’s taken care of appropriately.”

    Together, they make a pretty formidable team.

    “He has these trading cards, which is the front side of the big picture that you just took,” says McQueeney. “But the kids get these when they meet him.”

    Polar isn’t just any ordinary dog.

    “His job is to provide emotional support to children who have to go through such things as medical examinations, forensic interviews and — God forbid — they have to sit in the courthouse across from maybe their abuser and testify,” said McQueeney. “He’s there to provide emotional support for those children and impact is immediate.”

    The training both Polar and McQueeney went through is quite extensive. He was trained by a professional puppy raiser for the first year and a half of his life. Polar also took part in Duke University’s canine cognition program.

    “They teach him the basics,” she said. “They give him exposure to pretty much as much as they can in the world around him because, obviously, these dogs have to be bombproof. So the more they do, the better they are. And then in a year and a half, they go back to an official Canine Companions campus where they have six months of formal, in-depth service dog training.”

    McQueeney and Polar graduated from the program in November. Though still fresh to his new role, the impact Polar has had, McQueeney said, has been immediate.

    “He knows who needs him most. Whoever in the room seems to be carrying the most stress at that point in time, he will go straight to them and just lay down and put his head on their lap, and hang out and let them pet him and make them feel better.”

    Being the first of his kind, Polar may pave the way for other aspiring canines to join him in the future.

    “We have so many requests and so much community support that one team can’t handle it all,” McQueeney said. “So we could, potentially, bring in another handler and dog and serve even more children because both Pinellas and Pasco counties are pretty big. And there’s a lot of kids that need his help.”

    It’s all helping provide comfort with a wag of the tail and one big smile.

    McQueeney said Polar works solely on donations and community partnerships. Learn more about supporting Polar and his work.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Crystal River businesses excited over prospect of added tourist traffic

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A new expansion of the Suncoast Parkway has opened.

    What You Need To Know

    • The second part in a three-phase project expanding the Suncoast Parkway from Tampa to Crystal River has opened

    • With more traffic passing through, the expansion has local businesses excited for what it may do for the local economy
    • Those with Discover Crystal River say having the newly expanded road will help bring more traffic to the city, which saw a record-breaking 1.6 million visitors this year
    • The third and final phase of the Suncoast Parkway will extend the road 5.5 miles north to County Road 495 in Crystal River


    It’s just the second part in a three-phase project expanding the toll road from Tampa through Citrus County. With more traffic passing through, the expansion has local businesses excited for what it may do for the local economy.

    Inside his store, Paddletail Waterfront Adventures, managing director Paul Cross clears out the shop.

    “We are the state-of-the-art dive shop in this area,” said Cross.

    For years, the business has served as a staple in Crystal River, offering kayak rentals, manatee encounters, as well as local lodging. A business, like many in the area, that thrives on tourism.

    “The time frame after Christmas until the 3rd or 4th of the year in January is a phenomenal business for us,” said Cross. “We really look forward to being in the shop when manatee season kicks off and we look forward to a great season.”

    It’s this tourism that has allowed Paddletail to expand into a brand-new building.

    “We’re excited about being in a location that people will walk by going to the tiki bar, going to the pool area, using the boat ramp,” said Cross. “They’re going to see us. We’re going to be front and center, not to mention the fact that we’re right on the water. We can see the boats coming and going. Accessibility to us will be great.”

    And more visitors may soon be on their way with the recent expansion of the Suncoast Parkway, expanding through Crystal River.

    “We’re really excited about it,” said tourism director Auvis Cole for Discover Crystal River. “I mean, for us, the connectivity to Tampa being an hour away right now, it’s huge for the destination in our continued growth and development.”

    Cole said that having the newly expanded road will help bring more traffic to the city with the hopes of replicating, or even doubling, the numbers they saw this past summer, which was a record-breaking year.

    “We welcomed over 1.6 million visitors to this destination,” said Cole. “A lot of them came through the Suncoast Parkway, of course, through the Tampa market and the Orlando market, which are our biggest market force as well. But from an international standpoint, when they’re flying into TPA, they’re coming right down the Suncoast Parkway.”

    So that area businesses, like Cross’s, may continue to thrive.

    “We have people come in from all over the world — Germany, Denmark — come in here, and then our local drive market (doesn’t) even know it exists,” Cross said. “So come check it out and see what the fuss is about, it’s an unbelievable experience and it’s a great family activity.”

    Putting this slice of Citrus County further on the map.

    The third and final phase of the Suncoast Parkway will extend the road 5.5 miles north to County Road 495 in Crystal River. A completion date is expected by late 2026 or into 2027.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Citrus charter captains seeing added scalloping traffic for Labor Day weekend

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Scallop season in Pasco County got cut short due to contamination in the water.

    But that hasn’t stopped scalloping in other areas along Florida’s coast. In Citrus County, scalloping has been able to continue without pause. Charters are taking advantage of the continued season and what it holds.

    What You Need To Know

    • Scallop season in Pasco County got cut short this year, once again, due to contamination in the water

    • But the shortened season down south has meant an increase in traffic for charters further north, like those at Ozello Keys Marina in Citrus County
    • Having the added traffic, captains say, has been a bonus
    • Scallop season is open until Sept. 24 in Hernando and Citrus counties


    It’s a welcome sound to all who enjoy Florida’s waters: a boat engine firing up. And, readying the boat to head out on the water for Labor Day weekend is a busy period for charter Capt. Gary Bartell and his crew at Ozello Keys Marina.

    “We’ve had one of the best scallop seasons that we’ve seen in a very long time,” Bartell said.

    This comes at a vital time for charters like Bartell’s, and the local economy. The season was cut short in Pasco County due to contaminants in the water for a second year in a row, so people are looking for other options.

    “We can see the effects of it because our books started filling up a lot faster than it normally does,” said Bartell. “Labor Day weekend is, typically, a last-minute booking, and then it gets really crazy busy. Whereas this time there is more planning behind it.”

    The shortened season down south has meant an increase in traffic for charters further north. Like Capt. Teddy Shupe and his Reel Addict Fishing Charters.

    “I have had a lot of people come from that area up here to harvest our scallops, which does increase business for us again and safely,” said Shupe. “You can harvest the scallops and not have to worry about that type of thing.”

    Having the added traffic, Shupe said, has been a bonus.

    “It’s very nice to wake up every day and know, ‘Hey, I’m going to be on the water today,’” he said. “And continue booking trips into the next month and the next month after that.”

    Bartell says they are fully booked for scallop charters this Labor Day weekend. He said they are also getting prepped for grouper season, which begins Sept. 1.

    Scallop season is open until Sept. 24 in Hernando and Citrus counties.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Population boom could soon come to Citrus County with housing demand

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — A population boom could be coming in Citrus County. 

    Earlier this week, commissioners got an overview of how other counties across the state are managing growth. It comes at a time where the demand for housing is at a high in the county.

    What You Need To Know

    • Citrus County may soon see a population boom as county commissioners meet to discuss managing growth

    • Earlier this week, commissioners got an overview of how other counties across the state are managing growth
    • Most recently, areas throughout the county — such as Inverness — have gone through revitalization projects and changes
    • It comes at a time where the demand for housing is at a high in the county


    For Eric Williams, Citrus County is a way of life. He knows this all too well, being the city manager of Inverness. 

    “It is a high quality of life,” Williams said. “It’s a quiet life. The age dynamic is starting to shift and you want to have that diversity. You’re naturally going to have growth in Florida, but I think it comes with a certain cost.”

    Under his lead, the city has seen a variety of upgrades and changes throughout the years, which most recently includes a revitalization of the old historic Citrus County Courthouse.

    There are countless projects that have been designed with the intent of reaching a larger audience in mind — in visitors and those who call it “home.”

    “You also have infrastructure that comes with things like public safety and park systems,” said Williams. “Staying ahead of that and being able to understand what’s coming to you. That’s a big challenge. But if you get it right, or close to right, it really helps get development across the line.”

    “The big hammer that we have is affordability,” said Judy McCoy, a realtor for Century 21 in Inverness.

    She says the housing market in Citrus County has seen a sizable increase within the last five years.

    “You are living in Florida and you are paying a reasonable price,” says McCoy. “Everything is a little bit lower price than it is, you know, in the bigger cities and on the coast.”

    It’s a positive trend that may continue as more people become familiar with the area.

    “This graph is something that I think every home buyer and home seller has lived since the COVID times because what you see here was a ten-year correction in Citrus County,” said McCoy. “We have always been very affordable, probably one of the most affordable, beautiful places in Florida.”

    Something, Williams says, the city and county are prepared for.

    “What I hope to see in my time and plan on forever having a home here, is that that continues to be a platform where growth can be accepted in a measured way but, eventually, also the diversity in the economy is stabilized to the point that there’s a good mix of working class opportunities as well as that for our retirement folks.”

    It’s a place where people of all walks of life can continue to live.

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  • Efforts underway to save Chassahowitzka River Campground from potential sale

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    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A popular campground in Citrus County will be closing this fall.

    The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) will assess hurricane damage at the Chassahowitzka River Campground and could recommend selling the property.

    Efforts are underway to help save the campground from being sold.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Chassahowitzka River Campground will be closing Oct. 1 as the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) evaluates hurricane damage

    • According to SWFWMD, the campground saw a lot of damage from last year’s storms and may put the campground up for sale
    • But locals disagree with any sale, with an online petition going around, fighting against the sale of the campground
    • A protest is planned on Sept. 6 at the Publix parking lot at 9525 S. Suncoast Blvd. in Homosassa


    Standing under the greenery of the Chassahowitzka River Campground, Ryan McGovern breathes in the fresh air.

    “It’s pristine land, it’s beautiful, I wouldn’t want to see it go any other way,” he said. “I’ve been bringing my kids here since they were 5 years old, so probably about the last decade-and-a-half or so, they have learned to love nature coming out here. It gets them off of their electronic devices, and it shows them real old school Florida.”

    McGovern is taking in the view with little extra time. That’s because the campground will be closing Oct. 1, as SWFWMD estimates hurricane damage.

    “It made me very emotional,” McGovern said. “I was upset, I was mad. That morning, as soon as I saw that, I created the first petition. I got together with some other folks through social media. We’ve grown a group, and we’re moving forward with it.”

    According to SWFWMD, the campground saw a lot of damage from last year’s storms. The cost to restore the campground, the district says, is not an effective way to use taxpayer dollars with a potential sale on the horizon.

    “We would like to see it kept open,” said Elaine Moore, administrator for the campground. “We don’t mind whether we lease it through SWFWMD or the county, we’ve done both before, and we have worked it out. We would just like to see it stay open and be able to fulfill all the reservations that we have on the books.”

    But McGovern disagrees with any sale. It’s why he’s started an online petition, fighting against the sale of the campground. Plus, he has another petition.

    “We need to make sure this land is saved going forward,” he said.

    Already, his petitions have garnered more than 4,000 signatures from people who want to see the campground remain open, he says.

    “It just shows that people do not want development,” said McGovern. “They don’t want this land sold to the highest bidder. They don’t want corporate interests coming in here and ruining our Florida, and we need to keep it that way for our kids and their kids to enjoy for future generations.”

    So they too can enjoy these serene views.

    McGovern said they will be holding a protest on Sept. 6 in the Publix parking lot at 9525 S. Suncoast Blvd. from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. He says they will also be in attendance at next Tuesday’s Water Management meeting.

    Meanwhile, the parking area and boat ramp will remain open and under the control of Citrus County.

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  • Businesses in downtown New Port Richey remain open amid makeover

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Construction has begun on a popular area within downtown New Port Richey.

    What You Need To Know

    • Construction on Nebraska Avenue has begun, reshaping the popular area into the Railroad Square Improvement Project

    • As construction takes shape, access to a few local businesses is limited, but business owners want you to know that they are still open

    • Part of the project will see overhead service lines go underground, along with improvements to both hardscape and landscape

    • The Railroad Square Improvement Project is currently in phase one of construction, with total construction expected to be completed by March 2026


    It’s part of the Railroad Square Improvement Project, which will redesign portions of Nebraska Avenue in downtown. As construction takes shape, access to a few local businesses is limited. But business owners want people to know that they are still open.

    Down the neatly organized aisles of Wright’s Natural Market, owner Jeff Wright is doing what he loves best.

    “We are New Port Richey’s neighborhood grocery store,” says Wright.

    For more than 30 years, Wright’s Natural Market has been a staple of New Port Richey.

    “We were out on US-19 for 23 years, and so when the opportunity came, we wanted to be downtown with more foot traffic,” said Wright. “So we think this is a great location.”

    The market backs up to Nebraska Avenue, which is going through a bit of a makeover.

    “I think it’s just another step in the revitalization that the city has been working on that started with Sims Park and down Grand, where the new fire station is going,” said Wright. “I think that it’s just another step … to make it more pedestrian friendly and more event friendly.”

    Railroad Square is a $4.2 million investment, part of the city’s Community Redevelopment Authority. But the project is making it a little tight for people trying to get to nearby businesses.

    “You can see it makes it difficult for pedestrians to get to some of the businesses and to walk down the street,” said Wright, while pointing out some of the more restricted areas. “We just need people to have some patience, work together and make room for each other.”

    Part of the project will see overhead service lines go underground. Along with improvements to both hardscape and landscape, it will make for a more attractive space for visitors.

    “It sets a new standard for New Port Richey in terms of the amenities that we’ll be offering,” said City Manager Debbie Manns. “People have started to notice our downtown, but it isn’t a place as much as it should be that people just go to on their own.”

    Shining a brighter light on the city’s businesses in time.

    “I think it’s going to be very good in the long term,” said Wright. “It’s going to help activate the space and going to benefit all of the businesses that are on this block, as well as others and nonprofits that want to do events or put on events downtown. It gives them more space to do that.”

    The Railroad Square Improvement Project is currently in phase one of construction. Total construction is expected to be completed by March of next year.

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  • Dade City residents fighting to save centuries-old grand oak tree from removal

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    DADE CITY, Fla. — The fight to save a centuries-old tree is heating up.

    The roughly 200-year-old grand oak tree sits outside the Pasco County Courthouse. County officials slated the tree for removal, saying it’s threatening a World War II memorial that sits beneath it, but some residents are pushing back.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dade City residents are pushing back to save a centuries-old tree outside the Pasco County Courthouse

    • County officials have slated the 200-year-old tree for removal, saying it’s threatening a World War II memorial that sits beneath it
    • In the tree’s place, commissioners plan to re-landscape the lawn and plant 11 sabal palms
    • A county spokesperson said the board has voted for a more rigorous and detailed arborist inspection, which is expected to be completed later this month


    “This tree was standing here with roots in the ground when this was England, when this was Spain, and then soon became the United States,” said Kevin Taggerty, who created the Dade City Life Facebook page. “We’re talking before the Declaration of Independence was signed.”

    The tree is now being considered for removal by the Board of County Commissioners.

    “They said that it had to be removed because it was unhealthy and that it’s a threat to the bandstand,” said Taggerty.

    Taggerty is a local resident and, through his Facebook page, has rallied other residents to help save the tree.

    “This tree is the heart of our city,” Taggerty said. “It’s an iconic tree right here in front of our courthouse. If they remove it, it’s going to take a lot of the heart with it.”

    Under the tree’s limbs sits a World War II memorial. Pasco County officials have said the tree is a threat to that piece of history. But Taggerty and others argue a recent arborist report refutes those claims.

    “It broke my heart into a million pieces because it is such a grand tree, and it is right in the center of town,” said Karen Menard, a member of the Dade City Garden Club. “And to remove it will create a huge void.”

    “Once we found out about the tree removal, we pulled the documents that were submitted,” Taggerty said. “We found out that they used a 10-year-old arborist report, and that arborist did not even say to remove the tree.”

    In the tree’s place, commissioners plan to re-landscape the lawn and plant 11 sabal palms. A move, Taggerty believes is unnecessary. Instead, he’d like to see the city stand by its nickname.

    “We are ‘Tree City, U.S.A.’ here in Dade City, and we want to keep this look of our beautiful oaks here,” Taggerty said. “We don’t want to see another oak tree fall.”

    Pasco County officials declined to respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson with the county, however, did say the board has voted for a more rigorous and detailed arborist inspection that will guide future actions. The inspection is expected to be completed later this month.

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  • Pasco County homeowners still feeling effects of heavy rainfall from weekend

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Heavy rainfall on Friday left roads like U.S. 19 and Moog Road flooded and nearly impassable.

    What You Need To Know

    • Areas throughout Tampa Bay saw heavy rainfall over the weekend, flooding major roadways

    • Murrow Street in New Port Richey was submerged underwater, with cars seen having a difficult time cutting through the murky depths
    • Residents like Anthony Argentino felt the effects of the floodwaters, taking pictures and video of the event
    • Pasco County says it has developed a comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan, a long-term strategy designed to reduce flooding risks and enhance drainage in areas that experience repeated flooding


    The effect of that rainfall is still being felt by local residents.

    “This is right in the front of the house,” said Anthony Argentino, swiping through photos on his phone that he took over the weekend.

    “Within 15 minutes or so, the water started piling up from the street into the driveway,” said Argentino. “It didn’t stop for about two hours. And what should have been a regular summer rainstorm was a flood right in the middle of the street, which we call ‘Lake Murrow.’”

    The road in front of Argentino’s home, Murrow Street, was submerged underwater. Cars could be seen having a difficult time cutting through the murky depths. Argentino has been living in his New Port Richey home since 2013. Each year, he says, has gotten worse than the last.

    “The water always piles up in the road all rainy season,” Argentino said. “Rain comes into people’s houses, back rooms get flooded, and sometimes when we get regular storms they’re worse than hurricanes are.”

    At the end of Murrow Street, you can see that some of that rainwater is still there, along with orange traffic barriers.

    “If we had to pack up for hurricanes in the past, now we’re really going to have to do it because the water is rising higher every year,” Argentino said. “You’ve got to worry about water in the house, in the garage, in the bedrooms, and it’s just a mess to clean up.”

    One solution Argentino said he’d like is improvements to local storm drains.

    “We really try and do everything we can to keep the garbage out of the roads, keep the drains clear,” said Argentino. “And water companies come by looking at the drains every once in a while, and they don’t do anything. We see some roads under construction and them digging up drains, but it seems like nothing they do is working.”

    So that when the next rainfall does arrive, roads and homes stay dry.

    Pasco County officials responded to the flooding and neighbors’ concerns in a statement. It says in part:

    “Pasco County is aware of the localized flooding that occurred over the weekend following heavy rainfall in the New Port Richey area… We have developed a comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan, a long-term strategy designed to reduce flooding risks and enhance drainage in areas that experience repeated flooding.”

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  • Health care tax credit that helps fuel Florida’s small businesses is going away

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — A health care tax credit that helps fuel Florida’s small businesses is going away.

    What You Need To Know

    • Enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies will expire this year, putting health insurance at risk for many Floridians



    • The expiration is affecting self-employed workers at a Citrus County salon, along with millions of other self-employed workers

    • Those tax premium credits make insurance more affordable for those with coverage under the Affordable Care Act

    • An estimated 2 million Floridians will lose their health insurance coverage when those enhanced tax credits expire at the end of this year




    Enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies will be expiring this year, putting health insurance at risk for many Floridians. The expiration is affecting self-employed workers at a Citrus County salon.

    On the second floor of Tangles Hair Salon & Day Spa, Tara McVicker does what she knows best.

    “I get to nurture people,” McVicker said. “I get to take care of people. It’s not just doing skin care, it’s learning who these people are and their lifestyle.”

    McVicker is an esthetician, having worked at the salon since 2020. Being self-employed means her health insurance is through the Affordable Care Act.

    “To be able to have affordable insurance is really nothing less than a miracle,” McVicker said. “For us, to provide insurance for ourselves and our family at an affordable cost is something that gives us freedom to expand and not have that monkey on your back, worrying about getting sick.”

    But two years into being enrolled, McVicker was diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing three major surgeries. Her insurance meant a lot.

    “Had I not had the health insurance that I had, I really don’t know what I would have done, because I was already having to take so much more time off from work that I anticipated,” she said.

    Those tax premium credits made her insurance more affordable, as they do for many others like McVicker.

    Sherry Brown is a nail technician working out of the salon. She said she relies on her coverage for prescriptions related to orthopedic issues.

    “I think when they take those away, I don’t believe that I’ll be able to afford the prices of insurance,” said Brown. “I do have orthopedic issues and see a doctor for that. I’m on a couple of prescriptions that I probably won’t be able to afford so, that being said, yeah, we’re a little concerned about it.”

    As for what they will do next, McVicker said she will have to make cutbacks. Hoping in the meantime, her coverage stays.

    “All of these people that are hustling to make a buck on their own merit and run their business, they’re proud of being American,” McVicker said. “But they just need a little bit of help with these tax premiums so they can afford coverage for themselves and their family.”

    While continuing to do the work she loves and sticking through with her family.

    “This is what we do here — we’re like family with all of our clients,” she said.

    It is estimated that 2 million Floridians will lose their health insurance coverage when those enhanced tax credits expire. Those subsidies are set to expire at the end of this year.

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  • Traveling exhibit showcasing life, legacy of Vincent Van Gogh makes way to Tampa

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A traveling exhibit is bringing the artwork of Vincent Van Gogh to life.

    What You Need To Know

    • A traveling exhibit highlighting the life, artwork and legacy of Vincent Van Gogh has arrived to Tampa

    • “Van Gogh— The Immersive Experience” has already welcomed millions of visitors worldwide, showcasing Van Gogh’s work in new and unique ways
    • Visitors take a journey through Van Gogh’s paintings, stepping through his most famous works from The Sunflower Field to The Starry Night
    • The exhibit will be open Wednesday, July 23, and will remain in Tampa through the rest of summer


    It’s called “Van Gogh — The Immersive Experience” and highlights the life, artwork and legacy of the famous artist.

    “It is an incredible deep-dive using immersive technologies into the world of Vincent Van Gogh,” said John Zaller, Chief Creative Officer for Van Gogh — The Immersive Experience.

    On display in a warehouse space off Dale Mabry Highway stands a monument to one of the world’s most iconic artists. An exhibit showcasing the life and legacy of Vincent Van Gogh.

    “We’re seeing objects that are relatable, but objects that have this emotional power to them that connect with us in very moving ways,” said Zaller.

    The traveling exhibit has already welcomed millions of visitors worldwide, showcasing Van Gogh’s work in new and unique ways.

    “Here, in this wonderful meditative space, you can see those dozens of paintings come to life,” says Zaller. “And it’s a great way to tell the story of Van Gogh’s technique and his approach.”

    The exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Van Gogh’s paintings, both mentally and physically, allowing anyone the chance to step through his most famous works.

    From The Sunflower Field to The Starry Night.

    “People spend hours in here just being enveloped in the works of the artist,” said Zaller.

    There is also a virtual reality experience, where visitors can put on a pair of VR goggles, taking a trip through Van Gogh’s world and allowing an even more enchanting journey.

    “It really is that voice of Van Gogh, that work of Van Gogh, that brings people in,” Zaller said. “But, then what we find is that those who haven’t spent a lot of time thinking about art are now thinking about art. They start to patronize their museums, they start to study art more and the artist within them awakens.”

    Bringing a fresh approach to the world of Van Gogh. 

    ‘Van Gogh — The Immersive Experience’ will be open starting Wednesday, July 23. The exhibit will remain in Tampa through the rest of summer.

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  • New Boater Freedom Act creating waves amongst local captains

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    OZELLO, Fla. — A new Florida law is raising the bar that police have to clear in order to search boats in waters across the state.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Boater Freedom Act was signed into law by the governor earlier this month, prohibiting FWC and local law enforcement from pulling over and boarding a boat without probable cause

    • While some boaters see this new law as a win, others say those vessel searches can serve as a means to catch illegal activity

    • Some captains also see the law as a setback when it comes to enforcing speed zones

    • The bill will direct FWC to work with tax collectors to proactively provide a “Florida Freedom Boater” decal at registration


    The Boater Freedom Act was signed into law by the Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this month. The law prohibits FWC and local law enforcement from pulling over and boarding a boat without probable cause.

    While some boaters see this new law as a win, others say those vessel searches can help to catch illegal activity. Meaning not all boating captains are on board with the new law.

    Captain Carlos Gutierrez has been fishing the waters near Ozello Keys Marina for more than 10 years and says the new Boater Freedom Act may change what he sees on the water.

    “It’s just a tough position to be in where you want the rules to be followed,” said Gutierrez. “But FWC and the sheriff, they get put in a very difficult position when this act is passed because now, without probable cause, you’re not going to be able to just randomly check people.”

    The main component of the law will stop random vessel checks and searches, performed by the FWC and local law enforcement.

    “Do I foresee some people taking advantage of the situation?” says Gutierrez. “Absolutely. And that could be a detriment to certain species of fish, vegetation, or sponges that are commercially or recreationally harvested.”

    Elsewhere at the marina, Kevin Dubicki says he agrees with Gutierrez, believing the new law is a safety concern.

    “I think this new law that’s passed is really going to allow people to get away with a lot more,” said Dubicki. “They think that they can’t board my boat anymore, they can’t check my fish anymore because they have not seen me for probable cause for committing a crime.”

    As for what these captains will do now, Gutierrez says he will continue best practices. Following boating rules and staying safe.

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  • Crystal River trademarks as ‘Manatee Capital of the World’

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A popular Citrus County business is expanding its operation. 

    Paddletail Waterfront Adventures has called Crystal River “home” for close to five years.

    The shop is just one example of how businesses are thriving in a growing tourism industry in what’s known as the “Manatee Capital of the World.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Crystal River business leaders are celebrating their trademarking of the “Manatee Capital of the World,” unveiled at the monthly Partners in Tourism event

    • Paddletail Waterfront Adventures is expanding its operation, with a brand-new state-of-the-art facility and hotel lodging
    • According to Discover Crystal River, an impact visitor report for 2024 found that 1.7 million visitors spent close to $526 million throughout Citrus County
    • The new Paddletail facility is expected to open during the second week in July


    Excitement is mounting in Crystal River. Business leaders are celebrating their trademarking of the “Manatee Capital of the World,” which was unveiled at the monthly Partners in Tourism event.

    “The name of the game here, for us, is to elevate that service of a manatee tour,” said Paul Cross, managing partner at Paddletail Waterfront Adventures.

    Cross knows that all too well. The business has a brand-new state-of-the-art facility and a hotel lodge on the way.

    “We’re the ‘Manatee Capital of the World,’” says Cross. “We’ve been the ‘Manatee Capital of the World’ for a long period of time, but it’s just really starting to feel that that is the case. Like the word is out there. People from all over the world are coming here.”

    And it’s not only Cross who’s noticing. Other business owners and residents have paid attention.

    “Whether it’s staycations, vacations — people are coming from Tampa or Orlando or as far as from New York,” said Auvis Cole, tourism director for Discover Crystal River.

    Cole says they just finished an impact visitor report for 2024, finding that the 1.7 million visitors spent close to $526 million throughout Citrus County.

    “Almost 700,000 overnights, quite almost over a little bit over a million for day trippers,” Cole said. “And what it’s showing all the businesses, the entrepreneurs and the local businesses — there’s plenty of opportunity.”

    Opportunity that Cross has seen and decided to take. Expanding his business, beyond the manatee tours.

    “We try to go for quality over the quantity, right?” said Cross. “And that’s what this building is about — it’s about quality. I would much rather take 100 people than 300 people if I can give them the quality that they deserve on a tour. And that’s what our mission is here.”

    While his operation has changed, the mission stays the same. A mission that he owes, Cross says, to the visitors of Crystal River.

    “Just give that once in a lifetime experience to every customer that walks in our door,” said Cross. “We want to make sure that they leave with that five-star experience that we’re all striving for. So that would be the ultimate goal — to make sure our rooms are full and our guests are leaving with a satisfied feeling.”

    It’s so that visitors keep returning to the “Manatee Capital of the World.” Cross says he plans to open the new Paddletail facility during the second week in July — just in time for scallop season.

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  • Bay scallop season gets underway in Citrus, Hernando counties

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — July 1 marked the official start to bay scallop season in Hernando and Citrus counties.

    What You Need To Know

    • Today was the official start to bay scallop season in Hernando, Citrus and Levy counties

    • The first day of the season brought out some first-time scallopers, like one family visiting from Orlando

    • Fishing charter captains are expecting a bountiful scalloping season due to the scalloping sorter tool, an initiative that actually started just last year

    • Bay Scallop season runs through Sept. 24 in Citrus, Hernando and Levy counties


    At the end of Pete’s Pier, some of the first batch of freshly caught scallops have made it ashore. This time of year plays an important role in the local economy.

    “This year, it looks really great out there,” said Captain Kim Stibbs, owner of Salty Siren Tours and Charters. “Last year it was hit or miss, but this year people are doing really, really well. We came back in with five gallons and these guys were first-time scallopers.”

    Stibbs and her husband have been running their business for three years. Both are veterans, and they wanted to do something they enjoyed together.

    The first day of the season even brought out some first-time scallopers. Like the Rinow family, visiting from Orlando. (Kim Stibbs)

    “We wanted to do something a little bit different,” she said. “We wanted to have something a little bit more boutique. We only take six people to a tour. Our boats are heated, one of our vessels has a restroom. We have a Keurig on board, so we wanted something a little smaller and more intimate. I feel like that’s much better for the manatees and much better for our customers.”

    The first day of the season even brought out some first-time scallopers. Like the Rinow family, visiting from Orlando.

    “The second location we got to was just awesome,” said Mike Rinow, first-time scalloper visiting from Orlando. “I mean, picking them up and I like how they swim- it’s cool!”

    One of the main reasons why fishing charter captains are expecting such a bountiful scalloping season is the scalloping sorter tool, an initiative that actually started just last year.

    According to Florida Sea Grant, the tool “helps harvesters keep the larger, meatier scallops and to throw back smaller ones to allow those scallops to grow and spawn.”

    “Using the scallop sorters UF/IFAS gives out — it tells you the exact size they should be and if they’re too small, you throw them back,” said Stibbs. “But everybody we’ve talked to- all the other charter captains- everybody’s having a great harvest this year. They’re plentiful. And as long as we don’t over fish them and we stick to those sizes and size limits, we’re going to be great.”

    And with a rough couple of years of hurricanes like Idalia, Helene and Milton, Stibbs says the positive scalloping season outlook is a welcome change.

    “This whole community is very dependent upon the bay and what the bay provides and what the gulf provides,” Stibbs said. “There’s a lot of fishing captains, a lot of charter captains. And I think it’s something unique that really, there’s not a lot of places you can offer this.”

    Bay scallop season runs through Sept. 24 in Citrus, Hernando and Levy counties. The season starts in Pasco County on July 10.

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  • Camp hosted by Inverness business helping students prepare for life after school

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — A Citrus County business is offering a free engineering camp to students.

    What You Need To Know

    • A week-long summer engineering camp is helping teach Citrus County High School students important life

    • From changing a tire, to building a toolbox; the skills these students are learning are wide-ranging
    • It’s providing these students with a sense of identity, learning about themselves along the way and helping them prepare for life after high school


    Though lasting only a week, the camp is teaching them important life skills. It’s bringing a sense of meaning and purpose to both students and teachers.

    Under the cool shade of this garage, Citrus County High School students are getting their hands dirty. Working hard and learning a few life skills in the process. 

    “These are good skills to have and you can use these as you move forward in life,” says Tim Herndon, owner of Tim Herndon Plumbing.

    From changing a tire, to building a toolbox, the skills these students are learning are wide-ranging. It’s part of the school district’s summer engineering camp. A week-long program dedicated to working on machinery and life skills. All under the watchful eye of Herndon, who owns the business where the camp is held.

    “Not only do we build these things, but we repair vehicles,” said Tim Herndon. “We have repaired small engines this week. Matter of fact, we put an old go-cart together. Got it running, and these boys were so excited when they got to fire up that engine.”

    One of those students is rising senior Gabriel Carey. A first-year camper, Carey says his interest is in the automotive industry. What he’s learning here, he says, will help prepare him for that path.

    “All of this isn’t taught in school unless you’re in a special academy,” said Carey. “Like the construction academy, it teaches you how to use a tape measure, different tools and stuff. This teaches you responsibility, work ethic, respect. Everything in this academy is not taught in school.”

    The camp is also a chance for students to learn from volunteers. And how they pursued their careers.

    “We are growing students’ ability to work with different people, to work collaboratively to learn hands-on skills, and to really find themselves and what their passions are,” said Dr. Holli Herndon, with Career & Technical Education for Citrus County Schools.

    It’s providing these students with a sense of identity, learning about themselves along the way.

    “If you teach somebody on their level, they can learn anything,” said Herndon. “And if you have patience on teaching either children or adults, then everybody can learn. And that’s our goal here.”

    Preparing these students for life after high school.

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