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Tag: Calvin Lewis

  • New ‘Tides of Time’ art display is showcasing New Port Richey’s history

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A new art experience is highlighting history throughout downtown.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new art experience is being put on display permanently at various locations throughout New Port Richey’s historical district

    • Titled “The Tides of Time,” the art experience is designed to take a look at New Port Richey’s past, highlighting the city’s 100 years and the landmarks that have shaped it
    • Various sculptures have been made as part of the experience and are on display at various buildings, each designed with a special meaning


    It’s called “The Tides of Time,” and this new art expo is a permanent art display in the city’s historical district. It showcases some of New Port Richey’s unique characteristics.

    “(It’s) a lot of research, which is something I really enjoy with my work in general. I enjoy the research and learning more,” said Gillian Harper.

    Flipping through the pages of her sketchbook, Harper reviews her most recent work.

    “We all start from somewhere and, of course, so do cities,” said Harper. “I think that representing history and continuing to grow and show that is a really important aspect for a sense of place and home.”

    Harper is the sculptor behind New Port Richey’s new art display. The experience designed to take a look at New Port Richey’s past, highlighting the city’s 100 years and the landmarks that have shaped it.

    “Is there a bigger word than ‘elated?’” said Harper. “I don’t know. I was very excited. This is a huge opportunity for me. This is my favorite kind of art, making — casting metal — so it was really just exciting.”

    Harper’s sculptures will be a permanent fixture at various buildings throughout downtown, including the Richey Suncoast Theatre.

    “We have the arches here that are at the front of the building,” said Harper, pointing at her sculpture. “Of course, that being from when it was originally built. In here, I tied in the current carpeting that’s actually inside the theatre and, of course, an old school camera.”

    Each piece has a QR code underneath it for viewers to scan with their smartphone to provide a unique audio and visual experience as well as background on their accompanying building.

    “We were looking for a way to honor the city for their 100th anniversary, which was ’24-’25,” said Beth Fregger, the project manager behind the experience. She says attracting visitors to New Port Richey was another influence behind the project.

    “One big part of our project was to bring people to the downtown and people that are outside of our core community,” said Fregger, who is also the chairperson of New Port Richey Main Street’s design committee. “So, trying to reach out to not only the Tampa Bay area, but throughout the country.”

    With the hopes of encouraging visitors to discover the “City on-the-Water.’”

    “Bringing people into some of the places they wouldn’t normally be walking towards,” said Harper. “That’s what’s so fun about these being in various locations throughout downtown.”

    “The Tides of Time” visual art experience is now on display throughout New Port Richey. You can find a full listing of displays online here.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Zephyrhills homeowner concerned about potential flooding this hurricane season

    ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. — A few concerns are being raised by locals when it comes to storm infrastructure.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homeowners in Pasco County are growing concerned for what may be in store this hurricane season

    • Last hurricane season was an eye opener for many residents, with areas witnessing flooding for the first time
    • At city hall in Zephyrhills, preparations are being made for improved storm infrastructure with the city looking into grant funding
    • There has been new construction throughout the city, with talk of more homes on the way, but some think that should be avoided in certain areas


    Areas throughout Pasco County experienced flooding last fall due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, flooding areas like Silver Oaks. It has some locals concerned for what may be in store this hurricane season.

    “It just becomes a huge lake out here, when it rains enough,” said homeowner James Meyer.

    For Meyer, last hurricane season was an eye opener.

    “The water will rise through here after it’s quit raining, after a substantial thunderstorm,” he says. “I’ve witnessed a half an inch of flood flowing across the back pasture.”

    Meyer’s family has owned this land and house since 1966, encompassing 58 acres. Now, Meyer says it’s a second home for him and his family. He says in the time that he has owned the property, there have been three instances of flooding. However, none worse than last year.

    “I’m standing at that post, that electric pole over there and I’m taking the flood video,” said Meyer. “I’m standing there and panning. This whole area is covered. It goes all around from here.”

    The event was so impactful that Meyer is now thinking of selling.

    “I think it should be the next county park or city park,” he said.

    At city hall in Zephyrhills, preparations are being made for improved storm infrastructure.

    “We’re trying to be proactive and some of these solutions are very expensive,” said Shane LeBlanc, public works director for the City of Zephyrhills. “It takes a lot of time for design and construction.”

    LeBlanc says the city is looking into grant funding to purchase property that was impacted by flooding as well as fund storm water construction projects.

    “We’ve had a lot of issues with some of our drainage systems that we’ve been working on,” LeBlanc said. “We’ve cleaned out ditches, drainage pipes. Storm preparation is a full-time job for us, whether it’s hurricane season or not. When we get into the rainy season, we have to contend with storm water issues throughout the city.”

    There has been new construction throughout the city, with talk of more homes on the way. But Meyer thinks that should be avoided in his area.

    “It needs to not be developed,” Meyer said. “There’s nowhere for the water to run and if they get up there and put two thousand houses up on Pasadena Heights, holy cow.”

    Conserving, instead, what is already here.

    “I’d rather see all of this kept natural,” said Meyer. “Let mother nature have her area and the water will take its area.”

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Two Pasco County women’s stories of survival during Hurricane Helene

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — It’s a critical question many Floridians contemplate during hurricane season — should I stay or should I go?

    What You Need To Know

    • Evacuating during a storm can have its setbacks but, ultimately, can be the difference between life and death

    • Two Pasco women shared their stories of survival during Hurricane Helene, a storm that created two different experiences for the survivors
    • Kate Mullin evacuated her home before the storm reached land, but Stacey Van Schenck decided to stay at her home during the storm
    • Today, both continue picking up the pieces of their home left after the storm


    Evacuating during a storm can have its setbacks but, ultimately, can be the difference between life and death.

    On the water’s edge in Hudson, proudly stands the home of Kate Mullin.

    “This is where I live full time,” she says. “This is my home. I have electric and that’s it, really. Oh, and water.”

    It’s been eight months since Hurricane Helene, which flooded Mullin’s home and forced her to evacuate. Its impression is still noticeable on the home’s walls.

    Kate Mullin evacuated during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    “It’s hard when you come back and you’ve got four and a half feet of flood water that’s just taken away everything you’ve worked the last year for,” said Mullin, who evacuated during Hurricane Helene.

    Being in a mandatory evacuation zone, Mullin says she headed inland to Spring Hill. But it didn’t come without any sacrifices, as she had to leave her cat ‘Robby’ behind. Mullin jokes the cat may have a life or two left.

    “Five. He’s had two, one with each storm.”

    Jokes aside, had Mullin also stayed, she says the consequences could have been dire.

    “Probably, if I’d have stayed, which I wouldn’t have thought about to do because you know how bad floods can be. I wouldn’t have made it,” she said/

    Thirty minutes south of Mullin in Holiday…

    “I fly an American Flag. I have ever since I bought the house and previous owners did, too. It’s one of my favorite parts of the house.”

    Stacey Van Schenck has a different story — one that did not involve evacuating.

    “I’ve lived through all of them and never experienced anything like what I just experienced,” said Van Schenck.

    Van Schenck’s sentiment is one many Floridians share, thinking a storm won’t impact them until it does.

    Stacey Van Schenck did not evacuate during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    Stacey Van Schenck did not evacuate during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    “Complacency is something that the folks around Tampa Bay have dealt with many hurricane seasons over,” says Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologist Josh Linker. Linker says Hurricane Helene changed people’s perspective. So when Hurricane Milton approached weeks later, people started thinking of evacuating early.

    “The challenge with that, deciding not to evacuate early, is that maybe your neighborhood is not going to be underwater, but your evacuation path might be,” Linker said. “In this area here, as an example, in North St. Pete, this was under several feet of water, making certain intersections and roadways impassable. If you made that decision late, that’s going to cause some bigger problems for you.”

    Van Schenck says by the time she thought about evacuating, it was too late. It is a lesson she’s learned for the future.

    “I think what people lose sight of, and myself as well, is if you don’t evacuate and you have a medical emergency, first responders can’t get to you,” said Van Schenk. “So you’re putting your own life at risk, not only for the dangers of the storm, but after the fact.”

    A view Mullin shares…

    “If they tell you evacuate, I evacuate,” she says. “You can’t live on the water and just think that’s OK.”

    Both women continue picking up the pieces. With a few surprises to be found along the way, including Van Schenk’s missing flag.

    “That makes my heart happy; like I said, things like this, that excites me,” says Van Schenk. “It’s a sign of hope to me, for some reason, that just makes my day to see that’s where my flag is. And I can’t believe in six months I haven’t noticed that.”

    A small glimmer of hope during a difficult time, surviving a storm season that left a lasting impact on both women’s lives.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Areas throughout Pasco County seeing significant population boom

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — It’s no secret that in recent years Pasco County has seen a population boom.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County’s population is projected to be about 680,000 people this year, compared to about 495,000 people 10 years ago

    • Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area
    • Wesley Chapel has seen a rise in population, cementing itself as one of the largest populated areas within Pasco County
    • Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills is seeing a similar boom, with officials crediting the city’s sense of community and location as being a key factor


    It is projected the population this year will be about 680,000 people. Compare that to about 495,000 a decade ago. Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area.

    So, what is causing so many to decide to call the area “home?”

    “It is really a hub of economic and educational growth,” said Chad Emory.

    Inside their office, Chad and April Emory are working to keep up with demand.

    “It’s really growing in such a way that people want to move here because of the things that are offered,” said Chad Emory, broker & owner of Emorys Rock Realty. “It’s really great and centrally located for getting down to Tampa, which has all of the entertainment and sports and things like that. It’s a great location.”

    The husband-and-wife duo have called Wesley Chapel home for 22 years. Owning their real estate agency, Emorys Rock Realty, they have an insight on real estate throughout Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Lutz. They understand why homeowners are flocking to the area.


    “One of the first things that families ask about is the schools,” said April Emory. “So, we have an amazing school system in Wesley Chapel, and we were very happy when the colleges came to the area as well. My son had gotten his bachelor’s degree here so that was such a blessing for him.”

    Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills has been experiencing a similar population boom. City manager Billy Poe says it is a feeling of community that’s drawing in people.

    “As a city, we’re obviously trying to control growth and grow smartly but also have that community and hometown feel that I think draws a lot of people to our area,” said Poe.

    In fact, just two years ago, the city had to impose a moratorium. A pause was placed on new housing developments within city limits. While that moratorium is still in place, businesses like Bauducco Foods have broken ground in the area.

    “There are businesses looking at this area, which is a great thing for Zephyrhills and east Pasco as a whole,” said Poe. “Just being able to provide jobs here in Pasco County so our residents don’t have to drive to Hillsborough, Polk, or Pinellas counties. They’re able to work, live and play right here in Zephyrhills.”

    As for what future population trends look like, the Emorys say things are looking quite steady.

    “Every community is just growing and growing with everything they offer within their communities, like shopping and dining,” said April Emory. “So, I think we’re going to continue to see it be a destination location.”

    An area with plenty to offer, working to make sure there are places for people to live and do business.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Citrus County officials monitoring rapid population growth to ensure stability

    LECANTO, Fla. — Citrus County’s population is seeing some growth.

    According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county saw a 2.45% surge in its population in the past year. But as the county grows, so too are concerns about whether roads and other infrastructure can keep up. Plans are being made to help ensure stability.

    What You Need To Know

    • With population growth spreading throughout Citrus County, concerns are also growing over whether roads and other infrastructure can keep up

    • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county saw a 2.45% increase in its population in the past year
    • County officials say an additional 22,000 residents have come to Citrus County in the past 10 years


    It’s often described as one of those places off the beaten path.

    “Citrus County is one of those places that is super special,” District 4 Commissioner Rebecca Bays said.

    And Citrus County has seen its fair share of growth in recent years, with new roads and other infrastructure projects being a visual representation.

    “I know it upsets some,’ Bays said. “They think it’s happening a little too fast, but we believe that we’re controlling it.”

    Bays understands that sentiment a little more than most. There has been some recent pushback as to whether the county is sustainable for a larger population.

    But Bays said work is being done.

    “The planning that we’re doing now is really on the front edge,” Bays said. “We’ve worked with a company to do a growth-modeling component, and it is telling us exactly what’s happening in our county in real time.”

    It’s showing where in the county growth is happening, giving Bays and others insight on housing and what’s needed to accommodate it.

    “It tells us exactly where people are moving, how we need to bring in the commercial, how we need to bring in the industrial, and we have some shovel-ready projects,” Bays said. “Our Inverness airport has an industrial park that is basically shovel ready. We’re ready for the first tenant to go in there. It’s an opportunity to create those higher-wage jobs.”

    Bays said there has been an additional 22,000 residents in Citrus County in the past 10 years. And it all comes back to location.

    “We want our kids to have a home that if they decide to go away and get their education, we want them to come back, and we want them to live here and have that good job so that we have that multigenerational family unit here in Citrus County,” Bays said.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Citrus County warns residents about the dangers of hiring unlicensed contractors

    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A recent rise in unlicensed contract work is raising attention within Citrus County, and officials say it’s been a growing concern since the last hurricane season.

    What You Need To Know

    • With another hurricane season around the corner, Citrus County officials are reminding the public not to hire unlicensed contractors

    • Cases involving homeowners hiring unlicensed contractors to make home repairs have risen this past year, according to county officials
    • This type of activity, they say, increases after any kind of event that damages a lot of structures, such as a severe weather event
    • A few tips to avoid hiring an unlicensed contractor include asking for a copy of that person’s license and making sure every contract has their license number


    They say there are ways for homeowners to protect themselves and their homes. 

    Within the walls of her family’s business, Circle T Sod Farms, Katrina Leturno is hard at work.

    “There’s a greater need for renovation services and things to be fixed on your home,” she said.

    With the rainy season ahead, Leturno said she is seeing an increase in customers.

    “Started out as just a little family-owned small company,” said Leturno. “We’re glad to be in this community.”

    She said there has been some recent trouble, though: A growing amount of unlicensed work is being performed in the county.

    “Any time that there is a higher demand for something, you’re going to see a rise in unlicensed contractors coming and trying to have the opportunity to work on those projects as well,” Leturno said.

    Aside from her business, Leturno is also the president of the Citrus County Building Alliance. She advocates for the building industry and trades within Citrus County, working alongside Kayla Carroll and Gaston Hall.

    “That activity occurs all the time,” Hall said. “But once you have any kind of event that damages a lot of structures, then you have a very big uptick in unlicensed, unpermitted activity.”

    Hall is a retired certified general contractor, and said he has seen his fair share of repair work done the right way. There are red flags you can look for when a homeowner is concerned about someone posing as a licensed contractor.

    “Make sure you’ve got a copy of their license,” he said. “Make sure you’ve got a copy of their insurance. Make sure that every contract has their license number on there and that you can call and make sure that license is active.”

    It’s these small, but important details Hall and Leturno are trying to pass along, before it’s too late. 

    “You also run the risk of losing your home insurance because you’ve had uncontracted work done that isn’t up to today’s standards,” Leturno said. “There’s a lot of risk on the homeowner, and they need to understand that when they’re choosing to go with somebody who is unlicensed.”

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Citrus County considering upgrading boat ramp at Cross Florida Barge Canal

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A new and improved boat ramp may be coming soon to Citrus County. 

    Citrus County is actively pursuing the development of a boat ramp on the Cross Florida Barge Canal.

    The goal is to give boaters easier access to the Gulf and potentially alleviate congestion at other ramps. The project, however, is facing a few challenges.

    What You Need To Know

    • A project aimed at improving the boat ramp on the Cross Florida Barge Canal is being proposed by Citrus County commissioners

    • The goal is to give boaters easier access to the Gulf and potentially alleviate congestion at other ramps
    • A few challenges, however, are in the way, including funding, which took a step back after the Florida House and Senate declined the county’s funding request
    • Citrus County Commissioner Jeff Kinnard says the project is estimated to cost close to $5 million, with close to $4 million available for the project


    On the waters along the Cross Florida Greenway Trail, you’ll find pristine fishing conditions and the odd boat trailer or two.

    “We used to come out here and go red fishing and snook fishing right under here,” says Garrett Reese, a lifelong resident.

    Reese has been fishing these waters his whole life. As a Citrus County native and avid fisherman, fishing spots don’t get any better than this.

    “Crystal River is about a 20-minute ride. Boom,” says Reese. “Or you can go to Cedar Key the opposite way. You hit a little bit north, you’re in with the trout. You go a little bit south towards Crystal River, those big reds and big snooks. It’s all about time for us fishermen. The quicker we can get to our spot, the quicker we can get on those fish, and the happier we are.”

    There are discussions to improve the Cross Florida Bridge Canal, such as adding another ramp and improving parking for trailers. Citrus County commissioners have been talking about the idea for years. Only now, it’s gaining some traction.

    “The boaters and fisherman are really the folks who are speaking up about it and going, ‘It’s time we add to these facilities,’” said Citrus County Commissioner Jeff Kinnard, District 1. “The barge canal is really a natural location for it.”

    The only setback, Kinnard says, is funding.

    That took a step back after the Florida House and Senate declined the county’s funding request. But after hearing the voices of voters, Kinnard says the project may alleviate issues.

    “Taking some of the hazards that are built into boating, putting so many boats on the river — Crystal River, Homosassa River,” said Kinnard. “If we can move some of those boaters up to the barge canal out of those rivers, that really is the best scenario for everybody.”

    Voters such as Reese, who says he would like to see those improvements made, specifically for those younger than him.

    “Not only to get the locals out, but get new people out — kids, especially,” said Reese. “Got to start them young. Start that addiction young! So if they re-did this, I know I’d be coming here a lot more.”

    Ensuring the popular fishing spot thrives for future generations.

    The project is estimated to cost close to $5 million. Commissioner Kinnard says the county has close to $4 million available for the project.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County to receive $585.7 million to help with storm relief

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A little more than $585 million is coming to Pasco County in the form of storm relief.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County will be receiving $585.7 million in federal grants to help with storm relief efforts throughout the county

    • Money is coming through the Community Development Block grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
    • County officials say last fall, more than 800 homes were destroyed by hurricanes in Pasco County
    • The county will be holding public meetings, starting Tuesday in Zephyrhills, for residents to voice their opinions on where else the money should go


    It’s through the Community Development Block grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funds will help areas throughout Pasco recover from Hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton.

    Some homeowners are still building back after the storms.

    For six months, Ralph Cramton has been hard at work building back his home, making all sorts of repairs and trims at his saw table.

    “We lost all of our furniture, so it’s a matter of replacing,” says Cramton.

    Spectrum News first told you about Cramton and his wife’s story in December, as he was repairing their home while he was battling leukemia. Now, progress is being made.

    “This is my next project today,” says Cramton, standing next to a windowsill. “I’ve already got this part of the window.”

    Walls have been repaired and entire rooms brought back to life.

    “I think we’re probably a month or 45 days away from being able to get rid of all the boxes and the plastics and stuff like that,” Cramton said. “Have paint on all of the rooms and kind of be at a point where I can say, ‘I’m going to take the week off and not do any more repair work.’”

    County officials say last fall, more than 800 homes were destroyed by hurricanes in Pasco County, prompting the county to apply for a federal grant. The grant goes toward housing, infrastructure, economic revitalization, public services and planning.

    “Under infrastructure, we could really work with storm water, water, and different parts of our system that failed during the hurricanes to repair and make them stronger as well as help with critical public facilities,” said Marcy Esbjerg, senior program administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery Resources.

    It’s a boost, Cramton says, for those homeowners who are far more behind in their recovery efforts.

    “From a homeowner’s side, there’s a lot of people that I think need a lot of help and so I’d be all for that.”

    Seeing the progress that has been made on his home is bringing a new meaning of life to Cramton, too.

    “It’s a day at a time,” he says. “Nobody gets more than that and so I just try to make the best and the most.”

    Making the most of their situation day-by-day.

    The county will be holding public meetings, starting Tuesday in Zephyrhills, for residents to voice their opinions on where the money should go. An action plan needs to be published by the county, outlining how they are going to spend that money. That action plan comes out Monday.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco asks for resident feedback on redeveloping New Port Richey Grand Boulevard

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Plans are being discussed to revitalize Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey. 

    Grand Boulevard is the central talking point of a new revitalization project by Pasco County government. But before any work can be done, county officials first need to hear from locals on what they should like to see done.

    The project may have implications on the area’s population.

    What You Need To Know

    • A revitalization project is in the works for New Port Richey’s Grand Boulevard

    • Pasco County officials are asking to hear from locals on what they should like to see done, including improvements to sidewalks
    • The first phase of revitalization would span from Moog Road to the New Port Richey city line, with potential plans of expanding beyond those boundaries through other phases in the future


    For three years, Rich Bosse has been honing his craft as a tattoo artist in New Port Richey, owning his own tattoo parlor W. Ink Tattoo.

    “I’ve seen a lot of growth, even in the short time that I’ve been here,” says Bosse. “It’s really grown by leaps and bounds.”

    There’s been some talk of improvements being made just outside of Bosse’s shop, with a revitalization project of Grand Boulevard on the table.

    “It’s not downtown but we’re not far from it,” said Bosse. “I think we do get a lot of car traffic on Grand Boulevard and it’d be nice to get some foot traffic and people feel comfortable as opposed to walking on the side of the road or having this not be an area that’s conducive to foot traffic.”

    The addition of sidewalks would be one of those improvements made along the road, making a wide enough passage for pedestrians.

    “Up until very recently, there were no sidewalks on Grand Boulevard, for the most part,” says Bosse. “The ability to have people walk and be able to travel on their bikes or skateboards, or whatever it is, safely, is a pretty big deal as well.”

    This first phase of revitalization would span from Moog Road all the way down to the New Port Richey city line, with potential plans of expanding beyond those boundaries through other phases in the future.

    “There’s a lot of things we’re focused on and No. 1: we want to use Grand Boulevard to make it grand again,” said Pasco County Director of Planning, Development & Economic Growth David Engel.

    Pasco County officials say they have looked at similar areas in Tarpon Springs and Dunedin, but this would be a first for Pasco, adding that these types of changes can also increase property value. 

    “We realized that when areas, these old corridors, are in decline, businesses aren’t capturing sales tax revenue,” said Engel. “Property values aren’t elevated like the rest of the county. We really believe that a lot of people are in situations where they have unmet needs, so we want to make a workable environment.”

    It’s bringing some attention to those businesses like Bosse’s.

    “If we plan on beautifying it and making it an aesthetically pleasing thing and a safe thing, then I think it’s only a benefit to the businesses on Grand Boulevard,” said Bosse.

    It’s a benefit to those who call the area home.

    There will be a series of community workshops held in the next few weeks. Business owners and residents are invited to attend. The first workshop takes place at the Elfers Senior Center on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • North Tampa Christian Academy investing in future of education and sports

    WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — A Pasco County school is making a bold new play for the future of its athletics.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Wesley Chapel school has brought in a new athletic director, Kevin Squarzon, and a varsity boys’ basketball coach, Desmond Oliver
    • Oliver joins NTCA from USF, where he recently was an assistant coach with the men’s basketball program
    • Oliver’s appointment is a statement from the academy, showing an ambition to build a culture that goes along with the school’s mission


    North Tampa Christian Academy is making moves under some nationally recognized leadership. The Wesley Chapel school has brought in a new athletic director, Kevin Squarzon, and varsity boys’ basketball coach with Division 1 experience, Desmond Oliver. The school has a vision to invest in the future of Tampa Bay education and sports.

    Inside the gymnasium at North Tampa Christian Academy, the future of its athletics program can be seen dribbling up and down the court.

    “Building a good culture through sports and the community as well,” said Squarzon. “To not only win, because it’s not only about that, but to develop character and build a culture and environment that we want to start here in this new adventure with NTCA.”

    Squarzon is in charge of leading the school’s sports teams and everything that comes with them, including — as he says — building a “culture” for the seven-year-old program. It’s already taken a major step forward with the hiring of Oliver as the varsity boys’ basketball coach.

    “My main goal is going to be to try to get every sport to get to that level,” said Squarzon.

    Oliver joins NTCA from USF, where he recently was an assistant coach with the men’s basketball program, bringing some Division 1 experience to Wesley Chapel.

    “There’s a really, really good group of young players here that can be Division 1 players,” said Oliver. “With the idea of not moving my family — it just made sense. The timing was right, it made sense to do it and I wanted to get back to being a head coach, again, to be honest. I wanted to be a head coach again.”

    Oliver’s appointment is a statement from the academy, showing an ambition to build a culture that goes along with the school’s mission.

    “It’s not only to get good coaches but also kids to attend NTCA and feel like they’re getting something more than just being a student athlete and that’s growing in their spiritual development as well,” says Squarzon.

    It’s a mission to see that this young athletic department can grow into something special.

    “What it takes to build a program and build a culture and have a lot of fun doing it,” says Oliver. “The premise here is to play great defense, rebound, and run and play fast, score and having an exciting brand of basketball for our fanbase to watch.”

    It’s all with the hopes of becoming a premier destination for future students.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • SunWest Park reopens to public after damage sustained from hurricanes

    HUDSON, Fla. — A popular Pasco County park is back open again after sustaining damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    What You Need To Know

    • One of Pasco County’s largest parks has reopened to the public after sustaining damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton

    • Both hurricanes brought issues right to the park- notably, a lot of sand was blown out into the parking lot

    • A total of 26 truckloads of sand had to be brought in to replace what was lost

    • The damage was something, county officials say, the park had not seen in its near decade of existence


    It’s required months of work, but SunWest Park has its white sandy shores once more. Truckloads of the sand had to be brought in to repair the beach.

    “This is a crown jewel park for the county,” said Jason Mickel, public works director for Pasco County.

    Various activities like wake boarding and beach volleyball courts bring in local residents and tourists.

    “There’s plenty of areas to come out here and recreate and there’s a designated swimming area here as well,” said Mickel.

    Not that long ago, it looked a little different from what it does today. Having been struck by back-to-back hurricanes in Helene and Milton last fall.

    “We had public works crews out here for about two weeks,” says Mickel. “They focused mainly here on the south side. They also did- right where we’re standing in this swimming area- and they also had to do some repairs on the north side as well on this part of the beach. Everywhere, pretty much where there’s a designated swimming section, there had to be repairs made.” 

    A lot of the sand was blown out into the water and, even, to the parking lot.

    “We also brought in, in coordination with the parks department, 26 truckloads of white sand that you see now, that is on top of the beach,” said Mickel.

    It wasn’t just the sand, the hurricanes brought storm surge and wind damage. Something the park had not seen in its near decade of existence. 

    “I think a lesson for most of us in emergency management, to learn that a storm that doesn’t even make landfall in your area can still bring a tremendous amount of surge,” said Mickel. “We saw many, thousands of homes damaged from Helene- even though it didn’t direct hit us.”

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County takes strides in effort to protect gopher tortoises

    SPRING HILL, Fla. — Efforts are underway to better protect a species that is listed as ‘threatened’ in the Sunshine State and in Pasco County.

    That species is the gopher tortoise.

    What You Need To Know

    • Staff with Pasco County’s Parks and Recreation department are helping better protect gopher tortoises

    • Jumping Gully Preserve is acting as a sanctuary for the species, with countless tortoises having been transported to its green pastures

    • More than 144 gopher tortoises call the preserve home with staff monitoring and managing the site to ensure the population continues to grow

    • The gopher tortoise is considered a ‘keystone species’- meaning they help provide shelter for countless other animals


    The vast space of Jumping Gully Preserve is acting as a sanctuary for them.

    With an ever-developing county such as Pasco, many gopher tortoises have found a new home in its green environment.

    “We have an estimated 212 burrows out here and we only surveyed about 20% of the property. So there could be, substantially, more,” said Biologist Taylor Hays with Pasco County’s Environmental Lands and Acquisition Management Program.

    Hays stays on top of pinpointing burrows from one side of the preserve to the other.

    “You can see that’s flat on the bottom and rounded on the top,” said Hays, while pointing out a gopher tortoise burrow. “That’s obviously because of the shape of the tortoise.”

    Hays has been studying the tortoises for years, becoming an authorized gopher tortoise agent.

    “We were permitted for 144 tortoises … and the site is actually full now,” Hays said. “We’re not allowed to accept any more … but we monitor and manage to ensure the population continues to grow.”

    The tortoises, as she says, are also helping other species thrive.

    Being a ‘keystone species’ — they help provide shelter for countless other animals.

    “With gopher tortoises, they build these burrows and up to 350 species actually use them,” she said. “With it being a fire dependent habitat, they need somewhere to go, right? In a gopher tortoise burrow, you’re not going to find just a tortoise, but you could find other protected species. Like the gopher frog, the Florida mouse, eastern indigo snake and some fun ones like the rattlesnake, too.”

    Hays hopes to ensure the area’s natural habitants can live long and healthy lives.

    “The ultimate goal is to conserve and preserve these lands and restore them to their natural communities,” she said.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County Fire Station 3 opens, serving as ‘state-of-the-art facility’

    HUDSON, Fla. — CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article stated that Fire Station 3 would serve the Seven Springs area. Fire Station 17 serves the Seven Springs area and not Fire Station 3. Fire Station 3 will cover the Hudson area as well as Bayonet Point. We have updated the article and removed the mention of Seven Springs.

    —

    After a year-long construction delay, Pasco County Fire Station 3 is now open and operating.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County Fire Station 3 is now open and operating after a yearlong construction delay
    • An innovative design is helping keep both the community and firefighters safe, with the implementation of “hot, warm and cool zones”
    • The three zones help classify how firefighters return from a call and, as fire staff say, limit their risk of developing cancer
    • More fire stations are on the horizon for Pasco County, with a rebuild ongoing at Fire Station 19


    The new station is a state-of-the-art facility that is shaping the future of the department. The innovative design is helping keep both the community and firefighters safe.

    “The service that this is going to do for this area is going to be phenomenal,” said Commissioner Jack Mariano of District 5.

    A special ceremony takes place at the newly constructed Fire Station 3, ushering in a new era for Pasco County Fire Rescue, with a ceremonial push-in of fire engine 3. But the station is more than just another base of operation — it’s helping keep both the community and firefighters safe.

    “We’ve had a real goal towards limiting cancer in the fire service and Pasco County is on the leading edge of trying to do that,” said Deputy Chief of Administration David Mengel.

    To help limit cancer, Mengel says Station 3 has what’s called “hot, warm and cool zones.”

    “Right now, we’d be standing in what we consider our hot zone, so it’s the apparatus bay,” said Mengel. “This is where we’re going to come back from a call; a fire call. We’ve already had our decontamination on-scene and have gotten new gear from our Decon Unit.”

    The three zones help classify how firefighters return from a call. From hot to warm, firefighters remove their gear. Then, they make their way to the cool zones.

    “That’s going to include the rest of the fire station,” Mengel says while showing around Spectrum Bay News 9. “Up and down this hallway are all bunk rooms for our members to sleep in at night or to go and get some rest during the shift. Just to my left down here is going to take us into the gymnasium and then to the rest of the living quarters where you have the kitchen, living room and just a place for us to eat and an office to do some work.”

    A total of 12 firefighters currently make up the station staff, with a tower truck, a fire truck and two ambulances with some room to grow.

    “It’s quite a bit of crews and we can double that size if we need to,” said Pasco Fire Chief Ryan Guynn.

    It’s all necessary for a growing community.

    “This area, we’ve identified a long time ago as needing some extra service,” says Guynn. “Sometimes it takes a little while to get that service to fruition, but we’re glad that it’s here and we’re ready to serve.”

    It’s bringing with it an innovative method for how the future of fire rescue in Pasco will look.

    Mengel says more fire stations are on the horizon for Pasco County, with a rebuild ongoing at Fire Station 19.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • New ‘Outfield’ center helping Pasco County individuals overcome drug addiction

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A Tampa Bay area non-profit dedicated to helping those recover from drug addiction is expanding. 

    For years, the Recovery Epicenter Foundation has helped with its peer-led recovery center— ‘The Catcher’s Mitt’— in Clearwater. They want to provide that same service in Pasco County.

    “The answers are very satisfied, satisfied, neutral, dissatisfied, very dissatisfied or unsure.”

    What You Need To Know

    • A new resource center dedicated to helping individuals overcome drug addiction is now open in Pasco County

    • ‘The Outfield’ is an extension of ‘The Catcher’s Mitt’- another recovery center located in Clearwater, operated by the Recovery Epicenter Foundation
    • Both centers help individuals seeking support who might not qualify for traditional medical services
    • Those with the non-profit say they hope to one day expand in Hernando, Hillsborough and Manatee counties in the future


    Inside an office is a pathway toward drug recovery. And helping lead the way is peer support specialist Ashley Eberts with ‘The Outfield.’ The newest branch of the Recovery Epicenter Foundation.

    “Now- my goal is to help other people get clean because life is wonderful without drugs,” said Eberts.

    Eberts is on her own recovery journey, having battled addiction with opiates. It led to Eberts losing her children for a period of time.

    “I had a choice, to either get clean and get my children back or lose my children and continue down that road,” said Eberts.

    Help from the non-profit aided Eberts and others on the road to recovery.

    “We provide them with all the recovery resources,” says Teresa Mancuso, program director of The Catcher’s Mitt and The Outfield. “We really want to get them submerged in recovery so when they leave here, they have that network of people, right? Which is going to decrease their chance of relapse.”

    ‘The Outfield’ is now the second recovery center operated by the Recovery Epicenter Foundation. With a high demand for help in Pasco County playing a role.

    “What we’re really striving to do is fill that gap,” Mancuso said. “That gap of, if somebody does relapse and they’re at a sober home, instead of them returning to the streets or returning to a motel, they’re going to have somewhere safe to go where they have that little bit of time to recover in order to get back into their sober home and embark on their recovery journey.”

    It’s also finding new meaning for people like Eberts. Being reunited with her children and going 8 years strong in sobriety.

    “That was the happiest moment of my life,” she says. “It compared to them being born, basically.”

    Offering a second lease on life.

    The grand opening of ‘The Outfield’ will be taking place Friday.

    Mancuso says they hope to expand in Hernando, Hillsborough and Manatee counties in the future.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Angeline Farm staff asking for public’s help after six hens were stolen

    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Workers at a Pasco County farm are asking the public for help in finding chickens they say were stolen from their coop last week.

    What You Need To Know

    • Workers at Angeline Farm say six hens were stolen in the middle of the night last week

    • Farm staff say they got a call from café staff on-site saying chickens were running outside of their coop
    • Angeline Farm is the first agrihood in the Tampa Bay area, acting as an agriculture amenity to the community with its vegetables and flowers
    • Staff on the farm are asking the public for their help in bringing the hens home


    Six hens were stolen in the middle of the night from Angeline Farm, and now farm staff members say they are hoping the hens return home. The coop holds a special place in the local community.

    “You can see we have a summer squash here. These are growing super fast now, so we’re really harvesting these every day,” said lead farm educator Bobby Dileo.

    Along a row of greens on Angeline Farm, Dileo plucks some of the fresh vegetables.

    “This is a full-time job,” Dileo said. “We’re out here everyday weeding, planting, taking care of the chickens and also doing community events.”

    It’s a full-time job that requires plenty of patience and care. But what happened at the farm’s chicken coop was something completely unexpected.

    “You can see right where they cut it,” said Dileo of the coop. “They cut it on three separate sides so it was almost like a door.”

    Dileo said the hens were just days away from laying their first eggs.

    “I got a call from one of the cafe staff members on-site saying the chickens were running loose out of the coop,” he said. “So I came up here and there were some out of the coop, but then we were also missing six hens.”

    Angeline Farm is the first agrihood in the Tampa Bay area. Acting as an agriculture amenity to the community with its vegetables and flowers. Its produce stays local and is primarily used at the on-site cafe, including the eggs.

    “It’s never going to be a major egg producer,” said Dileo. “It’s really more of just an educational aspect for the community. But it’s a really big part of the community. We have kids that come up here every day — they ride their bikes up here. We have retired people come up and walk their dogs. Everybody loves the chicken coup.”

    As far as motive for the crime, Dileo said rising egg prices could have played a part.

    “I know it’s hard for a lot of people to afford groceries these days, but I’m not really sure why someone would’ve come in and stolen just six chickens,” he said.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Local stakeholders, officials tour King’s Bay to protect waterways

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A local effort is underway to protect Citrus County’s waters.

    The Sierra Club Florida Chapter recently hosted a special boat tour of areas along Kings Bay in an effort to protect and improve Florida’s waterways.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Sierra Club Florida Chapter hosted a special boat tour of areas along Kings Bay in an effort to protect and improve Florida’s waterways

    • Part of that mission included inviting some key stakeholders and local officials along for the ride
    • Experts say the waters play a crucial role in Citrus County’s economy and wildlife, like manatees, which serve an important role in the area’s tourism
    • Those with the Sierra Club say they hope local officials and key decision makers will take action to help get the springs on the road to recovery


    Officials with the Sierra Club say things like hurricanes, development and fertilizer runoff have all contributed to the problems seen at places like Kings Bay. Among them are erosion, algae growth and reductions in seagrass, which manatees rely on to survive.

    Outside PaddleTail Lodge, the group gathered to tour the area’s waterways. Organizers said to better understand what’s happening to it, one has to actually touch the water’s surface.

    “Really to help connect the dots as far as what’s going on within our springs, and how different stakeholders and groups are working together to help restore our springs to their former glory,” said Michael McGrath, a lead organizer with the Sierra Club Florida Chapter.

    Part of that mission included inviting some key stakeholders along for the ride, under the guidance of Capt. John Spann with PaddleTail Waterfront Adventures, who has witnessed firsthand how the waters have changed throughout the years.

    “It’s everything,” said Spann. “It’s the fertilizer we put on our yard, it’s our septic tank when we flush our toilet, it’s the city water sources if they’re using them and how they’re being managed, it’s golf courses, it’s agriculture. Everybody plays a part and the more we realize that we’re all part of the problem, the easier it is to make everybody be part of the solution.” 

    It’s those waters that play such a crucial role in Citrus County’s economy. Without these springs, there would not be any manatees — which are a significant part of the area’s tourism.

    “We know what we’re doing is a problem,” Spann said. “It’s trying to get back ahead of that curve to protect the ones we do have left, especially up here in North Florida.”

    Some of those areas impacted on the water are noticeable from the surface, including spots of erosion that have taken place along the shore.

    “Being on the water today, it all became a tremendous reality of what’s happened,” said Citrus County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Ardath Prendergast. “The erosion, to me, emphasizes how important it is that we all play our part to protect this area.”

    And Spann said the solution starts with getting everyone on board.

    “Just educate people,” he said. “Most people don’t know that if they fertilize their yard 30 yards away from the springs, it can affect that water system. So just letting people know how this interconnected system works.”

    Those with the Sierra Club say they hope local officials and key decision makers take action to help get the springs on the road to recovery.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Crystal River named among HGTV’s 50 ‘Most Charming’ small towns list in the U.S.

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — This small town has been declared one of the “Most Charming” in America.

    What You Need To Know

    • Crystal River has been recognized by HGTV as one of the “Most Charming” small towns in America

    • The new designation is bringing some much-needed attention to the Nature Coast, along with the best in what it has to offer
    • According to Crystal River officials, Citrus County sees more than 1.6 million visitors a year
    • It has been a stark contrast from where Crystal River was only a matter of months ago, with businesses and areas damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton


    Recently, HGTV released a list of the 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America. One Florida small town, located along the Nature Coast, made the list.

    The new designation is making waves for Crystal River and the Nature Coast.

    Along the shores of Hunter Springs Park, dozens can be seen enjoying nature.

    “This is one of the prettiest small towns I’ve ever lived in, and I love it very much,” said Crystal River City Manager Audra Curts.

    “A designation like this just puts our name out nationwide,” Curts added. “More people from the United States, more people from outside our country will come here and visit and see the wonders of Crystal River. It’s just a wonderful thing for supporting the local economy here.”

    It’s a designation that comes as no surprise to Curts and tourism director Auvis Cole. They get to enjoy what this small town has to offer every day.

    “The cool thing about it: This was something that was not voted on,” said Cole. “We were selected.”

    In their eyes, it’s bringing some much-needed attention to the Nature Coast, and brings out the best it has to offer.

    “People want to relax,” said Cole. “People want to enjoy the nature — the natural and original beauty of Florida. And when they come here, they’re able to unwind a little bit and get away from the hustle and bustle.”

    It has been a stark contrast from where Crystal River was only a matter of months ago, with businesses and areas damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. But now, with spring in the air, tourist season is in full-swing.

    “We welcome over 1.6 million people a year annually,” said Cole. “To some, that may be a lot, but the cool thing about it is it pumps a lot of financial benefits into our local economy and our businesses, our tour operators, our restaurants, our hotels — our residents. We can all take part in that.”

    And as more flock to the area, Cole says he hopes it will open travelers’ eyes to what else this small town has to offer.

    “You talk about the culinary scene, you talk about the shops,” Cole said. “Again, the people, the parks — we have things like different centers, like the refuge wildlife centers, which are amazing.”

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Money being raised to research Wesley Chapel incorporation

    WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — It’s a question being raised by some Pasco County businesses: should Wesley Chapel become a city?

    The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce is raising money to research the pros and cons.

    What You Need To Know

    • Wesley Chapel is the focus of a potential research study being performed by the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce

    • Wesley Chapel is an unincorporated census designated place or CDP, making it part of Pasco County and Pasco County government

    • The study is a way to see if Wesley Chapel becoming a city makes financial sense

    • The hope is to have the first study funded in the next 2 to 3 months, with another few months to complete it


    “The timing is right,” said Hope Kennedy, President & CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. “The business community came to the chamber and said, ‘Hey, we want to look into incorporation of Wesley Chapel.’ Not for right now, but for the future.”

    Wesley Chapel, as Kennedy explains, is an unincorporated census-designated place, or CDP, and is governed by the Pasco County government.

    “The business community has come to us because, at a certain point, the growth is outpacing the infrastructure and the different services within our community,” said Kennedy. “The business community sees it as an opportunity to keep the tax dollars here in this area.”

    She says the study is a way to see if Wesley Chapel becoming a city makes financial sense.

    It’s not the first time this has been discussed, with talk going back more than 10 years.

    “Back then, it was being driven by the residents, ironically,” Kennedy said. “The business community wasn’t as engaged in that process. Now the business community is engaged in the process and so we want to make sure that, again, it’s data driven and it’s done right.”

    There will be two separate studies, an economic impact study and a feasibility study. It will show what a municipality would look like and what sort of structure the city would have.

    One potential outcome, Kennedy says, could involve taxes.

    “There might be a redistribution of those taxes,” she said. “Again, we won’t know those dollar amounts or what that looks like. What we’re hoping to get out of this study is here’s what you get now for your taxes at this amount and here’s what you’re going to get for your taxes at this amount.”

    She says the goal is for the study is to show the impact becoming a city may have on local residents.

    “It’ll be a very good look at what Wesley Chapel is and what Wesley Chapel can be,” she said.

    Kennedy says they hope to have the first study funded in the next 2 to 3 months. It’ll then take another few months to complete it.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Innovative traffic tech now monitors some Pasco roads

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A new form of technology is being used by Pasco County Transportation engineers to better gauge traffic volumes.

    What You Need To Know

    • New technology is being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization to better gauge traffic volumes on busy roads

    • It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer

    • Intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor are being monitored, helping hone in on near misses

    • The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians with data used to count how many pass through an intersection


    It’s also helping hone in on near misses on some key roads, leading the way to safer roadways.

    At a busy intersection on U.S. 19 stands a new cutting-edge camera looking down on traffic below.

    “It’s making our intersections safer for our citizens to cross,” said Tania Gorman, executive director of the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

    A camera looks down on an intersection on U.S. 19. (Spectrum News)

    It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer.

    “We are now entering into a micromobility area looking at behavior of those that are driving at our most dangerous intersections,” said Gorman.

    Right now, the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization is monitoring intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor.

    A view from one of Pasco County’s traffic volume monitoring cameras. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    “We’ve actually just started monitoring over the last month,” Gorman said. “We’ve just taken down the data for collection results. So we’ll get that data and review it and that will give us more insight to the behaviors going on at that intersection.”

    The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians, using different colors to identify them. That data can then be used to count how many pass through that intersection.

    “There’s darting across the street and you’re just like, ‘Oh man, I wish I knew what happened’ because in the past, that’s what we’d say,” said Gorman. “A lot of our reports come from the on-scene officer or highway patrol or whoever is on scene. Now we’re able to see the crash in real time and see what exactly transpired in that moment.”

    AI technology being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization can distinguish between different modes of mobility. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    Right now, the tech is being used at three different intersections, including U.S. 19 and Sea Ranch Drive. If successful, more intersections throughout the county may see the cameras.

    “That way we can have a comprehensive, cooperative and collaborative process of planning on how we’re going to identify and address these intersections that have these issues with safety concerns,” said Gorman.

    It’s all paving the way for safer roads throughout the county.

    Gorman says the next step will be to have a micromobility plan, allowing the county to expand where cameras are placed.

    Calvin Lewis

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  • Recent manatee deaths have Homosassa homeowners concerned about wildlife

    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A few homeowners are growing concerned after a string of manatee deaths in their own backyard.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homosassa residents are growing concerned after a recent string of manatee deaths in their own backyard

    • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is currently investigating the deaths, with some locals becoming vocal over the issue
    • One strong belief from locals is that the construction on US-19 has something to do with the recent deaths
    • According to a statement from FWC, staff have not found any evidence to suggest the manatee deaths and fish kills are related


    The recent deaths have sparked an investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), with some locals becoming vocal over the issue.

    Nestled in a quiet habitat along the Halls River, Sally Krasny looks out on her backyard. A view she’s been enjoying for 27 years and counting.

    “We used to have crabs all over the place. We’d see the kids and the shells hunting for crabs. We’d have lots of birds in the winter,” she said. “We’re known as the Nature Coast and our resources need to be protected.”

    But recently, there’s been an issue on the water. A recent string of deaths involving manatees and catfish. Something, Krasny says, that has not happened before.

    “We have never seen a kill off the way we’re experiencing right now,” Krasny said. “We’re not seeing the wildlife here. There is no eel grass left in the Halls River.”

    It’s for this reason that has Krasny and other homeowners, like Laura King, concerned.

    “It’s quite shocking,” said King. “The first one I cried. I know people think that’s silly to cry over wildlife, but I spend so much time out here. They’re like my pets — we name them and I know them by their scars.”

    One strong belief from Krasny and a few others is that the cause is nearby, believing the construction on US-19 has something to do with the recent deaths.

    “It started when they started the highway project and started digging the retention ponds,” says Krasny. “We objected to them and they convinced us that the ponds would not affect our rivers at all.”

    Whatever the cause may be, locals like King and Krasny say they will remain vocal for the wildlife.

    “This is our passion — is nature,” said Krasny. “And so I’m going to protect it the best way I can. It’s my backyard.”

    A backyard worth protecting.

    Spectrum News did reach out for comment from the FWC. A spokesperson with the FWC provided the following statement:

    The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating a fish kill in the Homosassa River, which primarily affected hardhead catfish (Ariopsis felis), and was first reported to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline on March 9th relaying dead fish had been observed for one week prior to the call. On March 15, FWC staff visited the site, collected three water samples, all of which were associated with normal water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, temperature). Due to decomposition, staff could not collect fish samples for necropsy. Analysis of water samples for harmful algal blooms is pending.   

    FWC is also monitoring an increase in manatee deaths from the Homosassa River. Since January, FWC has confirmed ten manatee carcasses in the Homosassa River, and four additional carcasses in its tributaries. At least five of the manatee deaths are attributed to an acute natural gut infection from a dietary change to macroalgae, which has been documented before when colder weather restricts manatee movements to areas with seagrass.  

    At this time, staff have found no evidence to suggest the manatee mortality and fish kill events are related. 

    We urge the public to continue to report any sightings of sick, injured, or dead manatees or other wildlife to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).  
     
    To report a fish kill, diseased fish, or a fish with other abnormalities to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline you can call: 800-636-0511 or submit a report online at MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill.

    Calvin Lewis

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