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Tag: Citrus County

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    A beautiful landscape now protected for years to come.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Interactive Map: Track Florida Wildfires

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida dry season usually runs from November through May, and with that comes fire danger. This is usually due to low humidity and reduced rainfall. 

    Due to the enhanced fire danger, burn bans are in effect for the Tampa Bay area. A burn ban prohibits burning outdoors as well as fireworks, sparklers and fire pits. Outdoor grilling is allowed as long as flames are contained within a grill and the fire is constantly attended. 

    Here are some safety tips to prevent fires:

    • Remove fuels that can lead flames to your home or that can be ignited by windblown embers.
    • Clear away dead grass, leaves, twigs, and branches from structures, roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways.
    • Store firewood at least 30 feet from occupied structures.
    • Plant landscaping that retains moisture and resists ignition, such as native, fire-resistant vegetation.
    • Help emergency responders find your home faster by making sure that street numbers are easy to read.
    • Know where the closest firefighting water source is to your home or building.
    • Dispose of cigarette butts properly.
    • Pick up light-refracting metal items, such as soda cans, that can spark a fire.     
    • Don’t park vehicles over high grass that could come into contact with hot engines and other components.

    INTERACTIVE MAP: LATEST WILDFIRES

    Click/tap on the fire icons to get more information on that particular fire.


    If the map does not load, try this link

    Florida Wildfire Resource Links:

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    Spectrum News Staff

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    So that others may enjoy nature like this.

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

    A view worth protecting for future generations.

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    Calvin Lewis

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Bay area schools weigh adding 2% and whole milk as options

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    TAMPA, Fla. — When President Donald Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act in January, it paved the way for 2% and whole milk to return to schools after a nearly 15-year absence.

    What You Need To Know

    • School districts have the option to bring back 2% and whole milk as options

    • No Bay area school district has committed to having these milks as options but are considering them

    • M&B Products said it will work with schools on what they need 


    The Obama administration originally removed those milks in an effort to fight childhood obesity.

    Now, school districts will once again have the option to provide a wider range of milk options. 

    Dale McClellan, the President of M&B Products, a Bay area dairy company, has been working with schools since 2004. 

    The majority of the milk they supply is low fat, but now school districts have more options.

    So far, the response has been limited. 

    “There’s been a little bit of a handful of phone calls from systems wanting to know, do we plan on doing a bigger variety of butterfat percentages? And we’ve told them we would entertain anything that makes sense,” he said.

    Christie Roberts, the Director of Patient Nutrition Services at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, said more options may encourage children to drink more milk.

    “If you’re a child that doesn’t like skim milk and then you have the option of a 2% or whole, then it’s going to increase your consumption of milk,” she said. 

    No matter the type of milk, Roberts said children should have between two and three servings of milk a day.

    “Younger children, we do recommend the more full or fat options for their growth and development,” she said. “But as they get older and they’re trying to work towards a healthy, lean physique and health, then the lower-fat options might be good.” 

    Spectrum News reached out to local school districts to find out if they are considering adding 2% and whole milk as options. 

    No districts have committed to adding the products, but are considering it.  

    Most provided statements that were similar to this from Hillsborough County Schools:

    “We are exploring how we might add whole milk and 2% milk to our offerings, as these products are not part of our current contracts with our dairy vendor.”

    Sarasota County Schools provided this statement:

    “If it is ultimately determined that Sarasota County Schools will move forward with offering 2% and whole milk as part of the National School Lunch Program, the earliest anticipated implementation would be the 2026–2027 school year.”

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Lawn watering restrictions in effect for the Tampa Bay area

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    TAMPA, Fla. — We have had cold weather this year, but we have not had a lot of rain. So, starting Sunday, water restrictions will be in effect.

    According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, our area has a rainfall deficit of more than a foot. This is because of the drier than normal rainy season we had last summer.

    In response, the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s order will reduce lawn watering to one day a week.

    If you’re wondering what day you can water, it will depend on the last number of your address. 

     
    DAY OF THE WEEK ADDRESS ENDING IN
    MONDAY 0 or 1
    TUESDAY 2 or 3
    WEDNESDAY 4 or 5
    THURSDAY 6 or 7
    FRIDAY 8 or 9

    Source: Southwest Florida Water Management District

    Watering hours will be reduced to 12:01 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 6 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. If your property is less than one acre in size, you may only use one of the those time windows.

    If you have a low-volume watering system (micro-irrigation, soaker hoses, hand watering) used for watering plants and shrubs, not lawns, you are allowed to water any day and any time.

    The Southwest Florida Water Management District is also asking you to check with your local government for allowable hours or whether there are stricter hours.

    These restrictions will be in place until July 1.


    PDF: Phase II Water Shortage FAQ

    PDF: Phase II Water Shortage Fact Sheet

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Cynthia Henderson starts Citrus County group for female veterans

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    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A Citrus County woman started a group for other female veterans like herself. She also spearheaded an effort to get a monument for female vets built and placed in front of the historic county courthouse in Inverness.

    What You Need To Know

    • Cynthia Henderson is a U.S. Air Force veteran

    • Henderson started the Female Veterans Network of Citrus County

    • Group members meet monthly and perform community service projects 

    • Members raised funds to have a monument to female veterans built and placed in front of the historic county courthouse in Inverness 


    Cynthia Henderson served in the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s and is very proud of her service. She believed that there needed to be a local organization that was just for local female veterans. So, she started the Female Veterans Network of Citrus County.

    “Well, the camaraderie number one. We all get together for lunch once a month,” said Henderson.

    Group members talk about issues they face as veterans, while supporting each other through the struggles and helping the community.

    “We do various things for the community. We had a female veteran, and we replaced her roof,” said Henderson.

    They also offer a scholarship program for female high school senior JROTC members.

    The members of the group all take pride in their military service. “It’s a sisterhood. Even the sisterhood that we felt in the branch that we were in,” said Sigmond. “This is a bigger sisterhood because this is all the branches.”

    The network also spent several years planning the design and raising funds for the female veterans’ monument. They recently held a five-year rededication ceremony for the monument.

    Henderson said she makes sure to keep up with group members to make sure they are OK. “Well, it’s deep-rooted in the service we served in, even though we were in different branches. We were still serving in the same country,” said Henderson. “Every time I see the girls I find out something new about one or two of them.”

    “She has that compassion and always has that smile. And she loves us. We know she does,” said Sigmond.

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    Rick Elmhorst

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Getting them one step closer to nature.

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Colder than normal temperatures expected for several days

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    A strong cold front has brought in much cooler air, with another reinforcing shot of cold air this weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • Freezing temperatures are expected north of Tampa

    • Highs will only be in the 50s and 60s the rest of the work week

    • It could get even colder next weekend


    Low temperatures on Tuesday morning will fall to the mid-to-upper 30s for Tampa, but expect some areas near freezing in eastern Hillsborough and Polk counties.

    A freeze warning is in effect for Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties, where lows in the mid-20s to near 30 are likely.

    Wind chills near or even below 20 are possible north of Tampa, with 20s to low 30s wind chills possible elsewhere. 

    Wednesday morning will be a touch colder, so expect freezing temperatures north of Tampa once again.

    Expect another cold morning with a freeze north on Thursday, but it will be slightly milder to start Friday. 

    This Weekend

    Another strong cold front will come through during the day on Saturday.

    This will bring a chance of showers during the day, then falling temperatures Saturday night.

    Sunday morning could be the coldest of the winter, with temperatures near freezing in Tampa and possibly in the teens in Hernando and Citrus counties.

    Long Term Forecast

    Beyond the weekend, there is no sign of the colder air letting up.

    A big dip in the jet stream across the eastern United States will continue to drive cold fronts south.

    Below-normal temperatures are expected through at least the first week of February. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Kyle Hanson

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  • Elisha Belden promotes arts for children and young people in Citrus County

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    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A Citrus County woman is making sure kids and teens in her community get a chance to experience the arts.

    Elisha Belden said she saw a need for young people and started a nonprofit that runs out of the same building as her tattoo business.

    What You Need To Know

    • Elisha Belden started the Twistid Arts Initiative in Citrus County

    • It all started with a sidewalk chalk art contest for children in 2022

    • The Twistid Arts Initiative provides art classes and stages theater productions in Inverness.

    • The latest production set to debut is called Story Island


    Belden’s business called Twistid Ink is located on Highland Boulevard in Inverness. That’s where there are three tattoo artists working including her husband, Danny Belden. The building also includes rooms for art classes and a former small church sanctuary that now acts as a theater.

    Belden started to promote arts for young people by having Twistid Ink sponsor a sidewalk chalk art competition in 2022.

    It was such a hit that community members asked her if she could do more for the arts. She then started art classes for children, art shows and putting on theater productions in a city-owned theater. But the theater was so busy with other community productions that she made the move into her current building in February 2025.

    “When we were running around town using other buildings for the arts center it was very stressful, very stressed,” said Belden. “Here if we have a break, we can walk into the back and do anything we need to.”

    Belden started a nonprofit called Twistid Arts Initiative to promote and fund the arts projects for young people. She says much of the funding comes from her Twistid Ink business.

    Twistid Arts Initiative has put on a number of productions for the community.

    “We do a lot of kids’ shows. But we do balance it out,” said Belden. “We do some teen and some adult stuff as well.”

    That includes a production of Macbeth, Beetlejuice, Snow Queen, The Wizard of Oz and an original production called The Cursed. The current original production in rehearsal is called Story Island.

    “We are just fine-tuning at this point,” she said. “They’ve got it all down. They’ve got their lines. They’ve got their blocking. Most of it. Ha. Ha. They are doing a great job.”

    Story Island will premiere the last weekend of January and the first weekend of February.

    “The arts are important,” said Belden of the theater productions with young actors. “I feel like it helps them learn critical thinking skills. They get to bond and experience emotional roller coasters through different characters and empathize.”

    Danny Belden, who is the artistic director of the Twistid Arts Initiative, echoed Elisha’s thinking.

    “We are putting everything we can into these kids and what they are doing because it’s changing their lives like it changed mine.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • ‘We Are The Essentials’ helps find the missing

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    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — In missing person’s cases, the most important question is not ‘why’ or ‘how,’ but ‘where?’

    What You Need To Know

    • We Are the Essentials is a rescue and recovery nonprofit helping families find missing loved ones. 

    • Made up of former law enforcement, private investigators and military members, the group of volunteers has located dozens of missing persons over the past few years. 

    • This story is part of a series of reports connected to the 20-year mark of Jennifer Kesse’s disappearance.


    “So her body was discarded in this pond,” said Shelley Croft, pointing to a murky creek that flows parallel to Suncoast Boulevard in Homosassa.

    Croft, Amanda Reece and Billy Lane stand along the creek. The three have spent hours in and along this small creek in rural Citrus County.

    “We came back out just recently and found another three bones,” said Lane.

    The trio are the founders of We Are the Essentials, a rescue and recovery nonprofit whose mission is to find the missing.

    “You always remember their names. You always remember where you recovered them from. Always,” said Lane.

    In a creek is where Jaime MacDonald’s body was dumped after she was murdered. It sat submerged for 44 days before she was found by police.

    Hope Yates looks down at the spot her mother was found. She is MacDonald’s eldest child. She came back here in January to meet Croft, Lane and Reece because they had recently uncovered more missing bones that belong to MacDonald.

    Made up of former law enforcement, private investigators and military members, the group of volunteers has located dozens of missing persons over the past few years. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Erin Murray)

    “This is so special, thank you guys,” said Yates.

    Like most missing person cases, MacDonald’s started with missed phone calls. Her two children knew something was wrong and called the police.

    “It was very frustrating,” remembers Yates. “And the 44 days before she was found, we were kind of left in the dark. So we weren’t really aware where the case was going.”

    Yates said the police did not continually communicate, so she and her brother turned to the internet searching for help. That is when they found We Are The Essentials.

    “It was just so comforting just to have somebody responding when we were at such a time of silence,” said Yates.

    Silence that often happens when search efforts stall.

    “Because a lot of time and not knowing, I think can also destroy a life,” said Reece.

    That is just one of many reasons the nonprofit was started by private investigators and former law enforcement.

    Their first big case is one most people across the United States know.

    “Because of Gabby, we exist,” said Lane.

    The group played a role in the search efforts after Gabby Petito was found murdered.

    “A group of former law enforcement, military guys, we all worked together,” said Lane. “We decided, let’s go out. Let’s use our skills to see if we can help find Brian Laundrie.”

    Though after that case, the purpose of We Are The Essentials became more clear.

    “It was important for us not to seek out suspects, but we flipped it from suspects to actual victims and those who were missing,” said Lane.

    To date, they have found dozens of people, augmenting law enforcement efforts.

    Croft points out that there are several gaps when it comes to missing person’s cases. A big one Reece and Croft say is the usual rule to wait 48 hours before police will pick up a missing person’s case.

    “Those are the most critical, important times is when that person goes missing initially. And I believe that there needs to be a streamlined approach,” said Croft.

    They are now pushing for a federal law to create a stronger national database for missing person’s investigations.

    “Our goal is to come up with a No Wate Bill. The ‘WATE’ being W-A-T-E, for We Are The Essentials,” said Croft.

    They group firmly feels it would help with the cases that go cold or fall through the cracks.

    “Everybody deserves answers,” said Croft “And I think that unknown is the hardest part because so many families like the Kesse’s, you know, they’re going on 20 years. And they don’t have those answers.”

    Yates agrees. Parts of her mother’s hand were never found, and she said she will not stop looking until they are all discovered. 

    “I will not,” said Yates. “I’ll be looking for Mom until we find all of her.”

    Nonprofits like We Are The Essentials do not charge families. Lane said their services are always free. 

    To keep going, the group relies on sponsors and private donations. 

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    Erin Murray

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  • Crystal River dips to 25 degrees early Friday

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — While many who live in Crystal River’s luxury RV communities are in the Bay area seasonally to escape the cold winter months up north, the frigid air followed them to Florida’s nature coast early Friday morning.

    According to our Spectrum Bay News 9 weather experts, the low in Crystal River hit 25 degrees early Friday morning.

    What You Need To Know

    •  RV owners make sure to prepare water systems, get propane ahead of cold

    •  Temperature dropped to 25 degrees at sunrise Friday morning

    • Crystal River could dip into the 20s again on Monday morning  

    • MORE: Latest forecast from our weather experts 


    Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort in Crystal River is just over two years old and quickly gaining popularity.

    The community is full of activities, amenities, and has a large heated pool and clubhouse on site. The area attracts RV owners from many northern states to come spend the winter months in Crystal River.

    Knowing below-freezing temperatures were headed this way, Bret Beebe says he had a plan to prepare for this cold snap. From northern Minnesota, he says he’s endured many cold nights and protecting his RV and all the associated equipment is important.

    Bfoileebe says he made sure to unhook the pressure washer regulator, drain the hoses, and add filtration and softener before turning on all the tank heaters. He also made sure his fresh water tank was full.

    “Around 32 degrees or below you start worrying because pressure regulators will freeze,” he said. “There’s no if, ands, and butts about that.”

    In Mike Puhac’s RV, he makes sure to cover his windows in thick foil to provide more insulation to keep the heat in.

    “We mark each one, we slide them in place behind the shades, and it gives a little insulation when it comes to cold or hot,” he explained.

    The foils are inexpensive, and he says he bought this latest batch on Amazon, providing an easy fix to hold in more heat. Puhac says he started prepping for the cold snap two days ago by making sure their water tanks were full. They also have a generator if they lose power.

    “We’ve been through the hurricanes we’ve been through the snow, we’ve been through the frost,” he said. “We’ve had this up north it’s fantastic. We don’t worry about it, we just prepare for it.”

    Spectrum Bay News 9 weather experts say the next time it could drop into the 20s in Crystal River is early Monday morning.

    Photojournalist Matt Infante contributed to this report.

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    Angie Angers

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Crystal River’s favorite manatee ‘celebrity’ to attend Manatee Festival

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — The “Manatee Capital of the World” is hosting the 39th annual Florida Manatee Festival this weekend in downtown Crystal River. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The “Manatee Capital of the World” is hosting the 39th annual Florida Manatee Festival this weekend in downtown Crystal River

    • The festival features two days of live entertainment, food, activities and vendors along with guided manatee boat tours and kayak tours

    • “Marley the Manatee,” who locals lovingly describe as a Crystal River celebrity, will also be in attendance


    The festival features two days of live entertainment, food, activities and vendors along with guided manatee boat tours and kayak tours. “Marley the Manatee,” who locals lovingly describe as a Crystal River celebrity, will also be in attendance.

    Tickets are $10 for adults. Children under the age of 12 can get in for free.

    “The Manatee Festival is so important to this community,” said Kim Altman, owner of Explorida Adventure Center in Crystal River. “It draws people in who otherwise wouldn’t know about the manatee.”

    “This is really a great way economically to boost our local economy and get local dollars flowing … in the most fun way possible,” added Jade White, Associate VP of Operations and Outreach for the Citrus County Chamber of Congress.

    Organizers recommend utilizing free parking at nearby Crystal River High School or the West Citrus Government Center. Shuttles to the event are available. 

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    Jeff Butera

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  • Citrus County farm says cold weather will yield sweeter strawberries

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • 2026 events honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day around Tampa Bay

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    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa


    PUBLISHED 12:33 PM ET Jan. 14, 2026
    PUBLISHED 12:33 PM EST Jan. 14, 2026

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Child dies after tunnel collapse near Citrus County park

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    INVERNESS, Fla. — The Citrus County community is mourning after two teens died in what investigators called a tunnel collapse.

    It happened over the weekend near Sportsman Park in Inverness.

    The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office said two 14-year-old boys were digging a tunnel Sunday morning when it collapsed on them.

    Both of their parents called the sheriff’s office when they could not reach the teens around lunchtime.

    Crews responded and administered CPR to both teens and took them to a hospital, where they died.

    The teens were identified as George Watts and Derrick Hubbard.

    Inverness Middle School posted about the tragedy and offered condolences on social media.

    Dr. Scott Hebert, superintendent of Citrus County Schools, says the news about the accident has struck the community.

    “Because Citrus County is a small community, we have students that might be in the elementary level,” he said. “We have teachers that might work with those students that might be at other schools, so we want to make sure that we’re providing that support to all those students.”

    The school says counselors and other members of the district’s Crisis Support Team will be on campus throughout the week.

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  • National nonprofit helps military spouses, veterans enter workforce

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

    What You Need To Know

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • New road data shows Citrus County behind in road repairs

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Negron is not the only one noticing, either.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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