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Tag: Community news

  • USF introduces Brian Hartline as new coach

    TAMPA, Fla. – The University of South Florida introduced Brian Hartline as its seventh coach in program history on Monday.

    Hartline made his way to Tampa this weekend amid Ohio State’s preparation for its College Football Playoff run. 

    What You Need To Know

    • USF introduced Brian Hartline as its new head football coach Monday

    • Hartline, 39, comes to USF from Ohio, were he has been the Buckeyes’ WR coach and offensive coordinator. He will take over fully at USF once the Ohio State plyaoff run concludes

    • More on Brian Hartline and USF football

    “We want to build on this impressive foundation. Things have been going really well here,” Hartline said during his introductory news conference. “We’re not here to change things, we’re here to enhance.

    “Time is now for USF football and we can’t wait to get started.”

    The Bulls new coach will balance beginning his Bulls’ tenure with duties as the Buckeye’s offensive coordinator through the college postseason.

     

    USF CEO of Athletics Rob Higgins, making his first major hire in his relatively new role, said Hartline will bring grit and passion in replacing former coach Alex Golesh, who left USF last week to accept the coaching job at Auburn.

     

    “Brian Hartline was our clear-cut first choice to lead our football program into the most exciting era in program history, and I am so fired up to have him leading the Bulls,” Higgins said. “A relentless recruiter, outstanding developer of talent and a gritty competitor, he comes from a championship background and is obsessed with instilling championship excellence in his players and teams.

    “He is ready to lead our program to the next level.”

    Hartline, 39, said he was excited for the opportunity at USF and emphasized his past connections with the Bay area, Central Florida and South Florida as a NFL player and college recruiter. He added that the location and his history in the region makes USF a good fit. 

    “Our culture will be built on relentless effort. Built on it,” Hartline said. “Effort is a choice and we know that. Our program will be disciplined and accountable. Every detail will matter.”

    HARTLINE AT OHIO STATE

    As offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach, Hartline has led the 2025 Ohio State offense to rank No. 13 in the nation in scoring (37.0 ppg), No. 24 in total offense (438.5 ypg) and No. 24 in passing (267.0 ypg) with Heisman Trophy candidate Julian Sayin posting 3,065 passing yards and 30 touchdowns and Biletnikoff Trophy finalist Jeremiah Smith posting 55 catches for 725 yards and nine touchdowns. Pro Football Focus has Ohio State as the highest graded offense in the nation at the end of the 2025 regular season.

    Serving as co-offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach in 2024, Hartline led the Buckeye offense to rank No. 14 nationally in scoring (35.7 ppg) and No. 3 in pass efficiency (171.55) with quarterback Will Howard ranking No. 6 in passing yards (4,010) and No. 4 in passing touchdowns (35) and Smith standing No. 4 in receiving yards (1,315) and No. 2 in receiving touchdowns (15) nationally.

    A major part of Ohio State’s recruiting success, Hartline has helped the Buckeyes’ current 2026 signing class rank No. 5 in the nation according to 247Sports. Ohio State has ranked among the top five recruiting classes in the nation in each of the last seven seasons. He was named 247Sports national recruiter of the year in 2020.  

     

    WHAT’S NEXT FOR USF

    The Bulls will face Old Dominion Dec. 17 in the Care Bowl in Orlando. USF Defensive Line Coach Kevin Patrick will guide the squad as the interim coach during the bowl week.

    USF will be looking to post a 10-win season for just the third time in program history and the first since going 10-2 in 2017. 

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Lakeland nonprofit helping seniors stay fed among increasing food insecurity

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Imagine having to make the tough decision to pay your bills or buy groceries. Advocates say that’s the harsh reality for many seniors who are navigating not having enough money for food.

    It’s leading some seniors to seek help from nonprofits like Volunteers in Service to the Elderly in Lakeland.

    What You Need To Know

    • Volunteers in Service to the Elderly, or VISTE, is a nonprofit organization that serves at-risk seniors in Lakeland

    • Its supplemental groceries program started over 20 years ago and has since continued to increase the number of people it serves

    • The nonprofit serves people 70 and older


    While most of us get in our cars to head to the grocery store, for seniors in Lakeland, their drive is to VISTE to pick up their monthly groceries free of charge.

    When one cart comes in, another one goes out — it’s a cycle that Welton Morris knows all too well.

    “Every month, once a month,” he said.

    He is one of more than 4,000 seniors who visit the nonprofit to pick up groceries.

    A line forms and volunteers pack each car with the month’s assortment of goods.

    Recently, Welton said he’s found himself relying on this service even more to stock his fridge.

    “The grocery store is so expensive when you go in the store, very expensive, and it’s hard, especially when you’re on a fixed income. It’s hard,” he said.

    Steve Bissonnette is the president of VISTE and said the number of seniors they serve is increasing.

    “We’re averaging about 130 clients each day during the week, almost a 30% increase just in the past few months,” he said.

    The nonprofit’s impact report from last year shows a 9.5% increase in clients. Its supplemental groceries program increased 6.2%, providing groceries to more than a thousand households.

    Bissonnette said that need has increased again in the last few months.

    “We can only attribute that to the environmental circumstances that people are uncertain about and fearful of, and we want to make sure that they at least get basic food to remain in their own home,” he said.

    Most of the food comes from Feeding Tampa Bay, the United States Department of Agriculture and items they purchase.

    Groceries that will go a long way for seniors, like Yoleida Cardona.

    “From an economic standpoint, my husband receives a small amount of money, and this helps us move forward,” she said. “There is also a lot of people in need, and there are those who live on their own that need this.”

    It’s a program that has become a lifeline for many seniors to keep their pantries stocked.

    The nonprofit also has a hot meal program for seniors who are unable to attend the grocery pick-up or cook for themselves.

    Those meals are provided twice a week with the help of Florida Southern College.

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Annual Adopt-A-Family Program aids hundreds of local families, seniors

    CINCINNATI, Ohio —  An annual holiday program that pairs local families and seniors with community sponsors is once again helping hundreds across Greater Cincinnati as the Salvation Army’s Adopt-A-Family initiative ramps up for the season.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Salvation Army of Greater Cincinnati’s Adopt-A-Family Program matches families and seniors referred for assistance with corporate or individual sponsors

    • The program received referrals for 400 families this year

    • De-Bra Kuempel is sponsoring 30 years for their second year with the program

    De-Bra Kuempel, the region’s largest technical, electrical and plumbing contractor, is sponsoring 30 seniors this year. The Cincinnati-based company, which employs between 1,200 and 1,300 workers and operates roughly 800 service trucks daily, is expanding its involvement after first participating in 2024.

    “When the ten people who originally started this last year came back and told everybody how the program worked and the smiles they saw on people’s faces, that is what became contagious,” said Kris Thorne, president and CEO of De-Bra Kuempel.

    The Adopt-A-Family Program matches families and seniors referred for assistance with corporate or individual sponsors. Last year, the Salvation Army distributed more than 18,000 toys and gifts. Thorne said many recipients request basic household needs, such as paper products and essential supplies.

    Major Martha Bone of the Salvation Army of Greater Cincinnati said the organization has secured sponsors for 315 of the 400 families seeking help this year, leaving the remainder on a waiting list.

    “We’ve lost some grants this year for some specific programs that we have concerns about,” Bone said. “But I’m believing, just like at Christmas, people will be flooding our doors to give back. I believe that the need will be taken care of.”

    Thorne said the Adopt-A-Family tradition is becoming a staple for the company. He encourages others to take part.

    “When you see the faces of the people you’re making an impact on, I can almost guarantee you’ll double the participation afterward,” he said.

    Applications for this year’s program have closed, but the Salvation Army is still accepting donations and volunteers.

    More information is available on its website.

    Javari Burnett

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  • St. Pete closing in on downtown trail purchase

    TAMPA, Fla. — St. Petersburg is one step closer to buying a tract of railroad land to convert into a trail downtown, connecting the historic gas plant district to the Pinellas Trail.

    What You Need To Know

    • CSX has agreed to sell its mile-long stretch of downtown land to St. Petersburg for $1 million, according to City Councilman Corey Givens, Jr.  

    • Once approved by city council, nearby businesses will contribute an additional $6 million to construct a trail

    • The trail will connect the Gas Plant District with the Pinellas Trail

    • When it’s finished, the city will lease portions of the trail back to the businesses for 99 years


    “The City of St. Petersburg and CSX have been duking it out, but they were able to negotiate and come to terms of settlement. And this is a win-win for both the city, CSX and the residents in general,” said Councilman Corey Givens, Jr., who represents District 7.

    Once approved by the city council, Givens says St. Pete will purchase the nearly mile-long tract of land for $1 million.

    Ellison Developers will kick in another $2 million and Mark Ferguson, owner of Ferg’s Sports Bar, will contribute $4 million to create the trail. The city will then lease portions back to the businesses for 99 years.

    “This is an opportunity for us to connect First Avenue South with Fifth Avenue North along the Pinellas County Trail,” said Givens. “There will also be an opportunity for you to eat along that trail, for you to live along that trail, there’s so many new developments that’re happening along this area.”

    The goal is to create a kind of “live work play” area around this trail and Tropicana Field, something Ferg’s owner Mark Ferguson believes may keep the coveted Rays around a bit longer.

    “It was a hard decision, but you look over 99 years, what’s going to happen to that area, it’s only going up. This will be a great other factor bringing more people downtown, in a safer and healthier way,” Ferguson said.  

    Givens says the city plans to use “in town community redevelopment area” tax dollars to fund the city’s million-dollar stake. That money, Givens says, could sunset as early as 2032.

    “As I walk this railroad, I feel like I’m walking the steps of my own history,” said Givens.

    The councilman is the fourth generation of his family to live in St Pete. He says his great-great-grandfather laid rail in the area. To be at the forefront of the redevelopment means so much more than any political talking point.

    “For so long, this area has been blighted, it’s been unkept, and this is an opportunity for us to have more than just parking spaces,” Givens said.

    “Just like the Beltline in Atlanta, the more trails you have, the more people will use them. More people will be off the roads and more people into businesses,” Ferguson said.

    Andy Cole

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  • Manatee County agencies providing Thanksgiving meals

    BRADENTON, Fla. — Food banks across the Bay area are helping people in need this Thanksgiving.

    Today, dozens of volunteers in Manatee County are handing out warm meals.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dozens of volunteers in Manatee County are handing out warm meals

    • Meals on Wheels Plus plans on handing out food to more than 400 seniors

    • Food Bank of Manatee County said that during one of their recent events, they gave away more than 700 frozen turkeys and sides to families in need

    The nonprofit, Meals on Wheels Plus plans on handing out food to more than 400 seniors.

    That includes all the regular meal fixings and dessert.

    The organization says they are met with more people needing food every year, so all throughout this week the organization held events to help make sure families had enough for a meal today.

    Meanwhile, the Food Bank of Manatee County said that during one of their recent events, they gave away more than 700 frozen turkeys and sides to families in need.

    Officials said that while they serve families in need every year, there were additional challenges this year. those include the government shutdown and just the overall rising costs of living. 

    “This year, well, this year, I would say it just continues,” said Maribeth Phillips, Manatee’s Meals on Wheels Plus president. “The need continues, and the increased need continues. And that is because of the cost of food. It’s because of the cost of rent and the cost of all kinds of inflationary factors.”

    Julia Hazel

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  • Winston-Salem church hosts community meal on Thanksgiving Day

    WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Jasmine Crawford is among the 50 volunteers that helped make hundreds of meals for the community at Piney Grove Baptist Church in Winston-Salem Thursday.

    “It’s always a blessing to be a blessing,” said Crawford, owner of Jasmine’s Kitchen and Catering.

    The spread included a variety of food, including chicken, green beans, mac and cheese and dessert.

    “We have some apple pie,” Crawford said. “Cinnamon apple pie. We have some sweet potato pie. Also, very delicious.”

    Church members were inspired to create this meal giveaway following the recent government shutdown, where millions of Americans faced food insecurities due to a lack of funding for SNAP benefits.

    “We wanted to be a blessing to any and all within our community, and so this was our way of doing just that,” said Pastor Brandon Helton of Piney Grove Baptist Church.

    Crawford has run her own catering company for seven years. She felt a calling to help her church feed those in need this Thanksgiving. 

    “Nobody wants to sit around a table and think that somebody is not eating today,” Crawford said. “This is something that has been placed on my heart to do. I love cooking, so when I can cook for other people, that’s even better.”

    Any leftovers from the lunch are donated to nearby food shelters. Organizers are hoping to make this an annual event. 

    Zach Tucker

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  • St. Pete launches holiday challenge to boost small businesses

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — This week marks the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

    On Tuesday, St. Petersburg launched a program aimed at driving shoppers to local businesses.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Petersburg launched its Holiday Biz Bingo in the ‘Burg challenge on Tuesday

    • Shoppers can pick up bingo cards at participating stores and get credit for visiting different types of spots and taking part in activities. People who get five stickers in a row can win city-branded prizes

    • Mayor Ken Welch said the challenge was created to help businesses struggling with post-hurricane and economic difficulties

    • The marketing, tickets, and promotion manager with Daddy Kool Records said she thinks the program is a good idea to support local businesses, which she says will benefit the community as a whole


    “These are probably our biggest weeks of the year,” said Ashley Griffith, marketing, tickets, and promotion manager for Daddy Kool Records. “I mean, we have Record Store Day in April, which is very, very big for us, but a lot of our store just relies on Christmas and holiday sales.”

    Daddy Kool is one of the businesses participating in Holiday Biz Bingo in the ‘Burg. Shoppers can pick up Bingo cards at participating businesses and mark off activities and items at places they visit. The goal is to get people to stop at as many local spots as possible. Griffith said they could use the help.

    “We’ve had a difficult year, some may say. We kind of all have in St. Petersburg,” she said.

    Griffith said the store’s relocation from Central Avenue to The Factory St. Pete on Fairfield Avenue South impacted foot traffic, but it faced other challenges as well.

    “You have the ease of Amazon, you have the ease of Target, you have the ease of all these bigger corporations who are kind of affecting and hurting the local business economy,” she said.

    Mayor Ken Welch and Rep. Kathy Castor were among the elected officials who visited Daddy Kool and other participating businesses to launch the challenge. Welch said struggles facing local establishments sparked the creation of Biz Bingo.

    “We’re a year into the recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and a lot of our small businesses are still recovering,” he said.

    On top of that, Castor said tariffs, the rising cost of living, and the potential for increased health insurance costs are other hurdles businesses face.

    “In St. Pete, we know small businesses are the backbone of the economy,” Castor said. “We don’t have a lot of large corporations, Fortune 500 companies. What makes our economy go are the small business owners who hustle every day.”

    As for what kind of boost the holiday shopping season can provide, predictions are mixed. The National Retail Federation estimates that nearly 187 million people will shop from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday. That would be an all-time record. A Deloitte consumer survey also found more people are expected to shop but that spending will be down by about four percent.

    Griffith said one reason shoppers should choose local rather than big box stores or online retailers — it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

    “All of the money we make here, it goes into our hard-working staff, it goes right back into the local music scene, and it stays within the St. Pete economy,” she said.

    Castor also noted that $68 of every $100 spent locally stays local.

    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Busy, though not record numbers of passengers at Tampa International

    TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa International Airport is expecting to see more than 40,000 people pass through the main terminal on Wednesday, as the busiest part of the Thanksgiving travel week kicks in.

    Airport officials said recent upgrades are helping TSA move passengers through checkpoints a bit quicker.

    What You Need To Know

    • TPA expecting 40,000 passengers moving through the facility on Wednesday

    • Airport officials said while TPA will be busy, it won’t be the busiest on record as many travelers were unsure about the shutdown and opted to drive or take a train 

    • CHECK YOUR FLIGHTS: Tampa International Airport

    “Another enhancement that we added earlier this year is our family lanes,” said Dave Stewart, the TSA Assistant Federal Security Director for Screening. “Which we have on every checkpoint as well, that allows families traveling with small children 12 and under to be able to experience a slightly less harried experience as they go through the checkpoint wait period.”

    Also helping speed things up: Every TSA checkpoint now has the newest screening technology. Specifically, the computed tomography X-ray equipment.

    That means instead of wondering which TSA line you have to take out which things, items that previously had to be removed from carry ons, like your laptop, can stay inside.

    A major runway construction project has also wrapped up, which was a source of some delays in weeks past.

    “What was complicated that our team worked through was we were down to a single runway operation for the past few weeks and months because we had construction,” said Ben Robins, VP of Operations for the airport. “But our FA team did a fantastic job getting through that, so we are fully up and running ready for the holidays and good to go.”

    But overall, this won’t be the busiest Thanksgiving for air travel at TPA.

    Travel experts says because of the government shutdown, travelers weren’t sure how predictable flying would be so some decided to drive or take the train instead.

    “This (Thanksgiving) we’re looking at 80 plus million people hitting the highways,” said Sgt. Steve Gaskins, FHP. “And it’s going to be a little exasperated by the airline issues…recovering from the government shutdown. So we’re expecting not only a lot of traffic but a lot of traffic on the highways.”

    Parking is still available at TPA, including in the economy, long term, and short term garages.

    Angie Angers

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  • Impaired drivers can get free tow over Thanksgiving weekend, AAA says

    FLORIDA — AAA is once again offering its Tow to Go program to help keep impaired drivers off the road over the holiday weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • AAA’s free Tow to Go service is available again over the Thanksgiving weekend

    • It is open to members and non-members from 6 p.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Monday, Dec. 1

    • AAA urges drivers to plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use a rideshare, if possible

    • The service will tow the driver and vehicle within 10 miles of pickup

    The service provides a free, confidential ride and tow for impaired drivers and their vehicles to a safe location within 10 miles of where they are picked up. It is open to AAA members and non-members as a safety net when other options, like a designated driver or a rideshare service, fall through and cannot be scheduled in advance.

    Tow to Go will be available starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Monday, Dec. 1 across specific states, including Florida. Those needing the service can call 855-2-TOW-2-GO.

    “Since holiday celebrations can lead to risky choices, AAA offers Tow to Go to prevent those choices from turning into tragedies,” AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins said. “If you find yourself without a safe ride, call AAA and we’ll help get you and your vehicle to a safe place.”

    He urged everyone to plan ahead, however, and designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service or stay overnight, if needed.

    Nearly 4.65 million Floridians and a record 8.1 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period, and nearly 90% of drivers will choose to drive, according to AAA.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • A+ Teacher now teaches at elementary school she attended 

    MYAKKA CITY, Fla. — Melissa Spencer made a career change 18 years ago and has never looked back. She was in accounting but then she went back to school to become a teacher. 

    “It’s what I wanted to do when I switched careers was to be able to make a difference and be that teacher, like the teachers I had,” said Spencer.

    What You Need To Know

    • Melissa Spencer teaches fifth grade made at Myakka City Elementary 

    • She helps her students relate to the material by applying what they’re learning to life

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

    She teaches fifth grade math at Myakka City Elementary. She helps her students relate to the material by applying what they’re learning to life.

    “A lot of times I try to relate anything to money and earning and spending because they are like, ‘oh you’re talking about money I know that.’ It’s a tangible thing to them so it makes sense to them,” said Spencer.

    Spencer is teaching in the school she attended growing up.

    “This is also my home school. I was a student here so I’ve been here a long time and this actually used to be my mother-in-law’s classroom,” said Spencer.

    Before coming to this school four years ago, she taught middle and high school students. Spencer says that helps her prepare her students for what’s to come.

    “I remember being that sixth grader coming from Myakka City that was bussed into town and it was very overwhelming and very daunting. And I don’t want them to feel that way. I want them to be prepared,” said Spencer.

    Jorja Roman

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  • Manatee County resident gives lawn care advice for people during drought

    PARRISH, Fla. — Much of the Tampa Bay area is experiencing moderate drought conditions. In the Sarasota–Bradenton area, while the yearly rain total is only two inches below average, our Weather Experts say a lack of rainfall over the last three months has created these conditions.

    What You Need To Know

    • Much of the Tampa Bay area is experiencing moderate drought conditions

    • In the Sarasota–Bradenton area, while the yearly rain total is only two inches below average, our Weather Experts say a lack of rainfall over the last three months has created these conditions

    • Manatee County resident Allyn Hane has been taking care of lawns and teaching people how to maintain their yards through his business, Yard Mastery, and through his YouTube channel, The Lawn Care Nut

    • Manatee County Water Conservation Outreach Specialist Breanna Bieberich said the conditions are in Phase 1, but it is possible it could move to Phase 2


    For over 20 years, Allyn Hane has been taking care of lawns and teaching people how to maintain their yards.

    He runs his own business called Yard Mastery. He sells fertilizer and other lawn products, but he’s also become a bit of a YouTube sensation. His channel, The Lawn Care Nut, has nearly 600,000 subscribers, and four of his videos have over 4 million views.

    This week, Hane is demonstrating how residents can keep their lawns safe during drought conditions, like what Manatee County is currently experiencing.

    “So what I’m going to do is put the tuna can out right in the (sprinkler) stream, and I’m going to measure how long it takes to get a half inch of water down,” he said.

    Hane said this helps conserve water — you’ll know exactly how long to let your sprinklers run.

    “By putting that tuna can out there and putting your sprinklers on, you wait until it gets a half-inch deep in that tuna can, because that’s what we consider good watering, is one-half inch every couple 2 or 3 days.” he explained.

    The county says there are Phase 1 restrictions currently in place, which limit watering to once a week, but it’s possible drought conditions could worsen.

    Manatee County Water Conservation Outreach Specialist Breanna Bieberich said the conditions are in Phase 1, but it is possible it could move to Phase 2.

    “If we were to move to Phase 2, that would mean residents would be watering less. We would be enforcing our restrictions more heavily. Conservation officers, compliance officers would be out and about making sure that residents follow the rules,” she said.

    Hane also recommends products like Moisture Max that help retain water.

    “What this does is it sequesters water in the soil and helps to keep it from evaporating. So, products like this can make the watering that you’re doing go further, again, because they’re holding that water in the soil,” he said.

    Hane considers himself an educator, and whether it’s rainy season or dry season, almost everyone can benefit from a little lawn care advice.

    Our Weather Experts also point out that in the Sarasota–Bradenton area, 2024 was the second-wettest year on record, with more than 78 inches of rain. That means it will take more time for drought conditions to significantly impact our water reservoirs.

    Julia Hazel

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  • Marc Rimes appears as the ‘Hulk’ to support children

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — A Polk County man is devoting a lot of his time to appearing as “The Incredible Hulk” at local events. Most of the appearances are for charities. Underneath that huge Hulk outfit is a man with a big heart for kids. Marc Rimes has a couple of reasons for that big heart.

    What You Need To Know

    • Marc Rimes appears as the “Hulk” at Bay area charity events. He also works to promote autism awareness

    • Rimes’s son Chance, who is on the autism spectrum, appears with Rimes as Groot from “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies

    • Rimes often appears at events with Superheroes for Hire characters

    • Rimes grew up in foster care and boys’ homes and has a special heart for children who need to feel loved


    On a recent Saturday evening, Rimes appeared as the “Hulk” at the Auburndale Speedway. Lots of small children wanted to give his massive Hulk character a hug. Rimes said he loves seeing the smiles and children’s faces when they see him.

    “I don’t do it to get recognized. I don’t do this for recognition,” said Rimes. “I do this to put a smile on someone’s face.”

    Rimes’ girlfriend Candice Holiday is a big believer in Rimes’ efforts. “It’s mostly the lower-class kids who need that extra boost in life,” she said. “That’s what we do. We come out and put smiles on faces.”

    Rimes said he grew up in boys’ homes and foster care, so he is sensitive to a child needing to feel love. “I grew up in a life where I fought to be loved. And I want to be there for a kid who needs a smile or a hug. I want to be there to give hope,” he said.

    Rimes has a son named Chance who is on the autism spectrum. Chance appears with Rimes at events dressed as the character Groot from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies. Rimes is dedicated to autism awareness. “Everybody needs the awareness. Everybody needs to know we can include our children. Not one child is the same on the spectrum. But they don’t have to be treated differently,” he said.

    Rimes has a sports car decked out with superhero logos and autism awareness messages that he takes to his events. “When you see it come down the road you can’t miss it. It also has my son dressed up as one of the superheroes on the side of the car.” Rimes said his car is part of the Cars Racing for the Dream organization.

    Rimes often appears with other local residents who dress up superheroes. They are called Superheroes for Hire. The group held parades for a terminally ill boy named Braxton Criss. Braxton passed away. At the Auburndale Speedway event, Chance dressed as Groot presented Braxton’s mom Jessica Criss with one of his previous Groot outfits.

    Criss is thankful for what all the superheroes did for her son before he died. “Honored that they gave us memories that we wouldn’t have had otherwise, and they made Braxton’s last moments incredibly special,” she said.

    Rimes was also hailed as a hero recently for running to a neighbor’s home that was on fire and using a garden hose to fight the flames before firefighters got there.

    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Pasco County launching new hurricane relief assistance program

    DADE CITY, Fla. — Pasco County is preparing to roll out a major relief program funded by a $585 million federal Community Development Block Grant, which was awarded following last year’s hurricane season. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County is launching a new hurricane relief assistance program using $585 million from the federal Community Development Block Grant Program targets low- to moderate-income families 
    • The application period opens in December 
    • Funding will help cover past hurricane-related expenses or repairs, and the cost to make new repairs 
    • There is also the Better Future Individual Housing Program, which is designed for residents of Pasco County


    More than half of that funding will go directly to homeowners who have been unable to make essential storm-related repairs.

    For residents like Christopher Rosakranse, the assistance cannot come soon enough. Hurricanes Helene and Milton tore through his property, downing 15 trees, damaging fences, and flooding his yard.

    “The water got so high,” he recalled. “One tree landed on our little mother-in-law suite, and the flooding pulled up our septic a bit.”

    Rosakranse had purchased the home just two months before the storms hit and was left with thousands of dollars in damage. To make matters worse, he says he was unable to secure help from FEMA.

    “I kept getting the runaround,” he said. “It was really hard to get through that system.”

    Pasco County officials say homeowners like Rosakranse are exactly who the county hopes to help through its new Better Future Housing Program.

    “We are trying to explain the opportunity to the public — how we can help them, how they can get involved,” said Chuck Lane, the county’s director of Disaster Recovery Resources. Lane and his team are hosting informational meetings this week to outline eligibility requirements and the types of expenses the program can cover.

    “We really saw devastation county-wide,” Lane said. “We are still seeing a lot of people who are displaced, and those are the people we are going to try to prioritize and get help to more quickly.”

    The Better Future Individual Housing Program is a program designed for residents of Pasco County. It is scheduled to open for applications in December. Qualified homeowners may receive funding for repairs that have already been completed, repairs that are still needed, or other storm-related expenses.

    For details on this week’s public meetings or the application process, go right visit here. 

    Jason Lanning

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  • Federal Shutdown Raises Concerns Over Childcare Funding

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — A brief pause in federal funding left early learning centers across Ohio scrambling to maintain operations, prompting school leaders in Columbus to call for more stable childcare funding to prevent future disruptions.

    What You Need To Know

    • A federal funding pause caused closures and uncertainty at early learning centers across Ohio

    • School leaders said childcare should be funded like infrastructure to withstand federal disruptions

    • Economic losses tied to childcare shortages in Ohio are estimated at $5.4 billion annually, according to the Ohio Chamber of Commerce

    During the freeze, some early childcare programs closed while others struggled to stay open. Staff at the Columbus Early Learning Center said families and educators felt the effects immediately.

    Antywanna Williams, a teacher’s aide whose son attends the center, said the uncertainty would deeply affect young children if access to schools were suddenly cut off.

    “How do you explain to your four-year-old that there is no school?” Williams said. “You have to wait until you’re five years old to go to kindergarten.” 

    Williams said the situation also raised concerns about her own job security and what a shutdown would mean for her family. She said her work is rooted in close relationships with the children in her classroom and their families, and losing that stability would affect them as much as it would affect her.

    Columbus Early Learning Centers CEO Gina Ginn said the funding pause highlighted how dependent early learning providers are on federal dollars and how vulnerable families become when that support stalls. She said the instability also carries a broader economic cost.

    “We are missing out in the state of Ohio on $5.4 billion a year in our economy because families can’t go to work because they can’t find affordable, high-quality childcare,” Ginn said.

    Ginn said the disruption underscored the need to treat childcare as core infrastructure—similar to roads, water systems and K–12 schools—so centers can withstand fluctuations in federal support. Without stable options, she said, families face long-term barriers.

    “It really is the foundation and the backbone of families being able to work. And then also create pathways out of poverty,” she said.

    School leaders said they are now evaluating how local funding structures could be modernized to prevent future shocks to early learning programs.

    Saima Khan

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  • Bay area center offers counseling as mental health diagnoses spike in seniors

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — With an increase in the number of senior citizens being diagnosed with mental health conditions, the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas wants those 60 and older to know free mental health counseling is available.

    What You Need To Know

    • Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas offers free mental health counseling for 60 and older

    • The program provides screening, assessment, in-person and virtual mental health counseling

    • Fair Health reports 57.4% increase in mental health diagnoses for seniors 65 and older 


    “There’s a lot of pressures that seniors are dealing with or experiencing, whether that’s cost of living, isolation or loneliness, especially since COVID, grief, losing a spouse, a loved one,” said Director of Programs at Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Christine Didion. “Seniors can receive talk therapy with a licensed mental health counselor. We’re able to do either telehealth or meet with them at a senior center that might be close to them.”

     Pinellas County resident Robert Palin, 81, has been seeing a mental health counselor through the program since 2022.

    “I just felt that a mental health counselor would be helpful in adjusting to the aging process for me, because I have a neuromuscular disability and hearing loss and sight loss, and even my voice is changing. I have difficulty negotiating large groups, public spaces,” he said.

    Palin is not alone. There’s been a more than 57% spike in mental health diagnoses in those 65 and older between 2019 and 2023, the most recent data from Fair Health. The most common are anxiety and depression. And there was a nearly 36% increase in adults 51 to 64.

    “When we lose our ability to do what we did for decades, we get depressed often,” said Palin, who says support has made a difference. “I feel more accepting of what it means to decline.” 

    He adds it has made a difference in self-confidence.

    “Bringing out what you can do. I can still play the piano. I still play chess. I still am fascinated and curious about so many subjects,” said Palin.

    The free mental health counseling program is provided through funding from the Older Americans Act.

    Melissa Eichman

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  • Bay area foster mother provides safe space for young human trafficking survivors

    TAMPA, Fla. — Karen Bowen is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving. The foster mom has been a caregiver to more than 300 kids over the years and many return for the holidays.

    “I want them to feel that this is home, no matter what,” said Bowen. “This is home.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Children’s Home Network provides in-depth training so parents can support young victims of human trafficking
    • Karen Bowen helps foster children find themselves again after recently receiving Safe Home Licensing
    • Nine children that were recovered during “Operation: Home for the Holidays” were placed in a Hillsborough County group and safe homes


    Bowen recently completed in-depth training through Children’s Home Network that concentrates on caring for young victims of human trafficking.

    “I have to make sure that you feel safe, so when you walk back through this door, I’m giving you a hug,” said Bowen. “I’m not asking you any questions, because when it’s your time to talk with me is your time. My goal is also to help bring back the dignity that you think that you may have lost.”

    Bowen helps her foster children find themselves by providing more than a bed to sleep in.

    “I’m here to give you the support, the guidance, the love and the opportunity to rebuild yourself,” Bowen says of making sure to connect foster children with support services that include mental health counseling and connecting with case managers and peer support from those with lived experience in human trafficking. 

    Some of the 122 missing and endangered children recently rescued during Operation Home for the Holidays are rebuilding with help from a designated Safe Home like Bowen’s.

    Tianay Lewis with Children’s Home Network helped place nine of those children in a Hillsborough County group and foster homes. She said the in-depth training that Safe Home Parents receive is essential.

    “All of our training focuses on trauma and loss and risk factors that our kids have from trauma in their lives,” said Lewis. “They would learn about what potential indicators are of a child who might be trafficked. Safety, obviously, is a huge part of it, responding to trauma responses.” 

    Bowen’s hope is that foster kids get support they need to find new confidence and start a new life.

    “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t survive through this,” said Bowen. “You’re a survivor. You’re survivor.”

    Survivors, Bowen wants to make sure have a place to call home.

    Melissa Eichman

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  • Booming agritourism business helps small Florida farms

    LAKELAND, Fla. — More farmers and ranchers are embracing agritourism opportunities on their properties. It’s a way to incorporate recreation and educational experiences. The agritourism industry has helped generate billions in Florida alone, according to the latest census of agriculture.

    What You Need To Know

    • Farms and ranches generated $1.26 billion in agritourism in the U.S. in 2022, the latest Census of Agriculture
    • Fancy Farms was started in 1974, and its market opened six years ago
    • The market, open October through June, is located at 5204 Drane Field Rd. in Lakeland


    What started as a strawberry farm has now transformed into a spot the community can enjoy.

    Kristi Grooms Barnes is the president of the Fancy Farms Market. She and her brother Dustin Grooms opened the market six years ago to continue to share their parents’ legacy and her family’s homemade goods.

    She says something they pride themselves on is sharing things she and her brother grew up with. “We have branded this after my mother DD, as Fancy Dee’s preserves, jams and relishes,” Barnes said.

    The market has since expanded to serve lunch, and recently they decided they would open two months earlier than prior years.

    They consider the market a form of agritourism for the farm.

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture describes agritourism as a commercial enterprise that links agricultural production with tourism.

    For Fancy Farms, this concept has been a plus. “It’s another revenue stream for our farm, and we’re able to get more people to the farm,” she said.

    The latest Census of Agriculture reports that about 57% of U.S. counties reported agritourism income.

    Barnes said the farm is a member of the Florida Agritourism Association, and the family serves on the board, because they see the growing demand.

    “We’ve seen a shift in this agritourism, and people want to get outside. They want to see where their food comes. They want to connect with the land,” she explained.

    Simon Bollin is the Agribusiness Development Manager with UF IFAS extension.

    He said agritourism has increased on small to medium-size farms, rather than on large-scale properties.

    “It does definitely help out local farms. It gives them another source of income and direct to retail, direct to consumer ability to market,” Bollin said.

    Barnes said agritourism is helping shape the future of farming, making more people aware of what goes on behind the scenes.

    “The education side is really important to us to show people there’s a lot more that goes into farming than it just showing up on your plate at dinnertime,” she said.

    Sharing what the farm has to offer so that everyone can enjoy it.

    The menu at Fancy Farms Market changes to incorporate new flavors, and in December, they will kick off the strawberry season.

    The market is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Jesuit student launches project to honor veterans at American Legion Cemetery

    TAMPA, Fla. — At the American Legion Cemetery in Tampa, Drew Garcia is saving lives. He’s piecing together the stories of veterans who are on the verge of being forgotten.

    “I’m putting their stories back together,” Garcia said.

    American Legion Cemetery President Alyse Duffy said the need to remember these veterans is critical.

    “The quote is, ‘A person dies twice.’ Once when they give up their life and the second time when they’re forgotten forever,” Duffy said.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tampa resident Drew Garcia is on a mission to tell the stories of all 732 military members buried at the American Legion Cemetery

    • With the help of his partner, Paige Wilson, Garcia calls the project “American Bios“

    • Garcia and Wilson have uncovered the stories of about 20 veterans so far, but they’re hoping to find others who are just as eager to do some sleuthing of their own


    A year ago, Garcia began searching for a research project. Since he was a history buff, Duffy suggested Garcia research the lives of the veterans buried at the American Legion Cemetery. When he was younger, Garcia said he always wondered about the cemetery he would pass along Kennedy Boulevard.

    With the go-ahead from Duffy, Garcia started delving into the life of each military member. He thought he’d only tell the story of a couple of veterans.

    “But I realized that’s not fair,” Garcia said. “It’s important all their stories are told.”

    Now, he’s on a mission to tell the stories of all 732 military members who are buried at Tampa’s American Legion Cemetery.

    “We have a spreadsheet and I just scroll, scroll, scroll and I click them,” Garcia said.

    After randomly picking a veteran to research, Garcia goes through census data, military records, marriage documents — whatever he can find. He even reaches out to family members. Then, Garcia shares each story with whoever will listen.

    “Not all of them served for the same amount of time, but their service is so incredibly important in making America what it is today,” Garcia said.

    He calls the project “American Bios.”

    His partner, Paige Wilson, came up with the name. She’s now in charge of the online Instagram presence. 

    “I feel so connected to each of these veterans that I research because I learn their life story,” Wilson said.

    But sometimes, there are gaps.

    Like Private Frank Marson, for example. He fought in the Spanish-American War in the late 1800s and there are not a lot of records about his life.

    “I see evidence right there of someone’s story who isn’t as properly told as it should be because it’s been so long, and so it really drives me to want to get things done now,” Garcia said. “Research them today.”

    So today, the work continues.

    “I feel so humbled to be surrounded by these heroes,” Garcia said. “I want these people’s stories to be so famous that someone can just be looking online and stumble upon the story of their great grandparent. That’s how popular I want these people to get.”

    Garcia and Wilson have uncovered the stories of about 20 veterans so far.

    They have put the pieces together like a puzzle.

    “It’s so cool,” Garcia said. “There’s no other word for it.”

    But the couple needs some help. They’re both graduating next year.

    And while Garcia will continue to lead the project, they’re hoping to find others who are just as eager to do some sleuthing of their own.

    Garcia said he wants to make all 732 veterans famous. And one day, he wants their stories shared in the Library of Congress. It’s all an effort to keep the veterans buried at American Legion Cemetery alive.

    Dalia Dangerfield

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  • Commissioner deny request for taller rebuilt Thunderbird Beach Resort

    PINELLAS COUNTY. Fla. — Treasure Island city commissioners denied a request this week from owners of the Thunderbird Beach Resort to allow them to build back taller.

    The landmark hotel has been closed since Hurricane Helene.

    What You Need To Know

    • Treasure Island city commissioners denied a request this week from owners of the Thunderbird Beach Resort to allow them to build back taller

    • The owners of the historic site said that damage from Helene and Milton was catastrophic and that 80 percent of the property has substantial damage

    • Nearby residents asked commissioners not to allow the Thunderbird to increase its height and density

    The owners of the historic site said that damage from Helene and Milton was catastrophic and that 80 percent of the property has substantial damage. The waterfront property spans nearly two acres along Gulf Boulevard.

    Resort owners said earlier this year they planned to demolish it and build a new resort. Nearby residents asked commissioners not to allow the Thunderbird to increase its height and density.

    Some residents said they wanted the city to craft a new master plan before making such changes.

    Ricky T’s General Manager Joseph Roth, located across the street from the hotel, said he is looking forward to the hotel reopening someday. Roth said this year’s “Sanding Ovations” festival, which starts today, will test the impact of the Thunderbird’s closure on surrounding businesses.

    “Being here for 15 years, I had the flow of people pretty down pat where I could tell you on a dime exactly what we’re going to do,” Roth said. “Now, we’ve got to re-evaluate what we’re doing and what the business flow is going to be, see how much of an impact that’s really going to be on the island and on our business itself, being right across the street.”

    Meanwhile, Treasure Island Vice Mayor Tammy Vasquez requested the city put out a request for qualifications for a master planner.

    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Arrival of manatee season generates excitement among residents and visitors

    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — As the weather starts to cool, manatees are migrating toward warmer waters.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee season has arrived in Citrus County as cooler temperatures sweep across Tampa Bay

    • It’s an important time of year for the local economy, with well over a million people expected to visit Citrus County this year
    • Just in time for the season is the newly renovated underwater observatory at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park, a fixture that has been at the park since 1964
    • Citrus County is the only place where visitors can get in the water and swim with manatees


    It’s a big boost for business and the local economy in Citrus County. The arrival of manatee season is generating a lot of excitement.

    Near the waters of Homosassa Springs, visitors try to catch a glimpse of one of Florida’s most beloved marine mammals. 

    “Last week started manatee season for us — November 15,” said Auvis Cole, Director of Tourism for Discover Crystal River. “At a place like Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park, you can come here and not only see manatees, but you can see an assortment of animals and everything.”

    Manatee season has arrived at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park. An important time of year, says Cole. He expects they will see well over a million people visiting this year.

    “We bring in a lot of people and the good thing is it’s all about being sustainable and eco-friendly,” he said.

    Just in time for the season is the newly renovated underwater observatory, a fixture that has been at the park since 1964. It’s an engineering marvel for its time and still today.

    “The schools of fish and then, of course, when the manatee comes in, it’s great,” said Cole. “It’s a way to experience it on a different level.”

    Elsewhere in the park are other prime viewing areas.

    “I think we’re the only industry that looks forward to having cold weather,” said Traci Wood, owner and captain of Homosassa Manatee Snorkeling Center.

    Wood knows these waters better than most, including where the manatees like to gather.

    “They come in here and they have a sanctuary that is right over here, where humans don’t get to go,” Wood said. “So the manatees get to go in there and stay warm and stay away from humans if they want to.”

    It’s also the only place where visitors can get in the water and swim with the manatees.

    “When you get in the water, right in front of them or right next to them, you really get an idea of one — how big they are, two — how gentle they are, and three — they can be really silly and playful and fun,” she said. “It really blows people away. It’s really amazing.”

    An experience unlike any other.

    You can see manatees up close for yourself at the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park. Manatee season runs now until March 31.

    Calvin Lewis

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