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Tag: Community news

  • Horace West leads Haines City youth football programs for decades

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Youth league football is a big deal in the Polk County community of Haines City.

    There is one name that is synonymous with that. It is Horace West. The former mayor of Haines City has dedicated decades to making sure young athletes get a chance to play the sport they love.

    West is now affiliated with the Haines City Vipers, a youth football program he started. West got his start in local youth football by starting the Haines City Rattlers in 1991.

    Over the years, he has started about 20 other football programs in other local communities. He also started a youth football conference with dozens of teams.

    These days, West is more of an advisor rather than a coach.

    “I’m old enough to be everybody’s dad or grandfather, so I just give them advice,” said West.

    West has helped to mentor several players who ended up playing in the NFL. That includes Los Angeles Chargers’ safety Derwin James. For West, the goal of football is bigger than just athletics.

    “Because we are trying to teach young boys how to be young men. So that’s the key,” he said.

    West’s coaches put their players through tough practices and hope for success in games. But respect is more important.

    “The coaches talk to them like drill sergeants, but they understand they can’t use profanity, touch them in any harsh way or anything like that,” West said.

    West said he wants to make sure that the football program has longevity. So, he is always looking for new community members to get involved.

    “My philosophy is that you have to recreate yourself. You have to reinvent yourself every so many years,” he said. “Because if you don’t, the program dies with the people who ran it.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • New pilot program aims to repair Polk County homes after disasters

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — Just off of East Main Street, George and Diane Flood have seen their fair share of storms over the last 30 years.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new pilot program is helping repair homes for Polk County’s most vulnerable residents—including low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners

    • George and Diane Flood benefited from the program after their insurance claim was denied following damage from Hurricane Milton

    • The initiative, led by Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, is currently repairing 12 homes and aims to become a permanent solution for Polk County


    “Charley — that’s the only time that we really had it so bad that we had to use the insurance, but the other times it’s been just tree limbs or something like,” Diane said.

    That was until Hurricane Milton caused significant damage to their roof and ceiling. Diane says their insurance company denied their claim due to the age of the roof. The couple eventually had to take matters into their own hands — which they said was no easy feat.

    “It was the emotion of August happening, and we’re on a fixed income and we only get so much money every month,” Diane said. “Even the roofing companies that we were trying to reach out to, it was like… the cost of it every month, you just can’t add another bill on top what you’re already trying to struggle to pay anyhow.”

    Luckily, Diane says they were referred to Rebuilding Together Greater Florida’s (RTGFL) Disaster Readiness and Recovery Program. The new initiative helps repair and fortify homes for low-income, elderly, and disabled residents at no cost to them.

    “They replaced the whole roof, but that flat roof was where the main issue was at and so they got that taken care of,” George said, pointing at a portion of their roof.

    The Floods’ house is just one of 12 homes included in the pilot project. CEO of RTGFL, Jose Garcia, says his team brought their services to Polk County after local leaders expressed a need.

    “Polk County is one of the counties that is experiencing great growth, which means existing housing needs that need to be resolved to make sure it stays affordable for present generations,” Garcia said. “So, we want to make sure the homeowners are safe and can stay at their home, especially in this growth.”

    As for Diane and George, they’re grateful to have a stable roof over their heads once again.

    “The rainfall sounds a whole lot better when you can sit and enjoy it,” Diane said.

    The pilot program is funded by several foundations, corporations, and municipalities. Rebuilding Together hopes to make it a permanent resource for Polk County residents.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Local church leaders call for justice after incident involving Bartow officer

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    BARTOW, Fla. — African Methodist Episcopal (AME) churches across the Tampa Bay area are calling for justice after they say one of their leaders was racially profiled and harassed by a Bartow police officer.  

    Pastor Don’Tavius Sanders of St. James AME Church stood beside fellow leaders as they spoke in his defense on Thursday.

    Leaders say Pastor Sanders was driving from the church around 1:37 a.m. Sunday following a memorial service when Bartow police officer Darren Freeman pulled him over for a broken license plate light.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pastor Don’tavius Sanders was pulled over by a Bartow police officer, who leaders say searched his vehicle without cause and called in a K-9 unit

    • AME church leaders from across the Tampa Bay area are calling for justice and demanding changes to the Bartow Police Department’s procedures.

    • Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker acknowledged the situation could have been handled better, apologized to Pastor Sanders, and said he’s investigating the incident.


    They say Freeman forcefully searched Sanders’ vehicle for narcotics without cause and called in a K-9 unit for backup. Nothing was found, and no citations were issued — leaving Marvin Zanders II, the presiding bishop of the 11th Episcopal District, with questions.

    “What would precipitate in the mind of this officer that a K-9 unit is needed at this venue?” he said. “If you search my name, you see I have no outstanding warrants, no priors dealing with drugs, or any of those other things.”

    Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker agrees the incident could have been handled differently and believes communication played a role. He says Officer Freeman is new to the job and may have been scared at the time.

    According to a police report, Freeman said he attempted to issue two citations for Sanders’ tag light and window tint, but the option to print the citations was unavailable on E-Cite. While the use of a K-9 unit during the traffic stop was permissible under the law, Chief Walker says he has since modified the department’s policy.

    “To make it more stringent — that there has to be something articulable that you can say, that there’s a nexus to narcotics or paraphernalia, or the subject has it,” he said.

    Walker says he is also investigating the incident between Officer Freeman and Pastor Sanders. He even spoke with Sanders after Thursday’s press conference to express his dedication to the case.

    “I take it seriously. I want you to know that. And by all means, I apologize to you for how you were treated,” he said. “I do welcome you to the table.”

    Pastor Sanders accepted Walker’s apology and invitation, but says he wants to see more.

    “It’s going to take more than words for me. It’s going to take more than words, so I want to see it in action,” Sanders said.

    He and other AME leaders are urging the chief to implement body and dash cameras. They’re also calling for better sensitivity and de-escalation training to ensure what happened to Pastor Sanders doesn’t happen again.

    Chief Walker says he is looking into making body and dash cams a reality and plans to implement additional changes to the department’s policies.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Guide to 4th of July fireworks, events across Tampa Bay

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is commemorating the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain in 1776 and establishing the United States of America. It is often celebrated with family and friend gatherings, barbeques, parades and fireworks.

    Tampa Bay is ready for the holiday with an array of parades and firework shows for all ages. Here’s a county-by-county list of events that are happening around the area.

    All events take place on July 4 unless otherwise stated.
     

    Citrus County

    • Patriotic Evening
      July 3, 5 p.m. | Liberty Park
      The city of Inverness will be hosting its annual fireworks show over Lake Henderson. The event will feature musical performances by Mock of Ages: The Ultimate Def Leppard Tribute and Smokey Jones and The 3 Dollar Pistols. There will also be vendors and plenty of family-friendly activities.
    • 4th of July Celebration
      4 p.m. | Kings Bay Park
      Join the city of Crystal River for a 4th of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, games, kids’ activities and a fireworks show over Kings Bay.

     

    Hernando County

     

    Hillsborough County

    • Boom by the Bay
      4 p.m. | Tampa Riverwalk
      The city of Tampa’s annual 4th of July festivities will encompass The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works, Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf and the Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River. The event will offer live entertainment, a pickleball tournament and food trucks.
    • July 4th Boat Parade
      5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Sparkman Wharf
      Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat. This year’s theme is “Salute to Service,” to celebrate military heroes with a patriotic display on the water. There will also be a water ski show and fireworks.
      VIEW MORE INFORMATION IN OUR BOAT PARADE GUIDE

    • 4th of July Celebration
      July 4 – July 6 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
      Enjoy Independence Day festivities at Busch Gardens, featuring complimentary beer samples, live performances and a fireworks show choreographed with an arrangement of music and lights.
    • Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America: July 4th Festival
      1 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
      Get ready for an day filled with food, contests and live entertainment, culminating in a patriotic drone show at sunset. There will be an after party until 11 p.m.

     

    Manatee County

     

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    • The Fourth
      July 4, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Family Park on the St Pete Pier 
      July 5, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Throughout St Pete Pier
      The city of St. Petersburg’s annual fireworks show returns with live performances, vendors, food trucks and a family fun zone. Fireworks will be visible from the entire downtown waterfront. (Note: activities vary each day)
    • Clearwater Celebrates America 2024
      5 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Coachman Park
      There will be a free, patriotic performance throughout Coachman Park. Guests can enjoy local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities and live music.
    • Treasure Island 4th of July Fireworks
      9 p.m. | Treasure Island Beach
      Celebrate America by watching fireworks light up the sky over Treasure Island Beach. The best viewing areas will be near the Gulf Front Park area of the beach located at 10400 Gulf Blvd.
    • 4th of July Parade & Celebration
      10 a.m. | James Ernst Park
      The event, presented by the Town of Kenneth City and the Kenneth City Police Department, features a day of food, live music, vendors and more. The parade starts at Gabe’s 46th Avenue North and 66th Street North, then down 46th Avenue North to James Ernst Park.
    • 4th of July Picnic in Craig Park
      10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Craig Park
      Bring the family to enjoy live music, a water slide, live music, inflatables, lawn games and more.
    • The city of Gulfport’s 4th of July Celebration
      10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Tomlinson Park
      Officials stated that due to extensive damage sustained in the downtown area, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show is canceled. The city will instead host a 4th of July Community Parade and Picnic at Tomlinson Park. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a viewing spot. There will be live music, food, children’s activities and more.

    Polk County

     

    According to our Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologists, the Bay area will see high rain chances for the 4th of July. Be sure to download our Spectrum News app to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in your area and track the weather with our Klystron 9 radar.
     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • PHOTOS: Protesters gather across Central Florida for nationwide demonstration

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Thousands of protests took place nationwide Saturday in what organizers called “No Kings Day.”

    The protests come in response to President Donald Trump’s military birthday parade. 

    Organizers said they want to defend democracy. Several people rallied in cities across Central Florida to participate in the demonstrations.

    Take a look at our photo gallery below:

    One demonstration got underway in Orlando late Saturday afternoon.

    “This is time for us to come together as a country and we need to heal, we need to work together,” attendee Sandra Henry said.

    Also part of the crowd, Democratic State Representative Anna Eskamani of Orange County.

    “The energy is wonderful,” she said. “I mean this is such a reflection of who we are as central Floridians.”

    Eskamani also said she is using this time to enhance voter registration efforts.

    Other cities in Central Florida also saw demonstrations, including where Casselberry hundreds of people showed up Saturday morning.

    “There are more of us than there are of them,” attendee Beth Reeser said.

    The Orlando demonstration is expected to run until 7:30 p.m.

    As those protests took place, supporters of President Trump came together to celebrate Flag Day, as well as President Trump’s 79th birthday.

    “I just believe that we should be out here showing support for our president, because a nation divided cannot stand, that is Abraham Lincoln’s words,” Madeira Beach resident Matthew Harris said. “I’m a good conservative. I don’t call myself Republican, I don’t call myself anything. I’m a patriot, whoever is good for our country, that’s who I vote for.”

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    Devin Martin, Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Mallory Nicholls, Curtis McCloud

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  • Juneteenth celebrations across Tampa Bay for 2025

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after former President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.

    The day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, where Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free — two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — which had become official January 1, 1863.

    Today, Juneteenth is celebrated to reflect and recognize achievements in the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities that will be taking place around Tampa Bay.

    Citrus County

    Hernando County

    Hillsborough County

    • City of Tampa Annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony and Festival
      Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | City Center at Hanna Avenue
      Join Mayor Jane Castor and community members as they gather to raise the Juneteenth flag. There will be free food and various vendors.
    • Juneteenth Cultural Celebration
      Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
      Prepare for a community celebration featuring art-making activities, live music and performances, photobooth experience, gallery discussions, local vendors, and more.
    • Arts Legacy Remix
      Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. | Straz Center – Jaeb Theater
      Arts Legacy Remix celebrates the different cultures and talented local artists who reside in the Tampa Bay area. The group is putting on its fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration, featuring spoken remembrances, writings of historical importance and an original performance of music, poetry and dance.
    • Tampa Police Juneteenth Summer Block Party
      Thursday, June 19, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Perry Harvey Sr. Park
      This event will feature local vendors, nonprofits, special recognitions and raffles. 
    • Juneteenth Film Celebration
      Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
      The film celebration will exhibit local Tampa Bay area films, filmmakers and actors. There will be several previews, short films and features showcased at the event. The event is free, but requires pre-registration online. 
    • Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival
      June 16 – 21, 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
      This is a multi-day festival featuring a youth summit, a “Cultural Couture Ball,” a public discussion about issues within the community, a family fun day at Topgolf and celebration featuring DJs, vendors and dance performances. The events are free, but it is a ticketed event.

    Manatee County

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    Polk County

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    DeJanae Phillips

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  • Construction on new Skybrooke Elementary School nearing completion

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    LUTZ, Fla. — Construction on a brand-new Pasco County school is nearing completion.

    What You Need To Know

    • Skybrooke Elementary will be Pasco County Schools’ newest K-8 school located in Lutz

    • The school is designed to occupy a full capacity of 1,800 students with ten classrooms per grade level, making Skybrooke one of the largest schools in the county

    • There will be an emphasis on STEM courses with an aerospace aviation pathway being laid out for middle schoolers

    • Seats are still available for K-7th grade school-of-choice students to sign-up, with the last window opening on Monday


    Skybrooke Elementary will serve as Pasco County Schools’ newest K-8 school starting next school year. The goal is to ease overcrowding with this new school that’s “designed” to be different.

    Serving as the school’s principal will be Michele Boylan, who is coming from Bexley Elementary with years of experience as a teacher and administrator.

    “We’re excited to see this space come to life,” said Boylan. “I’m super excited to lead this school and provide opportunities for students starting in VPK all the way through 8th grade.”

    The school is designed to occupy a full capacity of 1,800 students, with ten classrooms per grade level. That makes Skybrooke one of the largest schools for K-8 in Pasco County.

    The hallways of Skybrooke are also without a usual feature.

    “There’s no more lockers!” said Boylan. “Kids are carrying their materials, but not all, because we also understand that can be a lot. Teachers strategically set up storage areas to keep curriculum in the classroom and in an organized way so students have their books with them.”

    The school is taking a fresh, modern approach to education in the district thanks to recommendations from parents and staff. That includes a concentration on STEM courses and athletics.

    “We are starting with an aerospace aviation pathway for middle schoolers,” said Boylan. “We’re also working, over the summer, with a group of teachers to plan ‘what does that look like starting in kindergarten? How do we embed the skills and the knowledge that these kids will need for aerospace and aviation?’”

    It’s an ambitious plan, helping shape the minds of tomorrow’s critical thinkers.

    “We want to start kids off with their school experience just loving coming to school,” said Boylan.

    Boylan says there are still seats available for those school-of-choice students to sign-up. Seats are available for K-7th grade.

    The last school of choice window opens on Monday.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Local students inspire smoking ban in Haines City

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — In Haines City, a park is more than just a place to play — it’s a safe haven for youth in the community.

    What You Need To Know

    • Students with Polk Students Working Against Tobacco inspired a new ordinance banning smoking and vaping in Haines City’s public parks

    • The ordinance aims to create a cleaner, safer environment for families and youth

    • While violators may face fines up to $500, city officials emphasize education over punishment


    “Youth are going to find something to do, whether it’s something positive or negative. So here in Haines City, we strive to provide outdoor basketball courts, playgrounds and recreational amenities to give youth opportunities to get out, instead of getting into trouble,” said Terrell Griffin, director of Parks and Recreation.

    Griffin has served as the city’s Parks and Recreation director since 2018. He says even before taking the job, he had a clear goal — to enhance Haines City’s outdoor spaces.

    “We’ve been able to add some additional parks. We’ve added an aquatic facility, and just maintaining what we have — it’s very important to maintain the infrastructure while adding new amenities to that inventory,” he said.

    City leaders have also introduced a new ordinance banning smoking and vaping in public parks.

    The ban was inspired by a presentation from students with the advocacy group Polk Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT). Members Troy Livingstone and McArthur Sanders say they’re excited to have been part of the change.

    “It makes me feel great knowing that my generation and the generations to come are not only going to be nicotine-free but also smoke-free in general,” Livingstone said. “It allows for a more positive environment, allows everybody to have a safer environment — because who doesn’t want a safe environment?”

    For Griffin, the ordinance is personal. He lost his father, a lifelong smoker, to cancer.

    To help protect the health and wellbeing of others, his team is installing “No Smoking” signs throughout the area. Violators could face fines of up to $500.

    “In those extreme cases where we ask an individual to stop smoking and they refuse to do so, usually PD is already going to be on site. But in most cases, it’s not about trying to get anybody arrested or fined,” Griffin said.

    Instead, Griffin says the ordinance serves as a reminder that health and safety are the city’s top priorities.

    The city’s ordinance falls under Florida’s 2022 Clean Air Act, which authorizes local governments to restrict smoking in public parks and on beaches.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Manatee County leaders to lay groundwork for superintendent search

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Manatee County School Board members hope to make crucial steps Tuesday in the search for the district’s next superintendent.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Manatee County School District is home to 42,000 students and continues to grow

    • In May, the board voted 3-2 to terminate the contract of former Superintendent Dr. Jason Wysong

    • The district has had four superintendents in less than 12 years 


    Board members plan to pick a consulting firm that will help facilitate the search and then set the timeline that the search and interview process should follow.

    Charlie Kennedy, who represents District 3, says the board is working towards having a new superintendent selected and contract signed by the start of school on Aug. 11.

    Kennedy says his top priority is to the find the highest quality person for the job that they can.

    “It would be nice to have somebody in by the start of the year because that way you’re kicking off the school year with new leadership,” he said. “But the most important thing is getting it right.”

    This is what Kennedy called a “compressed” timeline — given the search two years ago that netted Dr. Jason Wysong as the superintendent — took between seven to eight months.

    Wysong kept the top spot for just shy of two school years, before the school board voted 3-2 to terminate his contract last month.

    His termination agreement states he will be employed with the district through mid-August but only as an “Administrative Transitional Consultant.”

    Manatee County has struggled to find stability with superintendents over the last 12 years. Between 2013 through 2018, both Rick Mills and Diana Greene only stayed for a few years each. In 2018, the district decided to forgo a nationwide search instead hiring Deputy Superintendent Cynthia Saunders to take the spot. Saunders was serving as interim superintendent at the time and soon after she took over was accused of inflating graduation rates.

    She then announced her retirement in 2022, and the most recent exhaustive superintendent search kicked off.

    Kennedy says it’s important to him that the new superintendent has experience within the state of Florida, but it doesn’t need to be experience within the Manatee County School District itself.

    “The Florida education landscape is just such rocky terrain with finance and education law and the culture war stuff that’s still bubbling out there,” he said. “So you need someone who can handle all of that. I’m going to keep an open mind. I just want to see us cast the widest net we can.”

    There’s at least three consulting firms that have submitted proposals to head up the superintendent search.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Eight years later, an answer to that message in a bottle

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    BRADENTON BEACH, Fla. –  When Paris Hoisington and her family found a message in a small bottle on the beach last month, it seemed the story had ended with the bottle’s 4,600-mile, eight-year journey.

    But now, the Hoisingtons have heard back from the message sender.

    What You Need To Know

    • Payton Hollenbeck said she tossed the bottle into the ocean 8 years ago in Oahu
    • Josie Law, 11, found the bottle in May off Cortez Beach on Anna Maria Island
    • The message inside the bottle had a phone number, which the family texted and got a response 
    • The family plans to release their own message in a bottle before returning to Michigan 
    • CLICK ON THE VIDEO LINK ABOVE TO WATCH THE FULL STORY

    Peyton Hollenbeck of Hawaii said her younger brother wrote the message but they put down her phone number, hoping to hear back one day from someone oceans away.

    Hollenbeck, now 21, said she and her younger brother Elias, tossed that bottle into the ocean at Kaena Point in Oahu eight years ago.

    “I just remember doing it because I had been walking on the beach at my favorite surf spot and I had seen a message in a bottle,” she said in a new interview. “There was no phone number but my brother and I were like, ‘Oh we should just go make one ourselves for fun.’ “

    Paris Hoisington, 31, and her daughter Josie Law, 11, point to the area on Cortez Beach in Manatee County where the girl found a message in a bottle on Sunday (Spectrum News/Josh Rojas).

    The note inside the tiny bottle reads ‘Hello people who found this, you will be happy that you found this. Why? Cause you will know me with this number.’

    Hoisington said she texted the phone number and got a response.

    “’My brother and I made that when I was younger,’” she said the text read. “’We actually live in Hawaii.’ And I said, ‘You’re kidding.’” 

    Hollenbeck said she’s familiar with that cycle because the only reason she threw a message in a bottle into the ocean is because she had previously found one as a kid.

     

     

     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Popular Holmes Beach shopping center to hold grand reopening after Helene

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Jennifer Moore owns her beach shop, Sun and Surf, that has been in her family since 1983.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hurricane Helene flooded Jennifer Moore’s business with roughly four feet of water, damaging nearly everything inside

    • After months of hard work and repair, she has reopened Sun and Surf

    • A grand reopening event is taking place Friday, June 6 at the Island Shopping Center to celebrate all businesses
    • The event runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.


    “So I grew up here. I was 11, and I was in the store after school. I would come in and do little projects,” she said.

    And now that’s the same hope for her kids.

    But at one point, it was hard to imagine if this place would still be here.

    Hurricane Helene flooded her business with roughly four feet of water, damaging nearly everything inside.

    Moore says she knew it was going to be tough to recover from all that was lost in the storm.

    But with hard work and dedication, repairs were made, and she just reopened her store last month.

    “We were closed for eight months. It was extremely difficult. But we powered through it and we got through it at the end, and we conquered it,” she said. “It made us stronger in all, and hopefully better. It was like this upgrade we all got at once.”

    She says neighboring stores in the Island Shopping Center started opening up more recently, which prompted her to organize a grand reopening celebration for all stores in the plaza to take place Friday, June 6 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m..

    She wants to highlight the businesses’ resiliency to bounce back after the storms and let shoppers know they’re open for business.

    “This is like a second home, this plaza. I come here every day. And this is just a feeling of home where I grew up. And now my children are growing up. And how all these different businesses and the community — how we’ve all come together,” she said.

    Moore is ready for this next step, coming out of rebuilding and bringing the community together once again.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Local groups push to bring senior center to Lakeland

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — Through the doors of College Heights United Methodist Church, the Rath Senior Connextions Center runs its daily operations, working to meet the needs of seniors across the city.

    What You Need To Know

    • Despite seniors making up over 20% of Lakeland’s population, the city does not have a dedicated location for them

    • Rath Senior Connextions and their partners have been working for years to establish a senior center, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible support for older residents

    • The city of Lakeland has pledged $100,000 toward the creation of a senior hub, but only if community groups can match it


    Inside, calls from community members roll in throughout the day. Longtime volunteer Charlie Burdette says those calls range from people needing a ride to those looking for housing.

    “We get such a variety of things, and then we get really hard things,” Burdette said. “It is particularly difficult for seniors who have moved here and don’t know anything about the resources available — and even people who have lived here all their lives aren’t aware of them.”

    Executive director Dr. Rose Marie Lamm says she created the Rath Senior Connextions Center for that very reason. Before starting the nonprofit 21 years ago, Lamm says seniors in Lakeland didn’t have a place to go for resources or services. Fast-forward to today, she says in many ways, the need is still the same.

    “We don’t have a central center where people can go physically and hear about actual services that are available,” she said.

    Despite U.S. Census data showing that residents age 65 and older make up more than 20% of Lakeland’s population, Lamm says the city is one of the few areas in the Tampa Bay region without a central location for senior services.

    After years of pushing for a senior center, the Lakeland Senior Hub — a collaborative initiative that includes several groups, including the Rath — got the chance to present a plan to city commissioners in 2024. However, Lamm says the idea received mixed reactions from leaders.

    “We already have services for seniors. We have services, but nothing is coordinated. And how are people supposed to find things when they’re not coordinated?” she said. “And remember, we also have to keep in mind that seniors aren’t all online. It’s hard for younger people to even begin to understand that. So, we had to present that, and I’m not sure it was completely understood.”

    Ultimately, city officials agreed to a $100,000 contribution on the condition that the Senior Hub can match the funds. Now, the Rath and its collaborative partners are working to raise the money to bring the center to life.

    But Lamm says they’ll need the community’s help.

    “Any amount would be wonderful,” she said.

    In the meantime, volunteers like Burdette will remain by the phone, continuing to connect with those who rely on their support.

    To learn more about how you can support the Lakeland Senior Hub, visit their website.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Haines City community raises concerns after weekend flooding

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Concerns are growing in one Polk County neighborhood just days after several inches of water threatened homes during a storm on Sunday. 

    What You Need To Know

    • People living on Georgene Road say floodwaters from Sunday’s storm took days to recede and caused property damage

    • Resident Amanda May believes runoff from new construction is worsening flooding near her home

    • Polk County plans to discuss the issue, but May says action should have been taken sooner


    Inside her home, Amanda May tried to find a little joy in the midst of a difficult week.

    “Surprising my daughter with a little graduation surprise when she gets off the bus,” she said.

    To celebrate, May decorated her dining room with streamers and photos of her 13-year-old daughter, Bailee. She said it was a small way to lift their spirits.

    “You know, I’m trying my best,” she said. “The one thing I don’t want to do is lose my house. That’s my biggest fear.”

    May says her late husband purchased the home on Georgene Road before he died of cancer in 2015. Since moving in, she says she hadn’t experienced any issues — until her home flooded during a storm last year. It happened again on Sunday, and this time, she says the water damaged her walls.

    “It was water all in my floors right here, and then I noticed my drywall started bubbling up,” she said inside her bedroom. 

    May believes the flooding was caused by runoff from a new housing development behind her property. She says she has reached out to the county several times in recent months, but has been frustrated by the responses.

    “I can get flood insurance, raise my yard, put in drainage, or sell my house,” she said.

    The Polk County native says she’s already done most of what officials suggested — and more — but nothing has worked.

    According to Polk County’s upcoming stormwater agenda, leaders plan to discuss flooding on Georgene Road. But May wishes they had acted sooner. 

    “I think they should’ve done this when I called them the first time last year. Why wait now, when I have damages to my house? And who’s going to help me pay for it?” she said. “This is their fault. This is someone’s responsibility — putting damage to my house — and now I have to pay for it.”

    Spectrum Bay News 9 reached out to Polk County regarding May’s concerns. We are still waiting for their response.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • A new superintendent tops to-do list for Manatee school officials

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — The school year is ending for students and teachers, but Manatee County school officials will be busy this summer.

    The school board’s first order of business is finding a new superintendent.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Manatee County School Board is looking for a new superintendent 

    • Last week, the board voted 3-2 to terminate the contract of former Superintendent Dr. Jason Wysong

    • The Manatee School District is home to 42,000 students and continues to see significant growth

    Last week, in a meeting that caught several members of the school board off guard, the board voted 3-2 to terminate the contract of former Superintendent Dr. Jason Wysong.

    Despite praise about increased graduation rates and improvements in educational metrics across the board, even from board members who ultimately voted for his removal, complaints about poor communication from Wysong won out.

    Wysong was hired in May 2023.

    The school board has scheduled a meeting Thursday to begin discussing the future of the position. Right now, current District Chief of Staff Kevin Chapman is serving as interim superintendent.

    Chapman said despite the shake up, it’s still business as usual as the school year comes to an end.

    “The school board is talking about starting that search here soon,” he said. “Probably get a new permanent superintendent in by the start of school by August. But for right now we are plugging right along, finishing strong. Finishing the school year strong.”

    “And spending the summer doing all the work of planning a budget, summer school, getting our schools ready to get back to school.”

    And among the challenges that await the new superintendent are redistricting and transportation complaints.

    The Manatee district is home to 42,000 students and continues to see significant growth.

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    Jason Lanning

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  • Lacoochee Elementary’s Odyssey of the Mind team makes school history

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    LACOOCHEE, Fla. — Lacoochee Elementary made history last week when the school’s Odyssey of the Mind team competed in the World Finals for the first time ever, and placed in the top third of teams.

    What You Need To Know

    • Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition, but there’s not one right answer to the problem; students must work together to create the solution

    • Students from Lacoochee Elementary School compete in the World Finals in Michigan 

    • Lacoochee Elementary’s team placed in the top third of teams, taking 20th place in the world


    Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition, but there’s no one right answer to the problem as students must work together to create the solution.

    The World Finals were hosted in Lansing, Michigan, this year, and students raised enough money to pay for the whole team to go thanks to generosity from the community.

    “Welcome to NASA gym located on the Planet of Fitness where you can get jacked and muscular, just like me,” said one of the students as they rehearsed their performance for the World Finals.

    The students of Lacoochee Elementary School’s Odyssey of the Mind team are taking you on an intergalactic trip to the Planet of Fitness, and these students had to plan, and create, every aspect of how to get here, solving various problems along the way.

    “Odyssey of the Mind is a teamwork and problem solving creativity program that’s national where students can learn skills that they’re going to need later in life that may help them in their careers,” said Kyara Prezmorales, who just finished fifth grade.

    While some larger schools have nearly a dozen teams, Lacoochee Elementary School has just this one, and this is the first team that’s ever made it worlds.

    “Lacoochee is a little school that is majority poverty but we like to say here, our staff and our principal especially who grew up here in Lacoochee, is that doesn’t define who we are as a school,” said Sadi Avants, who is one of the coach’s for the Odyssey of the Mind team.

    Coaches Avants and Ryah Taggerty say Prezmorales and the team worked hard on their performance since October, competing, and winning, at both regionals and the state competition, never letting their demographics define them, like their principal teaches them.

    “Having everything come together, I could not be more proud of them. We definitely were emotional,” said Taggerty.

    Prezmorales says she’s proud to be a part of the team that made it all the way, hopefully setting a new precedent for the Odyssey of the Mind teams here at Lacoochee Elementary, that you don’t have to be large to be mighty.   

    More than 750 teams from all over the world, ranging from elementary to college age, competed at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals this year.

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • A new kind of housing for those in need

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The Bay area’s affordable housing crisis impacts a variety of people across the region.

    According to Community Assisted & Supported Living (CASL) President Melissa Larkin-Skinner, 31,000 people in Florida experience homelessness. And about a quarter suffer from some kind of mental health issue.

    The goal of a new housing development in Winter Haven is to ease those numbers.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Bay area’s affordable housing crisis impacts a variety of people across the region
    • A ribbon cutting took place Tuesday at Jersey Commons, Polk County’s newest affordable living community
    • Community Assisted & Supported Living (CASL) President Melissa Larkin-Skinner said this type of housing and services can help with several issues

    A ribbon cutting took place Tuesday at Jersey Commons, Polk County’s newest affordable living community.

    Tri-County Human Services, in partnership with Blue Sky Communities and CASL, is opening its new 68-unit apartment community in Winter Haven. Fifteen of those units are designated for high-need indviduals. 

    The other 53 units will be home to others for those experiencing homelessness or living with disabling conditions. 

    Larkin-Skinner has been in the behavioral health treatment field for 30 years. She said this type of housing and services can help with several issues.

    “People can’t fully take advantage and thrive with the services, the mental health treatment services, when they don’t have a safe place to be, or live or lay their head and they are constantly wondering, ‘Where am I going to spend the next night? When I am going to eat again?’” said Larkin-Skinner.

    Get more information on Jersey Commons by visiting its website.

    Jersey Commons is Polk County’s newest affordable living community. (Spectrum News/Fadia Patterson)

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    Fadia Patterson, Jason Lanning

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  • Areas throughout Pasco County seeing significant population boom

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Sean Sweat runs Lake Hollingsworth with flags to honor veterans

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — A Lakeland man is a beloved familiar sight around Lake Hollingsworth. Sean Sweat stands out for a patriotic reason.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sean Sweat is a firefighter and Army veteran

    • He has been running around Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland with a flag for 15 years to honor veterans

    • Sweat starting running with the flag to honor his old platoon leader who was killed by an IED in Afghanistan

    • Would you like to nominate an Everyday Hero? Click here.


    For the past 15 years, Sweat has been running around the lake with a big American flag. Sometimes he also runs with the flags for the various branches of the military. He does it to honor veterans.

    Sweat said he starting his flag runs around Lake Hollingsworth to honor his old platoon leader, Capt. Josh Byers, who was killed by an (improvised explosive device) IED in Afghanistan.

    “The freedoms we have in this country, people take for granted. They don’t realize the price that is paid,” he said.

    Sweat will be making his way around Lake Hollingsworth on Memorial Day. But he will have to walk instead of run because he is recovering from hip replacement surgery.

    He is determined to keep up his tradition despite the temporary physical setback.

    “It goes back to my time in the service. Especially with my old platoon sergeant,” he said. “He would always tell us, ‘You know, if you can still feel pain, you can still move. Which means you can still finish the mission.’”

    Sweat says he mostly gets very positive responses to the flags as he runs.

    “I’ve had some people hanging out of the windows screaming. Some of the college students and I actually have some of the locals. I’ve had people hang out of their cars waving at me,” he said.

    Sometimes folks walking around the lake strike up a conversation with Sweat. That’s what Shanti Waite did. She is especially enthusiastic about honoring veterans because she has three female cousins serving in the military.

    “Anytime I see anyone willing to serve the country, show that dedication and patriotism and acknowledge. It is always something that I honor and respect,” she said.

    Sweat has also developed friendships with people who admire what he does. That includes retired Navy Cmdr. Charles Waldron, who would salute Sweat from his house across the street from the lake as Sweat ran by.

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Citrus County officials monitoring rapid population growth to ensure stability

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

    But Bays said work is being done.

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

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

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

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

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Hernando County rescinds countywide burn ban

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    TUESDAY, MAY 13 UPDATE:

    Hernando County officals have have lifted a county-wide burn ban for all unincorporated areas of Hernando County. 

    “Hernando County has seen adequate precipitation accumulations resulting in a significant drop in the Keetch-Byram Drought Index,” officials said in a news release on Tuesday.

    Residents can resume burning within the setbacks and regulations set by the Florida Forest Service.
     

    MONDAY, MAY 12 UPDATE:

    Hillsborough County on Monday rescinded the burn ban for the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county.

    “Due to the recent heavy rainfall and projected weather conditions, an outdoor burn no longer poses a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of County
    residents,” the county said in a news release.

    County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today. To read the Executive Order, visit https://hcfl.gov/residents/stay-safe/emergency-orders. County officials will continue to monitor the conditions and update residents as needed.

    While the burn ban order has been rescinded, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reminds residents to always take steps to prevent fires.
     

    PREVIOUS UPDATES TO THIS STORY:

    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – As the dry season continues across the Bay area, more counties are issuing burn bans.

    Hillsborough County issued an emergency burn ban Friday on all outdoor open burning in all areas of the county.  

    In a news release, the county said: “Warm temperatures and dry conditions have combined to increase the danger of wildfires in our area. The only exceptions are a constantly attended barbecue grill for outdoor cooking, certain agricultural enterprises in eastern and southern Hillsborough County that can dispose of agricultural plastic through controlled burns, and burning that has been specifically allowed by the Florida Forest Service. “

    County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today, April 25, 2025. Under the executive order:  

    • A local state of emergency is declared. 
    • All outdoor open burning is prohibited.  
    • The order bans fireworks and sparklers. 
    • Outdoor grilling is allowed, as long as the flames are contained within a grill, and the fire is constantly attended. 

    By law, the order can be in effect for no more than seven days. If conditions persist, the order can be extended.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hillsborough County is the latest to issue a ban, issuing it on Tuesday.

    • Citrus, Hernando, Polk and Pasco counties also are under a burn restriction from the Florida Forest Service. Pinellas County does not have a burn ban, but open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round

    • Florida Forest Service: Enacted Burn Bans

    Hillsborough County’s decision comes just days after Manatee County issued its own ban.

    “We are deeply concerned about the ongoing hot and dry conditions that have significantly increased the risk of wildfires in our community,” Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse said Tuesday. “We urge all citizens to remain vigilant, adhere to the restrictions, and exercise caution during this period.

    Emergency Managers point out that the ban includes items containing any “explosive compound,” sparklers, any item or product using or containing any amount of pyrotechnic composition, flares, open burning and campfires because of the increasingly dry conditions in the county.

    Manatee County’s ban is in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 29.

    Citrus, Hernando, Polk and Pasco counties also are under a burn restriction from the Florida Forest Service. Hillsborough and Pinellas counties do not have burn bans but open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round.

    The burn ban prohibits:
    • Campfires
    • Bonfires
    • Unpermitted controlled burns
    • Burning yard and household trash
    • Burning construction debris
    • Burning organic debris
    • Igniting fireworks and
    • Noncommercial burning of materials other than for religious or ceremonial purposes, in which case they must be contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit, and the total fuel area cannot exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.

     


    “In an abundance of caution and after looking at all the information provided, we have decided it is necessary that we issue a burn ban,” said Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “We are experiencing widespread dry conditions across Polk County that leads to the increased potential for wildfires. So, to minimize the risk and help ensure the safety of all Polk County residents and visitors along with our public safety members, we ask you to be a good neighbor and adhere to the ban while it is in effect.”

    Anyone who refuses to comply or violates this burn ban will be in violation of Polk County Ordinance 08-015 and can be punished by a fine not to exceed $500 or by imprisonment not to exceed 60 days in the county jail or both. 

    Smoke/Air Quality

    The Keetch-Byram Drought Index

    The burn ban is determined using the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI). The KBDI is a continuous reference scale, ranging from 0 to 800. It assesses the moisture content from no moisture deficiency (0) to maximum drought conditions (800) of the soil. This helps predict the potential for wildfires.

    Utilizing the KBDI, the process of a burn ban begins once more than 50% of the county reaches 500 on the index. Polk County’s current daily reading is 55% over the 500 benchmark with a countywide average of 503.

    FIRE DANGER INDEX


     

     

     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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