Tag: Community news

Pasco County’s ‘MADE’ shop sells products from Florida entrepreneurs
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NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A small business owner in New Port Richey is using his retail space to highlight other entrepreneurs in Florida.
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MADE – Artisan Hall sells products from over 50 small businesses in Florida

Its owner, Nathan Ward, opened MADE – Artisan Hall on Oct. 27

Ward leases out portions of his store to small Florida businesses for about 6 months and receives 15% of each purchase
Seeing the fruits of your labor can be such a unique experience.

For Nathan Ward, it’s the surrounding creativity each day that brings him the most joy. And there’s something about retail, according to Nathan, that he can’t get enough of.

“I started at Albertson’s, Winn-Dixie, Target, Publix,” Ward said. “So retail has kind of been my background since high school.”

Even though he was born deaf, that never stopped Ward from working and enjoying life.

“I mean, do what you know,” he said.

In 2019, he left his job at Publix and started his own candle making business.

“Pandemic hit, so it was a very, very slow start to do that business,” Ward said.

According to the National Library of Medicine, small business activity took a nosedive in the spring of 2020, with more than 3 million owners having to close their doors during that time.

But Ward’s love for small businesses got his creative juices flowing.

When he learned about a building in downtown New Port Richey that was for lease, he thought of a different kind of business that not only benefits him, but other entrepreneurs in Florida.

“It just kind of gave us all, you know, a little bit of a bump and keeping our business going,” Ward said.

He opened MADE – Artisan Hall, which exclusively sells products from over 50 small businesses in Florida that wouldn’t normally have retail space outside of weekend farmer’s markets.

“It was all word of mouth and it just spread like wildfire,” Ward said.

He rents space inside his shop for those businesses, and he gets about 15% of profits.

He learns as much as he can about each product so he can share the personal stories behind the objects.

“I’ll ask them some questions, or they just tell me everything that I need to know and you just kind of start to remember all you can about them,” Ward said.

He says those personal touches are why he loves working with local business owners in Florida.

“There’s always, always something new and creative,” said Ward. “You know, I could never tie a bow tie.”

Aside from profits, Ward says the greatest part about his shop is being able to show people his disability doesn’t hold him back.

“I actually had a deaf customer come in last week and when he realized I was the owner of the business, he was like, ‘You own the store’? I was like, ‘Yes,’” Ward said. “He goes, ‘That’s amazing.’ You don’t see very many deaf business owners like that.”

A fruit from his labor that makes his success sweeter than ever.

MADE – Artisan Hall opened its doors on Oct. 27.

Each vendor signs a six-month lease to rent a piece of the store to showcase their products.

Most of the products are from businesses in the Tampa Bay area, with a couple from places like Gainesville and Miami.
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Nick Popham

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December 6, 2023
USF releases 1st renderings of its new on-campus stadium
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TAMPA, Fla. — With “genuine excitement,” the University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its planned on-campus stadium.

The Board of Trustees met Tuesday morning to receive an update on the plans after the university terminated a design-build agreement, and it opted for a more traditional construction management model.
What You Need To Know

USF released renderings of its planned on-campus football stadium

Groundbreaking for the stadium is expected in fall 2024

The first game played at the new stadium is set for August 2027
So far, the school has raised more than $43 million of its $50 million goal for the stadium project. That includes a $6 million gift from the USF Federal Credit Union to name the walkway that will lead into the main entrance of the stadium, where the football team’s traditional pregame Bulls Stampede will take place.

“To me, it’s just the next step in the evolution of the whole university, quite frankly, as an important engagement tool that will bring us together as one USF better than ever before,” said Michael Kelly, vice president of athletics.

The stadium, which is scheduled to open in fall 2027, will include:
- An east-west build to help maximize shade for daytime events.
- A dedicated section for students in the west end of the stadium that includes a design featuring Bull horns and amenities that will cater to the student experience.
- An open concourse around a majority of the stadium that provides views of the field, even as fans are walking to concession or restroom areas.
- A large tailgating space on the north side of the stadium.
- A variety of premium seating options, including suites, loge boxes and club areas.
The University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its new on-campus stadium.

USF officials said the initial renderings are conceptual and will develop as the design process continues and more elements are finalized. The design process included feedback from students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.

“Since we first announced plans to build an on-campus stadium at the University of South Florida, it has become the topic I hear about most often from our passionate supporters. There is a genuine excitement within our community,” USF President Rhea Law said. “We’re thrilled to offer the first images of the stadium that will activate our campus in ways we never have before and will make a positive impact on our university for generations to come.”

Students at USF are excited about the new stadium, and one pointed out that even if they won’t still be attending USF by the time the stadium is built, it will give them a reason to come back.

“My dad graduated in ’96 so I’ve been coming to games. I went to my first game when I was 3 years old and ever since then I’ve been coming back,” Alisha Kurian said.

In a picture her dad took at her first game, you see Kurian sound asleep in her seat. She said being a Bull is a family affair.

“I think that giving students their own stadium, and student-athletes a space to call their own to play in, not only is that a great thing, but also alumni having a reason to come back to campus for games and for that environment really elevates the whole USF experience,” she said.

Kurian said even though she won’t be a USF student when the stadium is built, it will give her and her dad a reason to keep coming back, and keep their tradition alive.

“He absolutely cannot wait,” Kurian said. “He’s probably more excited than anyone else. I know and he’s hoping I have three younger siblings, so maybe one of them will be here when the stadium is built.”

Signature signage will showcase the newly named USF Federal Credit Union Champions Way, located off USF Genshaft Drive.

The University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its new on-campus stadium.

“Our university will proudly feature one of the nation’s most beautiful and community-centered stadium entranceways,” USF Foundation Chief Executive Officer Jay Stroman said.

Stadium planning committee co-chairs Stroman and Kelly said the next major steps are to release more detailed stadium renderings in spring 2024 and to hold a groundbreaking ceremony in fall 2024.
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Spectrum Sports Staff

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December 5, 2023
Citrus County business owner reopens bike store after tornado
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TAMPA, Fla. — A Citrus County business owner has a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
What You Need To Know

Sparky’s Green Rides was damaged last month by tornadoes

Business owner Ryan DeLarco had just reopened after Hurricane Idalia first damaged the store earlier in the year

DeLarco says customers contributing to his second store helped him rebuild his first store again
Despite his bike shop being destroyed by last month’s tornado, Ryan DeLarco is back open for business. His gears are spinning in excitement over welcoming customers back.

He couldn’t forget how Sparky’s Green Rides looked after a tornado did its damage last month.

“The ceiling was hanging. I got some leaking going on,” DeLarco said. “The whole roof was missing, all the facia, the soffit. This is usually full of 150 bikes at all times, but we had to take everything out so it doesn’t get destroyed by the storm.”

Compare that to now and you can tell he’s put a lot of work into getting things rolling again.

“As you can tell before, when you guys were in here, we had the hole ceiling. The last 10 feet of the ceiling was all hanging down. Had to re-drywall the whole place and get it all re-established. We also added some new paint. Added some new color to the shop,” he said.

This was the second time DeLarco had to rebuild his bike business. Flooding from Hurricane Idalia tried to wash it away earlier in the year, but he says he’s come back better both times.

“We’re about to have a grand opening, but we are officially open at two locations,” he said.

So when it comes to selling bikes in Citrus County, DeLarco says he has a new slogan:

“Ain’t no tornado, hurricane, or flood gonna stop Sparky’s Green Rides.”
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Trevor Pettiford

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November 25, 2023
Former Bay area resident produces ‘Journey to Bethlehem’ movie
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TAMPA, Fla. — A Christmas musical titled “Journey to Bethlehem” opens in theaters this week. It was co-written, co-produced and directed by Adam Anders, who spent his high school years in Lakeland. While Anders was taking his high school classes by correspondence courses, he also studied bass at the University of South Florida.
What You Need To Know

Sweden native Adam Anders spent high school years as jazz prodigy at USF

Anders came up with “Journey to Bethlehem” movie idea while visiting wife Nikki’s family in Iowa at Christmas 17 years ago

Antonio Banderas stars as king Herod

Anders says he attempted to stay true to the Biblical nativity story in the musical
Anders has spent the past couple of decades as a successful music writer and producer, selling more than 100 million records. He often collaborates with his wife, Nikki.

Anders said he came up with his original vision for the movie while visiting Nikki’s family at Christmas in Iowa about 17 years ago.

“There was nothing to watch,” he said. “There was no Christmas movie, especially about the nativity, which is what Christmas is about. That’s when I first had the idea: I’d love to do a musical to tell what Christmas is about through song.”

One of the stars of the movie is Antonio Banderas, who plays the part of king Herod. Anders lightheartedly said he stalked Banderas in Spain, where Banderas was leading a stage production. He went to several of the productions before he got a few minutes to make a pitch for the movie part.

“He was snapping his fingers in the show all the time and changing the lighting,” Anders said. “And he was doing this thing, and I was blown away because before I ever met him or thought of him, king Herod in my movie snaps his fingers.” That coincidence helped Anders convince Banderas to be in the movie that was already set to be filmed in Spain.

Christian rap star Lecrae plays the part of the angel Gabriel in the movie. “And I thought it would be incredible to have angel Gabriel embodied in this guy who has this presence, who is also one of the humblest, kindest men I have met,” Anders said.

The movie is a combination of music, drama, a love story and even humor. Even though creative license is used in the story, Anders said he attempted to be faithful to the Biblical nativity story.

Anders is hoping “Journey to Bethlehem” will be an annual tradition for the entire family.

”It really is a reminder of what Christmas is all about in a way that whether you are a believer, whether you’re not, whether you just celebrate Christmas or you just love musicals, it’s for all of you.”
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Rick Elmhorst

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November 9, 2023
Citrus Co. boutique plans to give profits to charities
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LECANTO, Fla. — Since she was a toddler, Kathleen Stayton has had a fascination with sewing.
What You Need To Know

A Citrus County woman has opened a boutique where she plans to donate the money she makes to two charities in Florida

The boutique, called Victoria Boutique, is named after the owner’s daughter who died in a car accident in 2021

The boutique opened in late October and, once all the materials inside are sold, the owner plans to convert the space into a crafting classroom or a place for sewing lessons
She said her mom would tell a fun story of when Stayton first saw her mom use a sewing machine.

“I was five or six years old and leaning on [the counter], watching her sew and broke the hinge off of it because I was just so into it, I had to have my little eyeballs up where she was,” Stayton said.

It wouldn’t take long for her to start sewing herself to the point where she began doing it professionally at just 15 years old.

Over the years, the passion, according to Stayton, has somewhat faded.

“Now it’s like work,” she said.

According to her, it’s work in more ways than one.

She still sews and does alterations for a living in Lecanto.

It’s work that keeps her going, but she says it’s not what defines her.

First and foremost, she’s a mom, and that’s what’s fueled her latest project that’s in the same space where she sews.

On top of her full-time job sewing, Stayton opened up a new boutique right next door named after someone who means the world to her.

“Victoria Boutique,” Stayton said. “I named it after my daughter.”

Almost two years ago, on Christmas Eve, Victoria died in a car accident. She was just 33. It shook Stayton down to her core, saying it caused her to rethink what’s important in life.

“It makes me shift my priorities that nothing mattered to me more,” Stayton said. “I could have, I would have given everything I own, everything I ever would own to have her back.”

So, rather than open a boutique and solely focus on this business, she decided that the proceeds from the boutique would be donated to two charities — the Florida Baptist Disaster Relief and The Priceless Journey in Odessa.

“If I sell it and I could donate the money, that could do some good,” Stayton said.

Which is why she continues to sew, because this is how she gets an income.

She works upwards of 12 to 13 hours a day sewing and running the boutique.

Even though she’s tired, she doesn’t mind the long hours when it means seeing the dozens of pictures of Victoria that line her walls.

“I got her all over the place so that a lot of people can see her,” Stayton said. “We miss her so much.”

With each thread and each alteration, Stayton’s passion for her daughter’s legacy keeps her business that’s doing so much good going.

Stayton says she also sells Larimar jewelry in her boutique.

She held her grand opening for the business on Oct. 27 and hopes to convert the space into a crafting classroom or a place for sewing lessons once all the merchandise is sold.
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Nick Popham

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November 9, 2023
Things to do around Tampa Bay for Veterans Day 2023

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By

Spectrum News Staff

Tampa

PUBLISHED 9:30 AM ET Nov. 08, 2023
PUBLISHED 9:30 AM EST Nov. 08, 2023

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Spectrum News Staff

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November 8, 2023
Fox squirrels meet match at Plant City fall farm festival

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TAMPA, Fla. — Charlotte Weronik knows how to find her way out on the farm.

“If you do the maze correctly it’ll be one mile,” she explained, “It is five acres. It has a lot of twists and turns and little stops with scarecrows and mirrors and tables and decorations that you can take nice pictures in.”

The fifth grader volunteers here at the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze in Plant City.

She hasn’t missed a weekend, and she helps set up too.

She looks through the hundreds of little funky gourds near their pumpkin house, which clearly a witch lives there. “When pumpkins feel really light and hollow and they have all these spots, it means that they are going bad,” said Weronik.

Her next job? Weronik drops a peace offering.

“I am putting sunflower seeds around the base of the tree,” she said.

That’s because it will distract the fox squirrels from eating all the pumpkins.

“It’s a very good snack for them, but this kind of distracts them from that,” Weronik said.

Set up also calls for someone to test the equipment, so she bounces on the jump pad under large oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

“Sometimes it’ll be way too puffed up that it’s very hard or it will be very floppy and hard to bounce on, but right now, it’s pretty good,” Weronik explained.

Weronik discovered this Florida-style fall celebration thanks to her aunt and the event organizer, Lisa Steward.

“I like helping her with flowers and unloading pumpkins like I am right now,” Weronik said.

She’s the only 9-year-old kid she knows with her advanced seasonal celebration skills.

“It’s a very unique experience and it’s quite fun,” Weronik said.

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Virginia Johnson

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October 31, 2023
A+ Teacher to be inducted into FACA Hall of Fame
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INVERNESS, Fla. – Larry Bishop has been in the Citrus County School District for 33 years.

He’s currently the activities director at Citrus High School, an expansion of the athletic director role he’s had for more than a decade.
What You Need To Know

Coach Larry Bishop has been in the Citrus County School District for 33 years

Bishop is the Activities Director at Citrus High School

Bishop also coaches softball
The school and district have a special place in his heart. He graduated from Citrus High School.

“When I was a freshman in the fall of 1980, my dream was to come back to Citrus High School,” Bishop said. “So to be able to do that, and this is my 33rd year within the school district, I couldn’t be happier.”

Bishop also coaches softball. It’s a role he truly enjoys.

“There are so many things, not just academically but athletically and life lessons that can be taught on the field that can’t necessarily be taught in the classroom,” said Bishop.

“Coach Bishop is always somebody that I can look up to because he just inspires you to do better and he pushes you to be the best version of yourself,” said Kaylin Smith, a junior at Citrus High School.

Bishop has been in the district for so long that he’s gotten to know generations of families.

“We have generations of people that come through our school system and I know I’m dating myself but I’m coaching kids of kids that I’ve coached,” said Bishop.

Paisley Williamson is one of those kids.

“It’s just nice to have somebody that has been here for so long that understands the school, understands the students,” said Williamson.

Coach Bishop is being honored for his positive impact on students and athletes. He has been chosen to be inducted into the Florida Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

“Serving on the board of directors at FACA, I’ve gone to a lot of induction ceremonies. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be chosen,” said Bishop.

Bishop was chosen for his dedication to high school sports and the athletes who play them.

That’s also why he was nominated to be an A+ Teacher. Coach Bishop will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony in January.
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Jorja Roman

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October 31, 2023
Spooky shenanigans get underway in Tampa Bay for Halloween

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By

Spectrum News Staff

Tampa

UPDATED 11:47 AM ET Oct. 18, 2023
PUBLISHED 4:59 PM ET Oct. 11, 2023
PUBLISHED 4:59 PM EDT Oct. 11, 2023

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Spectrum News Staff

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October 18, 2023
Citrus County Sheriff’s Office to offer free firearm safety course
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CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A free, basic firearms course will soon be available for residents, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday.

CCSO, in partnership with Outpost Range, designed the Firearms Safety Training Program for those with limited or no prior firearm experience and incorporates a blend of classroom instruction, live-range exercises, firearm handling, manipulation exercises and recent changes to concealed carry statutes.

Upon successful completion of the course, attendees will attain a CCSO Basic Firearms Safety Certification. There will also be opportunities for further firearm skill development and knowledge enhancement through advanced courses, officials said.

“I am excited to provide our citizens with this opportunity to learn about firearm safety – the safe handling of a firearm is critical for everyone to know,” said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast in a statement. “This course will not only educate citizens on the proper techniques of firearm use, but will also allow them to practice hands-on with a certified firearms instructor and ask questions.”

Requirements to join the firearms safety program include:
- Must be 21 years of age or older, unless you are a service member or a veteran of the Armed Forces who was discharged under honorable conditions
- Must be a U.S. citizen and resident of Citrus County
- Must bring a state-issued photo ID or drivers license the day of event
- Must wear pants or slacks, full size shirt, closed-toe shoes. A baseball style hat is optional
- No red shirts, shorts, or tank tops will be allowed
- Handguns, ammunition, and targets will be provided. Please do not bring your own
- Eye and hearing protection will be provided, or you may bring your own if preferred
The available course dates are on Nov. 19, Dec. 10, Jan. 7, 2024, and Feb. 11, 2024. All courses will run from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Outpost Range.

Space is limited. To sign up, visit the CCSO website and click on Firearm Safety Course under the Programs and Services tab.
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Spectrum News Staff

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October 17, 2023
Authorities: Fatal Spring Hill shooting stemmed from home invasion
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SPRING HILL, Fla. — The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a suspect in a Spring Hill shooting that left one person dead and another injured.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Marquette Street just after 5 a.m. Wednesday to calls of a shooting. Officials said later Wednesday during a news conference that the incident began as a home invasion.

Details have not been released.
What You Need To Know

Hernando County Sheriff’s officials searching for shooting suspect

One person killed, another injured in shooting at Marquette Street home in Spring Hill

Anyone with information asked to call sheriff’s office at (352) 754-6830 or contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477)
Deputies arrived on scene to find two adult victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One victim died on scene. The second victim was transported to a trauma center with non-life threatening injuries.

Authorities said there is an unknown suspect at large. Officials said it is unknown if the suspect is male or female or in a vehicle or on foot.

A LOOK AT THE SCENE: Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Marquette Street in Spring Hill just after 5 a.m. Wednesday to calls of a shooting. Deputies arrived on scene to find two adult victims suffering from gunshot wounds, one of which died. https://t.co/wzDQn5Bzl2 pic.twitter.com/xbKixLU9Ul

— Spectrum Bay News 9 (@BN9) October 11, 2023

Detectives continue working the case. Officials said residents should take necessary precautions.

Also, residents in the area are asked to review any video footage they may have for the timeframe of 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. Wednesday morning.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the sheriff’s office at (352) 754-6830 or contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477).

This is a developing story and more information will be released as it becomes available.
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Spectrum News Staff

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October 11, 2023
Citrus County’s rich Black history now on display
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CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — It’s been a hundred years since Crystal River’s only school for African American students opened its doors, but very little is known about the school, the teachers and the Black community living in that area when the school first opened in 1923.
What You Need To Know

The George Washington Carver school opened in Citrus County in 1923

The school closed in 1968 after desegregation ended

The George Washington Carver Community Center now sits on the property where the school once stood

The exhibit is on display at the George Washington Carver Community Center and it can also be viewed online
The water and beautiful scenery are what drew Wilfred Lucas to Citrus County, but the history he discovered on this property is what has kept him there.

The Chicago native says what he found at what’s now the George Washington Carver Community Center was something familiar.

“I just said to myself, this is a very familiar story. This is my story,” Lucas said. “Because I grew up in a very segregated environment and I remember a lot of what that was about.”

He wanted to make sure the people in Crystal River remembered too.

“I said why don’t we have a quality exhibit, a museum quality exhibit that memorializes everything that’s in here,” he said.

So he got to work using his network of neighbors to create a diorama of The George Washington Carver School, also known as “The School.”

“My neighbor is an ex-IBM engineer, Robert Swann, who has a 3-D printer,” Lucas said. “He printed this building out within a couple of months using an ariel photograph and taking physical measurements of buildings that were here in the 1920s.”

He also met with lifelong Crystal River residents to perfect a diorama.

“We talked to Willie Joyner, who went to the school,” he said. “And then he described to us some of the details that were in there. A potbelly stove. So, we tried to find a potbelly stove — a piano. Obviously, the chalkboards.”

The iconic teachers, the sense of belonging and the moments that lead up to this old photograph of children at the school may be a long-lost memory for some, but it’s ever present for Andrea McCray and her family.

“My family is a pioneer family of Crystal River,” she said. “That means we were here before Citrus County was created.”

The all-Black George Washington Carver School for elementary and middle school students closed after desegregation, before McCray was born. But her grandmother, who taught at the school, never let her forget its importance.

“Her mother washed, line dried and ironed laundry, a dollar a basket to send her to high school,” McCray said. “So because I grew up with her, she kept this before me about the importance of education.”

That old iron was one of the few reminders McCray had of her grandmother and the community that helped raise her. But with this new exhibit, those memories are now here as a constant reminder of the excellence that once was here.

“My heart was full because we have so much history that hasn’t been brought out,” she said. “We don’t have a documented history of Black people here in Citrus County. At one point we were 33% of the population here. We’re now under 3% but we’re big contributors of Citrus County and its founding.”

Displaying that history for all to see and soak in, just like they soak in the beauty of Citrus County — that was Lucas’ goal all along.

The exhibit is currently on display at the George Washington Carver Community Center. Organizers say they plan on finding it a permanent home and they encourage everyone to check it out.
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Saundra Weathers

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October 8, 2023
Creatures of the Night take over ZooTampa
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TAMPA, Fla. — Before the first pumpkin smash. Before the fun and the fear. Before the vampires and the vikings.

Alex Crow brings Creatures of the Night to life at ZooTampa. One haunted area at a time.
What You Need To Know

Creatures of the Night on select dates through Oct. 29

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

12 attractions

Eerie Scale: 1 to 3 pumpkins
Crow oversees the Halloween fun at ZooTampa — and Spectrum Bay News 9 caught up with them on their final run-through.

Families of employees are the test subjects.

“This is the first time our actors get to play with some guests, so we are making sure they are bringing the characters to life — and making sure every area feels alive,” said Crow.

Entertainer Amanda Kronhaus, the pumpkin-smashing baker Lucilla Lumpkins in the Scarecrow Junction, says introducing little revelers to theatre is a treat.

“Children may be getting to see a show for the first time,” said Kronhaus.

Crow guides his group of willing test subjects past the vampires at the zoo entrance and the clown at the carousel.

“Alright, our next stop is gonna be troll cave,” said Crow, as he ushered the group past a massive animatronic troll with smokey flatulence.

It was a hit.

“One of the little kids just told us 10 out of 10, so I will take this to my heart,” said Crow.

If you should survive the Troll Cave, you may also get to meet some Vikings.

After a few raucous beats, viking dancers rock out, do a kick line formation and then throw out a Tae Kwon Do- style sidekick.

Little costumed dancers vibe with the vikings as they break formation post-performance.

Crow is observing this all from the sidelines — giving a few notes and high-fiving a performer who then thrusts her hands in the air and lets out a “Woo!”

Crow says it’s great to see it coming together.

“You put it on paper, you plan it, plan it, plan it,” said Crow. “I’m just so relieved. This is amazing.”

The event Crow began spearheading in August is ready to open.
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Virginia Johnson

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October 6, 2023
Historic Inverness train station converted into restaurant
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INVERNESS, Fla. — An old train station in downtown Inverness is using its historic structure to create a brand-new business inside.
What You Need To Know

The Train Station in Inverness is using a historic train depot to create a new restaurant, bar and duckpin bowling alley

It was part of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, but Jenkins says the building had been vacant for three years before they renovated the structure

The original building was constructed in the 1800s
What was once a place for passengers to wait for a train in the 1800s is now a bar, restaurant and bowling alley.

Even on a slow day, there’s not a lot of downtime for Caroline Jenkins, the co-owner of a new restaurant called the Train Station.

Jenkins grew up in Wales but moved to Citrus County in 1990 after her parents bought a historic hotel.

“I’ve been here 33 years, so now I’m almost a native,” Jenkins said.

For years, she’s had a passion for hospitality. She’s also worked in physical therapy — but there’s always been this desire to do something special.

A few years ago, she and her friend, Vickie Humphrey, decided they were going to do something unexpected with a piece of Inverness history.

“It was just so unique, and it sat empty, and we just felt like somebody had to do something with the building,” Jenkins said.

They began leasing out this old train station that was built in the 1800s and converted the inside into a café, a bar and a duckpin bowling alley.

“We loved everything about it, and we just knew we wanted to do something in here,” Jenkins said.

It’s a special place for Jenkins’ family because her husband’s grandfather was a station master here, way before it became a place for games and food.

“He worked in this building for 40 years,” Jenkins said.

And now, she’s working here.

The business, aptly named the Train Station, opened its doors to the public Labor Day weekend of 2022 and just passed their one-year anniversary with resounding affection from the town.

“We really couldn’t have asked for a better first year,” Jenkins said.

Their only issues were supply chain challenges when they started renovating the train station.

It took them almost a year to get the main money maker — their pizza oven.

“This was the first thing we ordered, and we ordered it in January, and it came in November,” Humphrey said.

Now that it’s here, the folks around town visit often, whether for a pizza or a simple cup of coffee.

In just a year’s time, Jenkins and Humphrey have pulled into the Train Station and have used this piece of history to create something special on the inside.

The original train station was built in Inverness in 1892.

It was part of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, but Jenkins says the building had been vacant for three years before they renovated the structure.
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Nick Popham

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September 26, 2023
Pine Ridge becoming known for its growing equestrian community
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BEVERLY HILLS, Fla. — For many who call the Sunshine State home, it’s also known by another name.
What You Need To Know

Pine Ridge Equestrian Community has been around for years only now its starting to earn the nickname ‘Little Ocala’

The Citrus County community has attracted those passionate in equestrian and is beginning to see more people call the area home

With 28 miles of trails to ride, the community is offering plenty of space for both horse and rider to enjoy
The state didn’t obtain its other nickhame of “Horse Country” without a reason. But perhaps less known is the Citrus County community behind that reputation.

The community of Pine Ridge has always been an equestrian paradise. Only now, as more people begin to discover its secret, it’s earning another name— “Little Ocala.”

“If you look at her from behind, she has angel wings,” Gail Thomas said.

On her 6-acre property, Thomas takes one of her two horses, Annie, out for a stroll.

“It’s the best kept secret in Florida, I believe,” she said.

That secret Thomas is talking about is the Pine Ridge Estates Equestrian Community. An areas Thomas has been calling home for the last 15 years.

“It was the trails, the amenities, the equestrian center where you can board your horses for a couple of years while you’re building your own place,” said Thomas, who is also president of the Pine Ridge Equestrian Association.

Just a short distance away from Thomas’ property sits the Pine Ridge Equestrian Center. A vast open space for members and their horses.

“I think Pine Ridge is truly becoming like the new Ocala,” said Judy McCoy, a realtor with Century 21 J.W. Morton.

McCoy knows the area all too well. As a realtor, she understands the type of attraction Pine Ridge possesses.

“We have space, we have the Suncoast Parkway coming directly up from Tampa so it’s very easy to get to either Tampa International Airport or Orlando International Airport,” McCoy said. “You can have the advantage of being kind of a small town and yet the advantage of being close to big cities, if you need that.”

It’s for this reason that attracted Thomas. Not to mention the extensive trails that run just behind her home.

“We have 28 miles of trails and then, if you want to ride it backwards, you can double that. Add the excess trails, it’s about 60 miles of trails.”

Offering plenty of space for both horse and rider to enjoy.

“I just hope to see people when they move into Pine Ridge to enjoy the wonderful amenities we have,” Thomas said. “And to learn about their horses and just enjoy their life with their horses here, in a safe manner.”

An inviting prospect to residents and newcomers alike.
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Calvin Lewis

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September 22, 2023
Tampa avian artist meets seabird sanctaury amabassador ahead of talk
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INDIAN SHORES, Fla. — There is a screech owl named Rufus who lives in Indian Shores.
What You Need To Know

John Costin is a Tampa avian artist and wants people to approach his feathery subjects

‘Etched Feather: A History of the Printed Bird’ will be on display through mid-October
The small, but mighty bird of prey is currently an animal ambassador at the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary.

Rufus will be “co-hosting” an event at the Tampa Bay History Center, along with avian artist John Costin.

It’s part of the History Center’s “Sangria and Stories” series, taking place Thursday, Sept. 21.

Costin’s avian artwork work is currently featured at the Tampa Bay History Center — in “Etched Feather: A History of the Printed Bird,” on display through mid-October.

After taking thousands of pictures of birds in the wild, Costin says the injured birds are fortunate to get this level of care.

“It’s really positive and optimistic to see that,” said Costin, a Tampa artist who lives in Ybor City.

Avian artist John Costin and his wife Janet Costin. Costin called his wife “my inspiration” when discussing his artwork. Photo by Bobby Collins/ Staff

His interest in birds took off after he moved from Detroit in the early 1970s and replaced pigeons with wood storks, sandhill cranes and red-shouldered hawks.

Costin hopes his art shows his deep appreciation for birds and the people who help them.

Costin will also be speaking at the History Center during the Florida Birding and Nature Festival Oct. 12– 15, 2023.
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Virginia Johnson

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September 18, 2023
Northern counties are open for business weeks after Hurricane Idalia
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HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. — Weeks after Hurricane Idalia, coastal communities in the nature coast are just now returning to normal.

Waterfront areas of Hernando and Citrus counties dealt with what our weather experts estimate was more than three feet of storm surge.
What You Need To Know

Areas along the water in Hernando and Citrus counties dealt with more than 3-feet of storm surge from Hurricane Idalia

Weeks after cleanup and recovery, both counties are back open for business

One business couple is taking the damage from the storm in stride and coming back stronger than before
Businesses like Hunter Springs Kayak Tours have since reopened. The storm pushed nearly a foot of water into the kayak rental store. Cleaning up required plenty of time and patience.

But now, local leaders say it’s time to get the message out — that Citrus County is back open for business.

“You had businesses that were impacted that were also giving back to the community,” said Josh Wooten, President & CEO of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce. “Just people working together. The government did a great job and I think the citizens, at large, really, it’s a testament to them that we got back up and running quickly.”

Wooten added that with businesses back up and running, he expects a boost for the local economy.

And just a 10-mile drive south from Crystal River to Homosassa, another local business had to pick up the pieces after Idalia. A job these owners are taking one scoop at a time. Rebekah and James Barr never expected such a significant impact from Idalia.

“You see these things on tv but then to actually experience it a little bit, it’s like, ‘Wow- this is surreal,’” said Rebekah.

They’ve owned their ice cream shop for four years — the ‘Ice Cream Barr’ a blessing — until the storm brought uncertainty.

“My first reaction was to cry, but I just knew it was all for a purpose and that there was a reason behind it all,” said Rebekah. “I didn’t know how we were going to be okay, but I knew we were going to be okay.”

The shop you see now looked pretty different after Hurricane Idalia impacted Florida’s Gulf Coast in late August.

“One of the first things I noticed when we were able to get into the building was this right here,” said James. “We’d scrubbed quite a bit, but you can still see a clear water line. This is about 18 to 20 inches from the ground.”

After many hours of scrubbing and cleaning, their shop is now back open. Serving hungry customers one cone at a time.

But owning an ice cream shop wasn’t something they’d even thought of until moving to the area.

“I grew up in upstate New York where there’s ice cream shops on every corner and we come down here and we’re like, ‘Okay let’s go get some ice cream,’” says Rebekah. “And there’s no mom-and-pop ice cream shops. We were like, ‘We need to do that.’ We like to cook, so it’s kind of a hobby, but I never thought we’d get into ice cream.”

A hobby now turned into a profession. Made special by the experiences they’ve gone through.

“All of the old machines that were given to us by friends and other people who wanted to help us out, gave us old appliances throughout all of this,” said James. “I cleaned them all and now they’re working better, they’re even colder. So there’s always good. Every time you look at a situation, there’s always good to be found.”

It’s that ‘finding the good during the bad’ that keeps the couple going. Maybe that’s why now — more than ever — it’s an appropriate time to celebrate.

“We are going to have our big grand opening party on Oct. 1,” said Rebekah. “It’s going to be a luau Hawaiian theme, so we hope you can join us.”

With a promise of more frosted treats on the way, you can find your local ‘Ice Cream Barr’ at 10844 W Yulee Drive, Homosassa.
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Calvin Lewis

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September 18, 2023
Cedar Key business owners, residents trying to get back to normal
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TAMPA, Fla. — As Benjamin Iversen cleaned up the mud caked on the floor of his Cedar Key coffee shop, he said he’s trying to stay optimistic.

Even though he mounted his refrigerators on milk cartons before the storm, that wasn’t enough to protect them from the three feet of water that flooded inside 1842 Daily Grind.
What You Need To Know

Cedar Key residents are starting to return to the island to see the damage from Hurricane Idalia.

Community members are helping each other clean up their businesses and homes.

Starting Friday, FEMA crews will be going door-to-door to help enroll people in assistance programs.
“With each piece of equipment I keep testing, it turns out I’m going to be needing to replace it,” Iversen said. “But in some way, shape or form, this weekend we’ll be back open for coffee and for some breakfast and lunch.”

Iversen’s coffee shop is on 2^nd Street, about two blocks from the water.

There are many homes and businesses on the street, which saw a lot of flooding during the storm. Iversen stayed put in Cedar Key to ride out the storm. He didn’t want to risk not being able to get back on the island to fix his shop, but also to help his neighbors get back on their feet.

“It’s just unbelievable,” Iversen said. “You see storms on the news and hear about these big hurricanes and stuff happening but living through it and experiencing one is just, it’s very humbling and also overwhelming.”

Even though Iversen has to replace a few refrigerators, he’s confident his business – and the whole island – will make it through the storm.

As residents return home to the damage Hurricane Idalia left behind, Iversen and his staff are welcoming them with free coffee, water and pastries – because that’s the Cedar Key way, Iversen said.

“Friends, the community, family – you just have to lean on that and trust that everything will be OK,” he said.

On Friday, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews will begin going door-to-door in Cedar Key and Yankeetown to help register people for assistance programs.
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Brian Rea

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September 1, 2023
Idalia: When classes across Tampa Bay will resume

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We’ll be using this page to update our viewing area on school impacts due to Idalia.

School Closings by County:

Citrus County

NEW: The school system will reopen Friday.

In a statement Thursday, the district said: “After receiving the latest update from Emergency Management officials and having assessed the damages in our facilities sustained from Hurricane Idalia, I am pleased to share that schools will be reopen tomorrow Friday, September 1st. Should you have any issues or concerns, please contact the administration at your school. As always, we appreciate your time, understanding, and patience during these uncertain times.”

Due to the coastal impact in our county from Hurricane Idalia, schools are continuing to be used as shelters.

School will be cancelled, Thursday, Aug. 31.

After the next high tide, more info regarding a projected date of school reopening will be announced.

Hernando County

All Hernando County schools and district offices will reopen Thursday, Aug. 31.

Students impacted by coastal flooding will be provided an excused absence.

Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County Schools are reopening on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Manatee County

All Manatee District Schools will reopen Thursday, August 31.

Pasco County

All Pasco County schools will be open on Thursday, August 31.

This includes athletics, PLACE, Delta, Star, and all other extracurricular activities.

Pinellas County

Schools will be open for normal operations on Thursday, August 31.

Polk County

All Polk County schools and offices will reopen Friday, Sept. 1.

Major Universities:

University of Central Florida: UCF will resume standard operations on Thursday, Aug. 31.

University of Florida: UF to resume normal operations on Thursday, Aug. 31.

University of South Florida: USF says classes will resume Thursday, Aug. 31, except for classes at Mote Marine.

University of Tampa: Regular operations are scheduled to resume Thursday, Aug. 31 at noon.

St. Petersburg College: Campuses/sites open and all classes resuming — on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Florida State University: Classes and normal university operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

FAMU: Classes and Universtiy operations remain suspended through Friday, Sept. 1. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

Polk State College: PSC classes and operations will resume Thursday, Aug. 31.

Keiser University: Classes will resume at the following Keiser University campuses on Thursday, August 31, 2023. All campuses will be open for regular operations unless otherwise noted.

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Spectrum News Staff

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August 30, 2023
Where to find last-minute gas
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Many Floridians are preparing for Idalia, and soon many will be searching for gas as the storm gets closer.

With the GasBuddy Outage Tracker, drivers can search for gas stations nearby, as well as filter by the following criteria:
- Has Fuel & Power
- Has No Power
- Limited Fuel Options
- Has No Fuel & Power
Click/Tap on the image below to locate gas stations near you and check their status. For the best results, be sure to share you location. You can also track outages on your phone by downloading the GasBuddy app for Android or iOS.

Screenshot of the GasBuddy Outage Tracker (Courtesy: GasBuddy.com)
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Spectrum News Staff

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August 29, 2023