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Tag: Community news

  • Western N.C. homeowners await word on FEMA buyouts

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    ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The federal government has given western Carolina more than $1 billion in aid since Hurricane Helene hit.

    But a lot of people are still waiting to receive help for housing more than a year later.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency

    • Under the program, homeowners are able to sell their house to the government

    • Hundreds in western North Carolina have applied for the grant money, but many have not heard back 



    For about 10 years, MaryLynn Manns called Riverknoll home. 

    Now, the home where she planned to live the rest of her life holds only the scaffolding of memories.

    “It’s just really sad when I come here, because it used to be a cute little place,” Manns said.

    The 45-townhome community in Buncombe County sits along the Swannanoa River.

    Manns and her neighbor Betty Doll would walk to each other’s house in pajamas and drink wine.

    “This was a really nice neighborhood. And most of these houses on this bottom level are now gutted. And they, you know, no windows, nothing,” Manns said. “And so these people are no longer here.” 

    Doll’s house sits on the top the hill. The foundation is in danger of falling and can only be repaired if the riverbank is repaired. 

    Manns’ and Doll’s houses are among the 21 in the neighborhood that are unlivable.

    These residents were forced to move from their homes. Now many are paying for their mortgage on top of their expenses for their current home.

    “There was so much damage. I think people are really traumatized by it all. And most of the residents are older individuals. And financially, the challenge of that, especially with having to live somewhere else now, depleting retirement savings,” Doll said.

    The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program could help with these costs. The FEMA-funded program would allow the government to buy the homes at whatever the value was before Helene and would work to prevent future damage and losses. 

    It’s been 14 months since the applications were submitted, but the local government and residents haven’t heard anything from the government about the money. So right now, those applications sit in limbo.

    “We wonder where the money is, that’s what we’re wondering,” Manns said. “Where is the money for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program that we applied for?”

    They are among hundreds of storm survivors waiting to hear back about the funding.

    Spectrum News 1 reached out to FEMA to ask for a reason for the delay, but we have not gotten a response.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

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    Jordan Grantz

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  • Lakeland father honors 6-year-old son after sudden death at school

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — A Polk County father is honoring his son’s legacy after the 6-year-old suddenly died just days before Christmas.

    What You Need To Know

    • Jarvis Washington, father to his son, 6-year-old Mes’sia, is honoring his 6-year-old son, Mes’sia, by launching an autism awareness foundation after his sudden death
    • Mes’sia was nonverbal and on the autism spectrum

    • Washington said Mes’sia was his usual self when he dropped him off at school on Dec. 17, but later that day, the child became unresponsive in class and died unexpectedly

    • Mes’sia’s family is still waiting for the official cause of death from the medical examiner’s office


    Jarvis Washington stood outside his home, reflecting on some of his last fond memories of his son, Mes’sia.

    “He was a very playful, very lovable child,” Washington said.

    Washington said Mes’sia was his usual self when he dropped him off at school on Dec. 17. Later that day, the child became unresponsive in class and died unexpectedly. Washington said doctors believe pneumonia may have contributed to his son’s death.

    “And from the consistency of them trying to save his life, he went into a form of cardiac arrest,” Washington said.

    Mes’sia’s family is still waiting for the official cause of death from the medical examiner’s office, a process that could take weeks or longer.

    Since learning of Mes’sia’s death, community members have rallied to help raise money for funeral expenses. Washington said remaining funds will go toward a foundation he plans to launch in his son’s honor. Mes’sia was nonverbal and on the autism spectrum.

    “His legacy now is going to help other individuals who are very special, very gifted, and sometimes overlooked because of perceived barriers — physical or mental — that can ultimately provide solutions to the world,” Washington said.

    Washington said the organization will be called The World Is Mine Foundation, named after a message Mes’sia often carried with him.

    “When he passed away, he still had on one sock, and on it, it said, ‘The world is mine,’” Washington said. “I held onto it for a couple days and thought about my son’s legacy. He reminded me we’re a lot bigger than what we perceive.”

    Washington said it is a reminder that will live on forever.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • 120 years on, Epiphany celebration continues to shine on Tarpon Springs

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. – Spring Bayou is quiet.

    But the waters in one of Tarpon Springs’ most well-known neighborhoods will soon be alive with excitement for yet another celebration.

    Epiphany 2026 has arrived.


    The largest Epiphany celebration in the western hemisphere is once again set for Jan. 6 in northern Pinellas County. This year’s event will be the 120th edition of the renowned ceremony.

    Epiphany is celebrated worldwide, but the famous celebration in Tarpon Springs turns the small town known for its quaint sponge docks into a unique festival that sees 20,000 people descend on the area.

    Crowds annually turn out at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral and at Spring Bayou for the first week of January’s Orthodox Epiphany observance.

    The Tarpon Springs community has commemorated Christ’s baptism for more than a century with services at St. Nicholas Cathedral, and events highlighted by a ceremonial cross dive at Spring Bayou. (Spectrum News/Jorja Roman)

    And once again, the highlight of the celebration will come when about 60 young men will take their places in the usually chilly waters of the bayou in hopes of retrieving the cross from the water and the yearlong blessing that is said to come with it.

    The event-filled celebration features a Blessing of the Fleet on Monday, Jan. 5, at 1 p.m. at the Sponge Docks on the Anclote River. 

    WATCH: What is Epiphany?

    The next day begins with an 8 a.m. church service at St. Nicholas, followed by the procession of clergy and faithful to Spring Bayou around noon.

    The dove release is next, followed by the Archbishop throwing a cross into the bayou and the young men dive into the waters. The one diver who retrieves the cross is considered blessed for the entire year.

    Following the ceremony and cross throw, the Epiphany Glendi (festival) will be held at the Spanos-Pappas Community Center (348 N Pinellas Ave) with food, drink, live music, and dancing. 

    SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

    Tuesday, January 6, 2026 (Epiphany Day)

    • 8:00 AM: Orthros (Matins) and Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
    • 9:00 AM (approx.): Procession from the Cathedral to Spring Bayou.
    • 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Blessing of the Tarpon Springs waters, Dove Release, and the Dive for the Cross in Spring Bayou by young men.
    • 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (or later): Epiphany Glendi Festival at the Sponge Docks with food, music, and dancing.

    ORIGINS

    Epiphany, also called the Theophany (meaning “appearance of God”), celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan by St. John the Baptist.

    The most characteristic feature of the Orthodox Epiphany observance is the sanctification of the waters. The waters of the River Jordan were blessed by the presence of Jesus.

    The observance spread to the new world and eventually to Tarpon Springs, which boasts the largest percentage of Greek Americans of any city in the U.S.

    Tarpon Springs’ Epiphany began as a simple affair in 1903 and has grown in size ever since.

    The local ceremonies are identical to those that take place in and around Greece. 

    John Hittos receives a necklace from Greek Orthodox Church officials after retrieving the cross during the 2024 Epiphany. (Associated Press photo)

    John Hittos receives a necklace from Greek Orthodox Church officials after retrieving the cross during the 2024 Epiphany. (Associated Press photo)

    FAMILY AFFAIR

    Most young men growing up in Tarpon Springs dream of retrieving the cross when it comes their time to dive.

    And most, if not all, have a relative in the small, tight-knit community that grabbed the cross from the murky waters.

    Last year, Luc Boillot of Tarpon Springs emerged from the waters with the coveted cross.

    “I can’t explain it. This is unreal,” said Boillot.

    Luc’s mother, Kathy, said it was a special moment.

    “It’s very emotional for me because of my father and both of my brothers caught the cross. You know, my father was the priest here for 30 years at Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and I feel truly blessed,” said Kathy Boillot.

    2025 cross retriever Luc Boillot celebrates with the Archbishop after emerging from the Spring bayou waters with the cross. (Spectrum News image)

    2025 cross retriever Luc Boillot celebrates with the Archbishop after emerging from the Spring bayou waters with the cross. (Spectrum News image)

    ROAD CLOSURES:

    Locations: Area bounded by Spring Boulevard, Pine Street, Levis Avenue and Lemon Street.

    Major thoroughfares of Alternate US Highway 19 (from Pine Street to Lemon Street) and Tarpon Avenue (from Levis Avenue to Spring Boulevard) will be closed as well as many smaller roads within the area of the procession.

    Time Period: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from approximately 10:45 am until 3:00 pm

    Please observe posted detours, expect heavy traffic and yield to pedestrians. There will be NO overnight parking Thursday night or during the event within the procession area (Pinellas Ave. between Orange St. and Tarpon Ave.; Tarpon Ave. between Grosse Ave. and the Bayou; Orange St. between Pinellas Ave. and Ring Ave.). 

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    Rod Gipson

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  • New housing program to help youth who have aged out of the foster care system

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A new housing project is taking shape with a mission beyond bricks and mortar.

    A local nonprofit has officially broken ground on a development designed to support young adults aging out of the foster care system.

    The project aims to provide not just housing, but stability and a pathway to independence.

    What You Need To Know

    • Harbor 58 is a nonprofit aimed at helping youth who aged out of foster care 

    • The organization held a ground breaking ceremony last month for its new housing program, which includes six duplexes housing 12 people and a community center
    • The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road and organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027

    This is a new environment for Airanna Gibbons. But there’s one thing that’s always helped her during times of uncertainty: coloring.

    “It relaxes me and makes me less nervous,” she said.

    For Gibbons, it’s been a coping mechanism as she’s been in and out of foster care since she was four years old.

    “I ended up getting taken away from my biological parents a couple days before my birthday, and it was very stressful. There’s a lot of emotions, but I ended up moving from home to home, and none of them really enjoyed me or liked me. And so, I ended up going through about seven or eight homes before I ended up getting adopted,” she said.

    Around the age of 14, Gibbons said her life changed again.

    “I ended up having some problems, and I ended up going into a mental hospital. My adoptive parents decided that they didn’t want me. Then I ended up going into a group home,” she said.

    Now, the 19-year-old is in a new home.

    It’s an 18-month-long housing program with the nonprofit Harbor 58.

    “I guess it was finally home, I guess, if that makes sense. So, yeah,” she said.

    The mission of Harbor 58 is to help young people aging out of foster care by providing resources and support.

    In Gibbons’ case, that includes the opportunity to learn how to live more independently with the help of a career coach and other resources.

    The goal is for participants to eventually be able to live on their own.

    Alisha Pavacich is the program director.

    “Manatee County has a lot of kids that are in foster care and several that age out every single year. And there’s no real space for those kids to step into,” she said.

    The organization recently broke ground on its new housing complex, which will include six duplexes housing 12 people in total, along with a community center.

    “The statistics for youth aging out of foster care are not great. A lot of kids end up in jail, not graduating high school, or unfortunately, being trafficked. We just want to change that narrative and give them a more supportive and brighter future,” she said.

    Gibbons said she feels included and comfortable in this space. So much so, she said she’s looking forward to one day publishing a children’s book she wrote, inspired by her life experiences, and working towards becoming a child advocate.

    The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road.

    Organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027.

    Currently, the organization is housing three people and hope to expand that to more when the new facility opens in 2027.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • K9 Partners For Patriots say they are at risk of losing funding this year

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A local veteran’s organization is at risk of losing major federal funding at the end of this year. 

    K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program. Through its work, the organization says it provides mental health support to veterans.

    Inside this warehouse, Frank Cohen runs through a few drills with his canine partner Gracie.

    What You Need To Know

    • K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program

    • Those with the organization say this particular funding will expire December 31
    • It represents a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines, like Frank Cohen and his partner Gracie
    • Even though money has been approved for 2026, those with the organization say those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months


    “She’s significantly more than a pet because she goes with me everywhere, and some people will call them their partner but she’s a teammate for me,” said Cohen. “She has my back, and I have her back.”

    It’s possible due to K9 Partners For Patriots, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide. Dogs are screened to qualify and go through training with veterans. Cohen has been partnered with Gracie since 2023.

    “Every dog that’s considered as a prospect for the program goes through the AKC temperament testing that they do here at the facility,” says Cohen. “So she had to go through that first, and she passed it with flying colors.”

    But now the organization is at risk of losing critical federal funding. Communications director Gregg Laskoski said it’s money that comes from the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program.

    “We’ve been receiving that funding since 2015,” Laskoski said. “Unfortunately, the funding allocation for fiscal year 2025 has not been disbursed. Congress has stalled on that, and they’re telling us we have an allocation for fiscal year 2026, but that doesn’t get dispersed until maybe August or September.”

    Laskoski said that 28 other organizations are at risk of losing their funding as well. Which he said would be a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines.

    “It gives them confidence because when they start to see that it’s their work training the dog that becomes their canine partner, that builds their confidence,” said Laskoski. “They see, hey, this is really working, and it pushes them forward, and you can see it in their body language. You can see it in their facial expressions.”

    Offering veterans like Cohen a new lease on life.

    “This feeling like a deer in the headlights all the time is an exhausting process,” said Cohen. “I don’t feel like that anymore because Gracie watches out for me in ways that I don’t have to. You know, that’s her job, God bless her.”

    Laskoski says this particular funding for their organization will expire December 31. Even though money has been approved for 2026, he says those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • K9 Partners For Patriots say they are at risk of losing funding this year

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A local veterans organization is at risk of losing major federal funding at the end of this year. 

    K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program. Through it’s work, the organization says it provides mental health support to veterans.

    Inside this warehouse, Frank Cohen runs through a few drills with his canine partner Gracie.

    What You Need To Know

    • K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program

    • Those with the organization say this particular funding will expire December 31
    • It represents a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines, like Frank Cohen and his partner Gracie
    • Even though money has been approved for 2026, those with the organization say those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months


    “She’s significantly more than a pet because she goes with me everywhere and some people will call them their partner but she’s a teammate for me,” said Cohen. “She has my back and I have her back.”

    It’s through K9 Partners For Patriots, a non-profit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide. Dogs are screened to qualify and go through training with veterans. Cohen has been partnered with Gracie since 2023.

    “Every dog that’s considered as a prospect for the program goes through the AKC temperament testing that they do here at the facility,” says Cohen. “So she had to go through that first and she passed it with flying colors.”

    But now the organization is at risk of losing critical, federal funding. Communications director Gregg Laskoski said it’s money that comes from the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program.

    “We’ve been receiving that funding since 2015,” says Laskoski. “Unfortunately, the funding allocation for fiscal year 2025 has not been dispersed. Congress has stalled on that and they’re telling us we have an allocation for fiscal year 2026, but that doesn’t get dispersed until maybe August or September.”

    Laskoski says 28 other organizations are at risk of losing their funding as well. Which he says would be a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines.

    “It gives them confidence because when they start to see that it’s their work training the dog that becomes their canine partner, that builds their confidence,” said Laskoski. “They see- hey- this is really working and it pushes them forward and you can see it in their body language. You can see it in their facial expressions.”

    Offering veterans, like Cohen, a new lease on life.

    “This feeling like a deer in the headlights all the time is an exhausting process,” said Cohen. “I don’t feel like that anymore because Gracie watches out for me in ways that I don’t have to. You know, that’s her job- God bless her.”

    And, you can say, it’s changed Gracie’s life as well

    Laskoski says this particular funding for their organization will expire December 31. Even though money has been approved for 2026, he says those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Tourism boomed in Tampa in 2025, eyeing gains for 2026

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Bay is seeing tourism numbers like never before.

    After three decades, 2025 marked the strongest year yet for Visit Tampa Bay, ending the fiscal year on September 30 with more than $1.2 billion in taxable hotel revenue.

    And 2026 is already off to a strong start.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tampa surpassed $1.2 billion in taxable hotel revenue in 2025, the most it has ever seen

    • Visit Tampa Bay recently launched a new ad campaign called Go and You’ll Know to encourage new visitors to explore all Tampa has to offer 

    • Major conventions are booked solid throughout 2026

    • NHL Stadium Series happens at Raymond James Stadium on February 1


    Major sporting events are helping drive early momentum, including the ReliaQuest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium this week, which follows last week’s Gasparilla Bowl.

    Together, the events are bringing tens of thousands of fans into the area and helping set the tone for a busy tourism season.

    Visit Tampa Bay is also rolling out a new tourism campaign called “Go and You’ll Know.” The campaign includes online, print, and TV ads designed to spark curiosity and encourage travelers to discover experiences that are unique to Tampa Bay.

    Looking ahead, convention travel is expected to provide a steady base of visitors throughout 2026, with at least one major convention scheduled every month.

    According to Visit Tampa Bay CEO Santiago Corrada, many of those groups are now going beyond economic impact by participating in community service efforts through an initiative called Meeting the Moment.

    “Whether it’s working with Feeding Tampa Bay, Habitat for Humanity, or doing book drives, backpack drives, or planting mangroves, we recognize those groups because what they’re doing goes well beyond the dollars they’re spending here,” Corrada said.

    Sports tourism continues to play a major role as well. In February, Tampa Bay will host the NHL Stadium Series hockey game at Raymond James Stadium on February 1, bringing even more visitors to the region.

    With record-setting numbers and a packed calendar ahead, Tampa Bay tourism leaders say the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

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    Jason Lanning

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  • Benefit concert helping launch restoration efforts on Richey Suncoast Theatre

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A local landmark unique to New Port Richey is looking to get a little love in terms of restorative work.

    What You Need To Know

    • Touted as the “Heart of New Port Richey” and standing for nearly 100 years, the Richey Suncoast Theatre is in need of some restoration

    • A recent benefit concert titled “Letters With E” featuring Ed Roland of Collective Soul, is spearheading those efforts
    • The theatre has a long history of being a centerpiece of downtown, offering entertainment on the silver screen as well as community plays
    • Those at the theatre say renovations will begin with the roof in January, with plans for the theatre’s exterior afterwards


    The Richey Suncoast Theatre has stood for nearly 100 years, offering entertainment on the silver screen as well as community plays. But now, the theatre is in need of some restoration. A recent benefit concert is spearheading those efforts.

    At the corner of Grand Boulevard and Nebraska Avenue stands a landmark that has withstood the test of time.

    “This theatre is the heart of New Port Richey,” said Lia Gallegos, interim president of the board of directors for the Richey Suncoast Theatre.

    The near-century old monument in downtown New Port Richey is a place that’s dedicated to showcasing the arts. A place that has become like a second home for Gallegos.

    “The community absolutely loves the theatre and everything that she brings to the community,” she said. “It’s a place for kids and adults to learn new skills and become more creative.”

    But Gallegos said it’s in need of renovations, which was the inspiration for its first benefit concert, featuring Ed Roland of Collective Soul. The event raised over $42,000 from auctioned items.

    “Renovation is never a quick process, especially on a 100-year-old building,” Gallegos said. “But we’re looking forward to getting it started this year.”

    All sorts of relics from the theatre’s history are on display. History that board member Angela Sarabia knows well.

    “This is a series of programs from that first big season that they came out as the Richey Suncoast Theatre,” she said. “This is a movie poster from one of Thomas Meighan’s films. The theatre was originally built to showcase Thomas Meighan’s films, and he was the Tom Cruise of his day.”

    In order to understand where the theatre is going, she said, you need to know its past.

    “Some of the renovations that we’re really interested in doing are bolstering our windows and doors and the upper windows to hurricane proof us, because we know we live in an area that is going to continue to get these big storms,” said Sarabia. “So we don’t want that to be a problem for performers for the next hundred years.”

    Allowing the next generation of stars to take the stage, bringing in audiences both near and far.

    “For the ‘Letters with E’ concert, we had people flying in from all over the country who had never been to New Port Richey before,” said Gallegos. “So the theatre is that — it’s the draw to bring people from outside of the area to enjoy our downtown and get to experience it and, hopefully, keep them coming back.”

    And to keep breathing new life into this theatre.

    Those at the theatre say renovations will begin with the roof in January. They then plan to make renovations to the theatre’s exterior afterwards.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Retailers tap into AI to cut down on return fraud

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    ST PETERSBURG, Fla. — Return fraud is becoming a bigger problem for online retailers, and now companies are being forced to look at how they can crack down on the expensive issue.

    According to the National Retail Federation, retailers are expected to hit nearly $850 billion in returns after this holiday season wraps up. According to David Sobie, the head of UPS-owned logistics company Happy Returns, nearly 1 in 10 items returned is fraudulent in some way.


    Sobie says 83% of companies he and his team polled this year, consider retail fraud a very serious issue. Retail fraud can range from returning an empty box in hopes of a refund, to more complex schemes like returning a similar looking item of lesser value and hoping the employee processing the return doesn’t notice.

    Now, retailers are starting to use AI as a way to crack down on this problem. Sobie is doing the same with a handful of his retail partners using his new Return Vision solution that utilizes AI.

    Return Vision works by scoring a return based on different characteristics, and if it’s deemed a higher risk, an employee will open the return and process the item using AI. The technology catches things the employee could miss.

    He used the example of returning a less-expensive cotton sweater in place of an expensive one.

    “AI catches subtle differences,” he said. “It could be a different neckline, different stitching, or where the buttons are placed. Some things that someone doing their job and doing their job well may not catch.”

    Getting caught processing a fake return could get a customer banned from using that online retailer or even result in legal action.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Pasco County passes new ordinance allowing residents to keep hens on property

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Residents in Pasco County may see more neighbors on the “feathery side” soon. 

    The county recently passed a hen ordinance, allowing homeowners to keep up to four hens on their property. It’s a new rule that officially makes keeping hens legal in all residential areas throughout the county.

    Some homeowners are already taking advantage of the new ruling.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homeowners in Pasco County can now legally keep up to four hens on their property thanks to a new ordinance

    • This changes a past ruling, where only certain designated areas in the county could house hens
    • Hens must be kept in a chicken coop, and no roosters are allowed
    • In January, Pasco County will hold classes for those homeowners who would like to learn more about keeping hens on their properties


    “It’s crazy how they have their own personalities. Like, you just know,” said 10-year-old McKenna Scott.

    In the backyard of her New Port Richey home, she takes care of her hens. Sunny, Willow and Charlotte.

    “That’s been super fun for me because, of course, I love animals,” says McKenna. “I would come home and I’m like, ‘Hi babies!’ and they’re just super adorable.”

    McKenna decided she wanted to keep hens after a family friend had one. But it still took a little convincing before mom and dad got on board.

    “I would say she was the biggest driving force, and it’s been amazing because now it’s kind of her thing,” said Nicole Scott, McKenna’s mother. “Those are her babies, and it’s interesting because we’ll even take them downtown with us for a walk and everybody loves it.”

    Under Pasco County’s new ordinance, any homeowner may keep up to four hens on their property, changing the types of homes can house hens. The hens must be kept in a chicken coop, and no roosters are allowed.

    “You don’t need a permit, you can have up to four hens,” says Nicole. “Pretty much it’s have a fence and you have to have a place for them.”

    “Essentially, persons who previously were not allowed to have chickens in residential properties are now allowed to do so,” said Amandla Hill with Pasco County’s Planning, Development and Economic Growth Department.

    Hill says the new ordinance frees up any pre-existing restrictions for homeowners for owning hens.

    “The idea is that persons would have a better idea as to where their food comes from and, therefore, they have that locally sourced eggs instead of having to get it from a grocery store,” Hill said. “So I do believe that residents were really happy when we were able to get this ordinance adopted.”

    It’s also teaching both Nicole Scott and her daughter a thing or two about hens.

    “I really just think it’s helped her with responsibility and, honestly, it’s just kind of given her something to look forward to every day.”

    So while McKenna isn’t sure raising hens or farming represents a future career for her, she still has time to figure that out.

    “I don’t know what I want to be,” she says. “I’m thinking of becoming a lawyer, I really don’t know what to be. I have lots of years left because I’m 10, so I’ve got a while to go.”

    But no matter what profession McKenna chooses in the future, one thing is certain. She loves her hens.

    Starting in January, Pasco County will hold classes for those homeowners who would like to learn more about keeping hens on their properties. You can learn more online right here.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pasco County passes new ordinance allowing residents to keep hens on property

    [ad_1]

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Residents in Pasco County may see more neighbors on the “feathery side” soon. 

    The county recently passed a hen ordinance, allowing homeowners to keep up to four hens on their property. It’s a new rule that officially makes keeping hens legal in all residential areas throughout the county.

    Some homeowners are already taking advantage of the new ruling.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homeowners in Pasco County can now legally keep up to four hens on their property thanks to a new ordinance

    • This changes a past ruling, where only certain designated areas in the county could house hens
    • Hens must be kept in a chicken coop, and no roosters are allowed
    • In January, Pasco County will hold classes for those homeowners who would like to learn more about keeping hens on their properties


    “It’s crazy how they have their own personalities. Like, you just know,” said 10-year-old McKenna Scott.

    In the backyard of her New Port Richey home, she takes care of her hens. Sunny, Willow and Charlotte.

    “That’s been super fun for me because, of course, I love animals,” says McKenna. “I would come home and I’m like, ‘Hi babies!’ and they’re just super adorable.”

    McKenna decided she wanted to keep hens after a family friend had one. But it still took a little convincing before mom and dad got on board.

    “I would say she was the biggest driving force, and it’s been amazing because now it’s kind of her thing,” said Nicole Scott, McKenna’s mother. “Those are her babies, and it’s interesting because we’ll even take them downtown with us for a walk and everybody loves it.”

    Under Pasco County’s new ordinance, any homeowner may keep up to four hens on their property, changing the types of homes can house hens. The hens must be kept in a chicken coop, and no roosters are allowed.

    “You don’t need a permit, you can have up to four hens,” says Nicole. “Pretty much it’s have a fence and you have to have a place for them.”

    “Essentially, persons who previously were not allowed to have chickens in residential properties are now allowed to do so,” said Amandla Hill with Pasco County’s Planning, Development and Economic Growth Department.

    Hill says the new ordinance frees up any pre-existing restrictions for homeowners for owning hens.

    “The idea is that persons would have a better idea as to where their food comes from and, therefore, they have that locally sourced eggs instead of having to get it from a grocery store,” Hill said. “So I do believe that residents were really happy when we were able to get this ordinance adopted.”

    It’s also teaching both Nicole Scott and her daughter a thing or two about hens.

    “I really just think it’s helped her with responsibility and, honestly, it’s just kind of given her something to look forward to every day.”

    So while McKenna isn’t sure raising hens or farming represents a future career for her, she still has time to figure that out.

    “I don’t know what I want to be,” she says. “I’m thinking of becoming a lawyer, I really don’t know what to be. I have lots of years left because I’m 10, so I’ve got a while to go.”

    But no matter what profession McKenna chooses in the future, one thing is certain. She loves her hens.

    Starting in January, Pasco County will hold classes for those homeowners who would like to learn more about keeping hens on their properties. You can learn more online right here.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • St. Petersburg repairs waterfront parks from hurricane damage

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The City of St. Petersburg opened all of its waterfront parks just in time for the holidays, as some areas had been closed for repairs after flooding damage from both hurricanes Idalia and Helene.

    “All of these parks were inundated with saltwater,” said Barbara Stalbird, Parks and Recreation assistant director. “What happened was a lot of the trees had died and all of the sod had died.”

    The flooding killed about 23 trees and caused drainage problems too, according to Stalbird.

    What You Need To Know

    • Four waterfront parks in St. Petersburg were damaged by hurricanes Idalia and Helene 

    • The cost for the repairs is $553,000, with FEMA picking up most of the tab

    • Three parks have been completed: Elva Rouse, Vinoy and Flora Wylie 

    • Repairs at Albert Whitted Park are expected to begin next month


    “It also created compaction with the soil, and so soil could no longer drain,” she said. “So we had a wetland situation where water would just sit and sit and had nowhere to drain.”

    Stalbird said the four waterfront parks most affected by the flooding were Elva Rouse, Vinoy, Flora Wylie and Albert Whitted. The cost to regrade the parks and replace the sod is $553,000. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) picked up most of the cost for the Idalia damage at $415,000. The city and state split the remaining $138,000.

    “We know that everyone loves their park system and we appreciate that support,” said Stalbird. “And everyone’s patience during this project. It’s been an important project.”

    Stalbird said they had to use St. Augustine grass because FEMA only pays to replace the sod that was in place before the flooding. Elva Rouse was the first park to be repaired and was completed in April. The sod removal from Vinoy Park began in June and Flora Wylie  in October, according to Stalbird.

    “Grading was one of the biggest values of this project, because what we were able to do once the old sod was removed by our staff, we were able to do significant grading so that the water would no longer sit,” she said. “Then the new sod is laid, and it’s able to thrive because of those better soil conditions.”

    The fencing around Flora Wylie park was taken down last week, an early Christmas gift to the community from Parks and Rec.

    “Just in time for people to enjoy it for the holiday,” said Stalbird. “We hope everyone’s able to come out.”

    Resident Jenna Sutton, 28, lives in the neighborhood across the street from Flora Wylie Park and said she noticed people weren’t using the grass after the flood damage.

    “There was a lot of dips in the ground. A lot of people play soccer out here and they couldn’t do that anymore,” she said. “It really affected the way that people just like they do yoga out here in their daily activities. We typically were just doing walks.”

    Sutton was one of the first park visitors to enjoy the fresh sod when the fencing was removed from Flora Wylie.

    “It was closed for a while, and I was getting kind of nervous,” she said. “The grass is open, it’s beautiful and I’m so excited.”

    In May, the Trust for Public Land released its 2025 ParkScore which ranked St. Petersburg as having the No. 1 waterfront park system in Florida and No. 14 among the largest 100 cities in the nation. Stalbid said it’s important to maintain the crown jewel of the city, which is listed as a top priority in the charter.

    “This is very unique. In most cities, you have all the development along the water, which really blocks public use,” she said. “So our founders were so, so responsible in setting this aside. So that the public would always have it for enjoyment.”

    Stalbird said the city has a tree replacement plan and has been conducting a seawall study with plans for a higher wall to further protect the parks from flooding. The last park to be repaired from hurricane damage is Albert Whitted, which is expected to begin next month.

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    Josh Rojas

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  • Plantain Puerto Rican Lasagna at the Tiny Turtle

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    COCOA BEACH, Fla. — A Caribbean fusion restaurant establishes itself as a Cocoa Beach landmark. Chef Moises Correa and his wife own the mom ‘n’ pop joint. Chef Correa says he spent his life fine-tuning his culinary craft to create a community gathering spot like The Tiny Turtle in Cocoa Beach.

    “I grew up in a family where my grandmother cooked everyday – three meals a day,” he says, typically incorporating traditional Puerto Rican things like sofrito, Adobo, or Sazon, just like at his restaurant.

    On this Christmas Eve, Chef is sharing his take on a dish that is popular in Puerto Rican holiday celebrations: Pastelón.

    Let’s cook!

    PUERTO RICAN PLANTAIN LASAGNA (recipe provided by The Tiny Turtle)

    Serves: 9–12

    Prep Time: 45 min | Cook Time: 60 min | Total: ~1 hr 45 min

    ■ Beef Picadillo

    Ingredients:

    1 Tbsp Oil

    4 oz Sofrito

    0.5 oz Chopped Green Pitted Olives

    0.5 oz Chopped Fresh Jalapeño

    1 Tbsp Adobo

    1 Tsp Sazón (Culantro y Achiote)

    1 Tbsp Caribbean Jerk Seasoning

    1 Tbsp Cumin

    1 Tbsp Basil Leaves

    1 Tsp Ground Oregano

    1 Tsp Smoked Paprika

    1 Tsp Light Chili Powder

    1 Tsp Salt

    1 oz Minced Garlic

    5 oz Medalla Light (or any light beer)

    2.5 lbs Ground Beef

    Directions:

    1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add sofrito, olives, and jalapeño. Stir and sauté for 2–3

    minutes.

    2. Add all dry ingredients and minced garlic. Continue to sauté on medium heat, stirring well.

    3. Pour in the beer to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits and combining all flavors.

    4. Add the ground beef. Cook on medium heat, breaking it apart until browned.

    5. Skim off excess fat as desired (leave a little for flavor).

    6. (If serving as a standalone dish, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes before serving.)

    ■ Creamy Ragù

    Ingredients:

    Prepared Beef Picadillo

    4 oz Cream Cheese

    16 oz Marinara or your favorite Pasta Sauce

    2 Bay Leaves

    Directions:

    1. Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese to the Beef Picadillo and mix until melted and creamy.

    2. Stir in the marinara sauce until well combined.

    3. Add bay leaves, cover, and simmer on low for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    4. Remove bay leaves and set aside.

    ■ Maduros (Sweet Plantain) Sheets

    Ingredients:

    2.5 lbs Fried Maduros (Sweet Plantains)

    Parchment Paper

    Directions:

    1. Divide maduros into 3 equal portions.

    2. Place one portion between two sheets of parchment paper and flatten with a press or rolling pin to form a

    thin sheet (same size as your baking pan).

    3. Repeat for all 3 portions to create 3 sheets. Set aside.

    ■ Pastelón Assembly

    Ingredients:

    Creamy Ragù (divided into 2 equal portions)

    3 Maduro Sheets

    16 oz Ricotta (divided into 2 portions)

    16 oz Monterey Jack Shredded Cheese (8 oz, 4 oz, 4 oz)

    3 oz Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 oz per layer)

    1 Tbsp Soft Butter

    Smoked Paprika (for color)

    12.75” x 10.37” aluminum baking pan

    Directions:

    1. Preheat oven to 300°F.

    2. Butter the bottom and sides of the pan.

    3. Layer in this order:

    – 1st Layer: Maduro sheet → 8 oz Ricotta → ½ of the Creamy Ragù → 1 oz Parmesan → 4 oz Monterey

    Jack

    – 2nd Layer: Maduro sheet → remaining Ricotta → remaining Creamy Ragù → 1 oz Parmesan → 4 oz

    Monterey Jack

    – Top Layer: Final Maduro sheet → 8 oz Monterey Jack → 1 oz Parmesan → sprinkle Smoked Paprika

    4. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.

    5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

    ■ Serving Tip

    Pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet plantains and creamy,

    savory beef ragù!

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    Allison Walker

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  • Nostalgic Christmas village at 3 Daughters is 40+ years in the making

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    ST. PETE. Fla. — Inside of 3 Daughters Brewing by downtown St. Pete sits a tiny city filled with Christmas memories.

    It started tiny.

    Now, the village of small holiday figurines sits upon 18 tables and spans down two sides of the brewery.

    It’s the work of owner Mike Harting’s dad, Bruce.

    Bruce says the Christmas village used to be inside his home. It started in the early 1980s when his mom brought the very first piece home from her job at the Hallmark store. The first piece is one that Bruce calls ’Scrooge’s House’ and is from the original Department 56 North Pole collection.  It used to have a revolving function where you could see the small figurines dancing in the window. While it doesn’t turn anymore, it has its spot front and center.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Christmas village is on display until January 10

    •  Located at 3 Daughters Brewing at 222 22nd St S in St Pete

    •  This year’s village has roughy 400 houses, 500 people, and 80 animated pieces

    • Village is now 18 tables long 


    When Mike and his wife opened 3 Daughters Brewing in 2013, the family decided the brewery would be the perfect spot for the Christmas village.

    Quickly, Bruce says, it caught on. They started expanding, and as the village grew more and more people visited the brewery hoping to donate their family’s pieces.

    Bruce says every season they have people who walk through the door with a piece from their late parent or grandparents collection that they want to donate. Bruce marks those special pieces with an ‘X’ and makes sure they get put out every year.

    “When we rebuild, we look at the bottom of the piece and if they’re special marked they go back in,” he explained.


    The Christmas village has turned into a patchwork of memories from families throughout the community.

    “It just caught on because all of us are kids at heart,” he said.

    One of Bruce’s favorite spots is a series of gondolas in the corner. It reminds him of his time in the U.S. Army, when he and his wife were living in Europe. While they were there, they would ride the gondolas together. There’s one section that’s lower, so small children can see. There’s trains, arenas, and full-blown winter scenes. A newer section, is inspired by the Ringling Brother’s circus.

    This year, the village has roughly 400 houses, 500 people, and 80 animated pieces. There’s also a large, red button that powers some of the animated pieces that guests can push. It’s all strung together to one power switch, so the staff can easily turn it off when closing up at the end of the night.

    Bruce says it takes about 4 weeks to put the village up each year. It will be on display until January 10.

    Photojournalist Anthony Sande contributed to this report. 

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    Angie Angers

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  • Will local cemetery change its city from Gulfport to St. Petersburg?

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The historic African American Lincoln Cemetery in Gulfport is in the middle of a back-and-forth with two cities, a serious financial need and a big question about who should provide the help they are asking for.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lincoln Cemetery in the city of Gulfport is a final resting place for thousands of people

    • Pastor Clerence Williams said that the location of the historic African American burial ground is just one of the many issues there

    • Gulfport leaders discussed the possibility of the de-annexation of Lincoln Cemetery from Gulfport and the annexation of the property to the city of St. Pete


    It’s a topic city leaders are working to get to the bottom of, but the owners of the cemetery said he wants help while these discussions are taking place.

    Lincoln Cemetery in the city of Gulfport is a final resting place for thousands of people. Pastor Clarence Williams leads Cross and Anvil Human Services, which owns Lincoln Cemetery. He said that the location of the historic African American burial ground is just one of the many issues there.

    “I think where the city is located is nothing but smoke and mirrors,” he said. “What about doing what’s right? These cemeteries exist because of the egregious nature of Jim Crow, which would not allow Black people to be buried in the same cemetery with whites.”

    Williams said this is a conversation that has gone on for years with Gulfport and St. Pete. Now, new questions are being raised about changing the city the cemetery is in.

    “I think this whole annexation has merit. It’s probably a good long-term solution,” he said. “But you know what, sometimes you need to reconcile the wrongs of the past before you get to a future plan.”

    Williams spoke out about this in a meeting with St. Pete city leaders earlier this month.

    Days later at a Gulfport City Council meeting, leaders discussed the possibility of the de-annexation of Lincoln Cemetery from Gulfport and the annexation of the property to the city of St. Pete.

    “I’m still somewhat of the belief of — until he tells me — the owner of the property, ‘I’d like to be de-annexed,’ it seems it would be silly to have that conversation without that directly to me,” said Gulfport Mayor Karen Love.

    Next year will mark a hundred years since Lincoln Cemetery was established here. And while property owners and the city boundaries have changed during that time, Williams said the need has never changed. The question he is left with is this: Will requesting annexation to be changed from city of Gulfport to the City of St. Pete result in more help at the cemetery?

    “My answer is C. Both. Both of them have a vested interest. Where the cemetery is located is a farce,” he said.

    St. Pete officials said they can’t help with the funding Williams is asking for if the cemetery is located inside another city.

    “What about the human element, you can get past the laws and the courts,” Williams said. “There are people out there. There’s a name. This is not some oak tree. There’s a name, they contributed and made St. Pete what it is.”

    Williams said he has a meeting with Gulfport officials next week, but he has made it clear he wants help from everyone to preserve the final resting place of the people who he says helped build these same cities.

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    Saundra Weathers

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  • Catching up with Floridians whose stories inspired us in 2025

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    FLORIDA — As we get closer to the end of the year, we look back at a year that brought happy times for some, but major struggles for even more. These stories are of those who found the strength to overcome adversity often make the most inspiring impression.

    Spectrum News catches up with some of the incredible individuals who taught us all a little bit about the best of humanity in 2025.

     

     

     

    Finding Your Passion

    — Apopka, FL —

    In the middle of February, Delia Miller shared her journey of finding her passions and purpose. Combining her love of art, concern for the environment, and newfound passion for aviation, she has turned all of this into an inspiring project.

    Her journey began with an opportunity to paint a mural in her hometown. Her path took a turn in an airport bathroom where she met a young, Black, female airline captain. The encounter spurred Miller to pursue aviation as a career path.

    Watch Delia’s story to witness how she turns dreams into reality and encourages others to discover their greater purpose.

     

    Act of Kindness

    — Orlando, FL —

    Watch her story to see how her acts of kindness reached kids in Geneva and Belize.

    In September, young Gracelynn “Gracie” Decelles shared her story with us. Two years ago, the now 8-year-old girl began selling eggs from her family’s chickens at a small stand outside her home. The proceeds of those sales went toward the purchase of hundreds of backpacks for children in need.

    Watch her story to see how her acts of kindness reached kids in Geneva and Belize.

     

     

     

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    Dan Trotter

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  • Pasco County families receiving help through new Better Future program

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Pasco County homeowners, whose homes were damaged during hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton, are getting some much-needed help from the county.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County homeowners affected by hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton can apply for the Better Future housing program

    • The program offers help to repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged in last year’s hurricanes
    • Checks are being presented to those families who’ve already applied, made possible through federal funding from the Community Development Block Grant


    It’s through the Better Future housing program, which offers help to repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged by last year’s hurricanes. It’s helping one particular family just before the holidays.

    “This is such a great program, we want to present you guys with a check for reimbursement,” said Jack Mariano, chair of Pasco Board of County Commissioners.

    Outside the West Pasco Government Center, the first Better Future check is presented to the Onishenko family.

    “Life after was a little difficult with some of the damage that we had,” said check recipient Steven Entwistle.

    The Onishenko’s home was damaged during last year’s hurricanes, requiring them to dip into their own pockets to make repairs, until now.

    “Life is expensive, and then, when you have those repairs come in, that’s a monthly payment that just keeps coming in,” said Entwistle. “So now, with this check, it’s 100% covering all that debt, and I don’t need those monthly payments anymore, and I’m much happier.”

    The program is made possible through federal funding from the Community Development Block Grant.

    “This is going to be a very important program for the people that couldn’t get the work done because they didn’t have the funding,” said Mariano. “Now, other families that couldn’t get in, can get in and get the help to do it direct with us.”

    More checks are on the way to other families affected as well.

    “We want to show optimism that all the hard work, all the struggles that have gone through, the help that is here now and the team behind us — my fellow commissioners, Yeager and Oakley here, and Starkey and Weightman as well — we are 100% behind this program,” Mariano said. “Confident this is going to help our people get their lives back together, help them recover and live a much better quality of life coming up.”

    And to have that money just before the holidays means a little more.

    “It helps fund the family again instead of so much going out,” said Entwistle. “So it being right around Christmas was a big miracle, if you ask me.”

    A holiday miracle for this family.

    All homeowners who sustained damage from the three storms in Pasco County can apply for the Better Future program. However, priority goes to low-income households, seniors and people with disabilities, and residents who have been displaced.

    You can learn more information on the Pasco County website.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Tracey Stephens helps kids learn to read with her big dog Teddy

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — A Polk County woman is helping some little students learn how to read.

    Tracey Stephens is doing it with the help of a great big dog.

    Each Monday, Stephens takes her big black Newfoundland named Teddy to Sikes Elementary School where she goes to the library to volunteer as a reading coach. Stephens has set up a huge dog bed in the corner of the library for Teddy.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tracey Stephens takes her Newfoundland dog Teddy to Sikes Elementary School each Monday

    • Stephens says Teddy provides a calm, fun environment while she works with students on their reading skills

    • The students usually pet Teddy while they read

    • Principal Lindsey Leskis says Stephens has a caring approach with the students


    Each Monday, Stephens takes her big black Newfoundland named Teddy to Sikes Elementary School, where she goes to the library to volunteer as a reading coach. Stephens has set up a huge dog bed in the corner of the library for Teddy.

    “Not to do a product placement,” said Stephens. “But you need a big barker.” As soon as Stephens spread out a blanket on the bed, Teddy got right on it to lie down. “He was like oh, this is where the bed is. So exciting,” Stephens said.

    Stephens works with the students one at a time. The reason for having Teddy there is to make it a fun, relaxing environment. Teddy always stays very calm, and the students sit on the dog bed with Teddy and Stephens while they work on their reading skills.

    Sometimes the students pet Teddy while they read. “I think he just brings down the temperature a little bit because he’s not overly excited. Ha, ha, ha,” said Stephens.

    Helping the children with their reading skills is a rewarding experience for Stephens. “I think it’s great fun. I love to hear them use their voice and get stronger and more confident in their reading,” she said.

    Principal Lindsey Leskis appreciates Stephens’ gentle approach with the students. “She spends the time to talk to them and learn their interests and really get them excited about reading and they just love Teddy,” she said.

    Stephens sometimes provides the students with small gifts for their hard work. On a recent Monday, she had a gift-wrapped book for student Kaydence James that said it was from Teddy.

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Left hooks and life lessons: East Tampa Boxing Gym offers both

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    TAMPA, Fla. — As you walk into the East Tampa Boxing Gym, you walk under a sign that reads, “It Is Better To Bleed In The Gym, Than In The Street.” 

    What You Need To Know

    • Odeon Esson launched East Tampa Boxing Gym almost 10 years ago 

    • He’s there every Monday through Saturday offering boxing lessons to kids as young as six

    • Esson’s bigger goal is to teach the kids life lessons and help them “be somebody” 

    • Esson, a former boxer himself, is joined by a handful of coaches helping in his effort


    It’s one of the many mantras of owner Odeon Esson, for his boxing facility off East Hillsborough Avenue in Tampa.

    “You’re in East Tampa. It’s rough over here, you know,” Esson said. “Out there in the street, you might not come back from it. But in here, you got a chance.”

    Esson gives children as young as six years old the chance to come boxing at his gym Monday through Saturday nights.

    It’s a three-hour boxing practice where the lessons are more about lifestyle than about left hooks and right jabs.

    “Help these kids — a lot of these kids in this neighborhood — become somebody,” said Esson, talking about his goal for the gym. “Let them know, ‘You have a dream, you can do it. Whatever you set your mind to, you can do it.’”

    Hanging on the walls of the gym are signs that reinforce those life lessons:

    • “If You Can Accept Losing, You Can’t Win”
    • “Life Has Got To Be Lived”
    • “Winners Are Simply Willing To Do What Losers Are Not”

    And those lessons on the wall are clearly making their way to the intended audience.

    On a Tuesday night, the gym is packed. A mixture of elementary, middle and high school students jump rope, do push-ups, spar with a coach, pummel a punching bag, practice punching combinations and even get into the ring to face off against Esson himself.

    “Things that you learn in here, teach you things in the real world,” said Vince Clavizzao, a friend from Esson’s boxing days who he recruited to coach here.

    When the young boxers were asked what they learned by coming to East Tampa Boxing Gym, responses varied from heartfelt to real skills.

    Some young people there that night cited boxing strategy and technique. Fifth grader Cody Amos said he’s learned “you have to punch to win.” Sixth grader Jayden Gilbert said Esson had taught him “how to jab” and get his stance right.

    But Gilbert also said his nightly trips to the gym taught him “not to give up.” Fifth grader Pedro Ruiz said the gym helped him learn to “stay focused.” Third grader Alantis Howard, the only female boxer we met at the gym, said the practices had instilled in her the idea that “you have to work hard to get rewarded.”

    Esson launched this place nearly a decade ago, and he has no plans to stop. For Esson, teaching life lessons — and boxing — will continue.

    “They could have been doing anything else. They could have been caught up in the street. But they’re here. They’re in a safe place. They’re here,” Esson said.

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    Jeff Butera

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  • Tampa Bay paintball team giving players purpose beyond the field

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — One Tampa Bay paintball team is doing more than just competing — it’s helping change lives.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Tampa Bay Rejects are a world-champion paintball team that practices in Lakeland

    • Players say the team’s focus on discipline and camaraderie fuels both personal growth and competitive success

    • Founders say the team provides a positive alternative for players who might otherwise face risky or violent situations


    To some, paintball is just a game. But at Legacy Sports Park in Lakeland, it’s how champions are made.

    Hunter Nasrallah first stepped onto the field with members of the Tampa Bay Rejects five years ago. What started as a simple escape for him and his three friends ended up saving his life.

    “It just got to a point where it felt like … it felt like I was better off not being here. Like, if I wasn’t here, it wouldn’t matter. It got really serious at one point, and paintball is what got me out of that mindset. It gave me that purpose in life,” Nasrallah said.

    He says it’s not just the game itself, but the camaraderie it brings.

    “They’re the ones that when I wake up in the morning, I wake up to text messages from them saying, ‘Yo, we locked in.’ Like, ‘Have you gone to the gym yet? Have you ran your mile yet?’ You know, we hold each other accountable, and it just gave me that purpose where these guys need me and I need them,” he said.

    Motivation like that, Nasrallah says, leads to the team’s success. That mentality has also helped cultivate talent like three-time world champion Andreina Blanco.

    “It feels amazing to have that support, and it goes around for all the guys too, so it’s great. It’s great to have that feeling, that family-type of vibe,” Blanco said.

    Brandon Johnson, co-founder of the Tampa Bay Rejects, says the goal is to provide a safe place for everyone.

    “It’s a lot deeper than just shooting each other with paintball guns,” Johnson said.

    Sometimes, Johnson and Nasrallah say, it means being an outlet for someone who might otherwise pick up a real gun.

    “All the stuff you learn through paintball or even in other sports equates to real life,” Nasrallah said. “You’re going to have hardship in life. It’s how you respond. If you get pushed over, are you going to get back up, or are you going to stay down? And every single one of those guys over there, they stand up. They stand back up.”

    Those who would like to be part of the Tampa Bay Rejects can sign up to try out for the team on Legacy Sports Park’s website. 

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    Alexis Jones

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