ReportWire

Tag: Community news

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

    • CHECK YOUR FLIGHTS: Tampa International Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Angie Angers

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • A+ Teacher now teaches at elementary school she attended 

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

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

    What You Need To Know

    • Melissa Spencer teaches fifth grade made at Myakka City Elementary 

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

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

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

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

    Spencer is teaching in the school she attended growing up.

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

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

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

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    Jorja Roman

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Julia Hazel

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

    • Rimes often appears at events with Superheroes for Hire characters

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Pasco County launching new hurricane relief assistance program

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

    What You Need To Know

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Jason Lanning

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  • Federal Shutdown Raises Concerns Over Childcare Funding

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Saima Khan

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Melissa Eichman

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Booming agritourism business helps small Florida farms

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

    What You Need To Know

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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

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

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    He calls the project “American Bios.”

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

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

    But sometimes, there are gaps.

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

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

    So today, the work continues.

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

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

    They have put the pieces together like a puzzle.

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

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

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

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

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    Dalia Dangerfield

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  • Commissioner deny request for taller rebuilt Thunderbird Beach Resort

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

    The landmark hotel has been closed since Hurricane Helene.

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Arrival of manatee season generates excitement among residents and visitors

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Elsewhere in the park are other prime viewing areas.

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

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

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

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

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

    An experience unlike any other.

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

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Durham City Council approves $44 million bond for major redevelopment in Hayti

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    DURHAM, N.C. — City leaders, housing officials and longtime residents say the Fayette Place project site marks a major step toward rebuilding a neighborhood that has awaited revitalization for decades.

    What You Need To Know

    • The 20 acres of land has sat empty since 2009 after old buildings were torn down

    • Durham City Council approved a $44 million bond that will support the components for the mixed-use development

    • More than 250 affordable homes are planned to be built 

    • Construction for phase one can begin as early as next year


    For nearly 16 years, 20 acres in the heart of Hayti have remained empty, a silent reminder of the once-thriving Black neighborhood.

    But now, the Durham Housing Authority, a partner in the project, says the redevelopment will help reconnect the community with its roots.

    “There are efforts underway to reclaim the life of what once was there,” said Anthony Snell, interim CEO of DHA. “I’m not saying that we can reclaim all of it with this initiative, but what we are doing, certainly, I think is in the right direction.”

    The redevelopment plan includes over 250 affordable housing units, which would serve families earning 30% to 80% of Durham’s area median income. It’s a decision that project leaders say is critical at a time when housing costs are so high.

    Just blocks away, longtime Durham resident and business owner Angel Greene says she knows firsthand how challenging it has become to find affordable housing in the city. 

    Greene now owns a flower shop, Angel World of Flowers, that has served the community for nearly three decades. She took over the business earlier this year and says she wouldn’t be able to live in Durham today if she hadn’t purchased her home years ago.

    “If I hadn’t purchased my home years and years ago, I don’t know that I would be able to even live in Durham,” Greene said.

    Despite the challenges the community has faced over the years, Greene says she is optimistic.

    “I’m hoping in a few years, with the revitalization and all the money that’s been poured into this community, I’m really looking forward to the business booming,” she said.

    Snell says that is the goal, to rebuild Hayti in a way that benefits the people who have long called it home.

    “Give us an opportunity. I’m not saying that we have the panacea here,” he said. “We are not, going to be the one project that’s going to tilt the community back to its original state, but I think we are a critical piece of it because of our commitment.”

    DHA estimates the total cost of the development at $86 million, and officials say phase one of construction could begin as early as next year.

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

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    Ryan Hayes-Owens

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  • Pinellas County votes to continues partnership with UF/IFAS

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A pathway toward a more sustainable Pinellas County has a clear vision after county commissioners voted to continue their long-time partnership with the county’s UF/IFAS Extension office. There was a lot of community support to preserve the relationship.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County commissioners voted to preserve their relationship with the UF/IFAS Extension office at their meeting on Tuesday
    • UF/IFAS provides programs to the community, helping to promote a more sustainable community
    • Several people were in favor of continuing the program and spoke at the commissioners’ meeting


    If you ever meet Jan Allyn, you’ll soon find out she has a green thumb.  

    She’s been a lover of plants since she was a little girl. It’s something she said her parents instilled in her. Now, she has a garden of her own.

    “Originally, it was mostly just grasses with some wildflowers, and then I’ve added more shrubs because I am trying to provide more for habitat,” she says.

    Allyn is the treasurer of the Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society. She said they partner with the UF/IFAS Extension to promote the education the center provides to the community.

    She said the extension office provides information on how to maintain a native garden.

    She believes the resources that the office provides are important. That’s why she spoke at the county commissioner meeting and voiced her support for continuing the partnership between the county and the extension office.

    “We earnestly believe that the county is getting a lot more money back than what they’re spending,” Allyn said.

    The UF/IFAS Extension offers programs such as 4-H youth development, green infrastructure workshops and more.

    Jeffrey Gellermann is the director of the extension office. He said preserving the partnership was important as more people engage with its outreach programs.  

    Gellermann said the master gardener volunteer program has grown to 140 county residents.

    “It’s a very intense program that provides a lot of information that creates volunteers who are amazing people that can go out to the community and really provide a lot of information to the citizens,” he said.

    Suzanne Hassell is a master gardener volunteer trainee. She said the program piqued her interest because it helps people create a more sustainable environment.

    “This is the type of program that really brings the community together and that the county benefits, but also all the citizens,” she said.

    Allyn said it’s a move forward to continue learning, and she’s excited to keep sharing her knowledge with others about native plants. 

    UF/IFAS offers programs virtually or in-person.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Polk commissioners vote to add teacher pay tax referendum to ballot

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — County commissioners have approved a tax referendum for the 2026 ballot.

    The referendum will let voters decide on giving teachers and school staff a raise by paying an extra $1 in property tax for every $1,000 their property is worth.

    The funds would generate an estimated $76-$82 million annually to boost teacher and staff pay and fund programs like school safety, arts, career/technical education and early learning.

    A significant salary gap exists between Polk and neighboring counties, contributing to recruitment and retention issues. The additional funds would cost the average homeowner about $260 more per year.

    If the referendum passes, the tax would go into effect July 1, 2027, and last until June 2031.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Funeral to be held Monday for WakeMed officer killed in line of duty

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    Funeral services for WakeMed Officer Roger Smith will be held Monday, Nov. 17, officials announced on Friday.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Officer Roger Smith was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, Nov. 8

    •  Smith was shot during a struggle, officials said, at WakeMed Garner Healthplex

    •  The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said

    • A memorial service will take place Monday, Nov. 17, at noon in Raleigh, N.C., followed by interment in Clayton, N.C.


    The service will start at noon at Providence Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

    Smith’s casket will be taken by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol’s Caisson Unit, starting at 10:45 a.m., down Glenwood Avenue from Mitchell Funeral Home to Providence Church.

    Following the service, Smith will be buried at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Clayton, N.C., officials said.

    A visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 16, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park, according to Smith’s obituary.

    Smith, 59, served as an officer with WakeMed Campus Police for 14 years.

    He was shot and killed on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 8, while on duty. Officials say the shooting happened during a struggle at the WakeMed Garner HealthPlex.

    The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said.

    Authorities have not released many details as to what led up to the shooting. The Garner Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are investigating.

    “He will be remembered for his compassion, his dedication to others, his kind smile, his friendship and his heroism,” WakeMed Health and Hospitals said in a statement earlier this week. “Officer Smith lost his life while protecting the lives of others – and we will forever remember and honor his memory.”

    A spokeswoman for WakeMed Health and Hospitals said there will be a memorial in Smith’s honor soon.

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

     

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    Justin Pryor

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  • Paul Mazzapica brings joy to assisted living center residents through karaoke

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A Pinellas County man has made it his mission to lead a group of church volunteers to be a blessing to their community. Paul Mazzapica’s joyful spirit really shines as he leads his team.

    Mazzapica said he was meeting with some fellow members of Countryside Christian Church seven years ago when they came up with the idea for a volunteer team called Operation Influence. That grew to include giving blessing baskets to local businesses, bags filled with necessities to homeless people, handing out hundreds of wood crosses and recently something called Shine Your Light.

    What You Need To Know

    • Paul Mazzapica leads the Shine Your Light team from Countryside Christian Chuch.  

    •  The team sings karaoke songs with residents of the Collier’s Assisted Living facility. 

    •  Mazzapica and other church members started Operation Influence seven years ago. 

    • Operation Influence does a number of good works in the community. 


    Shine Your Light team members go to assisted living centers to sing karaoke with residents. On a recent evening at Collier’s Assisted Living, Mazzapica was setting up his karaoke gear inside a large meeting area. There was a computer for streaming music and some large speakers.

    “We wanted to put our faith into action. So, we said what better way to do that than to share love. And there’s no better place to do that than this place, Colliers,” said Mazzapica. A few minutes later Mazzapica was playing some music and gathered residents were clapping to a song.

    Team member Ken Vasquez was getting the elderly residents into the spirit of the evening. “We are here to love on you and let you know you are not alone. God has us. God has you,” he said.

    The idea behind the karaoke night is the bring joy from the outside world to the residents who might feel forgotten. Team member Bob Elliot kept the energy going with leading much of the singing.  It’s a fun filled experience for everyone.

    Team member Ken Vasquez was getting the elderly residents into the spirit of the evening. (Spectrum News/Rick Elmhorst)

    “I’ve seen them dancing. I’ve seen them singing along,” said Mazzapica. “One thing I see is a lot of smiles.”

    Resident Eileen Mcaulay said the karaoke sessions bring residents out of their rooms at night, and everybody has a good time.

    “The whole idea of operation influence is to get out and be the hands and feet. That’s what we want to be,” said Mazzapica. “Not just sitting there in church wanting to do it. We do it.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Where to get a free Thanksgiving turkey in the Tampa Bay area

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    TAMPA — The combination of continued storm recovery, rising grocery prices, the government shutdown and the short-term disruptions in funds for SNAP has many Tampa Bay area families looking for some extra help to put a Thanksgiving dinner on the table this year. 

    The following turkey giveaways are planned in the Tampa Bay area leading up to the holiday, with as many details as could be found about eligibility to receive them.

    In many cases, advanced registration may be required, or you may need to plan to arrive early to get in line because of high demand.

    B.J.’s Wholesale Clubs — Members who spent $150 or more in a single transaction on Nov. 1-10 can get a free turkey coupon. Bring the coupon in their app or on their BJs.com account between Nov. 15 and Nov. 26 to the wholesale club.

    Hillsborough County

    Pinellas County

    Pasco County

    Polk County

    Manatee County

    Sarasota County

    Hernando County

    Citrus County

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Local Honor Flight Trip Helps Veterans Reconnect

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio —Honor Flight Cleveland has launched a new initiative to help veterans build social connections through regional memorial visits.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Honor Flight Cleveland pilot program offers bus trips to Columbus for veterans unable to travel to Washington, D.C.

    • Veterans said the trip helped them reconnect, heal and feel recognized for their service

    • Organizers plan to expand the program with four additional trips next year

    The pilot program brought veterans by bus from Cleveland to Columbus for visits to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Ohio Statehouse, offering an option for those unable to travel to Washington, D.C.

    Retired Sgt. Robert Piatak of American Legion Post 572 said the trip offered an important space for shared experience. “We had some bad days and like to forget it, but you also like to talk about it.” Piatak said.“It’s a brotherhood and a sisterhood. So even though someone served in the Army I served, we can joke around with each other.”

    Piatak emphasized that recognition, rather than praise, remains significant for many veterans. “It’s not that we want to be thanked all the time, but just recognized.”

    Honor Flight Cleveland Vice President Bill Synk said the pilot trip was developed to reach veterans who experience isolation or have limited ability to travel longer distances. He said the outings are intended to be therapeutic, giving participants opportunities to share experiences that can lead to new friendships.

    Synk said the positive response to the program calls for more opportunities. Honor Flight Cleveland plans to offer four additional regional bus trips in 2026, continuing to bring veterans to Columbus for museum and Statehouse visits.

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    Saima Khan

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