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Tag: good news

  • Metropolitan Ministries provides Thanksgiving meals to thousands of families

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Metropolitan Ministries experienced a 300% increase in families seeking assistance with their Thanksgiving meal this year. 

    They say thanks to the generosity of the community, they were able to meet everyone’s needs, and on Thursday, they served thousands more a hot, Thanksgiving Day meal.

    What You Need To Know

    • Metropolitan Ministries experienced a 300% increase in families seeking assistance with their Thanksgiving meal this year

    • They provided over 14,000 meals to families across Tampa Bay

    • Metropolitan Ministries is still taking Christmas applications from families needing assistance, but say they’re filling up fast


    For the last 36 years, Joyce Keller has spent her Thanksgiving volunteering with Metropolitan Ministries. 

    “I just said, for my heart, this is what I want to do,” she said.

    On Thanksgiving Day, volunteers served people a hot meal with turkey and all the sides at the Portico Café in downtown Tampa. The doors were open to anyone: people facing homelessness, hunger, or who just needed a meal and someone to share it with. 

    “Very nice of them, very nice of them, very Christ-like,” said Rocky Carson, who came to enjoy Thanksgiving lunch. 

    Carson said he didn’t know where he would’ve spent Thanksgiving had it not been for Metropolitan Ministries, and Keller says he’s not alone. 

    In her nearly three decades of volunteering, this year, “More people.  You know, more issues, snap problems, a lot of kids.”

    Metropolitan Ministries provided more than 14,000 meals to families across Tampa Bay. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Fallon Silcox)

    Metropolitan Ministries served more than 200 people in downtown Tampa, and thousands more at locations across Tampa Bay.

    “It was really shocking with the government shutdown, delays in snap benefits, as well as just the general challenges people are having with the economy, we had a huge increase in need.  The first week of November we had a 300% increase, quadruple the number of people coming in for help,” said Christine Long, Executive vice president and Chief Programs officer for Metropolitan Ministries.

    She doesn’t expect it to slow down for Christmas, and now, Keller is looking ahead and said they’ll need some extra help.

    “Be thankful for what you have, not everybody is. Come volunteer at the ministry, we have opportunities seven days a week,” said Keller.

    Right now, Metropolitan Ministries is still accepting applications from families who may need some extra help this Christmas, but they expect to fill up fast. 

    If you’re able to help, they’re collecting toys and food throughout the holiday season.

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • Neighborhood Nip Foundation and Think Watts Foundation hosts turkey giveaway

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    LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The Neighborhood Nip Foundation hosts its first-ever Turkey Giveaway at the future site of the foundation’s headquarters on Crenshaw and Slauson, passing out 5,000+ turkeys in partnership with the Think Watts Foundation.

    The giveaway was located at the new reconstructed Nipsey Hussle Square, the original location of the Marathon store on Crenshaw and Slauson.

    The foundation was founded after the late Los Angeles rapper Nipsey Hussle passed away in 2019. His brother Samiel Asghedom, also known as Blacc Sam, is making sure the marathon continues for his brother’s legacy.

    “We’re actually trying to plan for next year,” said Asghedom. “Being able to get out here and activate with thousands of turkeys is a blessing.”

    Founder of Think Watts, Stix, is touched by how one conversation brought this event into fruition.

    “We know had a conversation about doing something for the community and this is the first of that conversation,” he said. “That is giving out turkeys with all of the sides for everyone that need it.”

    The ABC7 street team was also onsite distributing 500 ABC7 grocery tote bags to help everyone bring home their Thanksgiving meal.

    For more information or if you would like to donate to the Neighborhood Nip Foundation or Think Watts foundation, visit neighborhoodnipfoundation.com and thinkwattsfoundation.org

    Copyright © 2025 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.

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    KABC

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  • 96-year-old among many taking part in Clearwater’s annual Turkey Trot

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    LARGO, Fla. — Clearwater’s annual Turkey Trot kicks off Thanksgiving morning with people of all ages taking part.

    What You Need To Know

    • 96-year-old Ethel Lehmann is taking part in Clearwater’s annual Turkey Trot

    • Staying active keeps Ethel running events like these

    • Ethel is still a multi-sport athlete that plays softball and bowling  


    Among all the participants running the 5k tomorrow, at least one will be in their mid-90s.

    That person is Ethel Lehmann.

    The trot has become an annual tradition for Ethel and her family.

    At 96 years old, she has always been an athlete.

    Staying active is why Ethel says she can still take part in these kinds of events.

    “I believe the exercise, doing it all that I do, definitely keeps me going at my age,” she said.

    Twice a week, she visits John S. Taylor Park in Largo for a jog to stay in shape.

    Ethel said she may not run as fast as she used to, but she doesn’t want to stop moving.

    “It’s a good two or three miles,” Ethel said, describing her jog.

    With her grandsons, son, and others taking part tomorrow as well, her goals are simple.

    “This year, I hope I do well,” she said.

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    Matt Lackritz

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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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  • Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation helps families fill their shopping carts

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    TAMPA, Fla. — For a lot of families, being offered a shopping trip with Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is music to their ears. But the shopping trip they’re taking isn’t what one would typically think of when it comes to filling up shopping bags. But for Mickesha Leggett, it’s right on time.

    “Being that we just went through a government shutdown, it’s a big relief off of some of us parents that’s going through a lot,” she said.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation assisted 250 families at the Silver Oaks Apartment complex

    • Families could choose groceries ahead of Thanksgiving, alleviating financial stress

    • The foundation’s efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to the community since last year’s hurricanes

    With the help of the foundation, Legget was able to pick out the items she wanted ahead of time so she could get items her family would eat. She already had her menu planned out.

    “Macaroni, yellow rice, chicken, string beans, cornbread and a chocolate cake,” she said.

    Leggett is one of about 250 families from the Silver Oaks Apartment complex that the Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is helping this holiday season. It’s part of a commitment organizers here made to those living in the low-income housing complex a year ago.  

    “We’ve been working with Silver Oaks since last year in October after the hurricanes,” said Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation Managing Director, Madison Gergely. “When we went to the community, the members and individuals really touched our CEO and founder, Taneka Bowles. A lot of the residents came to her about how much it meant.” 

    With this food market, the Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation is using an approach they know well — shopping in person and filling up grocery bags with what they need.

    “It doesn’t feel like charity. It feels like I’m able to support my family and I’m able to go shopping and get things for my family and for my kids without it being handed to them,” said Gergely.

    It’s a shopping trip Leggett says she couldn’t be more thankful for.

    “They have been amazing. They are great. I mean from the day we started this program until now. I can call on them for any and everything,” she said.

    The S.O.U.L. Food Market shopping experience accepted community donations to help fill the shelves for these families the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

    The Tampa Bay Fashion Experience was founded by Taneka Bowles, wife of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach, Todd Bowles.

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    Saundra Weathers

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  • 13K turkeys headed to Tampa Bay families in massive distribution event

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The Salvation Army in Clearwater is preparing to give out 13,000 turkeys on Monday in what organizers say has been a year jam packed with requests.

    Major Ted Morris with the Salvation Army said the massive distribution event is split into two parts: families receiving individual pickups, and community organizations that pickup in bulk and then distribute the turkeys to families in the surrounding area.

    They plan on giving 3,150 turkeys to individual families and 9,850 to community organizations to hit that total of 13,000 turkeys.

    What You Need To Know

    • Salvation Army to give out 13,000 turkeys Monday

    • 3,150 turkeys are to individual families and 9,850 to community organizations to distribute 

    • 150 volunteers are helping during 10-hour distribution event 

    • You must have a pre-registration ticket to attend pickup event 


    “We’ve had more requests this year than we’ve had in the past,” Morris said. “So we’ve had to limit the number we’ve had to give out with all of the requests that have come in.”

    The event is in its 30th year and sponsored by an anonymous donor.

    Roughly 150 volunteers are staffing Monday’s massive turkey distribution event and split into three shifts. Volunteer coordinator Irene Frye said the demand for food assistance really started to pick in up July. It grew even more when the government shutdown hit.

    Frye said she’s just thankful to be here helping others.

    “It’s just serving others. Helping people help people. Being there for one another… being there for our neighbor and just helping out especially in this time of need,” she said.

    As of Monday morning, all turkeys have been accounted for. You must have a slip as proof of pre-registration to pick up a Thanksgiving meal.

    The distribution event runs through 7 p.m.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Florida farm brings unique Gypsy Vanner horses and their story to life

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    OCALA, Fla. — Deep in the heart of Florida’s horse country, one farm is offering more than just beautiful pastures and photogenic horses — it’s giving guests a cultural and historical experience unlike any other.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gypsy Gold Horse Farm in Ocala is the first U.S. home of the rare Gypsy Vanner horse breed.
    • Visitors can take guided tours that provide education, history, and hands-on animal interaction.
    • The farm’s founder imported the first Gypsy Vanner after encountering the breed in Europe in 1995.


    Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is the first in the United States to introduce the rare and striking Gypsy Vanner horse breed to American soil.

    Known for their feathered hooves, flowing manes, and gentle temperament, these horses were originally bred by British and Irish travelers — often referred to as gypsies to pull their ornate caravans.

    “This amazing breed that Dennis has been preserving for over 30 years now. These are amazing, beautiful creatures, and a lot of people that come on these tours aren’t even familiar with the Gypsy Vanner breed,” said Eileen Mahoney, who works with the horses daily at the farm.

    Founded by Dennis Thompson and his wife, the farm is home to more than 30 Gypsy Vanner horses, each with a unique story and heritage.

    Thompson gives weekly tours where he not only introduces visitors to the horses but also shares the journey that brought them here.

    “My late wife and I, in 1995, saw one horse and learned it belonged to a gypsy,” Thompson told a tour group.

    “Spent that day in a gypsy camp and basically became obsessed.”

    The farm has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence four times and remains one of the top-rated attractions in Central Florida. (Spectrum News)

    That encounter sparked a decades-long mission to preserve the breed and honor the culture behind it.

    For Thompson, it’s not just about the horses — it’s about correcting long-held misconceptions about the Romani people.

    “They don’t read and write — that is by choice because they don’t want to lose their culture,” he explained. “So, they have been treated with prejudice for a thousand years.”

    During the tour, visitors meet horses like “Little Big Man,” whom Thompson describes as “a grandson of Kushti Bok,” one of the original horses he imported.

    Guests can also interact with mules and exotic birds, like colorful macaws, all while walking the picturesque grounds.

    Visitors from all over the country have made the trip — some with a deep love for horses, others simply curious.

    “Yes, I’ve grown up with horses. I used to be a jumper — and then I got old,” joked Bonnie Mickley, a visitor from Georgia.

    “It’s so wonderful that people like Dennis are saving this animal,” added fellow visitor Chris Connolly.

    Thompson’s passion is simple.

    “When people come to Gypsy Gold, I hope they get a better understanding of the culture and a better understanding of the horses that they envisioned.” said Thompson

    The farm has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence four times and remains one of the top-rated attractions in Central Florida.

    For more, visit the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm.

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    Randy Rauch

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  • Local Toys for Tots youth ambassador inspiring more service

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — As we look ahead to Thanksgiving and Black Friday this 2025, the holiday giving season really ramps up, and one Bay area teen is showing the way for others to do more community service while getting inspired by his dad’s own service. 

    Paxton Dulski, a senior at Clearwater’s Calvary Christian High School, has made it his passion project to organize Toys for Tots collection sites.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Paxton Dulski, a senior at Calvary Christian High School in Clearwater, is a Toys for Tots National Ambassador

    •  He says he is inspired by his father’s service to his country as a Marine veteran and his community as a law enforcement officer

    •  Dulski has been promoting toy donations at the different sites he has set up in the Bay area


    Paxton loves to spend a lot of time on the baseball diamond at Calvary Christian as one of the team leaders.

    As with any teenager, his life is centered around activities like these.

    But his passion is in volunteering.

    “Like the opportunity to help others,” Paxton said. “So, I think I can use the Toys for Tots platform to like show the blessing that I have to others and to bless them.”

    A run through of his days takes him from school to various locations where he has placed the Toys for Tots collection boxes, at least 10 of them.

    He is in fact a National Ambassador for Toys for Tots, a nonprofit created at the behest of the Marine Corps in 1991.

    As it states on their website, the basic mission of the Marine Toys for Tots Program is to collect new unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to economically disadvantaged children at Christmas.

    And Paxton has been helping for years, starting first as a volunteer for the program.

    He has a big reason and inspiration which drives his service to the community.

    One of his deliveries is at Largo Police Department and City Hall.

    “He is motivated, he is empathetic, he’s a giver,” said his father, Lt. Ryan Dulski. “This is a passion that he had.”

    Those words of praise come from — you could say one of Paxton’s biggest inspirations — his father.

    “That’s probably the best part of it, you literally have a child helping children and he’s learning from it at the same time,” said Lt. Dulski.

    It is this year’s Toys for Tots theme — children helping children.

    Paxton has been all over Pinellas County logging hundreds of hours to set up the toy collection boxes, from bingo nights at the neighborhood clubhouse to box set-ups at mom’s work.

    All the while, dad said Paxton is maintaining a nearly 4.5 GPA, and he is also a leader for the baseball team.

    “Those are time-intensive things, both studies and being a student athlete but to tag on volunteering and hundreds of hours of volunteering,” said. Lt. Dulski.

    Paxton would say it is the service of his father, who also happens to be a Marine veteran, that he is trying to emulate.

    He wants others to find their own inspiration.

    “I just hope that they can make an impact too,” said Paxton. “Because like I said, I started out volunteering and that’s one of the biggest blessings that you can help others.”

    As they say, it is much better to give than to get.

    A motto we can all live by this holiday season.

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    Roy De Jesus

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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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  • 50-cent thrift store book nets special find for veteran’s family

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A simple purchase at a thrift store turned into a very special find for one veteran’s family.

    Theresa Sutton was putting books away at a thrift shop in Lakeland when a book caught her eye. It was an aviators log book, dated 1945, during World War II.

    “It’s just so unique,” Sutton said. “So interesting.”

    Sutton paid 50 cents to buy the book. Then, she spent five years trying to find out who that book belonged to.

    She was excited when she was able to finally pinpoint someone who could help at the American Legion in Lake Wales.

    “I looked so long,” Sutton said as she wiped away tears. “Sorry. I looked so long for the right person to hand it to. It made me feel better.”

    The book was dated 1945, during World War II. (Spectrum News/Dalia Dangerfield)

    With the help of Kathryn Gates-Skipper with the American Legion of Lake Wales, they found out more about the veteran. His name was Sgt. Henry Hajenian. He was a Marine stationed in Cherry Point, N.C.

    Sgt. Hajenian served two years. The flight book belonged to him.

    Recently, Skipper and Sutton delivered the book to his daughter, Katia Moore. She lives in Tampa.

    Moore said she didn’t know a lot about her dad, who died when she was just 8 years old.

    “There’s not a lot I have of his,” Moore said. “It’s very sparse.”

    Having the book gives her something to treasure.

    “I love it,” Moore said. “It’s amazing. It’s wonderful.”

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    Dalia Dangerfield

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  • Pinellas Park provides free community meal with annual Giveback event

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    PINELLAS PARK, Fla. — Thanksgiving is nearly here, and in celebration of the upcoming holiday, Pinellas Park is giving back through its 3rd annual Thanksgiving Giveback.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas Park hosted its third annual Thanksgiving Giveback

    • The event included a free community meal and to-go bags with supplies

    • Organizers say this year’s efforts take on a bit more meaning with the recent government shutdown


    Dozens met at the Broderick Community Center for a free community meal, but without volunteers like Newton Tren, the event could not be the success it is.

    “I support Pinellas Park (as a) city, so whatever they have … I come up to do it,” she said.

    Community center Project Manager Richard Rock said the idea for the giveback began three years ago.

    Growing each year, he’s thrilled the community can sit down and have a meal as a city.

    “Families can sit down, have a meal on us, and then at the end of it, we do a pay-it-forward event where we have food items that they can either take for themselves or pay it forward to somebody else,” he said.

    Rock said this year’s efforts take on a bit more meaning with the recent government shutdown.

    Despite the shutdown’s end ending, he said it’s put a lot more stress on families than in past years.

    That’s why he’s happy they provide a to-go bag with supplies people may need.

    With 150 bags available for everyone to take home for themselves or for someone in need, Rock said they’re supporting the community on all fronts.

    He added that some were expected to be left over and encourages anyone in need of extra supplies to stop by the community center.

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Goats on the go: ‘Free goat walks’ provide a neighborhood with a quirky mental health escape

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    Goats on the go: ‘Free goat walks’ help neighbors unite and de-stress

    Updated: 8:44 PM EST Nov 13, 2025

    Editorial Standards ⓘ

    When residents in an Idaho neighborhood need some time to unwind, they know the drill. The neighbors in Boise’s Bench neighborhood head over to the Ching family’s home, grab a leash, and take a goat for a walk. Kerry Ching told KIVI that her family uses goats to “help eat the weeds, clear the area, and be something kind of fun and different to have in the neighborhood and also for ourselves.””People come by to the goat area and then just enjoy watching the goats. So we thought about making this as a community engagement,” Tony Ching said, later adding, “So many people will just drive by, they’ll roll down the window and be like baaa.” Noticing how much their neighbors love the animals, the family created Chingóat, which is a free neighborhood activity that allows neighbors to walk, feed, or just spend time with their goats. The family says their free goat walks have become a popular activity, and they’re particularly beloved by Boise State University students who live nearby and cherish a chance to get a mental health break.”You can just like forget everything and just really be present in that moment and just look at these cute little goats and relax,” Kerry told KIVI.And the goats are also providing joy to people who don’t live in town.That’s because Chingóat offers a livestream of the goats. The “goatcam” can be viewed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.The goats have gained popularity far beyond Boise.”Coworkers who are in other states, even other countries … they log on as a mental health break,” Kerry said.To see more, watch the video from KIVI in the player above.

    (Video above: KIVI via CNN Newsource) —

    When residents in an Idaho neighborhood need some time to unwind, they know the drill.

    The neighbors in Boise’s Bench neighborhood head over to the Ching family’s home, grab a leash, and take a goat for a walk.

    Kerry Ching told KIVI that her family uses goats to “help eat the weeds, clear the area, and be something kind of fun and different to have in the neighborhood and also for ourselves.”

    “People come by to the goat area and then just enjoy watching the goats. So we thought about making this as a community engagement,” Tony Ching said, later adding, “So many people will just drive by, they’ll roll down the window and be like baaa.”

    Noticing how much their neighbors love the animals, the family created Chingóat, which is a free neighborhood activity that allows neighbors to walk, feed, or just spend time with their goats.

    The family says their free goat walks have become a popular activity, and they’re particularly beloved by Boise State University students who live nearby and cherish a chance to get a mental health break.

    “You can just like forget everything and just really be present in that moment and just look at these cute little goats and relax,” Kerry told KIVI.

    And the goats are also providing joy to people who don’t live in town.

    That’s because Chingóat offers a livestream of the goats. The “goatcam” can be viewed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    The goats have gained popularity far beyond Boise.

    “Coworkers who are in other states, even other countries … they log on as a mental health break,” Kerry said.

    To see more, watch the video from KIVI in the player above.

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  • Angela Davis leads Polk County Toys for Tots with focus and a big heart

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County’s Toys for Tots director is spending up to 70 hours a week this time of the year to make sure many kids in need have a great Christmas.

    Angela Davis took over the volunteer position several years ago after former director David Waller passed away.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Angela Davis runs Polk County’s Toys for Tots organization.

    •  The program will provide gifts to 15,000 less fortunate children in Polk. 

    •  Davis took over Polk Toys for Tots when former director Dave Waller passed away. 


    Davis had been a volunteer for the organization when Waller called her as she was preparing to play a round of golf.

    He told her to put away her clubs and to come see him in the hospital. When she got to the hospital, he told her about the brain tumor that would soon claim his life. He asked her to take over the Polk Toys for Tots program.

    “How can you say no?” she said. “Look at what this program does. The impact it makes. How could you say no?”

    Davis took the bull by the horns and got aggressive with fundraising and organizing. The program operates out of a huge warehouse in Auburndale. Toys for Tots will provide presents to more than 15,000 children from low-income families this year.

    “All right, guys. That one’s full already. Goodness. You are good,” said Davis to some volunteers on a recent morning as they were filling up boxes with stuffed animals. “They are preparing stuffed animals that we will give out to all children between two and seven,” she said.

    Each child gets a set of gifts based on the application that is filled out by their parent or guardian.  

    David grabbed one of the “shopping lists” and headed out to the tables filled with gifts based on categories. Her list was for a boy.

    “He’s nine years old. This is appropriate for a child eight plus,” she said as she held up a board game. “And based on what the child told me, this might be a good match for this young guy.”

    Literacy is a year-round effort by Toys for Tots, so children will also get a book with their gifts.

    Dozens of volunteer shoppers gather up gifts based on the lists and place them into black garbage bags with a label. That way, if a child is with their parent or guardian when they pick up the gifts, the child hopefully won’t be aware that the bag is full of gifts for them.

    Davis said she is hyper-focused on every detail of Toys for Tots. Her family tells her she becomes a little OCD.

    “You must be into the details. We are trying to serve these families,” said Davis. “We don’t want to make a mistake. We want to give these kids something special on one of the best days of the year. So of course, I have to be OCD.”

    However, she can have a softer side when approaching her work, getting emotional as she talked about the kids.

    “You know, they say there is something about the impact of doing something for a stranger and the impact it makes on you,” she said. “And I have all these wonderful people who have come in to help me make a change in a child’s life.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Daughter’s wish comes true as couple gets special wedding, trip to Disney

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    An Ohio couple tied the knot in Covington during a special ceremony in front of a special guest.This wedding centered on their 3-year-old daughter, who was born with serious health complications. The new Mr. and Mrs. Wise exchanged vows surrounded by their sweet children. The magical night was also a miracle night because their little girl was there.Doctors told the couple that the odds were stacked against baby Oakleigh.“They told us that, you know, she may not be here for this. So it is definitely very emotional,” said dad Mike.Mike and Samantha spent years making wishes in hospital waiting rooms and years wishing for more moments with their little girl.Wednesday, when it came time to kiss the bride, Oakleigh was by her parents’ side.The couple says Kenton County Magistrate Stephen Hoffman made their wish come true.Hoffman was touched by their story. He says he wanted to surprise the couple with something special, so he planned the ceremony.”I just wish that they have the best of life and everything they can do for their whole family,” says Hoffman.This special occasion is proof that love conquers all.”Have faith in your heart, because things can always turn around, and I think we’re proof of that,” said Mike.Next week, the Wise family is getting another wish granted thanks to Make-A-Wish. The foundation is sending them to Florida for a Disney World vacation.

    An Ohio couple tied the knot in Covington during a special ceremony in front of a special guest.

    This wedding centered on their 3-year-old daughter, who was born with serious health complications.

    The new Mr. and Mrs. Wise exchanged vows surrounded by their sweet children. The magical night was also a miracle night because their little girl was there.

    Doctors told the couple that the odds were stacked against baby Oakleigh.

    “They told us that, you know, she may not be here for this. So it is definitely very emotional,” said dad Mike.

    Mike and Samantha spent years making wishes in hospital waiting rooms and years wishing for more moments with their little girl.

    Wednesday, when it came time to kiss the bride, Oakleigh was by her parents’ side.

    The couple says Kenton County Magistrate Stephen Hoffman made their wish come true.

    Hoffman was touched by their story. He says he wanted to surprise the couple with something special, so he planned the ceremony.

    “I just wish that they have the best of life and everything they can do for their whole family,” says Hoffman.

    This special occasion is proof that love conquers all.

    “Have faith in your heart, because things can always turn around, and I think we’re proof of that,” said Mike.

    Next week, the Wise family is getting another wish granted thanks to Make-A-Wish. The foundation is sending them to Florida for a Disney World vacation.

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  • Veterans from Polk assemble floats for annual Orlando’s Veterans Day Parade

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — A group of Central Florida veterans is working on a special project together — assembling floats for Orlando’s 26th annual Veterans Day Parade on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Orlando’s 26th annual Veterans Day Parade is Saturday, Nov. 8

    • This year, the parade is relocating to Lake Nona from downtown and steps off at 11 a.m.

    • Festive Floats, based in Polk County, has a group of veterans who works on floats for the parade


    Bob Collins spent 22 years in the Navy. He enlisted in September 1971 and worked as a boiler operator before retiring in March 1993.

    Collins works for Festive Floats, a company based in Fort Meade in Polk County. This week, he worked on wiring electrical boxes for a float so speakers and lights can get plugged in.

    “After my military days, I’ve been a stationary engineer now for about the last 25 years working in hospitals, doing basically the same thing I was doing in the military,” Collins said.

    This year, Festive Floats co-owner Billy Attix said his team is working on floats for Commissioner Jim Gray and the Orlando Veteran Affairs office.

    “We’ve been working on the Veterans Parade for about three weeks,” Attix said. “We’re customizing some of our floats to make it military-based to honor those who have served, those who have lost their life.”

    The parade is a long-running event for residents to remember and honor those who served our nation.

    “We’re able to give back to the good, give back to humanity, bring that smile that somebody needs. Just an escape for five minutes of your normal life,” Attix said.

    Collins said he enjoys pulling the floats and seeing people have a good time, while connecting with other veterans along the way.

    “It’s kind of an honor, it really is, especially driving in the parade with the veterans on it and the Wounded Warrior people,” Collins said. “They do a lot of good work for the veterans.”

    The long-standing tradition is moving from downtown Orlando to Lake Nona for the first time.

    This year’s Veterans Day Parade will step off at 11 a.m. Saturday. The route starts at Laureate Park Elementary School and will finish at the Lake Nona Town Center.

    A ceremony and more activities for families will follow.

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    Emma Delamo

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  • Amid SNAP pause, emergency food distribution event set in Manatee County

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — The Food Bank of Manatee is hosting an emergency drive-thru food distribution event on Tuesday evening to help those affected by the pause in SNAP benefits.

    Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee President Maribeth Phillips said they are prepared to have over 1,000 people come through the food distribution event.

    It’s being held on Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dream Church, located at 1920 53rd Ave. W. in Bradenton. The drive-thru style event is on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Phillips says those who attend will leave with pre-bagged items designed to feed 30 people. Groceries include items for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, as well as fruits and vegetables.

    Typically, the Food Bank of Manatee — which is run by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee — distributes food directly to pantries and soup kitchens throughout Manatee County. The community-based organizations then hold weekly or monthly events to distribute groceries. A handful of the Food Bank of Manatee’s partners hold daily feedings, like the Mt. Carmel Community Center and Our Daily Bread.

    On Tuesday, the Food Bank of Manatee is distributing directly to residents in need.

    “Just like the crisis with COVID, we looked at this situation and said… this is another crisis and people are not going to have food,” Phillips said. “So we service over 95 pantries in Manatee County, but for this special distribution we wanted to get out there right away.”

    The Trump administration now says they plan to partially fund SNAP benefits for the month of November after two judges issued rulings requiring the government program to keep running. Lawmakers are now tapping into an emergency fund that will cover about half of the normal cost of the SNAP benefits. It’s not clear how much people who rely on SNAP will receive or how quickly that funding will be available.

    Phillips says her team is monitoring the situation and will put together a second emergency drive-thru food distribution if the need remains.

    “We’re going to see how it goes with SNAP benefits and if anything changes this week. If nothing happens, we’ll be definitely having another mass distribution,” she said.

    Phillips reported that Manatee County’s local food pantries have reported an up to 40% jump in requests for help obtaining food.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Bay area food pantry rescued by local moving company

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — An undeniable truth is that moving is stressful.

    What You Need To Know

    • With food assistance programs from the government being cut back, local food pantries are stepping up to fill the gap, including Love Thy Neighbor, which is expanding this week to serve more people

    • Love Thy Neighbor went from serving 1,000 people a month to 2,000 recently. They found a new, larger location just four blocks away

    • The problem – they had no way of moving the large freezers and refrigerators. The owner was panicked over what to do. 

    • 2 College Brothers Moving and Storage offered to move them free of charge


    “We’ve packed up most of this stuff,” said Joanne Braccio, pointing to stacked boxes with food inside.

    She is the owner of Love Thy Neighbor FL food pantry and thrift in St. Petersburg.

    The nonprofit serves anyone in need, but following back-to-back hurricanes last year, rising food prices this year and now a government shutdown, she said her customers have been struggling.

    “We’ve gone from a thousand people a month to almost two thousand. And I’m starting to watch the news this morning, and I’m really starting to get scared,” said Braccio.

    To help the increased need, they decided to move four blocks away to a larger space. But they had no way of moving the large freezers and refrigerators used in the food pantry.

    She admits she was starting to panic until she got an unexpected call.

    “God bless you, sir,” she said as she hugged Wade Swikle. “Thank you so much, this means a lot to me. I’m a little emotional now, but thank you for doing this. We couldn’t have done this without you.”

    Swikle owns 2 College Brother Moving and Storage. He heard that Braccio was struggling and knew he had a solution to her dilemma.

    He offered to move the entire food pantry and thrift store for free.

    “At the end of the day, I mean, it just makes you feel good about doing business,” said Swikle. “We’re all in business to help people. At the end of the day, we’re here to solve problems.”

    For Braccio, his kindness moved her to tears.

    “To have people help me with this, to have people that believe in what we are doing, and for the actions to be happening it’s like, I’ve prayed for this for a long time,” she said with tears in her eyes.

    The new location is on 7110 5th Avenue N in St. Pete.

    Braccio said they will be open on Thursday in their new location with the same hours. She said this was important to make sure those in need didn’t have any delay in getting food and other necessary items.

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    Erin Murray

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  • Students with disabilities embrace work opportunities at The Florida Aquarium

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    TAMPA, Fla. — October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. It is a time to recognize the positive impact people with disabilities have on the American workforce. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Pepin Academies Transition Program connects young adults to Tampa Bay area businesses to get internships and work experience post-high school. Students will spend 3-4 days a week at job sites with the guidance and supervision of a job coach

    • October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an annual recognition of the positive impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce

    • The Florida Aquarium is a participating business and has even hired some of the students on part-time

    • Through hands-on learning experiences, students are equipped with essential life and job skills, helping them explore diverse career paths


    At The Florida Aquarium in downtown Tampa, there are all kinds of jobs, from scuba-diving tank cleaners to animal experts. 

    There are even people in place to welcome guests. 

    “Hello, welcome to The Florida Aquarium,” said Casey Watson. 

    Watson is doing this as part of his internship. 

    “I meet and greet guests and I say, ‘Hello,’ like this,” as he waves his hand with a smile. 

    Casey lives with a disability. He was connected to the internship through a partnership between The Florida Aquarium and Pepin Academies’ Transition Program. 

    “It’s just a great opportunity for them to gain that confidence, to know what they can do and to be able to show others, you know, the excellent work that they can put in,” said Pepin Academies Director of Transition Program Janele Kilbey.

    The Transition Program is for students with learning disabilities. These are young adults, ages 18 to 22, who have deferred their diploma, but are looking to gain experience in a work environment. 

    There is a disparity in employment opportunities for those with disabilities.

    The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics shows the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 9.1% compared to 4.3% for people without disabilities.

    “It’s such a sad statistic to see because they can work and they’re dedicated employees and we just need community members out there to give our students and our student population a chance to be able to prove themselves,” said Kilbey.

    The Florida Aquarium is one of several Tampa Bay area businesses that know people with disabilities can add value to the workforce and the Tampa Bay economy. 

    “They’re the heartbeat of the aquarium,” said The Florida Aquarium Director of Volunteer Engagement Melissa Dude. “They’ve actually moved into paid positions with us, as a guest engagement personnel. They are hired there and then our cafe SSA is also very supportive of the program and hires on the students once they’ve graduated.”

    Aidan McCollum is one of those part-time hires. 

    He is 21 years-old and often helps with lifting windows, cleaning tables and sorting cafe supplies at The Florida Aquarium. 

    “I think it’s awesome,” said McCollum. “It’s teaching me new skills.”

    Skills he will add to his resume so that future employers can see his value and marketability. 

    Along with vocational training, the Transition Program students also spend one to two days a week with classroom instruction. 

    They work with job coaches to help with career preparation, social-emotional learning and self-advocacy.

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    Erin Murray

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  • A year after sudden cardiac arrest, young Tampa Bay man starts CPR nonprofit

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    BRANDON, Fla. — True second chances don’t come often. Andrew Emerton got his second chance at 26-years-old.

    Last year, when playing video games with friends, he went into sudden cardiac arrest.

    “One of them called 911 immediately and the other one started administering lifesaving CPR,” said Emerton. “And I believe she had to do CPR for 10 minutes straight.”

    He and several members of his family live with a rare, inherited heart gene mutation. It’s called Desmoplakin cardiomyopathy. It can increase the chance of unexpected sudden cardiac arrest.

    By luck, coincidence or divine intervention — Emerton survived.

    “And the very first thought was, ‘Dang, like a higher power is not done with me yet. I have more to do,’” said Emerton.

    Andrew Emerton lays in a hospital bed while being treated for cardiac arrest in 2024. (Andrew Emerton)

    He took months to think about what he would do with his second chance at life. While on a walk, an idea came to him.

    “Out loud I asked and I said, ‘God, if you think I’m ready, so do I.’ And within 30 seconds, the idea for Breathe Florida popped in my head… I was like, ‘This is like what I was brought back to do,’” said Emerton.

    He created Breathe Florida, a nonprofit that pays for lifesaving CPR training for high school students.

    “I was in ROTC all four years and in this high school,” said Emerton, at Brandon High School. “I can’t even count how many times I must have barged in and out of this hallway doing different things, whether it was a rifle team (or) four drill team.”

    Emerton’s picture is still on the wall outside the JROTC classroom. He was the 2017 Brandon High School JROTC Battalion Commander, the highest rank. 

    The 2025-26 school year cadets admit, they relate to Emerton and his story.

    All the current students could put themselves in Emerton’s shoes.

    “I think his story shows how real it is,” said Marielis Pena, JROTC senior.

    They also hope they could think as quickly on their feet as Emerton’s friend did with doing CPR.

    “Hanging out, playing video games, and then it just suddenly went wrong,” said Samuel Rodriguez, JROTC junior.

    There are several CPR classes now planned at Brandon High School. Emerton hopes this is just the beginning.

    “If I spread this far enough across Florida and do it for long enough, there simply will come a time where I believe this will save someone’s life,” said Emerton.

    In Hillsborough County Public Schools, hands-on CPR training is a graduation requirement.

    Breathe Florida’s classes are just additional training students can take.

    To donate to Breathe Florida, click here.

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    Erin Murray

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  • PHOTOS | NICU babies in teeny-tiny Halloween costumes

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