ReportWire

Tag: good news

  • Pasco County takes strides in effort to protect gopher tortoises

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    SPRING HILL, Fla. — Efforts are underway to better protect a species that is listed as ‘threatened’ in the Sunshine State and in Pasco County.

    That species is the gopher tortoise.

    What You Need To Know

    • Staff with Pasco County’s Parks and Recreation department are helping better protect gopher tortoises

    • Jumping Gully Preserve is acting as a sanctuary for the species, with countless tortoises having been transported to its green pastures

    • More than 144 gopher tortoises call the preserve home with staff monitoring and managing the site to ensure the population continues to grow

    • The gopher tortoise is considered a ‘keystone species’- meaning they help provide shelter for countless other animals


    The vast space of Jumping Gully Preserve is acting as a sanctuary for them.

    With an ever-developing county such as Pasco, many gopher tortoises have found a new home in its green environment.

    “We have an estimated 212 burrows out here and we only surveyed about 20% of the property. So there could be, substantially, more,” said Biologist Taylor Hays with Pasco County’s Environmental Lands and Acquisition Management Program.

    Hays stays on top of pinpointing burrows from one side of the preserve to the other.

    “You can see that’s flat on the bottom and rounded on the top,” said Hays, while pointing out a gopher tortoise burrow. “That’s obviously because of the shape of the tortoise.”

    Hays has been studying the tortoises for years, becoming an authorized gopher tortoise agent.

    “We were permitted for 144 tortoises … and the site is actually full now,” Hays said. “We’re not allowed to accept any more … but we monitor and manage to ensure the population continues to grow.”

    The tortoises, as she says, are also helping other species thrive.

    Being a ‘keystone species’ — they help provide shelter for countless other animals.

    “With gopher tortoises, they build these burrows and up to 350 species actually use them,” she said. “With it being a fire dependent habitat, they need somewhere to go, right? In a gopher tortoise burrow, you’re not going to find just a tortoise, but you could find other protected species. Like the gopher frog, the Florida mouse, eastern indigo snake and some fun ones like the rattlesnake, too.”

    Hays hopes to ensure the area’s natural habitants can live long and healthy lives.

    “The ultimate goal is to conserve and preserve these lands and restore them to their natural communities,” she said.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Pinellas County nonprofit helps save West Klosterman Preserve from development

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — Pinellas County announced Thursday it had finalized the purchase of the West Klosterman Preserve, following five years of effort from a citizens group to save the 14 acres from development.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County says it completed the $3 million purchase of the 14-acre West Klosterman Preserve

    • A group of residents has been trying to save the land from development for five years

    • The president of the nonprofit WK Preservation Group calls the purchase “wonderful,” saying it’s important to preserve the habitats on the land

    • PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Fundraising efforts continue to save preserve in Pinellas County


    “It’s wonderful,” said Tex Carter, president of the nonprofit WK Preservation Group. “We wanted to save this piece of property and make it part of the Mariner’s Point Management Area and preserve a pretty good-sized chunk of natural Florida.”

    Carter said it started with a dozen people trying to raise $3 million in six months. Back in 2020, Pinellas County Schools was considering selling the land to a developer for $3.3 million. 

    “The school board was almost ready to do a contract with the developer to turn this into 76 condos and bulldoze all the trees and all the wildlife that’s here,” Carter said.

    When residents spoke out against the move, he said the district offered them the chance to buy it for $3 million. According to Carter, the steps they took to become a nonprofit prompted an extension of the original six-month deadline. Eventually, Pinellas County offered to share the cost. The preserve borders the county’s 76-acre Mariner’s Point Management Area.

    “This is one active ecosystem integrated with different kinds of habitat for different kinds of plants and animals,” Carter said of the two properties. “If you took this out and turned it into condos, it would destroy the ecosystem all the way down to the ocean.”

    Pinellas County announced Thursday it had finalized the purchase of the West Klosterman Preserve, following five years of effort from a citizens group to save the 14 acres from development. (Spectrum News/Sarah Blazonis)

    He told Spectrum News the nonprofit collected more than 2,000 donations ranging from $10 to $350,000. 

    “That brought us together, the county and us together, to do more than we would have been able to do as individuals, and that’s a good thing,” said Carter. “It’s really great for people when people realize they can make a difference with government, and it’s always great when government responds to its people.”

    According to the county, the West Klosterman Preserve is specifically meant for habitat preservation and will remain a non-public zone. Carter said as part of the nonprofit’s agreement with the county, there is a chance it could eventually include walking trails. That would only happen if it can be shown there would be no impact on the environment.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • FEAST Food Pantry opens new facility in Palm Harbor

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    PALM HARBOR, Fla. — After years of fundraising and planning, a Palm Harbor food pantry is opening its brand-new facility.

    What You Need To Know

    • FEAST Food Pantry held a ribbon cutting Monday to open its new facility in Palm Harbor

    • The new facility is on Nebraska Avenue and next to Grace Community Church

    • Along with the facility, it has four other donation boxes where people can donate food 24/7


    FEAST Food Pantry had spent the last nine months operating out of a fire department building and now has its own building ready to go.

    Just a can, can go a long way — especially if you’re hungry but can’t afford groceries.

    Obviously, one can of tuna isn’t exactly a feast, but the folks at FEAST Food Pantry see each donation and food item as a true gift for someone who needs sustenance.

    That’s why Joe Cilento has been volunteering here for nearly six years.

    “I feel proud,” Cilento said. “I feel very proud. The volunteers I’ve met here are great people.”

    Cilento suffered a stroke before volunteering and said if he got better, he’d find a way to do some good, which is why he’s here.

    “My official job is I pick things up, I put things down,” Cilento said.

    As you could imagine, Cilento is selling his work short.

    FEAST gets donations daily, sometimes by the truckful and has them sorted and eventually bagged to give to people.

    For the longest time, it was operating out of an old building where Cilento says there were holes in the floor and had just run its course.

    Now, that changes with this new building on Nebraska Avenue.

    “Before, we had two dilapidated trailers that were kind of cobbled together that were a mess,” said Tamara Black, executive director of FEAST Food Pantry. “And as we saw the growth, we knew we need a new building.”

    According to Black, last year they gave food to roughly 54,000 people, so the need to update and enhance their space was huge.

    “it’s been very fulfilling for me personally to see families in need who are suffering from food insecurity, be able to come here to a safe and welcoming environment and obtain food for their families,” Black said.

    But that suffering isn’t expected to drop in the near future.

    Back in March, the U.S. Department of Agriculture canceled food deliveries to food banks and cut back assistance by hundreds of millions of dollars.

    While the funding isn’t impacting FEAST specifically, according to Black, they do anticipate that recent federal cuts will impact people in Pinellas County who will ultimately need food assistance as a result.

    “We’re projecting that we’re going to see 75,000 people in 2025 because of those cuts,” Black said.

    It’s something Cilento worries about, too.

    “We’re concerned,” he said. “The need is there. Every day we sign on, register more clients.”

    But even with that outlook, he sees the upgrades FEAST has made and knows higher ups, like Black, are moving the food pantry in the right direction to help as many people as they possibly can.

    Having that can-do attitude makes all the difference.

    FEAST Food Pantry’s building is right next to Grace Community Church in Palm Harbor.

    Along with the facility, it has four other donation boxes where people can donate food 24/7.

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    Nick Popham

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  • Lakeland man who rescued child from burning car receives Carnegie Medal

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — A Lakeland man who rescued a 3-year-old boy from a burning car in November has received North America’s highest award for civilian heroism.

    What You Need To Know

    • AJ Slater, a Lakeland man, received the Carnegie Medal for rescuing a 3-year-old boy from a burning car on Nov. 7

    • Slater, who was severely burned in the rescue, now uses his experience to encourage others to take action in emergency situations and refrain from driving under the influence.

    • Slater says he didn’t know he was one of 17 recipients until he received a letter in the mail


    While 30-year-old AJ Slater is thought to be the first person from Polk County to be honored with a Carnegie Medal, he still carries the scars from last year.

    “I think about it all the time, but I try not to think about it, but there are worse times than others when I do break down. I do get emotional,” he said.

    Slater kept his composure as he recounted the tragic car accident on Nov. 7 that injured mother Logan Deines’ 3-year-old son, Walker, and killed her 5-year-old daughter, JoLynn.

    The Polk County Sheriff’s Office says the two children were in the car with their father, 30-year-old Kody Wills, when he crashed into a wooded area at the intersection of Broadway Street and Lake Parker Drive East. According to a toxicology report from the University of Florida Pathology Lab, Wills’ blood alcohol content was 0.25 — three times the legal limit. He now faces several charges, including DUI manslaughter and negligent child abuse, and is awaiting trial.

    Wills’ car collided with a tree, causing it to catch on fire. Slater says he jumped into action after hearing cries for help just blocks away from his home. That’s when he reached into the burning car and pulled out Walker first. He tried to rescue JoLynn, but she didn’t survive.

    “It’s a heartbreak for me. It will always be,” Slater said.

    Since being treated at Tampa General Hospital for second and third-degree burns, Slater has developed a strong bond with Deines and Walker. He’s also been recognized for his heroism. His most recent award, the Carnegie Medal, was given to people living in the U.S. and Canada who risk their own lives to save or attempt to save the lives of others.

    Slater says he didn’t know he was one of 17 recipients until he received a letter in the mail.

    “I’m very grateful, I’m very thankful for it. All these awards are reminders of JoLynn to me. I know I could save Walker, but I could never let go of the fact that I wasn’t able to save both children,” he said. “Being considered a hero, thank you. I’m thankful, I’m grateful, but to me, I’m just a normal person.”

    Now, Slater encourages others to save a life too, whether it’s refraining from getting behind the wheel while under the influence or stepping in the next time seeing someone else in need.

    Along with the Carnegie Medal, each recipient will receive a $7,500 prize. Slater says he plans to use the money to pay off his medical bills.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Harbor House’s work in domestic violence stands as legacy for feminist pioneer

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    ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — What Barbara Moore pushed for in the 1970s was novel: She wanted to tackle domestic violence head-on and providing resources to save lives.

    What You Need To Know

    • Barbara Moore turned her personal pain into a pioneering fight against domestic violence in the 1970s

    • Harbor House, the predecessor of the organization founded by Moore, is now the largest domestic violence shelter in Florida

    • The legacy of Moore’s activism has empowered generations, but challenges in combating domestic violence remain

    • The future vision for Harbor House includes broader education and mentorship to stop violence before it starts

    But, according to her daughter, Moore lived by her own rulebook.

    “She was a feminist. It was her mission to get people in crisis the help they needed,” Melissa Moore said. “I’m very proud for her, very proud of her contribution.”

    Barbara founded Spouse Abuse Inc., which would go on to become Harbor House. Five decades ago, she healed from her divorce by helping others in Central Florida and championing a cause that was, at the time, progressive.

    “Most people thought that violence in the home was a private family affair and resented her for bringing it up,” Melissa said. “So it was courageous of her to call out domestic violence in the 1970s.”

    As a child, Melissa was right by her mother’s side, even meeting social activist Gloria Steinem. 

    And some things Melissa saw all those years ago still stick with her to this day. 

    “We did keep families in our home. We had a spare bedroom, to hide them,” she said. “As an adult, I look back on it and am like, ‘That was kind of crazy,’ because you can see how dangerous it is.”

    But Harbor House today is much more than a crisis hotline, which happened to be the first step Barbara took in creating Spouse Abuse Inc.

    It’s also bigger than a protected 9-acre campus — with 136 beds, it’s the largest domestic violence shelter under one roof.

    According to the nonprofit’s chief executive officer, Michelle Sperzel, Harbor House also works alongside public defenders and attorneys from the fifth floor of the Orange County courthouse to help those escaping from domestic violence situations file injunctions.

    “A lot of times, when people think of domestic violence, they think of people who need to flee,” Sperzel said. “That’s absolutely true. But it’s one part of all the puzzle pieces that need to come together.” 

    As Harbor House eyes the future and the creation of an essential “one-stop shop” for domestic violence assistance — or a family justice center — it is leaning into partnerships with law enforcement and the clerk of courts. Additionally, it is partnering up with Orange County Public Schools to teach students about healthy relationships — and the organization’s leaders hope to create a mentoring program to help stop violence before it starts.

    “All of us have continued that good work together,” Sperzel said. “People say it takes a village to raise children. It takes a community to help people navigate through a domestic violence situation.”

    Meanwhile, in the Tampa Bay area, CASA, the Citrus County Abuse Shelter, opened a family justice center in 2022 in St. Petersburg. It’s the only such center in the state of Florida at the moment, providing survivors with on-site childcare, legal advice, mental health counselors and other resources.

    Per CASA coordinators, domestic violence survivors also get matched with advocates so they can tell their story just once — and avoid being re-traumatized.

    As for the woman in Central Florida who started it all, surviving paralysis from polio as a child and later going on to obtain her master’s degree at what is now the University of Central Florida, the life of an activist was not easy. Barbara Moore died in 1991 from pancreatic cancer.

    But Melissa said what her mother she did five decades ago has her thanking her lucky stars — and her mother, Barbara — to this day. 

    “And if it weren’t for her generation’s feminist activism, I wouldn’t have been able to own my own house, gotten my own bank accounts or pursue any career that interests me,” she said.

    On the future of Harbor House, Melissa said: “Ultimately, I would like for it to be unnecessary. But we’re a long way away from that.”

    Harbor House’s 24-hour crisis hotline is 407-886-2856.

    For anyone in need of help in the Tampa Bay area, CASA’s 24-hour hotline is 727-895-4912. Outside Pinellas County, the number is 800-500-1119.

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    Julie Gargotta

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  • Do Good Day gathers dozens of nonprofits groups looking for volunteers

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Whether it’s delivering meals or rescuing injured wildlife, there are dozens of nonprofit groups in the Tampa Bay area looking for volunteers.

    And Do Good Day is a chance for residents to find their community.

    On Saturday, March 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ferg’s Sports Bar and Grill, you can find your tribe of do-gooders.

    What You Need To Know

    • The second annual Do Good Day is Saturday, March 29 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill, 1320 Central Ave., St. Pete

    • There are several other ways residents can get involved from things like trash pickup to squirrel rescue
    • One organization that will be returning for the event is Keep Pinellas Beautiful

    • Pat DePlasco, head of Keep Pinellas Beautiful, says the nonprofit is always looking for volunteers


    One organization that will be returning for the second annual event is Keep Pinellas Beautiful: A group that’s perfect if you have a buddy that brings a trash bucket on hikes.

    Members of Keep Pinellas Beautiful pick up an average of 500 pounds of trash weekly from the Gandy Beach.

    Pat DePlasco, the head of the organization, thinks area residents can do better.

    “What can we do better? How about not litter in the first place?” said DePlasco.

    The thin strip of sand at the foot of the Gandy Bridge is just one of the areas Keep Pinellas Beautiful cleans. DePlasco said the nonprofit organization is always looking for volunteers.

    “That’s our workforce,” she said, casing the beach and picking up straws, cigarettes, and a single serving bag of Cheetos.

    It’s why Do Good Day is so important for her group and dozens of other Tampa Bay area nonprofits: It’s a chance to meet like-minded helpers.

    DePlasco has been a trash picker-upper all her life.

    “Why? It’s not because I love picking up trash. It just because I love where I live,” she said, using a trash grabber to gesture to Tampa Bay.

    This is DePlasco’s purpose.

    To keep paradise, well, paradisey.

    “The effort it takes to take a piece of trash and put it in a bag and carry it to the trash can is nothing in comparison to what we have to do to fix it,” said DePlasco.

    And her ultimate goal for Keep Pinellas Beautiful?

    To close — because we all start doing better.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • The Florida Aquarium releases sea turtle found a mile from the Gulf

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — A green sea turtle that was found more than a mile from the ocean last November is making its way home, The Florida Aquarium officials announced Wednesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Buckley, a green sea turtle that was found more than a mile from the ocean last November, is making its way home, The Florida Aquarium officials announced Wednesday

    • The sea turtle spent three months of rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach

    • During rehab, Buckley garnered community support

    • Buckley returns to the Gulf with a satellite tag attached to its shell, allowing the community and biologists to track Buckley’s travels and gather conservation data


    After three months of rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach, team members returned the sea turtle, named Buckley, to the Gulf’s waters.

    “This is why we do what we do — to see a once-struggling sea turtle like Buckley return home, stronger and healthier. It’s heartwarming,” said Ashley Riese, The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program Director. “Buckley’s recovery is a testament to the incredible collaboration between rescuers, the Aquarium’s animal care team, veterinarians, and our entire community.”

    Watch video of Buckley’s release:


    Buckley’s rescue began when Good Samaritans discovered the turtle in trouble on a dirt road in rural Dixie County in November, a good distance away from the ocean. A call to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Hotline set lifesaving efforts in motion.

    The University of Florida Marine Animal Rescue had initially responded, stabilizing Buckley, before transferring the turtle to The Florida Aquarium for treatment. For the past three months, the aquarium’s staff helped the turtle regain weight, stabilize low blood sugar levels and heal scratches to its bottom shell from navigating rough terrain.

    Buckley, named after the nearby Buck Creek, has garnered community support, especially from local businessman Ed Buckley, a marine conservation advocate who wanted to help after discovering Buckley’s name.

    “When I heard they rescued a turtle with my same name, I knew I had to get involved,” he said. “There’s a strong connection between Buckley and me — maybe it’s the name, maybe it’s kindred spirits — but one thing I do know is that protecting sea turtles is important. Their survival depends on all of us stepping up and hope the community will be compelled to help as well.”

    Ed donated $7,500 to underwrite the turtle’s medical expenses and encouraged others to contribute to support Buckley’s care, which has topped $10,000.

    Buckley embarks on a new journey with a satellite tag attached to its shell. This allows the community and biologists to track Buckley’s travels and gather conservation data.

    Each time Buckley surfaces to breathe, the tag will send a signal to a satellite, enabling real-time tracking of feeding habits, migratory patterns and environmental conditions like water temperatures. This will help scientists at The Florida Aquarium better understand sea turtle behaviors and improve future sea turtle rehabilitation efforts.

     

    View additional photos of Buckley and his release:

     

     

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    DeJanae Phillips, Anna Wronka

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  • Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez reopens after sustaining damage during Helene

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Despite some setbacks, Slicker’s Eatery is back open after Hurricane Helene flooded and damaged the restaurant.

    Bob Slicker opened his restaurant in Cortez in 2021, but had been closed for the past four months.

    Slicker said he had to start from scratch and replace everything after the storm last year flooded the entire restaurant.

    “Seeing the destruction of the place, I didn’t know if I had the intent of reopening or just getting it cleaned out,” he said.

    What You Need To Know

    • Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez is back open after being closed for 4 months after Hurricane Helene flooded and damaged the restaurant

    • Bob Slicker acquired a small business loan to get it back up and running again

    • The owner said he’s anticipating Slicker’s Eatery will return to full business hours next week

    After acquiring a small business loan, and with the support of the community, he was able to rebuild and reopen.

    “We know we are never going to make up what we lost, but if we can get ahead, that’s cool,” he expressed.

    Slicker said the closure had a ripple effect.

    “You not only lose your income, but the bills don’t stop coming. We had health insurance, electric, gas, rent for the building…all of that stuff never stops. The four months were very long for us,” he said.

    But now, he has one main goal:

    “Seeing people smile and giving the best product we can give them,” he said.

    Slicker’s Eatery also won the Small Business Award from The Anna Maria Chamber of Commerce. The owner says he’s anticipating Slicker’s Eatery will return to full business hours next week.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • ZooTampa celebrates its first animal birth of the year

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    TAMPA, Fla. — ZooTampa at Lowry Park welcomed a new addition this year — a critically endangered Eastern bongo calf.

    What You Need To Know

    • ZooTampa at Lowry Park welcomed a critically endangered Eastern bongo calf this year

    • The calf, named Millie, was born on Jan. 24 and weighed over 22 pounds

    • Five Eastern bongos currently reside at ZooTampa


    The calf, named Millie, was born on Jan. 24 to nine-year-old mother Blitzen, and weighed over 22 pounds, according to officials with the zoo.

    ZooTampa said that Millie received a neonatal exam from the zoo’s animal health team and was found to be healthy and thriving.

    ZooTampa at Lowry Park welcomed a critically endangered Eastern bongo calf, Millie, on Jan. 24., 2025. (Courtesy: ZooTampa)

    Five Eastern bongos currently reside at ZooTampa: male Marvin; females Blitzen, Lottie, Binti, and now Millie, zoo officials said.

    “Bongos are critically endangered, so every birth is incredibly special,” said Tiffany Burns, Senior Director of Animal Programs at ZooTampa. “This birth represents an important step in our ongoing efforts to help ensure the survival of this beautiful species.”

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    Anna Wronka

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  • Polk County standout returns to pro basketball, joins the Big3

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — One Polk County pro basketball player is returning to professional basketball after an injury ended his career.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dazeran Jones is returning to professional basketball after a foot injury ended his playing career 

    • Over the years, Jones found unique ways to stay in the sport, including becoming a motion-capture actor for NBA 2K series

    • Now, he’s preparing for the Big3, a 3-on-3 pro basketball league owned by rapper Ice Cube


    Dazeran Jones experienced a passion for the sport on a larger scale when he played collegiately for N.A.I.A Warner University and later spent time with the Jacksonville Giants of the American Basketball Association.

    “This is my first championship trophy,” he said, pointing to a championship ring. “This one means a lot to me because it’s a big ring. Like, we earned it — game by game, practicing every day, fighting through adversity.”

    Unfortunately, Jones faced his biggest challenge when a foot injury forced him to end his playing career. But he wasn’t ready to give up the game, and he found unique ways to stay in the sport. In 2022, Jones started a career as a motion-capture actor for the popular video game series, NBA 2K. That role also helped him land a part in the reboot of the movie, “White Men Can’t Jump.” 

    “I started taking acting a little more seriously after that,” he said. “I still have a lot to learn, but that jump-started an acting career through basketball.”

    Jones missed the game itself, though, and decided to try out for the Big3, a 3-on-3 pro basketball league owned by rapper Ice Cube. Although he initially went undrafted, he received a call a couple of weeks later from the team “The Killer 3s,” expressing interest.

    Dazeran Jones playing in the Big3. (Photo Courtesy: Dazeran Jones)

    “Everybody embraced me from here to here, from Ice Cube to the regular staff,” he said. “I met a lot of different people, a lot of greats. Probably everybody touched the NBA in that league, other than two or three players out of the whole league. These were once lottery picks. These are legends.”

    Now, Jones gets to play alongside the men he grew up watching. To prepare for the upcoming Big3 season, he trains with his childhood best friend, Terry Rose, on the same court where he first played.

    “We train every day if we can,” Rose said.

    Not only does this opportunity serve as inspiration for Jones’ children, it’s also a reminder to the community he loves.

    “There’s more than one way to get to Walmart,” he said.

    Or, in Jones’ case, more than one way to reach a goal.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Babson Park restaurant fulfills Christmas wishes for students in need

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    BABSON PARK, Fla. — In a place where no one leaves hungry, the Crooked Bass Grill and Tavern strives to ensure fewer children go without.

    What You Need To Know

    • Every year the Crooked Bass Grill and Tavern collects Christmas gifts for students in need at Lake Wales High School

    • The restaurant displays names and wishlists of students for customers to choose from

    • The goal is to eventually create a housing program to help these students year-round


    Every year, co-owner Tammy Bracewell hangs the names and wish lists of hundreds of SIT students on the restaurant’s Christmas tree. Her customers are then given the opportunity to choose a child to donate gifts to.

    “What really warms my heart is helping the children and seeing that our customers embrace this,” she said. “We purchase things as well, but all of the gifts—I just put the tags on the tree, and our customers take them faster than I can put them up.”

    Bracewell says she learns about the children’s wishes from Jane Lewis, who oversees the McKinney-Vento program at Lake Wales High School.

    The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures students experiencing homelessness have the right to attend school without barriers.

    “Systemwide, we have about 400 in the program, but here at the high school, it’s 124—living in a tent, living in a car, what we call couch surfing. They go from home to home,” Lewis said.

    With the support of community partners like Bracewell, Lewis says she’s able to provide food, uniforms, and life-changing resources to students year-round. But Christmas is especially meaningful to her, as she’s often brought to tears by students’ reactions.

    “Because, I mean, some of these kids—what they struggle with, what they go through—it’s just heartbreaking,” she said. “Some days, my days are so sad. So sad. But other days, I’m so filled up with these kids.”

    Now that each kid has received a taste of holiday joy, Bracewell says there’s more to be done. The ultimate goal is to compile a list of donors willing to fund a transitional housing program.

    “So they’re not leaving school and worrying about where they’re going to get their next meal and if they have a safe place to sleep tonight,” Bracewell said.

    In the meantime, the tavern’s doors are open for a child in need, whether it’s for a warm meal or a gift under the tree.

    To support Lake Wales High School’s McKinney-Vento program, call the front desk at 863-678-4222.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Pasco mail carrier helps baby choking on Halloween candy

    Pasco mail carrier helps baby choking on Halloween candy

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A Pasco County postal worker is being hailed as a Halloween hero. It comes after she jumped into action to help a child choking on a piece of candy. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County mail carrier Kandi Young is being praised for her actions in helping an 18-month-old who was choking on a piece of Halloween candy

    • Young was heading back to the office after finishing her route on Oct. 31 when she saw the child’s mother, Morgan Osborne, standing in the road calling for help

    • Osborne said her three-year-old gave the candy to her younger child after a trunk-or-treat event

    • Young’s supervisor tells us she’s been nominated for the Postmaster General Heroes’ Program for her actions


    “Honestly, it’s almost surreal, because I was not at all thinking. It just was pure drive. I wanted to make sure that baby was safe,” said Kandi Young, a rural part-time flexible mail carrier.

    Young was heading back to the Trinity Carrier Annex after finishing her mail route on Oct. 31. At the same time, Morgan Osborne, of Moon Lake, was leaving a trunk-or-treat event at her daughters’ school. Neither woman knew they were about to find themselves in the middle of a real life Halloween horror.

    “She wasn’t breathing. She was actually foaming at the mouth,” said Young.

    “She 100% turned purple,” said Osborne. “It was the scariest thing that ever happened to me.”

    Osborne’s three-year-old daughter had given a WarHeads candy to her 18-month-old, and she was choking.

    “I pulled her out of the car. I started screaming, freaking out. I’ve never freaked out this bad in my whole, entire life,” Osborne said.

    It happened at the intersection of Little Road. and Plathe Road in New Port Richey. 

    “All I see is a postal truck fly around the corner,” Osborne said.

    “She was yelling, and I believe she was screaming, ‘My baby!’” said Young.

    Young took the girl and performed the Heimlich maneuver.

    “I threw that candy — I don’t even know where it’s at — and I just hugged the baby, and I was holding her to me,” she said. “I could hear her gasping for breath when she finally was able to.”

    She said her quick thinking was part instinct — she’s a mom to two girls as well — and part training.

    “When my youngest was born in 2020, she had a disorder that caused her to be in the NICU for 13 days,” Young said. “For babies to come out of the NICU, to ‘graduate’, as they say, you have to, as a parent, have CPR and Heimlich maneuver training.”

    After handing the baby over to Osborne, it was right back to work.

    “I went back so I could get the mail in on time, since we’re also in the middle of an election and we have ballots,” said Young.

    “We did get to text each other, and I did let her know how grateful I am for her. Honestly, she saved my child’s life,” Osborne said.

    Osborne said her daughter was examined by paramedics after the incident and is doing well.

    Young’s supervisor, Allen Milletics, said he nominated her for the Postmaster General Heroes’ Program. According to USPS’s website, it honors postal workers who go above and beyond to help their communities.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Disabled Sunny Shores Park resident receives special order fridge and supplies

    Disabled Sunny Shores Park resident receives special order fridge and supplies

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    CORTEZ, Fla. — In the wake of the devastating floods from Hurricane Helene, many were left with nothing inside their homes, including all of their appliances.

    One man is getting a much-needed gift, thanks to the Blessing Bags Project, a nonprofit currently helping hurricane victims in Cortez.

    What You Need To Know

    • Right now, the Blessing Bags Project, a nonprofit, is helping Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton victims in Cortez

    • JD White has cerebral palsy and received a special order fridge from the organization

    • The Blessing Bags Project is also looking for further donations and volunteers

    Betsy Plante is the coordinator for the nonprofit and says most of the people living in Sunny Shores Park are elderly, and need help.

    “I always trying to be a good steward of what’s given to us,” she said. “We have a whole signup list here. So if somebody needs a refrigerator, if they need a dehumidifier, small appliances, toaster, other things like that, they come in and they sign up for it.”

    Recently, Plante was able to deliver a special ordered refrigerator to JD White who is a Sunny Shores Park resident and has cerebral palsy.

    “This is for you, honey. Made just for you; you deserve it,” said Plante as she was delivering the fridge.

    “Oh, thank you, thank you,” said White. “Because of my disability, I don’t drive, so it’s harder for me to get things, harder to get around.”

    White’s home was gutted due to Hurricane Helene.

    “This was the worst storm,” he said. “I didn’t leave because I didn’t think it would be that bad.”

    Items like the refrigerator are what White needs before he can move back home.

    “This house is my world, my sanctuary,” he said.

    Other residents in of need meals, cleaning supplies or hygiene products can head to the clubhouse to the Sunny Shores Park Clubhouse.

    Volunteers will be serving meals every day from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and then will be accepting donations from the community.

    Here is a current list of the most needed donations:

    Location: Sunny Shores Park Club House 36th Ave W & 117th St. W

    • Laundry detergent
    • Dinty Moore meals
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Bactine, which is a pain reliever
    • Dish soap
    • Black contractor bags
    • Empty spray bottles

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee resident turns disability into strength through fitness

    Manatee resident turns disability into strength through fitness

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, and one resident in Manatee County has found strength in his disability, now hoping to help others.

    What You Need To Know

    • Robby Andrews had an accident in 2007 and found recovery in working out
    • In 2019 he started his business called 40X Max Performance and plans on helping adults and kids with disabilities
    • He strengthened his body and mind with fitness and overtime was able to retain a full-time job at Apollo Medical Transport

    When Robby Andrews steps foot in the gym, it’s go time.

    “Working out is my new drug. It replaces all of my anxiety during the day,” Andrews said.

    Fitness has been life-changing for Andrews since his accident in 2007.

    “The elevator was out in a condo, so I was using the stairway to go up. I ended up going out the fifth-floor window. I broke both my femurs, crushed my pelvis, had facial reconstruction, and was in a coma for six months. I spent about a year in the trauma unit with a spinal cord injury, and they said it would be a miracle if I ever walked again,” he said.

    But he did.

    He took his first steps in 2015 and started working out two years later.

    “As a spinal cord injury patient, my left side was the worst — it was dying. Lifting weights, stretching, and exercising gave me feeling back,” he explained.

    This led him to start his own personal training business, called 40X Max Performance.

    “I’m not a fan of people telling you what you can’t do. I’ll tell you what you can do, and I’ll sit by your side and tell you that you can do it.”

    Andrews also works full time at Apollo Medical Transport.

    “I love it because it’s a chance for me to give back. I used to be transported all the time when I first had my accident,” he said.

    He feels like he’s making a difference.

    “I transport a lot of people with amputations, and when they see me walk in, it gives them a glimmer of hope. That brings joy to my day,” he explained.

    For Andrews, it’s been a long road, but he’s adjusted.

    “To me, it’s natural. If I didn’t have a disability, I’d feel like something was wrong because it’s so natural to me now not to have a leg,” he said.

    Now, he’s focused on helping others.

    “I know how treacherous that can be — the fear of the unknown when you’re traveling and can’t control yourself. When they see me and hear a little bit about my story and what I went through, it just makes their ride so much easier,” he explained.

    Andrews has turned his difficulty into his strength, and he’s determined to help others do the same.

    In the future, Andrews plans to become a personal trainer for children with disabilities.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Beloved music instructor to be inducted in Polk’s Arts & Culture Hall of Fame

    Beloved music instructor to be inducted in Polk’s Arts & Culture Hall of Fame

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    WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — The Polk County Arts and Culture Alliance will celebrate its annual Hall of Fame Gala Tuesday. This year, the group will induct five local legends, including beloved music instructor Dr. Jessie Davis Owens.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Polk County Arts and Culture Alliance will induct five people into its Hall of Fame Tuesday

    • Inductee, Dr. Jessie Owens, has taught jazz and classical music to Polk County students for the past 50 years

    • The Arts and Culture Hall of Fame Gala will be held at Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven


    Owens first sat behind a piano during her middle school band class. She later learned to play more instruments and spent the last 50 years sharing her knowledge of jazz and classical music with Polk County students.

    “It makes me feel wonderful that I touched somebody’s mind and given them the gift of love,” Owens said.

    Since retiring, Owens has held most of her classes in her home. She teaches people of all ages through her nonprofit, the Dr. J. Owens Academy of Fine Arts, including 9th grader Zyonn McGriff.

    “Her impact on me has been really special to me and my connection through music,” McGriff said.

    Owens’ impact on the community has earned her several awards and recognitions over the years.

    Recently, the city of Winter Haven declared Oct. 15 Dr. Jessie Davis Owens Day. Now, she looks forward to being inducted into the Polk Arts and Culture Hall of Fame.

    “It’s been quite a surprise. Really, honestly, I’m honored and humbled, and just overjoyed,” she said.

    But like any true musician, Owens said this recognition wasn’t something she strived for.

    “I wasn’t doing it for show, or fashion, or form,” she said. “It’s just a passion of mine. I just love music. I love singing. I love playing. I love conducting it.”

    Most importantly, she loves sharing music with others, which is what she plans to do behind her piano for years to come.

    The Hall of Fame Gala will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 29 at the Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven. For tickets to attend, click here.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Goodwill Scholar shares secrets to success

    Goodwill Scholar shares secrets to success

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — No matter who you are, at some point in your life, you are faced with obstacles.

    For one Central Florida man, that hurdle came in the form of a language barrier — and a lack of confidence in himself.

    But when Ismael Hernandez leaned into his new position at Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, the roadblocks began to melt away.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Ismael Hernandez moved from Puerto Rico in 2018

    •  He lacked confidence in his English language skills — and in himself — but found his way to Goodwill

    •  The organization built his confidence, and eventually, Hernandez earned promotions

    • He’s now taking advantage of the Goodwill Scholars program and going back to school


    “I was able to gain trust upon myself and change my mindset,” he said.

    Hernandez started at Goodwill in January 2020. The now production team leader for the Lake Nona store oversees textile productions in the warehouse.

    But four years ago, he could’ve never imagined himself leading a team, especially concerned about his English language skills.

    “Since Goodwill was my first job, it was little bit impossible in my thinking at that time I could be a leader in management,” he said. “English not being my first language, it was a little bit difficult at the beginning. I didn’t learn English until my elementary and middle school in Puerto Rico.”

    Over time working at the store, Hernandez said that his confidence — and vocabulary — grew. He took on new roles and opportunities.

    More recently, he embraced a new challenge: returning to school to gain a bachelor’s degree in business and organizational leadership — on the organization’s dime.

    “For a lot of our students who are getting their degrees, their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, we’re paying for their school, and many of them are going through debt-free,” said Danika Hansen, speaking of the Goodwill Scholars program.

    Hansen, the prosperity planner team lead, said the program is open to all part-time and full-time Goodwill employees, with the organization footing up to $5,250 per calendar year for any trade or collegiate program.

    For Hernandez, connecting with Goodwill Scholars was a life-changing experience.

    “He wanted to go back to school so he could get a better job in the future,” Hansen said. “He started going to Valencia to get his bachelor’s degree. It’s helped him with his education and experience in the store, being able to move up, but also his confidence in knowing what he wants to do with his life.”

    For the man who once suffered from a lack of confidence, the shift in even his own perspective was a welcome surprise that is now paying dividends. He hopes to graduate in December 2025.

    “Knowing that I can do more than what I’m thinking I was able to accomplish … always see the big picture and always try new things,” he said. “Always believe in yourself … and push yourself to the next level.”

    Per the organization, 176 Goodwill Scholars across the six-county Central Florida region have been served with some sort of scholarship assistance.

     

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    Julie Gargotta

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  • A+ Teacher shares love of the arts with students

    A+ Teacher shares love of the arts with students

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    HOLMES BEACH, Fla. — Beth McIntosh has been a teacher for 34 years and has spent the last nine at Anna Maria Elementary School. She attended that school growing up and now teaches art and music classes there.

    What You Need To Know

    • Beth McIntosh is this week’s A+ Teacher

    • She attended Anna Maria Elementary School and has been teaching there for the last nine years

    • McIntosh teaches art, music and movement classes and she leads the theater productions put on by the students

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

    “Being a student here and then coming back and being a teacher here, it’s pretty awesome,” said McIntosh.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 walked the halls with McIntosh, and she showed her students’ artwork displayed throughout the school.

    “They recognize their artwork, and they feel a part of something. That’s always important and it’s part of why we do what we do,” said McIntosh.

    McIntosh teaches art, music and movement classes and she leads the theater productions put on by the students.

    “That’s the most thrilling thing for me and the most emotional thing for me is to see the kids just light up wherever they are, in the art room, the music room, on the stage,” said McIntosh.

    McIntosh says she loves watching her students find their creative spark and feel comfortable highlighting their work.

    “It’s the best feeling in the world to see that and their little faces lit up and proud of themselves and happy that they’re on the stage,” said McIntosh.

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    Jorja Roman

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  • Tom and Cindy Hicks are beloved for playing Santa and Mrs. Clause in Polk County

    Tom and Cindy Hicks are beloved for playing Santa and Mrs. Clause in Polk County

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — A Lakeland couple has become beloved figures in Polk County for playing the part of Santa and Mrs. Claus. And it is not something they do only around Christmas time.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tom Hicks brought a Santa outfit at a yard sale in the early 2000s

    • He went to a Santa school in 2016

    • Tom and Cindy Hicks appear as Santa and Mrs. Claus in the annual Lakeland Christmas parade

    • The Hickses say they love bringing joy to families and children


    Tens of thousands of people see Tom Hicks and his wife Cindy Hicks as Santa and Mrs. Claus on the final float of the annual Lakeland Christmas parade.

    “And we just have such a wonderful time, waving and greeting them and wishing them a Merry Christmas,” said Tom Hicks. “And they have received us so well. So, it’s been a lot of fun.”

    Tom and Cindy Hicks appear at many events like the Lakeland Police Department’s Cops for Kids event, where disadvantaged children get Christmas toys at the event.

    “I have had some children hug me so tight, it’s like they just don’t want to let go. It’s like they just don’t get that a lot,” he said.

    Tom Hicks got started playing the part of St. Nick when he bought a Santa suit in the early 2000s. Back then, he was using a fake beard. He made a few appearances as Santa and then he started getting lots of requests. Tom Hicks went to a Santa school in 2016 and has been growing his beard since then.

    Recently, the couple appeared at a summer Christmas event at the Lake Mirror Center. It was put on by Tri-County Human Services where Tom Hicks works as a marketing representative. The agency provides mental health programs and drug and alcohol addiction treatments.

    Tri-County Marketing Executive Ivon Ruz is a big fan of Tom Hicks’ work as Santa.

    “It’s just him. He’s awesome,” she said. “His demeanor, his passion for what he does. He is the same person at home, anywhere you see him. Everybody recognizes him. He is the real Santa Claus.”

    Playing the part of Santa and Mrs. Claus is more than just a gig for Tom and Cindy Hicks.

    “It’s just the joy that you bring to children and families,” he said. “To see their reaction, their surprise. And then the joy, the smiles on their faces as they interact. The children really express a lot of love back.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Eckerd College students feeling good by feeling safe

    Eckerd College students feeling good by feeling safe

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Through September, Weapon Brand, a small business in St. Pete, is offering free self-defense classes to a select group.

    The company’s classes mix fitness with practical skills for personal empowerment.

    Weapon Brand offers other courses in personal safety as well.

    What You Need To Know

    • Weapon Brand self defense is holding free courses for Eckerd College incoming freshmen  

    • Weapon Brand’s classes mix fitness with practical skills for personal empowerment
    • 22 Eckerd College students new to campus life are taking the class


    A group of students from Eckerd College recently took the high-speed combatives self-defense workshop and is feeling good by feeling safe.

    Madison Prois is jumping into something new.

    “I at least jump off the Pier once a week and I can’t wait to keep getting in the water,” Prois said.

    She is new to the area and is getting into self-defense as she starts her in her first year at Eckerd College.

    “I do carry around pepper spray so that’s also helpful but that could always go wrong,” she said. “It’s not always going to work.”

    Prois plays for Eckerd’s beach volleyball team.

    Her teammate, Ella Kloepper, who is also a new at Eckerd, took the class as well.

    The class instructor, Brian Anderson Needham, explained what the students get out of high-speed combatives.

    He said it is “basic instruction on how to avoid danger if they can avoid it.”

    It is also about how to fight out of an attack while also getting in a good workout.

    Needham is the co-owner of Weapon Brand.

    The retired Marine gave the free class to 22 Eckerd students new to campus life.

    The program is part of their orientation in more ways than one.

    “This maybe a new time for them to be in a community and an environment that it’s a little bit different,” Needham said.

    What is not different, said Needham, are the skills needed to feel safe. 

    Prois and Kloepper are feeling empowered.

    “I feel like I’m leaving with confidence,” said Kloepper. “If I was put in a situation, I have many ways that I can get out of it and a way to feel safe around campus and out.”

    Prois said it is “definitely worth it and I could definitely use it in the future.”

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    Roy De Jesus

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  • Lotz of Blessings packs snacks for food insecure students

    Lotz of Blessings packs snacks for food insecure students

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Lotz of Blessings nonprofit in Clearwater has a pretty simple mission, which is to organize events throughout the year to help the less fortunate.

    They provide snack bags for children who are food insecure.

    They provide blankets and sleeping assistance to the homeless.

    They provide school supplies for kids who went back to school recently.

    What is most impressive is that the organizers of this group are other children.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Lotz of Blessings nonprofit in Pinellas helps out with their volunteer programs

    •  Their Pack a Snack program fills bags of snacks for students who are food insecure

    • The nonprofit is partly ran and organized by student volunteers 


    Their most recent program is helping make tummies feel full and kids feel good ahead of the long Labor Day Holiday weekend.

    In that event, about 55 volunteers with 30 children among them lined up to pack snack bags while they got a lesson in kindness.

    Reese Gatchell is a third grader who is participating in the Lotz of Blessings pack a snack program.

    “I feel like it’s a kind way to open up to people and help people,” said Reese.

    Lotz of Blessings’ Advisory Board Member Rowan Cowley explained how the pack a snack program works.

    “Well, they’re volunteering and packing bags for kids who are food insecure,” Rowan said.

    Rowan is a seventh-grader in Pinellas County and is helping other students.

    He partly runs the show at the Lotz of Blessings.

    “We organize all of the projects that we do like this,” he said. “We do this monthly.”

    Most recently, they did a back-to-school bash.

    “Got donations of a bunch of school supplies and gave it to kids who need supplies for the school year,” said Carter Lotz.

    Carter’s parents came up with the idea for Lotz of Blessings.

    Carter, who is also in seventh grade, is also an advisory member as well and he has been doing this nonprofit work for about seven years.

    “At first I felt confused because I was young,” Carter said.

    But then, it made Lotz of sense.

    “I feel good cause I get to help,” he said.

    And little Reese is well on her way to possibly becoming a student advisor at Lotz of Blessings because of what they do for the community.

    “It can go around,” Reese said. “You can pass it to other people. You can say, ‘Hey do you want to help at this place,’ you know…it’s kind of contagious.”

    It is a good feeling everyone should experience.

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    Roy De Jesus

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