ReportWire

Tag: hillsborough county

  • Holiday Travel Rush is On

    TAMPA, FLA. — This year’s holiday travel season is shaping up to be a record-setter. 

    According to AAA, more than 122 million Americans are expected to travel this week and next week, with millions already beginning their journeys: especially those driving.

    What You Need To Know

    •  More than 122 million Americans will travel for the holidays over the next two weeks

    •  Florida will see 7.6-million residents travel 50 miles or more, with 6.7 million of them driving

    •  Gas prices are at 4-year-lows, averaging under $3 a gallon nationally

    • Travel for the holidays is seeing a 2% increase compared to last year


    In Florida alone, 7.5 million people are expected to travel for the holidays. Of those, 6.7 million will be on the road, making driving the most popular option this season.

    AAA says the increase in road travel comes as airfare prices rise and travelers try to avoid potential weather delays and airport crowds. 

    As a result, rest stops and highways across the state are already seeing steady traffic. Travelers at a rest stop along Interstate 75 north of Tampa in Pasco County on Monday were stopping during their holiday drives.

    One of them was Evan O’Shea, traveling with his family from Southwest Florida to Jacksonville and Northeast Florida to visit relatives. 

    So far, he says the trip has been manageable.

    “It kind of seems like traffic is more spread out,” O’Shea said. “If people started their holiday on the weekend, maybe they already hit the road. As of right now, it seems to be going pretty smooth, with a few congested spots.”

    Another factor encouraging drivers this year is the cost of fuel. 

    Gas prices are at four-year lows, averaging under $3 a gallon nationwide, easing the financial burden for families traveling long distances.

    AAA and transportation officials say drivers should prepare for heavier congestion during morning and mid- to late-afternoon hours, especially on local roads, through Wednesday.

    There is expected to be a brief traffic lull on Christmas Day, but roads will quickly fill again starting Friday and through the weekend, as travelers head back home.

    Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time, and stay alert as the busy holiday travel period continues.

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Jeff Butera

    Source link

  • Citrus County woman charged after 2 ex-husbands found dead

    BRADENTON, Fla. — A Citrus County woman was arrested Wednesday night after being accused of shooting and killing one ex-husband, and potentially another, Manatee County Sheriff’s officials said.

    Detectives arrested 51-year-old Susan Avalon at her home in Citrus County after the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) said she allegedly shot and killed a 54-year-old man who answered the door at his home on Chatum Light Run in Bradenton earlier that day.

    Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells said that deputies were able to speak with the man before he died and told them the shooter was possibly his ex-wife.

    Wells also said the man’s 15-year-old daughter was inside the house at the time of the shooting and told deputies she heard gunshots and saw a silver Honda Odyssey driving off.

    After detectives matched the description to Avalon’s vehicle, they went to her home and said they needed to talk about her about the death of her ex-husband. Officers said she allegedly replied, “Which one?”

    The investigation expanded into Hillsborough County after MCSO asked the Tampa Police Department to conduct a welfare check at a home in the 1200 block of East Frierson Avenue.

    Officers reported finding an adult male dead from multiple gunshot wounds inside the home.

    Tampa Police officials said they are working with MCSO in the ongoing investigation. Wells said the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office charged Avalon with second-degree homicide. The Tampa Police Department has not yet announced any charges connected with the case in its jurisdiction.

    Wells said his department planned to seek the death penalty in its case against Avalon.

    Watch the full press conference from Manatee Sheriff Rick Wells below: 

    [ad_2] Spectrum News Staff
    Source link

  • Holiday shipping deadlines quickly approaching

    TAMPA, Fla. — The holiday shipping rush is officially underway as USPS, UPS, and other carriers announce their final deadlines to ensure packages arrive on time for Christmas.

    Postal and shipping offices are already seeing longer lines as those cutoff dates approach, so waiting much longer could mean delayed gifts.

    USPS Holiday Shipping Deadlines

    If you’re using the United States Postal Service, the most affordable options have the earliest deadlines:

    • Today is the last day to ship First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage for Christmas delivery.
    • Thursday, December 18 is the deadline for USPS Priority Mail.
    • Saturday, December 20 is the final day to ship using Priority Mail Express to guarantee on-time arrival.
    •  

    UPS Offers a Few Extra Days

    If you need more time, UPS may be the better option, as their deadlines extend a few days later than USPS.

    At a UPS location in St. Petersburg, manager Tony Morcos says stores are busy, with trucks picking up packages nightly after 6 p.m. UPS locations are also operating with extended holiday hours.

    “The UPS Store is very convenient. We have 5,400 locations, and one of the biggest aspects of our stores is extended hours during the holidays. For example, we’re open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, and we’re open Saturday and Sunday,” Morcos said.

    UPS Shipping Deadlines

    • December 19: Deadline for 3-Day Select
    • December 22: Deadline for 2nd Day Air
    • December 23: Final deadline for Next Day Air deliveries

    Skip the Lines by Shipping Online

    More customers are choosing to set up shipping online, which can help avoid long lines at local post offices and shipping centers.

    For a full breakdown of holiday shipping options and deadlines, visit United States Postal Service or UPS Holiday Schedule.

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

  • CAIR responds after DeSantis declares it ‘foreign terrorist organization’

    TAMPA, Fla. — (DEC. 16 UPDATE): The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), along with a law firm and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced the filing of a federal lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis. 

    The suit comes days after the governor declared CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization. 

    According to CAIR, the lawsuit challenges what the organization calls DeSantis’ “blatantly unconstitutional” executive order targeting the Council on American-Islamic Relations, America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and its Florida chapter, CAIR-Florida.

    CAIR-Florida plans to host a press conference in Tampa to address Tuesday afternoon to address the lawsuit.


    PREVIOUS STORY: The Florida chapter and the national headquarters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) announced Tuesday they plan to file a lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis.

    It comes one day after the governor declared CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization.

    The Florida chapter of CAIR says it will fight it out in court. 

    CAIR Florida says it was an attack on their First Amendment rights, that the accusations are baseless and that they look forward to proving that in court. 

    Hiba Rahim, CAIR Florida’s interim director, called the governor’s remarks an attack on the Constitution.


    “If you are truly American, America first, then you have to prioritize fighting against these types of attacks and standing with minority groups,” Rahim said. “Whether they are Muslim community or any other minority group. Because today the Muslims, tomorrow, someone else.”

    She added: “To our Governor, your designation has no basis in law or fact. You do not have the constitutional authority to unilaterally declare any American or an American institution a foreign terrorist group. Nor is there any basis to level this smear against our organization.”

    DeSantis posted an executive order (Florida Executive Order 25-244) to social media Monday night, declaring both CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. The order said CAIR is an unofficial U.S. cover representing the Islamic community to conceal ties to Islamic extremist groups like Hamas.

    At a press conference on Tuesday in Miami, DeSantis said he welcomes the lawsuit.

    “I welcome the lawsuit because what will happen is that will give the state of Florida discovery rights, (to) be able to subpoena the bank records,” he said. “It would give us even more reason, I believe, and so this is something I know our attorney general is ready, willing and able to be fighting on this.”

    Rahim says she worries there will be threats, and that now is the time for all faiths to come together. She said the organization has nothing to hide.

    “We will respond to whatever comes our way — piece by piece, day by day,” she said. “And in the meantime, we will continue to uphold our vision and mission, which is to protect Americans and to enhance people’s understanding of Islam and Muslims and to defend civil rights.” 

    DeSantis says members of the legislature are crafting legislation to stop Sharia Law and that he hopes to codify these protections for Floridians against CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood in future legislation.

    “I think you’re going to see the legislature probably mirror what Texas has done, and ultimately that’ s going be in the best interest of the people,” DeSantis said.

    DeSantis added that CAIR has the right to sue Florida, but that the state’s attorney general has the right to get the financial information Florida needs to uphold the laws here.

     

    Jeff Van Sant, Spectrum News Staff, Keith Landry

    Source link

  • Arrest log

    The following arrests were made recently by local police departments. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Massachusetts’ privacy law prevents police from releasing information involving domestic and sexual violence arrests with the goal to protect the alleged victims.

    BILLERICA

    • Michael Parker, 50, 67 Salem Road, Billerica; assault with dangerous weapon, intoxicated licensee carrying firearm.

    • Katherine Marie Main, 41, unknown address; fugitive from justice on court warrant.

    LOWELL

    • Brian Cooper, 29, 17 Yarmouth Drive, Nashua, N.H.; warrant (unlicensed operation of motor vehicle), operating motor vehicle without license.

    • Luis Oliveras, 65, 144 High St., Apt. 2, Lowell; operation under influence of alcohol.

    • Emily Rogers, 33, homeless; warrant (shoplifting), trespassing.

    • Kosall Deth, 44, 73 Fort Hill Ave., Apt. 2, Lowell; warrant (failure to stop/yield).

    • Kenneth Eng, 21, 27 Hastings St., Lowell; warrant (operation of motor vehicle with suspended license), failing to submit motor vehicle for inspection.

    • Kevin Sok, 32, 21 Main St., Dunstable; operating motor vehicle after license suspension, failing to submit motor vehicle for inspection.

    • Nicholas Powell, 36, 301 Old Marshall Road, Dracut; warrant (failure to appear for unlicensed operation of motor vehicle).

    • Daniel Ramos-Vallejo, 23, 35 Temple St., Apt. 19, Lowell; operating motor vehicle after license suspension, failing to submit motor vehicle for inspection.

    • Thomas McGrath, 34, homeless; shoplifting, trespassing after notice.

    • Mason Cruz, 30, 619 Gorham St., Apt. 2, Lowell; assault and battery on police officer, resisting arrest.

    • Mary Foley, 45, 93 Berkeley St., Billerica; breaking and entering motor vehicle, disturbing peace.

    • Teddy Buckley, 36, homeless; trespassing.

    • Betsy Bettencourt, 60, homeless; two counts of trespassing.

    • Peter Gichuhi, 44, homeless; public drinking.

    • Kristen Butler, 25, 205 Farrwood Drive, Haverhill; warrants (failure to appear for two counts of trespassing, and shoplifting by asportation), trespassing.

    • Bryant Dottin, 28, 18 Morton St., Lowell; warrants (failure to appear for unregistered motor vehicle, and suspended license).

    • Divine Morse, 25, 271 E. Eighth St., No. 410, Boston; warrant (uninsured motor vehicle).

    • J’Lohn Moro, 33, 590 Market St., Apt. 325, Lowell; shoplifting.

    • Khaisone Sinlong, 30, 189 Walker St., No. 5, Lowell; operating motor vehicle without license, failure to stop/stop sign, warrant (malicious damage to motor vehicle).

    • Michael Picardi, 38, homeless; warrant (possession of Class E drug).

    • Joshua Rivera, 37, 57 Mount Vernon St., Lowell; warrant (distribution of Class A drug), trafficking in 18 grams or more of cocaine.

    • Jeffrey Breitwieser, 38, homeless; assault on emergency medical technician or health care provider, trespassing.

    NASHUA, N.H.

    • Nathaniel Ciardelli, 32, no fixed address; criminal trespassing, theft by unauthorized taking ($0-$1,000).

    • Dagoberto Vasquez Bamaca, 20, 46 Ledge St., Nashua; simple assault.

    • Jack Pearson Smith, 20, 56 Furber Lane, Wolfeboro, N.H.; driving under influence.

    • Trisha Morin, 40, no fixed address; nonappearance in court.

    • Jorge Lewis Curet, 40, 92 Ledge St., Apt. 2, Nashua; stalking.

    • Marion Smith, 49, no fixed address; theft by unauthorized taking ($0-$1,000), nonappearance in court.

    • Cara Kulingoski, 48, no fixed address; warrant.

    • Darryl Hudson, 43, 7 Van Buren St., Nashua; out of town warrants.

    • Cameron Joseph Sousa, 21, 24 Gillis St., Nashua; nonappearances in court, suspension of vehicle registration, driving motor vehicle after license revocation/suspension, unregistered motor vehicle, operation of motor vehicle without valid license.

    Staff Report

    Source link

  • Bowl games announced for Orlando and Tampa

    A few teams will be making their way to Florida to cap off their seasons.

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • ZooTampa’s Christmas in the Wild illuminates the season

    TAMPA, Fla. — More than one million twinkling lights set the stage for ZooTampa’s Christmas in the Wild, on select dates in December.

    What You Need To Know

    • ZooTampa’s Christmas in the Wild includes over a million lights

    • Enjoy an “hymn-prov” show, stilt angel dancing, and cookies with Mrs. Clause

    • Proceeds support ZooTampa’s wildlife protection mission

    • Admission is $29.95, starting after 4 p.m. on select December dates


    Among the activities for the evening event, there is an “hymn-prov” show, with funny takes on favorite Christmas carols especially created for children and families.

    There is dancing with stilt angels, cookies with Mrs. Clause and visiting with Santa.

    Proceeds from every purchase go towards ZooTampa and their mission to protect and preserve wildlife.

    Admission to Christmas in the Wild is $29.95 and takes place after 4 p.m. on select dates.

    Virginia Johnson

    Source link

  • Toy industry impacted by tariffs this holiday season

    TAMPA, Fla. — It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many, and the start of a busy shopping season. But for some families, they’ll be thinking twice about their shopping decisions and keeping an eye on the price tag.

    What You Need To Know

    • Brick City Bricks in Plant City says fluctuating tariffs having an impact on their industry
    • The local Lego store is looking to get more people through its doors during a busy shopping season


    All aboard the Lego train, this time of the year transports Gregg Williams to his childhood.

    “It’s the love of Lego, the love of Christmas and bonding time with the family,” he says.

    He’s the owner of Brick City Bricks in Plant City. In the eight years his store has been in business, this time of year is one of the busiest.

    “From now until Christmas, I’d say 40 to 50% of our sales could come from here,” he says.

    But he has been concerned this year, because of the fluctuating tariff prices on imported goods such as Lego.

    “Most of our Legos come from Mexico, so overseas tariffs and all other tariffs going into effect, they’ve kind of been bouncing back and forth,” he said.

    Williams says people have expressed their concerns regarding Lego prices already. The Toy Association released the latest information on the tariff impact last month.

    The association stated it has been closely monitoring major global trade and tariff developments that may affect toy industry operations and costs.

    While the tariffs are having a pricing impact on Lego, it’s also keeping shoppers like Lee Longoria on the hunt for the best prices.

    “I’m still shopping around, still comparing prices and see if the other stores haggle with prices, that’s one way people can save money, talking to the managers the store owner,” he says.

    Economists report holiday spending to be lower this year than in previous years, in part due to sales growth and the tariffs.

    But Williams is staying positive, looking to get more people though the doors.

    “If you get joy out of it, and you know people spend a little bit on their hobby, that’s what it’s all about,” he says.

    The Trump administration says it put these tariffs in place to reduce the trade deficit. Meanwhile, Brick City Bricks will also be having sales in-store this weekend. And Plant City Mainstreet will also be offering free wrapping if you shop local, free of charge.

    That is happening Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Hundreds line up to get in Tampa’s Bass Pro Shops on Black Friday

    TAMPA, Fla. —  Today is Black Friday, and it could be slower than last year.

    The National Retail Federation forecasts that nearly 187 million people, will shop online or in stores between Thanksgiving and Monday.

    That’s fewer than the near-record number it reported in 2024.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Hundreds of people were lined up outside of Bass Pro Shops to get a mystery gift card

    •  People lined up as early as 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving

    •  Going to Bass Pro Shops on Black Friday has been a tradition for many families


    However, right here in Tampa Bay people have been lining up outside some stores to get Black Friday deals. 

    Managers at the Bass Pro Shops in Tampa said it’s one of the biggest turnouts the store has had on Black Friday in the last several years.

    Hundreds of people piled into the store when it opened at 5 a.m..

    The line to get in was wrapped around the building to the backside. Managers have estimated there were between 200 and 400 people.

    Almost everyone in line got here early this morning in hopes of getting a $500 gift card. The store gave out mystery gift cards to the first 250 people. The cards were valued between $10 and $500.

    Everyone in line had high hopes that they would be the lucky grand prize winner.

    People lined up as early as 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving to make sure they secured their card.

    “We are out here trying to get a $10 gift card at Bass Pro … we thought he would be one of the first people, it’s wrapped around the building, so we figured it’d be popular,” said Haily Schultz, Black Friday Shopper.

    Shoppers were bundled up in blankets and hoodies to try to stay warm.

    When people finally got into the store, there were shouts of excitement. Shoppers opened their gift card envelopes to see how much they got.

    For many shoppers, coming to Bass Pro Shops on Black Friday is a long running tradition and for others this was the start of a new one.

     

    Tyler O’Neill

    Source link

  • Vet meets family of Bay Pines VA first Black female employee

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A veteran working at the Bay Pines VA recently discovered a book in the archives that details the life of the first African American woman to work there in the 1940s.  

    It’s a piece of history that he was hoping to share with the woman’s family if he ever found them.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 first reported on the late Deotha Parsons story earlier this month. Parson’s rich history of being the first female African American employee to work at Bay Pines VA in the 1940s is all laid out in a book.

    The book is housed in the archives at the Bay Pines VA. That’s where hospital coordinator for the Disabled American Veterans, John Makas, first discovered it six months ago.

    He said he knew then, he had to find and connect Parsons’ family with the book.

    After the story aired and appeared online, the community connected Spectrum Bay News 9 with Monica Hunt and her brother Erik Butler, Parsons’ grandchildren who live in Washington D.C.

    Makas joined the video call to formally meet them and get their reaction to the story.

    “I thought it was amazing,” Butler said.

    Hunt says she was surprised.

    “Yeah, it was great. I had chills. I was like, ‘Oh wow’ and all of those pictures. But to see all of the rest of the stuff in the book, it was nice to see,” she said.

    Deotha Parsons, the history maker, was just a grandmother to them. She had already retired from VA by the time they were old enough to understand her accomplishments.

    “She wasn’t too much affiliated by the time I got to know her,” Butler said.

    After working for Bay Pines VA, for more than 30 years and retiring in the 1970s the book was created for her retirement. It’s something Makas wants the family to have a piece of.

    “I didn’t want that photo album to get lost. So, my DAV here in the Florida Area, we’re going to get together and we’re going to have that book digitally done for you and I want to give that to your family so that you guys have it,” he said. “That’s something you should have to teach to your grandchildren.”

    Once completed, Makas said he will coordinate with the family to hand them over the new digitized copy of the book.  

    Saundra Weathers

    Source link

  • Lowell man arrested after pursuit, accused of ramming police cruiser with truck

    MANCHESTER, N.H. —  A Lowell man is facing a pile of charges after an early-morning pursuit that topped 100 mph ended with him ramming a State Police cruiser with his pickup truck when cornered in Manchester.

    Alejandro Vargas, 27, was captured by police after the alleged vehicle pursuit turned into a foot pursuit following the crash. According to the New Hampshire State Police, it was later determined that Vargas had an outstanding U.S. Marshals warrant.

    The incident began at about 1:20 a.m. Tuesday, when the State Police said they received reports that Epping police officers had briefly pursued a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado on Route 101 westbound. Shortly afterward, members of the Candia Police spotted the pickup truck, which was allegedly clocked traveling at 105 mph.

    Police said Trooper Brian Knell observed the truck as it entered Interstate 93 South in Manchester. He caught up with the vehicle at Exit 1 on Interstate 293 North and attempted a traffic stop, which the driver — later identified as Vargas — allegedly ignored.

    The pursuit that ensued continued onto Exit 4 of I-293, where the truck turned onto Arnold Street, which is a dead end. Vargas is alleged to have turned the vehicle around and struck a State Police cruiser driven by Trooper Brian Taylor.

    Police said the truck then crashed into two additional parked vehicles before Vargas and a passenger jumped out of the truck and fled on foot in opposite directions.

    Manchester police officers arrived with a drone and spotted Vargas running south near Hill Street, less than a half-mile from the crash scene. Officers quickly tracked him down and took him into custody.

    The passenger, meanwhile, was not located.

    Vargas is charged with felony reckless conduct with a deadly weapon, along with misdemeanor counts of disobeying an officer, resisting arrest, simple assault, and conduct after an accident, in addition to several violations.

    Details of Vargas’ U.S. Marshals warrant were not immediately available, nor was the outcome of his arraignment, which was scheduled to take place in Manchester District Court on Wednesday.

    Follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis, or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.

    Aaron Curtis

    Source link

  • Tampa nonprofit provides jobs for adults with disabilities

    TAMPA, Fla. — This Thanksgiving, dozens of adults with disabilities are thankful for newfound purpose after a Tampa nonprofit just opened its fifth coffee shop uniting people.

    What You Need To Know

    • Coffee Uniting People (CUP) provides jobs for adults with disabilities across Tampa

    • CUP says 80% of adults with disabilities are unemployed, but not unemployable. That’s why they’ve opened five coffee shops around the area

    • Tampa General’s Outpatient Center in Brandon serves as the newest CUP location


    It all starts with freshly ground beans, but there’s something special about every cup of coffee from Tampa-based Coffee Uniting People (CUP).

    “It’s going to be strong coffee. It’ll wake you up,” said Justin Scarle, who has worked for CUP for five months.

    The group, launched by a local attorney and his wife, opened its newest location at Tampa General’s Outpatient Center in Brandon last week.

    CUP employs adults with disabilities and gives them so much more than just a paycheck.

    “Statistics show that about 80% of the folks are unemployed, but not unemployable. We started CUP to address that issue here in Tampa and here we are five coffee shops later,” said founder Greg Jones.

    Alli Schulte, 22, just started working for CUP. She and Scarle are two of more than 60 currently employed by the 501 (c)(3).

    At $14 an hour, Jones says they have a waitlist in the triple digits. So far, Tampa General is loving its new blend of caffeine and care.

    “Honestly, it’s been really, really rewarding. A lot of their team members have faced a lot of adversity throughout their life. But the amazing thing is their outlook on life. They have this positive outlook, they’re always smiling, they’re always in a good mood, and that kind of outlook is really infectious,” said Marion Dawkins, senior vice president of ambulatory operations.

    A bug they don’t mind spreading all across the hospital.

    “If you wake up in the morning and you’re feeling really tired, there’s a cup that can fulfill your needs,” Scarle said.  

    CUP has four other locations across Tampa, with another slated to open in the first quarter of 2026. 

    Andy Cole

    Source link

  • Metropolitan Ministries provides Thanksgiving meals to thousands of families

    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.

    Fallon Silcox

    Source link

  • UF/IFAS Extension reports record breaking strawberry acreage

    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — Did you know that one strawberry plant can produce up to 50 berries during a single season? Now, multiply that number by thousands of strawberry rows.

    That’s a lot of berries. And this year, there may be more than ever.

    What You Need To Know

    • The University of Florida’s IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Office reports more than 15,000 acres of strawberries planted
    • It’s due to demand and high usage of strawberry acreage
    • One local farm in Plant City says they are looking at a promising strawberry season this year


    We’re only at the start of the strawberry season, but one farm in Plant City says it’s a promising one, that’ll be the sweetest one yet.

    “This one already has a lot of flowers. It hasn’t produced the strawberry yet, but we can see they’ll soon be here, “says Fidel Sanchez, owner of Sanchez Farms.

    The saying goes, “Good things come to those who wait,” and that’s been the case for Sanchez. The Plant City farm owner has about 50 acres dedicated to strawberries.

    He said there are four different varieties of berries, which all have different growing schedules. And they need a lot of tending to.

    “It’s really important for us to have a good climate to help the strawberries and for a good production,” Sanchez said.

    This year, he said the growing season has a better outlook than last year.

    “We are ahead nearly a month compared to last year, because last year, the hurricanes impacted us and set us back,” he said.

    That optimism is shared by the University of Florida’s IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Office. Agribusiness Development Manager Simon Bollin said over 15,000 acres of strawberries were planted this season – that’s a record-breaking total for this area.

    “There are two main reasons — one is demand, you’re not going to raise a crop if you don’t have demand for it, and two — the high usage of the strawberry acreage,” said Bollin.

    The extension office said a season that started dry with no hurricanes created a good environment for the berries. They also attribute the high number of acreages to expansion into Manatee and Polk County.

    Sanchez said he wants to continue to share his love for farming through his crops.

    “This season, I think, it’s going great.” he said. “If you look at the plant, everything looks beautiful.”

    With more plants in the ground and promising conditions, this season could be the Bay Area’s best ever.

    The strawberry season goes until March or April, so you’ll start to see more berries in the local stores as we get further into the season.

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Amtrak expects record Thanksgiving ridership as travelers seek alternatives

    TAMPA, Fla. — Amtrak is projecting record-breaking ridership and revenue for the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period, and Tampa Union Station is playing a major role in that surge.

    Last year, more than 1.2 million passengers traveled by rail over Thanksgiving. Tampa Union Station saw more than 150,000 departures, making it one of Florida’s busiest Amtrak stations.

    With early bookings showing double-digit growth, Amtrak expects this year to surpass those numbers.

    What You Need To Know

    • Amtrak is projecting record-breaking ridership and revenue for the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period, and Tampa Union Station is playing a major role in that surge

    • Last year, more than 1.2 million passengers traveled by rail over Thanksgiving

    • With early bookings showing double-digit growth, Amtrak expects this year to surpass those numbers


    Why travelers are choosing the rails

    Many riders boarding trains in Tampa this week said they were looking for a change — and relief from the holiday travel stress that comes with flying or long drives.

    Price was a major factor for rider Bruce Hilsheimer.

    “The Greyhound stops more places and costs twice as much — it’s a no-brainer for me,” he said.

    For others, safety and comfort drove the decision.

    Linda Colon said she’s avoiding the airport this year.

    “There are so many concerns people are dealing with right now, and they really don’t feel like getting on an airplane,” she said.

    Some passengers chose the train for more productive travel time.

    Dana Diaz said train travel allows her to keep working throughout her trip.

    “I have to work, and sitting on the train allows me to get my work done,” she said.

    And for some, rail travel brings back a sense of nostalgia and calm.

    “I saw (trains) a lot in the movies… it’s very romantic,” said rider Susan Roscoe.

    Passengers traveling through Tampa Union Station this week were headed everywhere from Chicago to shorter regional trips to Lakeland, West Palm Beach and Miami.


    More riders seeking alternatives amid travel uncertainty

    Bob O’Malley, senior vice president at the Orlando Economic Partnership, says congestion at airports — and concerns during the recent government shutdown — pushed more people toward rail.

    “Some people will always fly or drive, but people are looking for other ways,” O’Malley said.

    He added that expanding options like SunRail and Brightline could open more rail alternatives across the state.

    Book early, Amtrak warns

    With demand climbing quickly, Amtrak is encouraging riders to book tickets early to secure their travel times.

    Colon said the ease of boarding is a major plus.

    “I took an Uber here — I didn’t have to arrive two hours before departure,” she said.

    And for many travelers, the slower pace of train travel is part of the appeal.

    “It’s convenient. It’s slower than flying, but sometimes that’s relaxing,” Roscoe said.

    Fadia Patterson

    Source link

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

    • CHECK YOUR FLIGHTS: Tampa International Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Angie Angers

    Source link

  • Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation helps families fill their shopping carts

    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.

    Saundra Weathers

    Source link

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Melissa Eichman

    Source link

  • Tampa International Airport expecting big Thanksgiving crowds

    TAMPA, Fla. — Thanksgiving is growing closer, and Tampa International Airport is expecting more than 900,000 travelers from Nov. 20 through Dec. 1.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tampa International Airport estimates more than 900,000 passengers over a 12-day period 

    • Nov. 30 is the day they’re expecting to be the busiest

    • TPA officials say they’re expecting the number of passengers coming through the airport to be close to the same as last year


    “We’re expecting approximately 80,000 passengers a day,” Vice President of Operations Benjamin Robins said.

    Alan Moss is one of the passengers.

    He and his family flew into Tampa on Nov. 13, a day after the government shutdown ended.

    They flew in for a cruise and wanted to make sure they didn’t run into any issues.

    “It’s actually been really good,” he said. “We were a little worried about the government shutdown, so we actually booked our flight a day early. Our biggest concern was just missing that connection because our first flight may have been delayed.”

    That kind of concern is still felt among those working.

    Kirk Skinner, the Federal Security Director for Greater Tampa Bay, said the shutdown has created stress for everyone despite it being over for nearly two weeks.

    “We work and we get compensated,” he said. “Well, that fell through for six weeks. I don’t think I can say that stress is gone. I mean, it was almost a traumatic experience. For some folks, it was.”

    TPA said they’re expecting the number of passengers coming through the airport to be close to the same as last year.

    Matt Lackritz

    Source link