ReportWire

Tag: Human Interest

  • Localtopia at 12: Indie businesses will celebrate after calamitous year

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — If you want to invest in your community, find cool artists and creators or just dance in the street at a DJ booth, Localtopia might be for you.

    What You Need To Know

    • Localtopia will be held Saturday, Feb. 22

    • The location is Williams Park, 350 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg

    • The hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.


    Now in its 12th year, the event in Williams Park attracts more than 300 independent businesses and community organizations from St. Petersburg.

    Because of the past year’s catastrophic weather, coupled with rising prices, founder Olga Bof is calling this the most important Localtopia ever.

    “Because a lot of people are making decisions about ‘Are we actually going to continue as a local business owner,’” said Bof, also the founder of Keep St. Pete Local.

    At Reclaim Threads in St. Pete, clothes get a new life.

    “We are really focused on the environmental impact of the fashion industry and saving the clothes that already exist,” said Emma Charles.

    Charles started the vintage/upcycled clothing store with her partner, Marissa Baker.

    “We just really thing about the durability of pieces when we are making something,” said Baker.

    The company opened a brick-and-mortar shop in the Warehouse Arts District in 2024, and it was events like Localtopia that helped them afford a space for customers to shop.

    “Not to get too specific, but it’s our highest single sales day every year,” said Charles. “We are really lucky to have moved into this space before the hurricane, because the stuff was in my house before, and my house did flood,” said Charles.

    “We don’t buy anything new as far as fashion goes — if we don’t have to and a huge part of our life is spreading that to other people,” said Baker.

    Localtopia will take place Saturday, Feb. 22.

    [ad_2]

    Virginia Johnson

    Source link

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

    [ad_1]

    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:

     

     

    [ad_2]

    DeJanae Phillips, Anna Wronka

    Source link

  • Proposed RV resort near Withlacoochee River facing backlash from community

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS SPRINGS, Fla. — A proposed RV resort is making waves across the Nature Coast community.

    Named the Paradise Meadows RV Resort, it would sit along a portion of the Withlacoochee River, but not everyone is onboard with the proposal.

    What You Need To Know

    • Plans are being proposed for an 18-acre RV resort near the Withlacoochee River called Paradise Meadows RV Resort

    • The owners and developers of the land say they plan to keep the area as natural as possible, with an emphasis on protecting the Withlacoochee and keeping many of the surrounding trees
    • Pushback from local residents, however, has been forming
    • If approved, developers say the resort would take about two years to complete


    Those behind the resort say they plan to preserve the area with their development.

    “So there’ll be sites on each side,” said Micheal Smith, owner and CEO of Paradise Meadows RV Resort. “All these trees are staying.”

    Driving through a 50-acre wooded property, Smith has a vision for an RV resort with a unique twist.

    “Just trying to be a good neighbor, trying to listen to everybody’s concerns and we understand their concerns, but it’s not your typical RV park,” he said. “This is a park that’s never been done before in a forest.”

    Smith and his wife are the owners of the property, and have proposed a plan to develop 18 acres of it into the Paradise Meadows RV Resort, which would sit just a stone’s throw from the Withlacoochee River.

    “This’ll be a beautiful property, all the trees will stay, and, like I’ve said over and over again, it’s going to be a Mother Nature masterpiece when we’re done with it,” said Smith.

    There has been some pushback from local residents, however — including an online group that has formed with members opposed to any more development in the area.

    “Just seeing how it’s developed from my childhood is a little concerning, because we’re named the Nature Coast for a reason,” said Courtney Tucker, who is a member of “Save Our Withlacoochee River From RV Rezoning.”

    One of the main concerns the group has is the area losing its natural beauty and the habitat it possesses.

    “A lot of people are concerned, because what exactly is going to happen with that environmental impact?” said Tucker. “We just want to make sure that whatever does happen, it’s going to be minimal.”

    But Smith said the plan is to keep the area as natural as possible, with an emphasis on protecting the Withlacoochee River.

    “The Withlacoochee River will be super safe, and we’re making sure of that,” he said. “We love the river just as much as anybody. With us having this as a legacy, of course, we want that to be super safe.”

    The RV resort still needs approval from the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners. If approved, Smith said the resort would take about two years to complete.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • New changes to Manatee County school speed zone cameras

    [ad_1]

    BRADENTON, Fla. — Voting to enforce school zone speed limits at the beginning and end of every school day, instead of all day long, Manatee County commissioners have agreed to reduce the length of the time that drivers can be ticketed for speeding in a school zone.

    What You Need To Know

    • The speed detection cameras will only be on at the beginning and very end of the school day this new policy went into effect Wednesday, February 5
    • Drivers will still be fined $100 if they go 10 miles over  the limit

    • Manatee commissioners also approved a universal 20 mph school zone speed limit that has not gone into effect until a date is given by the county

    • According to county officials, residents will still have to pay existing speeding tickets 

    “Right now, I’m looking at $300 dollars,” Liz Gabrick said, who received three citations in 24 hours last month.

    She said it was in the middle of the day, and the school zone lights were not flashing.

    “They said that the school zone speed limit is 30, and one I was going 40, another 44, and one at 46,” she said.

    And it’s left a negative impact.

    “Is it going to hurt my pocketbook? You bet it is. I’ve spent sleepless nights, a lot of time, and went to the commissioners’ meeting,” she said. “And if I try to fight this in court, it’s thousands of dollars and time off work. It’s a hardship.”

    It’s a hardship that other residents can speak to as well, which is why commissioners changed the school zone policy after receiving several complaints from residents about receiving tickets.

    Manatee County Commissioner Bob McCann said the overall idea is to protect school children, not punish speeders.

    “We got rid of the red light cameras for that purpose,” he said. “We aren’t there to monitor or change behavior. What we are there for is to protect the child’s safety during a school zone, period.”

    The Manatee County Board of Commissioners voted to enforce school zone violations for a one-hour period — 30 minutes before the first bell, and 30 minutes after the last bell. County officials also voted to enforce a universal 20 mph school zone speed limit, rather than varying speeds at different schools. 

    They were all moves that Gabrick said she agreed with.

    “I’m the first one to believe in child safety, but be transparent with us,” she said.

    Driving on Linger Lodge Road East, where Gabrick was ticketed while driving past Tara Elementary School, she said one big issue is the lack of a speed limit sign when driving from Tara Preserve Lane to Linger Lodge Road East.

    “What I don’t like about driving through there is if there was such a concern about speeding through the school zone, there should have been a speed limit sign there,” she said.

    Many residents have asked if they still have to pay for the tickets they received before the new rule change on the Feb. 4. The simple answer from the county is: Yes, drivers still have to pay for existing tickets.

    As for the universal 20 mph school zone speed limit, the county did approve it, but there is no set date when that will go into effect.

    Manatee County officials addressed the issue in a statement:

    “At this time, a specific date has not been determined; however, staff will begin developing a plan for the fabrication and installation of the new signage. Additional details will be shared with the community as they become available.

    Individuals who received a School Speed Zone Camera Notice of Violation (NOV) prior to the policy change approved by the Manatee Board of County Commissioners on February 4 are still required to pay the assigned penalty. For any questions regarding an NOV, please contact the Public Safety Department at code.enforcement@mymanatee.org or call Red Speed customer service at 888-213-0715.”

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • Tampa Bay celebrates Black History Month 2025

    [ad_1]

    BY

    DeJanae Phillips

    Tampa


    PUBLISHED 5:00 PM ET Feb. 05, 2025
    PUBLISHED 5:00 PM EST Feb. 05, 2025

    [ad_2]

    DeJanae Phillips

    Source link

  • Crystal River business reacts as US-19 widening project nears completion

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A popular roadway in Citrus County is getting a major facelift.

    What You Need To Know

    • The widening of US-19 near Crystal River is entering its final stages, going from two travel lanes to three

    • The project stretches a little more than 4.5-miles, which should help, as city officials say, during severe weather events
    • It’s a major project that will have big implications for Crystal River and local businesses
    • Two more projects will begin after this one finishes, with the state repaving a 1.2-mile stretch from south of northeast First Terrace to south of Snug Harbor Road


    The widening of US-19 is entering its final stages, going from two travel lanes to three. It’s a major project that will have big implications for Crystal River and local businesses.

    Just a stone’s throw from the roadway, Ryan Delarco arranges a few bicycles outside his shop Sparky’s Green Rides.

    “It’s changed a lot,” says Delarco.

    Delarco has had the shop since 2013. He’s experienced it all, from hurricanes and tornadoes to the most recent widening of US-19.

    “Hopefully, when everything’s done, it causes economic growth and better traffic flow through here.”

    The project, Delarco said, has its pros and cons. With the road running right outside his shop, construction drew away potential customers. But with road work now dwindling down, better access to trails is just around the corner.

    “We’re going to be connecting the trails for the bicycles, the pedestrians and walkways and miscellaneous things to get us around even more conveniently than we can now,” said Delarco.

    US-19’s widening project stretches a little more than 4.5-miles. Improving from two travel lanes to three. Which should help, as city manager Audra Curts says, during severe weather events.

    “Those types of things and those events where our traffic is higher than normal, it’ll make it flow so much better as folks are heading north if they ever have to evacuate during another disaster,” said Curts.

    And with businesses flanking either side of the major roadway, business owners, like Delarco, are excited to see what new business may come with the improved road.

    “When it’s completed and finished, I think the three lanes will help get the seniors be able to turn off the highway easier with the extra lane,” Delarco said. “I mean, three lanes is a big difference from two, for sure.”

    Two more US-19 projects will begin after this one finishes. The state will begin repaving the 1.2-mile stretch from south of northeast First Terrace to south of Snug Harbor Road. The project will also include pedestrian improvements with new crossing buttons.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Man helping Hispanics navigate AI

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — A recent report shows minority-led small businesses are using AI in high numbers, citing an increased ability to level the economic playing field.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sergio Rey founded Mall Digital 360 to help businesses navigate AI

    • Rey hosts session to educate Hispanics about AI and how it can help their business

    • Latino Donor Collaborative found that 14% of Latino-owned businesses currently use AI.


    Sergio Rey is demonstrating how AI can help business owners make conversations between customers easier. It’s part of his lesson on artificial intelligence for Latino entrepreneurs.

    “It’s important to always be educated because we are in a prosperous and abundant country,” Rey said.

    He hosts these sessions to help calm fears and help more people understand how to use it to their advantage. Tuesday was all about how to use AI to scale a business up.

    After migrating from Colombia four years ago, Rey knows how challenging it can be to understand and incorporate something new. Rey went from job to job before creating Mall Digital 360, a platform that helps make connections easier for businesses with the use of AI.

    “For example, if there is a language barrier with AI, we can bridge those barriers. We can compete in a market that isn’t necessarily our country of origin,” he said.

    The Latino Donor Collaborative found that 14% of Latino-owned businesses currently use AI technology compared to 7% of White-owned businesses. This comes at a time when Latinos are graduating in record numbers from engineering schools and other STEM careers.

    Rey says it’s an opportunity to embrace the synergy between AI and the Latino community.

    “It’s important to empower, because a Hispanic Latino person that’s empowered is a person that can contribute with even more tools in their box,” he said.

    He wants Latino businesses to understand this new generation of technology, adding that it’s another way to continue to fill their toolboxes with ways to grow and scale their businesses.

    The next session is being held in April.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Crystal River businessman continues to make Black history

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — The Black community in Citrus County is small, but mighty, and has a pretty extensive history.

    It’s a history many say isn’t widely known, but there’s one lifelong Crystal River resident and Black business owner who wants his hard work to change that.

    What You Need To Know

    • Oysters restaurant owner William Bunch got his start in Citrus County in the middle of the segregated south

    • Bunch said unlike a lot of cites, there was not a bustling Black business district in Crystal River

    • Bunch said he felt a sense of responsibility to bring order to his community and wants to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs


    If you ask William Bunch, there’s no real recipe for success. There is, however, a secret recipe for the perfect fried chicken.

    “Love. I put love into it,” he said.

    Bunch has been working for a long time.

    “I’ve been working at the age of 13 and I’m 70,” he said.

    He got his start in Citrus County in the middle of the segregated south.

    “I started at the Plantation Inn as a helper, and then I worked my way up to the chef and out the door,” Bunch said.

    He was out of the door there, and into the doors at his very own restaurant in Crystal River called Oysters.

    “I had this Englishman who wanted me to come and work for him, and I said, ‘I won’t come to work for you, but I will buy it from you.’ So, I came in and he made me an offer, and I borrowed a little money and put it down, and we went to work,” he said.

    He’s owned and operated Oysters for the past 29 years and they’re most popular item is — you guessed it — fried chicken?

    That’s right. He said the most popular item isn’t oysters.

    Bunch said his spirit of entrepreneurship dates back even further.

    “Taxi business, we (were) the first taxi people in this area. So, it did good when we first started,” he said.

    There are still remnants on the walls of Oysters of Bunch’s accomplishments.

    Storm damage over the last decade wiped out all of his older photos. He said those lost photos told the story of his landscaping company he started in high school.

    That landscaping company included driving his customers to the airport, which launched his taxi service. The photos were also a reminder of the days he couldn’t pick people up past sundown in sundown towns because he’s Black.

    Bunch said unlike a lot of cites, there was not a bustling Black business district in Crystal River. No Black Wall Street. So, he didn’t have any examples. But he did it anyway, despite adversities.

    “The bad experience I had back in ’93, my brother was killed by the police in ’93, and then when the verdict came out, they said the police had just cause to do what they had done, and the city really wanted to get up in arms, but I told them go home, the verdict is done, my brother is not coming back,” Bunch said.

    Bunch said he felt a sense of responsibility to bring order to his community then, and it’s something he continues to do now. He wants to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs by doing the work.

    “You have to be dedicated if you want to do a business. You have good days and you have bad days. So, I wanted to do it since I was a little kid and I had the opportunity and I’ve done it,” Bunch said.

    Bunch said his legacy will continue long after he’s gone. He passed down his landscaping business to his son and he hopes it will continue to honor the family name.

    [ad_2]

    Saundra Weathers

    Source link

  • Citrus County’s Marine Science Station re-opens after Hurricane Helene

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Citrus County students are finally able to return to a popular field trip location that was closed for months after being damaged during Hurricane Helene.

    What You Need To Know

    • Marine Science Station, a popular field trip location for Citrus County students, was closed for months after being damaged by Hurricane Helene

    • The station was closed from September until January, but the outdoor areas have since been reopened
    • Efforts to repair classrooms at the station are on-going, with the hopes of having indoor learning available again soon


    The Marine Science Station, a well-known learning center for students to observe and learn about marine life, was closed after being damaged during Hurricane Helene. Now, months after the storm, the station is welcoming back eager students.

    “It’s a way to bring alive the standards that the teachers are teaching these kids in the classroom,” said station supervisor Earnie Olsen.

    The station is a popular field trip destination for elementary students and even high schoolers enrolled in life science courses.  

    Storm damage kept the station closed from September until January.

    “There was marsh debris logs everywhere,” said Olsen. “When that water comes in from the Gulf, your marshes and your mangrove swamps help buffer some of that impact from the storm, but it still raises up vegetation that’s buoyant and that floats in here. When the water recedes, all of that material stays behind.”

    While indoor areas have suffered, the outdoor areas have rebounded.

    “Do you see all the land out here?” Olsen asked a group of fourth-grade students from Central Ridge Elementary. “And all the wetlands out here? We call those parts of our watershed. Because what does the water do when it hits the land? It sheds.”

    Olsen said the center supplies fantastic views of the surrounding ecosystem for students.

    “Until you get out in it and experience all the ways to experience it, that’s probably going to be the best way for a kid to learn,” Olsen said. “We’re very fortunate to be able to have that opportunity to serve our kids in that way.”

    Olsen said efforts to repair indoor classrooms at the station are ongoing, and he hoped the work would be completed soon.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Coquina Beach Cafe reopens after being closed for four months

    [ad_1]

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A popular place on Anna Maria Island is back in business after being closed since Hurricane Helene.

    Phil Francisco is the shift lead at Coquina Beach Café in Bradenton Beach.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Coquina Beach Café in Bradenton Beach reopened on Saturday 

    • The café had been closed since Hurricane Helene went through Anna Maria Island and was damaged by both hurricanes

    • The Coquina Beach Café is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week

    The Coquina Beach Café reopened last Saturday after being closed for nearly four months due to damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    “We did a soft opening a few days ago, and people have been finding out about it here and there. I have a feeling once we start rolling, it’s not going to stop,” he explained.

    Seeing customer after customer, it’s as if this place didn’t skip a beat.

    “It feels good, you know? After four months of cleaning, drywall tear-outs, removal, and sand shoveling, it feels good being back, serving friends, doing what we like to do here,” he said.

    And Francisco says the staff has picked up right where they left off, as well.

    “Well, we were lucky enough that not only do we have a second location, so we had a spot that we could go that has been open for a few months. But the family that puts this place on the Enoch’s are amazing people. They literally kept us busy, kept us fed, kept us mindful,” he explained.

    All of that hard work shows not just in the appearance, but also in the customer experience.

    “I didn’t realize how important these locations were to everybody’s mental state for 25, 30 years. When people didn’t see the café open, they weren’t doing well. The minute that the Gulf Drive location popped open, we had people stopping in from all over the place — people from all over the world, even. It’s like a spot that’s home,” he said.

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • Pinellas to crown Taco King

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA BAY, Fla. — They’re calling it The Battle of the Bites.

    Pinellas Park hosts Pinellas TacoFest 2025 on Saturday and Sunday.

    Last year, Tampa Bay devoured 25,000 tacos at the event. Organizers hope to exceed the number this weekend, as more than 20 chefs offer 50 different varieties of tacos.

    “It’s going to be amazing,” said Michele Northrup, the event organizer. “We have many, many, many more taco choices this year.”

    At the event, judges will crown “Best Taco in Tampa Bay 2025,” along with winners in categories for chicken, beef, pork and seafood.

    Proceeds will benefit Get Rescued, Inc., helping animals across Florida. The event is free to attend, but you pay for any tacos you eat.

    [ad_2]

    Jeff Butera

    Source link

  • Florida Polytechnic designs tech that activates bodycams for Lakeland PD

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Every Lakeland Police Officer is now wearing brand new technology that activates their body cameras, and that new technology was designed by a student and fabrication specialist at Florida Polytechnic University.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Lakeland PD contacted Florida Polytechnic to design brackets for their new holsters to hold a sensor that activates their body cameras

    •  A student, and a fabrication specialist at Florida Polytechnic University invented the carbon fiber bracket that fits into Lakeland PD’s holsters

    •  A patent is pending on the new technology


    When the Lakeland Police Department purchased new firearms for officers, they ran into a problem. The vendor hadn’t created a bracket for the holsters for it yet that would work with the body cameras, so they turned to Florida Poly for help.

    Mike Kalman, a fabrication specialist at the university, says within hours he and a student came up with a unique invention.

    It’s a carbon-fiber mount that holds a sensor that detects when a firearm’s metal is no longer present in the holster, meaning the officer has drawn the weapon.

    This movement would trigger the bodycam to begin recording if it hasn’t done so already.

    “When I draw, that right there activates the body-worn camera,” said Lieutenant Frank Fitzgerald with the Lakeland Police Department, demonstrating how the bracket works.

    A carbon-fiber mount holds a sensor that detects when a firearm’s metal is no longer present in the holster. (Spectrum News)

    Students used 3D printers to make enough for everyone on the force, and Kalman says creating something actually being used by law enforcement was a great experience for students.

    “A lot of what I do is in university, it’s for classroom use, or maybe it’s for learning use of some kind, but a lot of what I do is not actually out in the real world,” he said. “So this being out in the real world, and on top of that, it’s saving lives, and helping police, helping citizens, that’s really cool.”

    Back at Lakeland PD, Fitzgerald says thanks to Florida Poly, officers can focus on the task at hand in stressful situations, knowing all evidence is preserved.

    “When a Lakeland Police Officer, or any officer, responds with a body-worn camera on their person, it’s a tool for investigative means, it preserves best evidence, and it’s for transparency and accountability so the public can see what we do, and what we don’t do,” he said.

    The department is also using the brackets in their taser holsters. 

    Right now, the patent is pending for the brackets. 

    Florida Polytechnic officials say prior to producing the brackets for Lakeland PD, they tested them for about six months for safety and durability.

    It took almost three months to print all of them.

    [ad_2]

    Fallon Silcox

    Source link

  • Events honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day around Tampa Bay

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa

    UPDATED 6:12 AM ET Jan. 20, 2025
    PUBLISHED 3:11 PM ET Jan. 16, 2025
    PUBLISHED 3:11 PM EST Jan. 16, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Crystal River KOA Journey helping showcase women in Florida tourism

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A new business opened its doors in Crystal River late last summer.

    What You Need To Know

    • Crystal River KOA Journey opened its doors late last summer to campers, welcoming them to the Nature Coast

    • The business venture is staffed entirely of women, including maintenance personnel
    • Opening in late summer meant hurricane season was right around the corner
    • Recent cold weather has both been a blessing and a curse, seeing visitors in town to see manatees


    The Crystal River KOA offers visitors a place to connect with the outdoors. This business venture, staffed entirely by women, is helping visitors grow acquainted with the Nature Coast.

    On the outskirts of downtown Crystal River, you’ll find a slice of nature in the form of campgrounds and RV sites.

    They’re part of the new Crystal River KOA Journey, which opened its doors last July. They’re now in the midst of a busy winter season.

    “A lot of people come to Crystal River to swim with the manatees and even though the water is 72° year-round, that’s the main thing to come here for,” said Lenea Myers, campground manager at Crystal River KOA. “It’s a little cold to hop in the springs right now, so we’ve had a few cancellations, but it’s not horrible.”

    Cold weather is both a blessing and a curse, Myers says. Visitors typically don’t camp when the weather drops, but it’s also a familiar sign. The sign of the arrival of manatee season.

    “The city has been amazing to work with,” said Jennifer Grissom, co-owner of Crystal River KOA. “Discover Crystal River has been amazing to work with. We feel like the local community has been extremely supportive and even other campgrounds. I don’t think we could be any happier with where we chose to open.”

    Opening in late summer meant hurricane season was right around the corner. A challenge, Grissom says, they were prepared for. They offered their 68 RV sites to government workers and stranded locals in the aftermath of the storms.

    “We were able to offer monthly rates to some of FEMA and some of the locals who had lost some of their homes,” said Grissom. “It kind of helped everyone out, right? We were able to have business in a time when, maybe, we wouldn’t have otherwise and they were able to have a place to stay at a good rate.”

    Already it’s been a busy first year. But one, Grissom says, she could not imagine having anywhere else.

    “The city does a great job in maintaining the old Florida feel and that’s what we love about Crystal River,” said Grissom. “I don’t think even though it has developed, you don’t feel that sprawl. It still feels small and quaint.”

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Runners experience Disney magic in park’s annual Marathon Weekend

    [ad_1]

    ORLANDO, Fla. — Over 30,000 runners are experiencing the magic Sunday as Walt Disney World welcomed its annual marathon event.

    This marked the 32nd year of the event, and it’s one of the largest races in Central Florida.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Walt Disney World’s Marathon Weekend ran from Jan. 9 – 12

    • This marked the 32nd year of the event, and it’s one of the largest races in Central Florida

    • Clermont resident Marielle Despres was the championship winner for the women’s group

    • RELATED: Runners gear up for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend


    At 4:30 a.m., the first group of runners started a 26.2 marathon, and another group started 30 seconds afterwards.

    The marathon is part of Walt Disney World’s Marathon Weekend.

    Adam Ball, the vice president of ESPN Wide World of Sports and Disney Water Parks said this Marathon Weekend shows just how the local community and participants from around the world come together and support one another.

    “Anybody can do it, whether it’s your first time,” he said. “We have so few people here who’ve never won a race before. We have people that it’s their 20th marathon today. And so really, anyone can do it when you’re local, whether you’re from the other side of the country, or another country.”

    Marielle Despres was the championship winner for the women’s group. She’s from France, but now lives in Clermont.

    Despres trained for the marathon for two months with her husband and her three kids as her support system.

    “Each time I do trainings, they were with me and saying, ‘Let’s go, let’s go.’ It was amazing,” she said.

    The first race was a 5K held on Thursday, followed by the 10K on Friday morning.

    The event weekend continued with the half marathon on Saturday and the marathon on Sunday.

    And after an early and long morning, Despres only had two things on her mind: to rest and enjoy her day.

    [ad_2]

    Destiny Wiggins

    Source link

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

    [ad_1]

    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.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Pasco County ‘Aviator Bros’ take behind-the-scenes look at Tampa International

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Three Pasco County brothers had a rare opportunity to tour Tampa International Airport after winning first place in an annual FAA contest.

    What You Need To Know

    • Three Pasco County brothers, self-dubbed the ‘Aviator Bros,’ won first place in an annual FAA contest

    • Students taking part in the Airport Design Challenge were tasked with designing an airport in the video game Minecraft
    • Winning the contest this year was Krishiv, Shaan and Sahil Patel from Pasco County with their award-winning design of Tampa International Airport
    • Winning the challenge led the brothers and their family receiving a behind-the-scenes look at the real-life TPA, even meeting some of the planning and development team along the way


    The contest, called the Airport Design Challenge, challenges students across the country to design an airport in the video game Minecraft. Winning the contest this year was an award-winning design of Tampa International. The brothers did such an impressive job; they were invited for a behind-the-scenes tour through the halls of Tampa International Airport

    “We’ve been interested for as long as I can remember,” says Shaan Patel, one of the Aviator Bros.

    “When I was 2-years-old, my dad got me my first model plane, and I played with it every day,” says Shaan. “I still have it. Now, we’ve grown our collection to over 50 planes.”

    Aviation isn’t just a hobby for the trio, but a passion. It’s that passion that fueled the brothers to enter in the FAA’s Airport Design Challenge.

    Krishiv, Shaan and Sahil Patel were the winners of the airport design challenge

    “This challenge has really extended our view of the whole airport itself,” said Krishiv. “We learned, not only about the architecture, but about the lines, the lights that are everywhere like the runways, the taxiways. It was just amazing. It was an eye opener.”

    Their design was built on a digital landscape within the video game Minecraft. They modeled their design after Tampa International.

    “We used Google Maps and they have this little measuring tool,” Shaan said. “Obviously, there were circles, there were ovals and stuff and that’s when we got to whip out our geometry formulas to measure all of that and get all of that right. But Google Maps really helped us get the measurements for the terminals, parking lots, airsides and all that.”

    Winning the challenge led to the brothers and their family receiving a behind-the-scenes look at the real-life TPA. They even met some of the planning and development team along the way.

    “Which was quite unique, especially for students to come in and use a program that they’re familiar using, such as Minecraft,” said Sierra LePore, director of planning for the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority. “And now they’re able to take our airport and recreate it and really put their own spin on it.”

    They say it was a meaningful tour that may lead to a few promising careers in the future.

    “After seeing this tour today, I would love to come to Tampa International Airport and work in management or work in architecture and improve the future,” said Shaan.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • St. Pete woodturner, retired firefighter helps artists tell addiction stories

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. —Nicke Reale is looking over pieces for his upcoming group show “Faces of Addiction” at the Dunedin Fine Art Center.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new exhibit is open from January 10 through February 9
    • The artist hopes to spread hope for those suffering with addiction

    • The display is called the Faces of Addiction Exhibition at the Dunedin Fine Art Center


    The focus is on an honest interpretation of people’s experience with addiction.

    Reale gave about 50 artists a hand-carved head and carte blanche on its treatment.

    Reale is committed to honor his family. In his faces he sees a brother he lost and a niece he is trying to help.

    “The biggest problem with my niece is every time she would fall off the wagon, she would feel useless and worthless,” said Reale. “And at some point, she didn’t want to find her way back. And I want to put a stop to that.”

    He said that he hopes his work can bring others hope.

    The Fine Arts Center is open on January 17 at 6 p.m. for a discussion and reception with the artist.

    [ad_2]

    Virginia Johnson

    Source link

  • Spectrum Bay News 9 journalists present their favorite local stories of 2024

    [ad_1]

    We asked some of our journalists to think back and send us some of their stories that were either their favorite, most memorable or most impactful from 2024.

    Cait McVey
    Multimedia Journalist

    More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a brain disorder that slowly robs people of their memories. As Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month comes to an end, one Pinellas County resident shares his story of perseverance and friendship in the face of the debilitating disease.

    Read more stories from Cait McVey

    Calvin Lewis
    Multimedia Journalist

    “A Crystal River couple is opening their home to a family from Ukraine. Thanks to that sponsorship, the Kebap family have come to live and work in the U.S., offering a fresh start to their lives. This is one of my favorite stories this year because, to me, it showcases the best of human beings. An encounter on a cruise ship led to a Crystal River couple befriending a Ukrainian family and, ultimately, opening their home to them as they look to restart their lives.”

    “As many celebrated Thanksgiving, plenty gathered over a hot meal. But some needed a little help with that. A few local organizations came together in Oldsmar to make that possible. Another one of my favorite stories from this year simply for the fact that no matter where people came from, their backgrounds or social status, here they are sharing a meal with one another on a holiday that encompasses that very essence. Another showcase of the kind, human spirit during a time of gathering.”

    Read more stories from Calvin Lewis


    Jeff Butera
    Anchor

    “Have you ever heard about the miraculous rescue of 90% of the Jewish population in Denmark during the Holocaust? I hadn’t, until I told this story. It’s about the plot to quietly smuggle Danish Jews to safety on boats, away from Hitler’s wrath. It’s also about the push by two descendants of those Danish Jews to bring one of the boats to the Bay area, so others could learn the story too. I’ll never forget it. “

    Read more stories from Jeff Butera


    Julia Hazel
    Multimedia Journalist

    Maria Gibbs thought her mother’s memorial bench was destroyed by Hurricane Milton, but it was eventually found and pulled out of the water under the Albee Road Bridge.

    Manatee County Resident Deborah Garber and her family members lived in her brother’s home, which now has to be gutted due to high floodwaters.

    Read more stories from Julia Hazel


    Katherine Smith
    Sports
    Multimedia Journalist

    Cobras head coach Timothy Hicks can’t kick off until he’s taken the handoff from Hudson senior Dakota Schull with the list of winning plays.

    Dakota works hard on those plays. He meticulously writes each one down on a piece of paper. And even though he’s never played a down of football, he knows the sport. And he’d give anything to be able to play it. But Dakota suffers from Prader-Willi syndrome, a disorder that affects his physical and mental development.

    Paul does more than represent the United States as a member of Team USA’s wheelchair crew. He represents hope to anyone with a disability. A car accident at the age of 10 paralyzed him from the waist down. Soon after, Paul discovered wheelchair basketball. And he discovered his why.

    Read more stories from Katherine Smith

    Lizbeth Gutierrez
    Multimedia Journalist

    “This story was post back-to-back hurricanes when several small businesses in Wimauma had to close because of damages to their mobile units. This story showed how Enterprising Latinas and an educational center continued to help businesses after the storm. The owner of Louie Beans received a grant to help set her on the path to recovery.”

    “This is a story I did before the hurricane season focused on helping bridge gaps among the Hispanic community. Luz Gaona, as a product of Hillsborough County, is giving back by being the only bilingual therapy location in South Hillsborough County. Her passion shines through in what she does. Truly an inspiring and awesome story.”

    Read more stories from Lizbeth Gutierrez


    Matt Lackritz
    Multimedia Journalist

    According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban development, there are just under 2,300 homeless veterans in Florida. The Resource Empowerment Center in Tampa is one organization trying to lower that number.

    Read more stories from Matt Lakritz


    Nick Popham
    Multimedia Journalist

    “I’ve done a few stories on Travis Settineri and some of the awesome work he’s doing in Polk County and this is just one of the latest things he’s doing to help people in need!”

    Read more stories from Nick Popham

    Rick Elmhorst
    Anchor

    A Manatee County woman did something remarkable to help one of her neighbors. Marsha Davis donated one of her kidneys. Doctors at Tampa General performed the kidney transplant in April, and it was a success!

    Terrence Brown drives a free trolley-style “Looper” bus and has a reputation for going out of the way to make people feel welcome in downtown.

    Fourth grade Trinity Oaks Elementary teacher Stefanie Bozurich was teaching her class in February when student Ben Perkins ran up to her desk waving his hands in a panic and then putting his hands around his neck to let her know that he was choking.

    Read more stories from Rick Elmhorst


    Sarah Blazonis
    Multimedia Journalist

    “I love meeting people from around Tampa Bay and hearing their stories. Schiller’s is such a cool place, with pieces of local history mixed in with unique finds from around the globe. To get a tour from Larry and hear the story of how he got into the salvage business was a real treat.”

    Read more stories from Sarah Blazonis


    Saundra Weathers
    Multimedia Journalist

    For months, streets on barrier islands have been littered with storm debris.

    The piles of trash were a reminder of what was lost for a lot of people. So, why is one man bringing that debris that was removed back there? The answer is simple: He’s making a trash tree.

    On Madeira Beach, the aftermath and cleanup is just as devastating there as it is up and down the coast. For many, it became a matter of life and death.

    Read more stories from Saundra Weathers


    Tim Wronka
    Traffic Anchor

    “This is my favorite one just because it finally opened after years of delays. And since then, it has improved traffic in the areas it was meant to.”

    Read more stories from Tim Wronka

     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Babson Park restaurant fulfills Christmas wishes for students in need

    [ad_1]

    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.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link