ReportWire

Tag: Human Interest

  • Arts organization looks to new partnerships

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    LARGO, Fla. — There are only a few more days to enjoy the latest exhibition at the Creative Pinellas gallery space.

    What You Need To Know

    • Creative Pinellas to go remote after collaborative arts organization loses $1.2 million in county funding

    • Final Exhibition in Largo gallery Arts Annual Eight will close January 4

    • All proceeds from the exhibition and the pop-up holiday shop go towards bolstering artists and the organization

    The name of the show is Arts Annual Eight.

    And it’s the final show in their Largo gallery space. Last September, Pinellas County commissioners voted to cut more than $1 million in funding for the collaborative arts organization’s 2026 fiscal budget. They’ve also lost their lease to their county-owned building.

    Their plan is now to go remote.

    “Our staff will all be working from home, and we are continuing to partner with arts organizations and cultural institutions throughout the area,” Margaret Murray, CEO of Creative Pinellas said.

    The exhibition and holiday pop-up shop remain open through January 4. Staff will leave the building at the end of the month.

    All proceeds from the exhibition pieces and the pop-up shop are going to prop up artists and the organization.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • New year, new me; weight loss victories and disparities

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    TAMPA, Fla. — New year, new me. That’s a phrase often heard at the start of the new year, especially when it comes to being healthy and weight loss.

    What You Need To Know

    • In recent years, there have been breakthroughs with medication and surgical procedures when it comes to obesity

    In recent years, there have been breakthroughs with medication and surgical procedures. But for some communities, there is still a struggle.

    Numbers show there is a racial disparity when it comes to obesity. There is a group of women in the Bay Area that is determined to change those numbers.

    With their hands shivering, their walking shoes on and good conversation, getting in a workout on the Tampa Riverwalk is a piece of cake for these sisters now. But it hasn’t always been this way.

    They shared photos of themselves just a few years ago battling obesity.

    Vanessa Cowans shared photos of herself before her weight loss journey a few years ago. She has since lost more than 100 pounds.

    “They help me. I help them. We talked about things, shared recipes. We go work out together, walk together. We’ve tried several different gyms,” she said. “I mean, I knew I was overweight, and I knew it was the biggest I’ve ever been and the heaviest I had been my whole life, but I just felt like, ‘I’m functioning, I’m OK.’ But not being able to get up a flight of stairs without feeling literally like I can’t breathe, that was a lot.”

    A “before” photo of the three sisters.

    She said she went to her doctor, where she got a nutritionist, a weight loss pill and eventually GLP 1 injections to help keep the weight off.

    Her older sister, Charlotte Dixon, was also struggling with obesity. She took notice.

    “Right when we first started, my A1C was getting high, and the doctor told me one more time, You’re getting ready to get on medication,” Dixon said.

    It didn’t take long for their younger sister, Sharrel Cox, to join in too. Like her sisters, her health was on the line.

    “I have dilated cardio myelopathy. So, I have a lot of meds that kind of help me retain weight,” Cox said. “So, I didn’t realize that until I got more educated. And once that weight started falling off, my health skyrocketed and got a lot better. So just by seeing them putting their effort first saved my own life.”

    She feared having to go on a heart transplant list, but she says now that’s no longer a worry.

    All of their health concerns are backed up by data. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women have the highest prevalence for obesity when compared to any other race or gender, something that doctors say can lead to a host of long-term problems.

    Dr. Lindsay Wiles is the Obesity Medicine Director of the TGH + USF Bariatric Center.

    Her patients use everything from weight loss surgery, pills and GLP-1 injections to treat obesity, along with diet and exercise.

    “There are known risks with obesity, and those known risks are nine plus types of cancer that you’re at risk for. All of the heart conditions, all the liver conditions, all the kidney and sleep apnea and arthritis and all of those things.” Wiles said. “Those are the real things we live with every day that we can make better.”


    She currently treats all three sisters, and she said they’re the kind of patients whose stories will impact and educate entire communities.

    “That’s why I try to educate my patients so that they can educate the community and their friends and their family and everybody who has something to say about it,” she said. “There’s so much misunderstanding when it comes to this disease. Forever they’ve been told eat less, push away from the table. Exercise more and this can be fixed.”

    For those who do have something to say about weight loss or they’re just thinking about it, Cowans has the same kind of advice she gave to her sisters.

    “Start somewhere. Take the first step. Start somewhere,” she said.

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    Saundra Weathers

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  • Horiátiki recipe straight from Greek Islands at Hellas in Tarpon Springs

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — Hella’s longtime Executive Chef, Emmanuel “Manny” Psomas, wrote the recipe for this traditional Greek Salad on a paper tablecloth in the middle of the bustling restaurant Hellas.

    Hella’s Restaurant and Bakery is a mainstay in historic Tarpon Springs on Dodecanese Boulevard along the working sponge docks.

    It’s late December, and lines stretch out the door of the bakery — employees take orders in clipboards as people wait.

    Psomas wrote the recipe down after we lit cheese on fire and tasted the salad that’s on all the tables at Greek restaurants in Greece. 

    Psomas and his family are from the Greek Islands.

    He began working at Bellas in the early 1990s and travels to Greece every year. 

    This way, he grows his culinary legacy in keeping with the traditions of Greece.

    Horiátiki

    Greek Salad 

    (serves 2)

    Ingredients

    2 vine ripe tomatoes 

    ½ red onion

    ½ seedless cucumber

    6 Kalamata olives

    4  pepperoncini

    ½ bell pepper 

    4 oz. barrel-aged feta

    2 tbsp. capers, soaked in olive oil (optional)

    Method

    Combine all ingredients except feta and toss.

    Add feta to top salad.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Families cherish the last Santa letters sent by Cristina Grossu Biffle

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — NASCAR legend Greg Biffle and his wife Cristina were on a mission to spread holiday cheer. 

    What You Need To Know

    •  Cristina Grossu Biffle, the wife of NASCAR legend Greg Biffle, sent Santa letters to children over the years

    •  The couple,  their son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma died in a plane crash earlier this month

    •  Cristina sent over 2,500 packets with Santa letters, nice list certificates and Mrs. Claus magical cookie recipe

    •  The King family in Charlotte were grateful to be recipients of the packet


    Cristina Grossu Biffle sent free Santa letters to thousands of children over the years.  

    This year, the special delivery packet included a personalized Santa letter, an official nice list certificate and a recipe for Mrs. Claus magical cookies.

    Greg, Cristina, their son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma were four of seven people killed in a plane crash earlier this month. 

    Valerie King was one of the parents who requested free Santa letter for her daughter Avery. 

    “It was written from the heart. It was given to us by people that really care about other people. It was a letter that really meant something to Avery, Somebody who is famous spent their time writing all these letters to all these children and just putting smiles on everybody’s faces,” Valerie said. 

    Avery’s Santa letter read in part: “Avery, I can’t believe how much you’ve grown this year. I am so proud of you and all that if you have accomplished. It’s so fun to see when you dance. You are quite the little performer. Give Sunny, your hamster some love snuggles from me this year! Keep up the great work – your family loves you so much.”

    The Biffles helped Santa with this letter and other cookies. This year, Cristina sent more than 2,500 Santa letters to children around the country.

    Avery was grateful for this memorable keepsake. 

    “I was happy to find out I was in the nice list,” Avery said. “I liked that he included my hamster and my dancing because i’ve been dancing for quite a while.”

    Valerie received the special delivery packet a few days before the Biffles passed away. 

    “My heart broke when I found out it. I can’t even imagine what the family is feeling right now about this,” Valerie said. “I’m so close to my family, and if this happened to any of my family members, I don’t even know what I would do. It really hit home.”

    The Kings waited until the holiday to open the nice list certificate.

    “We actually didn’t open this till Christmas Day, and it really broke my heart even more because, you know, this is a couple weeks after it happened and they’re no longer with us,” Valerie said.

    The Kings are NASCAR fans and are also fans of the couple’s generosity.

    “My parents actually on Lake Norman so we see him on the boat a lot and he just all of these things that he did for Hurricane Helene and just what a wonderful person and his wife was,” Valerie said. 

    Families across the U.S. are posting to social media about the special deliveries. Emily Christopher from Texas recorded her sons, Fletcher and Beck, making Mrs. Claus’ magical cookies. In the video, a caption reads: “Thanks for the joy you spread to our family.” 

    The Kings plans to treasure this priceless gift.

    “Getting something like this is very special to us,” Valerie said. 

    They hope someone continues this tradition for years to come. In the meantime, Valerie plans to frame the certificate and letter for her daughter to keep in her room.

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

     

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    Estephany Escobar

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  • The Power of manifesting in the New Year

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    Manifesting, experts say, isn’t just about vision boards or positive thinking. It starts with reflection. Many yoga instructors encourage people to get grounded, look back on the year they had and release the guilt that often comes with feeling like they didn’t do enough.

    What You Need To Know

    • As the new year begins, many people are looking ahead — setting goals, making resolutions and hoping for a fresh start

    • But experts say before rushing into “doing more,” there’s real value in first slowing down

    • As 2026 approaches, wellness professionals say reflection and manifestation can be powerful tools for moving forward with intention rather than pressure

    • Rather than focusing only on what you want to achieve, the owner of Granville Yoga suggests asking yourself what you want to feel more of in the new year

    Maybe you weren’t as productive as you wanted to be. Maybe you spent the year simply trying to get through it, and that’s OK. Others may realize they actually accomplished a great deal — they just haven’t taken the time to pause and recognize how far they’ve come.

    Kelli Biehle, owner and instructor at Granville Yoga, said checking in with yourself is essential before setting intentions for the year ahead.

    Instead of judging the past, she encourages reframing it — viewing experiences and accomplishments as information. Rather than focusing only on what you want to achieve, she suggests asking yourself what you want to feel more of in the new year.

    “We’re go, go, go, and we’re always looking for that next thing, right? We’re trying to get to the next career goal or whatever,” Biehle said. “Our tagline of the studio is listen to your body to hear what’s on your mind that like, feel that like your body knows. Your body knows already. You just have to slow down enough to like, actually take stock and see what it’s trying to tell you.”

    She said awareness is a critical first step. From there, manifestation begins with gratitude — intentionally acknowledging the people and moments you’re thankful for.

    Biehle recommends starting with reflection and release: looking back on the past year with gratitude while letting go of what no longer serves you. From there, she suggests clarifying intentions in areas like health, career, and relationships — being specific about what you want, such as financial security rather than simply “more money.”

    Visualization is another key step. Closing your eyes and imagining yourself living your goals — and allowing yourself to feel the emotions associated with achieving them — can help make those goals feel more tangible. Using present-tense affirmations, such as “I am healthy” or “I love my body,” can also help train the mind to believe change is possible.

    Finally, she emphasizes taking action by breaking big goals into smaller, achievable steps for the first few months of the year.

    One practical tool Biehle recommends is journaling to help process the past year. She suggests writing about what did and didn’t serve you — and why — focusing especially on how certain situations made you feel.

    She also encourages answering the question, “What would it take?” For example: What would it take to start a business? To become a yoga teacher? To go back to college?

    Another exercise is writing down what excites you, then repeatedly asking yourself why — digging deeper each time. The final step is defining what success looks like for you personally, and understanding why it matters.

    “Sometimes I think that we get really focused on goals and we get really focused on this outer version of success. And I think as a whole society, we would really benefit a lot from thinking about what types of success we want and what actually makes us be like a successful human being, not a human doer,” Biehle said. 

    For those who don’t enjoy journaling, Biehle said writing notes in a phone or even talking things out loud can be just as effective. The key, she said, is getting thoughts out of your head and into conscious awareness.

    “Sometimes stillness isn’t really possible, you know, just for life reasons and so it can also look like these times of reflection can look like not putting in your earbuds for the first ten minutes of your walk, or the first ten minutes on the, the bike, whatever it is,” Biehle said. “It looks different and the idea of just finding some time to reflect is what is important here.”

    Above all, she reminds people to be kind to themselves. Growth and success look different for everyone, and progress isn’t about rushing to a destination — it’s about honoring the journey along the way.

    For more information about Granville Yoga and new year yoga classes, click here. 

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    Taylor Bruck

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  • Lakeland father honors 6-year-old son after sudden death at school

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — A Polk County father is honoring his son’s legacy after the 6-year-old suddenly died just days before Christmas.

    What You Need To Know

    • Jarvis Washington, father to his son, 6-year-old Mes’sia, is honoring his 6-year-old son, Mes’sia, by launching an autism awareness foundation after his sudden death
    • Mes’sia was nonverbal and on the autism spectrum

    • Washington said Mes’sia was his usual self when he dropped him off at school on Dec. 17, but later that day, the child became unresponsive in class and died unexpectedly

    • Mes’sia’s family is still waiting for the official cause of death from the medical examiner’s office


    Jarvis Washington stood outside his home, reflecting on some of his last fond memories of his son, Mes’sia.

    “He was a very playful, very lovable child,” Washington said.

    Washington said Mes’sia was his usual self when he dropped him off at school on Dec. 17. Later that day, the child became unresponsive in class and died unexpectedly. Washington said doctors believe pneumonia may have contributed to his son’s death.

    “And from the consistency of them trying to save his life, he went into a form of cardiac arrest,” Washington said.

    Mes’sia’s family is still waiting for the official cause of death from the medical examiner’s office, a process that could take weeks or longer.

    Since learning of Mes’sia’s death, community members have rallied to help raise money for funeral expenses. Washington said remaining funds will go toward a foundation he plans to launch in his son’s honor. Mes’sia was nonverbal and on the autism spectrum.

    “His legacy now is going to help other individuals who are very special, very gifted, and sometimes overlooked because of perceived barriers — physical or mental — that can ultimately provide solutions to the world,” Washington said.

    Washington said the organization will be called The World Is Mine Foundation, named after a message Mes’sia often carried with him.

    “When he passed away, he still had on one sock, and on it, it said, ‘The world is mine,’” Washington said. “I held onto it for a couple days and thought about my son’s legacy. He reminded me we’re a lot bigger than what we perceive.”

    Washington said it is a reminder that will live on forever.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Kids ring in the new year early at Kaleideum’s Noon Year’s Eve celebration

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    WINSTON-SALEM — Families rang in the new year a little early Wednesday at Kaleideum during the museum’s annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration, giving kids a chance to enjoy the excitement of a countdown without staying up past bedtime.

       What You Need To Know

    • The Kaleideum museum in Winston-Salem hosted its annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration

    • Elizabeth Dampier, CEO of Kaleideum, said the event has been a tradition since the museum’s early days and remains one of her favorites

    • It included a sensory-friendly option in the Digital Dome for families who preferred a calmer celebration

    • Kaleideum is closed Thursday but will reopen with normal business hours on Friday


    The kid-friendly event featured music, dance parties, arts and crafts and a festive ball drop — all before noon.

    As the count began, children joined in enthusiastically.

    “One, two, three, four — happy New Year!” shouted Justice Derrick.

    For Derrick, the celebration was about more than just fun. He said his New Year’s resolution is “to make sure everyone’s OK and be kind to each other and make friends.”

    Five-year-old Eliana Asare said she’s excited about what she might learn in the year ahead.

    “I think I’m going to learn how spring changes to summer,” Asare said.

    She’s also looking forward to plenty of fun, including dressing up, making crafts, seeing princesses and jumping on a trampoline.

    Another 5-year-old, Maddie Cocca, said she already has something special planned after the celebration.

    “I’m looking forward to having a sleepover at my grandma’s on New Year’s,” Cocca said.

    Elizabeth Dampier, CEO of Kaleideum, said the event has been a tradition since the museum’s early days and is special to her.

    “This is one of my favorite events of the year, and we have been doing this for years, really since the beginning of the origins of the museum,” Dampier said.

    She said what makes the celebration meaningful is seeing families experience it together.

    “There’s wonder, there’s curiosity, there’s excitement,” Dampier said. “What’s really great is to see their adults with them as well — having conversations, engaging with them and doing these things together.”

    The event also included a sensory-friendly option in the Digital Dome for families who preferred a calmer celebration.

    Kaleideum is closed Thursday but will reopen with normal business hours on Friday.

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

     

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    Ashley Van Havere

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  • K9 Partners For Patriots say they are at risk of losing funding this year

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    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A local veteran’s organization is at risk of losing major federal funding at the end of this year. 

    K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program. Through its work, the organization says it provides mental health support to veterans.

    Inside this warehouse, Frank Cohen runs through a few drills with his canine partner Gracie.

    What You Need To Know

    • K9 Partners For Patriots is among 28 veteran organizations nationwide that are at risk of losing funding through the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program

    • Those with the organization say this particular funding will expire December 31
    • It represents a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines, like Frank Cohen and his partner Gracie
    • Even though money has been approved for 2026, those with the organization say those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months


    “She’s significantly more than a pet because she goes with me everywhere, and some people will call them their partner but she’s a teammate for me,” said Cohen. “She has my back, and I have her back.”

    It’s possible due to K9 Partners For Patriots, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide. Dogs are screened to qualify and go through training with veterans. Cohen has been partnered with Gracie since 2023.

    “Every dog that’s considered as a prospect for the program goes through the AKC temperament testing that they do here at the facility,” says Cohen. “So she had to go through that first, and she passed it with flying colors.”

    But now the organization is at risk of losing critical federal funding. Communications director Gregg Laskoski said it’s money that comes from the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program.

    “We’ve been receiving that funding since 2015,” Laskoski said. “Unfortunately, the funding allocation for fiscal year 2025 has not been disbursed. Congress has stalled on that, and they’re telling us we have an allocation for fiscal year 2026, but that doesn’t get dispersed until maybe August or September.”

    Laskoski said that 28 other organizations are at risk of losing their funding as well. Which he said would be a significant loss and could impact the work they’re doing with both vets and their canines.

    “It gives them confidence because when they start to see that it’s their work training the dog that becomes their canine partner, that builds their confidence,” said Laskoski. “They see, hey, this is really working, and it pushes them forward, and you can see it in their body language. You can see it in their facial expressions.”

    Offering veterans like Cohen a new lease on life.

    “This feeling like a deer in the headlights all the time is an exhausting process,” said Cohen. “I don’t feel like that anymore because Gracie watches out for me in ways that I don’t have to. You know, that’s her job, God bless her.”

    Laskoski says this particular funding for their organization will expire December 31. Even though money has been approved for 2026, he says those funds won’t be available for 9 to 12 months.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Rockingham County band director to march in Rose Parade

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    EDEN, N.C. — In his 11th year teaching at Morehead High School in Eden, director of bands Nathan Hines is getting to check an item off his bucket list. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Nathan Hines was selected to be a part of the 350-member Band Directors Marching Band in the 2026 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California

    • The group features music educators from all over as part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project

    • Hines, one of 12 North Carolina band directors to be selected for this honor, will play trumpet along the parade route 


    Hines was selected to be a part of the 350-member Band Directors Marching Band in the 2026 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California. The group features music educators from all over as part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project.

    “There’s no better professional development for a teacher than being able to interact with teachers from all around the country and even some from other countries,” Hines said.

    Hines, one of 12 North Carolina band directors to be selected for this honor, will play trumpet along the 5.5-mile parade route. He previously played with some of the band members at the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and expects a similar experience in California. 

    “When [the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade] was over, that was two and a half miles, and it felt like it lasted 20 minutes,” he said. “Getting to play in front of millions of people there is pretty, pretty neat.”

    Nearly 10% of the students at Morehead High participate in the band program, and many of Hines’ students are excited to see him perform.

    “To get that recognition, to put Morehead and Eden on the map, sort of in a sense, that’s pretty cool to be a part of that,” said senior percussionist Enrique Garcia. 

    “He really cares for everyone in [the] band,” said senior flute player Diana Mor Martinez. “He makes sure everyone here is OK. He likes to remind us that everyone in [the] band is important, no matter how small your part.”

    Hines said he hopes his journey will be an inspiration to students. 

    “I hope actually for my students that they see that and say, ‘Well, you know, he’s still doing these things and maybe I can do that too in the future,’” he said.

    This isn’t the first time Hines was selected for the Rose Parade. He got a call to participate in 2021, but that event was canceled due to COVID. 

    Now, five years later, this will be Hines’ first trip to California, and he’s planning to do some sightseeing on the West Coast.

    The Morehead High School Band will perform in Hershey Park, Pennsylvania, in the spring, and the band recently received invitations to play at Pearl Harbor next December and in Ireland in 2027.

    Hines also completed a service through music project with the Morehead High band as part of a Saluting America’s Band Directors initiative.

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

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    Zach Tucker

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  • St. Armands Circle businesses get a boost in sales from holiday shoppers

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — Holiday shoppers are delivering a rush of business to end the year on an island where many businesses have been desperate for foot traffic.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Armand’s businesses are getting a boost in sales after more shoppers purchase items on the island

    • The Giving Tree owner says they tripled their sales for the month of December this year compared to December last year

    • The Giving Tree business owners hope to hit 10% growth next year

    One St. Armands Circle business owner says its sales numbers have tripled this month compared to last December.

    It’s a notable difference from last year, when both businesses and residents were still recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    Deb Goldberg, who owns The Giving Tree Gallery, said her business has been through many storms, but nothing compared to last year.

    She said 5 feet of water filled the business and ruined $70,000 worth of inventory.

    “It was — we were just on automatic pilot,” she said. “We just went to work and did everything we needed to do, high adrenaline, and cleaned it up and called the contractors.”

    Even though they reopened about a month after the storm, she said the island felt closed.

    “I think the perception that St. Armands was closed and still under water and still struggling was what we battled the most,” Goldberg said. “Because we all really did bounce back fairly quickly. After the first of the year, there were maybe 30% of the stores open.”

    But she said this year brought new life to St. Armands.

    Goldberg said that more people are shopping, and this December’s sales are triple what they were last December.

    “We’re overall, year-over-year better,” she said. “Some days were fantastic — tons of shoppers, tons of sales. And some days, you know, there were hours where people wouldn’t walk in the store.”

    Goldberg said she expects the week between Christmas and New Year’s to be one of the busiest of the year for her store.

    “The fun part is seeing both new people and local people come in,” she said.

    It’s a busy time for stores, and Goldberg said there is a feeling of normalcy for many.

    She said she hopes to hit 10% growth next year at The Giving Tree Gallery.

    “I’m really hoping for at least a 10% year-over-year increase from last year,” she said. “I would be thrilled with that. But I always shoot for the moon, you know, hoping for double that.”

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Benefit concert helping launch restoration efforts on Richey Suncoast Theatre

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A local landmark unique to New Port Richey is looking to get a little love in terms of restorative work.

    What You Need To Know

    • Touted as the “Heart of New Port Richey” and standing for nearly 100 years, the Richey Suncoast Theatre is in need of some restoration

    • A recent benefit concert titled “Letters With E” featuring Ed Roland of Collective Soul, is spearheading those efforts
    • The theatre has a long history of being a centerpiece of downtown, offering entertainment on the silver screen as well as community plays
    • Those at the theatre say renovations will begin with the roof in January, with plans for the theatre’s exterior afterwards


    The Richey Suncoast Theatre has stood for nearly 100 years, offering entertainment on the silver screen as well as community plays. But now, the theatre is in need of some restoration. A recent benefit concert is spearheading those efforts.

    At the corner of Grand Boulevard and Nebraska Avenue stands a landmark that has withstood the test of time.

    “This theatre is the heart of New Port Richey,” said Lia Gallegos, interim president of the board of directors for the Richey Suncoast Theatre.

    The near-century old monument in downtown New Port Richey is a place that’s dedicated to showcasing the arts. A place that has become like a second home for Gallegos.

    “The community absolutely loves the theatre and everything that she brings to the community,” she said. “It’s a place for kids and adults to learn new skills and become more creative.”

    But Gallegos said it’s in need of renovations, which was the inspiration for its first benefit concert, featuring Ed Roland of Collective Soul. The event raised over $42,000 from auctioned items.

    “Renovation is never a quick process, especially on a 100-year-old building,” Gallegos said. “But we’re looking forward to getting it started this year.”

    All sorts of relics from the theatre’s history are on display. History that board member Angela Sarabia knows well.

    “This is a series of programs from that first big season that they came out as the Richey Suncoast Theatre,” she said. “This is a movie poster from one of Thomas Meighan’s films. The theatre was originally built to showcase Thomas Meighan’s films, and he was the Tom Cruise of his day.”

    In order to understand where the theatre is going, she said, you need to know its past.

    “Some of the renovations that we’re really interested in doing are bolstering our windows and doors and the upper windows to hurricane proof us, because we know we live in an area that is going to continue to get these big storms,” said Sarabia. “So we don’t want that to be a problem for performers for the next hundred years.”

    Allowing the next generation of stars to take the stage, bringing in audiences both near and far.

    “For the ‘Letters with E’ concert, we had people flying in from all over the country who had never been to New Port Richey before,” said Gallegos. “So the theatre is that — it’s the draw to bring people from outside of the area to enjoy our downtown and get to experience it and, hopefully, keep them coming back.”

    And to keep breathing new life into this theatre.

    Those at the theatre say renovations will begin with the roof in January. They then plan to make renovations to the theatre’s exterior afterwards.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Workforce training in Charlote helping people in recovery find stability

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, employment is a key part of long-term recovery for people overcoming substance use disorders.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Workforce opportunities are helping residents in recovery open new career doors

    •  In North Carolina, a partnership is empowering more individuals overcoming substance use disorders through training for high-demand fields 

    •  One student shares how the workforce program is helping him 


    Research shows obtaining and maintaining meaningful work helps establish structure, income and self-esteem, which are linked to better recovery outcomes.

    This model is taking shape at the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives’ Vocational Training Center Charlotte, a nonprofit providing free, hands-on job training in HVAC-R installation and service, automotive repair and commercial driving.

    The Charlotte team has trained over 900 people for careers since its opening in 2020. 

    NCIA VTC Charlotte program director Christine Poltawsky said their reach includes residents identified as low-income, those who are justice-involved transitioning back into the community and people unhoused or in a recovery process.

    “What we’re really looking to do is reach anybody that does not have access to education and training,” said Poltawsky. 

    VTC Charlotte credits partnerships with the county and a local nonprofit for empowering more people facing barriers to education and workforce training. 

    Mecklenburg County awarded NCIA about $128,000 in opioid settlement funding for employment-related services tied to opioid recovery. 

    Poltawsky said those dollars are allowing them to expand workforce development reach to residents eligible for tuition-free training and support.

    “Most of the people in the county that got the funds – it’s been a lot of treatment centers. So we’re excited that we’re able to target things from a different direction,” Poltawsky said.

    “We are recruiting out in the community at all treatment centers, Charlotte Rescue Mission and others. It’s just allowed us to serve a larger number of their clientele because we have a different funding stream that we can bring them in under,” Poltawsky said.

    In 2023, VTC Charlotte partnered with the rescue mission, an organization offering residential recovery programs at no cost for individuals at the intersection of homelessness and addiction. This includes individuals overcoming alcohol and drug addiction.

    The rescue mission is connecting residents to career training and support at VTC Charlotte.

    “We started conversations on how we could refer people in their program, in order for them to continue to build on what they’re working on,” Poltawsky said.

    “They have steps they need to follow to move forward. What our program offers to the residents there is a pathway to get some industry-recognized credentials and then make some money so they can start paying the rent and move forward through that step process. Along with everyone else who comes through our doors, we’re just giving second chances,” Poltawsky said.

    Since 2023, over 50 rescue mission participants have enrolled in NCIA training programs, thanks to support from the opioid settlement funds. As a result of these partnerships, VTC Charlotte said many of the graduates are now working full-time jobs.  

    Graduate Kasey Lester was referred through the rescue mission and recently graduated from the HVAC program. 

    Lester said the workforce training has been a gamechanger for getting a job and for others seeking second chances. 

    Kasey Lester recently graduated from NCIA VTC Charlotte and credited its partnership with Charlotte Rescue Mission for opening new career doors. (Spectrum News 1/Jennifer Roberts)

    “I wasn’t aware of the opportunities that were up to grab, the things I could pursue, do for myself to get me out my regular routine of life,” Lester said. “That I could branch out and have more stability, more freedom, peace, knowledge. Through the Charlotte Rescue Mission, it has opened many doors.”

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services estimates over 1.4 million adults struggle with a substance use disorder.

    From 2000 to 2022, NCDHHS reports over 36,000 North Carolinians died from drug overdoses.

    Poltawsky said the data speaks to the importance of connecting those in recovery programs to workforce pipelines, so they can create lasting stability beyond treatment. 

    “It feels really good to contribute to the good news and changing somebody’s life for the positive,” Poltawsky said. 

    Walter Boseman is enrolled in VTC Charlotte’s HVAC-R program.

    “I have an associate degree in it already, but I got in an accident years ago which led me out of the workforce,” Boseman said. “I’m going back to what I know to get me up to par with new systems being used.”

    Boseman was also referred through the Charlotte Rescue Mission.

    Boseman said the combination of support and workforce training has helped create a pathway he needed. 

    “Put me back where God wanted me from the beginning,” Boseman said. “It’s working together just like an air conditioning unit. I’m just moving on up.”

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

     

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    Jennifer Roberts

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  • Akron public art inventory website goes live

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    AKRON, Ohio — A Northeast Ohio city created a new online inventory of their public art.

    What You Need To Know

    • In 2018, Mac and Allyse Love the founders of Art x Love started advocating for an online art database

    • The company was tasked with cataloging more than 700 public pieces of art throughout the City of Akron

    • The inventory is accessible to everyone including residents and visitors

    A place to find where art is in the city.

    In 2018, Mac and Allyse Love the founders of Art x Love started advocating for an online art database. Once it was approved, they developed the site for two years. They started collecting data for the inventory in 2024. The Akron art inventory website went live in late December.   

    “It helps the city understand what it’s responsible for,” said Mac Love the cofounder of Art x Love and the chief catalyst. “You know, what it’s responsible for maintaining and just as important as understanding what assets it has. It also helps paint a picture of where more public art is needed.”

    Art x Love is a creative agency that doubles as an art gallery. The company was tasked with cataloging more than 700 public pieces of art throughout the city of Akron.

    “The inventory is a database that features every piece of Akron art that is city owned, city funded, or on city property,” said Love.

    The inventory is accessible to everyone including residents and visitors. They can log on to the site to find out where a piece of art is located and even learn about its history.

    “We would like to encourage our residents, as well as the community to go out and about in the neighborhoods,” said Summer Hall the Public Art Liaison for the city of Akron. “Take a look at this art inventory. Check out the locations where the art is. I would recommend doing some art walks.”

    Summer Hall is the public art liaison for the city of Akron. She is responsible for coordinating efforts with the Akron Public Art Commission. She says the inventory is an ongoing project. More art will be added to the inventory even those not owned or funded by the city.

    “To make sure that, you know, art is in all the different neighborhoods, making sure that art’s not lacking in some of these neighborhoods and also with the maintenance plan from our inventory,” said Hall. “We will be maybe selecting 5 to 10 pieces that may need some work.”

    The inventory breaks down the art pieces into several categories including type of art, condition, accessibility and location. Love is currently finishing up a piece connected to the Akron marathon that was held in September.

    “This is a collaborative mural that was painted by over 3000 runners and their families at this year’s Akron marathon,” said Love.

    Once it is completed, it will be added to the inventory. Love says this inventory further amplifies the importance of art in the city.

    “It’s really important to take care of artwork and to invest in artwork,” said Love. “I think it keeps us from feeling lonely and it helps us expand our appreciation of, life and all of human experience.”

    The funding for the project was $48,500 and was a private gift to the Akron Public Art Commission. The art inventory is free to use and also has GPS to search artwork near you. To view the inventory, click here.

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    Rose Todd

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  • Son decorates home for Christmas to remember late mother

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    SUMMERFIELD, N.C. — The holidays are a time to gather and celebrate with family and friends. For some, annual holiday traditions have a deeper meaning, especially after loved ones pass away. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Sterling Nix of Summerfield keeps a tradition of putting up Christmas decorations each year

    • He started out as a young boy, helping his mother put them up at the family home

    • His mother died in 2023, and he says the tradition now helps him remember her

    “This is the accumulation of several years of just loving this hobby, and I enjoy sharing the spirit with others,” said Sterling Nix, a Summerfield resident. 

    Sterling Nix moved to Summerfield from Florida with his family in 2019. He has helped put up Christmas decorations at his family’s home each year since he was a young boy. It started out as a fun, annual chore with his mom. 

    “When I was young, I was obsessed with things that plugged in as a baby,” said Nix. “My mom always told me that I was getting into the lamps and stuff, just walking around, plugging them in and unplugging them, so I guess it’s just kind of a natural connection.”

    Things took a turn in March 2023 when Nix’s mom, Beth, passed away from heart failure.

    “Inside [our home] we don’t have nearly as many decorations as we did before, because I was always the outside person and he would take care of the inside,” said Nix. “There’s always a spot missing.”

    Each year since, Nix has carried on the family tradition. He says his mom’s favorite part was the nativity scene because it helped share the true meaning behind the holiday.

    “You can easily get lost in all the commercial aspects,” said Nix. 

    Nix says it takes nearly a month to set everything up. The display includes dozens of inflatables, lights and other festive decor including rare or hard-to-find items. 

    “I haven’t seen them in a while,” said Nix. “I plug them up and I’m like, dang, I forgot how big these things were.”

    When cars pass by to look at the display, Nix feels joy knowing that his work is appreciated by many and hopes they’ll take away something from it.

    “You don’t have to lose the magic of Christmas as you get older,” said Nix. “You can always look at the things that brought you joy. They don’t have to stop bringing you joy.”

    All while remembering his mother.

    “She loved bringing people joy, so this is what she would have loved,” said Nix. “She’d probably think it’s a little insane with the amount I’ve gone, but she’d love it.”

    Nix says power and wind can be the most challenging aspects when it comes to managing the display. He also sets up decorations for Halloween. He plans to buy more Christmas decor in the coming months and hopes to have a bigger display next year. 

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

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    Zach Tucker

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  • More than a meal: Charlotte nonprofit spreads hope on Christmas Day

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Christmas Day is often about tradition, family and celebration. But for many in Charlotte, it was also about community and compassion.

    Block Love Charlotte spent the holiday serving hot meals and offering support to people experiencing homelessness, turning a day that can be especially difficult into one filled with warmth and hope.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Block Love Charlotte served hot meals on Christmas Day to people experiencing homelessness across the city

    •  Volunteers also handed out toys, clothing, toiletries and books

    •  Founder Deborah Phillips says Christmas can be especially hard for families unsure where their next meal or paycheck will come from

    • Organizers plan to continue the tradition into the next Christmas


    The effort was marked by smiles, laughter and even a familiar holiday sound — the laugh of the Abominable Snowman — as volunteers worked to create a festive atmosphere for those they served.

    “It’s been big, like we’ve been crying literally all morning, everybody saying thank you,” said Deborah Phillips, founder of Block Love Charlotte.

    Volunteers spent the day handing out meals, toiletries, clothing and toys, focusing not just on providing necessities but on making people feel seen and valued during the holidays.

    “There’s nothing like waking up on a Christmas morning in, and you’re in a motel room. You don’t know where your next paycheck is coming from, you don’t know how you’re going to get the kids gifts, and you may not even know where your next meal is coming from,” Phillips said. “So we wanted to change all of that. Let’s give people their mind, give their minds some ease in knowing that somebody is going to show up today. So that’s why we do it.”

    For some volunteers, the event marked the start of a new holiday tradition.

    “We’ve supported monetarily. We’ve supported with food. And this was just an awesome time for us, to support in person and experience the reason for Christmas, and sharing gifts and just pouring out and reflecting God’s love to the community,” said volunteer Cindy Beasley.

    Beasley and her husband worked the toy table, helping children pick out gifts, something she says no family should have to go without during the holidays.

    “We’re able to do that, so why shouldn’t everybody be able to do that? And as a parent or grandparent, it’s just so special to be able to to give,” she said.

    Phillips said the children are often the most impacted by the outreach.

    “But the kids the most, like that toy table. Thank you all for everybody that donated. But it’s really big. This is bigger than Santa Claus,” she said.

    In addition to meals and toys, volunteers handed out clothing, toiletries and books. Organizers say the goal is simple — to show up when people need it most.

    Block Love Charlotte plans to continue the tradition next Christmas, continuing its mission to bring comfort and care to the community during the holiday season.

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

     

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    Jordan Kudisch

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  • N.C. animal shelter suggests doing research before giving pets as gifts

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    GREENSBORO, N.C. — Every year thousands of pets are given as holiday gifts, but some get returned to shelters.

    What You Need To Know

    • The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says a pet should only be given to those who have “sustained interest” and the “ability to take care of it responsibly”

    • ASPCA data from 2024 shows that more than 4 million cats and dogs were adopted from shelters nationwide 

    • Since Jan. 1, Guilford County Animal Services has helped nearly 2,100 dogs and 1,800 cats find homes 


    In North Carolina, shelter officials are urging caution when giving a pet this time of year.

    Jorge Ortega, director of Guilford County Animal Services, says some of the reasons for surrendered animals include housing concerns and lack of veterinary care.

    “I think the big key here is the family,” Ortega said. “The individual has to be ready for a new pet in the family.”

    According to the nonprofit Best Friends Animal Society, as of 2024, only 48 North Carolina shelters were listed as no-kill. 

    To help more pets stay with their new families, Guilford County Animal Services, which is recognized as a nearly no-kill shelter, uses a voucher system.

    “If you’re interested in giving a pet as a gift, we ask you to come here, get one of those vouchers, and then give the voucher as a gift and have the receiving individual come to the shelter and then pick the love of their life,” Ortega said.

    The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says a pet should only be given to those who have “sustained interest” and the “ability to take care of it responsibly.” The nonprofit says parents that give children ages 12 and under pets as gifts should be ready to assume care for the animal.

    Ortega says it’s important to do your research before bringing a pet home.

    “If they’re looking at a dog that’s really active, how much time do they have to give to that dog, so they can work on that energy level,” Ortega said. “Or are we looking at probably adopting a cat if they have long hours.”

    ASPCA data from 2024 shows that more than 4 million cats and dogs were adopted from shelters nationwide. More than 600,000 animals were euthanized.

    Since Jan. 1, Guilford County Animal Services has helped nearly 2,100 dogs and 1,800 cats find homes. 

    “To be able to find homes for these pets, it’s not only rewarding for me, but it’s rewarding for the whole team that works here,” Ortega said. 

    Officials urge owners to have their pets microchipped and to make sure that the information is updated, so that if they ever get lost or go missing they can be reunited with their family.

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

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    Zach Tucker

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  • Restored American Girl Dolls brighten holidays for military connected children

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    OHIO — Often, some of life’s beautiful moments are inspired by tragic events that change our lives forever. Many people find ways to move forward by giving back to a cause of organization that hits close to home.

    What You Need To Know

    • Vicki and Allan Carleton started Trey’s Dolls in honor of their son

    • For a decade they’ve been restoring and repairing American Girl Dolls and donating them to children in hospitals or even impacted by the Texas and North Carolina floods

    • Blue Star Families of Dayton and SWOH teamed up with Trey’s Dolls to give nearly 40 dolls to military connected children

    • The dolls were a surprise and parents wrote letters explaining why a doll would make a difference…every girl received a doll

    With a steady hand, delicate skill and a little TLC Vicki and Allan Carleton have spent a lot of time over the past decade bringing dolls back to life.

    Many of the dolls are the classic American Girl Dolls.

    They started Trey’s Dolls in honor of their son.

    “He was diagnosed with Berkins lymphoma on Dec. 3, when they did exploratory surgery to see what this lump was in his side. And two days later, he passed away still in the hospital,” said Vicki Carleton.

    Through charities, organizations, and social media, word of Trey’s Dolls spread.

    Some people send them brand new dolls, and others that have been loved over the years.

    Their restored dolls have gone to hospitals and even into the arms of little girls after disasters like the Texas and North Carolina floods. 

    “If we get used dolls, and they’re going to the hospital, then we have to take all the stuffing out and wash it and sanitize,” said Vicki.

    “It makes me feel wonderful that we’re able to do it and that we’ve learned over time,” Allan said. “I just feel like a small part of the process.”

    Allan is a Navy veteran.

    When they aren’t working on dolls at home, sometimes they’ll bring them to the Fisher House on the Dayton VA Medical Center campus.

    Allan receives radiation treatments for his own cancer diagnosis, and staying at the Fisher House saves them the stress of driving back and forth.

    “I just can’t tell you how much it means,” Allan said.

    It was through a connection at the Fisher House that the Carletons made contact with Blue Star Families of Dayton and Southwestern Ohio and executive director Geri Maples.

    Shortly after, an idea to gift the dolls to military connected young girls came to reality.

    The girls received gifts but had no idea that a restored American Girl Doll waited inside.

    The Carletons have gifted hundreds of dolls, but it’s not often they get to see them opened in real time. 

    “Initially I said 20 would be selected, but I read all their stories and I’m like ‘nope they all have to have one’. I was in tears reading some of these stories about what it would mean to them,” said Maples.

    “She’s our only girl, we have three boys. So this was kind of special for her that it was the only event with her by herself and no brothers,” said mother and veteran spouse Mia Bennett.

    “This is an amazing experience that I couldn’t give my daughter, that they were able to do that for her, so I really appreciate it, thank you,” said mother and Marine Corps veteran Ashlee Almazan.

    “Moving sometimes seven or eight times throughout a school year, having to make new friends, an American Girl Doll can go with you anywhere,” Maples said.

    For the Carletons, they were able to take their son’s memory another step.

    “I think he would absolutely love it. He loved children. He had two children, and he loved his two children so much. And I think he would have loved that they are military families,” said Vicki.

    Vicki and Allan donated nearly 40 dolls to Blue Star Families of Dayton and Southwestern Ohio.

    The non-profit hosts free events and outreach opportunities all year long for military members, veterans and their families. 

    For more information, click here.

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    Alese Underwood

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  • Options are narrowing to ship packages for Dec. 24 delivery

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    With two shopping days left before Christmas, the rush is on to not only find the perfect present but get it to its destination on time. The options are narrowing.

    Individuals who need their packages to arrive by Dec. 24 are down to a handful of options.

    What You Need To Know

    • Individuals who need their holiday packages to arrive by Dec. 24 are down to a handful of options

    • People who ship packages Tuesday can still use UPS Next Day Air and FedEx First Overnight Services. The time cutoff for many UPS locations is between 6-8 p.m. For FedEx, time cutoffs vary by location but is often 4-5 p.m.

    • The only shipping service offering same-day delivery on Dec. 24 is FedEx SameDay, which provides door-to-door delivery on packages of up to 150 pounds for all 50 states

    • While the U.S. Post Office is delivering mail and post offices are open for service on Dec. 23 and 24, the deadline for shipping priority mail with a guaranteed Dec. 24 delivery was Dec. 20


    People who ship packages Tuesday can still use UPS Next Day Air and FedEx First Overnight Services. The time cutoff for many UPS locations is between 6-8 p.m. For FedEx, time cutoffs vary by location but are often between 4-5 p.m.

    The only shipping service offering same-day delivery on Dec. 24 is FedEx SameDay, which provides door-to-door delivery on packages of up to 150 pounds for all 50 states. Prices are determined by distance, weight and how the item is packed. 

    While the U.S. Post Office is delivering mail and post offices are open for service on Dec. 23 and 24, the deadline for shipping priority mail with a guaranteed Dec. 24 delivery was Dec. 20. On Christmas Eve, mail will be picked up as scheduled from blue collection boxes, and regular mail and Priority Mail Express items will be delivered.

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    Susan Carpenter

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  • Catching up with Floridians whose stories inspired us in 2025

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    FLORIDA — As we get closer to the end of the year, we look back at a year that brought happy times for some, but major struggles for even more. These stories are of those who found the strength to overcome adversity often make the most inspiring impression.

    Spectrum News catches up with some of the incredible individuals who taught us all a little bit about the best of humanity in 2025.

     

     

     

    Finding Your Passion

    — Apopka, FL —

    In the middle of February, Delia Miller shared her journey of finding her passions and purpose. Combining her love of art, concern for the environment, and newfound passion for aviation, she has turned all of this into an inspiring project.

    Her journey began with an opportunity to paint a mural in her hometown. Her path took a turn in an airport bathroom where she met a young, Black, female airline captain. The encounter spurred Miller to pursue aviation as a career path.

    Watch Delia’s story to witness how she turns dreams into reality and encourages others to discover their greater purpose.

     

    Act of Kindness

    — Orlando, FL —

    Watch her story to see how her acts of kindness reached kids in Geneva and Belize.

    In September, young Gracelynn “Gracie” Decelles shared her story with us. Two years ago, the now 8-year-old girl began selling eggs from her family’s chickens at a small stand outside her home. The proceeds of those sales went toward the purchase of hundreds of backpacks for children in need.

    Watch her story to see how her acts of kindness reached kids in Geneva and Belize.

     

     

     

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    Dan Trotter

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  • Pasco County families receiving help through new Better Future program

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Pasco County homeowners, whose homes were damaged during hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton, are getting some much-needed help from the county.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County homeowners affected by hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton can apply for the Better Future housing program

    • The program offers help to repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged in last year’s hurricanes
    • Checks are being presented to those families who’ve already applied, made possible through federal funding from the Community Development Block Grant


    It’s through the Better Future housing program, which offers help to repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged by last year’s hurricanes. It’s helping one particular family just before the holidays.

    “This is such a great program, we want to present you guys with a check for reimbursement,” said Jack Mariano, chair of Pasco Board of County Commissioners.

    Outside the West Pasco Government Center, the first Better Future check is presented to the Onishenko family.

    “Life after was a little difficult with some of the damage that we had,” said check recipient Steven Entwistle.

    The Onishenko’s home was damaged during last year’s hurricanes, requiring them to dip into their own pockets to make repairs, until now.

    “Life is expensive, and then, when you have those repairs come in, that’s a monthly payment that just keeps coming in,” said Entwistle. “So now, with this check, it’s 100% covering all that debt, and I don’t need those monthly payments anymore, and I’m much happier.”

    The program is made possible through federal funding from the Community Development Block Grant.

    “This is going to be a very important program for the people that couldn’t get the work done because they didn’t have the funding,” said Mariano. “Now, other families that couldn’t get in, can get in and get the help to do it direct with us.”

    More checks are on the way to other families affected as well.

    “We want to show optimism that all the hard work, all the struggles that have gone through, the help that is here now and the team behind us — my fellow commissioners, Yeager and Oakley here, and Starkey and Weightman as well — we are 100% behind this program,” Mariano said. “Confident this is going to help our people get their lives back together, help them recover and live a much better quality of life coming up.”

    And to have that money just before the holidays means a little more.

    “It helps fund the family again instead of so much going out,” said Entwistle. “So it being right around Christmas was a big miracle, if you ask me.”

    A holiday miracle for this family.

    All homeowners who sustained damage from the three storms in Pasco County can apply for the Better Future program. However, priority goes to low-income households, seniors and people with disabilities, and residents who have been displaced.

    You can learn more information on the Pasco County website.

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    Calvin Lewis

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