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Tag: manatee county

  • Florida Agriculture Commissioner says cold caused up to $1.5B in crop damages

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — Information from the Florida Department of Agriculture shows that the state’s recent bout of cold weather may have caused more than $1 billion in losses for the state’s farmers. 

    “We’ve really gotten devastated in Florida,” Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said. “We don’t know the full extent yet of all the damage. Early assessments were the first night, we probably did OK. We were able to come through that. But three nights in a row, well below 32 for many, many hours really has devastated agriculture.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson says early assessments show the state’s farmers lost anywhere from $500 million to $1.5 billion to crop damage during the recent bout of cold weather
    • The owner of Blumemberry Farms in Sarasota estimates her losses at $45,000

    • Colleen Blumenthal said her team was able to harvest a lot right before temperatures dipped, but much of what they couldn’t get to was lost — including about 80% of her tomato crop and half of her farm’s green beans

    • Simpson said he’s in talks with federal officials about securing financial relief for Florida farmers


    Walking the fields of Blumenberry Farms in Sarasota, visitors will find as many as 70 different crops. After the recent cold snap hit, owner Colleen Blumenthal said much of the view is very different.

    “This was completely full with really ripe, luscious green beans,” she said. “But once the weather got below 35, they just died on the vine.”

    Blumenthal said about half of her green beans were lost to the recent cold weather, along with 80% of her tomatoes. She said she’s looking at up to $45,000 in losses across all crops.

    Simpson said that is a situation farmers are facing statewide, with early assessments showing anywhere from $500 million to $1.5 billion in damages.

    “You’ve got to remember, this time of year we’re growing 70-80% of all the fresh vegetables that are sold on the eastern seaboard of the United States,” Simpson said. “So, this is the bread basket of the country right now.”

    He said he’s in talks with U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and the White House to secure financial relief for the state’s farmers. 

    “I believe the President (Donald Trump) is going to be very supportive of resources coming back in to support our farmers,” Simpson said. “My big thing was, let’s try to do this in real time.”

    In the meantime, local farms like Blumenberry are making assessments of their own.

    “It’s possible we might be able to harvest those,” farm manager Aaron Drucker said, gesturing to green tomatoes that may not have frozen in the cold. “As far as these plants continuing to thrive and create more tomatoes? Unlikely.”

    According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, agriculture brought nearly $9 billion to the state’s economy in 2022. 

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • How Myakka Elephant Ranch keeps their elephants warm

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Elephants may be built for the wild, but colder weather still means extra care.

    So animal handlers at the Myakka Animal Ranch in Manatee County are taking extra steps to keep their animals safe.

    “This is so cool,” Finley Martin said while watching the animals in their environment. “You are so cute.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Elephants at the  Myakka Elephant Ranch

    • Petting the elephants brings the experience to a whole new level at Myakka Elephant Ranch

    • During the colder temperatures in Florida the elephants living here in Myakka Elephant Ranch have a unique way to keep them warm
    • There are a total of six elephants at the ranch. Founder Lou Barreda said their response to cooler temperatures depends on where the elephants are from and what their bodies are used to. But he said they’d rather be warm

    Petting the elephants brings the experience to a whole new level at Myakka Elephant Ranch.

    “The skin feels weirder than I thought it would be,” said Martin, who said the experience was everything he and his family had been waiting for.

    “I have been waiting for it for several months. It was everything I hoped it would be,” Jennifer Martin said.

    Finley Martin pets an elephant at the Myakka Elephant Rescue. (Julia Hazel/Spectrum News)

    There are a total of six elephants at the ranch. Founder Lou Barreda said their response to cooler temperatures depends on where the elephants are from and what their bodies are used to. But he said they’d rather be warm.

    “Yeah, we just kind of burn through a lot of diesel during the cold time for heaters for them, and we try to keep their inside temperature around 50 degrees or so, and they really enjoy that,” Barreda said.

    Elephants’ body temperatures are actually similar to ours, but they have a different way to regulate their bodies to keep warm.

    “A lot of people think that the African elephant is not good with cold weather. But if you look at Africa, the continent is huge, so it can be different climates, and especially at night it can get real, real cold,” Barreda said. “So what they do is, during the day, they absorb that heat and regulate it so it lasts throughout the night,” he said.

    So no matter the weather, the team is prepared — and so are the elephants — to meet and greet new faces.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Bradenton teacher helps students find a love for reading

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Ann Hunsader is the fourth-grade reading teacher at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School. 

    And for her, the best part of the job is her students. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Ann Hunsader is a fourth-grade reading teacher at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School in Bradenton 

    • She’s been a teacher for 30 years, spending almost half that time in Bradenton
    • Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here

    “They’re just so curious and they just want to learn,” Hunsader said. “And especially I would say because I teach reading, we can have some really great discussions. They’re just starting to come into their own and I love that about them.”

    She’s been a teacher for 30 years. She’s spent half of that time teaching in Bradenton where she grew up. Hunsader said she builds relationships with every student and that helps them learn.

    “Our promise is that every child should be known and every child should be valued,” said Hunsader. She went on to say, “I know which kids like chess. I know the strengths of the kids. I know where the kids need help. And they’re not just a number to us.”

    Hunsader’s husband also works at the school as the Athletic Facilities Director.

    “I keep telling her, you touch these kids’ lives more than you think,” said Dan Krone.

    A parent reached out to nominate Hunsader to be featured as an A+ Teacher for her commitment to her students and the school.

    “That’s the type of teacher that I strive to be and to know that she saw that in me,” Hunsader said. “(It) just really touches me.”

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    Jorja Roman

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  • Colder than normal temperatures expected for several days

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    A strong cold front has brought in much cooler air, with another reinforcing shot of cold air this weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • Freezing temperatures are expected north of Tampa

    • Highs will only be in the 50s and 60s the rest of the work week

    • It could get even colder next weekend


    Low temperatures on Tuesday morning will fall to the mid-to-upper 30s for Tampa, but expect some areas near freezing in eastern Hillsborough and Polk counties.

    A freeze warning is in effect for Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties, where lows in the mid-20s to near 30 are likely.

    Wind chills near or even below 20 are possible north of Tampa, with 20s to low 30s wind chills possible elsewhere. 

    Wednesday morning will be a touch colder, so expect freezing temperatures north of Tampa once again.

    Expect another cold morning with a freeze north on Thursday, but it will be slightly milder to start Friday. 

    This Weekend

    Another strong cold front will come through during the day on Saturday.

    This will bring a chance of showers during the day, then falling temperatures Saturday night.

    Sunday morning could be the coldest of the winter, with temperatures near freezing in Tampa and possibly in the teens in Hernando and Citrus counties.

    Long Term Forecast

    Beyond the weekend, there is no sign of the colder air letting up.

    A big dip in the jet stream across the eastern United States will continue to drive cold fronts south.

    Below-normal temperatures are expected through at least the first week of February. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Kyle Hanson

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  • Proposed transfer of USF Sarasota-Manatee sparks debate over future of campus

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — A proposal in Tallahassee could change the future of higher education in Sarasota.

    Lawmakers are considering transferring University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee to New College of Florida — a plan that supporters say would strengthen New College, while critics warn it could hurt students at USF.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lawmakers are considering transferring USF Sarasota-Manatee to New College of Florida

    • This isn’t the first time there have been talks about a transfer

    • If passed, USF Sarasota-Manatee properties and facilities would be transferred to New College of Florida by July 1, though UFC says current students would be able to finish their courses at the original campus

    • The proposal will now move through the legislative process, where lawmakers would have to approve the transfer


    This isn’t the first time there have been talks of transferring USF Sarasota-Manatee to New College of Florida. Spectrum News spoke with the Vice President of USF’s Faculty Senate, who said they fought a similar effort last year, and they weren’t expecting it to come back up.

    “This would be a forcible eviction of our faculty, staff, and students by this summer,” said Scott Perry.

    But the manager of media relations at USF Sarasota-Manatee, Ryan Hughes, says it won’t impact current students. “Students currently enrolled would be able to continue taking classes and finish their program at the Sarasota-Manatee campus if this legislation is passed,” Hughes said in a statement. “We would not admit or enroll any new students if the legislation is approved.”

    Perry’s feelings are clear about the proposed transfer of USF Sarasota-Manatee to New College of Florida. He has taught there for 19 years and is the vice president of USF’s Faculty Senate. He said that the campus means a lot to its students and community.

    “We have a very strong, active community group of supporters who really want these programs. We have 40 undergraduate programs. We’re an AAU accredited university,” said Perry.

    If passed, USF Sarasota-Manatee properties and facilities would be transferred to New College of Florida by July 1. At a December Board of Trustees meeting, Richard Corcoran, president of New College, called Gov. Ron DeSantis’ transfer plan “significant,” saying it solves a lot of problems.

    “That’s going to go through the legislative process. His budget is a recommendation, but I’ll say he’s been a tremendous advocate for New College and what’s going on here, so we feel pretty good about that,” said Corcoran.

    At a press conference in Pinellas County on Jan. 14, DeSantis said leadership agreed the transfer would be good for New College and that USF’s momentum is in Tampa Bay.

    “We’ve been supportive of it,” DeSantis said. “I think what they’ve been able to accomplish in such a short period of time — think about it — you were in the class and now they’re saying something different. It’s almost like you go to the Naval Academy and then they shift to Coast Guard. Well, that’s not what you signed up for,” said DeSantis.

    The proposal will now move through the legislative process, where lawmakers would have to approve the transfer.

    Perry says the Student Government Associations at all three USF campuses put together a resolution saying they oppose the transfer.

    EDITOR’S NOTE (Jan. 27, 2026): A previous version of this story said current students would have to transfer campuses. USF Sarasota-Manatee said that is incorrect. The article has been edited to include a statement from the media relations team at USF clarifying the impact on current students. The video has been removed.

    Previous New College Coverage

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • Manatee County to take 5 million gallons of water a day from Peace River in 2036

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Part of Manatee County’s long-term water plan calls for taking drinking water from the Peace River.

    It comes at a critical time, as the county has seen an increase in water consumption because of rapid growth in the area.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to county officials, it’s part of a long-term plan. Starting in 2036, the county would take five million gallons of water a day from the river

    • Other counties already get their drinking water from the Peace River, and because of increased demand, Manatee County moved up its timeline by a year

    • While environmental groups worry about future affects, the county says a new water source is essential to keep drinking water flowing

    Protecting the environment and local waterways is a top priority for Abbey Tyrna.

    “Oh, the environment means everything — not just to me, but to our economy,” she said.

    She is the executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, an organization that protects and restores Florida’s waterways.

    She is concerned about where Manatee County will get its drinking water in the future, as the county plans to tap into the Peace River.

    “It cannot satisfy the growing population. The Peace River will go dry,” she said. “We already see problems in the headwaters of the Peace River. We need to protect the headwaters of the Peace River.”

    Other counties already get their drinking water from the Peace River, and because of increased demand, Manatee County moved up its timeline by a year.

    According to county officials, it’s part of a long-term plan. Starting in 2036, the county would take five million gallons of water a day from the river.

    Currently, the county uses about 50 million gallons of water a day.

    Two-thirds comes from Lake Manatee, and one-third comes from groundwater.

    “Currently, we don’t take any water from the Peace River Authority. But our long-term planning has always had a contingency plan to connect to the Peace River,” said Patrick Shea, the utilities director for Manatee County.

    At the water treatment plant, he says there is plenty of drinking water, but usage has increased over time.

    “Because of growth — recent growth — and the dry season, our annual projections for water use and water demand have increased, moving up that timeline,” he said.

    Abbey says the county should explore other options before tapping into the Peace River.

    “We need to start connecting to reclaimed water and stop using our limited supplies of groundwater for things like irrigation,” she said.

    While environmental groups worry about future effects, the county says a new water source is essential to keep drinking water flowing.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County cruise port proposal faces opposition

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — A cruise terminal proposal has generated pushback from Manatee County residents and raised concern from environmental groups.

    What You Need To Know

    • A cruise terminal proposal in Manatee County raises environmental concerns

    • Enironmental advocates say the project could impact coastal wetlands, mangroves, and seagrass meadows

    • The proposal is expected to generate significant economic benefits, according to SSA Marine

    Protecting Tampa Bay’s water and wildlife is a passion for Maya Burke, but it’s also her job. The proposal could have a significant affect on her.

    Burke, assistant director for the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, says a spot near the South Sunshine Skyway rest area is ecologically rich.

    “There are important coastal wetlands and mangrove forests, lush seagrass meadows. There’s even hard live bottom out in this part of the bay. So it’s really unique and important habitats, and it would be devastating to lose these,” she said.

    Burke worries about the impact of a large port.

    “If we have a cruise port here, not only would we need to protect things like Rattlesnake Key, which are already here existing in natural state, but we would have to add more beyond that. So we would have to sort of come out with a net benefit for the environment,” she said.

    Because the proposal has not been added to a Manatee County Board of Commissioners agenda, the county has no comment on it. We reached out multiple times to individual commissioners for their opinion. None responded. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau also declined comment.

    But SSA Marine, a national terminal cruise operator, says the proposed port will have a positive economic impact. On the website Knott Cowen Cruise, it says: “We estimate that the construction investment for this proposed project will generate more than 31,000 jobs in industries directly and indirectly related to the port in the state and region, and boost labor wages by $1.6 billion. In addition, this infrastructure investment is projected to generate more than $5 billion in total economic impact for the state and regional economy.”

    Florida AAA representative Mark Jenkins says the prospect of adding a cruise port in Manatee County is an exciting opportunity.

    “I think this has a direct economic impact on the area as well, because you have travelers who are coming to the area for a cruise, many of them looking to stay a couple of days before and after their cruise where they’re visiting the hotels, the restaurants and different establishments,” he said.

    But many Manatee County residents don’t agree.

    Corey McKeever started a petition a week ago against the port. It already has thousands of signatures.

    “There had to be someone that could stop this, and I guess that person had to be me,” he said.

    He felt the need to lead the movement, as someone who knows these waters. He has owned and operated McKeever’s Marine for 15 years.

    “It will destroy the water. It will destroy the ecosystem bigger. It will destroy all the local businesses because these companies are creating their own businesses. This money is not going to come to us. It’s going directly to the cruise company,” he said.

    And for environmentalists like the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, the debate isn’t just about ships or jobs — it’s about what could be lost in waters that can’t easily be replaced.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Lido Beach renourishment project to begin Sunday

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    SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. — Crews were scheduled to start a renourishment project at Lido Beach on Monday, but rough weather forced a delay.

    What You Need To Know

    • The renourishment will begin Sunday and is expected to be completed in April, before sea turtle nesting season. The $12 million cost for this year’s renourishment is fully covered through federal funding

    • A 50-year partnership between the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers calls for renourishment of Lido Beach every five years. This year, around 300,000 cubic yards of sand will be added, all dredged from New Pass

    • The county says signs will be posted alerting beachgoers when areas are temporarily closed, and the plan is to keep the beach as open as possible

    The work will now begin Sunday, with 300,000 cubic yards of locally sourced sand being brought in. The plan is to rebuild shoreline lost to storms.

    Officials say dredging will begin in New Pass, with crews starting at the north end of the beach and moving south.

    Once a week, Dawn D’Alessio searches for small gifts from the sea.

    “It’s a treasure hunt, really. You never know what you are going to find,” she said.

    For D’Alessio, it’s about the joy that comes with the find.

    “This is how I get rid of my stress — coming to the beach and collecting shells,” she said.

    A 50-year partnership between the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers calls for renourishment of Lido Beach every five years. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Julia Hazel)

    She’s walking along Lido Beach, which will soon undergo a restoration project.

    A 50-year partnership between the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers calls for renourishment of Lido Beach every five years. This year, around 300,000 cubic yards of sand will be added, all dredged from New Pass.

    “I think it’s a great idea. From all the damage the beaches sustained from the storms, it’ll really help the environment — get more sand here and build up the barriers to protect the residents,” she said.

    The City of Sarasota’s engineer, Sage Kamiya, says the project aims to restore what was lost from recent hurricanes, especially Debby, Helene and Milton in 2024.

    “There were areas of the beach that lost up to 80 feet of width, and a lot of that is being put back. I think we’ve averaged about a 50-foot width that will be restored going forward,” he said.

    Crews will start at the north end of the beach near the Lido Beach Pavilion and make their way south to restore 1.2 miles of eroded shoreline.

    But some businesses on the beach, like Lido Island Grill, worry the project could interfere with business.

    “February is when we start to have the full season with our customers, and we’re hoping they won’t be scared of the renourishment and all the work and its impact,” said Christophe Barthe, the manager of Lido Island Grill.

    The county said that signs will be posted alerting beachgoers when areas are temporarily closed, and the plan is to keep the beach as open as possible.

    The beach is D’Alessio home away from home, with renourishment projects ensuring she’ll be able to return for years to come.

    The renourishment will begin Sunday and is expected to be completed in April, before sea turtle nesting season. The $12 million cost for this year’s renourishment is fully covered through federal funding.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • First family moves in under Habitat’s Advancing Black Homeownership Program

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Habitat for Humanity has launched a new push to expand Black homeownership. For many families, owning a home has felt out of reach.

    It’s called the Advancing Black Homeownership Program. It started last year, and now its first recipient moved in last week.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Advancing Black Homeownership Program started in 2024

    • The program had an increase in applicants from just 50 in 2024 to 150 in 2025

    • The application period for the Advancing Black Homeownership Program runs from Tuesday, Feb. 10 through Tuesday, Feb. 17

    She already has the keys to her new home, but today Princess Cummings is volunteering, helping make this house a home for another family.

    “I just closed on my home on Jan. 9 of this year, so I’m super, super happy,” she said.

    Princess is the first person in Manatee County’s Advancing Black Homeownership Program to buy a home.

    “My house is about $317,000, but overall with my mortgage, homeowner’s insurance, and property taxes, everything comes out to almost $1,300,” she said.

    The goal of the Advancing Black Homeownership Program is to help more Black families achieve homeownership.

    For Princess and her three children, that help came at a critical time. She says they could no longer afford their rent and had been homeless since March of last year.

    “I lived in a hotel before. I stayed at an extended stay, and I stayed with family before,” she said. “It was very difficult, extremely difficult,” she said.

    Now, moving into a three-bedroom home, she says a weight has been lifted.

    “All the glory to God. I’m super excited,” she said.

    The task force started in 2024 with just 50 applicants. That number grew to 150 the following year. Now, in 2026, officials expect an even bigger increase.

    “We are definitely seeing an increase in applicants due to the affordability crisis,” she said.

    Kaveecia Moore is the director of homeowner services with Manatee Habitat for Humanity. The goal is to have 15 families in homes by 2031.

    “The Advancing Black Homeownership Program is really to address the racial gap in homeownership and to increase involvement in our community,” she said.

    Giving Princess and her family a place to call their forever home.

    The application period for the Advancing Black Homeownership Program runs from Tuesday, Feb. 10 through Tuesday, Feb. 17.

    Manatee Habitat for Humanity as a whole also saw a 51 percent increase in applicants from 2024 to 2025.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Police: 1 dead, 1 hospitalized in shooting at Bradenton lab processing facility

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Bradenton Police say a man faces first degree murder charges for allegedly killing his ex-girlfriend and wounding one of her co-workers at a medical processing lab.

    According to police, 29-year-old Keith Roberts, Jr. was arrested shortly before 6 p.m. Thursday. They say he fatally shot his ex-girlfriend, Myshaela Burnham, 29, then turned the gun on another office employee who witnessed the crime.

    It happened on 4th Avenue Circle East, just off of State Road 64. Police said the call came in shortly before 1 p.m. A spokesperson said a number of witnesses were able to identify a vehicle involved, and police stopped one matching that description 22 minutes later as it crossed the DeSoto Bridge into Palmetto. That’s where police said Roberts was taken into custody. 

    The other injured employee was hospitalized, and her name wasn’t being released by police Thursday night. Roberts also faces charges of attempted first degree murder with a firearm. Police said the investigation is ongoing.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Air Force band traveling and performing to celebrate America’s 250th birthday

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — The United States Air Force Band of the West is traveling to Tampa. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The band is performing five times in western Florida between Jan. 11 and Jan. 15

    • The band will perform in Tampa on Jan. 15th at the Tampa Convention Center 

    • Clearwater native Ross Hussong is proud to continue his music career as a member of the Air Force  


    They performed in Bradenton on Wednesday night and are performing in Tampa Thursday night.

    The band is made up of talented service members, including Clearwater native Ross Hussong, who has been serving in the Air Force for more than three years. 

    His love for music, and specifically drums, began not only at a young age, but from a popular franchise.

    “I was a huge Star Wars nerd,” he said. “I had lightsabers, and I started drumming with toy lightsabers to the Imperial March, and my parents got so annoyed with it, they were just like, we got to get him some actual drumsticks.” 

    Studying music in high school and through college, Hussong said he didn’t know that playing in a band for the Air Force could be an option. 

    When the opportunity arose, he didn’t hesitate.

    “To do something like this is already so rare, but to be able to do it and wear the uniform, it’s really a distinct honor that I never thought I would have,” he said.  

    Commander and Conductor David Regner said this tour takes on extra significance as it’s to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. 

    Thursday night’s performance will be the fifth Florida performance in five days.

    David said they’re looking forward to connecting with all who come. 

    “There are over 200 different career fields and jobs that someone can do in the Air Force,” he said. “Surely if we can do what we love as musicians and still serve our country, for anyone who also feels that they need to serve, there’s certainly a place for them in the Air Force.” 

    The band will perform at the Tampa Convention Center on Thursday night at 9:15 p.m.

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Manatee County resident voices concern about trash pickup

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — As trash piles up, at least one Manatee County resident is raising a stink.

    The county’s Big Bin Advantage program was meant to save the Solid Waste Department time and resources. It provided larger bins, but decreased the frequency of trash pickup

    What You Need To Know

    • The Big Bin Advantage program gave residents 96 gallon bins but only once a week trash pick ups causing frustration, with one resident saying she has overflowing bins and no where to put it
    • The county hosted its first two community cleanup events last weekend as part of the county’s Big Bin Advantage program contract
    • A representative from Manatee County Solid Waste said more than 1,000 cars dropped off more than 100 tons of material during the cleanup

    • The next community clean up event will be in April

    But, according to Amanda Vouglas, that formula is not working.  

    “We have so much trash generated that the trash can is overflowing,” she said.

    Vouglas lives in Parrish in a household of four people and says trash accumulates quickly.

    “By the time Friday comes around, I’m sure we’ll have, like, an extra three or four more bags,” she said of her trash pickup day.

    When the Big Bin Advantage program started in Manatee County last October, it came with a bigger bin — 96 gallons — but pickup was scaled back to once a week.

    Vouglas said the worst experience was this past Christmas, when it took two weeks to get rid of their trash.

    “Every week we put a little bit more in, a little bit more in, and then we sent some with my daughter to put in her trash at home, because it’s just her and her boyfriend,” she said.

    When Vouglas’ trash starts piling up, she said it becomes a problem, because the haulers won’t take trash that isn’t in the bin. She said she relies on friends and family to help get rid of it.

    Jim Renneberg with Manatee County Solid Waste said residents do have other options.

    “One option is to contact the county, and we can coordinate a bulk pickup,” he said. “There is a fee associated with that. For those that would prefer not to take that approach, we have the community cleanup event.”

    The county hosted its first two community cleanup events last weekend. Renneberg said more than 1,000 cars dropped off more than 100 tons of material. He said the county expects to host more events moving forward and hopes they will help prevent illegal dumping.

    “Looking at December compared to previous years, there’s a slight increase, but our team is quick to respond to that,” he said.

    According to the Manatee County Solid Waste Department’s website, residents also have the option to pay a $13.32 monthly fee to receive a second trash bin.

    But Vouglas said less frequent trash pickups create a health concern.

    “It’s sat in my garage,” she said. “Every time we opened up the door to the house — the smell, the heat in the garage. Florida. You know, it’s not really sanitary.”

    She hopes the county will return to twice-a-week trash pickup.

    The next community cleanup event will be in April. The county plans to host the events throughout the year..

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    Julia Hazel

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  • 2026 events honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day around Tampa Bay

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    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa


    PUBLISHED 12:33 PM ET Jan. 14, 2026
    PUBLISHED 12:33 PM EST Jan. 14, 2026

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Students with intellectual disabilities thrive with Project EDGE class at MTC

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — At Manatee Technical College, there’s a program called Project EDGE that teaches students with intellectual disabilities work skills to increase their independence.

    What You Need To Know

    • It teaches students skills to become more independent

    • Justin’s class graduates in April, and Manatee Technical College said they plan to reapply for the grant so the program can continue

    Inside the classroom, Justin Torres is making significant academic progress.

    “It’s been really great. I have learned a lot in this class,” he said.

    Torres is part of the Project EDGE program at Manatee Technical College. EDGE stands for Empower, Develop, Grow, and Educate. The program is designed for students with intellectual disabilities. Torres has autism.

    “It’s like getting distracted really easily. It’s really hard to keep in one place,” he said. “It’s really been a struggle, but I’ve gone through it and I’m here.”

    The 900-hour class began last August. It teaches students skills to become more independent, which is a goal for Torres.

    “It’ll make me live an independent life like I want to,” he said. “I want to work every day so I can get my own house, start a family, protect my family. That’s my goal.”

    Carrie Walden is the instructor for Project EDGE. She says the program first started in 2024 thanks to a $1.2 million grant. All the graduates from the first year either moved on to MTC’s main campus, other colleges, or found jobs.

    “We work on resumes, interview skills, what to wear to an interview, and what questions might be asked,” she said. “We do a lot of customer service training and how to act when we’re at a job.”

    While Torres already has a job at Culver’s, he has bigger plans for his career.

    “Right now, I’m focused on being a barber,” he said.

    With Project EDGE, he is one step closer to reaching his full potential.

    Torres’ class graduates in April, and Manatee Technical College tells us they plan to reapply for the grant so the program can continue.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Lakewood Ranch High School starts career corner inside library

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Lakewood Ranch High School is rolling out the welcome mat for future graduates.

    The school unveiled its new College and Career Center last fall, designed to help students learn more about what comes after high school.

    What You Need To Know

    • This space is filled with job opportunities, college brochures and scholarship information from across the country
    • Staff say principals from other schools have also visited to get inspiration for what they could do at their own campuses

    When it comes to making big decisions, sometimes a little help goes a long way.

    “I’m pretty excited. I mean, if I make it — I don’t know for sure yet — but if I do make it, then I’ll be super, super excited.”

    Ryan Johnson is a senior at Lakewood Ranch High School.

    When it came to choosing which college to apply to, it seemed like a no-brainer.

    “I really wanted to go to the Gators because my grandpa was a Gator, and my mom also went there as well.”

    But he wanted to make sure it was the right choice.

    And the new Career Corner inside Lakewood Ranch High School’s library helped confirm his decision.

    “I mean, there are so many colleges you can choose from and browse through, so I think that’s what helped me choose the Gators.”

    This space is filled with job opportunities, college brochures and scholarship information from across the country.

    “Some people want to learn more about technical colleges in the area, and some want to jump right into a job after school. So all the different aspects of the career center really cater to all types of people.”

    It’s a resource that 12 students helped create alongside the school’s college and career advisor, Vito Bavaro.

    “When I took over this job two years ago, my vision was to create a place where students could come in and find jobs, applications and scholarships all in one spot.”

    He says principals from other schools have also visited to get inspiration for what they could do at their own campuses.

    “And we’ve had a lot of parents say, ‘Wow, we didn’t have this when I was in high school.’ So I thought if we could put all this stuff out here, the kids will come. If you build it, they will come.

    And students have come in since the center opened, giving the seniors who created it a chance to leave a lasting legacy.

    “I think more students will be able to explore all the different colleges. There’s MTC, all the way up to Division 1 schools, so I think they can find whatever suits them.”

    It’s a one-stop shop for students to find their path forward after high school graduation.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County turning trash into energy with Waste to Worth project

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — In Manatee County, your trash may soon be powering more than just the landfill.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County plans to turn waste into energy through the Renewable Natural Gas From Waste to Worth project.

    • The county has partnered with other companies to make it happen.

    • The county hopes to have the project finished by July 2027.


    The county is moving forward with a project that turns everyday waste into clean energy — and it could change how we think about garbage.

    It’s called the Renewable Natural Gas From Waste to Worth project.

    There’s an old saying: “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

    And at the Manatee County landfill, Utilities Director Patrick Shea said he sees potential.

    He took us to the top of the landfill.

    “Every year, as we add more garbage and start to top it off with soil and earth material, we install all these wells. They’re natural gas wells,” he said.

    The wells sticking out of the ground are holding methane gas created by trash.

    “So about 75 percent of the methane is flared, or burned, at this flare station. The other 25 percent is used to power the biosolids dryer,” he said.

    Now, he says the county has an opportunity to profit from that gas by turning waste into energy through the Renewable Natural Gas From Waste to Worth project.

    The county has partnered with other companies to make it happen.

    “There is a financial incentive to it,” Shea said. “It’ll generate between a guaranteed $850,000 a year, give or take, and a maximum of $1.7 million a year in revenue for the utility department. It’ll be a landfill asset, and it’ll generate clean, renewable natural gas right here in Manatee County.”

    This is where they plan to build a plant to process and clean the methane gas. Construction is expected to start in six months.

    “It takes the impurities out and makes it pipeline quality. You could run your gas stove with it,” he said.

    Tina Saldana is the communications coordinator for Manatee County Utilities.

    She said they’ve been working on the project for about two years.

    “With the Waste to Worth renewable natural gas project, we’re taking methane from the landfill, cleaning it, and using it as a natural gas resource. Right now, some of it helps power our biosolids dryer, but this allows us to use our full capacity instead of letting gas go unused,” she said.

    Shea said that once the project is complete, the gas will be added to the natural gas pipeline.

    “The gas in the pipeline right now is what people use to heat their pools or run appliances in their homes. This facility will create that same type of natural gas,” he said.

    He said the mission is not only to create renewable energy but also to profit from what’s already at the landfill.

    The county hopes to have the project finished by July 2027.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Two Largo residents arrested for animal creulty

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Largo police have arrested two people on felony animal cruelty charges after 11 sick dogs — including nine puppies — were abandoned in a park.

    What You Need To Know

    • Today Largo police have arrested two people on felony animal cruelty charges after 11 sick dogs — including nine puppies — were abandoned in a park

    • McKnight owns Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue. All the dogs were brought to the rescue after they were found on December 19
    • McKnight says a couple of days later, another puppy they named Frosty was brought in, he later died

    • The two suspects arrested by Largo police each face 12 counts of felony animal cruelty and could face additional charges

    Largo police say they have arrested two people on felony animal cruelty charges after 11 sick dogs — including nine puppies — were abandoned in a park.

    The dogs were found at Taylor Park on December 19.

    Jamie McKnight owns Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue. All the dogs were brought to the rescue after they were found on December 19. McKnight says a couple of days later, another puppy they named Frosty was brought in. He later died.

    “That was a huge heartbreak,” she said.

    All the dogs had parvovirus.

    Today, Largo police arrested 42-year-old Mary Gamble and 43-year-old Fred Gamble. Officers say they were illegally breeding the dogs and knew some were sick.

    The arrests come just one day after the database under Dexter’s Law went into effect. It is a statewide animal abuser database. Under Dexter’s Law, people can remain in the database for up to 10 years.

    Rescue centers like Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue say the database is a vital part of the law.

    “With Dexter’s Law, I’m hoping it’s going to make an example out of them and be the first huge case to really start to push for stricter consequences,” McKnight said.

    The two suspects arrested by Largo police each face 12 counts of felony animal cruelty and could face additional charges.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • The Anna Maria City Pier expected to be open to public by fall of 2026

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — After months of work, the Anna Maria City Pier is showing signs of progress.

    Visitors and residents are starting to see poles sticking out of the water where the boardwalk once was.

    Part of the pier was washed away during the 2024 hurricanes.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Repairs are underway at The Anna Maria City Pier….that work just started in November

    •  The pier is expected to be open to the public fall of 2026.

    Cruising along on Anna Maria Island is how Alex Lucero likes to get around.

    “What is it like to work in paradise? I mean, it’s pretty great,” she said.

    It’s also how a lot of visitors like to get around too.

    Alex handles booking rentals like bikes, golf carts, kayaks, and paddleboards at Beach Bums Island Attitude.

    “I get to work with people who are on vacation,” she said.

    She added business is going well since the hurricanes, despite the island being left without one of its main tourist attractions — the Anna Maria City Pier.

    City officials say they are making progress with pier repairs. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Lucero said the pier is a big draw, and the damage has had an impact.

    “Beforehand, the ferry used to make a stop there, so people would come over and rent bikes from us and come by our store. It’s going to be so exciting for people to come back,” she said.

    City officials say they are making progress with pier repairs.

    The white poles sticking out of the water are cement pilings that will later form the walkway.

    Crews recently started installing them.

    “The walkway calls for 130 pilings to be put in, and they are at about number 90 right now,” he said.

    Mark Short, the mayor of the city of Anna Maria, said once all the pilings are complete, crews can move on to the next phase of rebuilding the walkway.

    The pier is expected to be open to the public in the fall of 2026. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    The pier is expected to be open to the public in the fall of 2026. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    However, there is still more work to be done on the building at the end of the pier.

    “There are repairs required to the buildings at the end, and those are in the plans. We’ll be doing those a little later,” he said.

    In the meantime, nearby businesses will continue to push ahead,

    looking forward to the day when repairs are complete.

    “I definitely hope we’re going to be super busy. I hope to see all of our bikes off the property. I hope to be sold out of everything,” she said.

    The mayor says the city anticipates the Anna Maria City Pier project will be complete and open to the public by fall of 2026.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • New housing program to help youth who have aged out of the foster care system

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A new housing project is taking shape with a mission beyond bricks and mortar.

    A local nonprofit has officially broken ground on a development designed to support young adults aging out of the foster care system.

    The project aims to provide not just housing, but stability and a pathway to independence.

    What You Need To Know

    • Harbor 58 is a nonprofit aimed at helping youth who aged out of foster care 

    • The organization held a ground breaking ceremony last month for its new housing program, which includes six duplexes housing 12 people and a community center
    • The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road and organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027

    This is a new environment for Airanna Gibbons. But there’s one thing that’s always helped her during times of uncertainty: coloring.

    “It relaxes me and makes me less nervous,” she said.

    For Gibbons, it’s been a coping mechanism as she’s been in and out of foster care since she was four years old.

    “I ended up getting taken away from my biological parents a couple days before my birthday, and it was very stressful. There’s a lot of emotions, but I ended up moving from home to home, and none of them really enjoyed me or liked me. And so, I ended up going through about seven or eight homes before I ended up getting adopted,” she said.

    Around the age of 14, Gibbons said her life changed again.

    “I ended up having some problems, and I ended up going into a mental hospital. My adoptive parents decided that they didn’t want me. Then I ended up going into a group home,” she said.

    Now, the 19-year-old is in a new home.

    It’s an 18-month-long housing program with the nonprofit Harbor 58.

    “I guess it was finally home, I guess, if that makes sense. So, yeah,” she said.

    The mission of Harbor 58 is to help young people aging out of foster care by providing resources and support.

    In Gibbons’ case, that includes the opportunity to learn how to live more independently with the help of a career coach and other resources.

    The goal is for participants to eventually be able to live on their own.

    Alisha Pavacich is the program director.

    “Manatee County has a lot of kids that are in foster care and several that age out every single year. And there’s no real space for those kids to step into,” she said.

    The organization recently broke ground on its new housing complex, which will include six duplexes housing 12 people in total, along with a community center.

    “The statistics for youth aging out of foster care are not great. A lot of kids end up in jail, not graduating high school, or unfortunately, being trafficked. We just want to change that narrative and give them a more supportive and brighter future,” she said.

    Gibbons said she feels included and comfortable in this space. So much so, she said she’s looking forward to one day publishing a children’s book she wrote, inspired by her life experiences, and working towards becoming a child advocate.

    The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road.

    Organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027.

    Currently, the organization is housing three people and hope to expand that to more when the new facility opens in 2027.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Cold weather shelters opening across Tampa area

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Residents waking up across the Tampa Bay area are feeling a noticeable chill in the air, and forecasters say temperatures will remain cold throughout the day.

    Wind chills are expected to drop into the 20s and 30s overnight, prompting local governments to activate cold weather shelters for people in need.

    Several counties are moving quickly to prepare as the cold snap settles in.

    Pinellas County and Hernando County plan to open their cold weather shelters tonight.


    Pasco County shelters will be open both tonight and on New Year’s Eve. Hillsborough County is also expected to activate its shelters this afternoon, which typically occurs when temperatures are forecast to fall below 40 degrees.

    Citrus County has already opened its shelters, activating them overnight. Officials say shelters there will remain open through at least Thursday, as temperatures are expected to dip close to freezing tonight and again on Wednesday.

    Kristy Jocelyn, executive director of Basic United, which operates the cold weather shelter in Citrus County, said staffing has been a challenge due to the New Year’s holiday and the extended cold stretch.

    “I’ve just kind of been dealing with one night at a time,” Jocelyn said. “We still need overnight volunteers for the rest of the week. If we don’t have them, we technically can’t open. We’ve got tonight covered with some last-minute people coming in, and hopefully they’ll be able to return another night this week.”

    Emergency planners are also preparing for increased demand. Once Hillsborough County officially activates its shelters, Metropolitan Ministries will provide a limited number of hotel vouchers if shelter space fills up in the Tampa area. Those vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    For more information on cold weather shelters in your area, visit these websites based on where you live:

    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY 

    Hillsborough County is partnering with the following organizations to provide limited-capacity cold weather shelters for adults. All shelters will take in guests from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 30, unless they reach capacity prior to that time.

    Hyde Park United Methodist Church (preferred media location)
    500 W. Platt St., Tampa, FL 33606

    Tampa Bay Mission of Hope
    110 S. Parsons Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511

    The Portico
    1001 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33602

    Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park
    107 S. Oregon Ave., Tampa, FL 33606

    Amazing Love Ministries
    3304 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL 33605

    Greater New Hope Church Anointed Ministries
    2104 Mud Lake Rd. Plant City, FL 33566

    All congregate shelters are reserved for adults only. Metropolitan Ministries is supplying a limited number of motel vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis for families with minor children. Pre-registration is required for motel vouchers by calling (813) 209-1176. Phone lines will be open Tuesday, Dec. 30, until 5 p.m. or until they run out of vouchers.

    PINELLAS COUNTY

    Cold night shelters in Pinellas County will be open Tuesday night, Dec. 30, the Homeless Leadership Alliance has announced. The shelters will be open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

    Shelter guests are accepted until the shelter is full. All sites provide a warm and safe place to sleep, and many sites also serve a meal. Shelters are activated when the National Weather Service expects the “feels like” temperature to hit 40 degrees or below across the county between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

    Tarpon Springs

    • Boys and Girls Club of Tarpon Springs
      • Address: 111 W Lime Street, Tarpon Springs

    Clearwater

    • First United Methodist Church of Clearwater
      • Address: 411 Turner Street, Clearwater

    Pinellas Park

    • Boys & Girls Club of Pinellas Park
      • 7790 61st St. N, Pinellas Park

    St. Petersburg

    • Unitarian Universalist Church
      • 100 Mirror Lake Drive N, St. Petersburg
      • Note: This location requires the use of stairs.
      • PSTA Routes #9, #20, #24, SunRunner
    • Salvation Army
      • Address: 1400 4th Street South, St. Petersburg

    Families with children will be placed in family shelters on cold nights (if space is available). Families should call 2-1-1, First Contact, for information about family shelters.

    The Homeless Leadership Alliance is in need of volunteers for this and future activations. Those interested in volunteering should visit pinellashomeless.org/become-a-volunteer to learn more.

    PASCO COUNTY 

    As extremely cold air remains in our area, Pasco County is opening a Cold Weather Shelter on both sides of the county Tuesday, December 30 and Wednesday, December 31.

    Anyone in need of a warm place to spend the night can head to either shelter.  The shelters will open at 6 p.m. each day and close at 10 a.m. the following day.

    Pasco County Cold Weather Shelters:

    WHEN:

    • Tuesday, December 30 & Wednesday, December 31 6 p.m. – 10 a.m. each day 

    WHERE:

    The extreme cold expected could be dangerous to anyone who will be outside for long periods of time.  Children, the elderly and pets are especially vulnerable to the cold, and extra care should be taken to protect them.

    CITRUS COUNTY 

    The Citrus County Cold Weather Shelter will be open Monday to Thursday nights due to freezing temperatures, and it urgently needs volunteers and donations.

    Anyone needing warmth is welcome, and free transportation is available through Citrus County Transit.

    The address is Nature Coast Church, 5113 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa.

    Donations can be brought to Nature Coast Church starting Monday at 5 p.m.

    HERNANDO COUNTY 

    In response to forecasted low temperatures, Hernando County Emergency Management, in partnership with the City of Brooksville, is opening a Warming Center to provide warmth and comfort to those in need.

    The Warming Center will be located at the Enrichment Center, located at 800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601, and will open Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 8:00PM through 8:00AM Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The center will remain open through the night to ensure that community members have a safe place to stay warm.

    Important Information:

    ·         The Warming Center will not include meals or cots.

    ·         Pets are not allowed in the Warming Center.

    Steps to Prepare for Cold Weather:

    ·         Residents should stay indoors, bring pets inside and cover or move plants that are sensitive to cold indoors. Do not leave pets outside in the cold weather.

    ·         Consider running pool pumps overnight during freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

    ·         Residents are encouraged to monitor to local media outlets or the National Weather Service at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/ for current weather information. The Emergency Operations Center is not activated at this time.

    R   Recommended Actions:

    ·         Take this opportunity to refresh your emergency supply kit. For more information, visit http://www.HernandoCounty.us/EM

    ·         Register for automated severe weather notifications at www.AlertHernando.org

    POLK COUNTY

    Talbot House Ministries is offering emergency service shelter located at 814 North Kentucky Ave, 33801.

    Guests are welcome during the holiday season from 4 p.m. until 5 p.m., with beds running on a first come first serve basis until 6 a.m. the following day.

    Meals and a shower will also be provided. 

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    Jason Lanning

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