Selby Gardens begins upgrades; will soon be first fully-solar botanical garden
They're known for their beautiful orchids. More than 6,000 fill the property at Selby Gardens in downtown Sarasota. And now upgrades that will bring the gardens into the future are getting underway.
Roy Leep, pioneering WTVT meteorologist, passes away
Longtime WTVT chief meteorologist Roy Leep, who helped pioneer the use of radar to detect storms and warn viewers, passed away Tuesday at the age of 88.
Hurricane Hunters ready to take off from Lakeland, gather invaluable data for Atlantic season
Every hurricane season, a group of brave pilots and scientists heads into storms to collect data needed to create forecasts and keep people safe – and it all starts from Lakeland Linder International Airport.
History, heritage alive and well in Tarpon Springs
The city of Tarpon Springs owes much of its existence to the sponges and the Greek divers who first arrived to harvest them in the early 1900s. Their legacy lives on today.
Caladesi Island State Park ranks as one of the top 10 U.S. beaches – again
Once again, Caladesi Island State Park lands in the top 10 beaches of America thanks to its soft sand and clear waters.
Florists hit hard during pandemic see demand picking up as engaged couples reschedule weddings
There were months when florists weren't touching any flowers as weddings were canceled, postponed, or rescheduled during the pandemic. Now, it's back to business.
‘I don’t make excuses for myself’: Rare diagnosis inspires Riverview grad to become a pediatric nurse
It's been a long road for Ashley Kersey and it's about to take an exciting turn as she graduates from Riverview High. Her four years including hospital visits and homework, but it didn't stop her from reaching her goals.
Sweet success: Sisters upgrade from ice cream truck to shop
After two years of making and selling small-batch ice cream out of a truck, two sisters fulfilled their dream of opening a brick-and-mortar ice cream shop earlier this year.
Unwelcome gator hangs out under Haines City woman’s carport
For one Haines City resident, alligators are a common sight in her neighborhood, but one encounter was stranger than usual.
Anna Maria Island named one of Florida’s ‘most charming small towns’
Anna Maria Island is known for its beautiful white beaches, and both residents and visitors know it. Now, the town was recently named as one of Florida's 'most charming small towns.'
Debate continues over what type of whale was spotted off Pass-A-Grill Beach
Scientists are taking a closer look at what appears to be a whale. One frame, in particular, is interesting to scientists, showing what appears to be a white patch around the eye. That’s why some believe it was an orca, but they are not able to say with 100% certainty.
Captiva's 'Bubble Room' still captivates with unique décor
When the original owners first opened the restaurant, they didn’t have the money to decorate the restaurant, so they hung up Christmas lights and old pictures they had laying around their house. Forty-two years later, the theme has stuck.
Seafood served up fresh at Bartow's local fishing hole
Catfish Country in Bartow has been in owner William Houvardas’ family for 22 years. He says the restaurant survives on loyal locals, as well as customers from the surrounding area.
Marvel at Miami's most sought-after mac and cheese
This restaurant is challenging everything you thought you knew about America’s favorite comfort food.
‘Sneaky’ school of stingrays swims around oblivious fisherman off St. Pete Beach
An angler fishing off a St. Petersburg Beach was completely unaware that a school of cownose rays, known as a “fever,” were swimming around him
‘It’s the best job’: First female deputy on Manatee County SWAT team proves there are no boundaries
Deputy Amy Holmes made history as the first female and youngest member of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office SWAT team, and she hopes her story inspires others.