Instead of writing a citation, code enforcement team helps veteran move back into home damaged by fire 

When Hillsborough County’s code enforcement department got a complaint about an abandoned house that caught fire last year, instead of writing a violation, they helped an Air Force veteran and his wife move back in.

'Choose a meal, no questions asked:' Nokomis food truck helps feed community

Tina Russo works to serve up good food along with a side of hope. Right next to her specials board is a board she calls ‘Neighbors helping Neighbors.’ It's filled with tickets of pre-purchased meals for anyone in need. 

Pirate-themed distillery crafts ‘unique spirits for unique souls’

Even though Gasparilla was canceled this year, there’s a distillery in Bradenton that embraces pirate culture and celebrates the scallywags of the seas.

Tour the Loaded Cannon Distillery
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Visitors to the Bradenton distillery can see the mashing process, the fermentation system and the bottling process by taking a tour. Tours are 25 minutes and include samples as well as a commemorative shot glass.

It's all about cars at the SUN 'n FUN Expo Campus
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Charley headed to the SUN 'n FUN Expo Campus in Lakeland for a look at the Carlisle Auctions? Winter Collector Car Auction.

Each pen has a story
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Jason Olsen is the owner of Write Turnz. He makes pens with a flair for history.?

Nostalgic hobby steams ahead as pandemic wears on

Since the coronavirus pandemic began, many companies have taken a hit, but business is booming at HR Trains & Toys in Pinellas Park. The shop is a destination for those who like model railroading or who are intrigued by the idea of it.

More than 4,500 cold-stunned sea turtles rescued from frigid Texas waters

Volunteers in South Texas raced to save roughly 4,500 cold-stunned sea turtles this week threatened by severe winter weather, and SpaceX stepped in to help in the rescue effort.

Big Brothers, Big Sisters program helps high school students graduate, seek higher learning 

Big Brothers, Big Sisters ‘School to Work’ program matches pairs high school students with employees at different organizations to foster a relationship that empowers the teens to graduate and further their education.

Cracker Country showcases practical crafts
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Charley Belcher headed to Cracker County at the Florida State Fairgrounds for a look at Florida's pioneer past and crafts.

‘Florida Farm Finder’ connects consumers to fresh local products

Floridians can now go online and connect with farms locally -- and across the state -- for fresh products through a Facebook page and website called ‘Florida Farm Finder.’

Volunteers help open new doors by teaching Manatee County adults how to read

In Manatee County, one in five adults can't read above the fifth-grade level. A local group is addressing this need. Their quest to help others find reading success is What's Right with Tampa Bay.

Reading gives adults roadmap to success
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In Manatee County, one in five adults can't read above the fifth-grade level. The Manatee Literacy Council?is addressing this need.

Gasparilla parade officially canceled for 2021

There will be no pirate invasion of Tampa this year. The annual Gasparilla parade, already postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now officially canceled for 2021.

Tampa restaurant offers saucy taste of Chicago

Kay, a Chicago native herself, says it’s her unique blend of seasoning and mild sauce that makes her chicken and fish Chicago-style.