Instead of toys, kids ask Santa for families' basic needs

Somehow, Santa always seems to know what good boys and girls need at Christmas -- especially when he gets some help from lots of police officers and firefighters.

The secrets behind the sweets: Inside Publix's busy bakery

The next time you dart into your local Publix to scoop up that favorite holiday cookie or cake, here’s exactly what went into making it.

Travel to another world during a visit to the Bishop Planetarium

There's a Bay Area museum that can take visitors millions of miles -- in fact -- light years away. Believe it or not, it can be done in one tank of gas. The Bishop Planetarium in Bradenton offers an out-of-this-world experience.

Algae-filled water that poisoned South Florida dogs now being pumped underground

Ron DeSantis successfully ran for governor on a platform of solving the toxic water crisis. But there are no quick and easy solutions, and scientists say it’s already posing health risks you may not expect.

Reach new heights through flying trapeze lessons at Circus Sarasota

If you’ve ever dreamed of running off to the circus, or you’re just looking for a fun workout, the Circus Sarasota Big Top has the perfect class for you: Flying trapeze classes -- and anyone can try it.

Above Plant Hall's iconic minarets and moons

Everyone recognizes its signature minarets, but there’s more to the University of Tampa’s Plant Hall than the silver moons.

Art lovers can find beautiful masterpieces in downtown St. Pete

Welcome to Beach Drive. There's a lot to see and do on this beautiful stretch of waterfront road in St. Pete, including a stroll for art lovers.

With school lunch legislation, Florida lawmakers weaken protections for fire victims

When state lawmakers passed a bill to promote nutrition in school lunches, voters -- and perhaps some of the legislators -- may not have known the bill also included provisions that weaken protections for fire victims. Families who live in the town of Eastpoint say they are paying for it after a fire disaster wiped out their homes, and they say it could cost state taxpayers much more. 

Drone Zone: Above Tampa's Plant Hall
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Everyone recognizes its iconic minarets, but there?s more to the University of Tampa?s Plant Hall than the silver moons.

Mourning mother's simple gesture moves stranger to tears

A grieving mother is channeling her pain in a remarkable way: Tara Jones does one act of kindness every day in honor of her late son. 

Pinellas residents: Here's what happens to your trash

Once your trash hits the curb it is out of sight, out of mind. However, your garbage doesn’t simply disappear. 

WWII veteran reunited with dog tags 74 years later

An Army veteran, who fought in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, was reunited with an original piece of his identification -- 74 years later. 

Mote Marine places research on full display at public aquarium

During the latest outbreak of red tide, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota has been at the forefront of trying to figure out why it is happening and the extent of the damage. 

The human and financial cost of mandatory sentencing laws

Courts across Florida convict people for drug trafficking who do not sell drugs. Watchdogs, judges, and lawmakers from both parties say it is part of a problem that strains prisons and costs taxpayers. 

Drone Zone: Hunsader Farms
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The Hunsader Farms 27th Pumpkin Festival just wrapped up, but there?s still lots ahead. Next up is the annual Country Christmas celebration in mid December.

Fun workouts -- for everyone from kids to 'ninja warriors'

‘American Ninja Warrior’ championships are usually held in Las Vegas, but you don't have to travel that far to feel like a champion, or even practice like one.  All you need is a tank of gas.

Dance classes at Straz teach more than technique

A talented group of dancers helped FOX 13’s Chip Brewster leap into beginning ballet and tap dancing at the Straz Center Tuesday.