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Crystal River just got interesting. A political newcomer is throwing punches at an incumbent for a seat on City Council, $1.5 million in state money just got locked in for a brand new public safety training center, and the water out past the reef is stacked with scallops and redfish just waiting for you to show up.

That's not even the whole story. There's a new drama teacher stepping into Lecanto High's spotlight, school supply lists just dropped for the 2026-2027 year, and one local spot is serving up gator ribs so good our team is still talking about them.

Grab your coffee and settle in. Twelve stories, three events this week, and the full weather outlook are all waiting below. Let's get into it.

The next challenge for Citrus County's proposed regional Public Safety Training Annex is no longer…
Citrus County Chronicle
Great news for the future of public safety in Citrus County! The proposed regional Public Safety Training Annex is moving forward, with widespread support already secured. This critical facility promises to enhance training for our local first responders right here in our community.
But a new, significant hurdle has emerged. The focus has now shifted to pinning down the precise construction costs. Will the final price tag make or break this vital project for Crystal River and beyond? Don't miss the details on what's next for this essential development.
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Sheriff contract with Crystal River kept intact.
Citrus County Chronicle
Crystal River residents, there's clarity on a key city service. The Sheriff contract, which provides law enforcement to our community, has been officially kept intact. This decision means our current public safety arrangements remain in place for the foreseeable future.
But what exactly led to this outcome? Was there an alternative on the table for our city officials? And how will this agreement continue to shape daily life and safety across Crystal River? Find out the full details.
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Another rainy day in Crystal River... and we found ourselves at Seafood Seller and Cafe.
Hometown Citrus
Even a rainy Crystal River day can lead to delicious discoveries. Yesterday, we ducked into Seafood Seller and Cafe, and what we found on the menu was far from ordinary. Think serious Cajun comfort with a local twist.
Lee fearlessly tackled gator ribs, while another staffer devoured a gator sausage po' boy. We also savored boudin with pepperjack. Were these exotic dishes a Crystal River triumph? Find out which plate earned top marks and why you need to add these to your local must-try list.
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Fun visiting @MertailorsMermaidAquarium with friends after a great lunch at Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters.
Nature Coaster
Ever wonder how to craft a perfect Crystal River afternoon? Some of your neighbors might have just cracked the code. We're hearing whispers about an ideal pairing that combines delicious local eats with one of our most unique attractions.
Imagine a fantastic lunch at Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters, followed by an enchanting visit to Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium. It's the kind of local adventure that keeps people talking. What makes this combination such a hit, and could it be your next weekend plan? Find out what everyone's buzzing about.
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A push to require more traditional recreational space in future residential developments fell short Tuesday.
Citrus County Chronicle
Crystal River's vision for future neighborhoods faced a critical decision last Tuesday. A push to mandate more traditional recreational space within new residential developments ultimately fell short. This means the existing requirements for open space in upcoming construction will remain unchanged.
Were you hoping for more parks and green areas as our community grows? Discover the details of this outcome and understand what it truly means for how Crystal River's newest communities will be designed moving forward.
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Jack Reynolds challenges Mindi Hastings for Seat 2 on Crystal River City Council.
Citrus County Chronicle
Get ready, Crystal River! The race for City Council Seat 2 is officially underway. Incumbent Mindi Hastings now faces a direct challenge from local resident Jack Reynolds, setting the stage for a critical contest that will shape the future of our community.
Reynolds is stepping up to contest Hastings, who currently holds the important Seat 2 position. Every decision made by your City Council impacts daily life here in Crystal River, from local development to community events. What does this challenge mean for the direction of our city? Dive into the full story to learn more about the contenders and this crucial election.
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Plenty of redfish and scallops are waiting to be caught.
Citrus County Chronicle
Crystal River, get your fishing rods and dive flags ready! Plenty of redfish are waiting to bite, and an abundance of scallops are just waiting to be caught in our local waters today. This is your chance for a fresh, incredible haul.
Curious about the best spots to find them? Or what essential gear you'll need to fill your cooler? Don't miss out on this prime opportunity. Get all the details you need to make the absolute most of Crystal River's amazing natural bounty.
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Are you familiar with the term "Movable Feast" from a culinary standpoint?
Friends of the Crystal River State Parks
Are you familiar with a "Movable Feast"? At Crystal River State Parks, it's reversed. The food moves, and the diners stay relatively stationary. You're the food, and the diners are our notorious mosquitoes! Recent rains have brought a booming skeeter season to our parks and trails, turning visitor enjoyment into a battleground.
Marty from the parks has crucial advice to keep those 80 Florida species from feasting on you. Learn what time of day to be extra careful, what to wear, and how staying in sunny, windy spots can make all the difference. Don't let the bugs win! Get the essential tips to reclaim your outdoor fun before you venture out.
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📢 Families: Complete Your FOCUS Account Before Schedules Are Released!
Citrus County School District
Citrus Schools families, your student's schedule for the 2026-2027 school year is coming! Schedules begin releasing next week, but there's one critical step you *must* complete today to see it. You need a FOCUS Parent Portal account and all required annual forms submitted. Don't wait until the last minute.
The first day of school is August 10, and you'll need that schedule. Make sure you use the same email address as your Skyward account when registering. Are you prepared to ensure your student has a seamless start to their academic year? Click to learn exactly what to do!
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🎭 Welcome to Panther Nation, Vanessa Fuller-Brown! 🐾
Lecanto High School
Big news for Lecanto High School and our budding local artists! Vanessa Fuller-Brown just joined Panther Nation as the new Drama Teacher, a vital addition to the school's thriving performing arts program. Her arrival promises a fresh wave of creative energy for students.
Fuller-Brown is deeply committed to fostering spaces where young people can truly connect, collaborate, and build confidence through self-expression. How will her unique vision shape the next generation of performers right here in Crystal River? Find out the full story and what this means for our community.
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A vision is becoming reality!
Citrus County School District
Crystal River's first responders and students are getting a huge boost! This past week, the School Board recognized Representative JJ Grow for securing an initial $1.5 million in state funding. This money kicks off planning for a new Regional Public Safety Training Center right here in Citrus County. Senator Ralph Massullo also played a key role in making it happen.
This state-of-the-art facility won't just train law enforcement, fire rescue, and EMS. It will also expand opportunities for Withlacoochee Technical College students in public safety programs. Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert called it "investing in our entire region." What does this groundbreaking partnership mean for the future of our local safety and the careers of young people?
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🎒 School Supply Lists Are Available!
Citrus County School District
It's officially time to get ready for the 2026-2027 school year! School supply lists for students across Citrus County are now available, meaning you can finally start checking off those back-to-school items. Don't wait until the last minute to track down everything your student needs.
High school families, pay special attention: your students will get specific class supply details directly from teachers during the first week. For everyone else, find your essential lists at citrusschools.org/school-supply-lists-2. What's the one item you always forget, and is it on this year's list?
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Welcome Back CCSD Employees!
Tuesday | August 4, 2026 | 8 AM – 10 AM
Lecanto High School
3810 W Educational Path, Lecanto, FL 34461
Our annual event welcoming back our CCSD admin, support staff and teachers to the new school year. Breakfast and expo.
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Ericsson Notary & Services Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
Tuesday | August 4, 2026 | 4:30 PM
Citrus County Chamber of Commerce
915 N. Suncoast Blvd., Crystal River, FL 34429
Ericsson Notary & Services has officially been approved as a member of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce. Join the Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate this milestone.
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Sutherland Enterprises Chamber Ribbon Cutting
Tuesday | August 4, 2026 | 4:30 PM
Citrus County Chamber of Commerce
915 N. Suncoast Blvd., Crystal River, FL 34429
Join us in welcoming our newest member to the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce.
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