Travel and Tourism

SeaWorld Orlando Celebrates a Historic Milestone in Conservation with the World’s Second Birth in Human Care of Critically Endangered Sawfish Pups

Published

2 years ago

October 17, 2023

ORLANDO, Fla. – SeaWorld Orlando proudly announces the birth of three smalltooth sawfish pups, marking a historic achievement in global conservation for this endangered species as the only aquarium in the United States showcasing smalltooth sawfish and the second worldwide to have a successful birth. The newborns include two females and one male, born on July 11, 2023, and each measured approximately two feet in length. Following their birth, the pups underwent a comprehensive examination, and continue to receive regular check-ups to ensure their sustained health and expected developmental progress. This milestone underscores SeaWorld’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and saving species from extinction.

Dr. Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando said, “The birth of smalltooth sawfish at SeaWorld Orlando marks a significant achievement, as we become the second aquarium globally to have this success. This is an extraordinary success in the realm of sawfish conservation, and it is our privilege to provide world-class care for this critically endangered species. The birth of these smalltooth pups allows for a greater understanding of how to turn the tide on the declining sawfish populations and spread the message of education to our millions of guests that visit each year.” “The birth of smalltooth sawfish in captivity for just the second time, and the first within the United States, is historic. These young sawfish will provide a great opportunity for researchers and aquarists to learn more about juvenile growth and development. But equally important, this will be a chance for the public to witness and develop an understanding of these majestic creatures. It is through these opportunities that greater conservation can be achieved”, says Adam Brame, Sawfish Recovery Coordinator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

Despite their shark-like appearance, smalltooth sawfish are categorized as rays, showcasing gills and mouths on their undersides. Named for their saw-like rostrum, these creatures inhabit tropical seas and estuaries in the Atlantic Ocean, favoring shallow coastal waters, and occasionally venturing into freshwater river systems, notably in Florida’s coastal areas. Born fully developed at a length of approximately 2 feet, the characteristic sawfish teeth are covered by a thick material that dissolves within a few days/weeks. This adaptation protects both the mother and other siblings while in utero. While these younglings continue their growth, they’ll receive meticulous care from SeaWorld’s Aquarium Team at the Aquarium Health Center, remaining behind the scenes as they grow and develop under world-class supervision.

Smalltooth Sawfish at SeaWorld Orlando

Two adult smalltooth sawfish reside at SeaWorld Orlando and have been housed at SeaWorld parks since the 1980s. These sawfish currently reside in the 700,000-gallon Shark Encounter main habitat and boast the title of the largest fish in the park. In late May, SeaWorld Orlando’s dedicated aquarist and veterinary teams discovered through ultrasound that the female sawfish was pregnant. Recognizing the significance of this development, the female sawfish was relocated to the Aquarium Health Center, an environment where she was able to be closely monitored through the birth of the pups. SeaWorld Orlando is honored to have facilitated the pregnancy and birth in its indoor aquarium, with generated lighting and pristine saltwater conditions. This showcases the unwavering dedication of the aquarium team in providing the best care to aquatic animals, while encouraging marine life conservation and education.

Conservation of Sawfish

Smalltooth sawfish are critically endangered, being the first marine fish to be protected by the Endangered Species Act twenty years ago, in 2003, following a significant decline in population from habitat loss and unintended capture by fishers. This is the only species of sawfish to be found in United States waters, making the birth of the three pups even more meaningful. Entities that house sawfish, including SeaWorld Orlando, have a serious interest in gaining a greater understanding of all sawfish reproduction to strengthen their impact in helping the declining population. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has created the Sawfish Species Survival Plan to help facilitate the future reproductive success of these animals.

SeaWorld is committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of conservationists through its park experiences. It is also committed to animal conservation outside its parks through partnerships and the SeaWorld Conservation Fund that has donated more than $20 million to research conservation projects.

Guests visiting the park can also play an important role in conservation. A portion of every visit goes directly toward SeaWorld rescue, rehabilitation, and marine animal conservation efforts. Guests can also donate in the park or online to the SeaWorld Conservation Fund that supports important third-party conservation research.

Related Topics:Sea World Orlando Travel & Tourism

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Travel and Tourism

Avelo Airlines Expands Lakeland Service with New Nonstop Flights to Nashville

Published

2 months ago

March 8, 2025

Willie David

LAKELAND, Fla. (FNN) – Avelo Airlines is soaring to new heights with the launch of its new nonstop route from Lakeland International Airport (LAL) to Nashville International Airport (BNA). Starting today, travelers can enjoy direct flights to Music City twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays. To celebrate the new route, one-way fares start at just $45, available for booking at AveloAir.com.

Convenient & Affordable Air Travel from Central Florida

Avelo Airlines has rapidly expanded its presence in Lakeland, flying nearly 60,000 customers on over 500 flights since its inaugural service. The addition of Nashville marks the airline’s seventh nonstop destination from LAL, joining:

Charlotte / Concord, N.C. (USA)
Boston / Manchester, N.H. (MHT)
New Haven, Conn. (HVN)
Philadelphia / Delaware Valley (ILG)
Rochester, N.Y. (ROC)
San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
Wilmington, N.C. (ILM)

Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing an easy and convenient travel experience. “Our Lakeland base offers Central Floridians easy access to air travel, especially for customers who value the convenience of a small hometown airport. With today’s launch of service to Nashville and our six other nonstop destinations, travelers can enjoy more time and freedom to explore wherever their journey takes them.”

Lakeland Leaders Celebrate Expansion

City officials praised Avelo’s continued investment in Lakeland’s commercial air travel:

Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz: “We’re excited to see Avelo Airlines take off with such success! With strong community support, commercial air travel will continue growing at Lakeland Linder International Airport, and Avelo is leading the way with even more exciting destinations like Nashville.”
Lakeland City Manager Shawn Sherrouse: “Avelo is spreading its wings in Lakeland, and I, like many residents, am thrilled about this new route to Nashville. We look forward to seeing Avelo’s continued growth in our community.”
Lakeland International Airport Director Kris Hallstrand: “We are excited to welcome travelers from Nashville to Lakeland and Polk County, where they can experience all the wonderful attractions and opportunities our region has to offer.”

Boosting Central Florida Tourism & Economy

Avelo’s growing network is a major win for Central Florida’s tourism industry. Visit Central Florida Director of Marketing Mark Jackson highlighted the economic benefits:

Increased tourism brings more revenue to Polk County businesses
Nearly 42,000 jobs in Polk County were supported by tourism last year
For every 159 visitors, one job is created
Tourism savings: Each Polk County household benefits from nearly $1,000 in tax savings

“Thanks to Avelo Airlines, it is easier for travelers from around the country to experience Central Florida. We welcome Nashville to Polk County, where the real Florida magic happens,” Jackson added.

With affordable fares, convenient flight schedules, and easy access to major destinations, Avelo Airlines continues to reshape travel in Central Florida.

_______________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Travel and Tourism

Avelo Airlines Extends Florida Flights to Labor Day 2025 with $49 Fares

Published

5 months ago

November 26, 2024

Willie David

CENTRAL FLORIDA (FNN NEWS) – Avelo Airlines has announced an exciting extension of its Central Florida flight schedule through Labor Day 2025, giving travelers more opportunities to explore top destinations with affordable fares. Customers can now book flights from Lakeland (LAL), Orlando (MCO), and Tampa (TPA) for travel through September 2, 2025.

Travelers can take advantage of one-way fares starting at just $49, making summer vacations or weekend getaways more accessible than ever. Reservations can be made at AveloAir.com.

Statements from Avelo Airlines

“Central Florida – It’s time to start planning summer travel, and we are excited to extend Avelo’s Florida flight schedule through Labor Day 2025,” said Trevor Yealy, Avelo Airlines’ Head of Commercial. “With Avelo’s everyday low fares and industry-leading reliability, now is the perfect time for travelers to get a head start on booking their summer vacations or long-weekend getaways. Avelo offers somewhere for everyone – from award-winning beaches to outdoor adventure destinations, to cultural and entertainment hotspots and more.”

Available Central Florida Routes

From Lakeland International Airport (LAL):

Boston / Manchester, N.H. (MHT)
Charlotte / Concord, N.C. (USA)
Nashville, Tenn. (BNA)
New Haven, Conn. (HVN)
Philadelphia / Wilmington, Del. (ILG)
San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
Rochester, N.Y. (ROC)

From Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tampa International Airport (TPA):

New Haven, Conn. (HVN)
Philadelphia / Wilmington, Del. (ILG)
Wilmington, N.C. (ILM)

Extended Schedules at Other Airports:
Avelo Airlines has also extended its flight schedule through Labor Day 2025 for Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).

What’s Next for Avelo Travelers?

With the extended schedule, travelers can start planning trips to a variety of destinations offering everything from sun-soaked beaches to cultural and entertainment experiences. Avelo’s commitment to low fares and reliable service makes it easier than ever to lock in summer plans well in advance.

FUN FACT: Hello, Avelo!

For those wondering, Avelo is pronounced UH-VELL-O, rhyming with “yellow” or “jello.”

________________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

Travel and Tourism

CFHLA PAC and PC Board of Directors congratulate election night winners in the City of Orlando races, and Florida House District 35 primary race

Published

1 year ago

November 8, 2023

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) PAC and PC Board of Directors congratulated the winners of the City of Orlando races, as well as the primary election winner of the open Florida House of Representatives, District 35.

This includes City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer; Tony Ortiz, City Commissioner, District 2 (unopposed); Patty Sheehan, City Commissioner, District 4; Bakari F. Burns, City Commissioner, District 6; and Erika Booth (R), Florida House of Representatives, District 35.

Each of the winners were endorsed by the CFHLA PAC and PC.

“CFHLA PAC and PC would like to congratulate all of our endorsed candidates, who truly understand the importance of tourism and the positive impacts it has on our community,” said Jay Leonard, General Manager of the Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area, and the Chairman of the CFHLA PAC and PC. “We targeted these elections as the top races for the hospitality industry and we look forward to working with each of these pro-hospitality champions, as we ensure that our region remains the best place to work, play, live and visit.”

Robert Agrusa, President and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association went on to say, “CFHLA looks forward to working with Mayor Dyer and the rest of the Orlando City Commission, as we advance policies that will continue to provide a positive economic impact and support for the employees of the hospitality industry, as well as the entire Central Florida region. Additionally, each of these leaders are willing to face the challenges confronting our community and are focused on providing transportation and workforce housing solutions that will improve the quality of life for all residents of our community.”

Currently a member of the Osceola County School Board, Ms. Booth has now advanced to the General Election that will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association’s mission is to represent the Central Florida Hospitality Industry, by setting the standard of excellence through advocacy, collaboration, education, recognition, and service. As the largest regional lodging association in the United States, CFHLA represents approximately 80 percent of the more than 129,500 hotel rooms in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties, and more than 500 “supplier” organizations that do business with the hospitality and tourism industries.