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

3 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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Business

Avelo Airlines Expands Lakeland Base with Atlanta, Detroit Flights and Second Aircraft

Published

6 months ago

November 12, 2025

Willie David

LAKELAND, Fla. (FNN) – Avelo Airlines is expanding its footprint at Lakeland International Airport (LAL) with the return of nonstop service to Atlanta (ATL), the launch of new spring training flights to Detroit (DTW), and the addition of a second based aircraft to its growing Central Florida hub.

The expansion follows 18 months of successful operations at Lakeland International and reflects strong community support and Avelo’s commitment to offering convenient and affordable air travel for Central Florida passengers.

Avelo’s new service lineup includes:

Detroit (DTW): Begins February 11, 2026, with twice-weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Atlanta (ATL): Begins February 13, 2026, offering five flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

With the addition of these routes, Avelo will now serve 10 nonstop destinations from its Lakeland base.

Flights will be operated with Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, known for their comfort and reliability. Introductory one-way fares start at $34, and tickets are now available for booking at AveloAir.com.

Avelo’s expanded service to Atlanta will provide travelers with greater flexibility and access to key connecting destinations, while the new Detroit route will cater to spring training visitors and those traveling between Florida and the Midwest.

Food & Drinks

ICON Park Celebrates Florida Residents with Exclusive Dining, Drink, and Attraction Deals

Published

6 months ago

October 23, 2025

Willie David

ICON Park Celebrates Florida Residents with Exclusive Dining, Drink, and Attraction Deals

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – ICON Park is showing love to Florida residents this fall with an array of exclusive savings across its restaurants, bars, and attractions — and Florida National News is spotlighting this vibrant International Drive destination for our foodies and drink lovers. From family outings to date nights, Floridians can savor great food, fun, and entertainment for less — all in one place.

Exclusive Florida Resident Offers

Participating ICON Park venues are offering limited-time perks for residents who present valid Florida identification. From meal specials and drink discounts to attraction savings, the deals vary by location — with some running through November 2025 and others extending into early 2026.

Dining and Drink Highlights

Brother Jimmy’s BBQ – Florida Resident Lunch Special: choose one of five dishes and a beverage for $15, Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m., through Nov. 30.
Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips – Enjoy 15% off food and non-alcoholic beverages with a valid Florida ID. Valid all day, every day.
I Café De Paris – Take 15% off all items through Dec. 31, 2025.
Juan Valdez Café – Mix and Match Combo: 16 oz latte or chai with marble cake or cheese bun for $8.45, through Dec. 31, 2025.
Ole Red Orlando – Florida residents receive 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages daily.
Uncle Julio’s Orlando – Get $5 off your meal with a $20+ purchase, valid daily through Feb. 2026.
The Winery and Tasting Room by Brewlando – Enjoy $5 Tosso Rosé and $5 pints (select choices) Monday–Friday, 3–7 p.m., with valid Florida ID.

Attraction Savings

Museum of Illusions Orlando – Admission $17.99 per person, Monday–Thursday through Nov. 20, 2025.
The Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando & SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium – Get $5 off admission for Florida Resident Tickets purchased online 24 hours in advance.
Orlando Slingshot – Receive $5 off ride admission through Nov. 20, 2025.

A Destination for Locals

“These offers are our way of saying thank you to the community that supports ICON Park year-round,” said Chris Jaskiewicz, CEO of ICON Park. “We’re proud to be a place where locals can relax, celebrate, and make memories — whether it’s grabbing a bite, catching live entertainment, or taking in the view from The Orlando Eye.”

ICON Park continues to be a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors, offering free parking, free admission, and endless options for food, fun, and relaxation in a walkable setting.

For a full list of participating venues and offer details, visit:
ICONParkOrlando.com/deals-tag/florida-resident

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FNN Good News & Reviews | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Travel and Tourism

Avelo Airlines Expands Lakeland Service with New Nonstop Flights to Nashville

Published

1 year 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