ReportWire

Tag: Melissa Eichman

  • Grant limit for home improvements in North Greenwood area increases

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater City Council members recently approved a boost to the North Greenwood CRA Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program.

    What You Need To Know: 

    • The home improvement grant limit in North Greenwood increased to $25,000 from $20,000

    • The grant aims to help residents with rising construction costs

    • Homeowners use the grants for crucial repairs like roofing, plumbing, and HVAC systems


    The new limit is $25,000, up from the previous $20,000.

    “Well, $20,000 might have been a good amount a few years ago,” said Jesus Nino, Executive Director of Clearwater CRA. “But now with construction prices going up, it’s just a little bit more difficult to have something; for instance, a whole roof replaced for $20,000.”

    Homeowners have put grant money toward a variety of repairs and renovations, including: a new roof, windows, replacing heating and air conditioning systems, painting and other home repair safety features.

    Rosemary Gainey has lived in the North Greenwood area for more than 40 years. She received $20,000 in grant money and used it to replace her fence and plumbing.

    “Because the piping was so old … it could just explode anywhere over the house,” Gainey said. “I just think that the more we put into our community, the more the community will thrive and overall, look better. I’m just over the moon, is that what you call it, and I love it.”

    Learn more about the program and view the application form by clicking here.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Clearwater gets national attention as spring tourism season starts

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The spring tourism season has started in the Tampa area.

    From Major League Baseball to college softball, fans and athletes heading to the diamonds are bringing with them welcome exposure and an economic boost to the Bay area.

    While spring training for the MLB is already underway in Pinellas County for the Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays, Clearwater kicked off the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational softball tournament at Eddie C. Moore Complex Thursday.

    “Clearwater’s becoming the diamond capital of the county in the month of February,” said Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector. “Diamond sports, softball and baseball, so ESPN is broadcasting all 40 games on one of their various platforms.”

    Rector is proud the national attention shines the spotlight on Clearwater.

    “The road to the World Series starts in Clearwater,” said Brian Lowack, President and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.

    He says tickets to the tournament were sold through 47 states and three countries. Fans from across the country and around the world will cheer on 16 college softball teams — 10 of them ranked top 25 in the country.

    The Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational runs Feb. 12-15. (Spectrum News/Melissa Eichman)

    “Tens of thousands are going to be here over the course of the next four days. That’s thousands of hotel room nights and ultimately leading towards over $10 million in economic impact,” Lowack said of the impact.

    Lenny’s Restaurant feels that impact, reporting that business more than doubles this time of year. Loraine Bates has been a server at Lenny’s for more than 25 years and says the restaurant will be ready.

    “It’s means we’re going to be fully staffed,” said Bates. “It’s going to be like a Sunday every day of the week. We’re all hyped for it, we’re all looking for it.”

    Visitors working up an appetite while cheering on their favorite teams.

    “If you’re hungry or hung over, come to Lenny’s. We’ll feed you and we’ll take care of you,” said Bates.

    A host city taking care of fans while they take in Tampa Bay’s sunshine and beaches, whether it’s from the stands or while watching on TV.

    The Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational runs Feb. 12-15.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Average age of first-time homebuyers at all-time high

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The National Association of Realtors reports the average age of first-time homebuyers is at an all-time high at age 40. The association also says the share of first-time homebuyers has hit a historic low of 21%.

    Twenty-year-old Christina Copelan is bucking that national trend. She bought her Clearwater home a few months ago when she was 19.

    “It feels really great, like, I am very proud of myself,” said Copelan.

    Graduating from high school at age 15, she said becoming a homeowner was an early goal. She works as a personal assistant for a property manager and a financial services company and started saving soon after graduation.

    “The biggest thing was living at home with my parents. I think because I didn’t have many bills. But yeah, really, really saving and being super frugal,” said Copelan, who was able to close on her home in a couple of years. She and her family are now renovating it themselves.

    “Instead of just buying it and living in it. I get to, you know, put something into it instead of just occupying it,” said Copelan, who enjoys adding her personal touch.

    She is not the norm, according to recent numbers released from the National Association of Realtors.

    The association adds that the all-time high age of 40 for first-time homebuyers can create a trickle-down effect on personal finances.

    “Delayed or denied homeownership until age 40 instead of 30 can mean losing roughly $150,000 in equity on a typical starter home,” said Shannon McGahn, NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer.

    Liane Jamason has been in real estate for 18 years and has responded to the shift.

    “I think it’s because we’re having some affordability problems and also interest rates being a little bit higher may have skewed that number a little bit,” said Jamason.

    The broker owns Corcoran Dwellings in St. Petersburg, and while she acknowledges the national trend, she said that she and her agents are seeing a different trend in local first-time buyers.

    “We’re seeing really closer to low twenties to low thirties here,” said Jamason.

    “I mean it’s a young vibe here and especially in downtown St Pete, so I think people love that and really want to get in while they can.”

    And with a market Jamason describes as steady, buyers of all ages are aiming to get closer to closing on a home of their own.

    “It’s very it’s very cool to tell other people like my age that is possible,” said Copelan, who is also a landlord and rents the other half of her duplex. She hopes to inspire the younger generation of future homeowners.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Clearwater firefighters test new PFAS-free protective gear

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — A fire training session at Clearwater Fire & Rescue this Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month focused on testing new protective gear.

    What You Need To Know

    • Clearwater Fire & Rescue tests new protective gear this Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month

    • Nearly 80% of International Association of Fire Fighters member line-of-duty deaths in 2025 due to occupational cancer

    • Studies reveal protective firefighter gear often contains chemicals linked to cancer

    • Cancer is reportedly the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety


    The International Association of Fire Fighters reports that in 2025, nearly 80% of IAFF member line of duty deaths were due to occupational cancer.

    From exposure to smoke and toxins, to concerns about their own protective gear, the Firefighter Cancer Support Network reports cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety. 

    “Over the years, when I first started, we really did nothing to start to help fight cancer, we used to put on our gear, fight a fire, throw a gear back in the truck, wait for the next fire, and never even worrying about it,” said Lt. Joseph Kraus, a 25-year firefighter veteran. The acting training chief for Clearwater Fire & Rescue says things have changed.

    Decades later, the worry is there. The Firefighter Cancer Support Network reports that cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety. Part of that threat is their own protective gear. Studies reveal protective firefighter gear often contains chemicals linked to cancer, according to the National Institute of Standards & Technology.

    “PFAS is a chemical that we found that actually causes cancer, it’s in most plastics, however; in our bunker gear, it was found that they actually add PFAS to it in the thermal barrier to help protect us,” said Lt. Kraus. “So, the irony is the gear that’s protecting us may be giving us cancer.”

    That’s why Clearwater Fire & Rescue is testing new, safer gear. Driver/operator Logan Chaple put the protective equipment to the heat test for the first time. In two separate fire training scenarios, he wore the current set of protective gear, then the new, PFAS-free gear for comparison.

    “The main difference being that the thermal barrier is different,” said Chaple, describing the PFAS-free gear. “So, we’re trying to test out our frontline gear and this gear to see if there’s a difference in the heat we absorb inside of it.”

    Chaple is also testing to see if there is any difference in the movement of the gear.

    “The gear held up fine,” said Chaple after testing the gear. “I didn’t feel uncomfortable at any point, and I thought it did just fine.”

    Clearwater Fire & Rescue will take additional observations and information to the city administration for consideration.

    Meanwhile, Clearwater Fire officials says cancer prevention has become a priority.

    “We started with a second set of bunker gear, second Nomex hood, we wash our stuff in the extractors every time we come in contact with fire,” said Lt. Kraus. He added new equipment is expected to arrive soon that will help elevate the decontamination process for additional gear.

    In December 2025, the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act was signed. It recognizes firefighter cancer as a line-of-duty death, removes a requirement to pinpoint specific exposure and it extends death and education benefits to survivors. It came on the heels of state legislation in the summer of 2025, expanding protections for firefighters; including requiring purchase of gear free of hazardous materials and the monitoring of first responder health.

    Meanwhile, the firefighters of today continue working to protect their own health and that of future first responders.

    “We work hard to help other people, and we’d be nice to enjoy our lives without the risk of cancer as much as possible,” said Lt. Kraus.

    “You can’t prevent everything, but the more things we can take out, the better,” said Chaple. “And hopefully, the better chance we can all live a long, happy life after retirement.”

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • St. Pete doctor creates program to help neurodivergent thrive

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A new approach to supporting the neurodivergent community focuses on helping people thrive on their own terms.

    Neurodivergent is used to describe people whose brains process information, learn, and behave differently from other people, while it also encompasses conditions like autism, ADHD and dyslexia, among others. 

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Petersburg doctor creates program to help neurodivergent thrive on their own terms

    • Empowerment-focused support provided by a multidisciplinary and holistic team

    • Method promotes developing personal strengths 

    • The official grand opening for Neurodivergent Empowerment Institute was held in December


    Dr. Angela Fisher founded the Neurodivergent Empowerment Institute in St. Petersburg.

    “Most of the community has to get pieces of their treatment from a multitude of different places, and you don’t have to go to a multitude of different places,” said Fisher.

    A multidisciplinary team made up of psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists specializing in music and art, and occupational therapies and a holistic team provides support both in-person and virtually.

    Fisher says the foundation of the program is based on three pillars: validation, acceptance and nurture.

    “We’re looking at validating, yes, you might be unique in some way. That’s OK, it’s not broken,” said Fisher. “Accepting that you might be unique in some way. The nurture aspect is actually learning to be happy with and to nurture ourselves instead of pushing ourselves to be different from what we are.”

    Diagnosed with autism and ADHD, 8-year-old Goldie Lenerz has been receiving support at NEI for about a year.

    Part of Goldie’s support at NEI includes participating in music and art therapy.

    “I like that I kind of get to draw whatever I want,” Goldie said while drawing a cartoon character.

    “We really treat it on an individual basis where we are seeing the child, the adult, whoever it is, their strengths, their unique gifts, what makes them them, and really enhancing that and really starting to empower them to explore their uniqueness,” said recreation therapist Alli Williams.

    “We’ve been working on emotional expression,” said music therapist Abby Hagan.

    Goldie’s parents say they are seeing a difference in their daughter.

    “They’re trying to help her build skills with her unique brain, so she can navigate the world in her own way,” said Rachel Lenerz, Goldie’s mother.

    “To see like a huge turnaround, you know, since treatment started. With her attitude to school or her being able to do homework and get it done in a timely manner and feel confident,” said Goldie’s father, Chris Lenerz.

    That kind of turnaround is the mission of the new institute.

    “I’ve seen people come out of burnout,” said Fisher. “I’ve seen people be able to work where they weren’t able to work before. I’ve seen a lot of children excel in school where they were getting kicked out or having to be homeschooled.”

    An official grand opening for the Neurodivergent Empowerment Institute was held in December.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Meet the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer, Sylvia Marakas

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    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral announced Sylvia Marakas as the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer.

    “It’s a great honor,” said Marakas. “I don’t know the right words to articulate for what it means to myself, to my family, to the community.”

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral announced Sylvia Marakas as the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer
    • The person selected carries a dove in the procession to Spring Bayou and then releases it before the cross dive

    • Marakas said she’s been a member of the choir ministry for over three years

    • Marakas also said that family connection and her faith mean everything to her


    Marakas said she’s been a member of the choir ministry for over three years.

    “I’ve always been involved with music and enjoyed music,” said Marakas. “And my grandmother in the ’50s was actually a member of the choir. We have that connection.”

    Marakas said that family connection and her faith mean everything to her. The cathedral describes the Pinellas County native as a devoted member of church and community.

    Marakas said the church is special to her. She holds memories of attending with her family close.

    “My grandfather would always sit around this area, so anytime I’m in the choir singing, I think of him,” said Marakas pointing to the front pews in the cathedral, missing her grandfather, but knowing he is proud of her today.

    “I was selected for this for a purpose, and I’m so grateful for it,” said Marakas. “And I hope now that I can give back and be a positive reflection for the faith, for Tarpon Springs and for St. Nicholas.”

    One way Marakas is already giving back is by serving on the St. Nicholas Cathedral Restoration Capital Campaign Cabinet and the Oversight and Audit Committee.

    “I’ve seen water coming down and after during bad rains from the columns,” said Marakas, showing a part of the church that has fallen into disrepair. “We are entering a different phase, a new phase sort of this year,” said Marakas. “The church is undergoing a major multi-million dollar restoration.”

    While trying to preserve the church’s past, the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer is also proud to be part of its future.

    “That I can continue to be a representative for the Orthodox faith, as well as the Tarpon community, this community has been very important to my family,” said Marakas.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Fans enjoy sunny pep rally ahead of ReliaQuest Bowl

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Ahead of the ReliaQuest Bowl this week, fans from Vanderbilt University and the University of Iowa cheered on their teams at a Florida-style pep rally on Monday.

    What You Need To Know

    • ReliaQuest Bowl Beach Day was held at Clearwater Beach ahead of the game on New Year’s Eve

    • Fans from Vanderbilt and Iowa cheered on their teams at a Florida-style pep rally

    • The event boosts team spirit and benefits the local economy

    The ReliaQuest Bowl Beach Day at Clearwater Beach was a waterfront celebration, where many fans traded snow for sunshine and sand ahead of the big game.

    “Getting out of the snow, stay where it’s warm,” said Hawkeyes fan, Vicki Olson.

    Iowa Hawkeyes cheerleaders peform on Clearwater Beach. (Spectrum News/Melissa Eichman)

    A member of Vanderbilt’s marching band, Landon Rocker was excited to perform at the event.

    “I have never played on a beach in all of my years being on Drumline,” said Rocker.

    Vanderbilt's marching band performs on Clearwater Beach. (Spectrum News/Melissa Eichman)

    Vanderbilt’s marching band performs on Clearwater Beach. (Spectrum News/Melissa Eichman)

    Bands and cheerleaders from both teams performed at the event and both coaches spoke. Fans also had the opportunity to participate in beach games.

    “It’s all a fun day,” said Olson of the event celebrating the big game.

    Visit St. Pete-Clearwater says the beach party is a great way to boost team spirit and the local economy.

    “This game brings in tens of thousands of fans from outside the area and injects tens of millions of dollars into the entire Tampa Bay community,” said Brian Lowack, President and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater. “Whether it’s the hotels, the bars, the local shops, everybody’s benefitting locally here from this event.”

    An event giving football fans and area businesses something to cheer about.

    The game is Wendesday at noon at Raymond James Stadium.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Necessities top Senior Santas wishlists

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Necessities like shampoo and deodorant top the holiday wishlists of many homebound seniors.

    What You Need To Know

    • Necessities like shampoo and deodorant top the holiday wishlists of many homebound seniors

    • Created by the nonprofit, Better Living for Seniors, Silver Santas relies on donations and volunteers to create custom gift bags

    • They’re delivered to assisted living facilities and distributed to low-income elderly people who are isolated

    Christine Gilpen has been granting wishes as a Silver Santas volunteer for two years. Created by the nonprofit, Better Living for Seniors, Silver Santas relies on donations and volunteers like Gilpen to create custom gift bags. They’re delivered to assisted living facilities and distributed to low-income elderly people who are isolated.

    “I couldn’t imagine growing old and not having someone, it just breaks my heart,” said Gilpen. “So I love doing this, I think it’s really important, I think more of our community members should get involved.”

    More involvement this season is helping a growing need.

    “The need increases, that’s really the biggest difference is that the need unfortunately doesn’t seem to decrease,” said Bob Dorian, Committee Chair for Silver Santas.

    That need is for necessities. 

    “More and more seniors were asking for basic supplies,” said Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, which is affiliated with Better Living for Seniors.

    A special delivery to the Silver Santas warehouse in Clearwater recently supplied some of those basics.

    “We’ve got toothpaste, deodorant,” showed Winter as she explained how the donation is helping with demand.

    “We are so fortunate that we received a grant from the Pinellas Community Foundation to buy $6,000 worth of toiletry items for homebound seniors who don’t have them.”

    “We’ll be able to service another 200 seniors because of that grant,” said Dorian.

    Clothing is also added to those toiletry bags.

    “This is the least that we can do, we have to take care of those who have taken care of us our entire lives,” said Winter.

    And volunteers are taking good care checking off wishlists not filled with fancy requests but the bare essentials.

    “When they ask for them, I’m so happy to fill them because they are getting what they need through us,” said Gilpen.

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  • New housing assistance for Pinellas County residents affected by Helene, Milton

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas County homeowners affected Hurricanes Helene and Milton have a new place to turn for help. The Homeless Empowerment Program is offering storm recovery housing assistance.

    What You Need To Know

    • Storm recovery housing assistance being offered by Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP)

    • HEP says qualified applicants will receive financial literacy courses and be assigned an HEP housing navigator

    • To learn if you qualify, contact HEP at HurricaneRelief@HEPempowers.org or call: (727) 442-9041 extension 167


    “It’s $100,000 that goes towards anyone who is trying to recover from storm damage, is displaced because of the storm, maybe needs rental assistance or deposit assistance,” said Tawny Swain Castle, vice president of clinical services with HEP.

    A donor remaining anonymous multiplied that relief amount.

    “They matched another $100,000 on top of that, so we have $200,000,” Swain Castle said. “We were going to serve 25 people, and now we can serve 50 people.”

    United States Air Force veteran Troy Corbin was one of the first recipients.

    “I’m very grateful for that,” said Corbin, whose Largo home was damaged during the storms last year.

    “I had the ceiling collapse, unfortunately, but I fixed that,” said Corbin.

    From roof and fence damage to a screen porch blown in, Corbin has already completed some repairs. But he said there are thousands of dollars left in projects to finish and limited funds to do them.

    “See how bad it is, it won’t open. It’s warped,” Corbin said, showing us the door to his garage that houses a piece of history.

    “This is a US Army 1953 M37 cargo truck from the Korean War,” said Corbin, who is also part of the Florida Military Vehicle Preservation Association.

    Repairs made at his home will help get him one step closer to finishing projects to protect his personal property and preserve a piece of history, all while preparing for future storms.

    “I’m very thankful that this money is coming,” said Corbin.

    Maximum individual distribution amounts are $4,000.

    HEP says qualified applicants will receive financial literacy courses and be assigned an HEP housing navigator, who will follow-up to see how things are going with repairs, offer resources and answer questions.

    “We really want to embrace the community,” said Swain Castle. “We watched the trauma from the storms last year, and it really means a lot for us to be able to help those in the community.”

    To learn if you qualify, contact HEP at HurricaneRelief@HEPempowers.org or call: (727) 442-9041 extension 167.

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  • Young brothers support one another through each others’ health scares

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Nolan Revels passes time in his football-themed hospital room playing football video games.

    The 10-year-old’s older brother, Reed, is also a sports fan, practicing his throw with a target toss game in the room.

    “They’re their own team, really. It’s very cool to watch,” said their mother, Megan Revels.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nolan Revels, 10, has a rare genetic mutation for bone marrow cancer

    • His brother, Reed, was first diagnosed with the cancer and went through chemotherapy and had a bone marrow transplant

    • Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital performed a preemptive bone marrow transplant on Nolan before he developed leukemia, which was a first for the hospital

    • The brothers are helping each other navigate their health battles 


    The brothers are on a team that’s been building an unbreakable bond through more than medical issues. First, Reed was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive bone marrow cancer.

    “When he got diagnosed, he went through chemotherapy and ended up having a bone marrow transplant,” said Megan. “Last March, when we did the genetic testing, we were trying to find a donor for Reed, we found out that Nolan, our youngest son, also carries the gene.”

    That’s why Nolan is in the hospital.

    “I got my cells in me and so far, they haven’t reacted yet,” said Nolan about his recent bone marrow transplant.

    Dr. Natalie Booth has cared for both Reed and Nolan.

    “Unfortunately, Nolan was also positive for the same gene. So, Nolan has not yet developed leukemia, which is our hope. We don’t want him to develop leukemia, which is the nidus for doing transplant and a preemptive setting to prevent Nolan from developing leukemia,” said Dr. Booth, who specializes in Pediatric Hematology Oncology.

    A rare case, Dr. Booth said this was the first time Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital performed a preemptive bone marrow transplant before a patient developed leukemia.

    “But for both boys to undergo this transplants within the same year is rare in of itself,” said Dr. Booth.

    The boys have been leaning on each other over the last year.

    “I’ve already been through this, and I’ve done about everything that you can do in the hospital. So, if he ever needs help with anything, if he has any questions, I’m just always here,” said Reed, who is now in remission and supporting his little brother.

    “He makes me feel really good,” said Nolan.

    Something else making him feel good: a surprise.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 was there when the nonprofit organization, Casting for the Kids, surprised the family with four tickets to a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game next year.

    “It means everything to me, because our daughter went through this when she was two years old, and we know what just a little bit of joy comes when a family gets a surprise like this so anything we can do to help lighten the heavy weight of childhood cancer,” said Executive Director Ben Shroyer.

    A family that could use some of that weight lifted during the holidays.

    “I think I am most grateful for them because they are so strong,” said Megan. “They were already very close before this, but the bond is kind of like unbreakable. And with Reed’s experience, it certainly helps navigate Nolan through this very difficult process.”

    An unbreakable bond between young brothers tackling their health scares together.

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  • Pasco County entrepreneur opens new spa after turning her life around

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    LUTZ, Fla. — A new business owner is grateful for a new beginning as her dreams of opening a spa come true.

    What You Need To Know

    • Elizabeth Remis is opening Creations Med Aesthetics and Wellness Spa in Lutz

    • Remis overcame addiction and served a year in state prison before turning her life around

    • Only 1.5% of U.S. small business owners have a felony record, according to RAND Corporation

    • Remis hopes to help others find their best selves through her new business

    “It’s very empowering. Like this is really happening for me,” said Elizabeth Remis. “Like, wow.”

    The empowered entrepreneur is getting Creations Med Aesthetics and Wellness Spa ready to open at the beginning of the new year.

    Remis is focusing on rebirth as she continues a 26-year recovery journey.

    “When those steel doors closed in on me in prison, that was like an aha awakening for me that life has to change,” said Remis. “I need to do something different, this is not working out for me.”

    Remis was in and out of the Hillsborough County Jail and served a year in state prison on a felony charge.

    She says she turned to drugs after the deaths of several relatives and surviving sexual assault.

    “(I was) using substances to cope with life and became a very unhealthy individual and did some very unhealthy things,” said Remis.

    She got healthy, got clean behind bars and started concentrating on therapy and healing.

    “There was a time that I would never anticipate that I would have or own a spa,” said Remis.

    This entrepreneur has beat the odds. Just 1.5% of U.S. small business owners have a felony record, that’s according to RAND Corporation, a nonprofit research organization.

    Allie Markham and Abe Brown Ministries serve up to 350 clients coming out of incarceration. Their job placement program InspHire helps employ people with a history of criminal charges.

    “Breaking down those barriers is a challenge, trying to get employment, housing, a lot don’t even have credit when they come out, so establishing all of that takes time,” said Markham, who is the program manager.

    Time and faith are what Remis has relied on.

    She hopes to help others find their best selves, and she’s getting used to being called an entrepreneur.

    “I’m just really filled with a lot of gratitude today, you know, because life could have been really different for me,” said Remis.

    Grateful for a new beginning in her new spa and safe haven.

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  • Bay area center offers counseling as mental health diagnoses spike in seniors

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — With an increase in the number of senior citizens being diagnosed with mental health conditions, the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas wants those 60 and older to know free mental health counseling is available.

    What You Need To Know

    • Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas offers free mental health counseling for 60 and older

    • The program provides screening, assessment, in-person and virtual mental health counseling

    • Fair Health reports 57.4% increase in mental health diagnoses for seniors 65 and older 


    “There’s a lot of pressures that seniors are dealing with or experiencing, whether that’s cost of living, isolation or loneliness, especially since COVID, grief, losing a spouse, a loved one,” said Director of Programs at Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Christine Didion. “Seniors can receive talk therapy with a licensed mental health counselor. We’re able to do either telehealth or meet with them at a senior center that might be close to them.”

     Pinellas County resident Robert Palin, 81, has been seeing a mental health counselor through the program since 2022.

    “I just felt that a mental health counselor would be helpful in adjusting to the aging process for me, because I have a neuromuscular disability and hearing loss and sight loss, and even my voice is changing. I have difficulty negotiating large groups, public spaces,” he said.

    Palin is not alone. There’s been a more than 57% spike in mental health diagnoses in those 65 and older between 2019 and 2023, the most recent data from Fair Health. The most common are anxiety and depression. And there was a nearly 36% increase in adults 51 to 64.

    “When we lose our ability to do what we did for decades, we get depressed often,” said Palin, who says support has made a difference. “I feel more accepting of what it means to decline.” 

    He adds it has made a difference in self-confidence.

    “Bringing out what you can do. I can still play the piano. I still play chess. I still am fascinated and curious about so many subjects,” said Palin.

    The free mental health counseling program is provided through funding from the Older Americans Act.

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  • Bay area foster mother provides safe space for young human trafficking survivors

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Karen Bowen is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving. The foster mom has been a caregiver to more than 300 kids over the years and many return for the holidays.

    “I want them to feel that this is home, no matter what,” said Bowen. “This is home.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Children’s Home Network provides in-depth training so parents can support young victims of human trafficking
    • Karen Bowen helps foster children find themselves again after recently receiving Safe Home Licensing
    • Nine children that were recovered during “Operation: Home for the Holidays” were placed in a Hillsborough County group and safe homes


    Bowen recently completed in-depth training through Children’s Home Network that concentrates on caring for young victims of human trafficking.

    “I have to make sure that you feel safe, so when you walk back through this door, I’m giving you a hug,” said Bowen. “I’m not asking you any questions, because when it’s your time to talk with me is your time. My goal is also to help bring back the dignity that you think that you may have lost.”

    Bowen helps her foster children find themselves by providing more than a bed to sleep in.

    “I’m here to give you the support, the guidance, the love and the opportunity to rebuild yourself,” Bowen says of making sure to connect foster children with support services that include mental health counseling and connecting with case managers and peer support from those with lived experience in human trafficking. 

    Some of the 122 missing and endangered children recently rescued during Operation Home for the Holidays are rebuilding with help from a designated Safe Home like Bowen’s.

    Tianay Lewis with Children’s Home Network helped place nine of those children in a Hillsborough County group and foster homes. She said the in-depth training that Safe Home Parents receive is essential.

    “All of our training focuses on trauma and loss and risk factors that our kids have from trauma in their lives,” said Lewis. “They would learn about what potential indicators are of a child who might be trafficked. Safety, obviously, is a huge part of it, responding to trauma responses.” 

    Bowen’s hope is that foster kids get support they need to find new confidence and start a new life.

    “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t survive through this,” said Bowen. “You’re a survivor. You’re survivor.”

    Survivors, Bowen wants to make sure have a place to call home.

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  • Revitalizing Clearwater’s historic North Greenwood area

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Revitalization efforts are underway for the North Greenwood area of Clearwater.

    “This area has the highest concentration of poverty in Pinellas county,” said Gloria Campbell, Executive Director of Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition.

    The Coalition is partnering with the City of Clearwater to transform the historic area.

    What You Need To Know

    • Revitalizing Clearwater’s North Greenwood Community

    • Mini mall made out of shipping containers to open in 2026

    • Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition partnering with City of Clearwater for revitalization project


    “Along this strip here, MLK (Street) used to be the heartbeat of the African American community,” said Gloria Campbell, Executive Director of Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition.

    She said the vision for a mini mall created out of shipping containers is a step toward bringing new business into the corridor.

    “It will be a vibe, it will be a destination,” said Campbell of The Grove @ 1105. “It will be a place that you can just come relax, have fun, enjoy some great music, good food and just connect again with family, community.”

    Eddie Adams, owner and operator of Loaded The Potato Place has already secured container space. He said he is excited to expand his business.

    “Think spending a great day with the family and having some fun foods to talk about,” said Adams who has a personal connection to the project.

    “I think it’s really important to be part of it because I’m from the area, I’m familiar with it, said Adams. “At one point I was an at-risk youth in the area and I’m familiar with a lot of the community and it will be a great way to bring it back.”

    A partnership working to bring a community back to the thriving business hub it once was. 

    So far, businesses that have secured space include: restaurants, retail, a bakery, a wine bar, a juice bar, hydration therapy. The courtyard will host everything from yoga and massage to entertainment. 

    The Grove @ 1105 is set to open the summer of 2026.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Tampa-area Girl Scout nationally recognized with lifesaving award

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A Bay area Girl Scout who recently received the top lifesaving award given by the Girl Scouts of the USA credits training during a troop meeting with giving her the skills and courage to help her father during a medical emergency.

    What You Need To Know

    • 10-year-old Maggie Lewandowski put lessons learned to use in real life when her father, Greg, suffered a stroke

    • Maggie took control, putting into action what she had learned just weeks earlier. She stayed calm, called 911 and got her father some water

    • After his stroke, Greg stayed in the hospital for a week. He credits the Girl Scouts for making his recovery possible

    • Maggie’s quick thinking earned her the National Girl Scout Medal of Honor

    “Most of the stuff that I remember learning is, no matter what the emergency is, just stay calm,” said Maggie Lewandowski as she recalled training for her first-aid badge.

    The then 10-year-old put those lessons to use in real life when her father, Greg, suffered a stroke in June 2024.

    “I was just sleeping in my bed and I just woke up in my bed to my dad just calling my name,” said Maggie.

    “I just woke up, got out of bed and just collapsed,” said Greg. “Just fell to the floor, lost the ability to control my body and walk.”

    Maggie took control, putting into action what she had learned just weeks earlier. She stayed calm, called 911 and got her father some water.

    “I was scared and she was there for me when I needed it,” said Greg. “So, it was just, I can’t even say I was proud of her at the moment. I was just surprised that the girl that I take care of was taking care of me.”

    Maggie Lewandowski and her father, Greg at awards ceremony (Girl Scouts of USA)

    After his stroke, he stayed in the hospital for a week. He credits the Girl Scouts for making that recovery possible.

    Maggie’s troop leader, Julie Cortes, was instrumental in encouraging the Council to explore the first-aid badge.

    “I just kept thinking like, how crazy. This is the very last badge that we taught and the things that we were emphasizing and immediately she was putting it to use,” Cortes said. “Honestly, it gives me goosebumps.”

    Maggie’s quick thinking earned her the National Girl Scout Medal of Honor. It’s the top life-saving award given by the Scouts and out of one million nationwide, Maggie is one of only 24 scouts who received the honor. It was awarded to her in October.

    Dad is of course, extremely proud.

    “She’s incredibly deserving of it. She’s the most disciplined and responsible and kind person that I know,” he said. “And just for her to receive that award for her hard work for saving her father, yeah, I couldn’t be more delighted to see that happen.”

    “It was a scary day, we didn’t know what was happening but I just feel like I handled the situation really good,” said Maggie.

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  • Walk-N-Roll event aims to raise money & awareness for SMA

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Team Allison Wonderland is working on building team spirit ahead of the annual Cure SMA Walk-N-Roll.

    The event at Eckerd College raises money and awareness for spinal muscular atrophy. The progressive neurodegenerative disease affects motor nerve cells in the spinal cord.

    Allison Kerns was diagnosed with SMA at 16 months old.

    “I have limited functional abilities, so I need, like, 24/7 assistance and care,” Kerns said. “So, that limits independence. But to make up for that, I strive for independence when I can. And so I try to stay active and independent with schooling, with going out and having hobbies.”

    The 20-year-old also stays active by advocating for those impacted by SMA. Her mother, Katie, founded the Greater Florida Chapter of Cure SMA in 2009, after struggling to find information about her daughter’s diagnosis.

    “It’s come a long way. We needed a presence, and we got it,” said Katie.

    And she says there’s still a long way to go. Events like the Walk-N-Roll have helped support three FDA-approved treatments, clinical trials and more.

    “One of our best moments in the CURE SMA organization was going to Washington D.C. and advocating to Congress, our senators and our House representatives to get newborn screening for SMA,” Katie said.

    As for where future funding should be focused, she said: “Anything focusing on the muscles that can help adults … that’s where I personally am excited and looking forward to and they’re so close.”

    “Just research and getting more information, diagnostics on the treatments that we already do have. It’s a lot of brand new technology and we don’t know too, too much about it,” added Allison.

    The mother and daughter will continue raising funds and awareness to find out.

    “I just — I want to work so hard to make it better and easier,” said Katie.

    Making it better and easier for her daughter and others impacted by the disease. Click the link above to register or donate.

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  • Hurricane response lessons learned after historic 2024 storms

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — From residents rebuilding their homes themselves to professionals hired to do the job, a lot of lessons learned from last year’s hurricanes are being put into play this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • More than 46,000 Pinellas County homes damaged in 2024 storms, according to officials with the county



    • Last year’s storm season provided lessons for many aspects of recovery



    • Contractors more than doubled the amount of hurricane impact windows installed this year compared to last year



    • One homeowner marks progress with impact window installation 




    More than one year since Hurricanes Helene and Milton, homeowner Linda Zolper continues to rebuild. Thursday was a sign of progress with the delivery of more than 40 impact windows that crews started installing.

    “I’m excited to see them go in,” said Zolper, who added the decision to increase hurricane preparedness was an easy one.

    “I think the storm taught us a lot about how to prepare for the next hurricane and we just wanted to make sure that most of all that the family was safe inside, so the hurricane windows give us a lot more protection from debris flying and the possibility of wind damage,” she said.

    From residents to professionals hired to help rebuild, the historic 2024 hurricane season provided lessons for many aspects of recovery.

    Licensed contractor TomCo Solutions says it has installed more than twice as many impact windows this year compared to last.

    TomCo Vice President Matt Klaus says permits and timelines have been among the biggest challenges this season.

    “The magnitude, the number of homes that need to be rebuilt, so what we found there was a lot of shortage of labor. There was a lot of shortage of materials so on and so forth, so it definitely made us change the expectations that we had to set for our clients to take those things into consideration,” said Klaus. 

    From impact windows to flood barriers, Klaus said homeowners are more inclined to rebuild with additional protective measures, like flood barriers.

    For homes that were flooded, Klaus says they have modified communication with clients.

    “We’ve really had to change the fact that we incorporate technology to get pictures to them so they can see it, have access, setting up cameras onsite so they can see people that are on the job site,” said Klaus.

    This area will be a job site for about another month. Zolper hopes to be back in by December.

    “It’s just been a waiting game, really trying to get everything lined up and all the decisions made,” said Zolper.

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  • Hurricane-damaged home demolished in Indian Rocks Beach

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    INDIAN ROCKS BEACH, Fla. — The owners of an Indian Rocks Beach home damaged during Hurricanes Helene and Milton recently made the decision to tear it down and start over.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homeowners Mary Frances and Chris Gorman say it was a bittersweet decision on how to move forward after the storms

    • Before demolition began, the Gormans took one final moment inside the house describing what it was like when Hurricane Helene hit
    • It was decided that tearing down and rebuilding the house was a better option than trying to repair it


    Homeowners Mary Frances and Chris Gorman say it was a bittersweet decision on how to move forward after the storms.

    “It’s hard, it’s definitely hard seeing it getting destroyed,” Chris Gorman said of their home of eight years being torn down. 

    “Honestly, I’m starting to tear up a little bit,” Mary Frances Gorman said.

    “There was a lot of memories in this house,” Chris said. “And it was a great house — and it was where we first brought our firstborn home. And we’ve just experienced a lot of great memories here.”

    Before demolition began, the Gormans took one final moment inside their home, and described what it was like when Hurricane Helene hit.

    “Pulling your 1-year-old out of her crib when the water is that close to getting in, I mean gives you a different perspective certainly,” said Mary Frances.

    It was that perspective that compelled the couple to move forward the way they are.

    “There’s so much damage, from the top to the bottom,” said Chris. “It definitely makes more sense to start anew.”

    “We are currently demolishing this house because it was more economical to raze this house to the ground, or to eliminate it, and build a new house back up at flood-plane level,” said Tommy Whitehead, president and CEO of TOMCO Solutions.

    “Building something that is going to be safety-wise where we know it needs to be,” said Mary Frances. “It’s not a question of if, it’s when the next storm comes, and what it’s going to be. And you want to make sure you do everything possible to withstand it.”

    Whitehead said the process of tearing down and rebuilding a home can be challenging.

    “There’s been quite a few challenges here,” he said. “Navigating FEMA, navigating SBA loans and lending, navigating permitting and then the homeowners have to do a lot of research because this is a major financial impact to them and their family.”

    Even a year later, families like the Gormans are still feeling the impact of the storms in a variety of ways.

    “There’s the pre-storm, and then there’s post-storm, and I want to get beyond and start enjoying and living again, because we just haven’t been,” Mary Frances said. 

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  • Metropolitan Ministries expanding; opening holiday tent in Pinellas County

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — After providing a holiday tent assistance program in Tampa more than 40 years, Metropolitan Ministries is expanding its outreach and opening a tent in Pinellas County this season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Metropolitan Ministries expands iconic holiday tent site to Pinellas County 

    • The St. Petersburg location at Holy Cross Catholic Church is expected to serve more than 5,000 families

    • Organization hiring for seasonal staff to help support holiday outreach efforts


     “We’ve done distributions out of the back of a truck and giving people food but this is more relational,” said Tim Marks, Chief Strategy Advisor and Former CEO of Metropolitan Ministries. “My role is to take what we’ve done in Tampa (and) make sure we do our best here in Pinellas to serve.”

    The organization will offer hope, Marks says, to more than 5,000 families the organization is expected to serve.

    “Some are struggling still from the hurricanes from last year. Others have economic storms and other storms of life that they’re facing. We want to bring hope and happiness to families over the holiday season,” he said.

    Families can start registering online Oct. 20 for the tent that helps people through the Thanksgiving and Christmas season.

    “You shop for the food you like for your family. You pick out the toys. It’s not Metropolitan Ministries that’s providing the toys; you want to give mom and dad the dignity of providing toys for their kids,” said Marks.

    Holy Cross Catholic Church in St. Petersburg says parishioners are also excited about the expansion and ready to volunteer.

    Metropolitan Ministries is also hiring for several temporary positions to help support what it calls Tampa Bay’s largest outreach initiative serving families in crisis over Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

    “We’ve been seeing about a 15% increase in seniors struggling and needing help because they’re on fixed income. Their rent’s gone up, their food costs have gone up, utilities have gone up,” said Marks.

    While setup is still in progress, the tent will soon be filled with people serving the community.

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  • Clearwater Ferry reopens route in Dunedin

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The Clearwater Ferry service to Dunedin that was suspended after Hurricanes Helene and Milton is up and running again.

    What You Need To Know

    • Clearwater Ferry reopens route in Dunedin

    • Service was suspended after Hurricanes Helene and Milton

    • Dunedin Blue Line runs every two hours Thursday-Sunday starting at 10am


    A ribbon cutting with Dunedin City officials and representatives from PSTA, the City of Clearwater and Clearwater Ferry celebrated this next phase of recovery Thursday, which also marked one year since Hurricane Milton.

    “This, again, is another step to give all our citizens and all our communities a feeling that ‘hey, we are getting there, we’re starting to feel that normalcy again,’” said Dunedin Mayor, Maureen ‘’Moe’’ Freaney.

    The city says through an inter-local agreement, Clearwater marina staff constructed a temporary landing to be used. City leaders, passengers and local business owners alike echo the sentiment of appreciating a sense of normalcy returning, even as the community continues to rebuild one year later.

    “Nobody could have expected what happened through that storm and how it affected so many people on this coastline and our neighbors, friends, we all got affected by it,” said Sylvia Tzekas, who owns Sea Sea Riders Restaurant near the marina.

    “We’ve just missed it so much and we’re so glad it’s back,” said Rhea Bogda, who was one of the first passengers to depart from Dunedin on the ferry in a year. “And the moment that I heard it was going to be Thursday, October 9th, we booked the tickets.”

    The ferry can transport almost seventy passengers on a route that runs from Dunedin Marina to Downtown Clearwater, to Clearwater Beach, back to Downtown Clearwater and back to Dunedin.

    Tzekas says she looks forward to increased foot traffic downtown. “The tourists that go to Clearwater Beach will be able to enjoy Dunedin as well, which is wonderful and what a great way to travel and enjoy the waterfront and enjoy downtown.”

    Enjoying coastal cities while supporting local businesses. “It’s just been a favorite thing of ours to do,” said Bogda.

    The ferry runs every two hours, Thursday through Sunday, with the first boat leaving at 10am and the last at 6pm.

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