ReportWire

Tag: Pinellas County

  • Pinellas officials calling for safe removal of lithium batteries from public

    PINELLAS COUNTY , Fla. — Pinellas County leaders are making an important reminder for the rest of hurricane season.

    County waste officials are reminding people to properly dispose of anything with lithium batteries they no longer use.


    According to state officials, after hurricanes Helene and Milton, there were more than 80 local fires directly attributed to the batteries, which are found in everything from cell phones to lawn equipment.

    The batteries can burst into flames if they’re punctured, damaged, or come into contact with salt water.

     Pinellas County officials recommend looking around for any battery powered items that aren’t being used anymore.

    And getting rid of them before they become a problem.

    “We’re certainly not seeing as many rechargeable batteries coming into our facility as we know that are out there,” said Jasmine Scott, the county’s environmental outreach specialist. “And your home, I mean, you can look around your home and think of at least ten things that are rechargeable, including your electric toothbrush.”

    The public can return lithium batteries for free at the household hazardous waste facility in St. Pete. 

    The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection program is for Pinellas County households only. Businesses, hobbyists, haulers, and nonprofits should visit the Business Collection Events page.

    Erica Riggins

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  • Fans hope for answers on ballpark plans from new Rays owners

    TAMPA, Fla. — There’s more questions than answers surrounding the future of the Tampa Bay Rays, but fans hope that ends when the Rays new ownership group speaks Tuesday for the first time since sealing the deal.

    Tampa Bay Rays Managing Partner and Co-Chair Patrick Zalupski, Co-Chair Bill Cosgrove, and Chief Executive Officer Ken Babby plan to speak at a news conference set for 11:30 a.m. at Steinbrenner Field.

    Zalupski and his team are expected to field questions regarding plans for a new stadium, how much they plan to invest in a new stadium, and how much they plan to invest into the team itself.

    The Rays lease with the city of St. Pete to play at Tropicana Field runs through 2028.

    The Rays are scheduled to return to the hurricane-damaged Trop for opening day of the 2026 season, should the brand new roof and extensive repairs be completed by early April. After that, it’s unclear where the new ownership group plans to build a new ballpark.

    Possible locations still include the Tropicana Field site in St. Pete, a location in Tampa, or somewhere else altogether. Nothing has been publicly ruled out by the Rays new owners.

    “It’s great having football, baseball, and hockey in Tampa and to see baseball leave would just be really disappointing,” said fan Jennifer Adams. “We’ve built a really good following and I think it’s just good for the market.”

    Roof repairs continue at Tropicana Field, with a goal of it being ready for the 2026 regular season. (Sky 9)

    Other questions Zalupski and his team are expected to be faced with Tuesday include how much they plan to invest into the stadium and the team itself. The former ballpark deal negotiated by past-owner Stu Sternberg included getting $600 million from Pinellas County and the city of St. Pete to go toward a $1.2 billion ballpark.

    That deal fell apart after Hurricane Milton ripped the roof off Tropicana Field and a series of delayed votes within county and city government.

    “Hopefully the group that purchased them puts some money into the team,” said baseball fan Shawn Molnar. “It’s good for the Tampa Bay area and the economy.”

    The news conference is set for 11:30 a.m. You can watch it live on Spectrum Bay News 9 on-air, online or the Spectrum News app.

    Angie Angers

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  • Tarpon Springs distillery struggles amid rising costs and consumer habits

    TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — U.S. liquor distillers say the industry is being squeezed by changing customer habits and tariffs.

    What You Need To Know

    • The U.S. liquor industry is facing tough times due to changing customer habits and tariffs

    • Exports have also plummeted, impacting demand from markets like Canada and the EU

    • A Tarpon Springs distiller remains hopeful that tourists and locals will return

    Barry and Lisa Butler, who own and operate the Tarpon Springs Distillery, say business is tough right now.

    “I think there’s a lot of downward pressure on the whole, not only distillery but brewery industry in general,” Barry said.

    Barry points to younger people drinking less alcohol and instead opting for alternatives like CBD drinks. On top of that, he says the slowing economy and inflation are taking their toll.

    Prices for materials like metal and copper used in the distilling process have gone up, along with small items such as plastic cups.

    “Bottles are up 50 percent since pre-COVID between transportation and the cost of that,” Barry said. “Packaging and labels are up probably 60 to 70 percent over what they were pre-COVID.”

    He says he has seen other distilleries close, especially as demand decreases. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, exports have also dropped significantly, with an 85 percent decline to Canada and a 12 percent decrease to the European Union.

    While Tarpon Springs Distillery doesn’t export, Barry added that one of the biggest drops in customer traffic comes from Canadian tourists, who once flocked to the area but have dwindled since the start of the trade war.

    Despite the challenges, Barry remains hopeful that tourists and locals will return. He believes the business will make it through these rough times, though he remains cautious about where the industry is headed.

    Jeff Van Sant

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  • Tampa Bay Rays’ new owners outline future for team, hopes for stadium

    TAMPA — A new era of Tampa Bay Rays baseball kicked off Tuesday morning when the team’s new ownership group gave its first remarks about the team’s future, both on and off the field.

    Tampa Bay Rays Managing Partner and Co-Chair Patrick Zalupski, Co-Chair Bill Cosgrove and Chief Executive Officer Ken Babby met with reporters at Steinbrenner Field.

    Their purchase of the team became official last week, though previous owner Stu Sternberg will still maintain a stake in the team.

    “We are honored and feel privileged to be the new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays. This moment is not just about ownership; it’s about stewardship,” Zalupski said.

    “We recognize the deep responsibility we now carry to deliver a championship-caliber team on the field and a world class experience for our fans.”

    Zalupski said the ownership team’s goal is to have a “world class ballpark” ready for 2029.


    “It’s no secret that we need a new forever home to secure the Rays’ long-term future in Tampa Bay,” Zalupski said. “Delivering upon that objective is our first priority.”

    The group also announced that President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander and manager Kevin Cash remain in their positions. 

    “We’re going to continue to support them,” Babby said. “We believe in what the previous regime has created and want to build to sustain it.”

    The goal for a stadium site encompasses all of the Tampa Bay area, according to the new owners. They referenced the idea of a 100-acre site containing hotels, offices, retail, bars, restaurants and a music venue.

    The three have been meeting with the Atlanta Braves, who opened a new stadium in 2017 and have watched the surrounding Battery area grow since with restaurants, hotels and other businesses. The stadium and shopping district are actually outside Atlanta, instead located in nearby Cobb County.


    “We spent a lot of time studying, evaluating, doing, meeting with the Atlanta Braves, they’ve been incredibly generous with their time and resources,” Zalupski said. “So let us look at the Battery. We think the Battery is the gold standard of what we want to we want to build and develop here in Tampa Bay.”

    Zalupski said he learned from the Braves that the more land, the better — with a balance.

    “For us, this is critical to building a championship team. You have to meet the criteria,” he said. “For us, we think it’s likely 100-plus acres. If you ask the Braves, they’ll tell you what was the one thing you’d do differently if you could, and they’ll say, ‘land, land, land, more land.’ They’re now over 100 acres. More is better, but it’s also balance of location, quality of location and the amount of land. There’s a point that will intersect. So it’s not just, ‘This is 500 acres, 30 miles outside of Tampa.’ That’s not what we’re looking for. Great location and as much land as we can get.”

    The group is meeting this week with leaders from Tampa and St. Petersburg to discuss options.

    Zalupski said part of the deal to buy the team was that they could not meet with city officials until the sale was complete.

    Babby, described as the team’s new CEO, acknowledged there is long-standing “fatigue” in the area about where the Rays would build a new home — with frequent speculation they might decide to leave altogether. But MLB has repeatedly said it wants the team to stay. Several sites in the area have previously been considered, such as the nightlife-rich Ybor City neighborhood, the grounds of a Tampa community college and even an old greyhound racetrack.

    “We’re looking at everywhere,” Babby said. “We don’t want to pigeonhole ourselves to one location or site.”

    Meanwhile, work continues on Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. The ballpark had its roof ripped off and suffered significant internal damage last October during Hurricane Milton. By the end of the week, Babby said, half of the Trop’s 24 roof panels will be installed.

    Under the Rays’ current lease with the city of St. Petersburg, the Rays are obligated to play at the Trop for three more seasons.

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.


    Spectrum News Staff, Josh Rojas, Associated Press

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  • St. Pete City Council member proposes two new city flag variations

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Pete City Council Member is proposing the city fly two new flags at city facilities during appropriate times of the year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Council Member Gina Driscoll has proposed two new city flag variations

    • The flags are called the harmony flag and the history flag

    • The proposal will be discussed at the next St. Pete City Council meeting


    They feature the city seal laid over the progressive pride rainbow and Black history colors.

    Council Member Gina Driscoll said the idea for the variations came from out of state.

    “I got the idea from some action that was taken earlier this year in Salt Lake City,” she said.

    The flags are called the harmony flag and the history flag.

    This proposal comes after the rainbow street mural and “Black History Matters” mural were covered by the state.

    However, Driscoll said she’s had this idea for a while.

    “It hurt a lot of people,” she said. “Maybe these flags won’t fix everything, but I think it can bring a new sense of what St. Petersburg means to the people that live here.”

    Spectrum News reached out to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office to find out how they feel about this proposal.

    They sent a statement that said, “There is already a flag that recognizes ‘all people,’ it’s called the Florida Flag.”

    Spectrum also reached out to the artist who designed the flags, Andrea Pawlisz.

    She sent this statement: “It was important to design these flags to continue to recognize all the people and to validate artists as a part of this city that we call the city of arts.”

    This is on the agenda at the next St. Pete City Council meeting.

    The meeting is on Thursday and begins at 3 p.m.

    Matt Lackritz

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  • Bay area nonprofit’s phone programs help promote health among seniors

    HUDSON, Fla. — A nonprofit in the Bay area is making sure seniors aren’t lonely. 

    Seniors in Service connects seniors with volunteers for routine phone calls that often lead to friendship.

    What You Need To Know

    • Seniors in Service connects seniors with volunteers for routine phone calls that often lead to friendship

    • The nonprofit’s Health Buddies Program focuses on senior health 

    • When the Health Buddies Program ends, many seniors join the Telepal Program to maintain their social connection

    • Seniors in Service said there is a real need for this kind of help


    Before Pamela Roberts starts her volunteer phone calls, she makes sure to get a drink.

    “I can’t survive without a Coke,” said Roberts, volunteer for Seniors in Service.

    Then the retired registered nurse gets comfortable on the couch and dials the phone. Spectrum News couldn’t listen to a real phone call, as Roberts keeps them confidential. The calls are part of the nonprofit Seniors in Service Health Buddies Program, which helps seniors improve their health with informative calls.

    Pamela Roberts volunteers for both the Health Buddies and Telepals Programs with Seniors in Service (Spectrum News/Tyler O’Neill)

    “I don’t tell them what they should do, but I can make suggestions or explain to them what they should expect during different procedures,” Roberts said.

    When the Health Buddies Program ends after 12 weeks, many of the participants join the Telepals Program to maintain the social connection they grew over those several months. Roberts volunteers for this too. 

    “It’s people that you’ve developed an extra special bond during Health Buddies, and you just don’t want to stop the relationship,” she said.

    Both Roberts and her participants value the connection that often develops into a friendship. 

    “So they feel real lonely and isolated and, kind of forgotten,” the volunteer said.

    Aria Garling with Seniors in Service said there is a real need for this kind of support. This year, the organization has served more than 350 people between the two programs.

    “So for the wellness of our older adults, especially in the community, our program is crucial for wellbeing. Being able to age in place and further, just being able to have that quality of life that they absolutely deserve,” Garling said.

    That quality of life Roberts is excited to work on with others. 

    “I do this because this is a God-given talent that I have,” she said.

    Giving back with her talent and a soda.

    To volunteer for either program, you must be at least 18 years old and have a phone. 

    You must also meet those requirements to be a participant, in addition to living in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco or Polk Counties. 

    View more information on getting involved with Health Buddies.

    Tyler O’Neill

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  • Datz closes St. Pete location, following closures in Tampa, Riverview

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The once popular restaurant Datz has closed its last location.

    The eatery, known for its craft beer and eclectic offerings, posted a note at 180 Central Avenue in St. Petersburg saying its doors were closed.

    Datz opened its first location in South Tampa in 2009 and became known for its creative menu. It was featured more than once on food television shows.

    But that facility closed in August 2023, with owners citing the sale of the building and surrounding real estate.

    It was followed by the Riverview location closing the following year.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • 10th annual silent auction raises money for domestic violence victims

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — For Reach Out Speak Out, an organization that supports domestic abuse survivors, October is a special month.

    What You Need To Know

    • October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

    • This is the 10th year Reach Out Speak Out has had this silent auction

    • The money raised goes toward supporting domestic violence survivors


    It’s not only Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but it’s also when they hold their annual Purple Passion Silent Auction.

    For St. Petersburg resident Robin Brown, she’s happy to help the organization that’s been there for her.

    “I found that two and a half years ago, I needed help,” she said.

    That’s when Brown left her husband of 40 years.

    Brown said the day she left, she didn’t know that was going to be her last day with him.

    With encouragement from her kids, Brown took a step forward.

    Still, there was a lot she still needed to figure out to survive on her own.

    “It was really difficult time for me because I didn’t know where I would go,” she said. “I didn’t know how I would support myself. I worked as a cleaning lady.”

    Brown is part of the organization’s five-year program to support survivors.

    Co-founder Jan Porter said they operate in a way to make sure the people who come through their program can survive on their own.

    “We do everything in the first year every single month,” Porter said. “We give them a certain amount of money and supplies and everything like that. The second year, every other month. Then it’s quarterly. So we don’t want them sticking with us. We want them to survive and be on their own.”

    Taking that first step to a new life isn’t easy, but Brown wants other people going through what she did to remember this.

    “You are valuable, you are precious, you are loved in a way that you don’t even know,” she said.

    Matt Lackritz

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  • Downtown Clearwater and Clearwater Beach parking rates go up

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The next time you go to Downtown Clearwater or Clearwater Beach, you’ll be paying more to park. 

    The new rates went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025.

    What You Need To Know

    • Downtown Clearwater’s on-street parking is going from 50 cents to $1 an hour. Downtown garage rates are also increasing



    • Clearwater Beach parking is also going up. On-street parking is now $4 an hour, and lots are rising to $3.50 an hour



    • The city said the new rates will encourage turnover and better support downtown



    • The updated rates went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025




    The city said the rates will encourage turnover and better support downtown. 

    Lao Deli, a pop-up restaurant, is partnering with Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar in Downtown Clearwater to share their love for Lao food.

    “We know we can reach the masses about Lao food in this area,” said Somsai Thongsavanh, co-owner of Lao Deli.

    Being in Downtown Clearwater, Thongsavanh said they see their fair share of tourists during the spring and winter months. 

    “I wish that folks would just come down when there’s a concert, there are events that’s happening, go check out the calendar,” Thongsavanh said.

    On-street parking is going from 50 cents to $1 an hour, and downtown garages are now 75 cents an hour. 

    “I don’t know how much that’s going to affect that. It’s a slight increase. So, it’s one of those things where we’ll see what happens,” he said.

    The owner of Chiang Mai Thai, who’s had the busines for 18 years agrees. She said she doesn’t expect much to change.

    “We’re seeing people come and go all the time. Prices on things go up, go down, and it didn’t affect anything,” said Nola Louvon, Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar.

    Beach parking is also going up. On-street parking is now $4 an hour, and lots are rising to $3.50 an hour. 

    “I don’t feel good about it, but hopefully they’ll do something about it and make it lower,” said Pierre Kayrouz, beachgoer.

    Either way, Thongsavanh said he’s optimistic for the future because he said the area has a lot to offer.

    “Once you come through here, you’ll want to come back again,” Thongsavanh said.

    And hopefully, Thongsavanh said, you’ll have some Lao food too.

    Clearwater residents can get a 50% discount on both downtown and beach parking. They just have to apply for a permit.

    The BayCare Sound will also have a new flat rate for large events. Starting two hours before the event, parking will be $5.

    Tyler O’Neill

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  • Latest redevelopment plan for Tropicana Field site pitched

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The latest incarnation of a revitalization of the Tropicana Field site was announced Thursday as a local developer announced a new Gas Plant District proposal.

    According to Spectrum Bay News 9 partner newspaper the Tampa Bay Times, a team led by developer Casey Ellison and investor Cathie Wood have released plans for a $6.8-billion redevelopment of the Trop site once the Rays’ contract is over.

    Per the Times, renderings released on Friday include feature artistic flourishes unlike those submitted by the Rays and development partner Hines. They include what the development group is calling an Ark over a colorful cluster of buildings that looks to be a centerpiece of the proposal.

    St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said Friday the redevelopment of the Gas Plant District remains a top priority for his administration. This comes after the Rays backed out of a deal to redevelop the site and have since been purchased and switched ownership.

    The remaining time of the contract for the Rays at Tropicana Field, set to reopen after repairs from storm damage in time for the 2026 Rays opener, is through the 2028 season.

    “We’ve received an unsolicited proposal to redevelop the Historic Gas Plant District from Ark Ellison Horus, LLC and are reviewing it in detail,” Welch said in a response to Bay News 9. “I want to thank Cathie Wood, Casey Ellison, and Jonathan Graham and their teams for their time and effort in submitting this proposal.”

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • St. Pete accepts $160 million HUD grant for ‘Sunrise St. Pete’

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The St. Petersburg City Council voted this week to accept a nearly $160 million grant that will be used in part to fund “Sunrise St. Pete.”

    The program will help rebuild, raise homes, and address housing issues through funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Pete gets nearly $160 million grant from the HUD

    • Money will be used to rebuild after last year’s devastating hurricanes

    • Some funds will be used to improve housing


    It is still in the early stages of development, but city officials hope to get at least part of the program off the ground in November. The next step in St. Pete’s rebuilding efforts comes after city council unanimously approved the grant.

    The mayor said Sunrise prioritizes income-eligible homeowners, ensuring that 70 percent of the funds benefit low-to moderate-income households. The first programs within Sunrise St. Pete will involve residential recovery and elevation programs. Homeowners in hard-hit areas like Shore Acres have been in desperate need since last year’s storms.

    “I’m just hoping the money is spent properly – that there is good accounting for it,” said one resident.

    Kevin Batdorf, president of the Shore Acres Civic Association, said he is waiting for details on who might be able to benefit from the program.

    “This HUD grant is good for the city of St. Petersburg – is it specific to Shore Acres? I don’t think so. I don’t know if Shore Acres is going to see a large portion of this, but we are hopeful,” he said.

    “Everybody who flooded here during Helene, during Debby, during Idalia should be in consideration for an elevation, rehab or rebuild project.”

    Now that the grant has been finalized and approved, the city says it will move quickly to set up the infrastructure needed to get the program running. While some programs are expected to be operational by November, the rest should be in place by early 2026.

    Jeff Van Sant

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  • Hurricane-damaged restaurants hope Taste of the Beaches brings in new faces

    MADERIA BEACH, Fla. — Roughly 40 restaurants, many of which sustained damage from the back-to-back hurricanes, are taking part in this year’s Taste of the Beaches.

    After the storms cancelled last year’s event, the theme of the 2025 Taste of the Beaches is a celebration of resilience and recovery. Each participating restaurant has one featured dish, that diners can buy a ticket for online, and then redeem during week-long event that runs from October 4-12.

    Each featured dish showcases that restaurant’s coastal specialty.

    What You Need To Know

    •  About 40 restaurants participating this year 

    •  Taste of the Beaches runs from October 4-12

    •  Lucky Lizard was badly damaged in Hurricane Helene and participating for the first time 

    • VIEW THE DISHES: Taste of the Beaches


    A kickoff event featuring live music, food, and raffles will take place on Friday, October 3 at Horan Park in St. Pete Beach.

    Lucky Lizard in the heart of Maderia Beach is taking part in Taste of the Beaches for the first time. The restaurant and bar was closed for more than 8 months after Hurricane Helene brought roughly 4 feet of water inside.

    A brand new mural of a wave now wraps around the Lucky Lizard at the very height of the waterline that was left behind in the formerly-damaged restaurant. Owner Karla Penner says the hurricane is part of the Lucky Lizard’s story of community and resilience.

    “That’s why we’re so excited about being reopened… the only way we could be here is through the help of the community,” she said.

    Penner opened Lucky Lizard in early 2021 and says for more than 3 years it grew quickly and had the support of her community. Penner says when she moved to Maderia Beach she planned to retire, but quickly realized she wasn’t ready yet and decided to open the bar/restaurant concept.

    She says she put much of her savings into building out the space, which was destroyed and required a complete remodel.

    “Just coming in and seeing everything you had built and all of your hard work just gone and destroyed,” she recalled. “Then you see people trying to carrying it out the front door.”

    Since reopening, she says sales are down about 35%.

    “Many people who live in the neighborhoods back here just aren’t back in their homes yet,” Penner said. She says many people don’t realize that the majority of beachside restaurants are back open for business.

    She’s hoping Taste of the Beaches brings her exposure and new customers. Penner says she’s hopeful for the upcoming tourist season and excited to be part of this fall’s taste event.

    “Just to see our community come together and be able to have the event going on… is huge!” she said.

    The event is put on by the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce and part of the proceeds will go to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

    Angie Angers

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  • Clearwater debuts 1st Friday Lunchtime Market downtown

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — On the first Friday of each month from now through February, the 400 block of Cleveland Street in downtown Clearwater will be turned into a lunchtime market.

    What You Need To Know

    • The 1st Friday Lunchtime Market has debuted in downtown Clearwater

    • The event will be held the first Friday of every month through February
    • The market will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    • The location is the 400 block of Cleveland Street


    “We are partnering with local vendors and our merchants here in the downtown to bring just fresh finds,” said Anne Lopez, assistant director of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency.

    Those fresh finds from vendors are showcasing local produce, honey, jewelry and a variety of hand-made items. Organizers say the initiative is designed to activate downtown.

    It’s called 1st Friday Lunchtime Market.

    “What we’re hoping is, this is going to bring people out here,” said Lopez. “It brings them out during a different time of the day. Everybody goes to markets, they go on nights and weekends.”

    “Hopefully, this brings people down to Clearwater and it gives them something new to do,” Lopez added.

    Area restaurants will offer lunch specials during the event, and participants can win raffle prizes. Business owners say they hope it all helps bring more foot traffic.

    “We hope this is gonna be a good way to bring more people to downtown,” said Nola Louvon, who has been a downtown business owner almost 20 years.

    The market aims to bring visitors, residents and give business owners a mid-day break. Louvon, who owns Chiang Mai Thai & Sushi, was excited about being able to purchase some fresh produce for her restaurant.

    “I saw this and it said organic, it’s so cute and it’s green and also in our Chang Mai Tai restaurant here,” Louvon said. “We do green papaya salad also, so it’s perfect, so I don’t have to go anywhere to find it. They come to me, they just come to me.”

    The business owner says she’s proud to be supporting local and hopes more of the same helps strengthen downtown.

    Organizers hope to expand the event down additional blocks.

    The upcoming market dates are: 

    Nov. 7, 2025
    Dec. 5, 2025
    Jan. 2, 2026
    Feb. 6, 2026

    For more details, visit the 1st Friday Lunchtime Market website.

    Melissa Eichman

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  • Service and culture on display this Hispanic Heritage Month

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Here in the Bay Area, a veteran is using shared history to help groups who have lived long enough experience some of the struggles of past generations.

    What You Need To Know

    • Carlos Rodriguez said he is using creative ways to show how important Hispanic culture is

    • Rodriguez said after retiring he wanted to do more, so he followed in his mother’s footsteps

    • He said his father was a social worker and that both of his parents were devoted to helping others

    • More Hispanic Heritage Month headlines


    He is reminding them of how leadership in the Hispanic community is helping shape the future during Hispanic Heritage Month.

    Carlos Rodriguez said he is using creative ways to show how important Hispanic culture is.

    One of the tools he uses is laughing yoga with elderly participants in assisted living facilities.

    It’s not exactly what he said he thought he would be doing after moving from Colombia 35 years ago, becoming a citizen and joining the military after 9/11.

    Rodriguez said after retiring he wanted to do more, so he followed in his mother’s footsteps. First, he said he was looking to volunteer, but he eventually joined the Empath Health team, working in some of the same places his mother volunteered.

    “She was a volunteer before she became a patient, and that inspired me to continue that legacy,” he said. “She was always ready to serve somebody in need, and what a better way to help someone through their passing.”

    He said his father was a social worker and that both of his parents were devoted to helping others. It’s the kind of service he said is at the heart of what Hispanic Heritage Month is all about. He went from serving as a hero in uniform to a hero in small meaningful ways in the community — something he says is always a commonality no matter age or background.

    “Being a Hispanic, I am very proud that we contribute to the mesh of our beautiful nation. Not only through culture but through our service, through the nation, we get to live the American dream,” he said.

    If you ask him, making the world better whether he’s in uniform, spending time with veterans in a coffee shop or laughing yoga is just part of what makes his work so great. Rodriguez said some of the main things he helps veterans and seniors with are benefits, quality of care at the end of life and any language barriers that prevent them from getting the services they deserve.

    “I have the perspective not only as a veteran but as a Hispanic, and if anyone needs help in Spanish, English, I speak German because I also lived there. I’m not only an ambassador for my culture, I’m an ambassador for the United States wherever I go,” he said.

    “Talking to people, getting to get their trust so when those questions about quality of care and end of life, those hard conversations about your family, your loved one arise, I am able to answer the questions with the relationship we built, answer their questions and come to their aide.”

    Saundra Weathers

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  • Gulfport mulls transitioning to paid, timed parking

    GULFPORT, Fla. — The city of Gulfport is considering moving forward with paid or timed parking in the city’s waterfront district, but Gulfport’s mayor says she won’t entertain the idea until she hears from residents first.

    A city workshop regarding potential parking changes will take place Thursday at 6 p.m. at Gulfport City Hall. Mayor Karen Love will open the discussion to members of the Gulfport City Council to allow them to share their individual thoughts, before opening the floor to residents and business owners.

    What You Need To Know

    • Some Gulfport residents say camping and overnight parking have become a problem outside their homes
    • City leaders are considering a plan to transition from free parking to paid or timed parking in response to the complaints

    • Some residents, though, don’t want paid parking to deter visitors from visiting Gulfport businesses
    • A city workshop on parking challenges scheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m. 

    • Gulfport Mayor Karen Love says no decision will be made during the city workshop, but all are invited to speak 


    “We need to have a discussion where our residents can come up and tell us what they’re thinking,” Love said.

    No decision will be made at Thursday night’s workshop, but Love said she plans to take the ideas and concerns raised and use that information to create any future possible proposals.

    “It’s also possible the parking conversation will end after the workshop,” she said.

    The conversation regarding whether the city should move to paid or timed parking started a few months ago as a different concern. Some residents who live by the city’s waterfront say homeless people have started living and camping in their cars right outside their front doors.

    A resident named Katie — who asked to be identified by her first name due to the sensitive nature of the situation — said it’s become too much.

    “I’ve seen them naked — indecent exposure, right there in front of me,” she said.

    During a city meeting in August, the city’s social worker told council members that he’s made contact with the people encamped by the city lots, and many have refused help. He said that while a few people were grateful for health care resources, many did not want assistance from the city.

    Katie said she thinks timed parking would help reduce the number of people camping by the waterfront. At the same time, though, she doesn’t want it to impact those who are visiting restaurants and businesses.

    “If we could have three or four hours given to those people, then I think people would still come,” she said. “But they wouldn’t be staying overnight or living in the spots.”

    Gulfport resident Nancy Poucher sees it differently — she said the welcoming and creative aspect of the small city is what makes it special.

    “It’s a fun, quirky art community, but it’s really the people and how they care for one another,” she said.

    Having lost her home during Hurricane Helene, Poucher doesn’t want to deter anything from attracting visitors to the area.

    “It just seems like a really difficult time to limit parking spaces in town,” she said. “You want as many people coming to Gulfport as possible.”

    Angie Angers

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  • Dunedin restaurant hires people of all abilities

    DUNEDIN, Fla. — Finding a job can be challenging — and if you have a disability, it can be even harder. 

    In 2024, the unemployment rate for people with a disability was about twice that of those with no disability, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Current Population Survey. 

    In October, Spectrum News is celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

    What You Need To Know

    • The owners of Pisces Sushi and Global Bistro in Dunedin say they hire people of all abilities

    • The owners’ son has autism and they said they saw a need for employment opportunities

    • They’ve hired around 10 people with autism or Down syndrome since they opened 12 years ago


    Pisces Sushi and Global Bistro in Dunedin hires people of all abilities. 

    Gabby Collazo is a busy busser.

    “Whenever we don’t have a lot of customers or there’s nothing for me to clean tables, this is what I do often,” Collazo said while setting up the menu holders.

    Whether it’s switching out menus, seating customers or clearing tables, Collazo has it under control.

    “You get to meet nice people here, both employee and customer,” Collazo said. “It’s a really nice workplace.”

    She’s been working at Pisces Sushi and Global Bistro for more than three years, but Collazo said it was difficult at first because she has autism. 

    “I’m not used to talking to new people because I get nervous easily,” she said. “And it’s hard for me to get a get along, because you don’t know what they like. You don’t know if they’re comfortable talking to you.”

    The restaurant has been in business for 12 years, and the owners estimate they’ve hired close to 10 people with autism or Down syndrome. Angelica Galvin, who has Down syndrome, has been a hostess at the restaurant for eight years.

    “They make me very, very happy, like a gift,” Galvin said.

    One of the owners has a son is on the spectrum, which led to the realization that there is a need for employment opportunities for people like him. 

    “It was a thought, it was like, ‘OK, what is he going to do in the future?’” said co-owner Elizabeth Perez-Keene.

    Perez-Keene said it’s rare for people with different abilities to be a part of the day-to-day busy restaurant operations, and since their son has autism, she said they figured, why not let him try? 

    “We just have to give them a chance, and not just automatically put in our heads that it’s just hard for them to do a job,” Perez-Keene said “Let them do it, let them try because they’ll prove you so wrong.”

    The industry, Perez-Keene said, teaches them multitasking and patience, while Collazo said it’s helped her socially.

    “The employees here are all so nice,” Collazo said. “That’s what helps me get through the day. Helps me chat, at least talk a little more, make eye contact. It’s been easy, it’s been helpful.”

    Tyler O’Neill

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  • Flushable wipes create headaches for multiple Pinellas County cities

    PINELLAS PARK, Fla. — Whether it’s visiting the supermarket or a drugstore, it’s not hard to find flushable wipes. 

    Despite the name, local cities are warning people not to flush these products, including Pinellas Park. 

    Utilities Public Works Manager James King said flushable wipes are creating a headache for the city.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas Park said flushable wipes are causing issues for their city 

    • Multiple other cities in Pinellas County said flushable wipes are causing problems and encourage residents not to flush them  

    • A bill called the WIPPES Act has passed the U.S. House and would require wipes to be labeled with the phrase Do Not Flush

    “The wipes are either going to get stuck in the infrastructure of the gravity mains, the force mains, the pumps which are located down here or inside of our check valves that are in this dry side over here,” he said.  

    Sewer Foreman Kyle Carter said the work can be tedious, but it’s needed to keep their systems running. 

    If they didn’t do this, there could be significant damage.

    There are around 100 locations around the city that the team has to keep an eye on. 

    Carter said removing the gunk is not the best use of their time, but they have to dedicate time because of how quickly it gathers. 

    “We have two stations in our city that we go to every single day, sometimes twice a day when it calls because it’s backed up from flushable wipes getting caught in the pipes,” Carter said.  

    This isn’t just a Florida issue. 

    A bill called the WIPPES Act has already passed the U.S. House, and if signed into law, it would require wipes to be labeled with the phrase do not flush. 

    King said he hopes the legislation passes so that no one is confused by how the wipes are advertised.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 also reached out to other cities in Pinellas County to find out if they have issues with flushable wipes. 

    Clearwater said, “Flushable wipes do not break down in the sewage system like toilet paper.”  

    Largo said, “Our team has had to install special cutting equipment in some pumps and spend extra time pulling pumps out of service to clean them by hand.”

    Gulfport said, “They can cause plumbing issues in residential homes where they may clump together, causing blockages and costly repairs.”

    However, St. Petersburg said, “Flushable wipes/rags tend not to be the singular problem within the system when an issue arises. However, the City has found that pumps have to be taken out of service and removed weekly at various lift stations throughout the City so they can be de-ragged.”

    Matt Lackritz

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  • BayCare launches free CancerIQ survey for cancer risk assessment

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Desnee Ebner-Rivers and the word ‘cancer’ do not get along.

    What You Need To Know

    • BayCare is now offering a free Cancer Risk Assessment, powered by CancerIQ

    • This survey helps people get an understanding of their personal and family health history, and how it might influence their risk for certain cancers

    • The program can identify those at elevated risk for several cancers, including breast, colon, lung and more

    • Take the free CancerIQ survey

    Not because she has cancer, but because of what it has taken from her.

    “I did. I lost all of them,” said Ebner-Rivers.

    She lost her father to prostate cancer, and her grandmother and mother to breast cancer.

    She remembers the day a doctor gave her mom the diagnosis. Ebner-Rivers was 19 years old.

    “He came in and he was like, ‘Kat, it’s cancer,’” said Ebner-Rivers, thinking back. “I just remember breaking down and my mom was like, ‘Why are you crying?’ I was like, ‘You have cancer.’ And she’s like, ‘It’s not a death sentence.’ And she said, ‘Me and my God are going to beat it.’”

    She did beat it, at first. Her cancer went into remission, but it kept coming back.

    On the third bout, it had spread to her bones. Ebner-Rivers’ mom died shortly after.

    Knowing her familial history is one reason Ebner-Rivers came to BayCare’s Cancer Institute.

    She is one of the first to be part of a new pilot program for people wondering if they have an increased risk of getting cancer in their lifetime.

    “Rather than waiting for them to get sick, get their cancer, and sometimes have advanced stage,” said Dr. Peter Blumencranz, medical director of BayCare Cancer Institute. “What if you harbor a risk that we could identify early, catch you at a younger age, and mitigate that risk? Or maybe even take it away?”

    While genetic testing in some cases is an option, Blumencranz said the CancerIQ survey is way less invasive and free.

    “That’s where this new software called Cancer IQ comes in,” said Blumencranz.

    “So this is the landing page for our new cancer IQ risk assessment,” said Erika Oschmann, advanced practice nurse practitioner at BayCare’s High Risk Clinic.

    It is a simple five-minute survey that can tell if a person has an increased risk for nine of the most common types of cancer.

    “The best thing about this program is it’s tailored to that patient. And so it’s very individualized,” said Oschmann.

    The survey looks at familial, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

    Once completed, the results break down a person’s risks and include next steps. Those results are also sent to BayCare’s High Risk Clinic, and advanced nurse practitioners like Oschmann process them. 

    “And the goal of this is to screen these people outside of the standard screening age, right?” said Oschmann. 

    For example, most women don’t get mammograms until 40. 

    But if the CancerIQ survey shows a person is high risk for breast cancer, the High Risk Clinic connects the person with doctors who may recommend they get a mammogram at a younger age. 

    “If you have a high risk of breast cancer, you may need a breast exam every six months, not once a year, rather mammogram once a year. You get a mammogram alternating every six months with MRI,” said Blumencranz. 

    For the individual, it is all about putting a preventative care plan in place. 

    Blumencranz says on a larger scale, they have hopes this could move the needle on overall cancer diagnosis. 

    “For each of these cancers that we can assess what stage of disease will patients come into the health system before we implement this? And do we lower the stage disease? Think about it,” said Blumencranz. “If we could see in a few years that we’re getting more stage ones and twos and less threes and fours, we’ve moved the curve, right?”

    That is why people between 25 and 45 are really encouraged to take the survey, though people can do it at any age. 

    For Ebner-Rivers, it confirmed what she suspected — that she needs to keep up her yearly mammograms, even at the age of 37. 

    “I feel like the IQ test takes a guessing out of that,” said Ebner-Rivers. “It’s like, here’s the information, here’s your background, and here’s what we’re going to do next.”

    What is next is important to her, because while cancer has taken so much already, she is determined to stop that part of her family history from continuing. 

    “As a mom of three little girls, it is my job to protect them, and I can’t do that if I don’t protect myself,” said Ebner-Rivers. 

    She plans to be around for a long, long time. 

    Blumencranz adds that for those who are worried about what preventative treatments will cost, if the survey comes back saying they are high risk. He says not to worry; BayCare has financial assistance available.

    Erin Murray

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  • $15M in tax increment funds headed to Lealman for redevelopment projects

    LEALMAN, Fla. — Pinellas County’s budget for the new fiscal year includes just over $15 million for growth and redevelopment projects in Lealman.

    The Lealman Community Redevelopment Area was established 10 years ago, as a way to take tax increment funds and reinvest them into the community for redevelopment. Under Florida law, local governments can designate areas as Community Redevelopment Areas that are physically, economically and aesthetically distressed.

    Amy Davis, Community Coordinator for Lealman, says some of the big plans for the FY 2025-2026 budget include new sidewalks, streetscape projects, murals, and a pilot project that will turn an alleyway into a park-like destination.

    What You Need To Know

    • Budget allocations include $8.5 million for infrastructure improvements in Joe’s Creek Industrial Area

    •  $1 million will go towards sidewalks and streetscape 

    •  Beautification to alleyway through new pilot project part of budget 

    • Lealman CRA was established in 2015 
    • Lealman CRA Boundary Area Map (.pdf)


    One of the most recent projects through the Lealman CRA was a partnership with Creative Pinellas to create a giant mural on the side of a 54th Ave N strip mall.

    Dilip Nayak runs the 54th Avenue Deli Mart, which sits in the building that hosts the mural.

    “Not many people knew about this business, but once they see the mural they’ve been stopping by and it’s actually helping the business,” Nayak said.

    Nayak says he’s happy to hear that the Lealman CRA is continuing to prioritize similar projects, as he feels it really makes a difference.

    ‘It’s definitely a great initiative, I’ve been noticing some changes around the city,” he said.

    More than $8 million of the new budget will be going into infrastructure improvements in the Joe’s Creek Industrial Park area. The area is currently a mix of manufacturing and some smaller businesses, but has proven issues with drainage problems.

    Te Lealman CRA recently modified the master plan for the industrial park, to allow for more uses going forward.

    “Putting the resources of the CRA to help fill in the funding gaps for capital improvements down there and infrastructure improvements will go a long way,” Davis explained.

    The Lealman CRA is over 2,500 acres or approximately 4 square miles between 38th Ave N and 62nd Ave N.

    Angie Angers

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  • Clearwater votes to further examine dropping Duke Energy

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Clearwater is moving forward with an appraisal and potential timeline for switching electric providers from Duke Energy to a municipal utility.

    City council members voted unanimously Monday night on the move at last night’s meeting.

    What You Need To Know

    • City of Clearwater has voted to move forward with dropping Duke Energy as its energy provider

    • Lawmakers said the goal is to save residents money. But according to Duke, switching could cost the city as much as $1 billion

    • St. Petersburg is another municipality examining no longer using Duke Energy

    Lawmakers said the goal is to save residents money. But according to Duke, switching could cost the city as much as $1 billion.

    Nearly two dozen residents weighed in during public comment, with one suggesting Clearwater join forces with other cities.

    “Why aren’t we doing this together?” said Clearwater resident Mike Reardon. “It might take a decade. But how about a utility company for all of Pinellas County?”

    Among the speakers were several current and former Duke employers.

    They spoke about the expertise of Duke crews, including when it comes to restoring power after storms.

    Others say they’re frustrated that Duke’s rates keep going up, and urged the council to move forward with creating its own utility.

    “Their motivation is always going to be how to make the most money for the shareholders to the tune of, what? Nineteen or $20 billion? They are never going to have our best interests at heart.”

    A representative from NewGen Strategies & Solutions says a feasibility study found a municipal utility could save residents $17 a month on their electric bill.

    Duke questions that, saying the study includes misleading assumptions.

    St. Pete is also thinking about dropping Duke Energy. Last month, City Council asked Mayor Ken Welch to consider ending their agreement, which is up for renewal next year.

    The mayor’s next step is to hire consultants who will study how feasible it is for St. Pete to run its own utility.

    Sarah Blazonis

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