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  • A Waterfront Opportunity Tampa Bay Can No Longer Replicate | Marina Pointe

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    Marina Pointe reveals what happens when access, planning and timing align on a private peninsula along the bay.

    Along Tampa Bay’s southern shoreline, opportunities to create true waterfront communities have narrowed considerably. Environmental constraints, entitlement complexity and rising land values have reshaped what is possible along the bay. Marina Pointe occupies a rare position within that reality, set on a private peninsula in the Westshore Marina District, where deepwater marina access and direct waterfront living were resolved before those constraints took hold. As a result, Marina Pointe reflects not just a desirable location but a development condition that’s increasingly difficult to achieve in today’s Tampa Bay market.

    A private dockside gathering at Marina Pointe offers guests an up-close look at daily life along the community’s marina, with sunset views across Tampa Bay setting the backdrop.

    From Vision to an Established Setting
    Rather than introducing an untested concept, Marina Pointe builds on a vision that is already functioning. The community’s first residential tower established the foundation, drawing buyers seeking direct bay frontage and a lock-and-leave lifestyle within close reach of Tampa International Airport and the region’s business and cultural centers. That momentum now continues with Luna at Marina Pointe, the community’s second residential release. This progression places Luna in a fundamentally different position than a typical new launch, emerging within a setting that has already demonstrated how it functions day-to-day.

    Residences at Luna at Marina Pointe are oriented to expansive marina and bay views, extending the waterfront into everyday living.

    Luna at Marina Pointe
    Luna extends the architectural and planning principles that define the broader Marina Pointe vision. Residences are oriented toward open water and marina views, with expansive glass and generous terraces designed to frame Tampa Bay as part of daily life. Interiors balance light, proportion, and privacy, supporting full-time living as well as extended stays. The emphasis throughout is on long-term relevance, both in design and in how residents engage with the waterfront setting. In a market where waterfront projects often shift character between phases, this continuity reinforces Marina Pointe’s identity as a cohesive residential environment rather than a collection of standalone buildings.

    Where the Marina Shapes Everyday Life
    Direct access to a protected deepwater marina remains central to the experience, a feature that is increasingly difficult to integrate within urban waterfront development. For residents, this translates to immediate connection to open water without the complications often associated with urban waterfront living. Combined with walkable surroundings, curated amenities and a composed residential environment, Marina Pointe offers a lifestyle defined as much by ease as by location.

    At Marina Pointe, a private peninsula, protected marina, and long-horizon planning have created a waterfront lifestyle that can no longer be replicated on Tampa Bay.

    A Limited Residential Offering at the Water’s Edge
    A limited collection of Harbour Homes further distinguishes the community. Positioned at the water’s edge, these residences offer private entries and a heightened sense of seclusion, appealing to buyers seeking the privacy of a waterfront home paired with the benefits of a fully serviced condominium setting. This hybrid approach addresses a niche that is rarely served in condominium communities, particularly along Tampa Bay’s constrained waterfront.

    Why This Position Along Tampa Bay Matters Now
    As Tampa Bay continues to evolve, opportunities for direct bayfront ownership are becoming increasingly rare. Marina Pointe stands apart not through excess but through intentional planning, proven execution and a clear understanding of how modern waterfront living is meant to function. As waterfront inventory tightens, opportunities that combine location, access and established infrastructure are becoming less common, particularly within fully entitled peninsula settings. For buyers evaluating the region with a long-term lens, it represents a waterfront address shaped by context, access and enduring value rather than trend.

    For readers interested in learning more about Luna at Marina Pointe and the residences currently available, the Marina Pointe sales gallery offers additional insight into the community’s vision, floorplans and waterfront setting. Private appointments and information are available at the sales gallery located at 4900 Bridge Street in Tampa, or by calling (813) 444-4632.

    ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.

    The three Marina Pointe condominiums are being developed by Marina Pointe East Developer, LLC, Marina Pointe Central Developer, LLC, and Marina Pointe West Developer, LLC (individually or collectively the “Developers” or “Developer” as is required in context), and this offering is made only by the Developers’ respective Prospectus for the applicable Condominium. Community features, amenities and pricing are approximate and subject to change without notice. Developers reserve the right to replace appliances and fixtures with items of equal value. There are various methods for calculating the total square footage of a condominium unit, and depending on the method of calculation, the quoted square footage of a condominium unit may vary by more than a nominal amount. The dimensions stated in this brochure are measured to the exterior boundaries of the exterior walls and the centerline of interior demising walls and, in fact, are larger than the dimensions of the “Unit” as defined in the Declaration of Condominium for each tower of Marina Pointe which is measured using interior measurements. All illustrations are artistic conceptual renderings. The property does not come fully furnished. Residences will be delivered with closets designer ready. Broker participation welcomed. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. BTI Realty, LLC is the licensed broker engaged in the sale of condominium units and is an affiliate of BTI Partners, LLC. Neither BTI Realty, BTI Partners, or any of their respective affiliated and/or related entities, other than the Developers, are acting in the capacity as a developer of the condominium pursuant to the applicable provision of Florida Statutes, Chapter 718. Please refer to the prospectus and all exhibits thereto for applicable disclosures relating to this project.

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    Tampa Magazine

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  • A+ Teacher shares classroom experiences with parents

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Avery Ortiz teaches first grade at Moon Lake Elementary. She has been teaching there for four years.

    Before graduating from St. Petersburg College, she started at the school as an instructional assistant and then became an intern. She says she was hired as a teacher after graduating.

    What You Need To Know

    • Avery Ortiz teaches first grade at Moon Lake Elementary. She has been teaching there for four years

    • Ortiz started at the school as an instructional assistant and then became an intern – all before being hired as a teacher
    • Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher? 🍎 Click here

    “I love watching the kids grow throughout the entire year. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing how much they can learn in one school year and getting to watch kids learn how to read is the most rewarding journey,” said Ortiz.

    “I love being here. It’s my favorite part of my day.”

    Ortiz faced a challenge earlier this school year when she broke her leg and had to miss some days in the classroom. She said she couldn’t wait to get back.

    “I couldn’t imagine not being with them. For two weeks, especially first-graders, that’s a really long time to be without them. And the entire time I kept thinking, they need me and I need to be back,” said Ortiz.

    A parent nominated her to be featured as an A+ Teacher, saying her child is now happy to be at school thanks to Ortiz.

    “I do it all for the kids and honestly just making sure that they feel loved and safe in the classroom is my biggest job. And I’m glad to know that I am doing that for the kids,” said Ortiz.

    Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher for a future story? Click here and fill out the submission form.

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    Jorja Roman

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  • School board OKs closings, consolidations to adjust to declining enrollment

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    LARGO, Fla. — Tuesday, the Pinellas County Schools board unanimously approved a series of proposals to close and consolidate a handful of schools.

    The move, the district officials say, will help it save money and adjust to declining enrollment.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County school board members voted to approve a number of changes the district says will help it adjust to declining enrollment

    • Disston Academy and Cross Bayou Elementary will close, Bay Point Elementary and Middle will combine to form a K-8, and Oldsmar Elementary will expand to a K-8

    • According to the district, the changes will save $7.7 million in recurring annual expenses

    • Read previous coverage: Final word on Pinellas schools closings and consolidations likely Tuesday


    The board approved combining Bay Point Elementary and Middle Schools into a K-8 and expanding Oldsmar Elementary to eighth grade. Cross Bayou Elementary School and Disston Academy will both close at the end of this school year.

    For some, it was an emotional decision.

    “I’ll only ask you one more time: Please save my school,” said Michael Gerke, a parent of a Cross Bayou student and volunteer at the school.

    Gerke says Cross Bayou Elementary should not be on the chopping block. He previously told Spectrum Bay News 9 the school’s 250-student population makes it easier for educators to know the kids than at a bigger school.

    He also said he doesn’t think the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program should be disturbed.

    In the end, that proposal, like the others, passed with a 7-0 vote from the board. Gerke and his son were visibly upset afterwards, walking out of the meeting and declining an on-camera interview.

    “Any closure is impactful for the communities we serve. We certainly heard from Cross Bayou Elementary School community members who are not happy with this recommendation, and we should expect that,” said Superintendent Kevin Hendrick. “Our schools should be places that are loved and remembered fondly. It is my responsibility, though, and obligation to provide our families with excellent academic choices and programs while maintaining a balanced budget.”

    Hendrick told board members Cross Bayou is only at 40% utilization and needs $5 million in maintenance. According to the district, closing it, along with the other changes, can save $7.7 million on recurring annual expenses. Another is expanding Oldsmar Elementary to a K-8.

    One parent told the board he supports it.

    “Three more years, my kids get to be together as siblings. That increases the togetherness, the bond, the psychological safety. Not only, though, is it stability for them, it is stability for my wife and I as parents,” said Oldsmar Elementary parent Curtis Campogni. 

    The superintendent said expanding Oldsmar will take it from 57% utilization up to 95%.

    Board member Eileen Long said she’s heard from parents who asked for closer options for middle school.

    “When your child goes to Carwise and you work until 5 p.m. and then want to go to open house at 6 p.m., a lot of parents didn’t make it. We have a lot of support for this,” Long said.

    The Oldsmar expansion will happen in phases beginning next school year. Bay Point K-8 will begin in 2027-28, and Disston Academy will close at the end of this school year. 

    According to district information, more comprehensive recommendations are expected this fall. They wouldn’t go into effect until the 2027-28 school year.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Final word on Pinellas schools closings and consolidations Tuesday

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Parents and students at a handful of Pinellas County schools should have a final answer Tuesday night on whether their school will be closing or consolidating at the end of the school year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Final answer likely Tuesday on closures and consolidation of a few Pinellas County schools

    • Cross Bayou Elementary is the only elementary school recommended for closure
    • District says the Deaf/Hard of Hearing program, which is run out of the school, would be relocated to Walsingham Oaks K-8
    • Low enrollment, aging building cited as reasons for potential closure 

    • Pinellas County Schools: Planning For Progress (.pdf)

    School board members in Pinellas County are slated to vote Tuesday on five recommendations made by Superintendent Kevin Hendrick and district staff.

    They include closing Cross Bayou Elementary School, closing Disston Academy, combining Bay Point Elementary and Bay Point Middle into a K-8 school, expanding Oldsmar Elementary to a K-8 school, and expanding the employee child care program to McMullen-Booth Elementary.

    Hendrick said the move to close or consolidate schools is in an effort to cut operational costs and reduce the amount of student seats available due to declining enrollment.

    Cross Bayou Elementary is the only elementary school recommended for closure. District staff said the aging building is in need of roughly $5.1 million in capital improvements in the coming years, including a new roof. If approved, the district hopes to sell or lease the property as-is after students depart for the final time in May. They expect to save about $3 million a year by closing the school.

    This school year, Cross Bayou Elementary has 245 students with a maximum capacity of 610 students. This is a big drop from its peak of 427 students during the 2018-2019 school year. The school also houses the district’s Deaf/Hard of Hearing program, which would be relocated to Walsingham Oaks K-8.

    If the closure is approved Tuesday, most students would be rezoned to nearby Pinellas Central and Bardmoor elementary schools.

    During a parent and family meeting earlier this month set at the school, more than 100 parents attended and many pleaded with district staff to keep the school open. They cited concerns with their students entering into larger schools and relocating the Deaf/Hard of Hearing program.

    The school community, parent Jovanniece Morales says, is so accepting of students with different needs. Those students included her young son with vision problems.

    “He’s done great since the teacher found out, and we all found his vision’s gotten worse, everybody’s been very helpful to make him feel welcome,” she said. “Like if we need to raise money to fix the roof, we’ll do that. We’ll raise the money to fix the roof.”

    Parent Michael Gerke is also a school volunteer and says he knows most of the kids at Cross Bayou. He says school board members need to understand how unique Cross Bayou is. 

    “They’re just in a really hard decision right now with what they want to do, and what they think is best,” Gerke said of Tuesday’s decision. “I do think they care — I don’t want to speak ill of them. I just think they picked the wrong school because of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing program and everything these kids face with everyday challenges.” 

    Tuesday’s vote is set to take place at a school board meeting set for 5 p.m.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Neighbors concerned about gas station traffic on St. Petersburg street

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Neighbors in a St. Petersburg neighborhood say drivers are speeding down their residential street to get to and from a gas station and that includes sometimes ignoring speed bumps. 

    Hartford Street runs north-south parallel to 34th St N, just south of 38th Ave N.

    At the north end of the street is a Wawa.

    What You Need To Know

    • Neighbors on Hartford Street in St. Petersburg are concerned about traffic from Wawa

    • They say drivers often ignore speed bumps

    • City says they are working with residents on a solution


    “This street essentially has become Wawa’s driveway,” said one neighbor, who goes by Scotty.

    Even with speed bumps and speed limit signs added – he says drivers often ignore them getting to and from Wawa.

    “I’ll see people not stopping at all for this speed bump,” Scotty said. “Once you get to know this speed bump, you know it doesn’t stop you. And they can’t make it higher because of regulations.”

    He and his neighbor, Ivylyn Harrell, worked with the city of St. Petersburg to install the speed bumps in 2017, three years after the Wawa opened.

    Harrell, who has lived on Hartford Street for decades, says the street used to be a dead end with no traffic. Now – more than 600 cars are on the street every day, according to a city study.  She’s worried about the safety impact.

    “And these cars are driving so fast. I look through my kitchen window. My heart goes in my stomach because I’m afraid one of these kids are going to get hit,” Harrell said.

    The residents are also concerned with growing e-bike use on the road as well.

    They feel the solution is simple: New signs by the Wawa to direct drivers another way to exit instead of speeding down their street.  

    The city also added that traffic can’t be routed a different way now because Wawa was granted the current setup during the formal site plan approval process. Officials say they will continue to work with the residents on Hartford Street.

    “Nobody is complaining about Wawa,” Scotty said. “We all love it. We just wish there is more to be done to divert the traffic away coming out.”

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    Tim Wronka

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  • Citrus County celebrates purchase of Pirate’s Cove with ribbon cutting ceremony

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    OZELLO, Fla. — Conservation efforts of a secluded corridor in Citrus County got a major boost on Tuesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • A special-ribbon cutting ceremony was held by Citrus County officials with the purchase of Pirate’s Cove

    • For years, the 3.6-acre waterfront property has been the topic of construction for developers
    • Citrus County moved to purchase the land, intending to conserve the natural landscape 
    • For many residents, the area serves as a reminder of the old Florida where they grew up


    Citrus County is celebrating the purchase of Pirate’s Cove, a 3.6-acre waterfront property. For years, the area has been the topic of construction for developers. But now the location will remain a spot to preserve Florida’s natural beauty.

    “Pirate’s Cove is now a forever part of the Citrus County story,” said Citrus County Commissioner Jeff Kinnard.

    The recent purchase has one objective in mind: preserving a piece of old Florida.

    “In a county and state that are growing as fast as we are, places like Pirate’s Cove are becoming rare,” said Kinnard. “This property represents the Florida many of us grew up with — the untouched, rugged, and serene landscape that defines our heritage.”

    “This is a big part of my history and who I am,” said Homosassa resident Nicole Williams. “I’ve learned a lot down here.”

    Williams is a lifelong Homosassa resident. She says Pirate’s Cove played a significant role in her childhood. Something, she says, she has passed on to her children.

    “Preserving this historical spot, specifically, has been a big part of raising our kids,” she said. “We’ve used the launch, we’ve fished out here, we’ve done a lot of weekend activities. So just important all the way around.”

    For years, the cove has been the topic of discussion for developers. With interests in construction. But with the county buying the land, Pirate’s Cove will remain as nature intended.

    “I do think it’s important that when you wake up here in Citrus County, you remember why you came here, and that’s because of the beautiful landscape,” said Williams.

    A beautiful landscape now protected for years to come.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Despite some public objections, Palmetto approves teen curfew

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    PALMETTO, Fla. — Despite some pushback from the community, members of the Palmetto City Commission voted 4-1 Monday to adopt a new curfew ordinance for minors.

    What You Need To Know

    • Despite some pushback from the community, members of the Palmetto City Commission voted 4-1 Monday to adopt a new curfew ordinance for minors

    • Children under 16 will not be allowed out without a parent between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday

    • Some parents and community members spoke against the ordinance, saying they worry teens in minority groups might be targeted

    Children under 16 will not be allowed out without a parent between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

    The city’s ordinance mirrors the ordinance passed by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners in November.

    Some parents and community members spoke against the city’s ordinance, saying they worry teens in minority groups might be targeted.

    “I just don’t want our children ending up caught up into the system or having any fines imposed on them when they’re not the responsible ones for all of that,” said Manatee County NAACP President Tracey Washington.


    Palmetto Police Chief Scott Tyler said the rule will help protect teens, and they will not be charged criminally for violating it.

    “We enforce the law impartially, effectively,” Tyler said. “This isn’t an ordinance where we’re going to be out there stopping kids. When we encounter kids, we’re trying to get them home. Also, remember that this ordinance and the statute that backs it up, it’s not criminal.”

    Tyler added there could be a $50 fine, but that will be reserved for repeat violations.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Teamwork required to save the world from asteroids at Galacticoaster

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    WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Legoland Florida Resort’s latest indoor offering is out of this world — the Galacticoaster.

    What You Need To Know

    • On The Town at Legoland Florida Resort for the opening of new indoor space coaster

    • Galacticoaster opens Friday, Feb. 27

    • Groups of four create a spaceship to take into space and destroy an “Asteroid of Probable Destruction”

    • $90 million investment for Galacticoaster and Lego Galaxy


    “It’s kind of hard to do space outdoors in Florida,” said Blake Boyter, senior project manager for the indoor coaster.

    Boyter spent four years on Galacticoaster.

    “The weather doesn’t really cooperate with you,” Boyter said. “There’s too much daylight — so we knew we had to put it in a box.”

    The 10-minute experience begins with a warning to guests — Earth is in trouble!

    And only the way to help is to build a spaceship.

    “We are saving ourselves from an asteroid of probable destruction,” said Legoland spokesperson Julie Estrada.

    After a debriefing about the world in peril, guests in groups of four gather around their own kiosk screen to build their plane — there are more than 600 possible combinations — from wings made of hamburgers and disco balls decorations.

    “As soon as you board Galacticoaster and before you turn the corner, you see yourself in the space craft that you designed,” said Estrada.

    It’s all part of a $90 million investment in the family coaster and the surrounding galaxy.

    Master Model Builder Ryan Wood helped design it and install the scenery.

    “And what you are going to see in this new Lego Galaxy is Lego models, fiberglass models,” said Wood.

    That includes the greatest space character of the Lego movie – Benny,  in his retro whip.

    Benny would be proud, because in the 90 seconds of winding, spinning and reversing on the indoor coaster filled with twinkling stars, floating Lego bricks and a fiery asteroid, you do save the Earth. Teamwork makes the dream work.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Manatee County Commissioner Carol Felts dies

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Commissioner Carol Felts has died, according to a statement by District 5 Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann on Tuesday.

    Felts represented District 1 after being elected to the post in November 2024.

    McCann called Felts a “true friend to the people.”

    “As the Manatee County Commissioner for District 1, Carol Felts was a devoted public servant, people person, and someone who spoke from the heart,” McCann said.

    Before she took office, she was a regular at county meetings, McCann said.

    She also served on several boards and councils in the county.

    In a news release, the county said: “Throughout her tenure, she worked diligently to represent her constituents, strengthen community partnerships, and advance initiatives that supported the well-being of Manatee County and its residents.”

    Commission Chair Tal Siddique said Felts cared deeply about the people she served.

    “Her commitment to District 1 and to the future of our county was evident in her leadership and service. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues, County staff, and the community,” Siddique said.

    The county will formally recognize Felts during its meeting on March 3.

    The cause of her death wasn’t released.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Florida cabinet set to vote on land gift to Hillsborough College

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida Cabinet are expected to vote Tuesday on gifting Hillsborough College 22 acres of land.

    The move would give the college the land needed for a proposed Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet are expected to vote Tuesday on gifting Hillsborough College 22 acres of land. The move would give the college the land needed for a proposed Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium

    • Hillsborough College says it is working on plans to allow a quick relocation of the campus, and later a move in to a new permanent home 

    • Local leaders are still conducting economic impact studies on a new Rays Stadium

    • The Rays have told local leaders it wants to be playing in a new stadium by the start of the 2029 MLB season 
    • PREVIOUS STORIES on Rays stadium pursuit

     

    The team is envisioning a mixed-used entertainment district that would include a domed stadium that can seat about 31,000 people. According to a team release, the entire development would stretch about 130 acres across the campus.

    Gov. Ron DeSantis has publicly signaled support for the project and discussions have been underway behind the scenes for months. The proposal would relocate HC’s oldest campus, a move that carries both promise and uncertainty for thousands of students and staff.

    The Dale Mabry campus is adjacent to Raymond James Stadium. Most of the campus buildings are more than 50 years old, making maintenance increasingly costly.

    Freshman Dania Arauc said she sees opportunity in the proposal but also has concerns.

    “I do think it’s a great opportunity, especially if it means it is going to improve the campus or things like that, like make it more modern and stuff like that,” Arauc said. “The only thing is, how will it look during the transition?”


    That transition is now the focus for campus leadership.

    Campus President Paige Niehaus said HC has been intentional about planning for both temporary and permanent solutions.

    “We’ve been very, very intentional in making sure that what works good here on Dale Mabry Campus and our thriving campus, carries over into a temporary space and then eventually a new permanent home,” Niehaus said.

    Relocating an entire college campus is no small task, especially under a tight timeline. The Rays hope to open a new stadium by the start of the 2029 season. To meet that deadline, construction would need to begin within months.

    “It will probably be a very rapid move into a temporary space,” Niehaus said. “So we are taking all the time that we have now to make sure that we are prepared for when that happens.”

    While the governor has cited ongoing maintenance costs as a reason to support the relocation, college leaders stress the importance of collaboration.

    “I think for not only the Rays to be successful, Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus needs to be successful as well,” Niehaus said. “And I think everybody has that in their best interest.”

    Behind the land discussions lies a much larger financial question: How to pay for a new stadium.

    Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa are still conducting economic impact studies to determine funding sources.

    The projected cost of the stadium itself is just over $2 billion. 

    However, some estimates suggest the total cost, including surrounding development, could climb to $8 billion.

    State approval of the land transfer would mark the clearest signal yet that Tampa is positioning itself as the Rays’ long-term home. 

    If the vote goes through today, the team would have five years to start building a stadium, or else the state could take the land back.

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    Jason Lanning

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  • Latest airport delays and cancellations due to winter storm

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    TAMPA, Fla. — If you have a flight out of Tampa International Airport today, it could be affected by winter weather up north. The airport is showing more than 100 cancellations this morning and multiple delays. The airport says if you have a flight, check with your airline for the latest information.

    Check below to see the status of all the flights at Tampa International Airport.

    **Be sure to double check your flight status on the airport website as information could be delayed**

    Tampa International Arrivals

    Tampa International Departures

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  • Protesters march in support of Ukraine as four year anniversary approaches

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Protesters gathered in downtown St. Petersburg on Sunday to call for an end to the war in Ukraine. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Protesters marched from the Dali Museum to the St. Pete Pier 

    • Protesters said the demonstration is to remind the community the war is still ongoing 

    • Tuesday marks four years since the war started


    Tuesday marks four years since the war started, when Russia invaded Ukraine. In an Associated Press article, the reason why Russia invaded Ukraine, “(Russian President Vladimir Putin’s key goals remain what he declared when Russia invaded its neighbor on Feb. 24, 2022: Ukraine must renounce joining NATO, sharply reduce the size of its army and protect Russian language and culture to keep the country in Moscow’s orbit.”

    Yuriy Tymoshemko is one of the dozens of protesters who marched from the Dali Museum to the St. Pete Pier. 

    He was born in Ukraine and is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

    “We have to remind, to say, this is one of the biggest crises to happen in the world right now,” he said.  

    He’s not the only one who feels this way. 

    Tetiana Chupryna said the fight must continue until there is security for their country. 

    “Ukraine fights for survival,” she said. “We fight for our language. We fight for our country. We fight for existing.” 

    Chupryna is with the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America. 

    She helped organize the protest. 

    She said the goal is to make sure nobody forgets about the war.

    “It’s not time to be silent, and that’s why we’re all here,” she said. “We are raising our voices and we don’t want the world to forget the word to forget about Ukraine. Ukraine is still fighting for its democracy.”

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Political Connections Florida February 23 2026

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    The clock is ticking on the Groveland Four bill, and Florida Democrats gather with faith leaders to urge Republican lawmakers to rethink their strategy.


    Driskell says Groveland Four bill stuck in House, says passing is ‘long overdue’

    The clock is ticking for lawmakers to pass the Groveland Four bill. It passed the Senate last week but has had no movement in the House.

    If approved, the bill would give $4 million to the descendants of the Groveland Four, a group of young Black men who were falsely accused of raping a white teenager in 1949.

    The bill is a priority of the Black caucus.

    House minority leader Fentrice Driskell said Monday that the bill is stuck in the House and that Democrats are trying to move it forward.

    “When it comes to some things, we really should transcend chamber; it should transcend party,” she said. “The Groveland Four, those men were wrongfully convicted, wrongfully killed, and to bring some peace and justice to that family and that community means so much.

    “And the fact that it passed the Senate is good, and it’s a signal to the House that it is time to get going. The challenge is we are at the point of session when subcommittees are going to stop meeting … I’ve been meeting with leadership about it to see if we can get it unstuck. It’s a bill whose time has come, or I should say is long overdue.”

    Two Central Florida Democrats are carrying the Groveland Four legislation.

    Lavon Bracy Davis sponsored the Senate version that passed. Rashon Young filed the House companion bill.

    Faith leaders, Democrats want immigration enforcement reined in

    Florida Democrats gathered with faith leaders to urge Republican lawmakers to rethink their strategy.

    They want them to pull back the reins on the state’s three-year emergency crackdown against illegal immigration.

    “People say there’s an immigration crisis. Let’s be clear,” said Russell Meyer, Florida Council of Churches. “We have a crisis in control and harsh enforcement of federal civic offenses.”

    Immigration remains a divisive issue in Tallahassee.

    So far, Florida has recorded roughly 20,000 immigration arrests, plus created at least two migrant camps.

    “No one is arguing against deporting violent criminals, because public safety matters,” said state Sen. Shev Jones, a Democrat from Miami Gardens. “But hear me when I tell you that there are families who have lived here for decades, like the ones that I just made mention of, people who pay taxes, people who start businesses, people who worship besides you.”

    The call comes as Gov. Ron DeSantis urges Florida Republicans to stay on course.

    The House and Senate remain split on immigration spending and emergency procedures.

    There are three weeks left in the legislative session.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Federal funding still available for hurricane recovery in Pinellas County

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas County officials say there is still hurricane recovery funding available from the $813 million it received through a community block grant last fall.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County received $813 million from a federal community block grant to help residents recover from Hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton
    • There is still funding available, so when applications slowed, Pinellas County started to host pop-up help locations 
    • Gulfport was first pop-up location, but county officials say there will be more to come in different cities

    • Pinellas County has five programs to distribute federal grant funding to residents

    • APPLY: Pinellas County Hurricane Recovery Programs


    The federal funding awarded to Pinellas County is for homeowners and residents recovering from Hurricane Idalia in 2023, and Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.

    The grant funding available to residents is through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); therefore, the county has to follow guidelines set by HUD on who will qualify. The programs are generally income-based and accept households that make up to 120% of the area’s median household income.

    While each county or city that received funding has slightly different ways of distribution, Pinellas County created five programs that it’s calling “People First Hurricane Recovery Programs.”

    The five programs focus on homeowner rehabilitation/reconstruction, homeowner reimbursement, support for landlords, homebuyer assistance and disaster-relief reimbursement that assists with things like rent or utilities.

    Pinellas Recovers program manager Erica Henry said her organization has received about 6,600 applications so far, but is hoping for more.

    “We’re in the process of going through them and evaluating for eligibly,” she said. “HUD allows us six years to fully expend the $813 million, so we are very motivated to spend that money very quickly and get it out into the community and where it needs to be.”

    In order to raise more awareness about the available funding and to help residents through the process, the county hosted a community pop-up event in Gulfport last week. Henry said they netted around 40 new applications in the last week alone, so they plan to expand to more communities in the coming weeks.

    “The citizens that we’ve talked to, and the information that we’ve gathered and the applications we’ve submitted, show this outreach is working,” she said. “It’s something we want to do throughout the county to get the word out and get applications in and get people put back together.”

    The county has two full-time help centers that are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2600 McCormick Dr., Suite 100 in Clearwater, and 5000 Park St. N., Suite 4 in St. Pete.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Tampa resident hopeful Cuba oil embargo topples regime

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa resident Rafael Pizano said his relatives in Cuba tell him the country is likely days away from running out of fuel, and he is hopeful the pressure will lead to regime change on the communist island.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Trump administration shut off the flow of oil to Cuba last month

    • The lack of fuel and tourists visiting the island has increased the economic crisis in Cuba

    • Tampa resident Rafael Pizano said his relatives in Cuba tell him the country is likely days away from running out of fuel 

    • Pizano is hopeful that the pressure will lead to regime change on the communist island


    “We welcome it,” he said. “I would rather have my family in Cuba spend a couple of months going through a tough time, more than usual, if it could lead to a transition.”

    The Trump administration shut off the flow of oil to Cuba last month with military action in Venezuela, and Mexico suspended shipments under pressure from the U.S. The lack of fuel and tourists visiting the island has increased the economic crisis in Cuba.

    “It’s actually getting tougher for the first time on the actual regime,” said Pizano, 45. “These active measures haven’t been seen in decades.”

    Pizano’s dad, Roberto, 87, was a political prisoner in Cuba for 18 years until President Jimmy Carter negotiated an exchange for his release in 1979. The end game the father and son want to see in Cuba includes pluralism in political parties, legalized labor unions and the right to vote.

    “That transition would be freedom, liberty, democracy,” said Pizano. “Change the course of history forever in Cuba in a positive way.”

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    Josh Rojas

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  • Businesses in Plant City helps others as Florida Strawberry Festival kicks off

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    PLANT CITY, Fla. — Strawberry season is a big deal in Plant City, which is known as the winter strawberry capital of the world. With the season comes the Florida Strawberry Festival, drawing in thousands of visitors, many of whom turn into repeat customers for local businesses.

    What You Need To Know

    • It draws more than 600,000 people to the city each year
    • It is foot traffic that affects local businesses like RAOK boutique


    It’s out with the old and in with the new at RAOK boutique in Plant City, as the staff prepares to launch its latest strawberry-themed collection.

    “This is our twelfth year,” said Brigitte Hodge.

    She is one of the owners and has strong roots in the community, and she has seen firsthand the effect the festival has each year.

    “It supports the farmers in the community and actually just our small town,” she said.

    For her business, that support often means an increase in foot traffic. Hannah Benton is a co-owner of the boutique.

    She said that the months after Christmas can be slow for retailers, making strawberry season a welcome boost.

    “This is not typically the busy season, so I feel that strawberry is just a wonderful fill-in,” she said.

    The tradition has grown to include everything strawberry, from candles and jewelry to t-shirts.

    And the effect goes beyond just one store. Raok works with more than 10 local businesses to bring their collections to market.

    “We work with local printers to bring it to life, so you’re supporting three small businesses with the purchase of one tee,” Hannah said.

    One of those partners is Cap and Cole. Owner Ashlynn Hotchkiss said that she has printed more than 50 shirts for Raok this year.

    Those partnerships can lead to more business long after the festival ends.

    “Somebody sees that, and they’re like, ‘Oh, Cap and Cole, she did their shirts, maybe they’ll do our shirts for this, this, and this,’ not necessarily just the festival,” Hotchkiss explained.

    Cap and Cole was founded in 2023. Ashlynn says she’s been able to connect with more people and print all designs in-house.

    For these business owners, it’s about working together during a season that brings new faces and new opportunities to town.

    “We all benefit from it,” said Brigitte.

    A busy month ahead, one many local businesses say feels like a second Christmas.

    The Florida Strawberry Festival kicks off Feb. 26 and runs through March 8.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Del Couch gives aspiring musicians the tools they need

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    PALMETTO, Fla. — Through his Del Couch Music Education Foundation, a Manatee County man is helping young people pursue their goal of being musicians, singers or even recording studio engineers.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dell Couch started the Del Couch Music Education Foundation to give back to the community after a career in music and real estate

    • The foundation provides musical instruments, lessons and opportunities to perform

    • Couch operates a production studio for student training inside the Manatee School for the Arts


    Longtime musician Del Couch said an act of kindness in high school motivated him to start his nonprofit — his band instructor gave him a trumpet so he could play in the high school band. Couch went on to play in the United States Air Force Band for several years, and then performed in bands for decades.

    Couch eventually transitioned into a real estate career, but in the 1990s he went to the Berklee College of Music and got a master’s degree in music production. He opened his own music production studio and started his foundation.

    In 2012, the Manatee School for the Arts allowed Couch to move the studio into the school.

    Couch now teaches students how to use the studio to produce music. His foundation also provides students with musical instruments and lessons, among other things.

    “It’s an opportunity rare to get,” Couch said. “Especially at no cost. That’s the biggest thing. No parent or student pays for anything.”

    On a recent morning Couch was in the studio with high school senior Jayden Bell to work on the mix for some Latin-style music.

    “And we are doctoring the mix,” Couch said. “So, he is going to add a little sparkle to the drums. And a little bottom to the bass.”

    Bell has been training in the recording studio for four years and sees it as invaluable.

    “Well, I get the opportunity to do stuff that you can’t really do anywhere else in the country with people that have been doing this a long time that want to do this for the love of it,” he said.

    Dell also works with lots of the students at the school who are forming bands. He gives them advice on their performances and sets up music events where the bands can play in front of large crowds.

    “They get an opportunity to play in these events on major stages that they would never get before,” he said.

    Many of Couch’s students have gone on to success in the music business.

    “For example, Bella Garland, who is our latest girl in Nashville, won the Bluebird Café songwriting competition,” Couch said. “It is huge and is recognized by the national songwriter’s competition.”

    Couch said he gets a great deal of satisfaction from working with the students.

    “The biggest thing is their enthusiasm,” he said. “They are willing to learn. They want this knowledge and to see them become successful.”

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    Rick Elmhorst

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  • Bayside Bridge to take on new name Tuesday in honor of long-time attorneys

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The Bayside Bridge officially gets a new name on Tuesday.

    The county is renaming the bridge the Dillinger McCabe Bayside Bridge.

    The new name is in honor of long-time public defender Bob Dillinger and long-time state attorney Bernie McCabe.

    Pinellas County commissioners approved the name change in January.

    According to our newsgathering partners at the Tampa Bay Times, Commissioner Chris Latvala pursued the name change after Dillinger’s death in 2024, and that his wife supported the idea.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Jack Hughes scores in overtime as U.S. beats Canada for gold at Olympics

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    MILAN (AP) — No miracle needed. The United States is on top of the hockey world for the first time in nearly a half-century.

    Jack Hughes scored 1:41 into overtime and the U.S. defeated Canada 2-1 in the gold medal final at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Sunday, claiming the nation’s third men’s title at the Games and its first since the “Miracle on Ice” on 1980.

    Unlike that ragtag group of college kids that pulled off one of the biggest upsets in sports history 46 years ago by knocking off the heavily favored Soviet Union, the Americans in Milan were a machine that rode goaltender Connor Hellebuyck and a stacked roster full of NHL players through the tournament unbeaten.

    Hellebuyck was by far the best player on the ice, stopping 41 of the 42 shots he faced as Canada tilted the ice toward him. He made the save of the tournament by getting his stick on the puck on a shot from Devon Toews in the third period, then minutes later denied Macklin Celebrini on a breakaway — something he also did to Connor McDavid earlier.

    It was only fitting they needed to go through Canada, their northern neighbor that beat them at the 4 Nations Face-Off a year ago and has claimed hockey supremacy for quite some time, winning every international competition over the past 16 years that featured the world’s best players.

    Not anymore.

    Winning a fast-paced, riveting game that was full of big hits and plenty of post-whistle altercations, the U.S. got a goal from Matt Boldy 6 minutes in and led until Cale Makar tied it late in the second period. Hellebuyck and the penalty kill was a perfect 18 for 18 at the Olympics.

    The U.S. finally came through after generations of churning out talent from the grassroots level like a production line. All but two of the 25 players on the team went through USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.

    That group of 23 includes captain Auston Matthews, the top line of Brady and Matthew Tkachuk and Jack Eichel, and the second set of brothers, Jack and Quinn Hughes. Much of the team played together either at the program, under-18s, the world junior championship or some combination of them.

    The U.S. winning silenced criticism of general manager Bill Guerin and his management group choosing a roster full of experienced veteran players to fill specific roles and leaving four of the top 10 American goal-scorers in the NHL this season at home. Some decisions were no-doubters, like coach Mike Sullivan giving the net to Hellebuyck, who was the best goalie in the tournament.

    Canada, back-to-back Olympic champions in 2010 and ’14 and winners of three of the first five, fell short while playing without injured captain Sidney Crosby. The 38-year-old two-time gold medalist and three-time Stanley Cup champion left the quarterfinal game against Czechia and sat out the semifinal game against Finland.

    McDavid, the widely considered best player in the world who wore the “C” in Crosby’s absence, suffered another devastating defeat on the doorstep of a title. He and the Edmonton Oilers have lost to Matthew Tkachuk and the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final each of the past two years.

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    Associated Press

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  • Hillsborough County Public Defender brings free legal help directly to community

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    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — In a first-of-its-kind event, the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office offered free legal help and additional resources in Tampa.

    The initiative is called PD 13 Street Legal, which brought legal services directly to Tampa residents.

    What You Need To Know

    • PD 13 Street Legal brought legal services directly to Tampa residents

    • The initiative was organized by the Hillsborough County Public Defender

    • Wraparound services were also offered at the inaugural event

    • The event will be held on the third Saturday of every month


    “This has been my area, my neighborhood, but I had never seen this right here,” said Tampa resident Cornelius Trussell.

    Trussell has lived in the University area of Tampa his whole life. He stopped in PD 13 Street Legal looking for legal help for his wife. He has a part-time job but he’s hoping to get assistance finding a full-time warehouse job.

    “I’m good with my hands, so I like doing stuff like that, and being active as well,” he said.

    Public defender Lisa McLean said she felt that many clients have challenges when it comes to meeting with their attorney, so she wanted to bring their services to them. McLean said it’s all about communication.

    “We’re not about, ‘Hey, let’s move these people through the system. Let’s plead out as many cases. We can try the cases that we need to and just keep things moving.’ That’s not what we do here. We take a holistic approach to what we do,” she said.

    At Saturday’s event, that holistic approach included wraparound services. Community partners helped with different types of needs like food insecurity, public transportation, mental health, drug treatment and more.

    “We’re really hoping that not only can we provide these services to the clients that we currently represent, but if we have an opportunity to meet with people in the community before they get involved in the criminal justice system, it gives us the opportunity to make real change in the community,” McLean said.

    Trussel was grateful for the support and said PD 13 Street Legal is a great event for the neighborhood.

    “There’s nothing that can’t possibly get done with all these resources here. So that’s amazing,” Trussell said.

    It’s help that Trussell hopes he can return one day.

    If you missed Saturday, there will be future events. It will be held on the third Saturday of every month.

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    Tyler O’Neill

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