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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — They’re being called a potentially transformative change to transportation in Tampa Bay.
While it’s uncertain when advanced air mobility aircraft (AAM) will start carrying passengers in the region, St. Petersburg is one of the municipalities getting ready for them.
“You want to be ready for the latest technology. You want to be prepared. You don’t want to be reactive when something kind of comes on the horizon,” said Ed Montanari, chair of St. Petersburg’s Advanced Air Mobility Task Force.
During an interview at Albert Whitted Airport, Montanari pointed out a model of the first commercial airliner. A sign on the display says it took off from downtown more than 110 years ago.
“A lot of people don’t know this, but the airline business started right here in St. Petersburg in 1914, and this is the newest airborne transportation system that’s coming along,” said Montanari.
A report from the task force describes AAM as “an emerging sector of the aviation industry that enables the quick and efficient transport of passengers or cargo over short distances.”
While the report says this encompasses different kinds of aircraft, the most common kind being developed is the electric vertical take off and landing aircraft, or eVTOL.
Montanari said they haven’t been approved by the FAA yet, but that could happen later this year or early next. Thursday, he told city council what can be done to prepare.
“I think it’s going to be transformative to transportation throughout the region, and the state, and around the world,” he told Spectrum News.
Improvements to Albert Whitted Airport were among the recommendations. They included creating AAM parking spots and installing electrical charging stations and fire safety systems in the next three years. It says one or more vertiports — or takeoff and landing sites — should be built in the next decade.
“I see the first place these aircraft are going to operate out of would be right here at the airport,” said Montanari.
He also said there’s a potential for standalone vertiports in different areas of the city, like downtown. He compared those sites to helipads on the tops of tall buildings in New York City. Montanari said AAMs would first operate out of the airport.
Council Member Brandi Gabbard said a critical part of getting the introduction of AAMs right will be cooperation beyond St. Pete.
“I think we can look at our transit today and note that if there had been regional collaboration decades ago, we would be in a much different place,” Gabbard said during the meeting.
The task force’s report does recommend working with regional planners to develop flight corridors to link Whitted with Tampa International Airport and other facilities.
“We also want to capture the jobs that might come with these new vehicles, the education, the training, and then the manufacturing,” said Montanari. “We’re going for it all right here. We really wanted to plant the flag of — this is the home of commercial aviation, we want to keep it the home of commercial aviation.”
Montanari said next, a study is needed to determine where at Whitted the infrastructure and landing spots should be.
TERRA CEIA, Fla. — A Florida Senate bill that would protect the ecosystem near Rattlesnake Key has passed unanimously.
What You Need To Know
The Florida Senate unanimously passed SB 302, which includes an amendment to prohibit dredging in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, a key environmental protection near Rattlesnake Key
A proposed cruise port could still move forward because the House companion bill does not yet include the same dredging ban language
Manatee County business owner Corey McKeever of McKeever’s Marine gathered more than 19,000 petition signatures opposing the cruise terminal
SB 302 includes an amendment from State Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, that prohibits dredging in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve.
However, the companion bill in the House does not include that specific provision, meaning a proposed cruise port south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, where larger ships could dock, could still move forward if the House bill is not revised.
Corey McKeever, owner of McKeever’s Marine, recently took on a passion project to protect that area from a cruise terminal.
“I knew it would destroy everything about Manatee County,” he said.
He has lived in Manatee County for decades and has owned the business for 15 years.
“I do everything on boats. When I was younger, I went fishing every day. I would skip school to go fishing at the Skyway,” he said. “We do 10 boats a week.”
McKeever believes his petition against the cruise port — which more than 19,000 people signed — has helped the effort to stop the project.
“It did help. I would think with the amount of outreach people had, reaching out to the commissioners, the senators directly, anyone that could do anything for this,” he said.
SSA Marine, which submitted the proposal for the cruise port, declined an interview but provided a statement.
“SSA Marine is committed to environmental stewardship and creating long-term economic opportunities that we are confident will be transformative for Manatee County. We look forward to continuing to engage with residents, officials, and community leaders in meaningful dialogue to discuss a shared vision for the region,” the company said.
Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique says he supports the amendment that would prohibit dredging in Terra Ceia.
“I spoke to our delegation and with some members of the State Affairs Committee, which is where it will be going through. I have been told there will be some companion language coming through to match the Senate version,” he said.
He also says he does not believe the cruise port project would come before county commissioners anytime soon.
“This is such a massive project, and there are single-family home projects that take a long time to come to us. I would suspect next year, maybe even bleeding into 2028, if this moves forward,” he said.
For McKeever, if the proposal does not move forward, he says it will be a job well done.
“I think it’s going to be great for Florida in general, keeping the environment — what we moved here for — to enjoy Florida,” he said.
McKeever says he believes in protecting the environment and hopes others will continue working with him to preserve Manatee County’s ecosystem.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A ceremonial ribbon cutting for the new $59 million Bernie McCabe Second District Court of Appeal courthouse in downtown St. Petersburg will be held on Saturday, along with a tour for community leaders.
What You Need To Know
A ceremonial ribbon cutting for the new Bernie McCabe Second District Court of Appeal courthouse in downtown St. Petersburg will be held on Saturday
The three-story courthouse along Mirror Lake in downtown St. Petersburg cost $59 million
It serves six counties: Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto
The courthouse is named after Bernie McCabe, who was the State Attorney for Pinellas and Pasco Counties for nearly 30 years, before his death in 2021
“This is a way for us to recognize all of the partners who have helped us along the way to make this happen,” said Chief Judge Matt Lucas. “A way for us to formally announce to everyone, ‘Hey, we’re here, we’re open for business, we’re part of this community and we’re excited to get to work.’”
Lucas said staff began moving into the courthouse in December, with the first oral arguments held last month. Construction at the site, located at 525 Mirror Lake Drive North, began in 2023. The appeal courthouse opened on budget and on time, according to Lucas.
The 59,000 square-foot building features a single courtroom, suites for 15 judges and workspace for 96 staff members. Lucas said the community room, which the court provides as a meeting space for local bar associations, has become very popular.
“I will tell you, my phone has been ringing off the hook,” he said. “I had no idea there was so much pent up demand in St Petersburg, but we’re thrilled it’s getting used.”
The courtroom is the crown jewel of the three-story building featuring the latest technology and sound absorbing acoustic panels on the walls. Attorney Kevin Hayslett said it’s the envy of most judges in the state.
“It is pristine. It’s the talk of every appellate judge in the state,” he said. “We’ve got the best courtroom in the state right here in St. Pete.”
Chief Judge Matt Lucas in the new courtroom. (Spectrum News/Josh Rojas)
A panel of three appellate court judges serve the Sixth Judicial Circuit (Pinellas and Pasco counties), the 13th Circuit (Hillsborough County) and the 12th Circuit (Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties). Lucas said the state chose to build the courthouse in St. Petersburg because of its centralized location.
“Being right in the center downtown, it’s fitting. It makes sense,” he said. “It’s a place where everyone, when they walk by, whether they have business here or not, they know, yeah, the second DCA is doing the work that they’re supposed to be doing for the people in our district.”
Before moving into the new courthouse, the judges and staff were working out of the Stetson Law Center in Tampa and a leased building in Lakeland. In 2016, the second DCA had to abandon its courthouse in Lakeland due to structural and air-quality issues.
Lucas said while everything in the courtroom is brand new, they did bring a few pieces of the past to honor traditions.
“These oak tables are the original council tables from the Lakeland courthouse,” he said. “We have the original gavel up on the bench there.”
The courthouse is named after Bernie McCabe, who was the State Attorney for Pinellas and Pasco Counties for nearly 30 years. He died on Jan. 1, 2021, at the age of 73. Hayslett worked as a prosecutor under McCabe. He said naming the courthouse after McCabe honors his legacy of public service.
“When you think about Bernie McCabe, you think of a person that he believed in law and order,” Lucas said. “He believed in the right of law and people to appeal their sentences even when it didn’t go their way. That’s Bernie McCabe.”
Lucas said a modern courthouse must have two important functions to fulfill, security and technology.
“Keeping up with technology and leaving room for new technology,” he said. “This building has numerous security features and layered security features.”
Having an office overlooking Mirror Lake makes it really easy to work at the courthouse, Lucas said, and he’s not looking to leave anytime soon.
“We are here to stay,” he said. “I have every intention of being here for as long as the people of Florida will have me.”
BRADENTON, Fla. — The biggest event of the year for the cities of Bradenton and Palmetto kicks off Friday evening with a high-energy start before a weekend packed with world-class racing, family-friendly events and an expected crowd topping 100,000.
The 11th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta begins with “Friday Night Flash” from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring live music, food vendors, entertainment and a drone show that will light up the sky over the Manatee River.
The Green Bridge will be closed to traffic Saturday that spans the Manatee River between Bradenton and Palmetto
Friday Night Flash kicks off on Friday at 5 p.m. with live music and food vendors, followed by a drone show over the Manatee River
But this year’s regatta is being described as a turning point for the event — thanks to major additions on the water.
For the first time, Formula 1 powerboats will headline the races, replacing Formula 2 boats. The difference is speed.
Formula 1 boats can top 150 miles per hour and accelerate from 0 to 100 miles per hour in under five seconds. At peak speed, the boats skim so lightly across the surface that they are barely touching the water.
Another new category will feature tri-hull boats, capable of reaching speeds up to 100 miles per hour.
Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown says with new racing categories, the more than decade-old regatta feels like year one all over again.
“This is kind of year one. Because when you think about it, going into the 11th year, with bringing in the new boats and really having 40 boats, that is going to change the dynamics of what is happening,” said Brown. “But without the sponsorships, without all the city staff, with everybody over the 11 years, we wouldn’t be anywhere where we are.”
The regatta will also host the first-ever Florida Formula 1 Championships.
While high-speed racing is the main attraction, the weekend will see several community events on and off the water, including the LECOM 5k Run and the DeSoto Little Anglers Fishing Tournament.
Brown says the event has grown significantly over the past decade and helped define the area.
The races begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. The best viewing location is the Green Bridge, which spans the Manatee River between Bradenton and Palmetto.
However, the bridge will be closed all day Saturday during the races.
Organizers say there will be plenty of parking available on both sides of the river.
With a drone show Friday night, faster boats on the water and tens of thousands expected to attend, this year’s regatta is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet.
POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Two westbound lanes of Interstate 4 are open near the Champions Gate entrance after a depression closed the roadway on Thursday evening.
The lanes were reopened just before 6 a.m.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said the area impacted is between exits 55 (Haines City) and 58, past Champions Gate.
Westbound traffic was being rerouted to the Ronald Reagan Pkwy near the Champions Gate entrance to US Hwy 27 and then back onto I-4 westbound.
Construction crews continue to work on the depression.
Pantone’s “Cloud Dancer” may be the 2026 Color of the Year, but what other home design trends are taking over this year? We asked local design and home industry experts to share their insights on 2026 design trends and the products that are becoming a favorite.
“This year, I see a continuing color trend of rich tones—deep teals, muted greens and warm neutrals, for example,” says Danielle Muecke of Muecke Design & Construction.
Color isn’t the only change to expect; textures and materials are getting a revamp as well.
“Our 2026 design trend forecast is that we will continue to ride the all-natural wood grain and stain wave, however, think darker stains like walnut and more variations of marbles, granite and real stone materials,” says Rachel Simpson, Senior Interior Designer of Revive Design and Renovation.
When it comes to countertops, quartzite is still a favorite for local designer Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors.
“A lot of that comes down to the horizontal veining and flow,” Roe says. “Being a Florida-based firm, so many of our projects are on the water, and the movement in the stone feels like a subtle nod to the ocean or lake outside.”
Carin Zwiebel of Carin Zwiebel Interior Designs notes that 2026 isn’t about what’s new, but rather a return to classic and enduring materials like plaster finishes, Moroccan glazed tiles and warm, aged brass.
“Deep, saturated colors, architectural curves, warm woods and metal accents set the tone, while timeless elements like herringbone and marble ground the space,” she says.
GULFPORT, Fla. — An expanded Gulfport Senior Center may soon become a reality.
What You Need To Know
The Gulfport Senior Center was built in 1983
The center sees three times the amount of traffic in 2026 compared to 2013
Preliminary designs will be shown at the March 3 city council meeting
Preliminary concepts for an expansion will be unveiled at the council chambers on March 3.
City leaders have been talking about the project since 2014, but there have been multiple delays.
Senior Center Supervisor Rachel Cataldo started working at the center in 2013. She said they serve at least three times more people compared to when she started.
“At that time, we were seeing about 200 people a day,” she said. “Now we’re seeing 600 to 800 a day.”
There have been challenges that have arisen because of that growth.
Cataldo said there are programs they can’t offer at the center because there’s no room.
“I would say about ten programs that we cannot accommodate here at this space,” she said. “Taichi class that has 80 people in it, we would not be able to support that here at the center.”
For 65-year-old Karen Peterson, the senior center is like a second home. She’s been coming for seven years and plays in the center’s harmonica club band.
Peterson sees the potential expansion as a chance to make the center even better.
She even has a few things on her wish list.
“Probably expand the rooms for activities, or the weights, or the multi-purpose room,” she said. “I’d love to see Gulfport have a municipal pool.”
Cataldo said the council has committed to covering 50% of the cost. However, the total cost is not yet known.
She said that it would likely be announced at that meeting.
According to Spectrum Bay News 9 partner newspaper, the Tampa Bay Times, the possible land gift is listed as an agenda item for a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24.
DeSantis, along with Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred, has come out in support of the project.
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.
The college campus is located on North Dale Mabry Highway, across from Raymond James Stadium.
Rays officials have said they want to be in the new ballpark for the 2029 season. The team’s lease with St. Petersburg at the newly renovated Tropicana Field expires after the 2028 season.
According to a potential deal, the college would own the land and could negotiate its use with the Rays. Construction of the stadium could cost an estimated $2.3 billion.
The team’s new owners, led by developer Patrick Zalupski, have said they would fund 50 percent of the stadium costs.
City, county and state officials have yet to officially discuss any other funding sources, though property taxes on the nearby area, a half-cent county sales tax and a tourist tax have all been mentioned.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando unveiled a new multi-day ticket option on Thursday morning, which gives guests access to all four of its theme parks.
What You Need To Know
Universal Orlando unveiled a new multi-day ticket option, which gives guests access to all four of its theme parks
The ticket offers access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay and the new Universal Epic Universe
Park officials also shared that, for a limited time, guests can purchase the new six- or seven-day ticket for the price of a five-day ticket
The new ticket, which park officials say is designed to “complement its evolution into a weeklong vacation destination,” offers six or seven days of park-to-park access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay and the new Universal Epic Universe, Universal officials stated.
Park officials also announced that, for a limited time, guests can purchase the new six- or seven-day ticket for the price of a five-day ticket.
The new multi-day ticket, available to U.S. residents, can be paired with a “special, value-driven hotel offer” with a $300 hotel dining credit when booking a stay of five nights or longer at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Aventura Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — For three nights, 50 blocks of Central Avenue in St. Pete will be illuminated with a rainbow of laser lights.
The lights will project off the roof of the Mari Jean Hotel and end at a vacant building in South Pasadena. The lasers will cover a more than 2-mile stretch of Central Avenue.
Depending on viewpoint, the lights could appear in a rainbow arch or shooting straight into the sky. At other angles, they may appear flatter and more parallel to the ground.
What You Need To Know
Global Rainbow will be in St. Pete from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21
The laser art installation is in response to the state’s decision to get rid of street murals
Laser lights will be projected from the roof of the Cocktail building to South Pasadena
Show is funded by donations to Winter Pride St. Pete
“The rainbow is like sacred geometry… it just works together,” said artist Yvette Mattern. “That’s why it’s such a powerful symbol.”
Mattern created the Global Rainbow art installation over two decades ago. Equipped with large cases that house custom rainbow lasers, Mattern has traveled the world lighting up landmarks in Berlin, London, Belfast, São Paulo and many American cities.
Local street murals that were painted over last summer following the state decision included the “Back the Blue” mural near the Tampa Police Department, the “Black History Matters” mural by the Woodson Museum in St. Pete, and the large rainbow crosswalk in St. Pete’s Grand Central District.
HAPPENING TONIGHT// A rainbow of laser lights will project 50 blocks down Central Ave in St. Pete.
Organizers say its a direct response to the state’s decision to get rid of street murals in Florida. That included the large rainbow crosswalk in the Grand Central District @BN9pic.twitter.com/TFanLxI4dC
When the rainbow crosswalk was painted over, Winter Pride St. Pete organizer Rob Hall said he wanted to do something big. Hall says after coming out as an adult, the rainbow crosswalk pushed him to move to St. Pete.
“When I saw that, I felt accepted right away,” Hall said, speaking of the former crosswalk. “Now we need to find things and ways to show our community, no matter who you are… visiting, local, where you’re from, that this is a safe space.”
Hall connected with Mattern and arranged for her Global Rainbow to spend three nights in St. Pete during the annual Winter Pride week. The show is funded by donations to Winter Pride St. Pete.
Mattern said the laser art installation can be seen up to 60 miles away, depending on visibility.
Global Rainbow begins at dusk on Thursday, Feb. 19. It will run from nightfall until 3 a.m. through Saturday night.
TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida dry season usually runs from November through May, and with that comes fire danger. This is usually due to low humidity and reduced rainfall.
Due to the enhanced fire danger, burn bans are in effect for the Tampa Bay area. A burn ban prohibits burning outdoors as well as fireworks, sparklers and fire pits. Outdoor grilling is allowed as long as flames are contained within a grill and the fire is constantly attended.
Here are some safety tips to prevent fires:
Remove fuels that can lead flames to your home or that can be ignited by windblown embers.
Clear away dead grass, leaves, twigs, and branches from structures, roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways.
Store firewood at least 30 feet from occupied structures.
Plant landscaping that retains moisture and resists ignition, such as native, fire-resistant vegetation.
Help emergency responders find your home faster by making sure that street numbers are easy to read.
Know where the closest firefighting water source is to your home or building.
Dispose of cigarette butts properly.
Pick up light-refracting metal items, such as soda cans, that can spark a fire.
Don’t park vehicles over high grass that could come into contact with hot engines and other components.
INTERACTIVE MAP: LATEST WILDFIRES
Click/tap on the fire icons to get more information on that particular fire.
3. FDOT seeks public input on options for Longboat Key Bridge State transportation officials are asking the public for input on the future of the State Road 789 Bridge on Longboat Key — a decision that could significantly affect traffic and businesses on the island.
4. Grant to revitalize North Greenwood area gets boost Clearwater City Council recently approved a boost to the North Greenwood CRA Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program. Our story includes a link to the application.
Mikaela Shiffrin’s fourth trip to the Olympics came with a golden ending. The skiing star won the slalom on the world’s biggest stage for the first time in 12 years with a triumphant performance in Cortina. The 30-year-old Shiffrin said she’s learned to block out the noise and pressure that comes with competing at the Games.
She instead has tried focus on the joy of skiing that drew her to the sport in the first place. Shiffrin says she knows she would have invited more criticism if she had faltered, but added the challenge of finding her best was worth the risk.
CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Earlier this week, Florida Wildlife Corridor Day took place at the State Capitol.
The main event was an exhibit provided by Save Crystal River, highlighting how state-funded projects are helping Florida’s waterways and communities. The group says there are currently three iniatives: continuing the planting of seagrass, opening of spring vents and the placing of exo-forms which would help break waves.
What You Need To Know
Florida Wildlife Corridor Day took place earlier this week in Tallahassee, with Save Crystal River showcasing an exhibit
That exhibit highlighted how state-funded projects are helping Florida’s waterways and communities
Their goal is to ensure the survival of the waterways and those who call it home
“It’s not a series of problems that are unique just to Crystal River and Citrus County,” said Lisa Moore, President of Save Crystal River. “All up and down the coast there have been places where those exo-forms would be useful to try to protect your shoreline.”
And those conservation efforts to save Florida’s waterways are taking stage in Crystal River.
Along the water outside the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Lace Blue-McLean and K.C. Nayfield take in a spectacular view.
“Our main mission is literally to support the Crystal River refuge complex- Chassahowitzka, Crystal River, and Three Sisters Springs,” said Blue-McLean.
The two are the president and vice president of the Friends of the Crystal River Wildlife National Refuge. It’s a nonprofit dedicated to protecting these waterways, which are at risk, they say, of pollutants and other threats.
“We’re loving it to death,” said Blue-McLean. “It’s just the management of finding that balance … of tourists that come and enjoy this wonderful area without destroying it at the same time and overusing it.”
The group is working to protect the refuge and partnering with Save Crystal River. They’re raising funds for platforms and a manatee rescue ramp at Three Sisters Springs. The goal is to ensure the survival of the waterways and those who call it home.
“Three Sisters Springs is a key place for releasing manatees back into the wild,” Blue-McLean said. “This ramp needs to be spruced up a little bit. So with that, with the platforms and the fishing pier we just added on that ramp, it’s up to $400,000 and we’re almost there.”
“Once Three Sisters is done, we have some other ideas with improving access to some of the other parts of the refuge with boardwalks and viewing towers elsewhere,” said Nayfield. “So our work is never going to be done.”
It’s a tireless effort, Nayfield says. One that goes beyond preserving, as education also plays a key role. That can be seen inside the visitor center.
“We need to keep it up. Keep providing the public with access to learn about nature, why we have the nature, of course, and why it’s worth preserving and seeing these beautiful creatures that inhabit the property and realizing they need to be conserved and preserved as well,” Nayfield said.
So that others may enjoy nature like this.
“People come to the Nature Coast for all of the natural resources that we have here in Citrus County, which is the largest in the state of Florida by the way,” said Blue-McLean. “We want to continue to protect that because once it’s gone, it’s gone.”
LARGO, Fla. — Students in Pinellas County Schools will have to pay a fee to play school sports. The school board made the decision at Tuesday’s board workshop, and school officials say it’s to help expand offerings to student athletes.
What You Need To Know
The fee will be $50 per sport, with a max of $200 per family.
The schools athletic director says other school districts have implemented similar fees to keep up with rising athletic costs.
Parents say they hope some of the money from the fee is used to support current sports as well, and not just going towards new programs.
It is $50 per sport, with a max of $200 per family. Parents who talked to Spectrum Bay News 9 say they support school sports, but the price to play keeps rising and they worry some families won’t be able to afford it.
“I mean, if my daughter wants to play sports, I’m going to find a way, but I think for some families it might be a little bit harder,” said Katrina Piparo.
Piparo’s daughter, Alyvia, cheers and plays flag football for Hollins High School. She says she loves participating in both sports, but admits, even without the new $50 fee, per sport, it can be pricey.
“For example, flag football, you have to buy your cleats, you have to buy your gloves. There’s a lot of purchases that need to be made for sports once the kids get started,” she said.
While she feels it’s money well spent, she worries the added fee to play may be more than some families can afford. But Marc Allison, who is the athletic director for Pinellas County Schools, says there will be help for families who need it.
“We know that our athletes, students that get involved and are engaged in school in any way, shape or form, have a greater academic success story. They have better connections, less behavior challenges, and those kinds of things, and by continuing to offer more and more opportunities, we are able to reach out to kids that might not have had these opportunities other ways,” he said.
Allison says the district will use the money from the fees to add sport programs to both middle and high schools. He says other school districts have implemented similar fees to keep up with rising athletic costs.
“As we continue to expand and offer opportunities we know that there’s rising costs already with the cost of officials, the cost of transportation, uniform costs, all those things rise, and we don’t want to sacrifice the excellence that’s already occurring in our schools,” said Allison.
Donna Munera’s son is 15 and is on the track and swim team at his high school. She says she understands the budget restraints school districts are facing, and, personally knowing what a difference sports can have on your life, she is willing to contribute.
“It’s so much more than just playing a game, and I know it needs funding, and I personally am willing to help with that funding, I hope the community is,” she said.
Parents say they hope some of the money from the fee is used to support current sports as well, and not just going towards new programs. Munera mentioned that her son’s track team can’t afford to pay for a school bus to take them to meets, and it often falls on parents and coaches to make up for things the teams are lacking.
Pasco and Polk County schools both have participation fees, similar to what Pinellas is implementing. Hillsborough County Schools only has a participation fee for lacrosse, and Citrus County Schools is considering adding a fee — they say they will decided over the summer.
ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — The historically designated Pass-a-Grille shuffleboard clubhouse was demolished on Thursday after being substantially damaged by hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
What You Need To Know
The historically designated Pass-a-Grille shuffleboard clubhouse was demolished on Thursday
The 90-year-old structure was substantially damaged by hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024
The historic building was originally a beach shelter in Gulfport, before being moved by barge to St. Pete Beach in the late 1920s
The budget for the new shuffleboard clubhouse is $166,000 and is expected to be a pavilion type structure
“We had hoped more than anything it could be saved,” said Bonnie Gustafson, club member. “The city did the research and just decided it was the best choice.”
The 90-year-old building was originally a beach shelter in Gulfport, before being moved by barge to St. Pete Beach in the late 1920s. A demo crew contracted by the city for $9,000 used a backhoe to tear down the historical building, which had pink exterior walls, two bathrooms, air conditioning, storage space and a cedar plank ceiling.
“It’s just sad because we just thought it would always be here,” said Carla Kegel, club member. “It’s just been a big part of our life.”
Pass-a-Grille Shuffleboard Club President John Gustafson managed to take out a few items from the clubhouse before the demolition began.
“We salvaged this nice window. The plan is to put a number of photos, memorabilia and stuff from the shuffleboard club in here,” he said. “When they build a new structure, we’ll be able to have some memorabilia in the new building.”
City Commissioner Jon Maldonado, who represents Pass-a-Grille, said that demolition was the only fiscally responsible thing to do with the damaged historic structure.
“It’s bittersweet. We know that we needed to do it. It wasn’t something that we wanted to do,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it was what was necessary. So it’s an emotional day for the community.”
Public Services Director Camden Mills said feedback from community meetings showed club members wanted the new clubhouse to be a shade structure with storage for shuffleboard equipment and restrooms. It’ll be similar to a pavilion type structure.
Rendering of the new clubhouse
“The commission is excited to hear what that’s going to look like,” said Maldonado. “We have not voted on it.”
Mills said the budget for the new shuffleboard clubhouse is $166,000 and the city will be advertising a request for bid. The public services director expects to present it to city commissioners for approval in about 6 months.
“I’m just happy that the city realizes the significance and the importance of having a shelter,” said Bonnie Gustafson. “It breaks our heart that it’s not keeping the original.”
The amendment clarifies that dredging would only be allowed to improve the quality of the preserve, remove stagnant waters or maintain marinas, boat ramps and piers.
The cruise company announced last month that it wants to build a terminal capable of docking larger cruise ships that can’t fit under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Hundreds of people rallied against the proposal.
The pushback against the port has also led to some Manatee County government employees to receive threats.
New Entertainment District to Break Ground on Water Street in 2027 Strategic Property Partners has unveiled plans for a new entertainment district in downtown Tampa that will include a 3,500-seat live music and performance venue, a 250-room hotel, about 100,000 square feet of dining, retail and entertainment space, and 1,000 parking spaces. The developer plans to partner with Vinik Sports Group to manage the proposed district, which will be built on a vacant site along Channelside Drive, across from Benchmark International Arena, between Morgan and Jefferson streets.
Tampa Bay School Districts Hit Record Graduation Rates High school graduation rates reached record highs across local school districts during the 2024–25 school year. Hillsborough County Public Schools, the nation’s seventh-largest district, posted a graduation rate of 90.9%. Pinellas County Schools followed at 93.4%, while Pasco County Schools led the region at 96.9%, marking the highest rate each district has recorded. Tampa Bay Technical High School topped Hillsborough County’s 69 high schools with a 99.1% graduation rate.
Another Tampa Local Earns Grammy Nomination Singer-songwriter Destin Conrad, a 25-year-old R&B musician who already has two albums to his name, has been nominated for a 2026 Grammy Award for best progressive R&B album for his debut album, “Love on Digital.”
Plans Advance for 21-Story Luxury Apartment Tower in St. Petersburg A $134 million, 21-story luxury apartment tower called The Pelican has been approved for downtown St. Petersburg. The 370-unit project will replace seven buildings in the Downtown St. Petersburg National Register Historic District on a 1.3-acre site along Fifth Avenue North. The development will include 3,819 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and a 485-space parking garage, with a double-height lobby and residential and retail uses lining the lower levels.
05. Three Planned Developments Near Armature Works Three new development plans near Armature Works in downtown Tampa have been filed. A seven-story mixed-use building at Palm Avenue and North Boulevard would feature 363 apartments, 75,000+ square feet of commercial space, and 647 parking spots. A 25-story residential tower with 265 apartments and 8,000+ square feet of retail is planned west of the Sprouts parking garage, while a six-story, 155-room hotel is proposed east of Sprouts along Tampa Street near the YMCA Central City Development.
CHICAGO — A celebration of life for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson will take place next week in Chicago, his family announced Wednesday. His body will lie in state at the headquarters of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition he founded 30 years ago to advocate for civil rights and economic justice, followed by a church service and final celebration Feb. 28, the family said.
What You Need To Know
A celebration of life for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson will take place next week in Chicago, his family announced Wednesday
His body will lie in state at the headquarters of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition he founded 30 years ago to advocate for civil rights and economic justice, followed by a church service and final celebration Feb. 28, the family said
“Dad’s homegoing services, which are difficult for all of us to accept, are just that: a national and international gathering and meeting of people most importantly from our community who uplifted him and put him on a perch that allowed him to share a vision with all people,” Jesse Jackson Jr. said at a news conference Wednesday with his siblings
Jackson Jr. said his father’s funeral is “not for those of you who have an opinion” but for “people who are coming to pay their respects”
“Dad’s homegoing services, which are difficult for all of us to accept, are just that: a national and international gathering and meeting of people most importantly from our community who uplifted him and put him on a perch that allowed him to share a vision with all people,” Jesse Jackson Jr. said at a news conference Wednesday with his siblings.
A two-time presidential candidate who fought for social justice in the decades following the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, Jackson died Tuesday at the age of 84.
Jackson was a young community organizer in Chicago when he was called to meet with King at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, shortly before King was killed. From that point on, he positioned himself as King’s successor, advocating for the poor and underrepresented on issues from voting rights and job opportunities to education and health care.
On Wednesday, his children pledged to continue advocating for the same causes and encouraged younger generations to follow in their father’s footsteps.
“Now this mantle of standing up for freedom, standing up for dignity, standing up for those that have been marginalized is now passed on — not to be inherited by a person, but to be taken over and taken up by another generation,” the reverend’s second oldest son, Rep. Jonathan Jackson, D-Ill., said Wednesday. “It’s a continuous fight as we see the rollbacks of our rights that he’s fought so hard for are now being challenged.”
As the Trump administration works to root out diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in government and the country, the congressman said, “DEI has been a major part of my father’s work. These are the guardrails to fight against racism and to bring about inclusion to make this a better country.”
One week after President Donald Trump was sworn in for his second term in January 2025, Rep. Jackson said he formed the DEI Caucus with Rep. Cleo Fields, D-La.
“We can’t say we’ve made enough progress on race and equity and racial justice,” he said, adding that U.S. DOGE Service cuts to federal agencies last year disproportionately affected African American women. “This is not one man or one woman’s work.”
Jackson Jr. credited his father with opening the door to the 62 African Americans who currently serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and the five who serve in the Senate.
Jackson Jr. called on his congressman brother to “find creative ways to do something” about unpaid home health care providers in the United States, saying he and his five siblings had each provided caregiving for their father, who lived with the rare brain disorder known as progressive supranuclear palsy for a decade before his death.
Jackson Jr. said his father’s funeral is “not for those of you who have an opinion” but for “people who are coming to pay their respects.”
“We expect a grand meeting of people who are beneficiaries of the life and the work of Jesse Jackson,” he said. “We expect it from the far right, and they are welcome if they come respectfully, and we expect it from the far left to honor Mrs. Jesse Jackson. This is her request.”
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch delivered his State of the City address on Wednesday.
He took a look back at storm recovery, affordable housing challenges and the ongoing issues with trying to redevelop Tropicana Field.
What You Need To Know
Mayor Ken Welch delivered St. Pete’s State of the City Address Wednesday
Welch said the community continues to rebuild from 2024’s storms and that 2025 was a year of recovery
In 2026, Welch said residents can look forward to more major projects including sewer upgrades, redevelopment of the Manhattan Casino and Municipal Marina
Welch said the community continues to recovery from the blow of 2024’s hurricanes.
“2025 was a year of recovery,” he said. “How we recover defines who we are.”
Welch said continued investments in smart infrastructure will aid the community. He highlighted a $600-million infrastructure stormwater and coastal protection project, along with engaging with residents in flood-prone neighborhoods.
STATE OF THE CITY: St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch delivered his address Wednesday, highlighting the city’s recovery from back-to-back storms to his plans for the upcoming year: “2025 was a year of recovery,” he said. “How we recover defines who we are.” https://t.co/whcYXZtSf0pic.twitter.com/5OMeSdOZpB
This is also an election year, and Welch has already announced he’s running for a second term.
Affordable housing also remains an issue, Welch said, adding he planned on continuing a variety of affordable housing programs.
Meanwhile, safe and healthy neighbors are key to the city, Welch said. The mayor said the city saw 10 homicides in 2025, the lowest since 1967.
Also, the mayor stressed the importance of investments in walking, biking and traffic calming projects.
In 2026, Welch said residents can look forward to more major projects including sewer upgrades, redevelopment of the Manhattan Casino and Municipal Marina. He said investments also would continue into education and investments in non-profits and youth programs.
And yes, Welch touched on continued talks about the Historic Gas Plant District.
“We have planned extensively,” he said about the ongoing discussions about what to do with the 86-acre Tropicana Field site. “Community conversations have focused on the Gas Plant District.
“I recognize and respect the city council’s part in this proposal. Our team is working to identify next steps.”
“In the year ahead, we will continue to do the work that matters most: Creating opportunity, protecting neighborhoods and strengthening infrastructure.”
A North Tampa native, Fred Lay entered construction driven by necessity and a desire to shape his own future. Raised by a hardworking mother with limited means, he learned to hustle early, fixing bikes and lawn mowers and finding small ways to earn money. At Tampa Bay Tech, he discovered a passion for building and welding through a sheet metal program. As he gained experience in the trades, he saw greater opportunity on the general contracting side. Lacking the capital to become a developer, he focused on mastering the field, eventually co-founding a construction company and later founding Construction Services Inc. (CSI) of Tampa.
My mom was a cigar roller, working long hours and making about ten dollars an hour in today’s money. We didn’t have much—lots of beans and rice—but we never went hungry, and there was always love and support in our family. I know things could have been very different if it weren’t for my mom stepping up and raising me when my birth mother wasn’t able to. She saved me from going to an orphanage, and because of that, I had a chance to build the life I have today.
Some of my fondest childhood memories aren’t about big moments or fancy things—they’re the small, everyday things that meant a lot. When I was 11, I saved enough money from mowing lawns and fixing bikes to take my mom out to a restaurant for the first time. We went for Cuban sandwiches, and she joked about how she wished I hadn’t spent the money because we could have had so many more meals at home.
When I was growing up, I wanted to be an auto mechanic. I loved cars and couldn’t wait to learn how to work on them. But when I got to school, the auto mechanics class was full, so I ended up in sheet metal class instead. Even though it wasn’t my first choice, I found I was really good at building things. That hands-on experience sparked my interest in construction and set me on the path I’m on today.
One of the most formative experiences I had as a kid was when my mom took me to Mexico to visit my birth family. I was about 12 and going through a tough phase, being rebellious and challenging. Seeing the situation my birth family lived in hit me hard. That wasn’t the life I wanted, and I instantly wanted to go back home. It made me realize just how lucky I was to have the mom who raised me. Her sacrifices saved me from a very different path. That trip was a wake-up call and shaped the way I see my life and the opportunities I have.
My very first job was actually selling items at a circus. It was a wild experience, and I made so much money that, for a moment, I seriously thought about running away with the circus! That job taught me early on how important it is to seize opportunities and hustle hard. It also showed me the value of entrepreneurship, of finding a market, of selling things people want, and of working really hard to make something happen. Those lessons stuck with me and laid the foundation for everything that came after, including my career in construction
My biggest supporter has always been my mom, Daisy. She took me in when I was a baby and gave me a chance at a better life when my birth mom couldn’t. She worked tirelessly as a cigar roller, sacrificing so much to make sure I had food, a bed, and love. Even when I was a handful, she never gave up on me. Beyond her, my wife Laura has been an incredible support. Through all the ups and downs, she’s been by my side, keeping me grounded and encouraging me. And of course, my family and my team at CSI have played important roles in supporting me and the business along the way.
Honestly, I look up to everyone taller than me—that’s my little joke—but on a serious note, I really admire entrepreneurs. I respect how they take an idea or a skill and turn it into a successful business. Watching people build something from scratch, overcome challenges, and keep pushing forward is inspiring. I try to learn from their hustle, vision, and resilience because building a business is never easy. It’s about grit and determination, and those are qualities I strive for every day.
I was born here and grew up in North Tampa. This place shaped me in so many ways. I never left because Tampa Bay is home, and it’s where my story started. Growing up here, I saw firsthand what it means to hustle and make the most of what you have. It’s a community full of hardworking people, and that spirit is something I really connect with. What I love most about the region is its resilience and diversity. Tampa Bay has so much to offer—from vibrant culture to growing business opportunities. I’ve watched it evolve a lot over the years. When I was a kid, parts of the area felt small and overlooked, but now it’s a bustling hub with new industries, developments, and a strong sense of community pride. I’m proud to be part of Tampa Bay’s growth, especially through my work in construction. It’s rewarding to see projects come to life that help shape the city’s future while giving back to the community that gave me so much.
Fred Lay
My business philosophy is rooted in doing things the right way and always giving back. I believe in building a company culture where people have real opportunities to grow and succeed. That means investing in my team—not just expecting results, but supporting them to become their best, even if that means they could eventually become my competitors. I never want to forget what it felt like to sign the back of a check as an employee, so I run CSI with empathy, respect, and fairness. Success doesn’t come from a single big project—it comes from creating an environment where everyone can contribute and feel valued. And because someone once gave me a chance for a better life, I’m committed to paying that forward through giving back to the community.
The last few years have taught me the importance of resilience and staying true to your values, no matter what challenges come your way. Business and life don’t always go as planned. There are ups and downs, unexpected changes, and moments that test your grit. But those times also remind you what really matters: family, your team, and doing the right thing. I’ve learned you have to be adaptable, keep pushing forward, and remember why you started. For me, it’s always been about creating opportunities—not just for myself, but for others—and giving back. The tough times have made me appreciate those things even more.
What I’m most proud of isn’t the projects or the business numbers; it’s the people I’ve had the chance to help along the way. I’m proud of building a company where employees have real opportunities to grow and succeed. Seeing team members get their general contractor licenses or step into leadership roles is a big deal to me. I’m also incredibly proud of my family and how we’ve overcome challenges and built a life full of love, experiences, and support. And honestly, I’m proud that I was able to take a tough start in life, with a 2.3 GPA and all, and turn it into something meaningful. It’s proof that where you begin doesn’t define where you can go.
I never thought I could build a successful business, let alone one that works on billion-dollar projects and generates $80 million in revenue yearly. Growing up with so many challenges, a rough start in school, and limited resources, those kinds of dreams felt out of reach. But I also never thought I could be a role model or a leader who makes a positive difference in people’s lives. That’s been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey: knowing I’m not just building buildings, but building opportunities and hope for others. Sometimes the things you never thought you could do turn out to be the things that define you.
A lot of people don’t realize that construction is really about relationships and trust—not just bricks and steel. People often think construction is all about hard labor and machines, but behind every project is a team of people working together, navigating challenges, and making hundreds of decisions every day. Success isn’t just about who works the hardest on the tools—it’s about managing the whole picture: schedules, budgets, teams, and quality. The general contractors and developers you don’t always see are the ones who bring all those pieces together. And giving back is a big part of our industry culture. At CSI, we’ve created programs to support the community and encourage our employees to volunteer. It’s about building more than buildings; it’s about building a better community.
Family is everything to me. Spending quality time with my wife, daughters, and now my grandkids is always a priority. Giving my kids experiences, like traveling and making memories together, has been just as important as providing for them. Racing has been a passion of mine for a long time. I’ve dabbled in the racing business and really enjoy the thrill and challenge that comes with it. It’s not just about speed—it’s about precision, focus, and pushing the limits, which is something I relate to in how I run my business. My love for cars goes beyond racing. I’ve built a custom garage to house my collection because cars are more than a hobby—they’re a big part of who I am. Racing and cars have taught me discipline and perseverance, lessons that have helped shape both my personal life and my career.
My favorite place to travel is always coming back home to Tampa Bay. No matter where I go, there’s something about this place that grounds me—it’s where my story began, and where my family and community are. Traveling is great for broadening your horizons, but coming home is about reconnecting with the people and spirit that made me who I am. I’ve been fortunate to travel with my wife, kids, and grandkids and create lasting memories, which I cherish just as much. But at the end of the day, home is where I find peace, purpose, and pride.
When I tell friends and family outside Tampa Bay about this place, I say it’s a hidden gem—a city with grit and heart. It’s a place where people work hard but also come together like a tight-knit community. You’ve got beautiful beaches and great weather, but it’s more than that. There’s a growing energy here with new businesses, development, and opportunities popping up all the time. Tampa Bay is a place where you can build something from nothing. Just like I did. It’s got that blend of Southern hospitality and hustle that makes it special. If you haven’t been here, you’re missing out on a city that’s on the rise but still feels like home.
The biggest item on my bucket list is to leave a lasting legacy—not just through my business or the buildings we construct, but through the impact I’ve had on people and the community. I want to make sure that what I’ve built continues to grow and that the values I stand for inspire others long after I’m gone. On a personal note, I’ll be racing at Le Mans, France, this summer, which is a dream come true. It’s a huge step for me, combining my passion and determination to push myself in new ways. That experience will be unforgettable and something I’m really looking forward to.
The biggest honor of my life has been adopting my daughter, Daisy, named after the mom who raised me. I was raised by a Daisy, and now I’m raising a Daisy. It feels like the way I’m finally showing my mom the love and respect I didn’t always show her while she was alive. That connection means everything. It’s a tribute to her sacrifices and the chance she gave me at life, and it’s a daily reminder to live with the kind of love and commitment she showed me.
My most surprising hobby is flying a plane. I honestly didn’t think I had the discipline to get my private pilot’s license, but I surprised myself. I soloed after just 10 hours of training and earned my license in four months. Flying taught me focus, patience, and pushing beyond what you think you’re capable of. It’s a skill I’m proud of and something totally different from my day-to-day construction work.
My greatest extravagance is my car collection. I own about 24 cars, and I even built a custom garage to house them. Cars aren’t just a hobby—they’re a passion and a way to unwind. I’m always on the lookout for something unique or special, and sometimes I buy one just because I can’t pass up the opportunity. It’s my way of treating myself after all the hard work.
If I could wake up tomorrow with one quality, it would be the skill to teach people that life is hard enough already, so there’s no reason to make it harder on ourselves. I wish more people could learn not to sweat the small stuff. Life throws enough challenges at us, whether work, family, or unexpected setbacks, and if we can let go of unnecessary stress and focus on the bigger picture, we’d all be better off.
If I could go back and change one thing, it would be how I treated my mom when I was younger. I was a handful, a mischievous kid who gave her plenty of sleepless nights. Looking back, I wish I had been kinder and more appreciative of her sacrifices. She did so much to give me a chance at a better life, and sometimes I took that for granted. That’s something I carry with me every day.
I believe my best qualities are compassion and gratitude. Growing up with challenges taught me to appreciate what I have and to treat others with kindness and understanding. Compassion helps me connect with people, whether it’s my family, my team, or the community, and to lead with empathy. Gratitude keeps me grounded. I never forget the sacrifices my mom made or the opportunities I’ve been given. It reminds me to give back and to approach life and business with humility and respect.
I want my impact to be about more than just buildings and business success. It’s about giving people opportunities—to grow, succeed, and build better lives for themselves and their families. I want to create a company culture where people feel respected, supported, and empowered. I want to give back to the community that gave me a chance. Someone believed in me when I was young and struggling, and I carry that with me every day. Through CSI and our charitable programs, I hope to make a difference in Tampa Bay—helping kids and families in need, supporting causes that matter, and inspiring others to pay it forward. At the end of the day, I want my legacy to be one of hard work, integrity, and generosity, showing that no matter where you start, you can build something meaningful and help others do the same.
My perfect day starts with spending quality time with my family—maybe having breakfast together and just enjoying those moments. Then I’d get to work doing what I love—building and creating, whether at the office or on a project site. In the afternoon, I’d carve out some time for my passion, checking out cars or maybe even doing some racing. Then I’d wind down with good food, laughter, and relaxation with my wife and kids. A perfect day is about balance: hard work, family, and doing the things that bring me joy.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
