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Tag: Tyler O'Neill

  • 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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  • St. Petersburg police chief says programs have kept youth crime down

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — New data shows violent crime was down in 2025 in the Tampa Bay area.

    The city of St. Petersburg had the lowest number of homicides in nearly 60 years. Youth crime is also down, according to the city’s police department.

    What You Need To Know

    • Violent crime is down in St. Petersburg, according to the city’s police department

    • St. Pete had the lowest number of homicides in nearly 60 years

    • Youth crime is also down, the police chief said, thanks to city programs

    • A new Young Influencer Felony Prevention Program starts in March


    St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway said that’s in part because of city programs keeping kids out of trouble, and another new program is launching soon.

    Charles Price is starting the Young Influencer Felony Prevention Program next month. It’s a subject that hits close to home.

    “I got my first arrest at 12. Assault and battery. At 15, I had an armed robbery. At age 24, I went to prison,” said Price, who is the founder and president of Felons Ain’t Failures.

    Price started a podcast geared toward felons to foster community. That community will help facilitate the new program.

    “They’ll be able to tell the kids: this is not a life you want to live. It’s not a fun life. It’s not what TV makes it look like. It’s rough, it’s lonely, and mentally it does a lot to you,” Price said.

    The Young Influencers Felony Prevention Program will feature four different projects over ten months. With lessons focusing on self-discipline, goal setting and conflict resolution.

    “They see guys out here selling drugs, it looks cool, they have nice cars, they have women around them and so we’re trying to turn their minds into something different,” he said.

    While this program will focus on felony prevention, St. Petersburg’s “Forward Together” program helps young felons get back on track by addressing the root cause.

    Holloway said 60% of participants are not re-offending.

    “We’re getting on the front of it and not on the back end of it, because people make mistakes, but how do you address it after a mistake? So I think by us staying in front of it when a child does something wrong, that we’re addressing it right away,” Holloway said.

    New data shows that violent crime is down by 16% across St. Pete.

    Homicides, robberies and auto thefts were down from 2024 and are well below the five-year average.

    “What we tend to see is that people are starting to really talk to each other instead of just using a gun and finding a way of solution or using a knife or something like that,” Holloway said.

    Holloway said police will continue to build trust with the community to keep the downward trend in motion. Price hopes that his prevention program will have the same effect.

    “We believe with the mental, the physical, the group sessions and conversation, and then the professional readiness, that can keep a child from making a bad decision to go down the wrong path,” Price said.

    The new program will kick off at the Thomas “Jet” Jackson Recreation Center on March 4 for registered participants.

    Crime is also dropping on the other side of the bay.

    According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, violent crime was down by nearly 14% and homicides fell by 55% from 2024 to 2025.

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  • Iconic 88-year-old restaurant reopens after 2024’s hurricanes

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    PASS-A-GRILLE, Fla. — An iconic 88-year-old restaurant finally reopened in Pass-A-Grille Beach following the 2024 storms.

    The Seahorse Restaurant opened its doors this month after nearly 1-1/2 years of work.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Seahorse on Pass-A-Grille Beach has reopened 

    • It’s been closed since 2024 after hurricanes Helene and Milton

    • The owners made the restaurant look just like it did before the storms

    • Customers and the owners say they are thrilled that the 88-year-old restaurant has reopened


    The restaurant sits right on the water.

    “It’s been established since 1938 and is an iconic restaurant here in Pass-A-Grille,” said Anayeri Gomez, the owner and general manager of the Seahorse.

    It hasn’t always been easy. The restaurant took on 7 feet of water from Hurricane Helene.

    Not long after, the owner said Milton finished what Helene started.

    “We had about probably up to here on water. Everything was gone,” she said, pointing to a spot on the wall.

    The damage was so extensive that the city of St. Pete Beach condemned the building. But after nearly 1-1/2 years of work, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in renovations, the Seahorse finally reopened on Feb. 6.

    “We were able to recreate everything and put it back together the way we remember it,” Gomez said.

    Many of its customers have been coming to the now-historic building for decades. Regular customers Michael and Sue Valind were pleasantly surprised to see the same tables and décor from years ago.

    “When people come down, we always take them to our favorite places. And since we were dating in 1983, we’ve been coming to the Seahorse, and so this is our first time back since it’s opened,” Sue Valind said.

    The restaurant is already very busy making breakfast, lunch and packing to-go orders. Hungry customers are once again eating the meals they know and love from many of the same employees who worked there before the storms. The owners did have to hire some new people, though.

    Gomez is asking for a little patience as they get settled back in.

    She said it won’t be long before restaurant operations are back to normal.

    “It feels great to see all our community back here, our customers and our friends and family. It’s an amazing feeling,” Gomez said.

    It’s been a long road to recovery, but for the Seahorse, it has finally come to an end.

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    Tyler O’Neill

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  • St. Pete celebrates local businesses with Localtopia

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Thousands of people celebrated St. Petersburg’s local businesses on Saturday as the nonprofit Keep St. Petersburg Local hosted its annual Localtopia event in Williams Park. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Localtopia, St. Petersburg’s largest community celebration of all things local, returned to St. Pete

    • Thousands of people 300 businesses and thousands of people filled Willams Park

    • The St. Pete Chamber of Commerce said this event is crucial for local businesses

    • Businesses said the event was a great opportunity for exposure


    It’s considered St. Petersburg’s largest community celebration of all things local.

    It was a busy day for businesses.

    Gallons of locally brewed beer were on tap at Localtopia.

    “Today, we have on tap our Harold’s lager, which is a nice, light, easy-drinking beer and our orange, which is a nice, easy-drinking light beer as well,” said Dennis Decker, owner of Pinellas Ale Works.

    Pinellas Ale Works has been coming to Localtopia for about 10 years. Every year, Decker said they sell more beer. While Decker said they are pretty established, the event is still a great day for exposure.

    “For a lot of the smaller businesses that haven’t been around a long time or don’t have a big advertising budget, this is a great way to show people what you do and what you have to offer,” he said.

    There are more than 300 independent businesses and organizations at this year’s celebration of all things local. The St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce said businesses need the help after spending most of last year recovering from 2024’s back-to-back hurricanes.

    “We love our locals, we know that has made the difference. When people come to St. Pete and they feel the buzz, it’s the buzz of the love we have for that entrepreneur who’s got the courage to open up that shop and take care of the rest of us,” said Chris Steinocher, president and CEO of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce.

    Steinocher said that St. Pete is open for business and encouraged people to shop local, not only on Saturday, but throughout the year.

    “Now, our economy is back, and our tourism is back, and our community is back. This is a year we want everybody to realize, we can get back to that normal sense of we have a lot of people here and we’re going to do a lot of good things,” Steinocher said.

    And after Localtopia, Decker said people do just that, as the brewery usually sees some extra foot traffic.

    “I think this kind of event reminds people of their local businesses. They kind of forget with the ordering online and all that kind of stuff, they forget about local businesses, and I think this is a good showcase for local businesses,” Decker said.

    Localtopia started in 2014 to celebrate art, music, food, drinks, and culture that St. Pete has to offer.

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  • Pinellas County Meals on Wheels requests funding to keep seniors off waitlist

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Feeding America data shows that the number of food-insecure seniors is rising. 

    Based on its research, it says nine million seniors could be food insecure by 2050. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Neighborly Senior Care Network requested $1 million in funding in the 2026-27 state budget

    • The nonprofit said the dollars will keep seniors from returning to the waitlist

    • While the program is mostly funded by federal money, the organization said those dollars are uncertain

    • Neighborly served more than 500,000 meals in 2025


    Neighborly Senior Care Network’s Meals on Wheels in Pinellas County has a waitlist that it’s looking to shrink. 

    To help accomplish that, they are requesting additional state funding. 

    With the delivery bags loaded with food, volunteers are ready to feed hungry seniors.

    “I do it because it’s something that I feel like you should be doing to give back to the community,” said Tom Henkel, a volunteer.

    Henkel has been volunteering with Neighborly Senior Care Network’s Meals on Wheels for more than five years, and he goes the extra mile.

    “Everybody gets a banana on Tuesdays. They all look forward to it,” Henkel said.

    While the number of people he delivers to has fluctuated over the years, Henkel said the need is great.

    “I’ve seen a lot of folks who this is the only meal they get all day and how important it is for them to receive a meal that’s nutritionally balanced like these meals are,” Henkel said.

    Neighborly now serves 500,000+ meals every year. Last year’s total was a more than 30,000 increase from the number of meals provided in 2023.

    James White has been using Meals on Wheels for over a year. He said it’s a great financial help.

    “I’m disabled, so I don’t have to go out as much. I don’t have to do all the walking through the store and plus food today, it’s just real expensive,” said James White.

    Most of Neighborly’s clients are served through approximately $2.5 million in federal funding, but the nonprofit said that money is always uncertain. State funding helped in the last two fiscal years. The $750,000 from last year’s Florida’s budget, Neighborly said, helped get hundreds of people off its waitlist.

    “Right now, we’re lucky that it’s, it’s all-time low, about 600 people because of the state appropriation that we’ve received recently,” said Anita Cihlar, nutrition director, Neighborly Care Network.

    The nonprofit is requesting $1 million in funding in the 2026-27 state budget. Cihlar said the funding will prevent seniors from returning to the waitlist.

    “We want to just keep those people fed — it’s about almost 800 people. That’s a lot of seniors that could go without meals and go back on the waitlist if we didn’t get the funding again,” Cihlar said.

    Henkel, who sees the impact firsthand, said the money would help many seniors in the county that he enjoys serving every week.

    “I would highly recommend that if anybody is interested in volunteering, that they look up their local Meals on Wheels program and see how they can go about doing so,” Henkel said.

    The Older Americans Act, which provides about $2.5 million to Neighborly’s nutrition program, expired in 2024. 

    A reauthorization act was introduced in June 2025. It has had no movement through Congress yet.

    Neighborly said their OAA funding has remained steady even without its reauthorization.

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  • St. Petersburg Distance Classic draws largest turnout ever

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Sunday was the largest St. Petersburg Distance Classic in the program’s history.

    This was the sixth time the event was hosted.

    Thousands of runners took off from North Shore Park to participate in a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K.

    What You Need To Know

    • Under 3,500 people registered to run in the St. Petersburg Distance Classic

    • There were 30% more runners this year compared to last year

    • Chris Lauber and his wife, Rya, founded and operate the St. Pete run from their home

    • This event is a qualifer for the Boston Marathon


    Marathon runners were met with lots of cheering as they stepped off on their 26.2-mile journey.

    Norman Shaw ran in the St. Pete Distance Classic for the first time, but he knows the area well. He grew up here, but he’s visiting from New Jersey to make this his ninth marathon.

    “This is one of the most special ones. Runners know St. Pete is as flat as a pancake, so it’s a beautiful run. San Francisco was awful — all the hills, I mean, it was beautiful, it was horrible to run. This will be nice,” he said.

    The 64-year-old trained for this by running about 30 miles a week. He said you have to go until your body is tired.

    “It’s just constantly pushing yourself not to stop,” he said.

    This year’s St. Pete Distance Classic had the largest number of runners ever. Under 3,500 people registered for all of Sunday’s races, making it 30% larger than last year. Organizers said they got a grant from Visit St. Pete-Clearwater to advertise the event.

    “We have almost every state represented and 15 countries,” said Chris Lauber, race director.

    Chris Lauber and his wife, Rya, founded and operate the St. Pete run, but Chris has a long history of organizing these things.

    In 1979, Chris had orchestrated jet ski races in Sebring, Florida. That eventually grew into a big event, even getting ESPN coverage.

    Then, using that experience, he created the Gulf Beaches Marathon in 2000. He said at the time, there wasn’t any sort of race like that in the county.

    The couple now runs the St. Pete Distance Classic out of their garage.

    “To see literally a thousand smiling faces run by you as the fruits of our efforts, I wish there was a single word, but there isn’t,” Chris said.

    It’s that same feeling that athletes like Shaw have when they run across the finish line.

    “Those last six miles are the toughest, but when you’re done, you feel like you beat yourself. It’s such an incredible feeling,” Shaw said.

    The marathon is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

    Runners who have a qualifying time can register for the Boston Marathon for 2027.

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  • The St. Petersburg Science Festival returns

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    ST. PETERSBURG — Jobs in science, technology, engineering and math are projected to boom in the next decade.

    The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects STEM occupations to grow by more than 8% from 2024 to 2034.

    To encourage the next generation to fill some of those openings, the St. Petersburg Science Festival returned to the University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus.

    What You Need To Know

    • The St. Petersburg Science Festival and MarineQuest returned to the University of South Florida St. Petersburg

    • The two events had 150 interactive exhibits and about 10,000 visitors

    • Organizers hope that the festival is fun and inspiring 

    • The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is expecting STEM occupations to grow by more than 8% from 2024 to 2034


    Families got to explore all different kinds of science.

    Playing with robots can be a lot of fun, especially for Ethan and Ryan. 

    But for Ethan, the St. Petersburg Science Festival is more than just fun. The ten-year-old said he is interested in working in STEM.

    “I come every year because I love science and being a scientist might be one of my career options,” Ethan said.

    Next door to the festival was MarineQuest, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

    Between the two events, there were 150 interactive exhibits and about 10,000 attendees.

    The goal is to show children niche roles in STEM fields and possibly inspire a career. 

    “There is an incredible demand around the Tampa Bay region for STEAM jobs, everything from someone who does aerial drone piloting to helping us to preserve this wonderful waterfront and habitat,” said Alison Barlow, Co-chair of the St. Petersburg Science Festival and CEO of the St. Petersburg Innovation District.

    The Bay Area isn’t alone. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects STEM opportunities to grow through 2034.

    “There’s also a lot of jobs emerging now that I never even knew existed when I was young, and so we want to introduce a nugget about those so that maybe they’ll think about them also in the future,” Barlow said.

    It’s a need that these thousands of visitors might just one day fill. 

    While Ethan is considering his options, he said he wants something that’s creative.

    “I have what I think is a different thought process than other kids,” Ethan said.

    While today’s event was geared toward younger kids, the state has some incentives for older kids. 

    In 2021, the state legislature passed a bill that created some college tuition discounts.

    It can offer up to a 50% discount on certain upper-level undergraduate courses in several STEM fields.

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  • Tax season starts Monday, here’s what’s new this year

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    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — It’s about that time of year that many Americans dread.

    The first day of tax season is Monday, Jan. 26.

    According to Intuit Turbo Tax, nearly half of Americans dislike or hate filing their taxes.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Big Beautiful Act has brought new tax provisions

    • New provisions include no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and more

    • Experts said if you are hoping to get your refund quickly, e-filing is your best option

    • Tax season runs from Jan. 26 – April 15, 2026


    After the passage of the Big Beautiful Act, there are many changes this filing season.

    It’s that time of year to start gathering your tax documents to get ready to file.

    “Just don’t overlook the simple stuff. I know folks have not a lot of patience for this process, and you kind of want to be done with it as fast as you can, and it’s worth slowing down just a little bit. Make sure you’ve got everything in place,” said Luke Richardson, associate professor of instruction at the University of South Florida.

    That’s because Richardson said there are more changes than usual this year. The Big Beautiful Act has brought new provisions, including no tax on tips.

    “That doesn’t necessarily mean that tips are not taxable. They remain taxable. What you now have is an opportunity to take a deduction for your tip income that offsets the tip income up to a certain amount,” Richardson said.

    The IRS said you can deduct qualified tips with a maximum deduction of $25,000.

    As for no tax on overtime deduction — if you make time-and-a-half for overtime, then just the half-portion can actually be deducted.

    The max deduction for that is $12,500 for single filers.

    There’s also a new senior deduction and a new no tax on car loan interest. These provisions have eligibility requirements and certain deduction maximums. 

    “Most of the tax software you might be using is going to have all those changes in there,” he said.

    There are free options available to help you file your taxes. There’s the IRS free file, which provides tax software for taxpayers who made $89,000 or less. There’s also the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), which is offering free filing help from Tampa Bay experts. 

    “So, plenty of ways to not pay to file your taxes and those programs are vastly underutilized,” Richardson said.

    Whichever option you choose, federal taxes are due by April 15, 2025.

    According to data from the IRS, over 60% of people who filed taxes last year did get a refund.

    For filers hoping to get that money back quickly, experts said e-filing your return is the best option.

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  • Some Florida bills could impact seniors

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The legislative session is underway, and many Bay area seniors hoping for lawmakers to address affordability are watching closely. 

    Financial security is a top priority for the aging population. 

    What You Need To Know

    • In a recent AARP survey of Floridians over 45, many said that adequate Social Security benefits are a top concern

    • There are bills in both the House and Senate that would establish a “Florida Retirement Savings Task Force”

    • Another bill would require local governments to allow accessory dwelling units

    • There’s also a bill that aims to protect people from cryptocurrency kiosk fraud


    Kathy Donovan, 83, said she doesn’t qualify for food stamps, so she goes to the Love Thy Neighbor food pantry and other food banks throughout the month.

    “Groceries have doubled, taxes and insurance have doubled,” Donovan said.

    In a recent AARP survey of Floridians over 45, nearly all respondents said that having adequate Social Security benefits and enough income to retire are extremely important or very important concerns.

    “If I had to just live on Social Security, if I didn’t have food banks, after I pay my bills, food would be tight,” she said.

    AARP Florida said financial security is one of its priorities during this legislative session. There are bills in both the House and Senate that would establish a “Florida Retirement Savings Task Force.” They would develop recommendations to expand access to retirement savings for residents who lack employer-sponsored retirement plans.

    “How do we set up people for when they retire, they retire comfortably, can continue to own or rent in the state of Florida, afford the cost of living, but also be comfortable,” said AARP Florida Senior Director of Advocacy Zayne Smith.

    AARP is also tracking a bill that would require, instead of authorizing, local governments to adopt an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units, or granny flats, in certain areas.

    “That’s going to open up availability, not only for smaller places, for a lot of times our seniors, or our loved ones to move into, but it also allows for people that are caretakers or maybe seasonal workers that don’t need a big home,” Smith said.

    Donovan is concerned about housing and retirement options for her kids and future generations.

    “Something needs to be done; legislation needs to be done. People get to be a certain age, and they should have a decent place to live. You shouldn’t be homeless, you should have fresh fruits and vegetables and things like that,” Donovan said.

    While she needs the food she gets from the pantry, she also always makes sure to give back by buying something from their thrift store.

    “Live like you’re living in the Depression, live within your means, buy something at a thrift store. Before you buy something, make sure you really need it,” Donovan said.

    AARP is at the State Capitol advocating for seniors.

    Another bill they are watching aims to protect people from cryptocurrency kiosk fraud. 

    The bill would require a fraud warning on the kiosk before a transaction can be made. 

    Under the legislation, new customers could only make transactions up to $2,000 a day. 

    AARP said this would empower law enforcement and protect potential fraud victims. 

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  • Some Florida lawmakers look to strengthen e-bike laws

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Florida lawmakers have proposed a bill that could strengthen electric bike laws.

    The bill would have a new licensing requirement, and riders could face fines for modifying their bike.  

    What You Need To Know

    • If passed, people riding Class 3 e-bikes, bikes capable of going up to 28 miles an hour, must have a valid learner’s driver license or a driver’s license

    • The bill calls for adding questions about electric bicycles and motorized scooters to the driver’s license exam

    • The proposed legislation would classify e-bikes that go over 28 miles an hour as electric motorcycles. The Florida Bicycle Association said that means faster e-bikes will be subject to motorcycle-style regulations

    • Crash reports would also need to identify whether the crash involved a motorized scooter, an electric bicycle or an electric motorcycle


    E-bikes have changed EBike Adventures of St Pete owner Drew Pomeroy’s life.

    “After about 100 yards, when you first get on it, you get a big grin from ear to ear,” said Pomeroy.

    Pomeroy has rheumatoid arthritis, so getting that extra push from the bike makes a real difference. Now, he is sharing his love for the hobby by renting out his fleet of e-bikes through his business. 

    He said that almost all of his customers are over 50, but e-bikes can be appealing to younger riders as well.

    Pomeroy said that sometimes when he sees kids on e-bikes, they aren’t always following the rules. He said some have even changed their bikes to go faster than factory settings. 

    “I see them speeding past the posted speed limit, and they’re not pedaling. They’re motorized by either electrical or even regular motors. I think that’s the biggest concern right now within the industry,” Pomeroy said.

    Florida lawmakers have proposed new restrictions for e-bikes.

    If passed, people riding class three e-bikes, bikes capable of going up to 28 miles an hour, must have a valid learner’s driver license or a driver’s license.

    It would also add questions about electric bicycles and motorized scooters to the driver’s license exam. 

    Additionally, riders could also face a $100 fine for a first offense for modifying an e-bike’s speed.

    “It’s so important to know these rules of the road. Now you’re on the road, you need to know all these rules and having a learner’s permit or a license allows you to do that,” Pomeroy said.

    The bill also requires that crash reports identify whether the crash involved a motorized scooter, an electric bicycle or an electric motorcycle. 

    That would be in an effort to track traffic trends.

    Finally, the bill would classify e-bikes that go over 28 miles an hour as electric motorcycles. The Florida Bicycle Association said that means faster e-bikes will be subject to motorcycle-style regulations.

    “I don’t think the parents realize what they’re getting for their kids. Electric motorcycle, it’s not an e-bike and there’s a significant difference, and I’m glad that the legislature is looking at that,” said Richard Garrett, president of the Florida Bicycle Association.

    The Florida Bicycle Association is surveying cyclists to assess what people think of the bill. So far, Garrett said, a majority are in favor of most sections but there are some concerns about accessibility.  

    “So we have to make some accommodations, I think from our perspective, to allow accessibility for people who might be not have a driver’s license but yet are too old to have one or couldn’t get one for some reason,” Garrett said.

    For Pomeroy, being active even with limited mobility is something he is grateful for.

    “I think it’s a great start,” Pomeroy said.

    The bill is now getting its start with a first reading in the Florida House.

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  • People build nest boxes for declining owl population

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The smallest owl in Florida is becoming more rare.

    Experts in Pinellas County said the Eastern Screech Owl’s population has been declining in the southeastern U.S. over the last ten years. 

    There are efforts to help the bird rebound in Pinellas County.

    What You Need To Know

    • The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural extension in Pinellas County hosted a nest box building for Eastern Screech Owls

    • A natural resources agent said that the Eastern Screech Owl’s population has declined by 16% in the southeastern U.S. over the last ten years
    • The hope is the artifical habitats will help the population rebound

    • In 2025 , the extension distributed nearly 100 nest boxes over four different species


    The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Extension in Pinellas County is hosting nest box building events before the owl’s breeding season starts.

    Andrea Kiernan attended a nest box building event in January.

    “I love my birds, and the screech owls are absolutely adorable and anything we can help to give them a nest and let them have babies that’s what we’re going to do,” Andrea Kiernan said.

    Over the last ten years, the UF IFAS extension in Pinellas County said the Eastern Screech Owl’s population has declined by about 16% in the southeastern U.S.. 

    Natural resources agent Lara Milligan said that habitat loss is to blame. 

    “Just the cutting down of our natural areas. As we’re cutting down trees, we’re not only destroying their homes, but also their food chain, food supply and all the animals that they depend on to feed on and thrive and survive,” said Lara Milligan Natural Resources Agent, UF IFAS Extension Pinellas County.

    At their latest event, they distributed 19 boxes that will serve as artificial habitats. 

    “By providing these houses, hopefully they’ll be attracted to them and say, ‘Hey, like this is suitable habitat for me,’ raise their young there and help their populations to rebound,” Milligan said.

    A few screws later, Kiernan is all done. She plans to put the nest box in a tree in her backyard. 

    “They usually sit with their heads sticking out and sun themselves during the day. It’s pretty cool,” Kiernan said.

    Last year, the extension distributed nearly 100 nest boxes over four different species. 

    The UF IFAS Extension in Pinellas County will host another nest building event

    It’ll be at Brooker Creek Preserve on Feb. 21, 2026.

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  • Florida bills aim to stop capture of vulnerable aquatic animals for exhibits

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Endangered species could get some new protections in Florida.

    Bills have been filed in the Florida House and Senate that would block people from taking any endangered, threatened or vulnerable aquatic animal species from state waters for display or education.

    What You Need To Know

    • The MANTA Protection Act would ban people from capturing endangered and threatened aquatic animals for exhibits or education

    • One of the bill’s sponsors said the bill will close a legal loophole where this has been allowed

    • If the bill is passed and signed into law, it would take effect July 1, 2026


    Last summer, video taken by the dolphin tour company, Water Planet, showed people capturing a giant manta ray off of Panama City. The species is listed as federally threatened.

    “This female giant manta ray will live the rest of her life in a tank at SeaWorld in Abu Dhabi and doesn’t get to experience the gift of being a wild animal,” said Rep. Lindsay Cross, D-St. Petersburg.

    Cross is sponsoring the MANTA Protection Act, which has bipartisan support.

    “Many of these species are on the brink of extinction, so we need to be doing more for their restoration and their rehabilitation to ensure that these animals thrive,” Cross said.

    The bill sponsor said this legislation will close a legal loophole where people can get a special activity license for education or exhibition from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that allows them to take protected animals.

    “Even though these animals are listed either on the federal or the state (as) threatened species, endangered or threatened animals, they’re legally allowed to do this, if they get the special license,” she said.

    But there are aquariums- that Cross said are responsible, like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. That’s because their animals are rescued from injuries and illness.

    “So that’s a responsible way, that’s really based on what’s in the long-term health and survival of those animals,” Cross said.

    If the bill is passed and signed by the governor, it would take effect on July 1, 2026.

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  • New Gulfport environmental team begins taking tree inventory

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    GULFPORT, Fla. — The City of Gulfport launched its new environmental team Saturday.

    Its first mission is to take an inventory of the city’s trees after 2024’s storms.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Gulfport Environmental Team has launched

    • The team is doing an inventory of trees in the city

    • The city had set out to grow its tree canopy to 30%. The vice mayor estimates they are at around 20% after the 2024 hurricane season

    • They will use the data to come up with tree-planting plans


    The initial team of about a dozen people collected data about tree species, size, condition and location outside the Gulfport Community Center.

    The goal is to learn about the city’s tree canopy and biodiversity. 

    Terrence Lee was at the inaugural event.

    “It’s an easy way to volunteer, and it gets you out and about during the day,” Lee said.

    The city’s tree coverage was at around 23%, but then hurricanes Helene and Milton barreled in.

    While it is starting with trees, the team plans to tackle other environmental goals in the future. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Tyler O’Neill)

    “We lost a lot of trees, and we haven’t found out how many yet, but probably we’re down about 19 or 20% canopy now,” said April Thanos, vice mayor of the City of Gulfport.

    Prior to the 2024 storms, the city had set out to grow its tree canopy to 30%.

    Dean Hay, a founding member of the environmental team, said that trees have many benefits, from shade to air quality and even drainage. 

    “They help with stormwater infiltration,” he said. “They actually lower the ground water, so that when we receive more rainwater from our rain events, then there’s more room to store that water underground so that we don’t have such high water tables and flooding.”

    The team is doing an inventory of trees in the city. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Tyler O'Neill)

    The team is doing an inventory of trees in the city. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Tyler O’Neill)

    Once team members get enough data, they will start coming up with mid- and long-range plans to plant trees across the city. That’s Lee’s favorite part. 

    “I know how to do it, and I know how to do it well. If and when it comes to that, I’m definitely going to be there to help plant trees,” Lee said.

    While it is starting with trees, the team plans to tackle other environmental goals in the future.

    Gulfport will have a free tree giveaway on Feb. 21, 2026.

    City residents can pick up a tree from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Clymer Park.

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  • Florida bill takes aim at paper straws

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A Florida bill is taking aim at paper straws.

    A bill has been introduced in both the House and Senate that would require jurisdictions with straw laws to allow options other than paper.

    The bill claims that paper straws are harmful to the environment and human health.

    What You Need To Know

    • A Florida bill thats been introduced would require jurisdictions with straw laws to allow options other than paper

    • The city of St. Petersburg has already banned single use plastic straws

    • If the bill passes, St. Petersburg Councilwoman Gina Driscoll said the city would add an amendment for paper straws to its plastic straw ban

    • Many businesses in downtown St. Petersburg are already using paper and plastic straw alternatives


    The city of St. Petersburg has already banned single use plastic straws. Many businesses in downtown St. Petersburg are already using straws made of different materials.

    The Wooden Rooster on 2nd Avenue is knowns for its crepes. If you want a drink with your crepe, the straw options have changed over the years. The city of St. Petersburg prohibited plastic ones in 2018, so the Wooden Rooster switched to paper. But when customers didn’t like them, they switched to green biodegradable straws.

    “Paper straws were a big thing. They (customers) were like, ‘Please tell me that you have regular straws.’ We have the biodegradable straws, which they’re happy with because they’re not the flimsy paper, or soggy paper straws,” said Melissa Phillips, general manager of The Wooden Rooster. 

    A Florida bill was introduced that would require jurisdictions with straw laws to allow options other than paper. The bill said if a local government enacts a straw law, it must require that they’re renewable, home compostable, industrial compostable and marine biodegradable.

    “Our planet is important, the sea animals are important, specifically the turtles. I’m definitely not opposed to that,” Phillips said.

    A study published in the journal “Food Additives and Contaminants” said out of five straw materials, paper had the most forever chemicals known as PFAS.

    “The more we learn about PFAS chemicals, the more we want to ensure that we’re minimizing the exposure that humans have to that,” said St. Petersburg 6th District Councilwoman Gina Driscoll.

    If the bill passes, Driscoll said the city would add an amendment to its single use plastic prohibition to include paper straws.

    “We’ve got such a wonderful waterfront, our marine life is sacred to us and being a healthy community is extremely important. So, this could be really good news for a city like St. Petersburg,” Driscoll said.

    As for The Wooden Rooster, they’ve already made the change not only for straws, but for cups too.

    “It’s important to do our part,” Phillips said.

    The Florida legislative session starts on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026.

    In 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order banning federal use of paper straws, meaning that paper straws can’t be served in federal buildings.

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  • Tampa health fair helps uninsured people get medical and social services

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    TAMPA, Fla — A free health care event in Tampa on Saturday helped hundreds of people in need.

    Pioneer Medical Foundation, a nonprofit, hosted its sixth annual community health fair.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pioneer Medical Foundation hosted its sixth annual community health fair

    • The event aimed to help people who were uninsured and under insured get access to medical services

    • The fair also helped provide social services

    • There were about 40 booths and 400 people in attendance


    There were about 40 booths and about 400 people in attendance, according to organizers.

    “They’re going out of their way to help the homeless and they help people in need,” said David Poole, who attended.

    The goal of the fair was to help people who are uninsured or under insured get access to health care.

    According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2023 over 13% of Florida residents were uninsured.

    “Access is not there. A lot of people can’t access health care, so this is why we’re bringing the health care to the people and bridging that gap,” said Ano Kashuma, Executive Director, Pioneer Medical Foundation.

    At least 50 nurse practitioners, physicians and dentists volunteered their time and expertise to help hundreds of people.

    Vision and mammogram screenings and teeth extractions were some of the medical services offered.

    “A lot of the times we’re seeing that when people are coming to the E.R., they have chronic conditions that could have been prevented by a visit to your primary care doctor,” Kashuma said.

    Along with medical services there were social services. There was access to showers, free clothing and bus passes. There were also giveaways.

    Poole was there to try and win a free bike

    “I hope they keep up the gratitude, the love, they’re showing for the homeless and keep doing what they’re doing,” Poole said.

    Organizers said the health fair continues to grow year after year.

    The foundation is also serving several counties on weekdays with a mobile medical unit van.

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  • Pinellas County strengthens retail pet store regulations

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Pinellas County’s Board of Commissioners has voted to strengthen oversight of retail pet stores.

    In December, commissioners voted unanimously to pass an ordinance after years of discussions and workshops.

    It comes after officials with Pinellas County Animal Services said a retail pet store in the county lost its license and closed. An investigation revealed that nearly 200 puppies were living in unsanitary conditions.

    Investigators said they also found that the store had not reported more than 70 puppy deaths over two years.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County’s Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to strengthen oversight of retail pet stores

    • The ordinance will double unannounced permit inspections to twice a year, at least half of the kennels must have solid flooring, and puppy deaths will need to be reported in three days instead of 15
    • People who violate cruelty and neglect regulations can face citations and a seven-day permit suspension with an officer follow-up within three days

    • In six months, the Board of County Commissioners will discuss the effectiveness of the ordinance


    With a record number of adoptions, it’s been a busy year for the nonprofit Friends of Strays.

    “We’re the oldest no-kill shelter. We take in cats and dogs, mostly from low resource shelters across the state to prevent euthanasia,” said Mo Eppley, chair of the board of directors for Friends of Strays.

    While they were busy finding homes for animals, Eppley said they’ve been a voice for more oversight in local retail pet stores.

    “A lot of the puppies that come in from the puppy mills where they’re purchased from the businesses, they don’t receive that care there,” Eppley said. “So when any puppy needs boosters, they need medical care. Parasites are easily transmitted.”

    But now, Pinellas County commissioners passed an ordinance that Pinellas County Animal Services said will strengthen oversight of retail pet stores.

    The ordinance will double unannounced permit inspections from once to twice a year, and facilities will have to have solid flooring for at least half of the kennels.

    Puppy deaths will need to be reported in three days instead of 15, among other changes.

    “For now, the animals that are in their care to make sure they’re not being neglected and dying needlessly, then these new safety measures and the new inspections will help that,” she said.

    Retail pet store, All About Puppies, said they are fully prepared to take on the new rules, but managers want to see forms developed by the county that explain what the expectations are. 

    Cruelty and neglect violations can face citations and a seven-day permit suspension with an officer follow-up within three days.

    “We love what we do, and we are extremely proud of the work that we do,” All About Puppies manager Alexandria Julian said at the commission meeting. “We stand behind our puppies, we stand behind out customers, our breeders, and most of all our word.”

    While the ordinance won’t impact Friends of Strays, Eppley said it’s a positive change for animal welfare.

    “So, the welfare and the health and safety of the animals, I think should be the most important thing that everyone should care about,” Eppley said. “And now, these businesses have to have those inspections.”

    In six months, the Board of County Commissioners will discuss the effectiveness of the ordinance.

    During that meeting, they also plan to explore if more retail pet stores should be allowed to open in the county.

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  • Pinellas County strengthens retail pet store regulations

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Pinellas County’s Board of Commissioners has voted to strengthen oversight of retail pet stores.

    In December, commissioners voted unanimously to pass an ordinance after years of discussions and workshops.

    It comes after officials with Pinellas County Animal Services said a retail pet store in the county lost its license and closed. An investigation revealed that nearly 200 puppies were living in unsanitary conditions.

    Investigators said they also found that the store had not reported more than 70 puppy deaths over two years.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County’s Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to strengthen oversight of retail pet stores

    • The ordinance will double unannounced permit inspections to twice a year, at least half of the kennels must have solid flooring, and puppy deaths will need to be reported in three days instead of 15
    • People who violate cruelty and neglect regulations can face citations and a seven-day permit suspension with an officer follow-up within three days

    • In six months, the Board of County Commissioners will discuss the effectiveness of the ordinance


    With a record number of adoptions, it’s been a busy year for the nonprofit Friends of Strays.

    “We’re the oldest no-kill shelter. We take in cats and dogs, mostly from low resource shelters across the state to prevent euthanasia,” said Mo Eppley, chair of the board of directors for Friends of Strays.

    While they were busy finding homes for animals, Eppley said they’ve been a voice for more oversight in local retail pet stores.

    “A lot of the puppies that come in from the puppy mills where they’re purchased from the businesses, they don’t receive that care there,” Eppley said. “So when any puppy needs boosters, they need medical care. Parasites are easily transmitted.”

    But now, Pinellas County commissioners passed an ordinance that Pinellas County Animal Services said will strengthen oversight of retail pet stores.

    The ordinance will double unannounced permit inspections from once to twice a year, and facilities will have to have solid flooring for at least half of the kennels.

    Puppy deaths will need to be reported in three days instead of 15, among other changes.

    “For now, the animals that are in their care to make sure they’re not being neglected and dying needlessly, then these new safety measures and the new inspections will help that,” she said.

    Retail pet store, All About Puppies, said they are fully prepared to take on the new rules, but managers want to see forms developed by the county that explain what the expectations are. 

    Cruelty and neglect violations can face citations and a seven-day permit suspension with an officer follow-up within three days.

    “We love what we do, and we are extremely proud of the work that we do,” All About Puppies manager Alexandria Julian said at the commission meeting. “We stand behind our puppies, we stand behind out customers, our breeders, and most of all our word.”

    While the ordinance won’t impact Friends of Strays, Eppley said it’s a positive change for animal welfare.

    “So, the welfare and the health and safety of the animals, I think should be the most important thing that everyone should care about,” Eppley said. “And now, these businesses have to have those inspections.”

    In six months, the Board of County Commissioners will discuss the effectiveness of the ordinance.

    During that meeting, they also plan to explore if more retail pet stores should be allowed to open in the county.

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  • Hillsborough County offers Christmas tree recycling options

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    GIBSONTON, Fla. — The holidays may be winding down, but there’s a way to give your Christmas tree a new life as there are several disposal options in Hillsborough County.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hillsborough County offers tree recycling at yard waste facilities

    • Trees can be turned into mulch for your yard

    • Curbside pickup is available for cut-up trees

    • Other nearby counties also provide similar services


    Jose Lopez dropped his tree off early Saturday morning at one of the county’s yard waste processing facilities.

    “I know people who burn them … but at the end of the day, the right thing to do is come and take it to the dump,” Lopez said.

    Stephanie Watson with Hillsborough County’s solid waste department says recycling options also help keep the trees out of the landfill.

    “If you were to dispose of the tree in your garbage can, it would go into the landfill and it would be disposed forever,” Watson said. “By us grinding your Christmas tree into mulch, you can use that in your yard for cover for your flowerbeds, especially with spring coming up.”

    Residents can take up to two cubic yards of the ground-up mulch.

    “It’s an easy process, and it’s the right thing to do,” Lopez said.

    There are two yard waste processing facilities Hillsborough County residents can use:

    • South County Solid Waste Facility, 13000 U.S. 41, Gibsonton, FL 33534
    • Northwest County Solid Waste Facility, 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, FL 33625

    Both the South and Northwest Solid Waste Facilities are open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    You’ll have to show your photo ID and a copy of your property tax bill during drop off.

    There are other options. Trees can be left curbside and will be picked up on routine yard waste collection days. It needs to be cut up into pieces no larger than four feet long and six inches wide. The decorations have to be removed too.

    Another option the county suggested was to make the tree into a bird feeder.

    “You can put it in your yard, place peanut butter pinecones, sliced fruit,” Watson said.

    For people who live outside of Hillsborough County, there are similar options.

    Pinellas and Pasco counties also have drop-off locations where they will mulch your tree. 

    Manatee County has curbside service where the trees will be picked up on yard waste collection day. 

    Just make sure it’s no longer than four feet and the decorations have been removed.

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  • Sports complex proposed for Clearwater golf course

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — A popular public golf course in Clearwater could be replaced by a new sports and recreation complex.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sunshine Recreational and Entertainment is proposing a sports complex where The Landings Golf Club is currently located

    • The proposal includes soccer fields, pickleball courts, a water park, and more

    • People who regularly go to The Landings say they are torn over the idea of losing the course

    • City officials said the proposal is incomplete and requested it be resubmitted before they can provide feedback


    Sunshine Recreational and Entertainment is proposing to build the facility where the Landings Golf Club is. 

    Some golfers are split about the potential overhaul.

    For Deandre Robinson, it’s a pretty convenient spot to take some practice swings.

    “It’s close by the house, so I come here and do a lot of practice and short game practice,” Robinson said. “If I need a quick tee time, it’s usually pretty easy to hop on.”

    He said The Landings has a good mix of course conditions and price. The Wheelehan brothers said they feel the same way.

    “It’s in really good shape. It’s well maintained by the city. The greens fees are competitive, and it’s a good quality course that’s not expensive,” said Gil Wheelehan.

    But that could all change after the city of Clearwater received an unsolicited proposal to redevelop the course into a sports and recreation complex.

    “If it’s gone, that means I’m probably not going to come to the athletic center because I’m going to be focused more on golf,” Robinson said. “So, I’m going to take my money and time elsewhere.”

    The original proposal from Sunshine Recreation and Entertainment has 13 soccer fields, including one championship field with a 5,000-seat arena. There would be 24 pickleball courts, a water park, sand volleyball courts and a fitness and wellness center. Sunshine officials say they believe it would be a better use of the land.

    While the Wheelehan’s like the area as a golf course, they also umpire youth baseball and said local leagues could benefit from a new sports complex.

    “We are torn,” Francis Wheelehan said. “I mean, we lose out on a great golf course, but we have great baseball. It’s, it’s six of one, half a dozen of the other.” 

    City officials said the proposal was incomplete and requested it be resubmitted. Once that happens, they said the city can provide feedback.

    If the complex were to be built, the proposal from Sunshine Recreation and Entertainment claims that there would be $566 million in economic impact over 10 years. Plus, hundreds of local jobs would be created.

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  • Palm Harbor is getting a brand-new recreation center

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    PALM HARBOR, Fla. — A project that was first approved in 2000 is just months away from finally breaking ground.

    Palm Harbor is getting a brand-new recreation facility.

    What You Need To Know

    • Palm Harbor is getting a new recreation facility  

    • The facility will be 28,000 square feet and two stories. It will have a full-sized gymnasium that can be used for multiple sports, a suspended track, a flex programming space and more

    • Residents said the old facility is long overdue for an upgrade

    • Groundbreaking is estimated to start in spring 2026


    It will allow for more programs and greater public access. The new building will also serve as an emergency shelter.

    The recreation center had its last tap class in the room that it has been in for decades on Dec. 18.

    The room has seen better days — many of the dancers have been using it for more than 20 years. Tammy Ely has been teaching in it for about three years. 

    “We have a temporary floor, and windows that kind of shine sun in all the time, and the air conditioners kind of get hot,” Ely said. “It’s due to have a new building here.”

    The other building on the property was originally a senior center. It’s been repurposed for pickleball games and other programs. The problem is that the pickleball courts are not the right size and the ceiling fan can get in the way.

    “I’m not like a real competitive pickleball player, but the courts are definitely not the normal size pickleball courts and the lighting isn’t always the best in this room,” said Hailey Bechet, a Palm Harbor resident.

    But change is coming, as the rec center is getting a complete overhaul. The older of the two buildings will be demolished to make room for the new 28,000-square-foot, two-story facility. It will have a full-sized gymnasium that can be used for multiple sports, a suspended track, a flex programming space and more.

    “This will give us an opportunity to offer parents that need a place to put their kids so that it’s affordable and safe. So that is huge for us,” said Erica Lynford, director of Palm Harbor Recreation.

    Lynford said the new facility will also serve as an emergency shelter. According to Pinellas County’s bid, the county has a shelter deficit for category 4 and 5 storms. The proposal said that after Hurricane Irma the county recognized that non-school facilities are needed after a major storm.

    “This will open up an ability to, I believe, house over 400 people during an emergency situation,” Lynford said.

    She said the estimated cost of the project is between $10 and $13 million. The director said the funds will come from Penny for Pinellas, a 1% sales tax.

    Lynford also says the new building will reduce the wait time to play pickleball and, more importantly, reduce the waitlists for summer programs.

    “I think it’s really exciting. I think the more growth in this area the better because we are for sure getting overpopulated,” said Bechet.

    The tap class is also growing, and the long-time dancers are looking forward to a new floor and ballet barres.

    “That’s really ideal, better for your joints. Anybody that had dances in a dance studio situation, a sprung wood floor is ideal for ballet, tap, jazz,” Ely said.

    Lynford said the bid will be awarded in early 2026, with a groundbreaking to follow in the spring.

    The entire project is estimated to be completed in 18 to 24 months.

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