Local theatre thrives from New Port Richey citizens’ support. 

Richey Suncoast Theatre actors perform a scene to their audience from their production of the play "Oliver!" in May 2024. (Photo by Lydia Oestreich)

By Alyssa Moritz  Richey Suncoast Theatre has seen a surge in community support in recent years, helping the New Port Richey venue expand its reach. “In the time I’ve been here, the support has definitely grown,” said Alyssa Vargas, a 21-year-old actress. “We’ve definitely seen an increase in support for the theatre, but I think… Continue reading Local theatre thrives from New Port Richey citizens’ support. 

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The hidden stories behind city murals inspire locals 

Murals and artwork look over St. Petersburg sharing messages of hope and inspiration. (Photo by London Evans)

 By London Evans  Colorful murals now line the streets of St. Petersburg, transforming the city into an open-air gallery that began taking shape a decade ago when officials eased restrictions on street art.   It all began around 10 years ago when local authorities relaxed their restrictions on street art and welcomed local artists’ ideas… Continue reading The hidden stories behind city murals inspire locals 

Pinellas County adapts to the FDA’s recent ban on Red No. 3 

Popular products like Funfetti cake mix and Betty Crocker icing and sprinkles are subject to recall due to containing Red No. 3. (Photo by Christiana Eckard)

By Christiana Eckard Maraschino cherries, PEZ candy, Jelly Belly treats and Entenmann’s Little Bites all share more than fan-favorite status — they contain Red No. 3, a dye set to be banned from shelves by 2027.   The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recent decision to ban Red No. 3, an artificial food dye that gives… Continue reading Pinellas County adapts to the FDA’s recent ban on Red No. 3 

Wartime legacy lingers in historic neighborhoods

Soldiers train along the coast while safeguarding residents from the threat of enemy submarines. (Photo courtesy of St Petersburg Museum of History)

By Julian Borrmann  Before it became a vacation hotspot, St. Petersburg was a wartime stronghold. With more than 100,000 military trainees flooding the city, 62 local hotels were converted into barracks and hospitals. This massive influx reshaped the community, as many soldiers and their families remained in Florida long after the war ended.  Rui Farias, a… Continue reading Wartime legacy lingers in historic neighborhoods

Leadership St. Pete celebrates 55 years of shaping the city 

The Leadership St. Pete Class of 2025 comprised of 40 professionals from diverse backgrounds who will complete the program's 55th year. (Photo courtesy of Leadership St. Pete)

By Dayana Melendez  Every Friday morning at a downtown café, a group of professionals gather for breakfast. They’re not coworkers or longtime friends — at least not in the traditional sense. Five years ago, they were strangers thrown together in Leadership St. Pete’s Class of 2017. Today, they’re part of an invisible network that has… Continue reading Leadership St. Pete celebrates 55 years of shaping the city 

FEMA’s future in question after 2024 hurricane devastation

A floodwater line takes damage caused by Hurricane Helene in St. Petersburg. (Photo by Kayla Buckingham)

By London Evans, Julian Borrmann, Kayla Buckingham and Victoria Whitlock  Since 1979, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has made it possible to recover quickly and return to normal everyday life after natural disasters occur. With the organization facing potential changes, waterfront locals are anxious for answers about whether they will receive aid in the next… Continue reading FEMA’s future in question after 2024 hurricane devastation

Lack of representation creates need for accessible fashion

Lady Natasha Fines Adaptive Fashion features clothing with a variance of specific functions to help people with disabilities. This clothing piece features a kids zip up jacket with easy port/iv access. (Photo courtesy of Lady Fines Adaptive Fashion)

By Noah Chase Finding stylish and adaptive clothing can be a challenge for people with disabilities, as the fast-paced fashion industry prioritizes trends over inclusive design.  “I realized there was a huge need for clothing for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses,” said Tampa Bay fashion designer, Lady Natasha Fines. “I brought it up to the… Continue reading Lack of representation creates need for accessible fashion

Jordan Park Youth Program helps local children flourish

Students attend the Tutoring and Education Program, an after-school tutoring session at the Jordan Park Clubhouse. Volunteer tutors provide academic support designed to help students improve their skills, gain confidence and succeed in school. (Photo courtesy of St. Petersburg Housing Authority)

By Ailyn Garcia  The St. Petersburg Housing Authority’s Jordan Park Youth Program is an initiative that provides free after-school programs for the children of Jordan Park. They have mentorship, educational and recreational activities available.  Kiara Lovett, the director of social services for SPHA, believes this initiative has created a safe and supportive environment for the… Continue reading Jordan Park Youth Program helps local children flourish

New law could mean less flooding for Pinellas County residents

Pinellas County lawmakers hope to regulate vehicle speeds in areas vulnerable to flooding, as well as bring awareness to the issue with the proposition of a new bill. (Photo by Kadin Knowles)

By Rhiannon McIsaac, Kadin Knowles, Paola Bisbal and John Mancini During major storms, Pinellas County residents face the real threat of speeding vehicles pushing flood water into their front yards and homes, leading to damage that could have been avoided.  Pinellas County lawmakers hope to regulate vehicle speeds in areas vulnerable to flooding, as well… Continue reading New law could mean less flooding for Pinellas County residents

Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival celebrates health, culture and community  

Locals gather at an outdoor venue in St. Petersburg for the Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival Feb. 20-21 to celebrate culture, food and wellness. (Photo by Kaylen Ross)

By D’Asya Collier-Williams This year’s Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival in St. Petersburg marked a major milestone for the local community, blending food, health and culture. What started as a small fundraiser in a church basement in 2018 has grown into an annual event that draws hundreds of attendees from across the city.  “We started with just a… Continue reading Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival celebrates health, culture and community