Neighborhood News Bureau

Category: COMMUNITY

  • The relationship between the Rays and St. Petersburg remains uncertain 

    The relationship between the Rays and St. Petersburg remains uncertain 

    By John Mancini  

    Over a month has passed since the owner of the Tampa Bay Rays, Stuart Sternberg, called off the deal that would’ve built a new stadium for the major league baseball team. The deal was stopped due to financial and negotiation issues. Now, residents and city officials are wondering what the next steps will be for the stadium. 

    “It’s all real speculative right now, but as far as a big new stadium deal is concerned, it would be difficult with the current ownership,” District 8 Council Member Richie Floyd said.  

    Mayor Kenneth Welch said during a March 13 briefing that the city did “everything possible,” noting it secured an unprecedented amount of public funding and agreements covering all 86 acres for the new stadium. 

    “Keeping your word is very important,” Welch said. “Keeping the trust of a community is very important.” 

    In the fall of 2024, Hurricane Helene and Milton barreled through the city of St. Petersburg, causing $55 million worth of damage to Tropicana Field. The damage caused the county commission to delay its portion of the funding and increased financial issues for the Tampa Bay Rays.  

    Negotiation issues were raised over the next few months regarding the inability to work with previous deals and the specific timeframe Tropicana field would be rebuilt, ultimately resulting in the Rays backing out of the deal.  

    Tensions then came between Welch and the Rays’ ownership. Earlier this month, the St. Petersburg City Council agreed to put up $22.5 million to help repair Tropicana Field’s roof. 

    Welch has also reaffirmed that the plans to redevelop the Gas Plant District are still on. 

    Meanwhile, there’s a growing belief that something internal happened with the Rays organization regarding the stadium deal, and the Rays saw the hurricanes as a way out of the deal, according to locals. 

    “In [the Rays] minds it certainly was,” Commissioner Dave Eggers said. “From a public relations standpoint, they felt that they could blame us for some delay that they defined as a contractible delay, which was not true at all. [The deal] was there. The two sides agreed and were ready to move forward. I would hardly think a storm like that would affect a deal had they had their heart, soul and pocketbook in the deal.” 

    The Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field expires in 2028, and while tensions with the Rays’ current ownership are still high, their future in St. Petersburg remains uncertain. 

    Many factors can change regarding negotiations between the Rays and the St. Petersburg City Council, as the current mayor and council members would have to run for reelection during that period. 

    “They might offer us something that makes more sense,” Floyd said. “I couldn’t say for certain if the team would have to be sold. I think for us to negotiate another big agreement with them, it would be very difficult to do with the current ownership because the mayor’s office is so frustrated with them.” 

    Floyd said that if we could fix Tropicana Field back to its old state for a reasonable cost, and the Rays are open to staying there, then he could see the mayor being open to the Rays staying in town. 

    However, former MLB pitcher Rich Sauveur said he feels the Rays should leave St. Petersburg. 

    “Living in a suburb of [Bradenton] St. Petersburg, I feel it is not a baseball town,” Sauveur said. “The only time they have crowds are when the Red Sox or Yankees are in town, and those fans are mostly Yankees and Red Sox fans.” 

    Sauveur said he feels the chances of the Rays staying in St. Petersburg has diminished over the last few months, not just because of the failed stadium deal, but due to fanbase issues as well. 

    “[The Rays] would love a larger fanbase,” Sauveur said. “It is hard for them to play a home game in front of 7,000 fans when other teams get 30,000.” 

    Sauveur suggests that Nashville, Tennessee, would be a great spot for the Rays to relocate, as the city has become a sports town and would cherish bringing home an MLB team. 

    If the Rays were to leave St. Petersburg, Eggers said he feels that Pinellas County would be able to rebound. 

    “In the short term, there would certainly be an effect, but this county is made up of so many incredible manufacturing industry companies, and our tourism industry is just incredible,” Eggers said. “So in the long run, this county will be just fine.” 

    The St. Petersburg City Council has agreed to finance $22.5 million to begin repairs on Tropicana Field, however, the $22.5 million is only enough to fix the roof, as it would cost roughly $56 million to repair the entire stadium. 

    “It’s going to be sourced from various city dollars, but I think we are anticipating half of it getting refunded from insurance and then like another chunk from FEMA,” Floyd said. “Thats the optimism that the city has.” 

    The Gas Plant District was a thriving community in St. Petersburg that housed many African Americans before Tropicana Field took its place, leaving the community in need of redevelopment.  

    Mayor Ken Welch has remained committed to redeveloping the district despite the stadium deal falling through, and he said he wants to have the same kind of equitable development plan but smaller in scale. 

    “It won’t be a grand slam, it will be a base hit, a double,” Welch said. 

    The Rays and Hines Development were set to lead the redevelopment, but according to Floyd, that agreement collapsed when the stadium deal fell through. The city still controls the property, and the district remains available for redevelopment. 

    “We are going to go and have to select different developers, sell parcels of land or go and develop it ourselves,” Floyd said. “All that has got to be formulated, but it should be able to happen sooner rather than later. We don’t know how long Tropicana Field will exist for, but we know the land around it can be redeveloped really soon.” 

    Floyd said that some parts of the district can be redeveloped immediately, while other pieces will have to wait until the Rays lease agreement ends in 2028. 

    Construction on the Tropicana Field roof is expected to begin in August, while the beginning phases of redeveloping the Gas Plant District should begin sometime this year. 

  • A weekend in Tampa Bay leads to UConn’s 12th championship 

    A weekend in Tampa Bay leads to UConn’s 12th championship 

    By D’Asya Collier-Williams 

    Tampa Bay hosted the NCAA Women’s Final Four for the fourth time, setting a record for the city and showcasing its growing role in advancing women’s sports. 

    The 2025 Women’s Final Four, held April 4-6 at Amalie Arena, featured powerhouse programs and drew in thousands of fans. The University of Connecticut captured its 12th national championship with a commanding 82-59 victory over South Carolina in the title game. 

    “It’s been a pleasure being here in Tampa,” said Jaelyn Arndt, NCAA associate director of social media communications. “Women’s sports as a whole is growing, and I’m excited to be part of the change.” 

    Although the final score was lopsided, the performance of UConn guard Paige Bueckers brought emotion and inspiration to the court. After missing significant time due to injury in recent seasons, Bueckers returned at full strength and led her team with 28 points, six assists and five rebounds. Her resilience and leadership earned her the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award. 

    “So many emotions — gratitude was the main one,” Bueckers said. “The journey, the ups and downs, everything it took to get to that point. Just overwhelming joy. I’m just so happy for every person who is part of this journey.” 

    The weekend showcased both elite basketball and Tampa’s capacity to host major sporting events. The city previously hosted the Women’s Final Four in 2008, 2015 and 2019. Its consistent presence on the NCAA’s hosting schedule signals its importance in the women’s athletics landscape. 

    “Tampa has become a premier destination for women’s championships, and the energy here is always electric,” said Christian Bilkovic, NCAA assistant director of corporate relations. “The level of the game in every sport has been elevated so much by these women.” 

    The NCAA also emphasized community engagement throughout the weekend. Fans visited Tourney Town at the Tampa Convention Center, where interactive exhibits, games and merchandise were available.  

    Hundreds of children took part in the Women’s Final Four Bounce, a youth dribbling parade that brought families and basketball fans together at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. 

    As the sport grows, so does the visibility and support for women’s basketball. National coverage, increased sponsorship and higher attendance reflect a changing landscape.  

    ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe, who participated in a Final Four panel, spoke about the transformation she has witnessed in her career. 

    “For too long, this game and these players were overlooked,” Rowe said. “Now, with the growth in media coverage, sponsorship and fan engagement, women’s basketball is finally getting the recognition it deserves.” 

    With each successful tournament, Tampa strengthens its reputation as a reliable and enthusiastic host. As women’s sports continue to rise, the city’s ongoing partnership with the NCAA could position it as a staple location for future Final Four events. 

  • Hidden coffee shops brew community in St. Petersburg

    Hidden coffee shops brew community in St. Petersburg

    By Christiana Eckard 

    In St. Petersburg, local coffee shops offer a unique blend of community and creativity. While tourists often visit more popular spots along Central Avenue, smaller independent cafes are also drawing attention from those looking for a different experience. 

    The independently owned Patrona Costal Café and Bean Wandering coffee shop aren’t just serving caffeine; they’re embracing small-scale creativity with community connections, according to their owners. 

    Right off the Gandy Bridge, Patrona Coastal Café sits on the edge of the water. This boutique coffee shop features tiki huts, boat views and an ambiance that’s more of a beach getaway than a typical urban café. 

    “Everything we make is in-house,” head barista Grace Kamaraku said. “From the beans that we grind to our own sourcing, it’s really unique. [It’s] kind of like a secret Margaritaville…There is really nothing quite like it here.” 

    While their social media presence has helped attract new visitors, the cafe itself remains something of a local secret. 

    “You would never expect everything that is behind the front sign,” Kamaraku said. 

    Camryn DaSilva, St. Petersburg native, said she never heard of the place until social media. 

    “I found this place through TikTok,” she said. “It came up on my for-you page, but it was so much more than what I could have imagined. I don’t think it gets much better between the boat watching and good coffee.” 

    Despite its picturesque location and growing buzz, Heidi Putnam, who’s been part of the team for six years, said there’s still room to grow. 

    “We could really use the recognition,” Putnam said. “It would be great for business.” 

    Not far from Patrona is the Bean Wandering coffee shop. What started as a modest coffee truck in early 2024 turned into two permanent locations with a small but dedicated customer base. 

    According to locals, Bean Wandering is known for their unique packaging. All coffee is served in cans with a soda lid, setting them apart from competitors.  

    The owners, Hanna and Kara Rewerts, said they set out to create a portable spill-proof coffee experience perfect for busy people. 

    “I started back in April 2024, right when we opened,” manager Madi Landreth said. “It’s been amazing to see how much we’ve grown, from being the coffee truck to having two locations. I’m proud to be part of it.” 

    Like Patrona, Bean Wandering first blew up on Tik Tok, creating a surge of people coming into the cafe.  

    “I love this place,” customer Alexandros Stathas said. “It’s kind of hidden, so I feel like unless you are in the building, you wouldn’t know it’s here. “It’s in the perfect spot. I wish people would expand their horizons and try something new other 
    than Starbucks.” 

    Where there is corporate growth and rising rents, small businesses like Patrona Costal Café and Bean Wandering are threads in the fabric of the city’s economy.  

  • Rooted in ancient tradition, henna’s popularity grows across town 

    Rooted in ancient tradition, henna’s popularity grows across town 

     
    By Noah Chase 

    Henna use, once primarily tied to cultural and ceremonial traditions, has expanded into a global industry and is embraced today as a popular form of self-expression and body art. 

    “In Central Florida, nobody really knew what henna was—only in smaller circles,” said Tampa Bay henna artist Nadiyah Mahmood of Henna by Nadi Nam. “But now it’s grown tremendously… It’s at fairs now, at Disney [and] at Busch Gardens. Everyone wants to get it done.” 

    Primarily used in African, Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, henna has become widespread and continues to grow in popularity outside of its traditional uses. 

    “There are so many different types of cultures that use henna,” said local St. Petersburg henna artist Sumayah Lea of Talia Moon Botanica. “It’s a pretty wide range of designs that go along with that too, and you can usually tell what type of culture someone is from based on the designs themselves.” 

    Henna leaves a temporary stain on the skin, hair, nails or fabric when applied as a paste. Traditionally, it has been used in cultural ceremonies like weddings and religious holidays. 

    Beyond its decorative role, henna has also been historically valued for its natural cooling properties. 

    Henna art is displayed by the artist Elisa Giacona in St. Petersburg. (Photo courtesy of Soulshine Henna)

    “The appeal is that it’s beautiful and temporary,” Soulshine Henna owner Elisa Giacona said. “People like that. I found my favorite art medium [henna]. I fell in love with it because it’s natural, from a plant, it’s temporary and the color changed. It all just fascinated me. I started [henna] and just haven’t stopped.” 

    Henna, often compared to a tattoo for its intricate designs and temporary nature, has gained widespread popularity for offering the beauty of body art without a lifelong commitment. 

    “It’s become so popular in modern times that women here in the West really adore getting it done because it’s less of a commitment compared to getting an actual tattoo,” Mahmood said. “It makes you feel feminine and very beautiful.” 

    Henna paste is typically made from four ingredients: henna plant powder, cane sugar, essential oil and a binding liquid, which is usually water or different fruit juices. 

    “It has become more popularized and more available, so people are trying it themselves,” Giacona said. “Especially in this area because we have the sunshine.” 

    Henna art is displayed by the artist Nadiyah Mahmood in the Tampa area. (Photo courtesy of Nadiyah Mahmood)

    To apply henna, artists clean the area first and ensure the client remains still while the paste is applied. Afterward, clients must sit patiently as the henna dries—a process that can take several hours before the stain sets properly. 

    “It’s a living, breathing art form,” Lea said.  

    Giacona and Mahmood both said that social media has contributed significantly to henna’s recent rise in popularity. 

    “I thank social media because it helped educate people about certain things and made people become more aware of henna,” Mahmood said. 

    Henna art is displayed on the hand by the artist Nadiyah Mahmood in the Tampa area. (Photo courtesy of Nadiyah Mahmood)

    When Mahmood was a child, she said she would often be questioned about what was on her skin when she wore henna for holidays such as Ramadan because “it was not as normalized.” 

    Henna has also been known for its therapeutic properties, thanks to its calming essential oils and the meditative experience of watching it being applied. 

    “Henna is something that really touched my soul in a way that nothing else ever did because it’s a plant and has medicinal qualities as well as being an art form,” Lea said. 

    As henna continues to gain mainstream popularity, it remains a powerful blend of cultural tradition, natural beauty and personal expression that resonates with people across the globe. 

  • St. Petersburg launches major project to restore disappearing seagrass

    St. Petersburg launches major project to restore disappearing seagrass

    By Kayla Buckingham 

    After years of a concerning amount of lost seagrass across Tampa Bay, the city of St. Petersburg is launching a massive summer project that aims to restore one of our water’s most critical natural resources. 

    The North Shore Park Seagrass Bank Mitigation Project is planning to rehabilitate more than 30 acres of seagrass beds and turn the tide on one of Florida’s most overlooked environmental crises. 

    Seagrass, the underwater plant that supports fish, feeds manatees and helps keep Florida’s waters clean, is vanishing at alarming rates. There’s a major concern of what this decline could mean for the health of Florida’s underwater ecosystems. 

    According to Steve Newborn at WUSF radio station, after decades of being on the mend, the number of seagrasses in Tampa Bay has decreased for three years in a row. That’s bad news for marine life, which depends on these grasses as a vital food source. 

    Seagrasses grow in shallow coastal waters and are often mistaken for seaweed, but they are actually flowering plants — the only type able to live fully submerged in saltwater

    Known as the lungs of the sea, seagrass helps produce oxygen and absorb excess nutrients from the water. 

    “The North Shore Seagrass Mitigation Bank Project will help restore historical losses of natural habitat and plant native seagrass,” according to the city of St. Petersburg’s press release on the project. 

    The project was approved for over $150,000 in funding for its restoration efforts. 

    As seagrass meadows promote water quality and clarity, they also serve as nurseries for newborn fish, provide food for endangered manatees and support biodiversity for its waters.  

    Specifically, some key fish species that rely on seagrass are snook, redfish and speckled seatrout— all in which are vital catches for local fishermen. When asked if they have noticed any changes in bite activity, local fisherman Kyle Sommerschuh said he has noticed some decline in the past couple of years. 

    “It is definitely harder to catch snook than it used to be,” he said. “When I take people out to do some of the more laid-back kind of fishing, like for local species, I always go to seagrass beds. I’m not going to lie though, it is not uncommon to come back empty-handed.” 

    According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Tampa Bay lost more than 6,300 acres of seagrass between 2018 and 2022—a roughly 16% decline. More recent data released in 2023 found that in just over two years, another 4,100 acres were lost.  

    In some areas near Old Tampa Bay and the Hillsborough River, the damage is even more severe. 
     
    Brianna Varner, a member of Tampa Bay Watch who participates in numerous conservation projects for the area, said there are a couple of reasons why Seagrass has been in trouble. 

    “Unfortunately, all of our pollution ends up in the Bay, which causes an excess of nutrients,” Varner said. “Not only does it make our water really gross, but in turn, it can cause red tide, harmful algae blooms and it also can kill our seagrass.” 

    Rising water temperatures is another culprit for the harm on our Seagrass. Marine scientists have been working for years to reverse the effects of coral bleaching, a state that coral goes into when the water is too warm. Just like coral, seagrass also bleaches.  

    According to a Tampa Bay Watch conservationist, rising temperatures have begun affecting seagrass health, causing it to lose some of its color — but human activity remains one of the greatest threats. 

    “People affect seagrass in a couple different ways,” Varner said. “First one being habitat loss, due to the development of beaches, which clears out seagrass habitats. You may have also heard of prop scars. When boaters leave the marked channels, they are usually going through seagrass beds. A lot of the time this is super damaging and tears up the seagrass, leaving prop scars.”  

    Example of prop scars from a boat motor ripping through seagrass in Tampa Bay. (Photo by Kayla Buckingham/NNB)

    The city said it plans to restore 178 acres from North Shore Park into a protected habitat for seagrass, as well as four other types of aquatic vegetation.  

    According to St. Petersburg officials, this project is said to be Florida’s first and one of the largest seagrass projects in the Gulf of Mexico. 

    The community can take part by volunteering for the project or helping to raise awareness. More information, including how to get involved, is available at https://tampabaywatch.org/. 

  • Pinellas County battles ongoing erosion with beach nourishment

    Pinellas County battles ongoing erosion with beach nourishment

    By Kylie Perz

    Beach erosion has been an ongoing issue faced by Pinellas County, but officials warn it’s worsening as sea levels rise and storms intensify. In response, the county is pushing beach renourishment projects to protect buildings, support tourism and keep the man-made shorelines that help protect the area. 

    Barrier islands are dynamic environments where the sand constantly shifts and inlets open, close and migrate. According to John Bishop, Pinellas County’s coastal management coordinator, beach erosion has always been a problem along the county’s beaches.  

    While erosion occurs daily due to natural processes, much of the recent damage has been caused by hurricanes and storms. 

    Sand piled high in front of beachfront condos on Sunset Beach in Treasure Island, nearly seven months after Hurricane Helene and Milton. (Photo by Kylie Perz/NNB)

    “It wasn’t until the 1980s that a decision was made to put the beaches back,” Bishop said. “The county began nourishing Sand Key island with the [United States] Army Corps of Engineers in the late 1980s. Beach erosion has been a consistent problem. Our beaches today are largely a man-made feature. Much of our Sand Key project area had no beach or dune when we first began nourishment. The projects that the county does now are more of a maintenance effort to put sand back that had been previously placed.” 

    Recent storms such as Hurricane Helene and Milton hit the entire coastline of Pinellas County with over seven feet of storm surge, one of the highest water levels experienced in the last 40 years. This caused about three feet of sand to wash over onto other parts of the islands, and the beaches have been in recovery mode since. 

    Bishop said beach nourishment is essential for protecting both the shoreline and the economy. 

    Before these projects began, many areas had little to no beaches left, and erosion threatened local buildings and infrastructure. 
    “Beach nourishment definitely helps,” Bishop said. “The beach allows the waves to start breaking offshore, instead of releasing their energy on seawalls and buildings.” 

    The process involves pumping sand from offshore and grading it to fit a specific design, which must be repeated every four to six years to maintain beach width.  

    The county follows a method known as regional sediment management, using sand from nearby inlets like Egmont Shoals, Johns Pass, Blind Pass and Pass-a-Grille to keep waterways open and reduce buildup. 

    “Without beaches, there would be no place for sea turtles and shorebirds to nest, so this process can also be considered a form of habitat restoration,” Bishop said. 

    Brenda Murphy, a longtime resident of Pinellas County’s Sunset Beach neighborhood in Treasure Island, said the beach isn’t what it used to be and continues to change with every storm. 

    “Our neighborhood looks different after every storm, and it’s getting worse as the years go on and storms get stronger,” Murphy said. “It’s scary to see how quickly the shoreline is disappearing and how much everything can change overnight. We’re still seeing piles of sand pushed up along walkways and seawalls, even months later.” 

    In response to concerns like Murphy’s, Bishop said supporting these projects is essential for the local economy and for protecting infrastructure along the coast. According to Bishop, they’re most effective when built as one continuous stretch without gaps. 

    Signage at Pass-a-Grille Beach marks the site of an ongoing renourishment project, part of a countywide effort to rebuild eroded shorelines following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. (Photo courtesy of Brian Lowack)

    Brian Lowack, CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, said tourism plays a key role in funding these types of coastal improvements. He highlighted how the From Visitors With Love campaign helps educate residents and local officials about the importance of tourism and its impact on the community. 

    “This is a great way to show the results of tourism in real dollars and cents and [its] impact on our jobs, incomes and amenities in our community,” Lowack said. “It also allows us to let our residents know that our beach renourishment projects are paid for by the tourist development taxes collected from visitors, meaning no residential taxes are used to help replenish our beaches.” 

  • Local boba tea shop combines flavor and anime for customers

    Local boba tea shop combines flavor and anime for customers

    By Alyssa Moritz 

    The Manga Tea Shop in Hudson is gaining popularity, as it draws in customers with its unique blend of boba tea and an anime-themed atmosphere.

    “You can come here, and you can engage with other fans of anime […] and I think a lot of other [boba] places don’t offer that opportunity to their customers,” Miguel Padilla said, a 36-year-old co-owner of Hudson’s Manga Tea Shop. 

    Boba tea shops’ popularity has increased over the years, including Hudson’s Manga Tea Shop. With the public’s expanded interest in anime and manga, which are comics or graphic novels originating from Japan, Manga Tea Shop combined boba, anime and manga to create three store locations.  

    Boba, or bubble tea, was traditionally a Taiwanese drink that mixed iced milk tea with tapioca pearls made from starch. Over time, additional flavors and ingredients, such as fruit, became common for boba tea shops to offer. 

    Padilla said that he saw an opportunity for a Hudson location tea shop early on. 

    “We noticed trends that more businesses were popping up in this location, more specifically in this plaza,” Padilla said. “We saw an opportunity, it was trending up [and] we thought we’d take it.” 

    Skye Ingram, 24-year-old manager of Hudson Manga Tea Shop, said that applying for the position provided the perfect opportunity for her. 

    “I really like anime, and I really like boba, so when I saw that they were opening up a shop over here I thought it was a perfect opportunity to take my personal interests into my work life,” Ingram said. 

    Manga Tea Shop has a variety of anime and manga themed merchandise such as stuffed animals, keychains and mystery boxes. The art on the walls inside of the shop was made by an employee at the Tampa location Manga Tea Shop, according to Padilla. 

    “We want the customer to walk in, feel welcome and just provide a warm environment that anyone can walk in,” Padilla said. “So, they don’t feel judged, they’re here to stay [and] they’re here to hang out. We’ll engage in conversation with them and make it an overall positive experience.” 

     
    Manga Tea Shop also hosted events including cosplay contests, anime trivia nights and holiday-themed gatherings. At some of these events, raffles and prizes were offered, allowing customers to interact and learn about others in the community. 

    “[These events] create good opportunities to bring people in,” Ingram said. “A majority of our clientele like anime or manga, [but] we have a select few that are only here for the boba. Even only being here for the boba they ask, ‘Oh, what’s all this artwork? What’s on the tv?’ and it introduces some people into the anime manga scene.” 

    Manga Tea Shop also added new products for customers, both to snack on and to keep. Along with new mystery boxes, Padilla said that Manga Tea Shop had soft serve ice cream with flavors such as taro or cookies and cream. 

    With all of the additions to Manga Tea Shop, from the drinks to a manga library, Padilla said that other boba shops did not offer that type of opportunity to their customers. 

    “I think the anime community is very passionate about anime, so you really have to provide positive experience or else they’re going to know if they walk in and you’re not passionate about something they are passionate about,” Padilla said. “Fortunately, here we don’t have that issue. Everyone here enjoys everything we do and everything we show.” 

    Hudson’s Manga Tea Shop displayed their new soft serve ice cream for customers on Instagram and Facebook on April 19, and they welcome new and returning visitors to stop by and try the treat in person. 

  • Tampa Bay artists react to Doechii’s historic Grammy win

    Tampa Bay artists react to Doechii’s historic Grammy win

    By Canela Vasquez 

    On Feb. 2, songwriting rapper Doechii made history as the third woman to win Best Rap Album at the Grammys.  

    During her acceptance speech, she highlighted the talent in Tampa, and urged “labels go to Tampa, there’s so much talent there.” 

    As the self-proclaimed “swamp princess,” Doechii has never hidden the fact that she is a Tampa Bay native and took this monumental moment to remind the biggest names in the music industry of her creative roots. 

    The shout-out has invigorated local creatives and given them hope for more acknowledgment by labels and scouts. 

    Another Tampa Bay native, Celyne Mckenzie, creatively known as “Thee Celyne”, has followed Doechii’s career for years. In Tampa’s tight-knit community, she often finds herself in the same artistic circles as early Doechii collaborators. 

    “Sometimes when artists get big and experience fame, they tend to forget where they come from, but I was super proud of her that she didn’t,” Mckenzie said. 

    With a wide range of museums, murals, theatres and music venues, Tampa Bay has become a small but mighty hub for creativity and artistic expression. Mckenzie said she has grown into this expressive culture and credits Tampa Bay for her passion of artistry. 

    “I love the 813 so much,” she said. “Florida is a great state, but Tampa is a gem, and a lot of people don’t know that. I feel like Doechii’s win really was that fire, that resurrection of hope for some creatives in the Tampa Bay area.” 

    The University of South Florida’s director of contemporary commercial music and CEO of Project Gametime LLC, Kenrick Wagner, acknowledges the struggles of exposure for local artists. 

    “Look at the major markets in the nation,” Wagner said. “You have New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta. Then outside, you have these pockets and places where music is happening and it’s going on, but not at the forefront.” 

    Wagner said that through community connection, artists can network and build a strong foundation of support. Independent record labels such as Ybor City Records, Symphonic Distribution and Cigar City Management have been a breeding ground for rising artists.

    Alejandro Cornado, creatively known as “Chach” and band member of THA BANNED, said he believes that open mics are where undiscovered talent can be explored. Bars like Shuffle, 7th and Grove, Tori Bar and Sparkman Wharf are a few examples of venues that offer a safe space for creatives to amplify their art. 

    “To me, in my own eyes, it’s another coming of a renaissance where there are so many different arts and mediums that are being explored in Tampa,” Cornado said. “It’s just more of a reassurance that she won that Grammy and was able to point out to labels, to other artists in the actual scene to take a look at Tampa because there’s so much going on here that goes over people’s head.” 

    Though Doechii’s acknowledgment of local artists has momentarily spotlighted Tampa’s creative prowess, many artists know that more noise will need to be made to grasp the attention of major industry players. 

    “It’s not going to change overnight,” Wagner said. “But what it is going to do is shift the attention from the major markets across the nation to start looking for where we can find the next popular sound or where the wave of the culture is going to go.” 

    For talent scouts and record labels now looking to Tampa Bay, local artists encourage them to disregard the successful music formula and focus on genuine raw talent. 

    “I would definitely say for record labels and talent scouts to be more personable,” Cornado said. “Go to these venues, there’s going to be something you like when you do go and dabble.” 

    Mckenzie said that if scouts are looking for a replica of Doechii, the results will be lackluster. 

    “There’s so many different flavors and so many different varieties, and you’ll truly miss out if you try to come and recreate something,” Mckenzie said. “Look at what raw talent we have here, and go with that because that’s what makes us special. We’re not like anybody else.” 

  • Food trucks revolutionize the local resturant scene

    Food trucks revolutionize the local resturant scene

    By Destiny McDaniel 

    On Saturday evenings, Scott Street in Ybor City fills with parked cars and crowds as diners gather outside a local restaurant, soaking in live music and the glow of fairy lights. Meanwhile, across town, a food truck prepares for the dinner rush alongside others in a bustling lot. From burgers to ice cream, food trucks are revolutionizing the way people eat their meals. 

    Food trucks are becoming more popular and common in Tampa and St. Petersburg, replacing sit-down restaurants as more people opt for truck dining rather than sit-down restaurants. 

    Over the past decade, food trucks have increased in popularity, offering a cheaper and more convenient way for chefs to serve the public.  

    In contrast to traditional restaurants that require a massive upfront of cash, a long-term lease and a full team of employees, food trucks offer a low-cost alternative. Their mobility allows them to serve in several places instead of being tied to one site. 

    Chefs operating food trucks often have greater flexibility to experiment with menus, adapting their offerings to suit each new location.  

    “They’re just as convenient location-wise because they move around much more easily,” said Brie Grant, an expert chef for over a decade in the Tampa-Lakeland area. “But when they run out of food, that’s it—pack up shop.” 

    Food trucks are also beginning to be the preferred choice over restaurants due to the growing annoyance of tipping culture. 

    “When dining out at a restaurant, customers usually must pay 15-20% tip on top of the bill, and that can add up to a meal,” Grant said. “Food trucks have more of a take-it-or-leave-it tipping practice though, so that dining out is not as costly. Food trucks typically serve meals faster than traditional restaurants, too, so food trucks can also be appealing to busy people. But yes, food trucks are a winner in popularity. I did think of getting one myself.” 

    While some see food trucks as a more affordable and efficient alternative to traditional dining, others argue the experiences serve entirely different purposes. 

    “I don’t believe you can compare dining in a food truck versus dining in a fine dining restaurant,” explained Koy Wilson, a Tampa fine dining restaurant manager. “Food trucks are for grab-and-go meals, while fine dining is about being served and relaxing. I don’t think that food rucks are overtaking restaurants, at least not yet. But with the new generation, maybe that will happen.” 

    Food truck culture has been thriving in Tampa, with plenty of festivals celebrating the food truck restaurants. On Feb. 22, the city experienced its annual Tampa Taco Festival at Al Lopez Park, with over 20 food trucks serving all different types of tacos. 

    “Honestly, food trucks just hit differently,” Melda Pajazetovic said. “You really can’t get this type of flavor in a restaurant.” 

    Recent events, such as SoulFest on April 5 — which featured soul food-inspired trucks — and Tampa’s International Food Truck Festival 5.0 on April 12-13, highlighted the growing influence of food trucks on the local culinary scene. Their mobility enables them to efficiently serve large crowds at major gatherings, often making them a more convenient option than traditional restaurant catering.  

    Many festivals and gatherings choose food trucks due to their convenience, quick service and ability to provide diverse menu options on-site. 

    As businesses evolve, food trucks are growing more popular. With their mobility, affordability and versatility, they are revolutionizing the way people eat, one stop at a time. 

  • St. Petersburg celebrates artists at the Second Saturday ArtWalk

    St. Petersburg celebrates artists at the Second Saturday ArtWalk

    By Kylie Perz 

    St. Petersburg Second Saturday ArtWalk unites the city’s art districts for a lively monthly event, allowing visitors to explore new exhibits, meet local artists and engage in the community. From 5 to 9 p.m. on the ArtsXchange campus, studios and galleries open their doors to showcase their one-of-a-kind pieces, offering food, wine and music to create an immersive experience. 

    According to Terry Marks, CEO of the Arts Alliance and organizer of the ArtWalk, the event’s primary goal is to encourage, engage and introduce residents and visitors alike to the galleries that are offered throughout the many art districts in St. Petersburg.

    Artwork fills the walls of the Soft Water Gallery, a participating space in Second Saturday ArtWalk showcasing a range of local and regional artists. (Photo by Kylie Perz)

    “It’s an opportunity not only to meet the artists and purchase art but to really have a sense of community, for people to meet each other, learn more about what’s going on in the arts world and support emerging artists,” Marks said. “This is especially important for underrepresented artists, such as African American and BIPOC artists, by giving them exposure as well.” 

    According to Marks, the experience brings multiple districts together makes art more accessible, encourages people to support small businesses, and keeps the city’s creative spirit thriving. 

    “We did an economic impact study with Americans for the Arts, a nonprofit organization, and discovered that $132 million in revenue comes from the arts sector and impacts the city of St. Petersburg,” Marks said. “We’re an economic driver not only for our residents but also for tourism. ArtWalk is an opportunity for the galleries to be open during hours they typically aren’t for Second Saturday.” 

    David Williams, artist and former visual journalist, brings a unique perspective to this event as a regular attendee.  

    “When I accepted a job with the St. Petersburg Times in 1987, there was no ‘art scene’ here,” Williams said. “That didn’t start until the mid-90s when local artists started taking over rundown, unused space and showing their work and the work of others. From that seed, it has grown into the lively art scene you see today. I believe the Artwalks are a way to keep the public informed as to what is going on with the arts in their community.” 

    Anna Ayres, a participating artist in the ArtWalk, has been part of St. Petersburg’s art scene for the past decade. She graduated from the University of Vermont with a minor in studio art and continued her artistic journey by finding ways to get involved, such as showcasing her work at arkets and events like ArtWalk. She has painted murals around the city, with some of her other artwork featured at Soft Water Gallery in the Warehouse Arts District, where she now assists with Second Saturday’s. 

    A mural by Anna Ayres brings bright, Miami-inspired charm to The Gabber Newspaper, with Roseate Spoonbills reading under palms and orange branches. (Photo courtesy of Anna Ayres)

    “The energy is unmatched for Second Saturdays,” Ayres said. “It is so incredible to witness the community coming out, experiencing art, interacting and engaging in something so connecting for us. It’s an incredibly positive and rewarding type of evening. It just feels good to be a part of something so unique.” 

    Creating art often requires long hours of isolation and intense focus, which can sometimes feel lonely and be challenging at times, Ayres said. Events like the Second Saturday ArtWalk provide an opportunity to connect with others. 

    “The ArtWalk provides a space to share our process and our triumphs, and to engage with the community of other artists and, most importantly, art appreciators,” she said. “This gives it even more life than it has on its own. It’s like being a musician. Making the songs is one part of the process, and then sharing the songs with an audience brings a whole new energy. It’s the ripple effect of creativity. It has the power to affect others in a hugely positive way, inspiring, encouraging and motivating each other towards healthier ways of being.” 

    According to Ayres, these community-driven events not only foster meaningful connections but also breathe new life into the often solitary process of making art. 

    Artist Anna Ayres adds finishing touches to her vibrant mural at The Gabber Newspaper, painting playful roseate spoonbills and tropical details in a Miami-inspired palette. (Photo courtesy of Anna Ayres)

    “The Artwalk is such a fun, positive way to encourage the community and to witness the creative process of artists,” Ayres said. “It’s not an easy vocation, and organic networking is the best way to create those relationships that make it possible. It is literally impossible to survive as an artist without the support of others, like any business or industry.” 

    For aspiring artists who are looking to become involved in events like this, Ayres said she encourages artists with some words of advice she wishes she had received earlier in her career. 

    “It’s so important to keep artistic endeavors sacred by not putting pressure or expectations on them,” she said. “It helps to have a separate vocation that keeps you afloat, allowing your passion for art to be reserved for creating and not for making sales. That way, when you do make sales, it’s just fun and a bonus. Putting all your needs on your passion can change it, and then it becomes less about soul and more about necessity.”