Fla — St Petersburg Police (SPPD) said they arrested a woman who allegedly left a suspicious package at police headquarters Police said an employee noticed a suspicious vehicle parked in the police department's loading dock on 1st Avenue around 2:25 p.m An officer searched the area and found a suspicious suitcase in the parking lot under a forensics unit van The parking garage was blocked off and businesses in the area were evacuated SPPD said they called Tampa's Bomb Squad to investigate SPPD said security video showed a woman later identified as Rebekkah Westermeyer drive up in a vehicle and pull out a large suitcase The woman then allegedly walked around a wall under a security barrier and into a restricted area with the suitcase SPPD said officers were called to 249 4th Avenue North for a person who was allegedly shot SPPD said the SWAT team was able to take Westermeyer into custody and charged her with Abuse of 911 and manufacture and I feel like that's part of where the system failed" Henry Betsey Jr. is facing charges for marrying three Florida women in three different counties at the same time. Now saying the system that handles marriage licenses kept them in the dark Latest Pinellas County News from ABC Action News Report a typo COMMUNITY PARTNER Stay connected to All Things Good in the Burg by subscribing today Since I Love the Burg launched in May of 2009 Pete Rising in this year\u2019s Best of the Bay Awards By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies. We use cookies to provide you with a great experience and to help our website run effectively. Learn more Cycle Brewing will close its tap room in downtown St Cycle Brewing the city's oldest craft brewery and a cornerstone of St will be closing its downtown taproom this month The cycling-themed brewery, which has served locals for the past 12 years, will not renew its lease at 534 Central Avenue, founder and brewmaster Doug Dozark announced earlier today on social media “The taproom will close in as early as a week or as late as the end of the month,” said Dozark Cycle will continue to brew beer at its production warehouse at 2135 5th Avenue South—near the Orange Belt Railway and Pinellas Trail—where it bottles its beverages Inside Cycle Brewing’s taproom in downtown St we hope to open something in the warehouse by this summer that could include retail bottle sales and eventually on-site consumption,” said Dozark in a conversation with St and is especially renowned for offering a large selection of barrel-aged stouts Some of the barrel-aged stouts include such as a barrel-aged stout with maple and banana; another with coconut and hazelnut; and a brandy barrel-aged barleywine infused with vanilla beans A selection of barrel aged stouts from Cycle Brewing | Cycle Brewing Dozark began brewing at Peg’s Cantina in Gulfport Green Bench Brewing Company opened in the EDGE District there are nearly 50 locally owned breweries in the St Though Dozark’s passion for cycling inspired the brewery’s theme the name “Cycle Brewing” reflects a broader philosophy—embracing life’s journey whether on two wheels or with a pint in hand The potential new taproom at the production warehouse may retain the Cycle Brewing name or adopt a new brand “We have a lot of options and will take time to decide Since the new location won’t carry over much from downtown keeping the name might set the wrong expectations,” Dozark noted Cycle Brewing remains open Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m Follow Cycle Brewing on Facebook and Instagram for updates Want to be the first to know what’s coming soon to the Sunshine City Sign up to receive the latest news straight to your inbox Contact - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy© 2024 St Petersburg man survived an Interstate 275 crash early Saturday morning that threw him from the vehicle before it caught fire According to a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report was driving an Infinity G37 southbound on I-275 in Hillsborough County at about 3:10 a.m the driver lost control of the vehicle which crossed the median and collided with a guardrail The vehicle then caught fire and burned extensively The driver suffered serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital Latest Hillsborough County News from ABC Action News Recent reports have noted that a new state grant would prevent St Petersburg from redeveloping Albert Whitted Airport for at least 20 years The city accepted a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant in 2024 that also required the facility to remain an airport for 20 years City council members unanimously approved accepting $134,800 Thursday from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to help fund a $1.7 million project that will storm-harden an electrical vault elevate upgraded equipment and add an emergency generator.  Mayor Ken Welch previously wanted to explore the 119-acre property’s economic impact and non-aviation uses he has “never supported” a high-density development.  “I’ve seen some mock-ups that basically have another downtown on Albert Whitted,” Welch told the Catalyst “I don’t want anyone to think that’s what I support.” In October 2024, a city evaluation committee selected four companies to provide consultation and design services on several projects at the city-owned facility A firm’s success in securing grants was an oft-discussed topic at the meeting.  The committee also frequently considered the applicants’ ability to oversee a runway extension into Tampa Bay Welch expressed concern about how low planes must fly over the campus to land at the airport “One of the ways to get those flights higher would be a runway extension,” he added “It’s ironic that I could perhaps end up supporting that A longer runway would accommodate larger non-commercial aircraft It would also allow for taller buildings around the airport The USFSP campus continues expanding; the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub plans to build a sister facility and the city could redevelop Port St you have to take an honest look at that,” Welch said which suffered significant damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton Since his first month in office, Welch has sought to increase the city-owned waterfront facility’s community impact The nonprofit Friends of Albert Whitted Airport subsequently established a scholarship for youth interested in aviation careers.  In November 2023, city council members rejected allocating $300,000 to an economic impact study. They dedicated the money to an urban tree-planting initiative.  City officials later identified Albert Whitted as an ideal location for a vertiport to accommodate electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) and other advanced air mobility efforts Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the area two months later.  “We had a lot of conversations with our emergency management folks in the city and county about what role Albert Whitted would play in disaster recovery if we were to lose two bridges We toured the county and were able to land at Albert Whitted – not just with his helicopter but with several Ospreys (aircraft) that had staff and press on them.  that was kind of a proof of concept of what it could be post-disaster.”  In January, Welch appointed former Councilmember Ed Montanari, a pilot and staunch airport supporter to represent his administration on the city’s inaugural Advanced Air Mobility Task Force He believes air taxis could increase accessibility throughout the region.  The city council approved a $1.2 million contract Jan. 9 to demolish and remove storm-damaged hangars Officials must still rebuild those structures.  Welch declared April 5 Friends of Albert Whitted Scholarship Day after the organization distributed 29 scholarships totaling $184,000. He said administrators would still explore ways to increase the airport’s community impact, potentially through an apprenticeship program like the Mayor’s Future Ready Academy.  Welch noted that the city could repay grant funding and negate the 20-year restriction and if we’re going to spend resources and time it’s not going to be on something like that,” he said Ken Welch needs to complete his term as mayor and retire Typical funding for an airport project is: 80% comes from the FAA The end of the article has this statement: Welch noted that the city could repay grant funding and negate the 20-year restriction The funding from the FAA comes via a Grant Assurance Agreement You can read about this at: FAA.gov/airports/aip/grant_assurances The FAA offers these grants but requires an assurance as how they are to be used a city representative must sign the assurance and this becomes a legal contract There is no mechanism for receiving money at the FAA in this way The money for FAA grants comes from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) The AIP gets it’s funding via a tax on aviation gasoline and jet fuel The FAA is tasked with developing a nation wide transportation system Albert Whitted Airport is part of that system If Whitted were not there it would drive more small aircraft traffic to TPA and PIE That is problematic because of the difference in landing speeds of jets and propeller driven aircraft Both the FAA and Florida DOT will enforce their Grant Assurance programs to protect the transportation systems they are required to establish and maintain 120 acres of our downtown waterfront dedicated to a handful of people that own private planes Who besides the airplane owners supports this Stop accepting $150k de minimus federal grants that lock this nonsensical airport in place for another 20 years Keep some space for a vertiport or whatever and give the people their park land back Add your idea below. Review Catalyst posting guidelines here. By posting a comment, I have read, understand and agree to the Posting Guidelines Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value" Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value" Students rocket toward STEM careers at community hub 2025 Florida legislative session extended through June 6 Multiple affordable senior housing projects advance  The Catalyst honors its name by aggregating & curating the sparks that propel the St Pete engine.  It is a modern news platform, powered by community sourced content and augmented with directed coverage your perspective and your spark to the St Pete Catalyst and take your seat at the table Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value" Privacy Policy | Copyright © 2020 The St Petersburg Group Enter the details of the person you want to share this article with Ja’quavius Corde Daniels turned himself in to authorities on Thursday night in connection with the shooting, which occurred April 16 in the 3400 block of 40th Street North. Ja’quavius Corde Daniels faces a felony murder charge in connection with a fatal home invasion robbery in St. Petersburg. [ Pinellas County Jail ]Police say two men committed the home invasion. The homeowner shot one of the suspects, Marcel James Williams, 20, who later died at a hospital. The second suspect fled the scene. Police now say Daniels is that second suspect. Police have not released the name of the homeowner. Daniels is facing a charge of felony murder. Under state law, someone can be charged with murder if another person dies while they are committing certain crimes, such as home invasion robbery. The charge can be applied even if they didn’t pull the trigger and even if the person who died was an accomplice in the crime. An arrest affidavit for Daniels was sealed in court records Friday and was not available. Bond information also hadn’t been posted by Friday afternoon. Chris Tisch is the senior news editor overseeing breaking news, criminal justice, weather and environment. Reach him at tisch@tampabay.com. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page — A recent Powerball winner was arrested after officials said he kicked a deputy in the face during a fight at the TradeWinds Resort on St a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputy arrived at the hotel to break up a fight between 50-year-old James S was also arguing with other patrons inside the hotel and appeared "very intoxicated." Farthing then kicked the deputy in the face The deputy then told Farthing to turn around and put his hands behind his back The deputy said Farthing then attempted to flee on foot out of the hotel Farthing was arrested and is facing multiple charges including resisting an officer with violence and battery on a law enforcement officer Fightmaster was also arrested for disorderly intoxication The hotel staff told officials they want to press charges The Scripps News Group in Lexington, Kentucky, reported that Farthing was the recent winner of the Kentucky lottery, splitting the $167 million prize with his mother the attorney for Clearwater boat owner Jeffry Knight has sent a second letter to the chief investigator of the April 27 collision between Knight’s vessel and the Clearwater Ferry A passenger aboard the ferry died at the scene Kevin Hayslett tells Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission investigator Richard Schefano that Knight remained at the scene in accordance with Florida Statute 327.30(5) which compels the operator of a vessel involved in a collision to stay and render aid This is consistent with Hayslett’s initial letter to Shefano No charges have been filed in the incident Hayslett includes what he says are handwritten notarized statements from several passengers on Knight’s boat and he said to call 911,” Kathryn Talbert wrote “One of the other girls on the boat called while I went back to check on my friends Everyone was yelling to go back to the boat to be sure people were not in the water and there was a big ship there that was also helping We pulled up to the boat and I was asking if anyone on board needed to get to shore or if there was any way we could help I asked the passengers closest to us when we tied on to their boat if anyone needed to be rushed to shore They said two people were pretty hurt but no one got aboard when we offered Next thing I know we saw the cops and EMT arriving on shore.” One of Knight’s passengers was on board with an 8-week-old infant “I went to look at what happened and realized we hit another vessel …,” wrote Alexis Ringel “What do you want us to do?” He said call the cops Katie was busy checking in on all of us and the baby I answered questions about where we were and if anyone was hurt While on the phone we went to the other boat and Jeff tied his boat to theirs “I saw EMTs and police pulling up to the vessel and Jeff untied the boat from ours Blair (was) still hysterical while holding (the baby).” Video from a stationary camera at a nearby park shows Knight’s boat remaining in the area for approximately eight minutes Police caught up with it at a boat ramp three miles to the south Ringel’s 911 call lasted the entire 11 minutes is quoted: “I heard Jeff screaming “What the f*** Blair came to the rear of the boat and sat on the ground with the baby and I was consoling her I heard Katie ask “Jeff what can I do?” Jeff responded and told her to call 911.” Alexis called 911 and Jeff pulled his boat up to the ferry to tie them to his boat (so officials could access the boat He put them in about 3ft of water near the shore).” The attorney concluded by saying the 40-foot ferry was operating without stern lights when Knight’s boat approached it from the rear “From the sworn witness statements already in your possession there is consistent and credible evidence that no stern light was visible at the time of the incident,” Hayslett wrote “… Our lighting and reconstruction experts will seek to evaluate the exact position and arc of visibility of the stern light (if any) Our intent is to determine whether the ferry’s lighting complied not just generally as required for commercial vessels operating with passengers aboard.” Investigators have no issued any public statements Knight was given a Breathalyzer test at the boat ramp A GoFundMe page opened by his family has so far brought in more than $37,0000 The boat owned by Jeffry Knight of Clearwater is removed from the scene by investigators April 27 More questions than answers in deadly ferry collision Victim, boat operator’s names released in fatal Clearwater accident Jeffry Knight, Jannus Live sever ties The ferry is part of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority This accident involves a Death and multiple injuries on Public Transportation they must be notified if a bone bigger than a finger or toe is broken or if there is substantial damage to the aircraft as well as those related to the transportation of hazardous materials Why was Knight only given a BAC test but no blood test Isnt a blood test required at an accident resulting in a fatality Are pleasure boats/yachts required to have headlights “I asked the passengers closest to us when we tied on to their boat if anyone needed to be rushed to shore Would anyone choose to board a boat that had just collided from the rear (stern) of the ferry you were on most opinion in Clearwater is that the girls had been drinking and were sitting down in the seats..so they wouldn’t see anything anyway…no view and they were drinking who has a history of distracted/altered/influenced driving and partying of one sort or another was not paying attention or was under the influence of something If the boat was taking on water why not beach it on the sandbar Everyone can see a rear light on the Ferry boat and to blame Clearwater Ferry for this is appalling…We also see Katie Talbert is in the music biz in DT St Pete and has posted about things at Janus Live Knight’s venue…Interesting and not credible The frontier office building in downtown st the windowless Frontier building at 821 1st Avenue North is finally set to see new life 233,590-square-foot office and data center which is partially leased by Frontier Communications The proposed redevelopment includes 41,333 square feet of ground-floor retail space Originally constructed in 1928 by the General Telephone Company of Florida the building was expanded in 1967 and 1970 Nearly the entire ground floor will be converted into retail spaces ranging from 1,550 to 3,900 square feet These spaces will front all four sides of the building: 1st Avenue North The upper floors will include existing office space for Frontier Communications and new self-storage units an entity affiliated with New Jersey-based Avalair Group LLC purchased the Frontier building and an adjacent surface parking lot in 2021 for $13,445,400 The following year, New York-based Abacus Capital Group acquired the surface lot for $10.75 million. In 2024, a 21-story, 292-unit apartment tower with 373 parking spaces was approved for the site a rendering of the previously approved 21-STORY 292-unit RESIDENTIAL BUILDING that would be developed next to the frontier office building | ABACUS CAPITAL GROUP To meet parking requirements for the Frontier redevelopment the building's owners have entered into a shared parking agreement with the owners of the surface lot This agreement allows the new apartment tower’s parking facilities to support both the residential units and the uses proposed in the Frontier building The unified site plan also includes 913 1st Avenue North the current location of the EDGE Animal Hospital While the veterinary clinic will remain unchanged its inclusion in the plan allows the overall project to qualify for increased density The redevelopment is undergoing the city’s streamlined review process and is expected to receive approval by mid-May The project’s legal representation is led by Katie Cole of Hill Ward Henderson The development team also includes Tampa-based C&K Architects and St Petersburg-based engineering firm George F Mother’s Day weekend has been inexorably linked to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge tragedy just like this year – when an errant freighter violent storm just as it was about to pass under the massive structure collided with a support pier and sent more than 1,200 feet of concrete and steel plummeting 150 feet into Tampa Bay Thirty-five people from the bridge died when their vehicles dropped the entire distance and hit the water at a high velocity The last to fall was a Greyhound bus with 25 passengers and a driver aboard Among the passengers were six students from Alabama’s Tuskegee Institute heading home to Florida at the end of the school year and anxious to get there in time for Mother’s Day Out of the dozen or so students who’d boarded the bus back at Tuskegee most had already been dropped off as it chugged out of the St Petersburg station and headed south of U.S gazing out the windows as a light rain began to fall: Duane Adderley just moments after the Greyhound began the long ascent to the top of the Skyway under a suddenly-black sky and pounding rain was a student at Tallahassee Community College Also boarding in the capital city was 24-year-old Wanda McGarragh who was in the Masters program at Florida State University’s College of Education She carried in her lap her 6-month-old daughter The Sunshine Skyway Bridge disaster was the moment St Petersburg lost its innocence; no longer was it a Molasses-slow Mayberry type of small town where nothing bad it remains the worst ship/bridge collision its port bow anchor pinned to the bottom by debris from the fallen Sunshine Skyway span Petersburg car dealer Paul “Dick” Hornbuckle; he and three friends escaped the vehicle after it slid to a stop 14 inches from the break Catalyst Senior Writer and Editor Bill DeYoung is the author of Skyway: The True Story of Tampa Bay’s Signature Bridge and the Man Who Brought it Down (University Press of Florida) In commemoration of the 45th anniversary of the tragedy, he will give a power point presentation Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Petersburg Museum of History (part of the “Happy Hour With the Historian” series). Tickets are available at this link as a benefit for the Gulf Beaches Historical Society Museum which was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene Petersburg’s Mayor Ken Welch will not officially launch his reelection campaign for another year fundraising season is now in full swing.  Donations to his political action committee, Pelican PAC Pritchett II called those early results “record-breaking numbers” Thursday evening at a private fundraising event.  Welch said he briefly pondered a reelection bid after an “unusual” four years in office: “Is this really what I want to do?” he asked himself “Where else would you rather be than leading your hometown through a challenging time?” Welch told the Catalyst His tenure began during a pandemic – Welch was sworn in virtually He has since led the city through a devastating hurricane season and yet another chapter in an ongoing saga with the Tampa Bay Rays.  However, Welch believes those challenges have strengthened the city He said internal and external stakeholders “now know we can execute a super big deal” like the Historic Gas Plant District’s $6.5 billion redevelopment.  In March, the Rays walked away from long-negotiated plans to transform Tropicana Field and its sprawling parking lots into a vibrant mixed-use community anchored by a new ballpark Petersburg is now in a better position with “those development rights back in the city’s hands.”  “We’re not going to waver from equitably developing the Historic Gas Plant,” he continued Welch said his administration has learned how to promote diversity equity and inclusion without drawing the ire of state and federal leadership He used the city’s Hometown Recovery Haulers initiative as an example Small businesses and private citizens using whatever vehicles were available collected tons of vegetation construction materials and flooded appliances from neighborhood curbs The impromptu storm cleanup crews earned $1.574 million for hauling 5,247 loads to collection sites but folks on both sides of the aisle are saying that’s the way you should do things,” Welch said Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders said Welch’s 20-year tenure as a Pinellas County commissioner and four years as a mayor provided a unique understanding of the community’s needs She believes his “pillars of progress” have fostered groundbreaking equitable practices.  Figgs-Sanders also credited Welch’s measured demeanor “With what we are dealing with in the City of St there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he has to return for four years,” she said Council Chair Copley Gerdes echoed that sentiment “I think being able to take the emotion out and really look at the facts is what makes Ken (Welch) exactly what St Voters approved a city charter amendment the following year that moved municipal elections to even-numbered years to align with state and national races Elected officials gained another year in office.  Welch’s father, David, was the first Black man elected to the city council. The self-proclaimed “child of the Gas Plant” has prioritized helping fulfill long-deferred promises to the African American community that once called the neighborhood home during segregation.  “Ken Welch is not playing games – he wouldn’t accept a bad deal,” Pritchett said of his refusal to offer the Rays additional funding “He has also not forgotten about our ancestors.”  No one has formally stepped forward to run against Welch He would remain mayor through 2030 if reelected in November 2026.  Challengers will undoubtedly arise. Welch’s negotiations with the Rays and response to back-to-back hurricanes will likely dominate debates.  Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway and new Fire Chief Keith Watts “I see nothing but progress for our city going forward even the Historic Gas Plant,” Welch said.  “That whole process of working with the county really hasn’t happened on a project anywhere near that size,” he added “Building those relationships – we know we can put that kind of a package together – really puts us in a better position.” He lost me with more “feasibility studies” for destroying Albert Whitted and now Al Lang The Rays had a sweetheart deal but this ownership group is broke and sucks imo I’d vote for Rick Baker before any other thus far but I will not be doing either one this time around Mayor Welch has been a complete disappointment as a leader of our City Maybe he will be as successful building his warchest as he was with moffitt this guy couldnt build two lego blocks together … I am so sick of “our strength is our diversity” garbage and DEI is so detrimental I grew up here from the 50s and moved to Colorado 20 years ago I hope Mayor Welch reads these comments and responds I am concerned about our failing sewer system that needs immediate attention and new residences on multi-levels are being built Welch’s tenure has been characterized by a series of spectacular failures Why would any thinking voter cast a ballot for more of the same more forward-thinking candidates jump into this race He showed us exactly who he is and what he is (in)capable of in his first term His failures on major issues (the Moffitt Center His accomplishments are mainly DEI related and with St.Pete’s growth and trajectory we can no longer afford to be governed by career politicians that lack the skills or experience needed to make our city prosper So let’s find someone who knows what they are doing and stop playing political games I will not be voting for him a second time and I doubt many of my friends will based on discussions we have already begun having He will need a lot more than six figures to overcome his dismal record He negotiated the worst deal with the Rays in the history of MLB The Chamber and Partnership will support him That tells you everything that has happened since Kriseman ran a professional shop based on good policy Good luck St Pete in finding objective leadership again What’s his accomplishments so far to promote a second term It was a nice story in the beginning due to his father being the first black councilman and him being the first Mayor but I’m finding it difficult to find things to highlight his tenure up to this point Kriesman left this city with a ton of momentum and progress and Welch seems to have killed it all For a politician to be in this field for as long as he has Petersburg has been pursuing a major redevelopment of the city’s downtown marina since former Mayor Rick Kriseman’s administration Kriseman’s plan to work with a Tennessee-based developer failed to get City Council support in 2021 Many at the time wondered why the city couldn’t just handle the renovations and keep a city asset under public control While the complete transaction means Safe Harbor can now “direct greater focus toward the Marina redevelopment project,” Corbett wrote, the city will also “revisit the cost and process of redeveloping the marina independently.” “This dual-track approach ensures we are positioned to proceed with the redevelopment as quickly as possible following the appropriate City Council approval,” Corbett wrote. According to records obtained by the Tampa Bay Times, city officials emailed a draft agreement to developers Feb. 14 and asked for feedback. The city’s manager of the marina and port, David Wirth, said the city would like to bring the contract to City Council in March. Wirth followed up again March 26. Jason Hogg, principal of Waterview Marinas, representing Safe Harbor, apologized for the delay because of “the overall transaction and transition with our new partner/owner to be.” Hogg said the two parties were better off putting together a “major issues list” before trading revisions of contracts “without a mutual understanding on any larger conceptual issues.” Corbett told council members in his Thursday email that his team received comments from Safe Harbor about the draft lease agreement Wednesday night. “While it is still too early to asses the full scope and impact of their feedback, our team is committed to a thorough and timely review over the next week,” he wrote. The deal in place gives Safe Harbor, which operates the Harborage Marina at Bayboro, a five-year lease to complete a $48 million overhaul of the marina by Oct. 1, 2029, in exchange for managing the marina and keeping that revenue. Because of the city charter‘s strong protections of the waterfront, the city can’t grant a longer timeframe without a voter referendum approving that contract. Safe Harbor must renovate all marina docks, slips, pilings, restrooms, comfort stations, lounge buildings, pump-out stations and all marina-related amenities. Safe Harbor would pay the city a 10% cut on slip and dock rents and 5% cut on retail and fuel sales. The city and Safe Harbor could work out another five-year extension or a longer lease with voter approval, or the city could buy out Safe Harbor for $48 million that can’t be paid for with property taxes. Safe Harbor would also repair and replace the marina’s seawalls with city reimbursement. playTropicana Field roof damaged from Hurricane Milton (0:59)Check out some of the damage Hurricane Milton caused to the home of the Tampa Bay Rays ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The once and possibly future home of the Tampa Bay Rays will get a new roof to replace the one shredded by Hurricane Milton with the goal of having the ballpark ready for the 2026 season Petersburg City Council voted 7-1 to approve $22.5 million to begin the repairs at Tropicana Field which will start with a membrane roof that must be in place before other work can continue Although the Rays pulled out of a planned $1.3 billion new stadium deal the city is still contractually obligated to fix the Trop The agreement requires us to fix the stadium," said council member Lissett Hanewicz "We need to go forward with the roof repair so we can do the other repairs." The hurricane damage forced the Rays to play home games this season at Steinbrenner Field across the bay in Tampa, the spring training home of the New York Yankees The Rays went 4-2 on their first homestand ever at an open-air ballpark the Rays owe three more seasons at the Trop once it's ready again for baseball It's unclear if the Rays will maintain a long-term commitment to the city or look to Tampa or someplace else for a new stadium Major League Baseball has said keeping the team in the Tampa Bay region is a priority The Rays have played at the Trop since their inception in 1998 "We are pleased to see City Council take this important step toward preparing Tropicana Field for Major League Baseball in time for 2026 opening day," Rays co-president Brian Auld said in a statement Rays and MLB staff for their cooperative efforts to get us to this point." The overall cost of Tropicana Field repairs is estimated at $56 million the work includes fixing the playing surface ensuring audio and visual electronics are working getting concession stands running and other issues We feel like we're in a good place," Quintana said at the council meeting Thursday the roof installation will take about 10 months The unique membrane system is fabricated in Germany and assembled in China adding that officials are examining how President Donald Trump's new tariffs might affect the cost will be able to withstand hurricane winds as high as 165 mph one of the strongest hurricanes ever in the Atlantic basin at one point 9 south of Tampa Bay with Category 3 winds of about 125 mph the Rays last month pulled out of a deal with the city and Pinellas County for a new $1.3 billion ballpark to be built near the Trop site That was part of a broader $6.5 billion project known as the Historic Gas Plant district to bring housing arts and a Black history museum to a once-thriving Black neighborhood razed for the original stadium The city council plans to vote on additional Trop repair costs over the next few months I'd much rather be spending that money on hurricane recovery and helping residents in the most affected neighborhoods," council member Brandi Gabbard said Log in to comment on videos and join in on the fun Watch the live stream of Fox News and full episodes Reduce eye strain and focus on the content that matters Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker An artificial intelligence and robotics-powered manufacturing facility with a local focus is ready to disrupt the furniture industry Local civic and business leaders celebrated Haddy opening its first microfactory Thursday afternoon in the city. The 32,000-square-foot facility is, despite its moniker, the world’s largest 3D printing hub.  Mayor Ken Welch called the grand opening a major milestone for both the company and the city.  “Haddy’s commitment to local manufacturing utilizing the latest technologies – and a commitment to sustainability – is a stellar example of what progress will look like Petersburg but for our nation and worldwide,” Welch said.  the local startup uses sustainable materials to manufacture everything from furniture to aerospace products The microfactory at 251 10th St. N. represents a paradigm shift for the manufacturing industry. Rogers, a Florida native and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, said Haddy’s roots began in 1995 when he pondered the internet’s potential for powering machines.  The startup now employs eight robots that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to 3D print furniture and other products with recycled materials Rogers noted that automated systems are “doing the real work” and “getting smarter along the way.” companies have outsourced manufacturing to countries with significantly lower labor costs Tariffs and trade wars have exacerbated a complex problem and building new large-scale production facilities in the U.S would take years and billions of dollars.  Rogers believes proximate manufacturing – strategically moving production closer to target markets – is the solution A global network of microfactories with continuously learning highly customizable products while avoiding trade tensions and supply chain disruptions.  “It isn’t going to be made in America,” Rogers said of future products vice president of additive manufacturing (3D printing) at Siemens AG flew in from Germany to attend the ceremony The company provides Haddy’s automation software.  Heuser said a startup needs a compelling strategy a strong leader and robust partnerships to disrupt a specific industry Forbes recently profiled Rogers and noted Haddy’s 3D-printed products were globally competitive before the latest trade tensions the startup’s unique business model provided a lifeline for Paradeco Coffee Roasters following Hurricane Ian in 2022.  The storm destroyed the local coffee shop’s wooden furniture and bar and the owners couldn’t afford to lose additional revenue while waiting on traditional suppliers Haddy and its robots replaced everything in a day.  “Haddy’s growth and expansion is a clear representation of the spirit of St perseverance and creativity that really defines our city,” Welch said “Specialized manufacturing creates well-paying and skilled jobs.”  Automating labor allows businesses to create higher-salaried science Haddy now employs 12 people; Rogers said some started a day before the grand opening and others have been with the company since its first microfactory was still a “glimmer in our eyes.”  He called it a proud day for an “incredible team of humans that have brought these robots to life.” Welch said Haddy creates “impactful domino effects” for the city’s economy and workforce.  Welch said the occasion “marks a bold step” toward a future shaped by a “unique approach to building the next generation of locally manufactured sustainable products.” He also thanked Rogers and his team for showing tech and manufacturing companies – and the world – that those industries can thrive in St It’s interesting that you say it “employs 8 robots.” I would suggest you change that to “utilizes” The robots don’t have families to support with their “employment.” This just seems like a mostly empty warehouse with a few 3D printers PETERSBURG — City Council members voted Thursday to approve replacing Tropicana Field’s roof shredded by Hurricane Milton last year The vote represents a major step toward readying the dome for the Tampa Bay Rays’ return to St The team is using a temporary home at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa the city is required to make the Trop playable again Council members said they recognized the city’s contractual obligation The Rays are expected to play home games back in the dome next year through the 2028 season “I’d much rather be spending that money on hurricane recovery and helping residents in our most affected neighborhoods,” said council member Brandi Gabbard Council members voted 7-1 to replace the Trop’s roof He said he would have liked to see the city present the numbers for what a settlement with the Rays would’ve cost compared to repairs The city could have bought the Rays out of playing their final three seasons at the Trop The council voted in November to replace the roof but Rays president Brian Auld said the team preferred a settlement Auld said the team doubted repairs would be done on time and at cost and would have to come up with a backup plan to play elsewhere The council then called back its vote and rejected that funding The Rays later changed their position and endorsed fixing the Trop “We are pleased to see City Council take this important step toward preparing Tropicana Field for Major League Baseball in time for 2026 Opening Day,” Auld said in a statement Thursday and MLB staff for their cooperative efforts to get us to this point.” The city and the county dismissed that idea Floyd on Thursday called that a starting point for negotiations as he would never support spending that much “What we’re doing today is voting to approve something with a finite price attached to it today but still with a range of variables ahead,” he said City Administrator Rob Gerdes said the city had multiple discussion about that with the Rays, but said any settlement would have lost the city reimbursements from insurance and Federal Emergency Management Agency. Subscribe to our free Sports Today newsletter You’re all signed up!Want more of our free, weekly newsletters in your inbox? Let’s get started. “Just doesn’t make financial sense for the city,” he said The council still needs to vote on non-roof related repairs Those votes are expected to come before the council this summer Council member Lisset Hanewicz asked if those costs have increased since they were estimated last year “We still believe we’re in the range,” said City Architect Raul Quintana Hanewicz said County Commissioner Vince Nowicki suggested to her that the county could chip in tourist dollars for renovations Gerdes said the city is holding off on using county funding but would talk to County Administrator Barry Burton “I find it odd city administration didn’t even come and ask us to chip in,” Nowicki said the contractor that assessed the Trop’s damages last year will return to repair the stadium the Indianapolis-based construction management firm is also the same company that built the Trop 35 years ago Petersburg construction company Hennessy Construction Services to construct a new roof made from white fabric Major League Baseball preferred a white roof which is less expensive than a beige roof and will take less time to install The new roof will be designed to current building codes and could withstand 165 mph winds The material is made in Germany and will be assembled in China then flown to St President Trump announced a 10% tariff on all countries including 34% on China and 20% on the European Union The agreement includes a $100,000 contingency to cover proposed tariffs though some council members doubted that was enough The price of the roof doesn’t include an acoustical liner Special Projects Manager Beth Herendeen said it’s not needed with the installation of a new audio system and the league was OK with that Roof repairs would wrap up just in time for Christmas and turf replacement would continue through February There is some wiggle room for shipping and weather delays Council members voted to transfer or lend $2.5 million from the city’s Parking Revenue Fund, $7.6 million from the Commercial Insurance Fund and $12.8 from a $50 million loan the city took out in December. The vote also included an additional $500,600 to cover project oversight, inspections and permit costs. Jack Prator is a reporter covering breaking news and environment. Reach him at jprator@tampabay.com. PetersburgDíaz-Canel seeks to strengthen ties with Russia to increase tourism exploring direct flights between Havana and St The visit also addresses cooperation in biotechnology and energy By The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel met on Monday with the governor of St to discuss the launch of direct flights between Havana and that Russian city The parties discussed the increase in tourist exchange, which could be facilitated by the inauguration of new direct flights, reads a dispatch from the official TASS agency. Díaz-Canel also expressed gratitude in the meeting for Russia's support for his government and condemned the embargo. Conversely, he criticized the measures taken by the NATO bloc against Russia following the invasion of Putin in Ukraine “Pleased to reconnect with the esteemed friend Alexander Beglov, Governor of Saint Petersburg, and hold a productive meeting. We discussed the historic friendship between our nations and the progress in the economic-commercial and cooperation areas,” the leader wrote about the meeting on his X account. The account of the Presidency of Cuba also reported on the meeting. founder of the first socialist state and leader of the working class," he tweeted about it without mentioning the negotiations regarding the flights The Cuban leader arrived on Sunday in Saint Petersburg as part of an official visit to Russia The Cuban delegation is composed of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla; Emilio Lozada García head of the Department of International Relations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba; and Oscar Pérez-Oliva Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment According to information from the Presidency of Cuba the visit's program includes tours of scientific centers linked to strategic sectors such as biotechnology with an agenda aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas for the development of the Island Russia is one of the main sources of tourists to the struggling Cuban economy Cuba received only 571,772 international visitors far below official targets and pre-pandemic levels Russia has been one of the few countries that has maintained a steady flow of tourists to Cuba although it has also reduced its numbers in recent months On Saturday, it was revealed that the Cuban regime has sealed a new agreement with the Russian agency Rus Cuba Dive to promote diving tourism in the Ciénaga de Zapata as announced during the International Tourism Fair (FITCuba 2025) Díaz-Canel seeks to open direct flights to increase tourist exchange between Cuba and Russia This measure could boost the arrival of Russian tourists to the island a vital flow for the Cuban economy that has seen a decline in international visitors in recent months The economic relationship between Cuba and Russia is crucial for the island due to its dependence on key sectors such as energy and tourism Russia has provided significant credits and technical assistance to help Cuba tackle its energy crisis and is an important trading partner in the region The Cuban regime strengthens its dependence on Russia through economic and political agreements which include the acceptance of Russian credits and the granting of preferential conditions to Russian companies in strategic sectors such as transportation and energy Cuba has been criticized for not condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and has supported Moscow in international organizations This stance has been viewed as a reflection of its dependence on Russia and its alignment with the Kremlin despite the sovereignty violations represented by the invasion A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis the Cuban head of State started his activities honoring the defenders of the city of Leningrad (today St chairman of the Committee for External Relations of St held official talks to discuss the prospects for bilateral cooperation in economy the Cuban president will also visit scientific and artificial intelligence development centers in the capital of northern Russia In the second stage of his official visit to this nation the Cuban leader will travel to Moscow where he will take part in the commemorative acts and parade at the Red Square for the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany He will also participate in the celebrations organized on the 65th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Russia and Cuba | Text SMS to 8100 with content PLReceive 4 mesages x 25 cup © 2016-2021 Prensa Latina Latin American News Agency Radio – Publications  – Videos – News by the minute.All Rigts Reserved Web Site developed by IT Division  Prensa Latina Results of the final game day of the Final Four-2025 The VTB Youth League Final Four 2025 ended at Basket Hall Zenit-M and Pari NN-Junior played for 3rd place The teams that have previously won bronze: the St Roman Knyazev team had 3 hours more to rest and prepare for this clash but Nizhny Novgorod tried to take the initiative in the first minutes Substitutions and aggressive defense in the paint allowed Zenit-M to quickly change the game – the team scored 14 points in the last 5 minutes of the opening quarter to take a double-digit lead – 18:8 Nizhny Novgorod offensive problems didn’t disappear in the second quarter only 2 NN players managed to score points – Yaroslav Anikin (11) and Artem Kovalenko (6) while the rest of the team had 12 shots from the field and no made shots It was very difficult to expect a good result with such an efficient offense and the score difference reached 20 points by halftime but then Pari NN-Junior transformed its game in the third quarter Ilya Rodionov team decided to push the tempo Intrigue in the bronze game returned immediately after Nizhny Novgorod’s 4 long-range shots Pari NN-Junior didn’t have enough energy for the end MBA-MAI Junior becomes the strongest team of the VTB Youth League for the first time For the first time in the history of the VTB Youth League Both CSKA Junior (8 games in the finals) and MBA-MAI Junior (1 game in the finals) already had experience in the such games while MBA-MAI had never won the championship at all And although both coaches said a lot of words before the game about the importance of defense in the final who scored 10 points in the opening quarter without a single miss while the MBA-MAI-Junior players relied on the duo of Matvey Padius – Maxim Ogarkov Maxim Ogarkov defense was another important factor of the game His blocks allowed to make several additional possessions which forced coaching staff to hide his in the bench MBA-MAI-Junior won first half – 46:42 The second half immediately made it clear that this game would have interesting ending The leader had changed 5 times in the third quarter teams’ leaders’ had foul trouble Maxim Ogarkov got the rebound and made a shot with a buzzer – 77:75 MBA-MAI-Junior became the VTB United Youth League champion for the first time in its history Vladimir Semenchenko (Pari NN-Junior) and Matvey Padius (MBA-Junior) are in the Team of Final Four 2025 Alexander Afanasiev named the best coach of the tournament Maxim Ogarkov (MBA-MAI-Junior) was the MVP of Final Four 2025 7 rebounds and 8 blocks in the deciding game points – Maxim Ogarkov (MBA-MAI-Junior) – 14 points points – Alexander Porotnikov (Zenit-M) – 17 points points – Yaroslav Anikin (Pari NN-Junior) – 19 points points – Ilia Ermakov (CSKA-Junior) – 15 points points – Egor Yevstafiev (Zenit-M) – 11 points MBA-MAI Junior celebrate the first win in the VTB Youth League final Petersburg will face Lokomotiv Kuban in the Semifinal series to 4 wins Lokomotiv Kuban: 4th place (32 wins and 12 losses) The first time the opponents played on October 6 in St and a few days later Xavier Moon was seriously injured Xavier Pascual team started a record winning streak Petersburg team has been playing quality basketball for a long time This is largely due to the class of players The Krasnodar team youth has a lot of energy and excitement but it’s often skill and confidence that makes the difference in Playoffs And Xavier Pascual’s team has a lot more Andrei Vedischev made a brilliant debut as Loko coach But Xavier Pascual has a lot of experience not just in postseason games Emotional and athletic basketball has been Loko trademark for several years now And it can give the Krasnodar team success against Zenit Loko managed get Zenit into fast-paced game the clashes will be interesting and unpredictable The regular season games gave the impression that Loko is the most uncomfortable opponent for Zenit Petersburg team’s positional basketball doesn’t fit in with Loko aggressive style constant pressure on the opponent and a quick transition from defense to offense should help the Krasnodar team to reach the Finals The Krasnodar team also used three-pointers but not so good as the opposing team (90 of 277 – 32.5%).But this element is also important for Loko The Krasnodar team played 2 worst games in the series with Uralmash when failed to made long-range shots (17.2% and 23.1%) the Krasnodar team had no problems (47.8% and 40%) Zenit hasn’t lost at home for 12 games Petersburg team lost at home on January 11 to Lokomotiv Kuban The Krasnodar team has the best record in the regular season against Top-4 teams (7-5) A tugboat performs with water cannons in Neva River during the Icebreakers Festival in St The traditional Icebreakers Festival was held here from May 1 to May 4 officially kicking off this year's tourism season Tugboats perform with their water cannons in Neva River during the Icebreakers Festival in St A tugboat performs with its water cannons in Neva River during the Icebreakers Festival in St People watch tugboats performing with their water cannons in the waters of the Neva River during the Icebreakers Festival in St The Crow's Nest history isn’t just something you read about; it rolls across the green every week.   Tucked between high rises and the city buzz is a small, green field at 536 4th Ave. N. that is home to Florida’s oldest formally organized lawn bowling club — a welcoming community built around a sport that values precision the club has drawn players from across the country many coming for the warm weather and staying for the game.  arrived 15 years ago along with his wife for their first Florida winter They checked out the senior center located right next to the bowling club and discovered the game.   In 1980, the clubhouse was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places officially cementing it as a local treasure what makes the club special isn’t just its architecture or history the stories and the rhythm of a game that is part sport lawn bowling might seem like a laid-back hobby but a delicate and precise practice hides under the surface Players take turns rolling heavy and slightly asymmetrical bowls toward a smaller white ball Controlling the ball path requires strategy The goal is simple: get your bowl as close to the jack as possible But the execution takes some practice.  Games usually last around two and a half hours Points are scored based on how many bowls are closer to the jack than the nearest bowl of the opposing team A small measuring tool is often used to make the call mentioned that they are always happy to see new faces and pass this historic game on.  He also shared the club’s motto: “When that great scorer comes to write against your name ‘Did you win or lose?’ but how you played the game.”  measure distances and adjust their techniques with each turn A quiet intensity keeps players coming back for more.  Many members came to the club curious and stayed because of the people Lawn bowling offers more than a workout or a hobby It creates connection — regulars greet each other like family and get together during the holidays Newcomers are welcomed with patience and encouragement.   “We wouldn’t be walking if it weren’t for this game.”   speaks to the game’s power to bring joy movement and motivation no matter the player’s age the lawn bowling club remains a bridge between the past and present It’s a reminder that even in a fast-changing city there are spaces where tradition and togetherness still matter.  welcoming beginners and experienced bowlers alike.   Free lessons are offered three times a week and all equipment is provided.   All that’s needed is a willingness to try something new.  Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. ST. PETERSBURG | St Pete Pride kicked off its 2025 season with Shades of Pride May 2 at Nova 535, the nonprofit’s annual celebration of Black, queer joy. This year’s event elevated “the journeys of Black queer individuals — past, present and future,” St Pete Pride shared ahead of time. LGBTQ+ activist and entertainer TS Madison returned alongside fellow advocate Craig “The Writer” Stewart to host the evening Shades of Pride also included a cocktail hour, assorted food, a special panel and performances. Featured entertainers included comedian Akeem Woods and Miss St Pete Pride Kiala Santi The entertainer said she was honored to participate “It feels good to be able to be a voice for our community,” the Royal Court member told Watermark Out News being Miss St Pete Pride means a lot for me because it lets other Black trans women know that we can do more in our community and there are so many ways to be an activist so it just feels really good.” Watermark Out News was on hand to help celebrate Additional reporting/photos by Luis Salazar Sign up to receive our weekly newsletters today Please select what you would like included for printing: Copy the text below and then paste that into your favorite email application We are saddened to announce that Ethan Randy Hedden passed away suddenly on Thursday He is survived by his loving parents Jason and Michelle Hedden and sister Katelyn Hedden He also leaves behind grandparents Randy and Bonnie Hedden Preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Art and Celeste Laszlo a big heart and an infectious smile that lit up every room He was the type of person that made friends everywhere he went starting a conversation and making people laugh His joyful and carefree spirit was the type of person you couldn’t help but love IL and graduated from Lincoln-Way West High School in 2019 He went on to become an electrician under the guidance of his uncle and cousin at Vision Electric After his time at Vision Electric he moved on to become a lead electrician for Red Royal Electric in St Throughout Ethan’s life he enjoyed sports and competition Ethan and His mother both took Jeet Kun Do lessons working out and exercising were important to him In addition to physical sports he also competed in many eSports tournaments.Ethan also enjoyed playing pool with his family At an early age he learned how to play pool from his dad and joined the Kankakee Valley APA league on a team with his parents and friends Ethan loved being outside and finding new adventures He’s visited beaches across the United States and Caribbean He quickly made friends there and was able to live the beach life he always wanted God not only blessed us with time to grow stronger bonds with Ethan these past few years and allowed him to fulfill his dreams but also reached him to ensure his eternity in heaven Ethan’s life was full of love and adventure He will be deeply missed by his family and friends “Your brother will rise again.” “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” even though they die: and whoever lives by believing in me will never die Family will recieve friends on Sunday May 4 from 3-8pm at Kurtz Memorial Chapel in New Lenox Interment will follow at Maplewood Cemetery Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors On Sunday, April 27, I stood on the beach at Vinoy Park in St. Pete in a crowd of some 900 people all wearing the same green silicone cap. Some of us were jogging in place, dancing, or chatting out of excitement or nervousness. We were waiting for the gun to go off to run into the water, beginning the sprint distance triathlon (750m swim, 20K bike, 5K run) at the 42nd St. Anthony’s Triathlon. It was a beautiful Sunday with a high of 89 degrees and some 3,100 athletes from around the country came to downtown St There were so many bodies in the water during the swim trying to slip through gaps between shoulders and hips to pass Breathing on only one side because the sun was right in my eyes and the waves came in on the left Some people were kind enough to stop kicking when they felt my face on their feet the winner of the women’s olympic distance triathlon that day (1.5K swim finished her race in less than two hours “despite an unfortunate encounter with a stingray as she entered the water,” according to a press release Anthony’s Triathlon attempt the best one yet.” The transition area where all the bikes and shoes were was some half mile from where we got out of the water The person whose bike was set up next to mine tried to make small talk while I put on my socks and shoes My breathing was too hard and my heart rate too high to reply Mark Dubrick won the men’s olympic distance triathlon and the $10,000 prize that comes with it This is Dubrick’s second consecutive win at the St “I just want to say thank you to everybody and I actually have my parents here with me (from Chicago),” said Dubrick The race played out exactly how I wanted it to.” Look for more things to do in St. Petersburg, Gulfport, and the beaches? Check out The Gabber Newspaper’s full calendar of events The bike ride took us west on 1st Avenue South out to 28th Street and back I love the Pinellas Trail as much as the next cyclist but the pavement on 1st Avenue was a treat to ride on Athletes rode every type of bicycle in the world I saw multi thousand dollar triathlon bikes (flat as cardstock and super aerodynamic) But there was little correlation between how nice someone’s ride was and how often they said “On your left!” before passing me The second transition was much faster than the first and I rode in my running shoes so I didn’t have to change them It took less than 2 minutes to start the run I pounded pavement for about a mile before I slowed down to a walk I was saved by the water station volunteers handing out cups of ice I put the ice in my hat and it melted and cooled me as I ran The final steps over the finish line were the last steps I had in me Volunteers immediately put ice water towels on me and gave me my medal It took an army of volunteers to manage the thousands of athletes and spectators in downtown St or checking that bib numbers matched bike numbers but they all stopped to cheer when we passed I’d never raced a triathlon before and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done For more South Pinellas news, subscribe to our weekly newsletters. Make thegabber.com your homepage to stay up-to-date on all the news happening in Gulfport by Ethan Perelstein Support The Gabber Newspaper Your donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law The Florida Community News Fund is a program administered by the Florida Press Foundation All donations made at this link go to The Gabber Newspaper through the Florida Press Association Filed Under: News Tagged With: , , Watch our LIVE streaming Gulfport Florida Webcams! Gulfport Casino Webcam Gulfport Beach Webcam Marina East Webcam Marina West Webcam Downtown Gulfport Webcam © 2025 All Rights Reserved | The Gabber Newspaper FloridaServing South Pinellas County and our Gulf Beaches in Florida including South Pasadena After suffering significant damage from last year’s back-to-back hurricanes Pete is expected to be demolished and replaced with a boutique hotel Local entrepreneur and developer Steve Gianfilippo of Gianco Companies who purchased the building at 300 Central Avenue in 2017 which will incorporate mid-century design elements reminiscent of the original structure vacant structure will undergo interim repairs while plans for the new hotel are being drawn up “In the seven years that I’ve owned the building we’ve looked at a few different options,” said Gianfilippo in a conversation with St we considered turning it into fully furnished apartments But with thousands of new apartments already planned or built recently we saw a larger opportunity to bring a new boutique hotel to downtown St The existing building at 300 Central, built in 1924, suffered extensive damage during last year’s back-to-back hurricanes and is expected to be demolished for a 16-story boutique hotel | Apartments.com The most recent plan was to keep the existing structure and renovate it into a hotel—taking it from 40 units to 61 Gianfilippo was full steam ahead with that approach “I never wanted to look at this as a ground-up development because I’ve always focused on preserving St “But the storm forced us to rethink everything as a completely new build.” Gianfilippo has purchased and preserved The Cordova Inn at 253 2nd Avenue North the Springstead Warehouse (now Station House) at 260 1st Avenue South and the Green-Richman Arcade (now Station House Arcade) at 689 Central Avenue historically known as the Smith Empire building and the Coronet 300 since 1966 was constructed in 1924 as a commercial building and adapted for use as a mixed-use residential building in the 1960s The building is not on the Local or National Register of Historic Places The proposed $20 million hotel will contain around 70 rooms in a 16-story The ground floor will feature a lobby and retail space with potential outdoor seating at the corner of 3rd Street South and Central Avenue Local architect Behar + Peteranecz designed the building with Mid-Century Modern elements such as breeze block on the ground floor and west-side exterior façade Although no on-site parking will be provided the property steps away from dozens of great restaurants PSTA bus stops and SunRunner stations are minutes away Gianfilippo has also secured 21 offsite parking spaces a 16-story boutique hotel proposed for 300 Central Avenue in downtown St Gianfilippo said he is currently in talks to partner with a prominent hotel brand for the project “The brand we’re aiming to bring in would be a fantastic addition to downtown St construction is expected to begin by the end of the year with an estimated construction timeline of 18 months Next year’s Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding is scheduled for Feb as the dates were approved unanimously via a resolution at the City of St Petersburg (Florida) City Council meeting held May 1 “The 2025 event was another tremendous success with record crowds across the three days,” said Kim Green chairman and CEO of event organizers Green Savoree Racing Promotions “After consulting with the City of St Petersburg staff and multiple stakeholders INDYCAR and our Green Savoree Racing Promotions teams agree continuing this great downtown tradition on similar dates is optimal We look forward to planning for and hosting the Grand Prix on the same weekend in 2026.” Three-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Alex Palou won for the first time in his career on the streets of St Petersburg at this year’s race March 2 Tickets for the 2026 Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding will go on sale in the fall 2025 INDYCAR® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF BRICKYARD TRADEMARKS, INC. / PRIVACY POLICY & TERMS OF USE The development group behind what will become St Petersburg’s tallest and first luxury-branded building has unveiled new project details as sales commence acquisition director for Property Markets Group told the Catalyst that a “whisper” sales campaign for the Waldorf Astoria Residences St The firm is already processing three contracts with units ranging from roughly $2.5 million to $6 million The mixed-use project’s height has increased from 49 to 50 stories. However, the most significant change since city council members unanimously approved the landmark development in November 2024 is its $225 million price tag we’re probably in that $500 million class of total cost,” Glickman said “We’re in the middle of building several billion dollars worth of construction right now around the country we’re pretty in the know about what things are costing now – and how to plan for that.”  A new rendering highlights the project’s (second high-rise from left) scale compared to other downtown buildings Miami-based Property Markets Group (PMG) is leading a joint venture with St. Petersburg’s Feldman Equities, publicly traded City Office REIT and Tower Realty Partners The latter three firms own the City Center office building at 100 2nd Ave Tampa-based Smith & Associates Real Estate is overseeing sales of the Waldorf Astoria Residences St The tower will soar 540 feet above 150 2nd Ave The development team previously said the tower would offer 63,251 square feet of in-demand Class A office space downtown. Plans, which could continue evolving Glickman noted the project’s overall size has likely increased He said market uncertainty and tariffs are “absolutely” concerning as builders must import many construction materials Glickman also believes PMG’s pre-budgetary cost analysis and estimates are “pretty good right now.” The firm secured a $668 million construction loan from Bank OZK and Related Fund Management in June 2024 to build the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami 1,049-foot skyscraper will become the tallest south of New York City “The fact that Waldorf felt comfortable to bring their brand to St Pete when there are other possible opportunities in the Tampa Bay area … St and the Tampa market is ready for this kind of quality development,” Glickman said The project could break ground by the end of the year or in early 2026 A recently remodeled City Center will soon house a sales office Construction on the Waldorf Residences will take about 30 months The tower will feature two two-story penthouses with private pools overlooking the bay PMG has yet to price or design those units A 46th-floor lounge will open to the public Two and three-bedroom units will encompass between 2,031 and 3,408 square feet. Award-winning design firm BAMO curated custom-built closets stone countertops and smart home technologies Each condominium features expansive terraces with bay vistas, private foyers and balconies designed by CUBE 3 The Waldorf Residences boasts 43,000 square feet of amenity space and a 20,000-square-foot The 18th-floor amenity suite includes a holistic wellness center and a youth entertainment club A 46th-floor Sky Lounge, inspired by the Waldorf Astoria’s historic “Peacock Alley” gathering space Glickman believes about 10,000 square feet of ground-level commercial space will house a public restaurant Hilton will manage the Waldorf Residences. Glickman, a Sarasota resident, said the hotelier would remain “faithful” to the brand while embracing St Petersburg’s vibrant culture and nightlife He said company representatives have vetted the area and their response is “what we thought it would be.” Glickman credited the tower’s unobstructed bay views and proximity to the St “A lot of cities are defined by their landscape … the landmark buildings “I think this is going to be that for Tampa Bay and St It’s an important building that we’re happy to be a part of.”  Petersburg’s “natural progression and extensive growth.” all the politicians talk about affordable housing but units starting at $2.5 million certainly doesn’t sound affordable Queue to Mayor Welch taking complete [and unearned] credit for this with photos of him in 3 …2….1… It looks like The Sky Lounge will be restricted to owners Why is it they want the city to be like New York why don’t they leave it like it used to be to where you could enjoy it and walk down the streets now you don’t dare walk down the streets those of us that grew up around here hate seeing all these changes most people around here can’t afford the stuff anyway it’s ridiculous We can’t wait to go to The Sky Lounge Sales have launched for the Waldorf Astoria Residences in downtown St. Petersburg, a project that will become the city’s tallest tower and its first hotel-branded luxury condominium 539-foot-tall tower planned for 150 2nd Avenue South will include 163 condominiums 73,000 square feet of Class A office space and an extensive collection of high-end residential amenities Pricing for the luxury condominiums start at $2.5 million Petersburg has become one of Florida's premier residential destinations with an influx of new residents driving the demand for high caliber of exceptional properties,” PMG CEO and Founder Kevin Maloney said in an announcement this week “After the success we have witnessed across both Waldorf Astoria Residences in Miami and Denver Cherry Creek we are proud to once again join Hilton in bringing the Waldorf Astoria brand and its renowned world-class service to a new market forever elevating the standards of luxury in the area.” Designed by CUBE 3, with interiors curated by design firm BAMO the tower will be cantilevered over a 17-story podium The building design includes a double-height ground level and accommodations for both long-term and short-term bicycle parking Outdoor terrace at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St Each fully finished two- and three-bedroom residence will feature a private entry foyer and private balconies with bay views These residences will include custom-built closets Italian bathroom vanities with stone countertops and bespoke gourmet kitchens equipped with fully integrated Sub-Zero and Wolf appliance packages 10,000-square-foot rooftop penthouse with a private pool overlooking the bay Living room with expansive bay views at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St “Our goal with the project was to strike a seamless blend between the pinnacle of modern luxury and the effortless coastal sophistication Florida is known for,” BAMO Principal Anne Wilkinson said in a statement “Each texture and material was specifically chosen to pull the best of the property’s locale indoors creating a sense of place and familiarity and relaxation while also delivering the elevated design synonymous with the Waldorf Astoria brand.” resort-style pool deck will be situated on 18th floor featuring a 160-foot east pool with beautiful bay views Also on the 18th floor will be private massage rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness and movement studio There will also be a kids and teen entertainment club will be located on the 46th floor containing a sunset bar Bespoke gourmet kitchen equipped with fully integrated Sub-Zero and Wolf appliance packages Additional residential amenities include 24-hour access to a personal concierge “The introduction of the Waldorf Astoria brand into St Petersburg is a testament to the natural progression and extensive growth the city has undergone over the past few years,” Feldman Equities Larry Feldman said Pete’s incredible rise and are eager to deliver a product to this thriving area that meets the new elevated caliber of living desired by its residents I cannot wait to see all of the opportunities and incredible experiences the new development will contribute to this downtown.” A construction timeline for the project has not yet been announced but the development team anticipates starting work later this year Dining Room at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St Green Turtle Brewery and Public House will open next month at 534 Central Avenue A British-style brewery featuring traditional brewing methods and British fare is set to open next month in the space that Cycle Brewing Cycle Brewing will close its taproom sometime this month but will continue to brew beer at its production warehouse at 2135 5th Avenue South Green Turtle Brewery and Public House located at 534 Central Avenue in downtown St will serve classic styles of beer such as IPAs which are traditional British beers brewed using natural fermentation and served via hand pump “It's the freshest beer you can have because it undergoes secondary fermentation in the cask,” said Todd Bearden who is opening Green Turtle Brewery with his wife Cask ale is a living product containing active yeast which causes it to change over time and require fresh consumption so you can have a few without getting too buzzed or feeling too full Using the same seven-barrel brewing system previously operated by Cycle Brewing the team will be able to produce up to four beers at once Cask ales are traditional British beers brewed using natural fermentation and served via hand pump | Craft Beer Scribe Green Turtle will have three cask ales and eight to ten non-cask ales on tap Other offerings will include English pale ales “We will also have seasonal beers such as a Maibock in the spring more refreshing options like a key lime lager in the summer,” said Bearden Green Turtle will feature special cask ales with rotating flavor profiles “We can get really creative with the cask ales we can add fresh hops or fresh fruit directly into the cask,” said Bearden The brewery may also offer beers from Cycle Brewing as well as rare international brews when available A British pasty is a baked pastry traditionally filled with meat and vegetables | BBC Bearden will install a small kitchen at the end of the bar to serve traditional British fare such as pasties (similar to empanadas) we want people to come for the food,” said Todd Green Turtle plans on showing European football and rugby matches alongside local sports Todd and Colleen originally considered opening the brewery in Marathon a nonprofit sea turtle rehabilitation center The name Green Turtle Brewery was inspired by that connection opening a brewery there would have been financially difficult,” Todd explained we started looking for breweries for sale in Florida and found Cycle Brewing.” having visited countless times to see Colleen’s parents The brewery is scheduled to open in June with the following hours: Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m Follow Green Turtle Brewery and Public House on Facebook and Instagram for updates on its soft opening and upcoming offerings Sales have launched at the Waldorf Astoria Residences, a 50-story luxury condominium tower planned for downtown St. Petersburg. The project is backed by national real estate firm PMG and local developer Feldman Equities along with City Office REIT. Smith & Associates Real Estate will handle sales. Once completed, the Waldorf Astoria Residences will rise above the 46-story Residences at 400 Central, making it the tallest building in the city and St. Petersburg’s first first five-star branded condo. There are 163 condos available for purchase. The developer did not share a specific price range. But “we’ll probably be at the highest price per square foot in the market,” Kevin Maloney, Founder and CEO of PMG told the Tampa Bay Times. A rendering of one of the primary bedrooms at the forthcoming Waldorf Astoria Residences in St. Petersburg. At 50-stories, it will be the city's tallest building. [ ARX Creative ]PMG is building two other Waldorf Astoria-branded condos in Miami and Denver. Maloney said the level of service and amenities that come with the Waldorf name are unlike anything that’s available in the local market right now. Residents will have round-the-clock access to a personal concierge, valet parking, doorman and bellman services. “It’s going to change St. Pete, no question,” he said. “Once we get this up and kind of prove our price point and this luxury product, I think you’re going to see other luxury brands come into the city.” The building was designed by Cube3 and interiors were curated by Bamo. Each condo at the Waldorf Astoria Residences in St. Petersburg will have it's own private terrace. [ ARX Creative ]Each of the two- and three-bedroom units will have private outdoor terraces, custom closets and top of the line appliances. They range from 2,031 to 3,408 square feet. There’s also a two story, 10,000-square-foot penthouse with a private pool overlooking Tampa Bay. The 18th floor will be a dedicated amenity deck with private massage rooms, a his/her sauna, steam rooms, a fitness studio and an entertainment club for kids and teens. The 20,000-square-foot pool deck will have several pools and spas, including an infinity pool that wraps around the perimeter of the building. Residents will have access to a 46th-floor sky lounge complete with a sunset bar and outdoor terrace space. The lower floors will have 73,000 square feet of office space, a parking garage and about 10,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor. A narrow podium will separate the amenity deck and residences from the lower floors, creating the illusion that the top part of the building is floating in mid air. Condo residents will have access to an infinity pool that wraps around the perimeter of the building. [ Courtesy of St. Petersburg City Council ]Located at 100 2nd Ave. S, the tower will replace the parking garage for the City Center office building. Due to its proximity to Albert Whitted Airport, the developers had to receive approval from the Federal Aviation Administration. Maloney said the timeline for construction depends on how quickly the building sells. But ideally, “I’d like to be in the ground by fall,” he said. Rebecca Liebson is a reporter covering real estate and housing. She can be reached at rliebson@tampabay.com. has announced that owner Jeffry Knight is “stepping down” and is no longer affiliated with the company The 37-foot boat Knight was operating Sunday night in Clearwater Harbor struck the slow-moving Clearwater Ferry killing one passenger and injuring eight others Jeff Knight is stepping down from his position at Jannus Live and will no longer have any affiliation with the venue.” It went on to say that the decision was made “out of respect for the victims of the recent Clearwater Ferry tragedy.” has been the registered owner of Jannus Live since 2010 Knight is also the owner of Knight Enterprises The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission home surveillance or cell phones in the vicinity of the Municipal Causeway MORE ON THE STORY: Victim, boat operator’s names released in fatal Clearwater accident MORE ON THE STORY: More questions than answers in deadly ferry collision How is Knight “stepping down” showing respect for the family you can see that Knight Global Entertainment 2025 with the Secretary of State of Florida and lists their mailing address as 200 1st Ave North Suite 206 Jeffery Knight signs the document as “owner” You can’t buy your way out of culpability Wow 😦😳 they’re going to sue the pants off of him..he better lawyer up. cause they’re coming for his money 🤑💰!! Culture and leisure Industry Science and engineering Trade and Services Physical activity "�� �� ����� ������". ���������� ����������� ���������� � ��������� �������� � �����15.04.2025 19:32:23 ������ ���������������� ����� � ������� � ���������06.10.2024 21:37:56 the Red Sox sent right-handed pitcher Quinn Priester to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for minor league outfielder Yophery Rodriguez a Competitive Balance Round A pick in the 2025 draft who failed to make the Red Sox's rotation out of spring training And it's looked even better with the context of Rodriguez's hot start at High-A Greenville the trade is finalized with the player to be named later and the Red Sox have to be excited about the potential he brings The Red Sox announced on X (formerly Twitter) that they had acquired right-handed pitching prospect John Holobetz the Brewers' 2024 fifth-round pick out of Old Dominion University had been pitching for the Brewers' Low-A affiliate and is expected to report to Low-A Salem for the Red Sox He compiled a 3.00 ERA in 24 1/3 innings so fra this season It's not entirely clear whether Holobetz will be a reliever or a starter long-term He came out of the bullpen in college and had three starts and two multi-inning relief appearances during his brief tenure with Carolina this spring Holobetz was not included in MLB Pipeline's most recent Top 30 Brewers prospect rankings has had three rough outings for the Brewers after two strong ones to start his Milwaukee tenure He owns a 5.79 ERA with 16 walks and 17 strikeouts in 23 1/3 innings pitched in a Brewers uniform This trade could have been a win for Boston even if Holobetz wasn't included but if the young righty winds up becoming a piece for the big-league club it's a deal that could be remembered fondly for many years to come More MLB: Mookie Betts, Chris Sale Make Red Sox Admission That Will Leave Fans Longing For 2018 The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit If you or someone you know has a gambling problem crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — St. Petersburg City Council members are set to take a closer look at a survey that revealed there may be graves on the site of Tropicana Field. Unmarked graves have been found throughout the years but a recent ground-penetrating survey shows there may be ten more graves beneath the Trop This survey is bringing the issue back to the forefront of people's minds Pete leaders set to discuss graves found under Tropicana Field site “I have a great-great-grandfather who may or may not be buried underneath the parking lot at Tropicana Field it means having answers to questions that have existed in my family for decades,” Givens Jr Pete who may have descendants buried beneath the Trop and that he is committed to doing the right thing with this site moving forward and other city council members will review this survey closely and discuss the next steps The ground-penetrating radar survey was conducted on what used to be known as Oakland Cemetery which was established in 1905 and subsequently condemned in 1926 but it is surrounded by other cemeteries that were predominantly African American Antionette Jackson from the Black Cemetery Network is also weighing in on the report She said she hopes the city can acknowledge the lives and history that exist under the Trop I want the city to take responsibility and work with the descendant communities work with redevelopment efforts to make sure going forward this is acknowledged,” Dr who plans to restore the Euclid Methodist Church | photo provided Religious sermons and wedding bells may once again echo through the sanctuary of a 100-year-old historic brick church at the edge of St owners Noam and Irene Krasniansky are determined to breathe new life into the deteriorating building Petersburg Register of Historic Places in 2004 The couple purchased the church in 2023 for $1.1 million using profits from the sale of their Los Angeles home. Their original vision was ambitious: transform the church into a 180-person event venue with a seven-unit bed and breakfast called The Treehouse The exterior of the church today | Photo provided However, after lengthy discussions with concerned neighbors over parking and noise, and a subsequent rejection of their adaptive reuse request by the St. Pete City Council in February the Krasnianskys are now embracing a new plan—one that honors the building's original purpose “The neighbors opposed the event hall plans and the community wants to see it restored as a church,” the couple told St “This is the only path forward to save the building We’re not asking for permission to change anything—we’re returning it to its original use several local Christian ministers and pastors have reached out and the Krasnianskys plan to meet with them the couple emphasizes that they want to welcome people of all faiths to the new religious santuary Owner Noam Krasniansky providing a tour of the church with st “Rooted in the idea that all paths to the Divine are valid We’re also thinking of keeping the sanctuary open for quiet reflection While churches across the country are in decline the church will host religious gatherings on select days along with weddings and other private events accommodating hundreds of guests The existing kitchen will be used by local chefs for pop-up dinners the couple has secured over 100 off-site parking spaces through letters of intent from nearby businesses They also have a partnership with Star Trolley a private transit service that will shuttle guests between parking locations and nearby hotels the Krasnianskys are in the process of establishing the sanctuary as a nonprofit This status would allow them to apply for federal grants to help cover renovation costs and legally host events inside and outside the church which the couple said will be safe to house future guests | St the couple plans to hold farmers’ markets featuring over 25 local vendors to help raise funds for restoration efforts “We’re just doing small repairs for now,” Noam said “Our goal is to raise enough funds to fix the steeple The sanctuary itself will be safe for guests.” The first farmers’ market is scheduled for May 4th Follow The Treehouse on Instagram to stay updated on the couple’s inspiring journey to restore this beloved community landmark ShareSaveCommentLifestyleForbesLifeSouth Florida’s Real Estate Center Of Gravity Is Finally Moving WestByPeter Lane Taylor Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights 01:26pm EDTShareSaveComment@font-face{font-family: "Schnyder"; src: url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/schnyders/schnyders-bold-webfont.woff2") format("woff2") url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/schnyders/schnyders/schnyders-bold-webfont.woff") format("woff"); font-weight: 700; font-style: normal;} @font-face{font-family: "Merriweather"; src: 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url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/merriweather/merriweather-regular-webfont.woff") format("woff"); font-weight: 400; font-style: normal;} @font-face{font-family: "Graphik"; src: url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/graphik/graphik-regular.woff2") format("woff2") #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .color-accent{color: #000000;} #article-stream-0 .headline-embed.bg-accent #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .bg-accent{background-color: #000000;} #article-stream-0 .headline-embed.color-base #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .color-base{color: #FFFFFF;} #article-stream-0 .headline-embed.bg-base #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .bg-base{background-color: #FFFFFF;} #article-stream-0 .headline-embed.font-base #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .font-base{} #article-stream-0 .headline-embed.font-size #article-stream-0 .headline-embed .font-size{font-size: 54px;} #article-stream-0 .quote-embed.color-accent #article-stream-0 .quote-embed .color-accent{color: #FFFFFF;} #article-stream-0 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.subhead-embed.font-size #article-stream-0 .subhead-embed .font-size{font-size: 26px;} #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed.color-body #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed .color-body{color: #333333;} #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed.color-body-border{border-top-color: rgba(51,51,51 #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed .color-body-border{border-top-color: rgba(51,51,51 0.8);} .bg-body{background-color: #333333;} #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed.font-accent #article-stream-0 .subhead3-embed .font-accent{font-family: Graphik,Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;}By dollar value it’s been a big month for Florida luxury real estate a 15-acre Naples waterfront estate sold for a whopping $225 million dwarfing the $173 million Oracle’s Larry Ellison paid for his Manalapan estate south of Palm Beach in 2022 Activist investor David Hoffmann also just closed on a separate Naples estate for $85 million last week Across the Everglades on the other side of the state high eight-figure deals are closing at an equivalent clip including a La Gorce Island estate in Miami Beach which recently settled for $75 million sixteen homes priced at $40 million-plus have sold in Florida in the past six months The development is the fourth Waldorf Astoria Residences in the U.S The islands between downtown Miami and Miami Beach on Biscayne Bay feature some of the most expensive waterfront estates in America These are outsized numbers in short order even by Florida’s recent standards particularly with the stock market whipsawing the full measure of President Trump’s tariffs still unknown and the risk of a wider economic downturn looking more plausible by the day the asymmetry between the two ends of the housing market is widening further On the mid to lower six-figure pitch where most Americans play the majority of buyers are still spooked by punitive interest rates and sellers no longer have the stronger hand The other end of the housing market is showing more verve and braggadocio: before COVID multi-million dollar properties could sit for years they are still trading briskly while largely resisting the headwinds depressing the rest of the industry Affluent real estate markets with limited inventory like Aspen have experienced a noticeable increase in sales activity since the pandemic The growing asymmetry signals a hardening of a second trend originally triggered by the pandemic wealthy buyers who can close all-cash deals are continuing to seek safe harbor in hard assets with limited supply: ergo ultra-luxury real estate in NIMBY-enclaves where tight geography and even tighter zoning regulations keep inventory scarce and prices elevated The S&P 500’s 77% bump since COVID also has roughly doubled the world’s eight and nine figure multi-millionaires the overall demand for high-end residences in rarified communities with small airports and long runways looks to remain frothy for the foreseeable future The third trend borne out of the past month’s lather is geographic If anything were poised to suck the oxygen out of Florida’s luxury real estate boom since the pandemic the state’s financial center of gravity is finally Billionaire's Row: The Central Park (l) and Steinway Towers (r) at sunset along 57th St “the world's skinniest skyscraper”) which ranks as the second tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere the project signifies an ever-deeper push into the luxury branded residence space and its biggest bet yet that the hyper-posh starchitect-designed high rise formula the company has mastered in Miami is just getting started on the other side of the state Floor to ceiling windows frame endless Tampa Bay and Gulf views from every floor of the Waldorf Astoria Residences St Gourmet kitchens at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St many high net worth individuals are moving their money and Florida's real estate momentum to the state's Gulf Coast including cities like St Petersburg (pictured center) will transform the city's skyline and is anticipated to usher in a new wave of luxury development downtown so I don’t need to undress them further here A dining room rendering at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St That makes the prospect of a Waldorf Astoria tower in downtown St Petersburg an outlier on the trend line which portends a potentially significant shift in how the luxury branded residence game is played If Florida’s central Gulf Coast — traditionally a magnet for Midwestern retirees and spring break beach benders — is worthy of world-class architecture and a high-society brand like Waldorf Astoria who’s to say Raleigh-Durham and Colorado Springs aren’t next up-and-coming locations that simmered with possibility two decades ago might very well be tapped out today (think Fort Lauderdale) cities and commercial corridors currently deemed ‘second tier’ or not befitting a Fendi or comparably premium brand could be the next Nashville or Park Slope hiding in plain sight Florida is often ranked one of America's best places to live and retire due to its affordability Petersburg Beach and Clearwater Beach are two of the state's most stunning stretches of Gulf Coast Petersburg is definitely having its ‘moment’ — along with the rest of the greater Tampa Bay region for that matter The drivers behind the boom are the usual Florida suspects: warm weather and a blossoming entrepreneurial scene thanks to a widespread in-migration of talent during the pandemic Petersburg is also part of a longer-term demographic shift and Palm Beach counties on the state’s Atlantic Coast have finally begun to spill over and savvy investors and wealthy buyers now priced out of traditionally tony waterfront enclaves like Bal Harbor and SoFi (‘South of Fifth’) in Miami Beach are taking their money — and Florida’s center of affluence — westward “Florida’s Gulf coast is among the most under-valued real estate markets in the country,” Shear tells me “Especially compared with cities like Miami and West Palm Beach Pete is a hidden gem that’s been under the radar for a very long time and it’s just beginning to come into its own The city is also becoming a magnet for high net-worth individuals thanks to its vibrant cultural scene Th architecturally iconic Salvador Dali Museum houses the largest collection of work by the famed artist outside of Europe Tropicana Field in the foreground is the home of MLB's Tampa Bay Rays Petersburg Pier is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions Petersburg's most historic downtown neighborhoods CEO of Feldman Equities which is co-developing the Waldorf Astoria St we’ve witnessed the city’s incredible rise And the introduction of the Waldorf Astoria brand is testament to this extensive growth and the natural progression St We’re eager to deliver a branded residential development that meets the elevated caliber of living the city’s new residents desire and I can’t wait to see all of the opportunities and incredible experiences this project will contribute to the downtown area.” Petersburg will add a striking new silhouette to the city's waterfront skyline Beach Drive in downtown St Petersburg is one of the city's primary thoroughfares Feldman made me realize something else the Waldorf Astoria St Petersburg says about the current state of the branded residential real estate space: that it’s actually quite symbiotic Pete offers a rare opportunity: a lead position in an A-series funding round if Facebook were luxury real estate Pete gains global credibility virtually overnight thanks to Waldorf’s ‘legitimatizing’ effect on the city’s stature and prestige much the same way a James Beard Award-winning chef opening up a new restaurant in a neighborhood that’s revitalizing is usually a sure sign it’s “arrived” Petersburg is far from simply architectural or temporarily economic in terms of job creation and investment The original Waldorf hotel on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan hosted diplomats and distinguished foreign visitors and catered to the needs of New York’s socially prominent The Waldorf brand was also renowned for setting the original standards for luxury and indulgence in hospitality including becoming the first hotel in the world to offer electricity and private bathrooms in every room “A project of this scale and caliber with a globally revered 5-star brand like the Waldorf Astoria attached has a profound “It serves as a powerful signal that the city is not just on the rise but poised for its next chapter of growth and transformation Pete is a major luxury market that deserves to carry on the Waldorf legacy and this project will help the city gain global recognition and I’m confident that other 5-star brands will follow suit.” Petersburg captures the essence of the region's healthy Petersburg is one of many nationally and world-renowned arts and cultural institutions in the city Another powerful side effect of a high-profile branded residential real estate project coming to a city like St especially when an internationally recognized brand like Waldorf Astoria is involved Shear anticipates that at least 30% of his buyers will come from Europe and Latin America Pete part of the year and all of whom regard their purchases as a long-term financial investment (the other 70% will come from the Midwest and Northeast) “We’re all selling sunshine and low taxes in Florida,” Shear says “But along the West Coast in areas like Tampa and St driven by sustained demand from both domestic and international high net-worth individuals who view the current market conditions as an opportunity to invest in tangible U.S which has long been a cornerstone of long-term wealth building real estate offers the added benefit of personal enjoyment and use delivering value beyond just financial returns especially when you consider that you’re living in a 5-star hotel.” Petersburg will be the tallest building in the city once it's completed offering endless horizon views from every residence No luxury or amenity is spared at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St in keeping with the original legacy of the brand Custom made Italian vanities are one of many lavish fixtures and furnishings that are featured in the residences The high rise’s fully finished two- and three-bedroom residences will range from 2,031 square feet to 3,408 square feet and feature private foyers and expansive terraces with Tampa Bay views along with finishes and appliances befitting the Waldorf reputation for unparalleled décor and design The tower’s top two-stories will be combined into the penthouse residence that will encompass 10,000 square feet overall with a private pool resort-style pool deck will feature a 160-foot east pool with Bay views while the Amenity Suite on Level 18 offers a thoughtfully curated wellness center prioritizing holistic healing and connection with nature Spaces in the center will include private massage rooms as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center and movement studio residents will have exclusive access to the legendary Peacock Alley-inspired Sky Lounge a signature space that captures the legacy and sophistication of the Waldorf Astoria brand As for the next evolution in the luxury branded residence space Shear remains bullish on the niche market as well as the long-term drivers underpinning it “We never really know until we launch a new project but we feel strongly that there is real depth for branded real estate developments not just in cities like Miami “All indications are that there continues to be strong demand not only for seasoned well-capitalized developers who deliver on time but also for 5-star brands like Waldorf Astoria that offer buyers peace of mind and craftsmanship that are second to none.” Residences at the Waldorf Astoria Residences St