Greetings!

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy January 23, 2026! We hope your day is going splendidly. Dive into this month's edition as we bring you exciting updates, and, of course, sprinkle some joy into your inbox! Don't forget to stay curious and inspired! ✨

In Today's Bay Breeze Bulletin

The Local Lowdown

• Olympic Gold Medalist Anne Donovan Inspires Local Students through Basketball Program
  
• St. Petersburg City Council Votes to Continue Tourism Funding for MLK Parade Despite Controversy
• Fostering Connection and Community through Third Places

Get Out & Go!

• Latin Beats in St Pete @ Thirsty First
  
• Pinellas TacoFest 2026
  
• Neighborhood Wellness Walk

Business Buzz

• Treasure Island Rejects Thunderbird Beach Resort's Proposal for New Five-Story Hotel
  

• Revitalization of St. Petersburg Waterfront with $148 Million Marina Project.

Stay connected for more updates this week — let’s work together to make it a great one for St Petersburg, Florida. 🌴

What annual festival celebrates local seafood in Saint Petersburg?

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by St Pete Zaarhub your go-to online directory for finding the best local businesses in your community. Find everything from restaurants and shops to services and more. Visit Zaarhub today!

The Local Lowdown

🌟 Uncover the Essence of Your Community: Stay updated with the latest happenings, hidden gems, and exciting events right in your neighborhood, making you feel more connected than ever!

• Olympic Gold Medalist Anne Donovan Inspires Local Students through Basketball Program
  
• St. Petersburg City Council Votes to Continue Tourism Funding for MLK Parade Despite Controversy
• Fostering Connection and Community through Third Places
  

Kara Lawson, celebrated head coach for Duke University and the U.S. Women’s National Team, energized students at New Heights Elementary School in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her inspiring ‘Handle Hard Better’ message.

New Heights, which recently achieved an ‘A’ rating under Principal Chris Boulanger, credits much of its rise from a ‘D’ grade to the resilient spirit Lawson champions.

During her visit, Lawson encouraged students to embrace challenges and believe in their own strength, reminding them that tough days are part of the journey to greatness.

Students responded enthusiastically, lining up for autographs and sharing heartfelt messages about the impact of her words.

Lawson, a WNBA champion, Olympic gold medalist, and the first woman to lead Duke’s basketball program, left the New Heights community uplifted and ready to take on new challenges through perseverance and mentorship.

St. Petersburg’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade will receive $65,000 in tourism funding, securing its future as new organizers step in.

The Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival, Inc. (TBCGF) was chosen by the city for a three-year, $690,000 contract after Advantage Village Academy declined to renew their tenure.

This year, TBCGF introduces “45 Days of Excellence,” a blend of the beloved MLK parade and their signature festival, estimated to bring in 15,000 visitors, boost hotel bookings by 1,200 nights, and contribute over $1 million to the local economy.

Craig Campbell of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater praised the expanded marketing push targeting major cities across the Southeast.

The parade, set for January 19, 2026, will feature performances by Tuskegee University and Alabama A&M University’s acclaimed marching bands, honoring Dr. King’s legacy with renewed energy and inclusivity.

The gentle hum of conversation and spontaneous laughter in places like cafés, parks, and taverns define what sociologist Ray Oldenburg calls “third places”—essential spaces where community truly comes alive.

In a rapidly growing St. Petersburg, the need for these communal venues has intensified.

Despite a wealth of events and networking opportunities, many residents still feel isolated, with studies showing a rise in loneliness.

Third places—from breweries to dog parks—help break down social barriers, nurture empathy, and create sincere belonging.

However, urban development and digital trends threaten their existence, risking deeper civic disconnection.

Initiatives like The Third Place LLC are stepping up to foster environments where genuine engagement flourishes through debates, pop-ups, and collaborations that highlight St. Petersburg’s vibrant gathering spots.

Prioritizing these venues is vital for a resilient, connected community.

Today's Weather Outlook 

WEEKEND REMINDER

🌟 Weekend Reminder: Keep Your Goals in Sight

As you head into the weekend, take a moment to reconnect with your goals — big or small. You don’t have to finish everything at once. Just focus on one meaningful step that moves you forward.

✔️ Reflect on what matters
✔️ Reset your energy
✔️ Refresh your mindset
✔️ Realign with your purpose

Small progress is still progress. Be proud of how far you’ve come, and stay committed to where you're headed. You’ve got this! 💛

🌳GET OUT  & GO

🌟 **Feeling a little restless?** *It's time to switch things up, explore new places, and add some excitement to your routine with unique adventures and experiences.* ✨

• Latin Beats in St Pete @ Thirsty First
  
• Pinellas TacoFest 2026
  
• Neighborhood Wellness Walk
  

Business Buzz!

We are thrilled to announce St Petersburg Florida's latest business addition! 🌟 Stay tuned for exciting updates on community initiatives and opportunities in the heart of Palm Coast!

• Treasure Island Rejects Thunderbird Beach Resort's Proposal for New Five-Story Hotel
  

• Revitalization of St. Petersburg Waterfront with $148 Million Marina Project.
  
  

The beloved Thunderbird Beach Resort in Treasure Island faces imminent demolition after sustaining major hurricane damage in 2024.

While details about its replacement remain unclear, the City Commission recently denied the owners’ request to raise building heights and expand room numbers, citing concerns about protecting the island’s character.

Residents warned that taller buildings could create a “wall” along the Gulf, blocking cherished views and eroding the area’s unique charm.

The city is now seeking a master planner to guide future developments and ensure cohesive growth.

Despite setbacks, new owners Avi and Gilad Ovaknin remain committed to revitalizing the property, promising to preserve the Thunderbird’s iconic neon sign and legacy.

The resort’s fate has become a central point in Treasure Island’s ongoing balance between honoring its history and planning for the future.

St. Petersburg is advancing a bold $148 million initiative to overhaul its Municipal Marina, targeting a complete transformation of the aging site into a premier waterfront location.

The city has opened the search for expert firms to redesign and rebuild the marina’s docks, facilities, and infrastructure, with construction projected to start in late 2026.

City Development Administrator James Corbett stressed that this revitalization will be city-led to guarantee quality and sustainability, prioritizing resilience over cost-cutting.

Plans now focus on a 100% floating dock system, crafted to resist saltwater and rising sea levels, after prior public-private partnerships were dropped due to ownership changes.

Upgrades will also address stormwater systems, roads, and seawalls near Demens Landing, aiming for long-term environmental strength.

When finished, the marina will offer modern amenities—new docks, bathhouses, administrative spaces, and more—enhancing both resident and visitor experiences on St. Petersburg’s vibrant waterfront.

Outdoor & Survival

🌿 Outdoor & Living Survival

Building a Survival Kit for Your Vehicle in Florida

Whether you're commuting across town or exploring Florida’s coastlines and backroads, keeping a well-stocked vehicle survival kit can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious emergency.

Florida’s heat, sudden storms, and occasional flooding mean your kit should focus on hydration, sun protection, and items that help you stay safe if you’re stranded.

• Water & Hydration: At least 2–4 liters of bottled water per person (rotate periodically).
  
  Include electrolyte packets for hot-weather emergencies.
• Food & Energy: Nonperishable, high-calorie snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit).
  
  Replace every 6–12 months as needed.
• First Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit with adhesive bandages, sterile gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, antihistamine, pain reliever, and any personal prescription meds.
• Shelter & Warmth: Emergency Mylar blanket(s), compact sleeping bag or lightweight blanket, and a waterproof tarp — useful during unexpected overnight waits or storm sheltering.
• Sun & Rain Protection: Broad-spectrum sunscreen, wide-brim hat or cap, sunglasses, and a lightweight rain poncho or packable rain jacket.
• Lighting & Power: Reliable flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, and a USB power bank for charging phones (keep it charged).
• Tools & Repair: Multi-tool, pocket knife, tire pressure gauge, portable air compressor or tire inflator, plug-and-seal tire repair kit, and duct tape.
• Recovery & Signaling: Tow strap/rope, jumper cables, reflective triangle/flares, high-visibility vest, and a whistle for signaling rescuers.
• Navigation & Communication: Paper maps of your area, a compass, and a car charger for your phone.
  
  Consider a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio.
• Vehicle Care: Small container of engine coolant/antifreeze, motor oil, spare fuses, and a basic set of tools (screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench).
• Comfort & Hygiene: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, extra socks, a change of lightweight clothing, and insect repellent (mosquitoes are common in Florida).
• Documents & Cash: Waterproof pouch with driver’s license, insurance card, vehicle registration, emergency contact list, and some cash (small bills).
• Special Considerations: If you travel with children, pets, or have medical needs, include appropriate supplies (child snacks, pet water bowl, meds, copies of prescriptions).

Tip: Store items in a sturdy, waterproof container and keep the kit secured in the trunk or cargo area.

Check your kit seasonally — replace expired food, batteries, and medications, and top off the power bank so it’s ready when you need it.

⚠️ Safety: In Florida, never drive through standing or flowing floodwater — six inches can stall a car and deeper water can sweep it away.

If stranded, stay with your vehicle whenever safe (it’s easier for rescuers to spot) unless staying put puts you at risk (rising water, fire, or hazardous surroundings).

Call emergency services when in doubt and avoid attempting roadside repairs in unsafe areas or at night without proper visibility and signaling.

Trivia Challenge!

"Congratulations to all who participated in this week's trivia! To enter our weekly drawing for a [local prize,
e.g., gift card to a local restaurant], email us your answers to all three trivia questions by January 23, 2026 at 8 PM."

The St. Pete Seafood & Music Festival blends delicious Gulf seafood with live entertainment.

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Enjoy the weekend,

- Bay Breeze Bulletin Team