Florida's Tough New Laws, Flood Protection Innovation, and Upscale Dining on the Horizon in St. Petersburg ⚖️🌊🍽️

St. Petersburg's Tough New Law, Flood Barriers, and Michelin-Starred Chef! 🚨🌊🌟

St Petersburg Florida | In Depth City Tour


September Edition

Greetings!

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy October 01, 2025! 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

Florida's Trenton's Law: Tougher Penalties for Repeat Drunk Drivers and Boaters
Innovative Flood Barrier Company Provides Peace of Mind for Flood-Prone Areas
St. Petersburg City Council Approves Fiscal Year Budget with No Property Tax Increases, Focuses on Essential Services and Community Investments

Get Out & Go!

Buckcherry live at Jannus Live
THEVILLE DEVILLE Tour: St.
Oktoberfest Pinellas

Business Buzz

Geoffrey Zakarian to Elevate St. Petersburg Dining Scene with New Upscale American Restaurant in 2025.
First Florida Integrity Bank Announces Focus on Small Business Loans, Particularly Supporting Minority-Owned Businesses

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

Trivia Question❓

What iconic pink hotel sits on St. Pete Beach?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

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!

Florida's Trenton's Law: Tougher Penalties for Repeat Drunk Drivers and Boaters
Innovative Flood Barrier Company Provides Peace of Mind for Flood-Prone Areas
St. Petersburg City Council Approves Fiscal Year Budget with No Property Tax Increases, Focuses on Essential Services and Community Investments

📰 St Pete – News Highlights

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

🏗 Urban Development & Business

Celebrity chef **Geoffrey Zakarian** will open a new restaurant at the **EDGE District’s Central development**, adding to St.

Pete’s growing culinary scene.

Also, a **$120 million, 12-story luxury condominium tower** has been announced in Marina Bay, taking the last waterfront parcel in the community.

(stpeterising.com, tbbwmag.com)

🚨 Crime & Public Safety

A St.

Pete man died after being struck while crossing **US-19 at Ulmerton Road**, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Meanwhile, **prosecutors declined to pursue charges** against two pastors arrested during a protest over the removal of a “Black History Matters” mural, though civil fines remain.

(fox13news.com, axios.com)

🌊 Resilience & Infrastructure

St.

Petersburg launched its **Agile Resilience Program**, focused on storm protection upgrades such as pump improvements, seawall reinforcements, and elevated electrical systems.

The city also introduced **new high-water rescue vehicles** capable of driving through four feet of floodwater, costing $300,000 each.

(wusf.org, baynews9.com)

Also happening...

Florida's Trenton's Law: Tougher Penalties for Repeat Drunk Drivers and Boaters.

"Florida introduces Trenton's Law to crack down on repeat drunk drivers and boaters by increasing penalties and implementing stricter regulations.

The law is named after a young boy who was killed by a repeat drunk driver while riding in a boat.

Under Trenton's Law, intoxicated individuals operating a vehicle or vessel will face harsher consequences, including longer jail time, increased fines, and mandatory substance abuse treatment.

The goal of the law is to prevent tragic incidents like the one that took Trenton's life."

After being flooded out by Hurricane Helene, a group of friends decided to create a company that specializes in flood barriers.

They developed a unique barrier that can be easily deployed and stored, providing protection against rising water levels.

The company aims to help others facing similar challenges and has already received positive feedback from customers.

Through their innovative solution, they hope to prevent future flood damage and provide peace of mind to those in flood-prone areas.

St. Petersburg City Council Approves Fiscal Year Budget with No Property Tax Increases, Focuses on Essential Services and Community Investments.

The St.

Petersburg City Council has approved the city's fiscal year budget, which includes no property tax increases.

The $337.6 million budget aims to maintain essential services and supports public safety, affordable housing, and economic development initiatives.

Mayor Rick Kriseman praised the budget for addressing community needs and investing in workforce development programs.

The budget also includes funding for climate resiliency efforts and infrastructure improvements.

Today's Weather Outlook

🌤️ St. Petersburg Mid-Week Forecast (Oct 1 – Oct 3, 2025)

Looking ahead to the coming days in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Here’s your forecast snapshot:

Wednesday, October 1, 2025: High: ~87 °F, Low: ~75 °F – Partly sunny with a chance of thunderstorms late in the afternoon.

Warm and humid.
Thursday, October 2, 2025: High: ~85 °F, Low: ~74 °F – Breezy with sun and clouds, scattered afternoon thunderstorms possible inland.
Friday, October 3, 2025: High: ~86 °F, Low: ~75 °F – Mostly cloudy and breezy with showers and possible thunderstorms, mainly later in the day.

Overall: Expect warm and humid conditions with increasing chances of showers or storms each afternoon and evening.

Mornings remain the best time for outdoor plans.

Stay weather-aware and keep some cover handy!

🌴

DIY Wednesday ✨

🔥 Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟

DIY Spice Rack | Home With Stefani

DIY Spice Rack

✨ DIY Spice Rack: Organize Your Kitchen with a Custom Build

Tired of rummaging through cluttered cabinets to find the right spice?

A custom-built spice rack is a simple DIY project that keeps your seasonings organized, accessible, and stylish.

With just a few tools and materials, you can create a rack that perfectly fits your kitchen space and your cooking style.

🛠 Materials & Tools

Wood boards (pine, reclaimed, or plywood)
Screws or nails
Wood glue
Sandpaper or sander
Paint, stain, or sealant (optional)
Drill or hammer, measuring tape, saw, and level

📋 Step-by-Step Instructions

Measure your space: Decide if your rack will hang on the wall, fit inside a cabinet, or stand on the counter.
Cut the wood: Cut boards to size for the sides, back, and shelves of the rack.
Sand the edges: Smooth all pieces with sandpaper to avoid splinters and ensure a clean finish.
Assemble the frame: Attach the sides to the backboard using screws or nails, reinforced with wood glue.
Add shelves: Space shelves evenly and secure them to the frame, making sure they are level.
Finish the rack: Paint, stain, or seal the wood to match your kitchen décor and protect it from moisture.
Mount or place: Use wall anchors or sturdy brackets if mounting, or set it securely on a countertop.
Organize: Place spices in labeled jars and arrange them by size, type, or cooking frequency.

🌟 Tip: Use uniform jars with clear labels for a sleek, modern look—or mix vintage jars for a cozy rustic vibe.

With this DIY spice rack, you’ll save counter space, make cooking easier, and add a handmade touch of personality to your kitchen.

🪚✨

🌳GET OUT & GO

Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨

Buckcherry live at Jannus Live
THEVILLE DEVILLE Tour: St.
Oktoberfest Pinellas

🎉 St Petersburg Events

Wednesday – Friday • October 1-3, 2025

📅 Wednesday • Oct 1

• Buckcherry live at Jannus Live (Hard rock / concert)
(Concertful – St Petersburg listings)

📅 Thursday • Oct 2

• THEVILLE DEVILLE Tour: St.

Pete — 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM
📍 The Neon Lunchbox, 1756 Central Ave
(Eventbrite)

📅 Friday • Oct 3

• Oktoberfest Pinellas — 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
📍 German-American Society, St.

Petersburg
(Visit St.

Pete-Clearwater)

• Nashville Pussy (Rock concert) — likely at Jannus Live
(Shazam Events – Rock listings)

🌴 These are tentative or plausibly scheduled events drawn from concert listings, event aggregators, and local venue calendars.

Confirm with event hosts or ticket sources before attending.

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!

Geoffrey Zakarian to Elevate St. Petersburg Dining Scene with New Upscale American Restaurant in 2025.
First Florida Integrity Bank Announces Focus on Small Business Loans, Particularly Supporting Minority-Owned Businesses

Geoffrey Zakarian to Elevate St. Petersburg Dining Scene with New Upscale American Restaurant in 2025.

Celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian is set to open a new restaurant in St.

Petersburg's The Central development in 2025.

The upscale establishment will focus on American cuisine and feature a luxurious ambiance.

Zakarian aims to elevate the city's dining scene with his culinary expertise and sophisticated dining experience.

The restaurant is expected to attract locals and visitors seeking high-quality food and impeccable service in a prime location.

A St.

Petersburg bank, First Florida Integrity Bank, is focusing on providing small business loans, with plans to expand their services to help small businesses in the area.

They plan to offer loans ranging from $50,000 to $1 million, with a particular emphasis on supporting minority-owned businesses.

The bank aims to help entrepreneurs thrive and grow their businesses by providing them with the financial resources they need.

Green Living Tip✔️

Planting for Pollinators

🌼 Planting for Pollinators

Creating a haven for bees and butterflies in your Florida garden

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are vital for healthy gardens and ecosystems.

In Florida, you can create a welcoming environment by planting nectar-rich flowers, providing shelter, and reducing pesticide use.

A pollinator-friendly garden not only supports wildlife but also boosts the productivity and beauty of your outdoor space.

🌺 Choose Native Plants

Opt for Florida-native wildflowers like blanketflower, coreopsis, and milkweed.
Plant a mix of species that bloom at different times to provide food year-round.
Avoid invasive plants that may crowd out native species.

🐝 Support Bees

Provide clusters of flowering plants for easy access to nectar and pollen.
Leave small patches of bare soil for ground-nesting bees.
Include flowering herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano in your garden beds.

🦋 Attract Butterflies

Plant host plants like milkweed for monarchs and passion vine for gulf fritillaries.
Provide nectar sources such as pentas, lantana, and salvia.
Place shallow water dishes with stones for butterflies to perch while drinking.

🌱 Garden Practices

Avoid pesticides—use organic alternatives or integrated pest management.
Plant in sunny areas, as pollinators are most active in the sun.
Provide shelter with shrubs, grasses, or small brush piles for resting spots.

Business Spotlight✨

🌟 Future St. Pete Bookstore – A Mystery in the Making!

This spotlight highlights an exciting upcoming addition to St. Petersburg’s local business scene. While details remain under wraps, anticipation is building for what could become a community favorite.

📚 Where Curiosity Meets Local Charm
Set to open soon in downtown St. Pete, this bookstore promises to offer a mix of literary treasures, cozy reading nooks, and a space for local events. The owner aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for readers of all ages.

💬 What the Community is Saying:
“Can’t wait to see what this new bookstore brings to downtown! St. Pete always thrives with unique, local businesses.”

🎉 Visit & Support:
Stay tuned for the grand opening announcement and be among the first to explore this mysterious new addition to St. Petersburg’s vibrant business community.

📍 Location: Downtown St. Petersburg, FL (exact address TBD)
📲 Website/Facebook: TBD

Thanks for supporting the businesses that make St. Petersburg strong!
#StPeteProud #SupportLocal #BusinessSpotlight #FutureStPeteBookstore

St. Petersburg Snapshot

🎉🐾 Dive into a weekend of fun at the September NADD Dog Dock Jumping Event with us at Courteous Canine, for an unforgettable splash-tastic experience for both you and your furry friend! 🐾🎉 Credits to Angelica Steinker.

Making it through the mid-week!

Keep your news tips, event submissions, and photos coming!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Tampa Bay borders the city to the east, connecting it to the Gulf of Mexico and making St. Pete a prime waterfront destination.

🌟 Help us grow by sharing this email with a neighbor, and if you have a news tip, simply hit reply! 📩

🌐 Stay connected by visiting our website at baybreezebulletin.com
📘 Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: facebook.com/baybreezebulletin
👥 Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/baybreezebulletin

See you tomorrow,

- Bay Breeze Bulletin Team