Student achievement
Katherine Grace Repka of North Redington Beach received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington and Lee University at commencement ceremonies on May 28.
Repka majored in sociology and anthropology.
Gulf Beaches Library schedules events
MADEIRA BEACH — The Gulf Beaches Public Library has released its latest schedule of events and activities at the library, located at 200 Municipal Drive.
• Writers group: Mondays, 10 a.m.-noon
• Adult coloring book group: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-noon
• Mahjong: Thursdays, 11 a.m. Old and new members welcome
• Investment club: Thursdays, 2:30-4 p.m.
• Meditation: Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon. Relax and rejuvenate at the end of the week
• Scrabble: Fridays, 1-4 p.m.
• Storytime: Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. ages 2 and under; Fridays at 10:30 a.m. ages 2-4.
• A novel book club: New at the library, this book club focuses on fiction, from hidden gems to cult favorites. Meets every two weeks at 10 a.m.: Tuesday, July 14: The Jigsaw Man by Nadine Matheson; Tuesday, July 28: Calder Brand by Janet Dailey.
• Book lovers club: Tuesday, July 21, at 10:30 a.m. “Angelica: For Love and Country in a Time of Revolution” by Molly Beer.
• Adult summer reading: Read a book, tell the library staff about it, enter for a chance to win a $30 Barnes & Noble gift card.
• America250: Stop by the library during July to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation. Sign a copy of the Declaration of Independence and receive a free flag.
The library is currently taking gently used donations of books (no textbooks).
Ongoing tech help is available with library apps like Kanopy, Hoopla, and Libby.
Find the library on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and visit its website at gulfbeacheslibrary.org.
$5.3M grant to aid SPB with infrastructure
ST. PETE BEACH — Officials here have announced the town has been awarded $5.3 million in new state appropriations to support three critical community projects: the reconstruction of Fire Station 22, Pass-A-Grille wastewater maintenance improvements, and the Boca Ciega Drive reconstruction project.
The funding was included in the state’s $117.6 billion budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year, which was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis. `
“Projects of this magnitude require strong partnerships,” said City Manager Frances Robustelli. “We are incredibly thankful for the continued support of our state delegation and their commitment to helping St. Pete Beach address our many infrastructure needs. These appropriations demonstrate what can truly be accomplished when local and state leaders work together toward a shared goal.”
The new $1.5 million appropriation for Fire Station 22 brings the total amount of state funding secured for the project to $6.5 million. Total cost for the new fire station is estimated at $9.5 million. The reconstruction of Fire Station 22 has been a priority following the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused extensive damage and highlighted the need for a modern facility capable of supporting emergency response operations for decades to come.
The appropriations will also support critical wastewater system maintenance in Pass-A-Grille and the reconstruction of Boca Ciega Drive.
Hubbard’s Marina launches pirate-themed ghost tours
MADEIRA BEACH — Guests can join a newly-created guided walking tour every Friday and Saturday night at 9 p.m. for a one-hour exploration of the darker side of John’s Pass and the surrounding waterfront while uncovering centuries of maritime mysteries.
Guests will hear stories of notorious pirates, legendary shipwrecks, ghostly encounters, and local folklore that have shaped the Tampa Bay coastline. Whether rooted in documented history, passed down through generations, or whispered among locals, each tale is crafted to spark curiosity and imagination.
This tour combines the rich maritime heritage of John’s Pass with the thrill of paranormal storytelling,” said Capt. Dylan Hubbard. “Guests will discover fascinating pirate lore, mysterious shipwrecks, and eerie local legends while exploring one of Florida’s most historic waterfront destinations after dark.”
The Pirate Ghost Tour is designed to entertain a wide audience — from paranormal enthusiasts and history buffs to families with older teens, skeptics, and anyone looking for a unique night out. With a blend of storytelling, humor, history, and suspense, no two tours feel the same.
Cost is $24.99 a person. Reservations are recommended as tour sizes are limited. Get tickets at https://ghosttoursjohnspass.com/tours/
Treasure Island seeks input on redevelopment survey
Officials here are asking the town’s residents to take a survey that will help shape the community’s Commercial Redevelopment Master Plan.
The Commercial Redevelopment Master Plan will study five distinct commercial areas across Treasure Island, with a deeper financial analysis focused on a specific project in each area. The city invites all community members to help shape the plan.
The survey is open through July 12. It can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2s3b58jh
Sirata completes $25M renovation, reopens as Hilton
ST. PETE BEACH — Following a $25 million renovation, the Sirata Beach Resort has unveiled refreshed guest accommodations, enhanced dining venues, upgraded wellness facilities, and reimagined outdoor gathering spaces. The transformation marks a new chapter for the resort as it joins Tapestry Collection by Hilton, a portfolio of independent boutique hotels celebrated for their unique personalities and deep ties to the communities they call home.
All 228 guest rooms, including 80 suites — many offering beach or bay views — have been fully renovated. The transformation includes new furniture, fixtures, and furnishings, complemented by contemporary details and playful accents that enhance the resort’s relaxed beachfront character.
All the resort’s public spaces have been intentionally reimagined, extending the contemporary coastal design found throughout the guest rooms into inviting communal areas filled with natural light, open-air elements, and views of the Gulf. A palette of sandy neutrals accented by hues inspired by the sea and sunset creates a seamless connection between the resort’s interiors and its beachfront setting.
Brad Cochran, general manager, stated: “We are excited to share the renovated Sirata with both returning and new guests and are proud to be the newest member of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. From business travelers and multi-generational families to couples, solo travelers, groups of friends, and destination wedding guests, our beachfront setting, convenient location, and authentic hospitality continue to be among the many reasons guests choose to visit — and return again and again.”