Unlocked: The Key to The Burg

UNLOCKED

THE KEY TO THE BURG

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

INTRO

In 1903, St. Petersburg incorporated as a city. The “founding fathers” if you will, John Constantine Williams & Peter Demens played a huge role in turning land once populated by just a few hundred people into the breathtaking city it is today.

St. Pete has always offered an abundance of opportunity. Whether vacationing for a weekend or making “the place people vacation” your home, this city has something for everyone, every time, every occasion.

The core of The Burg can be found in those who keep the community running. Some of the best kept secrets (which aren’t really secrets) are tucked away in plain sight. The key holders to St. Pete are the local businesses. They are the heartbeat of the community, the literal music in our streets. Their passion for this city and their love for their neighbors is the essence of what keeps our city alive and thriving.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

Hurricane 411

Hurricane season can hit hard in the Bay area. My mom used to say “plan for the worst and hope for the best” and much like my Mom, Mother Nature will get you good if you don’t take her warnings seriously! Whether you plan to hunker down at home or evacuate, it’s imperative that you know your next step. Mom also used to say “Better safe than sorry” and “Take your shoes off! I just mopped!”

Know Your Zone STAY INFORMED

The average elevation in St. Petersburg is 44ft. Visit https://kyz.pinellascounty.org/ or call 727-453-3150 to figure out what your zone is.

Sign up for Alert Pinellas to receive free messages in regards to storms, emergencies, and other community information. https://pinellas.gov/alert-pinellas/

Hurricane Preparation

Some of these will seem obvious or silly, but if you know what you have and where it is, it makes finding it when you wake up without power a LOT easier!

Stock up early and avoid panic buying!

Every family’s list will look a little different, but some staples include:

• Non-perishable food (7 days)

• Water (Drinking AND SEPARATELY water to refill toilet tanks or for light washing)

• Medications (7 days)

• Flashlights/lanterns

• ALL THE BATTERIES

• Baby wipes

• First aid kits

• Candles

• Matches

• Emergency crank radio

• Propane

• Charcoal

• Cell phone chargers

• Cards, board games, books, etc.

• Alcohol and mixers (it can get boring without power)

• Important Documents

• ID’s

• Passports

• Medical documents

• Updated health records

• Social Security Card

• Wills

• Birth certificates

• Home insurance policies

• Proof of residence

• Deeds

• Get your car ready

• Keep you gas tank full leading up to the storm

• Move vehicles into a garage or covered space

• If you don’t have a garage, St. Petersburg is full of parking garages!

• Prepare your home:

• Clear your yard

• Trim back dead tree branches

• Cover your windows & doors

• Fill sinks/tubs with water for washing

• Place sandbags in front of each entry into your home

• Secure or move outdoor furniture, decor, plants, etc inside (or toss into the pool let it hang out at the bottom)

Whether you dream of traveling the world in retirement or simply wish to maintain your current lifestyle, your income from Social Security alone may not be enough. A balanced retirement plan can help supplement your Social Security income and assist you in tackling unexpected expenses.

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Whether you dream of traveling the world in retirement or simply wish to maintain your current lifestyle, your income from Social Security alone may not be enough. A balanced retirement plan can help supplement your Social Security income and assist you in tackling unexpected expenses.

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Mom & Pop’s

We’ve all got to eat. The heart and soul of St. Petersburg can be found in some of the longest operating restaurants. Every Mom & Pop has a story to tell, which typically starts with the idea of the American dream and ends with “... 20+ years later and here we are!” The memories, the traditions, and the passion are what keep people coming back for more.

St Pete’s Legacy Eats:

• Harvey’s 4th St Grill

• El Cap

• Old Northeast Tavern

• Sunset Grille

• Dead Bob’s

• Kahuna’s

• Trips Diner

• Skyway Jack’s

• The Chattaway

• Mullets Fish Camp

• Kissin Cuzzins

• Beau & Mo’s

Harvey’s Story

If walls could talk, Harvey’s 4th Street Grill would have one heck of a story to tell. The restaurant first opened their doors on April Fool’s Day of 1984, and continues to be a St. Pete staple to this day. Currently, there are three generations of the Harvey family working daily at the restaurant. If you’re looking for live entertainment, good food and even better company you won’t want to miss their monthly Full Moon Celebration. The atmosphere is one of a kind and worth the memories you’ll take home. Join them for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch to be a real St. Pete native!

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

The Stuff You

While it’s true that there are plenty of fish in the sea, the same could be said about Tampa Bay and the multitude of waterways, rivers, lakes, and preserves through our city. If you love to fish, or are looking to explore a new hobby, there are a few KEYS to keep in mind:

• Whether you’re visiting or live here full time, you’ll need a fishing license.

• Anyone 16 and older must have a license to fish Visit www�myfwc�com/license

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

All Things Dogs

It’s a dog world and we’re just living in it! There aren’t many places dogs aren’t welcome and a surprising amount where they’re not just welcome, but encouraged. Always make sure to check for the “Dog Menu” at restaurants. We really do love our pups!

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOEY NEILL

Dog Parks

• Kenwood Dog Park

• Small Dogs Park at Vinoy Park

• Crescent Lake Dog Park

• St. Pete Beach Dog Park

• Fort DeSoto Dog Park/Beach

• Pass-A-Grille Dog Beach

• Mad Beach Dog Park

Dog friendly bars/ restaurants

• Dog Bar (Off-leash dog park, dog bar, AND human bar! Check their website before you head over for your first trip to make it a success. They are combining a dog park and a bar, there are some must-do’s to keep it safe and fun for everyone)

Dog Stores

• Ferg’s Sports Bar (Off-leash areas separate from the human area. Check out their dog menu, too!)

• PAW

• The Big Catch

• Three Birds Tavern

• Grand Central Brewhouse

• Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro

• Bark Life Market

• Love My Dog

• St. PetersBARK

• Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

Parks & Rec

While most know Florida as the “Sunshine State”, you may not be aware that St. Petersburg is the “Sunshine City”. On average Florida sees 230 days of sunshine and St Pete blows that out of the water with an average of 361! The opportunities to soak up some Vitamin D are practically endless.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SWAN DIGITAL MEDIA

• Pinellas Trail

• Walking and biking trail extending from Tierra Verde to Tarpon Springsover 40 miles!

• City & State Parks

• Nature trails

• Playgrounds

• Canoe/kayak/paddle board rentals

• Nature tours

• Special Events

• Disc golf courses

• Bike trails

• Scenic views

• Golf courses (public)

• Mangrove Bay

• Cypress Links

• Twin Brooks

• & many more private courses

• Make sure to check out Par Bar for some unique putt putt!

• John’s Pass

• Where the locals go when they want to be tourists in their town

• Restaurants, bars, pubs

• Arcades, ice cream shops, henna tattoos

• Shopping from beach wear to high fashion to hand-crafted soaps and hand-rolled cigars. Try the fruit wine (free samples while you browse)!

• Fishing

• Beach parking and easy access

• Boat tours (dolphin, sightseeing, Pirate Excursion, etc.)

• Rentals

• Parasailing

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

Keepin’ it Local

From the famous words of Bill Withers, “You just call on me brother when you need a hand, we all need somebody to lean on.” St. Petersburg is filled with reliable local businesses. If you need a hand, someone on this list can help; if they can’t, they know someone who can.

For The Home

Tree Service: Royal Tree & Lawn Services

727-851-7969

Moving Company: Rock’s Moving Company

727-579-0214

Painting: Egan Painting

727-403-5675

Pest Control: Geiger Pest Control

727-323-9595

Pressure Washing: Surface Medic Pressure Washing

813-385-1253

Electrician: Mr. Electric

Doug Pavlick

727-275-0505

doug@mrelectriclutz.com

HVAC: B&B Professional Plumbing & Air

www.BBproair.com

727-559-7991

Pool Services: Splish Splash Pool Company

727-815-6100

House Cleaner: Cecelia Oaredes

727-277-8310

Roofing: GC & Roofing

813-281-0223

aslywka@pcmiteam.com

www.pciteam.com

Lawn Care: Antonio Crawford Lawn Service

727-776-2907

Plumber: Tony Lancaster

727-520-5602

Mortgage: VanDyk Mortgage

Sean Moore

727-455-4768

Insurance: Insurance Resources (Property & Casualty)

6620 1st Ave S, 33707

727-345-0242

Health Insurance: Healthmarkets Insurance Agency

Beau Titsworth

440-610-7682

btitsworth@healthmarkets.com

Services:

Photographer: Swan Digital Media

352-835-2694

Shoe Repair: Holmes Shoe Repair

727-898-7930

Tattooing: Illustrative & Paramedical Legend Ink 140 1st Ave N, 33701 727-317-7989

Scrubs & Medical Supplies: Scrubs N Duds 9300 4th St N, St. Petersburg, 33702

Auto Mechanics: Miles Automotive 2736 9th Ave N, 33713 727-323-0180

Carnovale Car Care 51 Pasadena Ave S, 33707 727-347-7676

Car Detailing: Tropical Auto Spa Sammy HInes

813-679-3212

*By appointment only

Boat Detailing: Darcy’s Boat Detailing LLC

727-766-5742

Dry Cleaner: Seaside Drycleaners 7400 4th St N, 33702

727-525-7400

Tailor: Tony’s Tailor Shop 8844 4th St N, 33702

727-767-0428

Hair Salon/Barbers: Salon Society 215 2nd Ave N, 33701 727-453-0619

Billy’s Corner Barbershop 2031 4th St. N #12, 33704

727-512-5305

Event Planner: Coastal Dreams Sleepovers & Events LLC

Gretchen Miraglia

614-506-5513

Party Rentals: Da Bouncebros 321-504-1623

Pets: Groomer: Dog Crafters 3330 Dr. MLK Jr St N, 33704 727-440-7830

Pet Care: Premium Pet Care 727-644-0851

We’re a community with so many things to do, places to see, and effective ways to get around. In our backyard we have the Major League Sports Team, Music Festivals, Concerts, Art Installations, Professional Racing, and other major events. I’ve learned, life’s best lived when you’re making memories, not hearing about them.

Off the Beaten Path THINGS TO SEE

• Sunken Gardens

• Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center

• This is a permanent collection featuring over 15 pieces from the incredibly talented Dale Chihuly.

• Gizella Kopsick Arboretum

THINGS TO DO

• First Friday at Bogdanov Self described orchestrators of wonder, the Bogdanov’s throw a monthly FIrst \ Friday celebration of human greatness! There are temporary tattoos, live music, drinks & more!

• Take a drive over Thrill Hill

• Catch a show at Jannus Live

• Vibe to a festival at Vinoy Park

• Spend the weekend at the Hollander Hotel, complete with brunch and pool parties

• Laugh until your cheeks hurt at Spitfire Comedy House

• Join the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

Established in 1924, this is the world’s largest shuffleboard club!

• Visit Gallaghers Pumpkins & Christmas Trees; follow them on social media for updates on when they will be opening for the season.

• Visit Anchor Skate Supply & sign your littles (or yourself) for the skate camps throughout the year

• Take a stroll along Coffee Pot Bayou

Out of the ordinary ways to get around

• Sunrunner

• Ride from Downtown St. Pete all the way to the beaches! For FREE!

• Cross Bay Ferry

• From St. Petersburg to Tampa

• Wednesday & Thursdays, starting at 4:45pm

• Friday-Sunday, starting at 10am

• Trolley’s

FESTIVALS

• Seasonal Festivals:

• St. Raphael’s

• St. Paul’s

• Sacred Heart

• Central Avenue Trolley runs from the Pier to Pass-A-Grille

• Downtown Looper gets you anywhere you want to go downtown.

• Rideshare Scooters

• They are EVERYWHERE. Download the app & start riding

• Holy Family

• St. Stefano’s Super Greek Fest

• Shine Mural Festival

• Gulfport, Gecko Fest

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Kindness radiates through the city like the sunshine. There are so many opportunities to make a difference in the community. We don’t know a wrong way to help; charity festivals & fun runs, hands-on volunteering, fundraisers, auctions, St. Pete is filled with non-profits and big hearts making a difference every single day.

Please take a moment to learn more about two that speak the loudest to me.

no kid 86’d

No Kid 86’d was founded by Fo’Cheezy Twisted Meltz owner, Robert Hesse. With an admittedly wild past, Chef Robert leads by example when it comes to being the only one who can determine your impact. No Kid 86’d is a non-profit he designed as a message of love to at-risk youth in the Tampa Bay Area. He wants to make sure there isn’t a single kid in the Bay Area that doesn’t feel “seen”. The organization is unique in the sense that Hesse doesn’t raise money to donate it to a cause; he creates his own cause. 2% of his earnings from his three Fo’Cheezy restaurants (two brick and mortar, and a roaming food truck) are donated to the charity to help fund job opportunities, financial assistance to those in need, random acts of donations, and most importantly creating a safe space for kids to recognize their unique value. You can always catch Chef around one of his two restaurants, or rolling through The Burg on a truck that can’t be missed - make sure to stop in and spread the love! Follow them on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @focheezymeltz

THE KIND MOUSE

The Kind Mouse has been filling the tummies of children throughout Pinellas County since 2012. The organization was designed to help battle chronic hunger and food insecurities. Since Gina Wilkins’ idea was brought to life, there have been over 619,000 served. The Kind Mouse helps more than only those in transition; it also builds the next generation of volunteers. Those willing to donate their time are always needed, appreciated, and can even be as young as 5 years old! If you’d like more information on how to get involved, please visit www.thekindmouse.org

day trippin’

Let’s face it, sometimes we all need a change of scenery. Luckily for us, we’ve got options!

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANUELA HENDRICKSON

ACROSS the bridge

• Busch Gardens, Tampa

• The Florida Aquarium, Tampa

• Hillsborough River State Park, Zephyrhills-ish

• Dinosaur World, Plant City

North of St� Petersburg

• Honeymoon Island, Dunedin

• Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs

• Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee

• Rainbow River, Dunnellon

over the skyway

• The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

• The Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish

worth the drive

• Florida Air Museum, Lakeland

• Polk Theatre, Lakeland

• The Gypsy Gold Farm, Ocala

• The Corkscrew Winery, Ocala

• Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales

• Spook Hill, Lake Wales

About Kassidy

Born and raised in Central Valley, California, I once called Kingsburg home. I made the move to Florida’s Bay Area in June 2014. A short-term trip to what I initially thought was Russia (I’ll tell you in person sometime) turned into a long-term love affair with St. Petersburg.

Holding a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, concentrating in International Studies and Political Science from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg (Go Bulls!!), I have never felt drawn towards a traditional career path. After my son was born in 2019, I was sure that I needed to fi nd a career that allowed me to help make a difference in people’s lives and remain fully present in my son’s. Real Estate seemed the perfect vessel to both help people achieve a huge goal in their lives and balance an engaging life with my son, as a single mom.

The more I learned about Real Estate, the more my “why” became clear. My purpose as a Realtor is to be the first branch of your Banyan Tree, here in St. Petersburg. To learn as much as I can about the avenues of my profession, as well as my community, to provide the best network of people to fill your new space, new adventure with the warmth of home.

I made a promise to myself and my customers, past, current, and future that I would never stop growing. I am currently a certified Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE), and Military Relocation Professional (MRP).

This is not to say growth hasn’t come without struggle. The recipe for a good Realtor certainly includes humility in the face of failure and tenacity on the search for opportunity. It was clear that success not only in this profession, but in creating a full life would require embracing the idea of a “servant’s heart”. I take great pride in going above and beyond for everyone I’ve worked with, with the goal that whatever the transactional outcome is, you leave feeling like family.

I hope this guide acts as a Skeleton Key to St. Petersburg, unlocking all of the treasures our beautiful city holds. Fall in love with the sights, smells, sounds, and sunsets that make the Sunshine City so special. I am so glad that you came home.