The 1929 photo features Miss America, Miss Sarasota, Miss St. Petersburg, Miss Clearwater, and pilots.
Image via TBAYtoday
If you somehow find yourself in my office — or on a Zoom call with me — you’ll spot a massive black and white photo on the wall of Miss America, Miss Clearwater, and other sashed-up ladies posed in front of an old aircraft.
It’s an old Burgert Brothers photo I picked up from the now-shuttered Skyway Marina Mall. S.P. Burgert and Son first opened a photographic studio in 1899 at 506 ½ Franklin St. in Tampa.
The family-owned operation — led by brothers Jean and Al Burgert — captured more than 80,000 shots of Tampa Bay life and lore over nearly a century, from the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane to the citrus industry.
You’ve likely spotted their work around town at the Tampa Bay History Center or your local editor’s home, but you can also browse thousands of digitized photos through USF or HPLC.
Asked
Asked
What category was the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane?
A. Category 2 B. Category 3 C. Category 4 D. Category 5
The Tampa Wheel Over Water is a go. Late last week, Tampa City Council approved plans to build a 250-ft observation tower in the Channel District. The $20 million project from local developer Tony Miller should open in late 2026. (Tampa Bay Times)
Announced
South Tampa’s Haven might be replaced by a new concept — eventually. Owner David Laxer — of Bern’s fame — filed an environmental resource exemption permit to build a smaller eatery called Obtuse Restaurant. Haven Hour isn’t going away yet as Laxer says “the permit referenced reflects early-stage, long-range planning work.” (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Real Estate
What’s next for the Tierra Verde Marina? Developers just shared a new $33 million transformation plan for the 40-year-old marina including: a new restaurant called Harbor House, a third-story bar, an outdoor pool, and retail space. Take a peek. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Development
Yes, we’re still following the Gas Plant District redevelopment saga. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch will accept new proposals for transforming the 86 acres in mid-November. Developers will have 30 days to submit their best stuff. (Axios Tampa Bay)
Eat
A ceviche and sushi bar? We’re so in. Aji Ceviche Bar is now slinging Peruvian cuisine in downtown St. Pete. What else is on the menu? Think Spanish octopus, tiraditos, tacu tacu, and cocktails. (I Love the Burg)
Open
Sun Drunk — the title of Editor Bailey’s forthcoming memoir — and a new St. Pete Beach boutique just opened its doors. Pick up beach essentials like sun hats, Turkish towels, and skincare essentials at the Corey Avenue shop. (I Love the Burg)
Mansion Monday
Deep greens and blues are the colors we choose, and this home’s deep green waterfront views will live on in our dreams. We could see James Taylor writing tunes from this 4-bed, 6-bath perch looking out at the Skyway Bridge.
Ranked
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is No. 13 on The New York Times’ list of the 25 best college football stadiums. It was lauded for its deafening crowds and “I Won’t Back Down” sing-a-long. Do you agree with the ranking? Let us know what you like (or hate) about the stadium by replying to this newsletter. (The New York Times)
Seasonal
Gather ‘round the campfire. As Halloween creeps closer, it’s the perfect time to read Florida’s creepiest urban legend. It’s the tale of the gravity-defying Spook Hill, a potentially haunted mound where cars are known to roll uphill. Don’t scare easily? Uncover the stories behind Tampa Bay’s most haunted buildings. (Business Insider)
Arts
Swifties are flocking to see Ophelia. Friedrich Heyser’s artistic depiction of Shakespeare’s tragic character is helping fill the halls of Germany’s Museum Wiesbaden thanks to Swift’s recent popular single, “The Fate of Ophelia.” See if you can spot her for yourself at one of TBAY’s world-class museums. (The Guardian)
Active
An 80-year-old recently became the oldest woman to cross the finish line at the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii. Natalie Grabow completed the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile cycle, and 26.2-mile run in just under 17 hours. Time to hit the gym. (NPR)
Eat
A new academic study shows signs that consuming warm liquids may have positive impacts on physical + mental health. Researchers found correlated improvements in sleep, gut health, depression, and anxiety. Now the colder months are approaching, that’s just more reason to grab a warm bowl of soup. (Food & Wine)
Sports
The Lightning look to spark offense against the rebuilding Blackhawks. Can Tampa Bay’s special teams prowess overcome their slow start? Get the lowdown from local experts of the Tampa Bay Lightning with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Live
City Guide
Mondays call for getting coffee out
Blind Tiger’s outpost in Tampa City Center is a convenient and quiet spot to start your commute. | Photo via @blindtigercoffeeroasters
For richer or pour over, Tampa Bay’s coffee shops are what keep us going in the morning.
If you’re having trouble deciding on a spot, gather some brews clues with our guide to some of the best coffee shops in Tampa Bay.
Roasts to boast
Bandit Coffee Co., 2662 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | Head to this trendy Central Avenue spot for a latte or plain old cup of their delicious staple blend. Pro tip: Bandit’s wintertime maple bourbon latte is the stuff of dreams.
Caffeine Roasters, multiple locations | Whether you want a plain Italian roast or a cafe con leche, this local joint’s roasts can’t be beat. Plus, the brand prides itself on promoting women leaders in the coffee industry.
Sun Bear Specialty Coffee Roasters, 1037 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | Tucked inside Sans Market, this coffee popup offers standout coffees, pour overs, espresso drinks, and pastries. Plus, you can pick up home essentials on the way out.
A set of hydrating, plumping lip oils perfect for winter — and a fuller pout. Read The Buy Editor Sarah’s full review of tarte’s Maracuja Juicy Plumping Lip Oil Set and why she’ll be wearing them all season long (hint: it’s to heal chapped lips).
Bonus: Use code WELCOME2025 to save $15 on your first HSN order of $35+ and snag the lip set for yourself.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Did you know TBAYtoday has dozens of sister newsletters across the US? Each one delivers local news, restaurant picks, and hidden gems just like we do.
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