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Daily editionWednesday, September 23rd, 2026

Good morning, St. Petersburg.

The 5AM St. Petersburg Team

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Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 23rd of September.

Community

  1. Biking and walking advocates in Tampa are gathering on Saturday for World Car Free Day while groups in St. Petersburg and Sarasota work to rebuild after Hurricane Helene and preserve historic neighborhoods.

    Meanwhile, a Tampa Bay History Center exhibit highlights Florida’s early film industry.

    WUSFRead more

Culture

  1. What A Glorious Feeling at freeFall Theatre blends romance, music, dancing, and Hollywood nostalgia in a re-imagining of the making of Singin’ in the Rain.

    The production runs through Oct. 4 at 6099 Central Ave., featuring talented cast members in lively tap routines + heartfelt moments.

    The Gabber NewspaperRead more

  2. Local musicians Nate Najar and Daniela Soledade (blending jazz and Brazilian music) formed the act Love and Bossa Nova during pandemic livestreams from their St. Petersburg balcony and plan to continue touring both locally and internationally.

    WUSFRead more

Environment

  1. On Saturday morning, a power failure at Clearwater's Marshall Street Water Reclamation Facility led to 35,686 gallons of sewage spilling near a manatee protection zone — an amount that could fill 3.5 tanker trucks.

    Local advocates urge the city to upgrade water treatment systems to keep the area safe.

    Creative Loafing Tampa BayRead more

  2. The Southwest Florida Water Management District extended its one-day outdoor watering rule through the spring on Tuesday due to below-average rainfall+low reservoir levels, so residents across affected counties must adhere to assigned watering days and limited hours.

    WUSFRead more

Government

  1. St. Petersburg has earmarked $11.6 million for affordable apartment projects in South St. Pete next fiscal year, but developers have requested over $35 million for 398 units.

    More applications are expected as part of the city’s Community Redevelopment Area plan.

    WUSFRead more

Sports

  1. The Rays clinched their fifth AL East title with a 6-1 win over the Yankees on Sept. 22 at Yankee Stadium.

    Drew Rasmussen's strong pitching helped secure home-field advantage for postseason play.

    WUSFRead more

  2. Rays outfielder Chandler Simpson has nearly 50 stolen bases and is chasing an AL batting title, making him a bright prospect as the postseason approaches.

    Local fans in St. Petersburg are watching eagerly as his unique performance may help the Rays push for a playoff spot.

    MLB.comRead more