Annual sand sculpture competition returns to Treasure Island

More than 300 tons of sand were hauled in for the event, which draws thousands of people and some of the most talented sand sculptors in the country.

How you can say goodbye to Winter the dolphin: CMA outlines memorial plan

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium says there will be several events, both public and private, for fans to say goodbye to Winter the dolphin, the inspiration behind ‘Dolphin Tale.’

Observant motorcycle salesmen help snag suspected identity thief

"He didn't care about interest rates. He didn't care about monthly payments. I'm like, ‘Something is not adding up,’" the Pinellas Park salesman recalled.

Boston bombing survivor with prosthetic leg shared special bond with Winter the dolphin

Stories are pouring in from around the world as people share their deep, personal connections to Winter the dolphin. Her death hits especially close to home for a survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing whose prosthetic leg was made by the same company that designed Winter's prosthetic fin.

Mockingbird faces new challengers as Florida state symbol

Florida has a range of state symbols, including the Florida panther, the manatee, the American alligator, and orange juice. But frustration over Florida's state bird is mounting as lawmakers propose ditching the mockingbird for something a little more representative of the Sunshine State's winged population.

'Her legacy will live on': Memorial being planned after Winter the dolphin dies

Winter the dolphin died in the arms of her caretakers at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The facility will be closed Friday to allow time for the "devastated" staff to grieve, but the aquarium's director says fans will get a chance to say goodbye, too.

Winter the dolphin: Bay Area, 'Dolphin Tale' stars react to death of famous Clearwater aquarium resident

Winter's death led to a strong and emotional reaction from those living in the Bay Area to around the world. “This one little dolphin changed the world. She touched millions & millions of lives."

Dad returns from 9-month deployment to surprise daughter at elementary school

Fifth-grader Cailani Martinez-Goins recently got the surprise of a lifetime during an assembly at McMullen Booth Elementary School when her father showed up after a nine-month deployment. 

Arson suspect left behind gas can with name on it, deputies say

A Palm Harbor man set fire to a pickup truck but was caught on video and left some key evidence at the scene, deputies say.

Winter the dolphin dies, leaving legacy of perseverance and inspiration

Winter the dolphin has passed away at the age of 16, after years of inspiring others who have prosthetic limbs like her. Clearwater Marine Aquarium officials say she'd been battling a gastrointestinal infection.

'Invisible wounds' continue to plague veterans

The number of veterans experiencing homelessness went up in 2020 after declining in recent years. One local Army veteran, who works to help homeless vets find their purpose, said there aren’t enough resources to rehabilitate people.

'Nothing we will not do': Dolphin experts brought to CMA to treat Winter

Dolphin experts from around the country have come to Clearwater to help treat Winter the dolphin, the star of the 2011 movie "Dolphin Tale." CMA says her condition is still critical as she battles a gastrointestinal infection.

Treasure Island captain enjoys sharing the 'magic’ of sailing

Captain Richie Mahoney with Suncoast Sailing in Treasure Island believes sailing is the most magical journey anyone can take on the water.

Morean Arts Center expands art therapy program to include clay pottery classes for veterans

The 'Art of Valor' program at Morean Arts Center in St. Pete gives an opportunity for veterans to meet others and have a creative outlet through glass-blowing, photography and making clay art.