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Feather Sound, Florida

Feather Sound is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. The population was 3,420 at the 2010 census. It includes the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport.

Geography
Feather Sound is located at 27.905°N, -82.67361°W (27.904972, -82.673552).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 9.3 sqkm, of which 7.8 sqkm is land and 1.5 sqkm (16.32%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,597 people, 1,909 households, and 943 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 329.9 /km2. There were 2,027 housing units at an average density of 185.9 /km2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 93.86% White, 2.09% African American, 0.11% Native American, 2.53% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.67% from other races, and 0.72% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.06% of the population.

There were 1,909 households, out of which 15.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.9% were married couples living together, 4.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 50.6% were non-families. 40.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.88 and the average family size was 2.54.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 13.5% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 41.6% from 25 to 44, 29.9% from 45 to 64, and 8.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $71,310, and the median income for a family was $92,181. Males had a median income of $55,167 versus $40,781 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $49,717. About 0.8% of families and 2.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 5.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Feather Sound, Florida


text:
Gandy, Florida

Gandy is an unincorporated community and former census-designated place (CDP) in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,031 at the 2000 census. It is named after George Gandy and the Gandy Bridge which connects the area to Tampa across Old Tampa Bay.

Geography
Gandy is located at 27.86889°N, -82.62472°W (27.868793, -82.624585).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 42.9 km2, of which 6.6 km2 is land and 36.3 km2 (84.65%) is water. It borders Weedon Island Preserve to the south and is the start of the Friendship Trail Bridge (old Gandy Bridge) linking Pinellas County and Hillsborough County.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,031 people, 1,264 households, and 479 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 307.5 /km2. There were 1,516 housing units at an average density of 229.5 /km2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 91.43% White, 2.86% African American, 0.44% Native American, 2.36% Asian, 0.10% Pacific Islander, 0.59% from other races, and 2.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.79% of the population.

There were 1,264 households, out of which 6.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 30.0% were married couples living together, 4.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 62.1% were non-families. 52.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.61 and the average family size was 2.26.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 6.7% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 29.9% from 25 to 44, 25.5% from 45 to 64, and 30.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 114.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $30,189, and the median income for a family was $39,417. Males had a median income of $31,364 versus $24,639 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $23,660. About 4.5% of families and 5.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 12.0% of those age 65 or over.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Gandy, Florida


text:
Gulfport, Florida

Gulfport is a city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States, bordering St. Petersburg, South Pasadena, and Boca Ciega Bay. The population of Gulfport was 11,783 at the 2020 census. Gulfport is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater metropolitan statistical area.

History
Archaeological digs around Boca Ciega Bay indicate that settlements existed in the area circa 3000 to 8000 BC. The area was also densely populated during the Safety Harbor period. In 1528, the Spanish explorer Pánfilo de Narváez landed on the Pinellas peninsula, some say near present-day Gulfport, where he encountered the local Timucuan people. Gulfport has been known by several names since its founding. The first settler in what would become Gulfport were James and Rebecca Barnett in 1868, and named the area Barnett's Bluff. As other settlers trickled in and homesteaded the area, the settlement became known as Bonifacio around 1880. In 1884, Philadelphia financier Hamilton Disston envisioned a thriving port town that he called Disston City. However, the United States Postal Service would not recognize the name as it conflicted with a town in Hillsborough County, and the name Bonifacio was retained. Once that community folded in 1890, the Post Office allowed Bonifacio to be renamed as Disston City. In 1905, the town name was changed to Veteran City to reflect John Chase's vision for a retirement community of Civil War veterans. On October 12, 1910, the name changed officially to Gulfport when it got incorporated at the Gulf Casino located on the dock of Electric Railroad Company.

On April 1, 1886, a man named W. J. McPherson, who had moved to Disston City from Deland the previous year, published The Sea Breeze, which was the first newspaper for the lower Pinellas Peninsula. With a population of about 150 people, Disston City was the largest settlement on the lower peninsula in the 1880s.

During the first two decades of the 20th century, there was a considerable leftist movement in Florida. This included Gulfport electing E. E. Wintersgill, a Socialist mayor, in 1910 and having four Socialists to one Democrat sitting on the town's council.

Gulfport was a sundown town into the 1950s. An informal policy prohibited African Americans from staying within town limits after sundown.

Geography
The city borders St. Petersburg, South Pasadena, and Boca Ciega Bay. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.8 sqmi, of which 2.8 sqmi is land and 1.0 sqmi (26.30%) is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 11,783 people, 6,425 households, and 3,004 families residing in the city.

In 2020, there were 1.87 persons per household and 87.7% lived in the same house as 1 year prior. The population per square mile was 4,255. There were 998 veterans in the city and 8.7% of the population were foreign born.

In 2020, the median value of owner-occupied housing units was $252,500. The median selected monthly owner costs with a mortgage was $1,564. The median selected monthly owner costs without a mortgage was $573. The median gross rent was $1,211. The median household income was $56,896 and the per capita income was $42,374. 12,9% of the population lived behold the poverty threshold.

In 2020, 96.6% of the households had a computer and 89.5% had a broadband internet subscription. 95.4% of the population over the age of 25 had a high school degree or higher. 42.5% of that same population had a Bachelor's degree or higher.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 12,029 people, 5,899 households, and 2,842 families residing in the city.

Media
GTV640 is the local Government-access television (GATV) cable TV channel for Gulfport. The signal was moved to channel 640 on February 9, 2015, on Bright House Networks. The municipal government broadcasts live meetings and replays on Brighthouse Cable Channel 640, as well as Live Streaming Video on the internet.

The channel includes city information, information relating to the city's events, a historical video of the city, city meetings, as well as additional programming.

Education
Public education is provided by Pinellas County Schools. Gulfport has two public schools, Boca Ciega High School and Gulfport Elementary School. The closest middle school to Gulfport is Thurgood Marshall Fundamental Middle School, located in St. Petersburg.

Gulfport Elementary was the first Montessori school in Pinellas County.

The Gulfport Public Library is located on Beach Boulevard, not far from the Gulfport Multi-Purpose Senior Center and the Catherine Hickman Theater. It is a member of the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative, which facilitates inter-library borrowing of materials in the county.

Stetson University College of Law, founded in 1900, is located in Gulfport (having moved there in 1954 from its original location in DeLand). Its tower is one of the better-known images to locals and has become an iconic part of the skyline.

St. Petersburg College, a state college, has multiple campuses in the county and is available for those who aspire to a college degree. In addition, the city of St. Petersburg has a campus of the University of South Florida.

Culture
The downtown area has several art galleries as well as the Catherine A. Hickman Theater, a small performing arts center. Gulfport also hosts street festivals throughout the year. Monthly highlights include Art Walk on the first Friday and IndieFaire on the third Saturday of each month. Yearly features include February's Get Rescued, benefiting local animal rescues, and September's GeckoFest, which consists of several events throughout the month including the Gecko PubCrawl, Gecko Ball, and of course, the election of the Gecko Queen. Many street performers, artists, and craftspeople show up to create a relaxed cultured atmosphere in the warm balmy breezes coming off the beach at the end of the street.

The Gulfport Community Players present several plays each year at the Hickman Theater. Also, the Catherine A. Hickman Theater of Gulfport is located on Beach Boulevard at 26th Avenue South and is a venue for live theatrical performances. The Gulfport Senior Center offers activities throughout the week for residents within and outside of the city limits.

The Gulfport Casino Ballroom, located on the waterfront, is one of the main event venues in the city. The Casino hosts Swing, Latin, Argentine Tango, and Ballroom Dance events five days a week with a large turnout from all across the Tampa area. The venue is available for rent to the public and is popular for weddings, company functions, and holiday parties. The ballroom features a 5000 sqft authentic 1930s style dance floor.

In 2011 Gulfport was named a finalist by Rand McNally for one of the best food towns in the United States.

Recreation
The city owns a full-service marina adjacent to Clam Bayou Nature Park.

Gulfport's Police Department includes a marine patrol which is responsible for the open waterway between Gulfport, St. Pete Beach, the Maximo neighborhood in St. Pete, and the Pinellas Bayway. They also patrol 5 miles of coastline along the Boca Ciega Bay.

There is a long municipal fishing pier, called Williams Pier, on Boca Ciega Bay. It's near the Casino Ballroom and not far from two Gulfport city parks, Veterans Park and the waterfront park and beach.

title: Gulfport, Florida


text:
Harbor Bluffs, Florida

Harbor Bluffs is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,860 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Harbor Bluffs is located at 27.90778°N, -82.825°W (27.907699, -82.825074).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 2.5 km2, of which 1.8 km2 is land and 0.7 km2 (27.37%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,807 people, 1,186 households, and 876 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,548.3 /km2. There were 1,251 housing units at an average density of 690.0 /km2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.04% White, 0.11% African American, 0.04% Native American, 1.57% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 1.00% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.96% of the population.

There were 1,186 households, out of which 25.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.4% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.1% were non-families. 21.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 2.76.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 19.3% under the age of 18, 3.6% from 18 to 24, 22.8% from 25 to 44, 30.7% from 45 to 64, and 23.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 47 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.1 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $61,397, and the median income for a family was $68,000. Males had a median income of $49,943 versus $30,900 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $39,261. About 3.9% of families and 5.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.9% of those under age 18 and 8.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Harbor Bluffs, Florida


text:
Indian Rocks Beach, Florida

Indian Rocks Beach, or IRB, is a city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. Indian Rocks Beach is part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area. Located on the barrier island Sand Key, it has over two miles of beach along the Gulf of Mexico, with 26 public beach accesses. Tourism is its primary industry. It was incorporated in 1956. The population was 3,673 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Indian Rocks Beach is located at 27.89583°N, -82.8475°W (27.895799, –82.847550).

It lies on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. It is north of Indian Shores and south of Belleair Shore and Belleair Beach.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.4 sqmi, of which 0.9 sqmi is land and 0.5 sqmi (33.09%) is water.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,673 people, 2,240 households, and 1,249 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 4,113 people, 2,328 households, and 1,291 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,072 people, 2,700 households, and 1,393 families residing in the city. The population density was 5,454.6 PD/sqmi. There were 4,032 housing units at an average density of 4,336.1 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 97.18% White, 0.30% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.61% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.30% from other races, and 1.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.17% of the population.

In 2000, there were 2,700 households, out of which 11.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.2% were married couples living together, 5.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.4% were non-families. 36.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.88 and the average family size was 2.39.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 10.1% under the age of 18, 4.3% from 18 to 24, 30.0% from 25 to 44, 36.9% from 45 to 64, and 18.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.1 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $53,770, and the median income for a family was $65,724. Males had a median income of $41,250 versus $31,833 for females. The per capita income for the city was $40,195. About 1.3% of families and 4.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Parks
Brown Park is on Bay Blvd, just north of 27th Ave, on very north end of Indian Rocks Beach. It has a playground and tennis courts.

Kolb Park is home to Campalong Baseball Field, Indian Rocks Beach Skatepark, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a large shaded playground area. This is where a lot of city events take place, such as Oktoberfest. The park is across the street from the city hall, between 15th Ave and 16th Ave.

Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve is located between 9th Ave and 10th Ave. The preserve features multiple boardwalk trails (some of which are waterfront), a dog park, and a community garden.

Chief Chic-A-Si Park is located on 4th Ave. It is home to the "Taste of IRB" event.

Churches

Church of the Isles (between 24th and 25th Ave)

Calvary Episcopal Church (between 16th and 18th Ave, waterfront)

Other locations
Indian Rocks Beach Library (between 15th and 16th Ave on Bay Palms Blvd)

Indian Rocks Beach Historical Museum is located on 4th Ave.

Indian Rocks Beach City Hall (between 15th and 16th Ave on Bay Palms Blvd)

United States Post Office (4th Ave)

Pinellas Suncoast Fire Rescue (between 3rd and 4th Ave)

Notable people

 * Sean Culkin, American football player
 * Road Warrior Hawk, professional wrestler who had retired to Indian Rocks Beach
 * George Scott, also a professional wrestler had retired to Indian Rocks Beach
 * Turner "Tfue" Tenney, YouTuber with 11 million subscribers, Twitch streamer and a professional gamer

title: Indian Rocks Beach, Florida


text:
Indian Shores, Florida

Indian Shores is a town in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, more commonly known as the Tampa Bay Area. The population was 1,190 at the 2020 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Indian Shores is located at 27.85056°N, -82.84333°W (27.850668, –82.843407).

Indian Shores is bordered by the beach communities of Indian Rocks Beach to the north and Redington Shores to the south.

The town is a beachfront community situated on a barrier island west of Seminole.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.9 sqmi, of which 0.3 sqmi is land and 0.6 sqmi (64.21%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Indian Shores has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,190 people, 634 households, and 413 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,420 people, 791 households, and 464 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,705 people, 989 households, and 483 families residing in the town. The population density was 5,097.7 PD/sqmi. There were 2,547 housing units at an average density of 7,615.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.36% White, 0.23% African American, 0.06% Native American, 0.41% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 0.12% from other races, and 0.76% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.46% of the population.

In 2000, there were 989 households, out of which 5.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.1% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 51.1% were non-families. 42.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.72 and the average family size was 2.26.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 6.1% under the age of 18, 2.6% from 18 to 24, 19.2% from 25 to 44, 40.0% from 45 to 64, and 32.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 56 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.6 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $45,000, and the median income for a family was $61,641. Males had a median income of $45,375 versus $35,875 for females. The per capita income for the town was $40,002. About 5.4% of families and 6.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.3% of those under age 18 and 9.8% of those age 65 or over.

Facilities and services
The town has undergone multiple construction and renovation projects, including utility under-grounding, road re-surfacing, and the placement of pedestrian safety measures. The town staff recently moved into a new municipal center which replaces the decades-old, antiquated facility. The new building houses all Town Departments, and a Council Chambers for official meetings. The fourth floor of the building has a large banquet hall, with waterfront balcony views on both sides.

Indian Shores also maintains a municipal police department, staffed and operational 24 hours per day, 365 days a year. The ISPD occupies a new modernized operations facility in the Municipal Center. The Police Department also provides services to the neighboring town of Redington Shores. Services are provided through traditional vehicle patrol, as well as ATV patrol on the sand beach areas. In addition to uniformed services, the department has a Criminal Investigation Division. Created in 1964, the Police Department is currently headed by Chief Richard (Rick) Swann.

title: Indian Shores, Florida


text:
Kenneth City, Florida

Kenneth City is a town in southern Pinellas County, Florida, between St. Petersburg and Pinellas Park, United States. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan statistical area (MSA), much more commonly known as the Tampa Bay area. The population was 5,047 at the 2020 US census.

History
Kenneth City was founded in 1957 by Sidney Colen, a local developer, who named the town after his son Kenneth Wong. Following the passage of a 2013 charter modification from a strong mayor to a council-manager form of government, the town hired its first manager since becoming incorporated in 1957. Following the March 2014 recruitment of a town manager, the town underwent reorganization intending to bolster its identity and gain recognition among the 23 other municipalities in Pinellas County.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Kenneth City is located at 27.81611°N, -82.71528°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.7 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Kenneth City has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,047 people, 1,923 households, and 1,078 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 4,980 people, 1,991 households, and 1,141 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the 2000 US Census, there were 4,400 people, 1,952 households, and 1,169 families residing in the town. The population density was 6,155.2 PD/sqmi. There were 2,175 housing units at an average density of 3,042.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 88.05% White, 3.34% African American, 0.18% Native American, 4.84% Asian, 1.91% from other races, and 1.68% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.66% of the population.

In 2000, there were 1,952 households, out of which 22.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.8% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.1% were non-families. 34.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.72.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 18.6% under the age of 18, 5.5% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 22.3% from 45 to 64, and 28.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 78.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 74.4 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $33,962, and the median income for a family was $42,161. Males had a median income of $30,986 versus $26,960 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,498. About 7.7% of families and 9.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 8.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: Kenneth City, Florida


text:
Largo, Florida

Largo is the third largest city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States, as well as the fourth largest in the Tampa Bay area. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a population of 82,485, up from 77,648 in 2010.

Largo was first incorporated in 1905. In 1913, it became the first municipality in Pinellas County to adopt a council-manager government. It switched back and forth between "town" and "city" a few times, and became a city again in 1974. It was an exporter of agricultural products until the 1960s population growth began to transform it into a bedroom community. From 1905 to 2010, Largo grew in area from 9/16 sqmi to about 48 km2, and in population from about 300 people to more than 70,000. Largo began as a rural farming community and became the third largest city in Florida's most densely populated county.

Largo is a sister city to Tosayamada, Kōchi, Japan, and has been named a National Arbor Day Tree City for 32 years in a row.

Beginnings of the area
The native inhabitants of the Largo area were the Tocobaga Indians. They are also known as the Safety Harbor culture from their archeological remains near present-day Safety Harbor. The Spanish came to Florida in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Tocobaga had been virtually destroyed after years of exposure to European diseases, Spanish settlement efforts and warfare between Spain and England. The Largo area, like the rest of Pinellas County, was largely deserted. In 1763, Spain transferred sovereignty of Florida to the United Kingdom. In 1783, Florida fell to Spanish sovereignty once again until it was transferred to the United States in 1821. By 1845, a surveyor recorded the location of Lake Tolulu, apparently south of present-day East Bay Drive and roughly where the Largo Central Park Nature Preserve is today.

Later homesteaders to the Largo area included the families of James and Daniel McMullen, around 1852. The McMullens and other settlers raised cattle, grew citrus and vegetables and fished. During the Civil War, many Largo area residents fought for the Confederate States of America. James and Daniel McMullen were members of the "Cow Cavalry" driving Florida cattle to Georgia and the Carolinas to help sustain the war effort. Other area residents served on blockade runners. Still others left the area to serve in the Confederacy's armies. After the war, Largo area residents returned to farming, ranching, and raising citrus. The Orange Belt Railway reached the area in 1888. By this time Lake Tolulu had been renamed Lake Largo, and residents of the community west of the lake adopted the name "Largo".

Incorporation to Great Depression
The Town of Largo was incorporated in 1905. Lake Largo was drained in 1916 to make way for growth and development. Between 1910 and 1930, Largo's population increased by about 500%. Then and for decades afterwards, Largo's economy was based on agriculture—citrus groves, cattle ranches, and hog farms, as well as turpentine stills and sawmills. Largo is best remembered as "Citrus City", from the time it was a citrus packing, canning and shipping center.

The Great Depression was difficult for Largo, which lacked the financial resources to meet its obligations. Largo reverted to its 1913 boundaries and charter, after which the population dropped by approximately 30%. The debt incurred from the issuance of bonds in the late 1920s was not paid off until after World War II.

Rapid growth
The years after World War II saw rapid growth as people began moving into the area and Largo annexed surrounding lands. During the nuclear arms race, electronics companies like General Electric and Honeywell boosted the economy. The population increased to about 5,000 in 1960, to about 20,000 in 1970, and to about 70,000 in 2005. Largo's original area was 9/16 sqmi. By 1982, Largo had grown to about 13 sqmi and to about 48 km2 by 2010. The groves, farms, ranches and forests have mostly given way to homes and shopping centers and light industry. The increased population resulted in a need for increased city services. All departments saw rapid growth and improvements in quality, especially under the leadership of the late Mayor Thom Feaster. In 1995, Largo Central Park opened on the site of the old Pinellas County Fairgrounds. It is the setting for the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center and is located across the street from the Largo Public Library.

In the 2006 commission elections, Largo achieved two milestones furthering its former motto of "City of Progress". Democrat Patricia Gerard became the city's first female mayor. She narrowly defeated incumbent mayor Robert E. Jackson in a bitterly contested race. (Dr. Jackson had been the longest-serving elected Democrat in Pinellas County.) The voters' choice between these two candidates decided the major issue of the election: that the city would not revert to a mayor-dominated process of governance in lieu of the continuing role for the seven-member commission acting as non-partisans—that is, deliberating independently and equally with the mayor and deciding democratically the political issues of the city.

Also, the city elected its first commissioner of African-American descent, Rodney J. Woods, in a landslide against a former commissioner.

On August 24, 2009, the iconic Largo clock tower, which was constructed shortly after completion of Largo Central Park, was demolished. City officials made the decision as the tower had fallen into disrepair. The area surrounding the clock tower was replaced with a small garden area in order to incorporate the area into Largo Central Park.

Geography
Largo is located at 27.90833°N, -82.77778°W (27.908355, −82.777791). It is centrally located in Pinellas County, touching the Intracoastal Waterway to the southwest and Tampa Bay to the northeast. Clearwater is Largo's neighbor to the north. To the northwest are the towns of Belleair and Belleair Bluffs. The city of Pinellas Park lies south of eastern Largo. Seminole lies south of western Largo. The unincorporated community of Ridgecrest forms a large enclave between western and central Largo. A number of county enclaves pepper the City of Largo.

In 2010, Largo's total area was 48.1 km2, of which 45.6 sqkm was land and 2.5 sqkm, or 5.22%, was water. As of 2004, there were 651 acre of park lands. The city's lowest elevation is sea level. At its highest, the city's elevation is about 69 ft. Largo is dotted with a number of lakes, the largest of which is Taylor Lake at 53 acre. Allen's Creek drains northeast Largo, flowing into Tampa Bay. McKay Creek flows through southwest Largo into the Intracoastal Waterway. The McKay Creek basin is prone to flooding.

Climate
Largo is located on the Pinellas Peninsula, so that its climate is moderated by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. In the winter, temperatures are warmer on the Pinellas Peninsula than on mainland Florida. Winters are generally drier than the rest of the year. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Largo has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

Most of the rainfall comes in the summer, when the sea breeze carries moisture from the Gulf inland. Largo's record low is 22 F, recorded on December 13, 1962. Largo's record high is 100 F, recorded on July 5, 1995.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 82,485 people, 36,926 households, and 18,727 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 77,648 people, 36,806 households, and 19,575 families residing in the city.

In 2010, there were 36,806 households, out of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.2% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.5% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.67.

In 2010, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 22.6% from 25 to 44, 28.6% from 45 to 64, and 26.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48.2 years.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 69,371 people, 34,041 households, and 18,382 families residing in the city. The population density was 4,429.1 PD/sqmi. There were 40,261 housing units at an average density of 2,570.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.71% White, 2.69% African American, 0.34% Native American, 1.69% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 0.99% from other races, and 1.49% from two or more races. 4.18% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.

In 2000, there were 34,041 households, out of which 17.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.0% were non-families. 38.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.59.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 30.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.9 males.

As of 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $32,217, and the median income for a family was $41,523. Males had a median income of $30,186 versus $24,477 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,848. About 6.0% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
The decline of agriculture with population growth beginning in the 1960s largely transformed Largo into a bedroom community. Electronics, though important, could not fill the gap left by agriculture. Other light manufacturers fill various niches. The vast majority of jobs in Largo are in services and in retail sales.

The healthcare industry continues to grow to meet the needs of an aging population. Hospitals are among the area's strongest employers. Largo Medical Center, owned by the Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), was established in 1978; it consists of two separate campuses: its original campus near downtown Largo, and the former Sun Coast Hospital on Indian Rocks Road, which was renamed Largo Medical Center-Indian Rocks Campus after its acquisition by HCA.

At one time Largo was the headquarters of Eckerd Corporation.

Top employers
According to the city's 2018 Community Development Division, the top employers in the city are:

Public library
The Largo Public Library opened in 1916 in the basement of the Town Hall, with a collection of about 560 books. In 1968, a new location was opened to house 14,000 titles. In 1977, a new library was erected on 5 acre of donated land. Following an expansion in 1989, the library held 250,000 items. Largo Public Library's current building was built in 2005.

Government
The City of Largo is governed by a city commission of seven people elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The mayor acts as a member and presiding officer of the commission. The commission's role encompasses the setting of city policy, exercising those duties imposed by the charter and law. In so doing, the city commission executes the city's powers by the passage of resolutions and ordinances. The commission appoints and directs the city manager and approves the city manager's appointments for city attorney, assistant city manager, and city clerk.

The city manager directs the administration in governing and providing municipal services to Largo. The Administration Department includes the City Manager's Office, the City Attorney's Office, the City Clerk's Office, the Communications and Marketing Office, the Office of Management and Budget, and the City Attorney.

The city manager is appointed by and answerable to the city commission as a whole. The City of Largo is unique in that a supermajority of commissioners is required to terminate the city manager. The city manager appoints and supervises all department directors, and with commission approval, appoints the assistant city manager, the city clerk, and the city attorney.

Education
Pinellas County Schools operates the city's public K–12 schools. The school district's administrative headquarters are located in Largo. Largo high school students attend Largo High School. The school mascot is the razorback boar, and the school athletic teams are called the Packers because of the influence of the citrus-packing industry on the town, most notably the packing plant of Senator John Taylor.

Largo middle school students attend Largo Middle School.

The main campus of Schiller International University is in Largo.

St. Patrick Catholic School has a campus on Trotter Road in Largo, providing a private education for grades Pre-K–8. Other private schools in the city include Veritas Academy.

Transportation
Largo is served by two international airports, Tampa International Airport and St. Petersburg–Clearwater International Airport. St. Petersburg–Clearwater Airport is located about 6 mi east of downtown. Tampa International Airport is located about 20 mi east of downtown on the other side of Tampa Bay. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority provides bus service throughout Pinellas County and express service to Tampa. State Roads 686 and 688 pass through Largo to connect with Interstate 275, which connects with I-75. US 19 and US 19 Alternate run north–south through Largo. A grid of county roads connects Largo with its neighbors.

Notable people

 * Beth Bauer, former LPGA golfer
 * Michael Bradley, current PGA golfer
 * Irene Cara (1959–2022), singer and actress; lived and died in Largo
 * Al Conover, former American football player and coach
 * Sarah Mavis Dabbs, All-American Girls Professional Baseball League player
 * D'Qwell Jackson, NFL linebacker, Indianapolis Colts
 * Chloe Lowery, singer-songwriter
 * Dexter McCluster, NFL running back/wide receiver, Kansas City Chiefs
 * Brittney McConn, retired figure skater
 * Casey Moore, current Nevada Wolf Pack running backs coach
 * Lanny Poffo, professional wrestler
 * Leonard T. Schroeder, retired U.S. Army colonel, first American soldier ashore on D-Day in World War II
 * John Stansel Taylor, Florida state senator
 * Bill Young, U.S. Congressman
 * Anastasija Zolotic, first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in Taekwondo

Sister cities

 * 🇯🇵Kami (Kōchi, Japan) – since 1969

title: Largo, Florida


text:
Madeira Beach, Florida

Madeira Beach is a city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States, bordered on the west by the Gulf of Mexico, and on the east by St. Petersburg. As of the 2020 census, the population was 3,895. The entertainment district of John's Pass is located on the Intracoastal Waterway. The city is often referred to by locals as Mad Beach. It is named after the Portuguese island of Madeira.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the City of Madeira Beach is located at 27.79585°N, -82.79062°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.3 sqmi, of which 1.0 sqmi is land, and 2.2 sqmi (68.50%) are water.

The city is located on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico to the southwest, and Boca Ciega Bay to the northeast. One bridge, the Tom Stuart Causeway, connects Madeira Beach to the mainland, in the unincorporated community of Bay Pines. To the northwest of Madeira Beach is the town of Redington Beach, and to the southeast, across the inlet of John's Pass, is the city of Treasure Island.

Climate
The City of Madeira Beach is in a humid subtropical climate zone with a Köppen Climate Classification of "Cfa" (C = mild temperate, f = fully humid, and a = hot summer).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,895 people, 2,001 households, and 1,310 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 4,263 people, 2,278 households, and 1,100 families residing in the city.

2000 census
At the 2000 census, there were 4,511 people in 2,528 households, including 1,122 families, in the city. The population density was 4,392.0 PD/sqmi. There were 3,976 housing units, at an average density of 3,871.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was: 97.05% White, 0.27% African American, 0.31% Native American, 0.58% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.67% from other races, and 1.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race made up 2.37%.

Of the 2,528 households in 2000, 9.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them; 35.6% were married couples living together; 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present; and 55.6% were non-families. 42.4% of households were one person, and 12.2% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 1.78, and the average family size was 2.36.

In 2000, the age distribution was 8.2% under the age of 18; 4.8% from 18 to 24; 29.3% from 25 to 44; 35.7% from 45 to 64; and 22.0% that are 65 or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.2 males.

In 2000, the median household income was $36,671, and the median family income was $50,833. Males had a median income of $32,353, versus $27,455 for females. The per capita income for the city was $30,097. About 4.1% of families and 9.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.1% of those under age 18, and 12.2% of those age 65 or over.

Chicken Church

Madeira Beach's Church By The Sea is a non-denominational church serving the gulf beaches including Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, Redington, St. Pete Beach, as well as the cities of Seminole and St. Petersburg. The Church by the Sea construction lasted from 1944 to 1946,

The church has become a tourist attraction because its tower resembles a chicken; it is known colloquially as the "Chicken Church."

John's Pass Marina

On September 27, 1848, a strong hurricane struck the West Coast of Florida. It separated the barrier island on the coast and created a waterway known today as John's Pass. John Levique, along with Joseph Silva, was the one who discovered it and named it after himself and is now a federally owned canal.

In 2022, the Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, included in the budget $1,500,000 to dredge John's Pass.

title: Madeira Beach, Florida


text:
North Redington Beach, Florida

North Redington Beach is a town in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, more commonly known as the Tampa Bay Area. The population was 1,495 at the 2020 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of North Redington Beach is located at 27.82095°N, -82.82281°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, of which 0.3 sqmi is land and 0.7 sqmi (70.59%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of North Redington Beach has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,495 people, 661 households, and 413 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,417 people, 693 households, and 323 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,474 people, 804 households, and 463 families residing in the town. The population density was 4,866.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,372 housing units at an average density of 4,529.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.81% White, 0.27% African American, 0.27% Native American, 0.95% Asian, 0.20% Pacific Islander, 0.34% from other races, and 1.15% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.05% of the population.

In 2000, there were 804 households, out of which 8.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 4.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.3% were non-families. 35.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.83 and the average family size was 2.31.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 8.2% under the age of 18, 2.5% from 18 to 24, 18.0% from 25 to 44, 31.5% from 45 to 64, and 39.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 58 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.6 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $46,196, and the median income for a family was $60,855. Males had a median income of $52,206 versus $35,114 for females. The per capita income for the town was $40,066. About 0.9% of families and 4.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Library
The community is served by the Gulf Beaches Public Library, located in nearby Madeira Beach. The library is supported by Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, and Treasure Island. These five communities have combined their resources in order to fund the library, which they would not be able to maintain individually.

title: North Redington Beach, Florida


text:
Oldsmar, Florida

Oldsmar is a city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 14,898. The Oldsmar name dates to April 12, 1916, when automobile pioneer Ransom E. Olds purchased 37541 acre of land north of Tampa Bay to establish a planned community.

Geography
Oldsmar is located at 28.04206°N, -82.67635°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 25.0 sqkm, of which 22.5 sqkm is land and 2.5 sqkm (9.83%) is water.

History
A number of archeological digs in the Oldsmar area revealed small campsites as well as permanent villages that date from the Archaic period (c. 8000 to 1000 BC).

In 1916, Ransom E. Olds purchased 37,541 acres (151.92 km2) on the northern tip of Tampa Bay in order to design a planned community. The property appealed to Olds because of its proximity to several other towns (including Tampa and Tarpon Springs) as well as being located on the Tampa and Gulf Coast division of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. The town went through a number of name changes. Initially, it was called R. E. Olds-on-the-Bay and then changed to Oldsmar. In 1927 the name was again changed, this time to Tampa Shores. And finally, in 1937, it went back to its old name of Oldsmar.

Shortly after purchasing the property, Olds formed the Reo Farms Company (renamed Reolds Farms Company) in order to administer to the creation of his new town. Architects and city planners were hired to create drafts and laborers were hired for construction. The town possessed the staples of any small town, such as churches, schools, and a bank, as well as a railroad depot, sawmill, and dock facilities on the 10 miles of waterfront that faced Old Tampa Bay. Outside of town, tracts of land were parcelled up for agriculture. To advertise how good the land was for growing crops and raising livestock, the Reolds Farms Company built a model farm. On the farm was a herd of cattle, horses, pigs, and other livestock. They also had plots planted with potatoes, turnips, beets, celery, and citrus fruits, among other crops. An oil well was drilled but was never productive.

The company also initiated a large publicity campaign to attract Northerners into becoming residents. One of the more popular slogans used was "Oldsmar for Health, Wealth and Happiness." Tours were also planned with Pullmans chartered between Detroit and Oldsmar. To accommodate prospective residents and other tourists a 60-room hotel called the Wayside Inn was built.

Olds named some of the roads himself including Gim Gong Road, named after the horticulturalist Lue Gim Gong. Olds had hired Gim Gong to help set up the agricultural community. In 1919, the city's first library was started by the Woman's Club. It was donated to the city in 1977.

Original city plans included a golf course and a luxury hotel on the bay, but neither were ever built. A sawmill and foundry were established that made cast-iron engines for tractors and grove heaters. The mill also produced the Olds Chair (also called the Oldsmar Chair). The chair was similar to the popular Adirondack chair and was made out of either yellow pine or cypress.

Olds provided financial backing for the Kardell Tractor and Truck Company to move into town. Renamed Oldsmar Tractor Company, Olds had hoped it would devise a machine to clear out palmetto roots, pine stumps, and other scrub, which all had to be removed by hand otherwise. Eventually, Oldsmar had dairy and agricultural farms and, in the early days, it was a common sight to see cattle and hogs running loose through the town. Aside from peppers, tomatoes, corn, gladiolus, and grapes, a banana plantation was established but the winters proved too harsh and the crops failed.

In 1921, a hurricane hit Tampa Bay. Because Oldsmar sits on a plateau with an elevation never rising over 20 ft above sea level, it was devastated by the storm. Large trees were uprooted and floodwater reached levels 14 ft above normal. Some of the homes that survived the storm were moved, by barge, to St. Petersburg in the following two decades.

Olds spent a reported $100,000 drilling an oil well that never yielded. The well is now capped and sits on the grounds of the Tampa Bay Downs Racetrack. Other such wells were dug in Florida; two in the Panhandle and one in Sarasota, but none of them possessed the technology to drill through the Florida aquifer.

By 1923, Olds had over $4.5 million invested in the community and there was only a population of around 200 inhabitants. When he realized Oldsmar was not growing as anticipated, he began liquidating his assets by first selling unplatted parcels of land. The racetrack was nearly completed when he traded it for the Fort Harrison Hotel in Clearwater. The rest of the land was traded for the Belerive Hotel in Kansas. By the time Olds left town, he had suffered a loss of nearly $3 million. While Olds envisioned a city of 100,000, the population was around 200 when he left.

Harry A. Prettyman, a St. Louis promoter, and his associates continued to sell lots in town following Olds's departure. Prettyman staged promotional gimmicks like Gold Rushes where pieces of gold were buried on a vacant lot and everyone got to dig for it. In 1927 Prettyman was caught selling underwater lots. To avoid scandal, the town of Oldsmar was renamed Tampa Shores. It wasn't until 1935 that the last of the property owned by Olds was finally sold.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 14,898 people, 5,182 households, and 3,707 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 13,591 people, 4,922 households, and 3,495 families residing in the city.

Economy
Oldsmar hosts an office of Nielsen Media Research. Most of the employees of Nielsen Media Research work in Oldsmar and the company's media measurement work originates from the office. The Associated Press said that the Oldsmar building, with a cost figure of $80 million, was its "nerve center." In 2003 the company moved into its Oldsmar complex and consolidated its employees there, with workers from Dunedin and other areas in Pinellas County moving into the Oldsmar building. Major defense contractor and aerospace company Lockheed Martin has a facility in Oldsmar that employed over 600 people as of 2015.

Culture
Oldsmar celebrates its history every year with Oldsmar Days and Nights, including parades, car shows (featuring the Oldsmobile), and carnival rides. The celebration is held in Spring.

Education
Oldsmar is part of the Pinellas County Schools district and is served by East Lake High School, Carwise Middle School, Forest Lakes Elementary School, Oldsmar Elementary School, and Oldsmar Christian School.

Notable people

 * Troy Baxter Jr., professional NBA basketball player
 * Francis Biondi, Finalist on FOX's MasterChef US Season 5 and professional golfer
 * John Brown, professional NBA basketball player
 * L.J. Figueroa, professional NBA basketball player
 * Cito Gaston, MLB all-star outfielder, two-time World Series Champion and first African-American manager to win a World Series
 * Justin James, professional NBA basketball player
 * Gene Michael, professional MLB baseball player, and former manager of the New York Yankees
 * Artavis Scott, NFL wide receiver
 * Nathan Harriel, MLS defender for Philadelphia Union.

title: Oldsmar, Florida


text:
Palm Harbor, Florida

Palm Harbor is a census-designated place (CDP) and unincorporated community in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the CDP had a population of 61,366.

Culture
Palm Harbor is located 35 km north of downtown St. Petersburg and west of Tampa. It is a largely residential community with several concentrations of commerce. Downtown Palm Harbor, north of Tampa Road between U.S. Highway 19 Alternate and Omaha Street hosts many small shops and eateries along with a handful of historic buildings. U.S. Highway 19, a mile or two east of downtown, offers access to higher concentrations of commerce, with an array of national chain restaurants and retailers. One entrance to Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, a nationally regarded golf course and home of the PGA's Valspar Championship, is found on U.S. 19 just north of Alderman Road.

The historic downtown district of Palm Harbor, at Florida Avenue and Alt. US 19 and CR 1, has numerous festivals and craft fairs. Old Palm Harbor Main Streets, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, hosts their signature event the first Friday of every month. "Palm Harbor's First Friday Celebrations" are a popular community event for youngsters and adults alike. There are rides and games for the children, with opportunities to dine on food from the many local restaurants, enjoy local artists and crafters displaying and selling their wares. Annually, the first Sunday in October marks when the "Taste of Palm Harbor" festival is held. The event is presented by the Palm Harbor Junior Women's Club with the proceeds benefiting their "Making a Difference" grants & scholarships program. The Taste of Palm Harbor traditionally offers live music and the tasting of samples from over 20 local restaurants, many of which make seafood their specialty.

Government
Palm Harbor is an unincorporated part of Pinellas County. HB 183 – Town of Palm Harbor/Pinellas County, from 2009, was the most recent local bill that would have scheduled a referendum allowing Palm Harbor voters the opportunity to decide whether they wanted to incorporate, but the bill died in committee. Pinellas County legislators had voted on January 22, 2009, to support a bill allowing voters in Palm Harbor to decide whether they wanted their unincorporated community to become the county's 25th city. It passed over the objections of Pinellas County Commissioner Susan Latvala, who said she was appearing in both her official capacity and as a Palm Harbor resident. The Legislature would first have needed to conduct a feasibility study to make sure that cityhood made fiscal sense.

In 1985, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners enacted County Code 85–28, which set into place the Palm Harbor Community Services Agency (PHCSA), a special taxing district to which tax was levied in the form of millage to provide for recreational and library services to the unincorporated community. The PHCSA board is a volunteer panel elected by the voters within the district to oversee the funding of Palm Harbor Library, East Lake Community Library and Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation.

Recreation
Palm Harbor has various recreational amenities. The area is home to John Chesnut Sr. Park, located in the East Lake region, as well as H.S. "Pop" Stansell Park, located to the west of Palm Harbor Boulevard and overlooking St. Joseph's Sound. The Palm Harbor Community Services District also manages several sport complexes in the community: J. Stephen Putnam Park, Palm Field, and Sunderman Recreation Complex. The community activity center is located at 1500 16th Street, managed by the District's parks and recreation department. This facility was originally constructed by Pinellas County in the late 1990s as a senior recreation facility, however lacked the funding to remain open and available to the community. The District received the property in 2004, and started youth, teen and adult programs, youth summer camps and community services.

Palm Harbor is also the home to the Rheba Sutton White Chapel. This historic facility, which was under Pinellas County ownership previously, lacked the funding to keep its doors open and was given to the Palm Harbor Community Services District in November 2012. Now managed by the District's parks and recreation department, the chapel was completely restored and is the site for many banquets, weddings and community special events. Harbor Hall, the banquet facility built next to the chapel, also serves as a banquet and recreational space.

Library history
Palm Harbor Library opened April 1, 1978, funded by a Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU), and is the only library in the state of Florida funded by a MSTU. Ozona Elementary School teacher, Jeanette Malouf, noted that students did not have a library close enough to their homes to borrow books. The closest libraries at the time were the Dunedin Library and Tarpon Springs Library, both of which charged fees to members not living in their respective cities. Jeanette Malouf was the Vice President of the Palm Harbor Civic Club, which donated $400 as start-up for funding of the library. With donated books, and building supplies by various community members, the first floor of a home on 1205 Omaha Ave. donated by Bill Honey was renovated into a small library.

The Palm Harbor Library ran entirely on volunteers, which formed the group, the Palm Harbor Friends of the Library Inc. on December 18, 1979. The Palm Harbor Friends of the Library elected officials in 1980, where Jeanette Malouf was named director of the library. The library continued to run on community donations and fundraisers and their semi-annual book sales. With 10,000 volumes, the library moved to historical Palm Harbor Methodist Church on 12th Street in Old Palm Harbor in December 1980. By 1982, the library volumes had doubled to 20,000 and served over 2,000 families within the community, and also acquired a new service of accessibility through the donation of a large-print section in memory of Lea Gibbons. As the library continued to grow, it needed more space. The Florida State Library opened up a grant for public libraries of $200,000 to be included 1984–85 budget. Palm Harbor Library encountered two issues in qualification for the grant; the first was that it could only be made to a government agency (and at the time Palm Harbor was unincorporated), but Pinellas County Administrator Fred Marquis supported their application. The second issue was that the community must match the grant of $200,000, which Pinellas County donated 8 acres of 6th Street, counting for $100,000, and the rest must be raised. Ultimately, the grant was vetoed by Governor Graham on June 30, 1983, due to funding and denied tax raises by legislation.

Through extensive fundraising and membership fees, Malouf and the Palm Harbor Friends of the Library continued work towards the goal of building the library. In February 1985, Senator Curt Kiser proposed a bill to create a Special District Status for the Palm Harbor Fire District, which was approved in June. This allowed Palm Harbor to tax themselves for various services such as a library, which led to the development of the MSTU. In order to buy land for the Palm Harbor Library, a proposal for tax-free bonds was approved by the PHCSA and the County Commissioner approved the purchase of the site on Nebraska Avenue as the site for the Palm Harbor Library. The Palm Harbor Library officially opened at its new and current location on Nebraska Avenue on July 5, 1988.

Geography
Palm Harbor is located at 28.08389°N, -82.75389°W (28.083926, -82.753947).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 68.9 sqkm, of which 45.0 sqkm is land, and 23.9 sqkm, comprising 34.67%, is water.

Palm Harbor has a unique "hilly" geography which is uncommon in Florida.

History
The area that is now Palm Harbor was largely uninhabited until settlers began arriving in the 1860s. The area became known as "Curlew", with the Curlew Pioneer Cemetery, established in 1869, and the Curlew Methodist Church. A post office named "Bay St. Joseph" opened in 1878. In 1881, Henry B. Plant opened the San Marino Hotel in what later became Palm Harbor in 1885. The Gulf View Hotel also opened around that time. The Sutherland Improvement Company acquired land in the Curlew/Bay St. Joseph area and developed it into the settlement of Sutherland. In 1888 the Sutherland Post Office opened. The Orange Belt Railway reached Sutherland in 1890.

The name was changed to Palm Harbor in 1925. Sutherland boasted two beautiful hotels, the larger one becoming Southern College in 1902. It sat high on the bluff overlooking Sutherland Bayou and the Gulf of Mexico. Sutherland was thought to be named after the Duke of Sutherland, who visited these parts after landing at Tarpon Springs in 1887. Local pioneers dismiss this coincidence, pointing out that the name Sutherland is a shortening of Southern Land and Development Company, the group which originally platted the community in 1888.

Palm Harbor was once home to the Florida State Headquarters of the Ku Klux Klan when Donald Kersey, who was not a member of the Klan, allowed the organization to use his 13-acre property just north of Tampa Road on US-19 beginning in 1977. Kersey allowed the KKK to use his land when a portion of it was rezoned from commercial to residential which cost him a substantial amount of money. The KKK told Kersey that they needed to go underground to not gain any attention from authorities but that his land would be a great place to try to recruit people into the organization. Kersey stated that he told the zoning commission that he would make them pay for their zoning decisions which ended up bringing the Klan to the small unincorporated town. The land was sold in 2006 with a large strip mall built on it with a subdivision behind that structure. While Kersey got his revenge on the zoning committee with his actions, the locals did resist since the building was burned down on four occasions and the Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce passed a resolution condemning the group and the actions of Mr. Kersey. Once his actions were known to locals, his house was set ablaze when someone tried to burn the KKK buildings down on the property. Citizens of Palm Harbor also resisted the Klan's relocation. Palm State Bank President Frank S. Weaner, a member of the Jewish community, waged a long campaign against the presence of the Klan in Palm Harbor. He attempted to foster a dialogue between himself and the Florida Grand Dragon Jack Gregory. While these discussions did slowly change the viewpoint of Gregory, they did little to dislodge the group from the community. Weaner later debated Grand Wizard David Duke national head of the KKK, before a nationally publicized rally, and proceeded to inform him that much of the Klan's literature about the Jewish people was wrong. Eventually, the land was sold in 2006 and the Klan's activity began to wane in the 1990s.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 61,366 people, 26,773 households, and 16,344 families residing in the CDP.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 57,439 people, 25,779 households, and 15,909 families residing in the CDP.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 59,248 people, 25,461 households, and 16,906 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,276.6 /km2. There were 28,044 housing units at an average density of 604.2 /km2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 95.83% White, 0.97% African American, 0.19% Native American, 1.28% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.60% from other races, and 1.10% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.45% of the population.

In 2000, there were 25,461 households, out of which 27.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.3% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.6% were non-families. 28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.79.

In 2000, in the CDP, the population was spread out, with 20.8% under the age of 18, 5.1% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 23.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.5 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the CDP was $45,404, and the median income for a family was $52,925. Males had a median income of $41,003 versus $29,287 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $26,470. About 4.3% of families and 5.5% of the population were considered below the poverty line, including 5.2% of those under age 18 and 6.5% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Gus Bilirakis, congressman serving as the U.S. representative for Florida's 12th congressional district since 2013
 * Michael Bilirakis, congressman who lived in Palm Harbor during his time in office
 * Ted Larsen, pro football offensive lineman
 * Mike Rinder (born 1955), former executive for and current critic of the Church of Scientology.
 * Richie Scheinblum (1942–2021), Major League Baseball All Star outfielder
 * Ben Sweat, left-back for MLS club New England Revolution
 * Henry Zebrowski, comedian and actor

Taxing authorities

 * Palm Harbor Fire Rescue, funded by the Palm Harbor Special Fire Control District
 * Palm Harbor Library, funded by the Palm Harbor Community Services District
 * Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation, funded by the Palm Harbor Community Services District
 * Palm Harbor University High School

Local community links

 * Old Palm Harbor Main Street, Inc
 * Palm Harbor Voters United

title: Palm Harbor, Florida


text:
Pinellas Park, Florida

Pinellas Park is a city located in central Pinellas County, United States. The population was 53,093 at the 2020 census. The city is the fourth largest city in Pinellas County. The City of Pinellas Park was incorporated in 1914. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, most commonly referred to as the Tampa Bay Area.

History
The city was founded by Philadelphia publisher F. A. Davis, who purchased 12800 acre of Hamilton Disston's land around 1911. Davies used promotional brochures to lure northerners, especially Pennsylvanians, to the town, noting the pleasant climate in the winter and the agreeable agricultural conditions. The Florida Association, a corporation, set up model farms and offered a free lot in the city with the purchase of ten acres of nearby farm land. A two-story building called the Colony House was established to house prospective purchasers of the available farm plots. The primary crop that the founders intended to grow on the farms they established was sugar cane. By 1912, lots in the city were being sold separately. The City of Pinellas Park was formally incorporated on October 14, 1914.

Though not on the original Orange Belt Railway, Pinellas Park did have a train depot, razed in 1970, on the line between Clearwater and St. Petersburg. The city lay on the vehicle road from St. Petersburg to Tampa. Growth was moderate until after World War II, when the city's population more than tripled.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 41.9 sqkm, of which 40.2 sqkm is land and 1.7 sqkm (4.14%) is water.

Pinellas Park city limits are contiguous with those of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, Seminole, Kenneth City, and unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. Annexation into the city is voluntary by both the property owner and the City Council.

Because of the city's relatively low elevation between major bodies of water, and its generally flat topography, it has historically been subject to flooding. Through construction of a network of drainage canals and other measures by the Pinellas Park Water Management District, flooding in the city has been greatly mitigated.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Pinellas Park has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 53,093 people, 20,746 households, and 12,344 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 49,079 people, 20,565 households, and 12,553 families residing in the city.

2000 census
Linguistically in 2000, 76.1% of the population over the age of five reported speaking only English at home, while 23.9% reported speaking some other language.

As of 2000, there were 20,746 households, out of which 22.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no spouse present, 6.6% had a male householder with no spouse present, and 40.4% were non-families. 32.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.22.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 20.3% under the age of 20, 10.4% from 20 to 29, 14.3% from 30 to 39, 12.5% from 440 to 49, 20.5% from 50 to 64, and 22.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43.6 years. 47.1% of the inhabitants were male and 52.9% were female. Like many areas in Florida, the population of Pinellas Park swells temporarily, but substantially, for half the year as mostly-retired adults (called "snow birds"), who reside elsewhere in the northern states or Canada during the summer, come to Florida for its mild winter climate.

As of 2000, educational statues surveys showed that among those 25 and older 14.3% did not have a high school diploma, while 32.4% had only a high school diploma, 19.8% had some college experience without a degree, 25.8% had an Associate's or bachelor's degree, and 7.7% had a graduate or professional degree.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $58,526, and the median income for a family was $58,526. Males had a median income of $44,616 versus $38,510 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,701. About 9.0% of families and 13.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.8% of those under age 18 and 11.2% of those age 65 or over.

Fine arts
The Pinellas Park Civic Orchestra and the Sunsation Show Chorus perform regularly in the City-owned 500-seat Performing Arts Center. Regular theatre organ concerts are given at the City Auditorium, home to a "Mighty Wurlitzer" restored by the local chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society. The Pinellas Park Arts Society holds monthly themed contests in the Park Station building, close to the Creative District. To encourage artists to live and work in the district, the city has established two facilities: Studios at 5663 and the Artist Live/Work building.

Automobile culture
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum displays an extensive collection of historical automobiles with an emphasis on progressive engineering achievement, the personal interest of founder and benefactor Alain Cerf. The museum houses a unique working full-scale replica of the first self-propelled mechanical vehicle, the fardier of Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot. Luxury cars currently displayed and sold in Pinellas Park include Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Bentley, McLaren, and Aston Martin. These and a Maserati dealership are all located in the Gateway area near the Automobile Museum.

Car and truck aficionados display their prized vehicles nearly weekly on 49th Street and compete in the regularly scheduled shows. The Showtime Dragstrip provides a venue for drag racing fans. Nearby on the aptly-named Automobile Boulevard is Tampa Bay Grand Prix, where youth and young adults race high-speed go carts on an indoor track.

Community events

Pinellas Park is known throughout the Tampa Bay area for a series of community events held annually in a city-owned bandshell located behind City hall. The most popular of these events is "Country in the Park", a festival held every year generally on the third Saturday of March, but always after the Florida State Fair and Florida Strawberry Festival. The festival's popularity stems from its wide array of events, such as arts and crafts shows, NASCAR displays, popular amusement park rides, and multi-artist day-long concerts, and the fact that parking, entry to the festival, and attendance of the concert are all free of charge. As of 2011, the Country in the Park festival has been organized for 21 years straight. Another popular celebration among the locals is Pride in the Park. This celebration occurs during the week leading up to Country in the Park. Usually the night before Country in the Park, the firefighters' chili cookoff takes place at the bandshell.

Pinellas Park is home to a memorial to the Korean War, located in Freedom Lake Park.

Economy
Due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Pinellas Park is home to many marine businesses, from manufacturing to service and supplies. Large optical manufacturers, including Transitions Optical, are located either in Pinellas Park or nearby in the broader area known as "Gateway".

In 2024 the city reported the unemployment rate of the 'immediate area' at 3.10%. In 2020, the city reported total governmental-type and business-type assets of $271 million and total revenue from taxation and charges for services of $104 million.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics' Pinellas Park facility specializes in metal forming, fabrication and assembly of components for military and civilian aircraft. Current and prior projects include the F/A-22, F-16, C-130J, C-5, U2, Northrop's E-2C Hawkeye, the Gulfstream G5, Goodrich Aerospace, Piper, the P-3, Atlas Launch Vehicle, Space Shuttle, and B-52 Bomber.

The C.W. Bill Young Armed Forces Reserve Center, a $47-million multi-facility training center for both U.S. Army Reserve and Florida Army National Guard units, opened in 2005 and serves thousands of soldiers yearly.

Several of the largest employers in Pinellas County occupy parcels contiguous with the city, including Raymond James Financial, Transamerica Financial, Cisco, FIS (credit card services), Valpak (advertising mailers), Orbital ATK (defense electronics), and Home Shopping Network.

The city has three concentrations of retail business all along Park Boulevard. At 49th Street, near the historic center of town, one finds traditional shops, small businesses, and restaurants. Just to the east, at U.S. 19, the Shoppes at Park Place anchor the city's second retail hub with big-box retailers and a large movie theater. At the western edge of the city, near 66th Street and Belcher Road, are more big box retailers, ethnic specialty shops and restaurants, and the enormous Wagon Wheel and Mustang flea markets.

Due to the significant Vietnamese, Laotian, Indian, and southeast Asian community, Pinellas Park is home to one of the largest concentrations of ethnic restaurants, businesses, and specialty vendors serving those communities in the southeast. The city's library maintains the county's only special collection of materials in Vietnamese. The population includes those with recent ancestors from Germany, Poland, Eastern Europe, Russia, Armenia, India, Lebanon, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.

The Pinellas Park Chamber of Commerce promotes the interests of local and nearby businesses, contributing to the overall vitality and cooperative nature of the mid-county economy.

Government
Pinellas Park has a council-manager form of government. The current mayor is Sandra Bradbury, who is the daughter of former mayor Cecil Bradbury. The current city manager is Bart Diebold. Various volunteer citizen boards are appointed by the city council to advise the council on governmental matters. The city council itself consists of four board members.

Police and Fire Departments
Pinellas Park's original police department was founded on May 27, 1915, with its only member being the appointed Marshal George W. Williams Sr. The modern Police Force was established in 1948. Today, the city maintains a Police Department of more than 150 employees. In 2023, Police Chief Adam Geissenberger assumed the role of police chief following the retirement on Police Chief Mike Haworth. In 2015, Mike Haworth assumed the position previously held by Dorene Thomas, the first female police chief in the county. The city announced in its 2020 budget that it will begin work on a $25 million construction project of a new Police and Fire Operations Center.

The Fire Department was established in 1912, when the city had only 50 residents. It serves the city and the surrounding areas. In 2017, the city paid $915,000 for the site of a former church with the intention of building a new fire station. The city has announced construction of the new station will cost approximately $4.7 million. The Fire Department is led by Fire Chief Brett Schlatterer.

Youth Programs
The Police Department facilitates the Police Cadets, a youth education and service group. Likewise, the Fire Department facilitates the Fire Explorers. Youth in both programs are involved in community service as well as competitions among similar groups.

Education
The city is served by the Pinellas County Schools district. Most of the city's high school students attend Pinellas Park High School or Dixie M. Hollins High School.

The Caruth Health Education Center is home to the healthcare-related degree programs of St. Petersburg College. It includes a simulation hospital unit for its nursing program, a patient-care clinic of dental hygiene, and an orthotics and prosthetics lab space.

Library
Madalya Fagan was the first president of the library association, and through the efforts of this volunteer organization, the Pinellas Park Public Library was established in December 1948. Fifteen years later, the city of Pinellas Park took control over the library. Marjorie Trimble was the very first paid librarian, although it wouldn't be until 1967 when Ms. Harrop would be the first librarian who possessed a Master of Library Science degree to be hired. The first library building was located in Park Station, an old pump house in the middle of Triangle Park. The second library was then built at 5795 Park Boulevard, although that structure no longer stands. The current library was built in 1969, and is located at 7770 52nd St, across the street from City Hall and Pinellas Park Elementary School. The library was last remodeled in 2001 and has undergone several additions that expanded the original 7,000 square feet interior into 30,972 square feet, which includes over 26 adult desktop computers, 11 children desktop computers, a teen lounge, a quiet room, and two meeting rooms for rentals and programs. On June 6, 2014, the library was renamed in honor of late director Barbara S. Ponce. Mrs. Ponce was promoted to community activities administrator and library director in 1999, and retired in 2008. The job placed her over the Pinellas Park Library, parks and recreation, and media/public events.

Collection
The library houses a collection of over 100,000 physical items, including books, audio books, newspapers, magazines, DVD's, and Blu-ray discs available for holders of Pinellas Public Library Cooperative-issued library cards to check out. E-books and other digital services are also available. Special collections include an Asian Language Collection with materials in Hindi, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, a Spanish Collection, and an extensive collection of graphic novels and Manga.

Programs
The Barbara S. Ponce Public Library hosts programs for community residents with many designed for children and teens. These programs include many art, music, and literature related educational programs as well as chess clubs, board game events, and programs to tutor schoolchildren with homework help.

Adult programming consists of monthly craft nights, an adult coloring club, free movie screenings, murder mystery nights, and technology classes. English as a Second Language (E.S.O.L.), American Sign Language, Origami, and Ukulele classes are also hosted by members of the community in conjunction with the library.

Transportation
Pinellas Park is served by major roads such as U.S. Route 19, Florida State Road 693, Florida State Road 694, and is served by an exit off I-275. Mass Transit through Pinellas Park is provided by Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA).

While the Clearwater Subdivision railroad line runs through Pinellas Park, the city contains no stops on the line.

Nearby Tampa International Airport provides air transportation for most passengers. Smaller airlines, with destinations to smaller cities and towns, operate at St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, with most tenants providing only seasonal services.

Notable people

 * Nick Andries, racing driver
 * Mike Cope, NASCAR driver
 * Jesse Litsch, former MLB pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays
 * Browning Nagle, former NFL football player
 * Stephen Nasse, racing driver
 * Terri Schiavo, resident at a hospice during the case surrounding her end-of-life case
 * Melissa Ann Shepard, Canadian-born criminal
 * Roy Smith former MLB pitcher for the Cleveland Indians
 * Rachel Wade, an American woman who was convicted of murder in the second degree in the murder of Sarah Ludemann
 * Fez Whatley, radio personality

title: Pinellas Park, Florida


text:
Redington Beach, Florida

Redington Beach is a town in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, more commonly called the Tampa Bay Area. The population was 1,376 at the 2020 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Redington Beach is located at 27.81167°N, -82.81167°W (27.811669, –82.811546).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.3 sqmi, of which 0.4 sqmi is land and 0.9 sqmi (71.54%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Redington Beach has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,376 people, 620 households, and 402 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,427 people, 618 households, and 417 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,539 people, 724 households, and 464 families residing in the town. The population density was 4,228.5 PD/sqmi. There were 987 housing units at an average density of 2,711.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.14% White, 0.45% African American, 0.13% Native American, 1.43% Asian, and 0.84% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.92% of the population.

In 2000, there were 724 households, out of which 16.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.3% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 26.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.54.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 14.0% under the age of 18, 3.5% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 35.3% from 45 to 64, and 24.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.1 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $54,830, and the median income for a family was $60,795. Males had a median income of $45,921 versus $27,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $38,265. About 4.1% of families and 5.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.1% of those under age 18 and 8.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
All public schools are served by the Pinellas County Schools district.

Library
The community is served by the Gulf Beaches Public Library, located in nearby Madeira Beach. The library is supported by Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, and Treasure Island. These five communities have combined their resources in order to fund the library, which they would not be able to maintain individually.

Notable people

 * Pete Anderson, professional skimboarder
 * Thomas L. Holling, former Mayor of Buffalo, New York
 * John J. Savage, former Florida politician

title: Redington Beach, Florida


text:
Redington Shores, Florida

Redington Shores is a town in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. The county is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, more commonly known as the Tampa Bay Area. The population was 2,176 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Redington Shores is located at 27.82806°N, -82.83056°W (27.827965, –82.830509).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.2 sqmi, of which 0.4 sqmi is land and 0.8 sqmi (67.50%) is water. According to Elevation Map Logs, the elevation of Redington Shores is just one meter above sea level.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Redington Shores has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

According to Weather Underground, the historical average day temperature is 79.7 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), with the high averaging around 88.3°F and the low being 71.9°F degrees. Redington Shores faces high wind speeds averaging around 9 miles per hour. The close proximity to the ocean brings a recurring ocean breeze that cools the beach area.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,176 people, 1,138 households, and 564 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 2,121 people, 1,037 households, and 518 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,338 people, 1,292 households, and 658 families residing in the town. The population density was 5,955.4 PD/sqmi. There were 2,101 housing units at an average density of 5,351.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.60% White, 0.21% African American, 0.47% Native American, 0.47% Asian, 0.30% from other races, and 0.94% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.95% of the population.

In 2000, there were 1,292 households, out of which 8.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 49.0% were non-families. 41.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.81 and the average family size was 2.38.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 9.2% under the age of 18, 3.1% from 18 to 24, 19.7% from 25 to 44, 34.0% from 45 to 64, and 34.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 55 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.6 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $40,411, and the median income for a family was $49,300. Males had a median income of $36,719 versus $30,662 for females. The per capita income for the town was $31,822. About 5.5% of families and 8.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.6% of those under age 18 and 8.3% of those age 65 or over.

Ecology
Redington Shores is home to numerous plants and organisms which thrive around the beach and ocean. Plants on the beach include mangroves, sea oats, and sea grapes. All of these organisms prevent erosion on the dunes and are essential to organisms around them. The mangroves are protected due to the State's “Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act.” A population of coyotes and loggerhead turtles can be found in Redington Shores.

Karenia brevis, red tide, causes problems in the ocean at Redington Shores. An increase of this organism in the ocean causes harm to organisms around it. Due to the high concentration of K. brevis in the Gulf of Mexico, Redington Shores faces problems with deadly impacts on marine life.

Library
The community is served by the Gulf Beaches Public Library, located in nearby Madeira Beach. The library is supported by Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, and Treasure Island. These five communities have combined their resources in order to fund the library.

title: Redington Shores, Florida


text:
Ridgecrest, Florida

Ridgecrest is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,558 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Ridgecrest is located at 27.89583°N, -82.80472°W (27.895767, -82.804786).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 1.5 km$2$ (0.6 mi2), of which 1.5 km$2$ (0.6 mi2) is land and 1.75% is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,453 people, 781 households, and 623 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,691.3/km$2$ (4,354.6/mi2). There were 862 housing units at an average density of 594.3/km$2$ (1,530.2/mi2). The racial makeup of the CDP was 16.23% White, 80.64% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 0.98% from other races, and 1.92% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.18% of the population.

There were 781 households, out of which 39.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 32.5% were married couples living together, 41.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.2% were non-families. 15.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.13 and the average family size was 3.51.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 36.9% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 24.8% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 9.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 29 years. For every 100 females, there were 80.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 69.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $32,535, and the median income for a family was $26,591. Males had a median income of $26,850 versus $20,664 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $13,290. About 20.1% of families and 22.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.4% of those under age 18 and 11.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: Ridgecrest, Florida