Florida’s insurance market; whale songs; My Favorite Florida

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Friday, May 29, 2026

 
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Good Friday morning. It'll be cloudy with a high of 92.

In today’s edition, read about St. Petersburg’s election season; the songs of an ultrarare whale; and why this year’s hurricane season forecast could be good news for Florida's property insurance market.

[Courtesy of Melissa Santell, FoodxFeels]

Pinellas County restaurants snubbed by Michelin again, Tampa loses a star

Pinellas County restaurants are still holding out for a Michelin star. 

For the second year in a row, no eateries in the entire Pinellas region received a coveted Michelin star rating during the guide’s annual star reveal on Thursday. 

There was a fresh batch of recommendations for local restaurants, but no stars nor Bib Gourmands were doled out to restaurants across the bay. 

Read more about which local dining spots landed "recommended" status — plus which spot in Tampa lost its star.

Looking for a list of every Tampa Bay restaurant with a Michelin designation? We made one — and broke down what each distinction even means.

 
 

AROUND THE BAY

Last day lessons: Pasco superintendent John Legg challenged teachers to create lessons to keep students engaged until the school year ends. Here's what three teachers came up with.

UnitedHealthcare and BayCare have two days left to agree to a new contract. As the deadline approaches, both parties say they remain hopeful a contract will be reached, but patients fear disruptions to care. Here's what you should know.

Hearing aids and singing birthday cards: As part of an effort to divert batteries away from trucks and landfills, Pinellas County has made a list of rechargeable devices that shouldn’t be thrown in the trash.

For one of the rarest whales: A marine biology professor intended to spark a niche scientific debate. Instead, his research was used by politicians to undermine protections.

Tech CEO indicted: The founder of a Tampa-based oil and gas technology startup is facing federal wire fraud charges. Meade Lewis is accused of bilking investors in mIQroTech of more than $7 million. 

Background check: Legal experts say an HCA Florida West Largo nursing technician who was arrested weeks ago on sexual battery charges should never have been hired at the hospital.

My Favorite Florida: Writer-director Laura Chinn grew to love Dunedin, describing the city as “heaven on Earth.”

Vacation magic