If you have fond memories of walks across the Friendship Trail Bridge, and wish they could do something besides take the aging bridge down, there might still be hope. A new group believes that the Friendship Trail Bridge can be saved. What’s their plan? To take down the at-risk sections of the bridge and replace them with lower-cost, lighter, precast steel that could be placed right on top of the supports that are still in good shape. Then what? How about creating a number of areas, like gardens, a place for local talent to perform, the very necessary shaded seating and more. If you like to bike, or just enjoy a walk and a sunset, that too. The bridge is so close to me here at The Dove, and I’d love to see it happen. As they say…stay tuned.

  A big part of my weekend will be acting as guest emcee at Pet Pal Animal Shelter’s 10th Annual Puppy Love Event, their largest fundraiser of the year.  Puppy Love is this Saturday, May 12th from 6:30pm – 10:30pm at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront. It’s a fun evening with dinner, dancing, live entertainment and live and silent auctions.  Last year, they raised $50,000 for their Emergency Animal Medical Fund. This year, our goal is to double the amount! But I need you there to help me do that. Tickets are $60 in advance ($550 for a table for 10) or $70 at the door. They can be purchased by calling Pet Pal Animal Shelter at (727)328-7738 at www.petpalanimalshelter.com. Have something you'd like to tell me about, something on your mind? Send your emails directly to me ann.kelly@coxmg.com.