What We Learned on Patch This Week

Who Will Handle Gulfport's Police Dispatch?: In the debate over Gulfport dispatch services, it may seem a decision has been made. All talk has been of the Pinellas County Sheriff Office. However, according to Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent, St. Petersburg Police may offer another option.

Photo Gallery: Tangerine Blues Fest: More than 8,000 people filled the Tangerine Greenway on Saturday, Sept. 24 for the 4th Annual Tangerine Blues Fest. Check out some of our photos of the event. Took some of your own? Share them on this photo gallery.

St. Pete Beach Connector Trolley Ends Today: The connector trolley's grant expired on Friday, Sept. 30, 2011, and the city cannot afford to take on the cost. It was the last day on the job for five part time drivers and the last day for Gulfport riders heading to and from St. Pete Beach on the trolley.

Man Rescued From Bear Creek: A confused and disoriented 53-year-old man was pulled from Bear Creek about 7:15 Tuesday morning.

Local Leaders Object to Pinellas Development Plan: In a marathon session that lasted late into the night, commissioners approved water rate increases and changes to district boundaries, but a land development proposal saw plenty of opposition.

Storming Into Reading at Bay Point Elementary School: Tuesday morning a Star Wars Stormtrooper greeted children coming to school as a part of the school book fair's "reading is out of this world" theme.

Giving Back in Gulfport: Doris Love: Every week Giving Back in Gulfport will introduce you to a volunteer in the community. Follow along as we find out what inspires volunteers to help.

Living Well: Pack a Healthy and Fun School Lunch: Read along as we offer a few tips on how your child's lunch sack can be crammed with healthy and tasty food choices. Why not offer your ideas for a healthy sack lunch?

Skin Care Using Fresh Fruits and Herbs: These local fruits and herbs make a great addition to homemade soap and beauty products.

Kingfish Making Early Fall Run: Kingfish already have been scattered through the Tampa Bay area, and this weekend's cold front could officially trigger the fall run of the king smoker.

How to Make a Good Chicken Stock: Learn how to make your own stock and not only will you save money, but your dishes will taste better and you'll have control over what ingredients go into your stock.

Two Dogs Have An Angel Looking After Them: Julio and Mo were left at the barn to fend for themselves, until Penny came along.

Caregiving Job Changes Opera Singer's Life: So you want to help people for a living? Here's one caregiver's story and some resources to get you started.