Local art studio promotes mental wellbeing

Original reporting by Jayden Fernandez

Joe’s Art Time brings the community together and helps them heal through art.

Every week, Joe’s Art Time collaborates with The Portico, transforming the space into an open art studio for everyone.

“A lot of people don’t realize that it’s not just making art,” said Joseph Scarce, owner of Joe’s Art Time. “But helping people a lot of times with serious mental health challenges and PTSD and trauma and many of those other things.”

The studio provides free art supplies and even lets participants take some home with them. For some, the art studio has become a lifeline.

“I’m so happy to be here drawing some things and making some art and interacting with some young people. For me it’s a lifesaver,” said John Day, an art studio attendee.

The studio is open every Monday from noon to 2 p.m. For many residents, those two hours each week have been something to look forward to.

Tampa Riverwalk plans to extend

Original reporting by Jada Knobloch

The Tampa Riverwalk is set to receive a 56 million dollar expansion, adding 5.5 more miles to the popular stroll route in hopes of making Tampa a more walkable city. Approximately two miles will go along the West Bank and three miles will go around local neighborhoods.

Some business owners are excited for more foot traffic, but some residents are worried about their privacy.

Construction will begin on October 28 and the project is planned to be finished by 2027.

CREDITS:

Producer: Seth O’Neil

Anchors: Lia Marsee, Kieran Konopka

Reporters: Jayden Fernandez and Jada Knobloch

Floor Director: Gio Robinson-Santiago

Web Editor: Emma Brockman

CG: Jayden Fernandez

Tech Director: Eric Charpentier

Editor: Luana Schneider

Socials: Giovanna Chitto

Camera: Jada Knobloch

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Anderson

Graduate Assistant: Grace Ficara