Treasure Island "back to beach" event marks recovery from Helene, Milton

State of play: Following widespread flooding from Helene's record storm surge, beach access points and dozens of restaurants, shops and attractions have reopened along the barrier islands, most recently a portion of Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach.

• For some businesses, recovery has been slower or too much altogether. The beachside watering hole Caddy's Treasure Island remains "in bad shape" but will reopen soon with a tent and food truck, per a recent Facebook post.
• The owners of Woody's Waterfront in St. Pete Beach announced in January they were selling the beloved restaurant.

Zoom in: The "Sand & Kites & Coastal Delights" event takes place March 8-9 from 10am to 6pm and features live music, food trucks and local vendors.

• There will also be kite flying and a giant sand sculpture to symbolize Treasure Island's "recovery and renewal."

What they're saying: "The '&' in 'Sand & Kites & Coastal Delights' is more than just a symbol; it represents the essence of Treasure Island and Visit St. Pete Clearwater's theme: We are more than a beach," reads the press release.

• "The ampersand conveys the idea that our island is a place where the beach connects to so much more that makes our destination special," it adds.