Fiber-optic internet provider launches $50 million local network

A Jacksonville-based high-speed internet provider plans to establish a local underground network and open an office in St. Petersburg this year.

IQ Fiber believes it can help customers throughout Pinellas County avoid internet outages during storms. The company will initially spend about $50 million to launch its 10-gigabyte-capable network in the area and create 35 new jobs.

Ideal Nutrition to open downtown St. Pete storefront	Sarasota jazz vocalist Synia Carroll dies
What is the Gas Plant site worth to St. Pete?	Vintage St. Pete: The Treasure Island Bridge ladies

Jon Lovitz at the Capitol – yeah, that’s the ticket

His biggest claim to fame – the thing that most people likely recognize Jon Lovitz from – is Saturday Night Live, for which he created numerous memorable characters during his five season (1985-90) run as a cast member. He was the pathological liar (“Yeah … that’s the ticket”); Annoying Man; Master Thespian; the hapless demon Mephistopheles; and Mr. Potter in the classic sketch It’s a Wonderful Life - The Lost Ending. Among many others.

He appeared in the big 50th anniversary gala last month (he remains close friends with producer Lorne Michaels).

	Ministry of Ink opens first U.S. location in St. Pete
	Pet-focused festival will offer training demonstrations
	Rowdies open season with two scoreless losses