St. Pete leaders address city's economic, pandemic losses St. Pete leaders unveiled a first look at how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting small businesses and jobs in St. Petersburg Wednesday during a State of St. Pete Economy virtual presentation. and last updated 2021-01-27 19:28:31-05 ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. â St. Pete leaders unveiled a first look at how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting small businesses and jobs in St. Petersburg Wednesday during a State of St. Pete Economy virtual presentation. Despite the pandemic's strain, St. Pete leaders say most businesses are finding ways to stay resilient. Vivia Grier, a local St. Pete artist who goes by Vivia Barron Folk Art, is in that boat. She says COVID-19 has put her passion and career in a tough spot.