Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

Another Way to Replenish Tampas Tree Canopy

The City of Tampa has partnered with Suncoast Credit Union and Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful to launch the “Plant Your Heart Out” initiative aimed at restoring the city's tree canopy impacted by recent hurricanes. With an initial donation of $50,000 from Suncoast Credit Union, the program will encourage residents to plant trees on private properties, focusing on resilient species that provide environmental benefits. Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of this effort for the community's health and sustainability.

Tampa CRA Board Unanimously Selects Cedric McCray as New CRA Director

The Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board has unanimously appointed Cedric McCray as the new CRA Director, following his successful tenure as interim director. McCray brings valuable experience from his previous role leading the East Tampa CRA, where he implemented various community development initiatives. His leadership is expected to drive forward the CRA's mission to enhance the quality of life in Tampa.

Tampa Bay Leads as Top Convention Destination in Hotel Occupancy

The Tampa Convention Center is driving record hotel revenue in Hillsborough County, with January 2025 seeing an 18.9% increase in taxable tourism revenue compared to the previous year. The county's hotel occupancy rate reached 80.3%, positioning Tampa Bay as the leading destination for leisure and convention travel. Visit Tampa Bay attributes this success to the collaborative efforts of local businesses and officials.

Employee Accused of Stealing Funds From Local Bakery Charged With 51 Felonies

Rosa Harwell, a 47-year-old employee of a local bakery in Tampa, has been charged with 51 felonies for allegedly stealing over $70,000 during her employment. The theft was discovered through an internal audit that revealed a pattern of fraudulent transactions coinciding with her shifts. Harwell has since turned herself in and faces serious legal consequences.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor reflects on COVID pandemic anniversary

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor reflects on the five-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing no regrets over her decisions, including mask and vaccine mandates. She emphasizes the importance of swift action during the crisis, highlighting the establishment of one of the first vaccine sites for underserved communities. Castor also discusses her successful Lift Up Local economic recovery plan, which continues to benefit the city.

Measles cases rise to about 320 total in Texas and New Mexico. Here's what you should know

Measles cases have surged to approximately 320 in Texas and New Mexico, with two unvaccinated individuals dying from related complications. Health officials in both states reported new infections, emphasizing the importance of the MMR vaccine to combat the outbreak. The situation is further complicated by probable cases emerging in Oklahoma, highlighting a broader public health concern.

Lakeland Regional Health opens first freestanding emergency department

Lakeland Regional Health has opened its first freestanding emergency department in South Lakeland, aiming to improve access to emergency services for the growing population of Polk County. The new facility features 20 additional beds, three triage rooms, and offers 24-hour pediatric care, lab results, CT scans, and X-rays. This development is expected to alleviate the workload at the main emergency room, enhancing community healthcare services.

Gov. DeSantis awards 2 million for infrastructure improvements at SeaPort Manatee

Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a $2 million grant for infrastructure improvements at SeaPort Manatee, aimed at enhancing the port's capacity and efficiency. The funding will support projects like the repaving of South Dock Street and is expected to create approximately 300 new jobs. This investment reflects the growing demand for port services on Florida's West Coast.

Violins of Hope Concert uses instruments from World War II

The Violins of Hope concert in St. Petersburg features Holocaust-era instruments played by members of The Florida Orchestra, offering a powerful musical tribute to the lives affected by the Holocaust. The concert aims to connect the audience with the emotional and historical significance of the instruments, which have traveled globally for performances. Cellist Yoni Draiblate emphasizes the healing power of music in conveying these stories.

Downtown Tampa will be Shamrockin' Weekend Traffic Advisory

The article provides a traffic advisory for the upcoming St. Patrick's Day festivities in downtown Tampa, scheduled for March 15, 2025. It highlights expected crowds, road closures, and alternative transportation options to help attendees navigate the busy weekend. The piece also emphasizes the significance of planning ahead to avoid congestion during the celebrations.