Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Florida Democrats are claiming that the Senate seat currently held by Republican Rick Scott is competitive, despite a significant lack of financial backing from national Democratic organizations. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, the Democratic candidate, argues that recent issues like reproductive rights will energize voters, but Republicans maintain a substantial advertising advantage.
Tampa Police have charged Estaban Del Valle, a 35-year-old man, with making a written threat to conduct a mass shooting at Gorrie Elementary School following his child's suspension. The threat was reported promptly, leading to Del Valle's arrest. Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized that such threats will not be tolerated in the community.
Pinellas County officials are releasing 911 calls from Hurricane Idalia to raise awareness about the flooding dangers during hurricane season. The recordings aim to emphasize the importance of evacuation orders to protect residents from life-threatening situations. Emergency Management Director Cathie Perkins highlights the risks associated with flooding and the uncertainty of water levels.
A driver with a blood-alcohol level of .087, above New Jersey's legal limit, has been charged with the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while they were biking. The incident occurred just before the brothers were to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding. The suspect, Sean Higgins, has a history of road rage and has been ordered detained until trial.
Tropical Storm Gordon is being monitored by the National Hurricane Center as it develops in the Atlantic, with no immediate threat to Florida. The storm is expected to slightly strengthen before weakening, while other systems in the Caribbean and near the southeastern U.S. coast are also under observation.
U.S. stocks concluded their best week of the year, driven by a rally in major technology companies and growing anticipation of an interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve. The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average approached their all-time highs, buoyed by easing Treasury yields and optimism in the bond market.
An Uber driver, Steeve Louis, has been found guilty of three counts of sexual battery after assaulting a 20-year-old international student in August 2023. The jury's decision highlights the serious issue of safety for rideshare passengers, particularly vulnerable individuals such as international students.
A cracked sewer pipe in Pinellas County caused over 4 million gallons of raw sewage to spill into the neighborhood near 53rd Avenue North and 110th Street North, marking the third such incident since 2021. Residents, including Barry Medlock, reported significant flooding and sewage overflow, prompting county officials to respond with cleanup efforts. Improvements to the aging infrastructure are underway to prevent future spills.
Laura Loomer, a controversial figure in Florida politics known for her Islamophobic remarks, has recently been spotted as a travel companion of former President Donald Trump. Despite her divisive rhetoric and a history of failed political campaigns, Loomer's connection to Trump raises questions about her role in the current political landscape. The article explores her background and the implications of her association with Trump.
Pasco County's library system has removed 130 children's books featuring LGBTQ+ themes for review following a county commissioner's concerns about their appropriateness. This decision reflects a larger ongoing debate in Florida regarding the availability of such literature in public schools and libraries. The situation has drawn attention to the challenges faced by libraries amid political pressures and community responses.