Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

Tampa father sentenced to life in prison for shooting children, killing one of them

A Tampa father, Jermaine Bass, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the shooting deaths of his children, resulting in the death of his 5-year-old daughter and injury to his 8-year-old son. The jury found Bass guilty of first-degree murder and multiple counts of aggravated child abuse after a trial that revealed disturbing details of the crime. The children's mother expressed her grief and called for healing while questioning how such a tragedy could occur.

Hillsborough County's newest high school named after educational trailblazer in Wimauma

Aquilla J. Morgan High School, named after a pioneering African American educator, opens in Wimauma, highlighting the significant contributions of its namesake as the first African American employee at Wimauma Elementary in the 1960s. This development underscores the importance of recognizing educational trailblazers in the community.

DeSantis to outline legislative agenda in 2025 State of the State address

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is poised to deliver his annual State of the State address, outlining his legislative agenda for the upcoming session. With a focus on education, tax relief, and environmental protection, DeSantis aims to build on previous successes while addressing critical issues affecting the state. His proposed budget underscores a commitment to fiscal conservatism and significant investments in key initiatives.

Plant City Residents Hope for New Traffic Light on Busy Road

Residents of Plant City are advocating for the installation of a new traffic light at the intersection of Baker Street (U.S. 92) and Whitehurst Road, particularly as traffic surges during the Florida Strawberry Festival. This request highlights ongoing safety concerns at a busy intersection that becomes increasingly congested during local events.

Whos the owner behind Residences at 400 Central, the tallest residential building on Floridas Gulf Coast?

The Residences at 400 Central in St. Petersburg, Florida, is set to be the tallest residential building on the Gulf Coast, featuring 301 luxury condos and various commercial spaces. Owner John Catsimatidis emphasizes his centrist political views while expressing indifference to potential buyer reactions concerning his support for Donald Trump. The building is nearly sold out and aims to address local housing needs through affordable housing contributions.

Meet the Trailblazing Women in Tampa's Solid Waste Department

The City of Tampa honors the groundbreaking women in its solid waste department during Women's History Month, spotlighting their vital roles in an industry historically dominated by men. The article highlights the achievements of the "Fabulous Five," a group of dedicated women who are reshaping the landscape of solid waste management in Tampa.

Booster Issue Scrubs Eighth Flight Test of SpaceXs Starship

SpaceX's eighth test flight of the Starship was recently scrubbed due to a booster issue, leaving the next launch date uncertain. This event is significant for the aerospace community and highlights ongoing challenges in SpaceX's ambitious space exploration plans. Timely updates on such developments are crucial for local and global audiences invested in space exploration.

Lakeland commissioners vote unanimously to drop fluoride from drinking water

Lakeland, Florida, city commissioners unanimously voted to cease adding fluoride to the drinking water, following recommendations from Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, who cited potential negative impacts on children's IQ. Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorsing fluoridated water for its dental health benefits, growing concerns about fluoride's safety led to this decision, reflecting a broader trend of municipalities reconsidering water fluoridation.

Lakeland Commissioners Vote Unanimously to Drop Fluoride from Drinking Water

Lakeland commissioners have unanimously voted to cease the addition of fluoride to the city's drinking water, following recommendations from Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, who expressed concerns about fluoride's potential negative effects on children's health. This decision reflects ongoing debates over water fluoridation and public health policies in Florida, impacting local residents and their access to safe drinking water.

Lakeland Commissioners Vote Unanimously to Drop Fluoride from Drinking Water

The city of Lakeland has made a significant decision by voting unanimously to discontinue the addition of fluoride to its drinking water. Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo supports this move, citing concerns about the potential negative effects of fluoride on children's health. This decision reflects ongoing debates over public health and water safety in the community.