Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Controversy Surrounds Children's Book "The Artivist" in Pinellas Schools

The article discusses a controversy in Pinellas County regarding the children's book 'The Artivist,' which addresses political themes like police violence and voting rights. Some parents are calling for its removal from elementary school libraries, claiming it is too political for young children, while others advocate for its inclusion as a vital resource for fostering activism.

Central High School Student Arrested for Online Threats

A student at Central High School in Brooksville, Florida, was arrested for making an online threat to 'shoot up' the school via an Instagram post, which he claimed was intended as a joke. He now faces serious charges.

False threats cost Florida schools millions

The article highlights the financial burden of false threats to schools in Florida, revealing approximately $65 million in response costs and $8 million in lost instructional time due to swatting incidents last year. It underscores the seriousness of these threats and their implications for mental health and safety in educational settings.

Pinellas County Local News and Weather Updates

The article provides a weather forecast for Tampa Bay, indicating a sunny and cool afternoon. It includes updates on local holiday events and D-SNAP registration in Tampa.

Hurricane Recovery and Resiliency Efforts for St. Petersburg

The article outlines St. Petersburg city leaders' preparations for the 2025 legislative session, focusing on hurricane recovery and resiliency. Key proposals include ongoing funding for the Resilient Florida Grant program, initiatives for affordable housing, and investments in local economies affected by hurricanes.

Need something from Marco Rubio? You’ll be directed to Rick Scott.

President-elect Donald Trump's nomination of Sen. Marco Rubio as secretary of state has resulted in his Senate office temporarily ceasing to handle new constituent services. Floridians are now directed to reach out to Sen. Rick Scott or their local U.S. Representatives for assistance with federal issues.

Body recovered from lake at Vinoy Golf Club, St. Petersburg police say

St. Petersburg police have recovered the body of a 72-year-old man from a lake at Vinoy Golf Club, with the death deemed suspicious by investigators. The incident, reported on Wednesday morning, has prompted further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man's death. Updates will follow as the investigation develops.

UnitedHealthcare CEO killed in ‘targeted shooting’ outside NY hotel, officials say

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel in what authorities describe as a targeted attack. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning as Thompson was preparing to address investors at a conference, prompting an ongoing search for the shooter.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Remove Auxiliary Pumps from Lake Bonny After Hurricane Milton Flooding

The article discusses the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' removal of auxiliary pumps from Lake Bonny, which were used to manage flooding after Hurricane Milton. Local resident Laymon Hackney expresses relief that the flooding has subsided but highlights ongoing cleanup efforts and the need for improved communication from authorities regarding flood management.

Trump claims he pulled plug on Hillsborough sheriff’s nomination for DEA administrator

President-elect Donald Trump claimed he was responsible for pulling Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister's nomination for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) administrator, contrary to Chronister's own reported decision to withdraw. In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized media coverage of the situation and shared his reasons, though specifics were not provided. Chronister's spokesperson reaffirmed the sheriff's stance on his withdrawal.

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