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.

Want to lower your car insurance rates? Try these policy hacks

Car insurance rates in Florida are rising significantly, with many drivers facing premium increases of hundreds of dollars. This article explores potential policy hacks to help drivers lower their car insurance costs, offering practical advice and insights into the factors driving the increase.

New College of Florida offers course in ‘Woke’ movement

New College of Florida is set to offer a course on the 'Woke' movement in January 2025, marking a significant shift in its curriculum. The course, described as addressing the movement as "a kind of cult," comes after recent changes to the school's leadership aimed at steering it in a conservative direction. Led by comedian Andrew Doyle, the class is part of a broader statewide trend pushing back against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in education.

FAA bans American flights to Haiti for 30 days after Florida flight hit by gunfire

The FAA has announced a 30-day ban on American flights to Haiti following an incident where gangs shot at a Spirit Airlines flight, raising serious concerns about safety in the region. This decision comes as the United Nations plans to suspend flights, further restricting humanitarian aid and personnel access to Haiti. The situation highlights escalating violence and instability in the country.

Here’s how debris collection is going in Tampa

In the aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton, Tampa is facing a massive debris collection effort, with estimates of over a million cubic yards of waste remaining on city streets. City crews and contractors are working tirelessly to clear the debris within a 90-day window to ensure full reimbursement from FEMA, while challenges remain in coordinating the collection across various neighborhoods.

Caribbean Invest 99L could strengthen into Tropical Storm Sara and impact Florida

Caribbean Invest 99L is anticipated to strengthen into Tropical Storm Sara, posing a potential threat to Florida as the 2024 Hurricane Season approaches its final weeks. The article emphasizes the ongoing activity in the tropics, highlighting the need for vigilance among residents and local authorities.

Board selects Michael Stephens as next CEO for Tampa International Airport

The board of Tampa International Airport has selected Michael Stephens as the next CEO, succeeding current CEO Joe Lopano, who plans to retire in April 2025. The decision came after a competitive evaluation of finalists, including John Tiliacos, both of whom are current airport executives with significant experience.

Pinellas School Board honors former superintendent with building name

The Pinellas School Board has officially named a new leadership center in Largo after former superintendent Mike Grego, recognizing his contributions to enhancing educational leadership and improving high school graduation rates in the district. Alongside this honor, the board also named a new early learning and child care center after retired educator Bette Ra Ivey and designated a K-8 school merging two elementary schools in Largo as Walsingham Oaks K-8 School.

After Tampa Bay’s two hurricanes, uncertainty, trauma and one lost cat

After enduring two hurricanes, Tampa Bay residents face ongoing challenges in recovery, including significant home damage and the emotional toll of lost pets. Christine Geyer searches for her missing cat, Champy, while grappling with the destruction of her family's home. The article highlights the broader struggles of the community in the aftermath of an unprecedented hurricane season.

ZooTampa rescues 2-year-old manatee likely displaced by Hurricane Helene's storm surge

ZooTampa's Manatee Rescue Team successfully rescued a 2-year-old manatee believed to have been displaced by Hurricane Helene's storm surge. The rescue operation took place in Dixie County, showcasing ZooTampa's commitment to wildlife conservation. This incident highlights the impact of severe weather on local wildlife and emphasizes the importance of rescue efforts in the region.

Signs of progress: boat removal continues in Sarasota after Helene and Milton

Boat removal operations are ongoing in Sarasota, Florida, as crews work to clear vessels left scattered along the coastline due to Hurricane Helene and Milton. The article highlights the progress made in the cleanup effort, emphasizing the impact on the local community and environment.

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