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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.
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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Tampa Police arrested a 15-year-old female student, Anabella Fuentes, for possessing a loaded handgun at Middleton High School on March 13, 2025. The incident was reported by a vigilant student, prompting a swift response from the School Resource Officer. Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized the importance of safety on school campuses and commended the collaborative efforts that led to the quick resolution.
The Internal Audit Department of Tampa has released Audit 25-08, focusing on the operations of the Water Credit, Collections, and Call Center. This review aims to enhance consumer services, allowing customers to contact the Distribution and Consumer Services Division for utility assistance. The full audit report is available on the official Tampa government website.