Tag: Tampa Bay
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The fate of a proposed mixed-use development in downtown Largo remains in limbo after the City Commission voted to deny an amendment to the project’s development agreement. In August, the Largo Planning Board unanimously approved an amendment that would have increased the residential units to 284 and reduced the required parking to a single garage.…
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The nationally-acclaimed Country Thunder music festival is making its Tampa debut in 2025, and on Tuesday night, organizers revealed the highly-anticipated artist lineup. For the first time, Country Thunder Florida will hit the stage at Raymond James Stadium from May 2-4, 2025. After years in Kissimmee, event organizers promise that Tampa will offer “an even…
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Today, Hillsborough County leaders are set to discuss dedicating additional funding to support recovery efforts following the recent back-to-back hurricanes. A proposed $5.6 million would come from the Hope Affordable Housing Fund, which typically provides local public funds to create, preserve, and improve affordable housing. This allocation would be especially helpful for mobile homeowners, who…
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A tropical disturbance, Invest 99L, is on the verge of becoming Tropical Storm or Hurricane Sara and could impact Florida’s West Coast next week, according to forecasters. Tropical Storm Sara “could form at any time” in the Caribbean Sea, shared ABC Action News Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips in a Wednesday morning update. Florida, already battered…
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Over a month has passed since Hurricane Milton struck the Tampa Bay area, marking the third significant storm to hit this season. Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton all left their mark on the coastline, leading to substantial damage and cleanup costs for St. Petersburg. The city views the St. Pete Pier as its “front porch,”…
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It’s been 48 days since Hurricane Helene swept through Tampa Bay, leaving widespread and severe damage. For residents in Indian Rocks Beach, that’s also how long they’ve been unable to return to their homes as they await necessary paperwork to start repairs. Lori Hurley, a resident of E. Gulf Boulevard, felt the absence of her…
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The Tampa Bay Rays may open the 2026 season at Tropicana Field if St. Petersburg city officials commit over $55 million to repair the stadium damaged by a recent storm. A 412-page report obtained by the Catalyst outlines $55.275 million in necessary repairs. These estimates do not include all expenses or the $6.5 million that…
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Many Hillsborough County communities are still recovering from significant storm damage after back-to-back hurricanes. Now, local neighborhoods have a chance to revitalize and beautify their outdoor spaces with the help of neighborhood mini-grants offered by Hillsborough County. These grants open doors for communities to restore and enhance their outdoor areas, damaged by recent storms. Resident…
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St. Pete Parks and Recreation is excited to present the “Holiday Movies in the Park” event series, part of the “Holidays in the Sunshine City” celebration. This free, family-friendly entertainment series offers a cozy outdoor movie experience and a festive kickoff to the holiday season. Each movie night begins with delightful activities before the main…
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Hurricanes Helene and Milton inflicted so much damage that Madeira Beach Mayor Anne-Marie Brooks is concerned about the future of the city’s roughly 4,000 full-time residents, as many struggle to afford the cost of rebuilding. “The impact on our city is immense,” Mayor Brooks told 10 Tampa Bay. “It’s clear Madeira Beach will never look…
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Forecasters report that an area in the central Caribbean Sea is likely to develop into Tropical Storm Sara, coinciding with an expected cold front arriving in Florida mid-week. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) stated that the tropical wave, currently producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms, has an 80% chance of developing into a tropical depression or…
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The city of St. Petersburg is considering expanding its residential parking permit program beyond the current downtown core area to address growing parking issues in other neighborhoods. The city’s transportation and parking management director, Evan Mory, noted that the regulations have seen little update since the program launched in 1992. Councilmember Lisset Hanewicz requested the…
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The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that gas prices in Florida are trending lower after a 15-cent increase. Last week, Florida’s average gas price nearly fell below the $3 per gallon mark, according to a new AAA report. The average dropped to $3.01 per gallon last Monday before rising by an average of 14 cents.…
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St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway shared a mix of good and bad news with city council members during a recent quarterly crime update. From July 1 through September 30, criminal offenses decreased by 4.8%. Over the past five years, crime has dropped by 7.1%. However, homicides have risen by 30% year over year, increasing…
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With hurricanes becoming a frequent reality for Tampa Bay, homeowners are increasingly focused on safeguarding their properties from the destructive ravages of storm surge, flooding, downed trees, and property and water damage. Living here means enjoying beautiful beaches, vibrant communities, and sunny weather—but it also entails preparing for the powerful hurricanes that can strike at…
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The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reported Friday that while sea turtle nests increased along a 21-mile stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast, a series of hurricanes devastated many of them. This year, aquarium teams documented 271 nests—an increase from last year’s 227—though many were ultimately washed out by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. Sea turtle nesting season…
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As Thanksgiving approaches, secure your holiday plans now with these dining and takeout options across Tampa Bay. Note: Reservations and preorders are filling quickly for these restaurants. Dine-In Reservations Juno & the Peacock (St. Petersburg) Flor Fina (Hotel Haya, Ybor City) Bern’s Steak House (South Tampa) Take-Home Feast Options Rooster & the Till Naked Farmer…
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Treasure Island residents eager to rebuild their storm-damaged homes are facing significant delays due to a backlog of city permits. Without these permits, many contractors are unable to start reconstruction, leaving residents frustrated. Some have attributed the delays to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of clear communication from City Hall. At a recent meeting, frustrated homeowners…
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Hurricane Milton inflicted damage on nearly 16,000 homes in St. Petersburg, leaving residents with a complex and potentially costly rebuilding process. City officials are working diligently to assist storm victims and prevent them from having to decide between moving, elevating their homes, or undoing completed work. Floodplain manager Hannah Rebholz provided important clarifications for city…
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The real estate development firm behind St. Petersburg’s tallest tower has agreed to reimburse the city for all expenses incurred after Hurricane Milton sent a construction crane crashing into a nearby office building. The subcontractor responsible for the 500-foot tower crane may also face daily fines of $1,500 if they fail to reopen nearby roads…
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Members of the St. Petersburg City Council learned Thursday about the damage Hurricane Milton caused to the St. Pete Pier. There was both good news and bad news. Chris Ballestra, the City’s Managing Director of Development, reported that the Glazer Family Playground was completely submerged by Hurricane Milton’s heavy rain, following Hurricane Helene’s storm surge.…
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The Coffee Pot Riviera NE home of Kenny Wilson, former CEO of Jabil, a $14 billion global electronics manufacturer, has hit the market for $4.95 million. Built in 1996, the home was listed last month with Wilson described as a “Motivated Seller.” Wilson, who joined Jabil nearly 20 years ago, was appointed CEO in 2022…
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“The Stage is Set” for the 90th Florida Strawberry Festival, taking place in 2025. The beloved 11-day event, famous for its food, fun, entertainment, and strawberries, unveiled its entertainment lineup on Friday. “For decades, the Strawberry Festival has honored our traditions while continually bringing fresh, exciting experiences to our guests,” Festival President Kyle Robinson said…
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Einstein Bros. Bagels and Rita’s Italian Ice are set to open new storefronts along St. Petersburg’s bustling 66th Street corridor. Einstein Bros. Bagels will be located at 2216 66th Street North in an outparcel retail strip outside the Tyrone Square Mall. Across the street, Rita’s Italian Ice will open at 2141 66th Street North in…
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A heavily trafficked section of downtown St. Petersburg’s sidewalk and seawall was left dangerously compromised after Hurricane Milton. The area has posed a public safety hazard for nearly a month. On Thursday, the city council approved a $3.48 million proposal to replace the waterfront infrastructure. However, the Vinoy Yacht Basin’s sidewalk and seawall will remain…
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Happy holidays, Pinellas County! This season, Largo Central Park transforms into a festive wonderland with the return of the Holiday Lights and Carnival Rides celebration from November 28 to December 29. Presented by the City of Largo, this free event features over 2.5 million LED lights, creating a magical display perfect for a family-friendly night…
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More than 40 individuals faced over 50 charges in a two-day operation targeting unlicensed contractors working in beach areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Dubbed “Flood of Fraud 2,” the operation took place from Tuesday to Thursday on Clearwater Beach. “Our primary focus is on protecting residents…
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Tampa’s beloved holiday event, “Christmas in the Wild,” is set to return to ZooTampa at Lowry Park on November 29th, offering families an enchanting way to celebrate the season. Nominated by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Zoo Lights, this unique 16-night event is filled with festivities, dazzling displays, and cherished holiday…
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After a major disaster, property owners often rush to repair and rebuild, driven by an urgent need to restore their homes and businesses. However, FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, issues stop work orders to pause certain reconstruction projects, ensuring that all rebuilding efforts meet safety and regulatory standards. But how often are these stop…
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Tampa will host its third-ever Red Bull Flugtag this Saturday, where fans can watch teams attempt flight in homemade aircraft from noon to 5 p.m. outside the Tampa Convention Center. City officials expect around 80,000 spectators to attend, so arriving early is encouraged. Road closures will begin at 8 a.m., impacting areas along Bayshore Boulevard…
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The Savannah Bananas are bringing their famous baseball antics to the Bay Area, despite damage from Hurricane Milton that affected Tropicana Field. Known for their entertaining stunts and unique on-field performances, the Bananas will now play at Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Originally set for March…
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As Hurricane Rafael moves westward into the Gulf of Mexico after sweeping across Cuba as a Category 3 storm, Florida’s Gulf Coast is expected to experience coastal flooding, rip currents, and minor impacts, forecasters report. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) notes that Rafael caused widespread power outages, downed trees, and infrastructure damage in Cuba before…
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Hurricanes Helene and Milton left many Pinellas County residents in need. So, the city of St. Petersburg is ramping up efforts to provide critical recovery resources to residents. The city has organized two upcoming events to guide residents through the permitting process, available financial aid, and strategies for building future disaster resilience. Virtual Session on…
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Most of Madeira Beach’s city commissioners endured significant personal losses when Hurricane Helene’s record-breaking storm surge flooded Pinellas County. This week, they shared their powerful stories of resilience and commitment to the community. “We’re strong, we’re resilient, and we will rebuild,” said District 3 Commissioner Eddie McGeehan, 55, told Bay News 9. McGeehan lost his…
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There’s no denying Pinellas County has a traffic problem – a big traffic problem. As more and more people move into the state, the number of vehicles on the road continues to rise. And that presents many problems, not the least of which are auto collisions – with the number of incidents steadily rising. One…
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The Florida Aquarium in Clearwater is honoring veterans and active-duty military this Veterans Day by offering free admission from Friday, November 8th through Monday, November 11th. The free admission is available to any active-duty, veteran, retired, or honorably/medically discharged service member, including drilling reservists and National Guardsmen. A valid U.S. Military ID or DD Form…
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After almost 10 years of serving raw oysters and crab legs in downtown St. Petersburg, the beloved seafood restaurant Sea Salt will be closing its doors. The restaurant’s parent company, Aielli Group, announced in a press release on Tuesday that the lease on the second floor of The Sundial is coming to an end. “The…
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Residents of the Gulf Harbors neighborhood in Pasco County, Florida are struggling to repair their flood-damaged homes due to lengthy delays in obtaining building permits from the county. Chad Karr and his wife are currently living in a rented camper with their two dogs after their home took on nearly a foot of water during…
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Hurricane Rafael has intensified into a Category 3 hurricane as it approaches Cuba, expected to track into the Gulf of Mexico. As of this afternoon, Rafael was positioned at 22.0N, 82.3W, with sustained winds reaching 115 mph and a northwest movement at 14 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports that Rafael will bring intense…
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In St. Pete Beach, the path to recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton has been slow and difficult. Sandy streets and debris-covered lawns are daily reminders of the storms, while residents struggle with lengthy insurance claims and rebuilding efforts. One such resident is Reza Razavi, who owns several waterfront properties, all damaged by Hurricane Milton.…
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A Tampa resident has won a $1 million prize from the Florida Lottery’s 300x The Cash scratch-off game. Donald Geisler, age 66, claimed the prize at the lottery’s Tampa District Office, where he chose to receive a one-time, lump-sum payment of $695,500. Geisler’s winning ticket was purchased at the Harney Food Store, located at 6901…
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