Florida's Arbor Day celebration includes "Tree Quest," a Hillsborough County event combining education with recreation.

Clearwater hosted a unique 5K race where participants ran in duck-inspired costumes, with festivities around the World's Largest Rubber Duck. The city celebrated with family-friendly activities and promoted health and happiness.

Manatee County, Florida, held a successful inaugural Community Cleanup event, collecting over 107 tons of waste. Future cleanups are planned, with the next in April, and efforts to improve logistics are underway.

Charlotte County Fire Station 9 now accepts medical sharps for safe disposal, offering a convenient and responsible option for residents in collaboration with community partners.

Marine deputies in Manatee County coordinated with Mote Marine Laboratory to rescue a shark entangled in fishing lines off a public beach. The successful effort highlighted the importance of quick response to save marine wildlife.

The Tampa Bay area will experience slightly cooler temperatures with a chance of rain and thunderstorms later in the week. A high rip current risk warning is also in effect.

A school bus aide is charged with child abuse for hitting a 9-year-old autistic student, as confirmed by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and video evidence.

The Tampa Police Department is implementing new technologies like real-time translation tools, virtual reality training, and a drone response program to improve safety and efficiency.

Charlotte County invites the public to visit the historic Cookie House, a remnant of the Bass Biological Laboratory, now located at Cedar Point Environmental Park to learn about Florida's marine research history.

The Tampa Convention Center expects a $149 million economic impact in 2026 from 101 events, with attendance also increasing. It received seven industry awards in 2025, enhancing its reputation. New public art installations will debut in 2026.

The Charlotte County Commission will host its Utilities Quarterly Update meeting on Jan. 13, discussing utilities, infrastructure, and the Burnt Store Reclamation Facility. Residents are invited to participate at the county center.

Port Charlotte has scheduled a public hearing on January 13 to discuss utility rate hikes. An earlier date error on bills was corrected, with further details available on the county website.

Hillsborough County encourages residents to adopt new year's resolutions such as volunteering, following watering guidelines, drinking tap water, and enjoying cultural experiences like the New Tampa Performing Arts Center.