UF's search advisory committee unanimously named Stuart R. Bell, the former University of Alabama president, as the sole finalist; trustees and the state Board of Governors must now confirm the pick.

A Journal of Nutrition study linked regular egg consumption in older adults to lower Alzheimer’s diagnoses, but researchers say the evidence is associative and more work is needed.

Veteran-owned Preez Distillery is pouring small-batch vodkas and seasonal liqueurs at a Largo tasting room. Tours and flights are available at the industrial-park location.

A Gulfport man was arrested May 18 and charged with second-degree murder after investigators reclassified an April death as suspicious.

Edgewood Properties’ leasing plan adds Fresh Kitchen, U‑Yee Sushi & Grill and Pure Green Juice Bar to the Marketplace at Heritage Harbour, expanding the plaza’s food lineup. No opening dates were listed in developer materials.

Cardinal Point's plan would replace the Ramada near Tampa International with 398 apartments, ground‑floor retail and a large parking garage.

FDOT has programmed $100 million toward widening and safety upgrades on Lithia Pinecrest Road after local advocacy from Commissioner Christine Miller. The funding advances design and phased work on a long‑debated corridor rebuild.

O-Ku, the modern Japanese concept from Indigo Road, opens next Thursday at Bayshore Gardens with sushi, sashimi and omakase.

Developers propose rebuilding storm‑damaged Blind Pass Marina with fewer slips and a large open‑air restaurant and live music on the St. Pete Beach waterfront.

Clear morning, low 70s. Highs near 93°F today; weekend afternoon storms become more likely. Drought continues across the region.

A Safety Harbor man who served as an IT director at Countryside Christian Academy was arrested and booked on nine counts of possession of child pornography; the school says it is cooperating.

Michelin‑recommended Supernatural Food & Wine will appear on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive‑Ins and Dives next Friday, and the team is hosting a downtown watch party.

A Palmetto man was charged after deputies say his 9‑year‑old found an unsecured handgun and a 5‑year‑old was shot and hospitalized.