Charlotte County invites the public to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting on January 7, 2026, discussing updates including hurricane response and the Senior Games.

The New Tampa Performing Arts Center offers a diverse January lineup, featuring cultural shows, jazz performances, inclusive dance, and a family-friendly musical.

Charlotte County has suspended parking fees at its beaches and boat ramps, removing economic barriers to access and encouraging outdoor activities. No timeline for fee reinstatement is provided.

Manatee County has set a hearing to discuss amendments to its HUD-funded plans, inviting public comment on changes aimed at helping low-income residents.

Firefighters in Progress Village, Hillsborough County, quickly contained a house fire early Monday morning with no injuries reported; cause under investigation.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office uses a Vacuum Metal Deposition Chamber with gold to develop fingerprints, particularly on porous surfaces and preserved DNA for testing.

Homeless woman, Kendall Wilson, was fatally hit by an SUV in Pinellas Park while crossing the street outside of a crosswalk; police cite no impairment or speed factors.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue quickly contained a residential fire on Fawn Dale Drive in Riverview with no injuries reported.

Volunteer Patrol from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office provided bikes to children whose home was destroyed by fire, emphasizing community care and support.

Tampa Police Department advises citizens on social media to break down boxes of expensive items before disposal to prevent theft during the holiday season.

A 13-year-old girl, Emony Nicole Jackson, was shot dead in Orange County, Florida on Christmas Day. The 15-year-old shooter, claiming it was an accident, faces manslaughter charges.

A bicyclist died in a traffic crash on Toucan Trail and Seaview Drive in Spring Hill, with the Hernando County Sheriff's Office responding and the Florida Highway Patrol investigating.

The Hernando County Board of Commissioners reported a data breach involving potential exposure of personal information and is offering credit monitoring services to affected residents.