J's Asian Kitchen opened in February at 5229 N. Florida Ave, bringing ramen, pho and bubble tea to Seminole Heights' evening dining scene. The new spot leans on pan‑Asian comfort bowls and late‑night takeout hours.

FDLE arrested a 77-year-old St. Petersburg resident on 19 counts after tracing a torrent download to his IP; seized devices were later analyzed by forensic experts. The case is now with the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution.

Florida AG James Uthmeier gave Mayor Jane Castor until March 31 to reverse TPD policies he calls 'sanctuary' measures or face penalties including possible removal. The deadline escalates an unfolding statewide fight over local cooperation with ICE.

Two St. Petersburg men were arrested after an FDLE probe tied them to 150+ retail thefts across West Florida, costing stores about $370,000. Statewide prosecutors will handle the case.

Polk County deputies arrested Jean Roudy Chicoye in Lakeland on an Ohio felonious-assault warrant tied to a Columbus shooting, authorities say. The arrest was made without incident.

FDOT will present a preferred 78‑foot fixed‑span design for the Longboat Pass bridge tonight; Longboat Key leaders say they prefer a drawbridge and public comments are open.

The Global Virus Network cut the ribbon on its international headquarters at USF on March 5, bringing Robert Gallo and global virology programs to Tampa Bay. University and network leaders say the move strengthens local research, training and pandemic preparedness.

Homeowners in Tampa Bay say they paid for roof replacements but later found construction liens recorded by a supplier after their contractor allegedly failed to pay for materials.

St. Petersburg Councilmember Brandi Gabbard filed to run for mayor, setting up a challenge to incumbent Ken Welch as the Gas Plant redevelopment fight intensifies. Her campaign centers on housing, flood resilience and a planning‑first approach.

A Tampa man is jailed without bond after allegedly posting threats to kill ICE agents; prosecutors called him a danger and say threats to law enforcement will be handled urgently.

Hillsborough officials unveiled a boundary plan Tuesday that could reassign thousands of students and put several Tampa schools at risk of closure. The district says the moves aim to balance enrollment and cut costs.

Florida’s unclaimed‑property program returned a record $88 million in February, with the Tampa–St. Petersburg area collecting about $23.8 million.

EPA's FY2025 enforcement report shows thousands of cases, $6B+ in commitments and major pesticide seizures. Tampa utilities may see inspections and cleanup work next.