Aqua Tequila's Parrish outpost opened Friday in Creekside Commons, bringing margaritas, street tacos and a tequila-forward menu to Manatee County.

ZooTampa closed a $33 million campaign to finish Florida Waters and the Straz Family Manatee Rescue, adding new habitats and expanded rescue capacity this spring.

Volta Wine + Market will begin buildout at 400 Central in March, bringing a 2,000‑sq‑ft wine shop, market and tasting bar to downtown St. Pete.

Clear and mild today with a high near 78°F. Patchy fog Friday morning and showers with thunderstorms expected Friday night into Saturday.

The sheriff’s office says reported crime fell 19.7% in 2025, with large drops in vehicle theft, robbery and violent crime. Local measures and staffing shifts are cited as possible factors.

Clear, cool morning in Tampa with a high near 70°F this afternoon. Frost advisory inland through 8 a.m.; rain and storms likely Friday–Saturday.

Investigations and court filings show hundreds of Floridians deemed too sick for trial are stuck in county jails for months while they wait for state psychiatric beds.

Galacticoaster opens Feb. 27 at LEGOLAND Florida, a space‑themed indoor coaster where guests build and ride custom LEGO spacecraft.

Seattle-based Horizon Realty Advisors paid $57M for NíCHE, a 251-unit apartment in North Hyde Park. The sale adds another out-of-state owner to Tampa’s near-downtown rental stock.

DeSoto County deputies arrested Daniel Diaz after investigators say he sent sexually explicit material to a juvenile over Facebook. He now faces felony charges.

Four Inverness teens were taken into custody hours after deputies say they robbed the Citgo on N. Florida Ave and stole about $1,500 in vape products. K-9 teams and community tips helped lead to the arrests.

Clear and chilly Tuesday in Tampa with a high near 61°F. Morning rip-current risk at area beaches; shelters are open for anyone who needs warmth.

A 38-year-old man was shot and killed outside the Jade Fox Lounge in Lakeland early Sunday; detectives say the shooter and victim were known to each other. Police are asking witnesses to come forward.