St. Petersburg is lining up free America250 events — fireworks at the Pier, youth art displays and a July 1 flag‑raising at City Hall.

Jon Vigue, formerly of Wild Adventures, will lead Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as the park moves ahead with a $100M overhaul.

Aerial video shows HCSO aviation tracking a motorcycle that crossed into Manatee County; the rider, identified as Dantonio Brown, was arrested and faces charges.

Sheriff Bob Gualtieri will brief reporters Wednesday on an adoptive parent's arrest tied to child‑pornography and imagery depicting sexual activity with animals.

Quaker Steak & Lube’s Clearwater location will shut after business on July 5, closing a longtime home for car shows and bike nights.

A 73‑year‑old 7‑Eleven clerk in Largo was hospitalized after an alleged assault in the store restroom; police arrested a 56‑year‑old woman. Barnes says she hopes for more compassion.

A Lakeland man surrendered after barricading himself in a shed on June 11 when deputies warned a K9 would enter. Deputies seized a shotgun and drug items; he was booked on nine charges.

A Tampa police detective was arrested after an ICAC tip led investigators to alleged messages, money transfers and a drug delivery involving a 16‑year‑old. The department says the probe remains active.

Tarpon Springs' St. Nicholas Cathedral launched a $6M restoration campaign to tackle water damage and preserve stained glass, chandeliers and historic interior art.

A tomato grower sold Manatee County acreage to Sam’s Club, a deal that could bring a new club store to Parrish amid a wave of local development.

Dunedin commissioners have asked staff to draft an ordinance banning shore launches of jet skis from the Causeway as repairs and seagrass recovery reshape the area. Public hearings could come in July.

Los Chiludos opened a second Manatee County spot in Braden River Plaza, bringing California-style burritos, birria tacos and house queso to Bradenton.

Crystal River’s council declined to formally oppose a proposed Suncoast Parkway borrow pit, leaving activists to push regulators over groundwater and springs risks. The fight now moves into the permit record.