Ty Rodriguez is opening The Peppermint Lounge, a vinyl-focused bar on Franklin Street in Tampa Heights this fall. The project pairs his restaurant background with music programming experience.

UF research and NOAA outlook warn El Niño could bump up Botrytis risk in Plant City, leading to more fungicide sprays and higher costs for growers.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for parts of Pasco County Tuesday; residents in New Port Richey and Hudson were urged to take shelter immediately.

A modern Japanese izakaya called Hanami has been announced for 635 Cleveland Street, bringing sushi, ramen and yakitori to downtown Clearwater. The spot will sit near a planned $50M entertainment anchor with a record-size screen.

An 80-year-old Tampa man died after his Chevrolet Silverado ran off State Road 60 west of Kelsey Lane and crashed into a ditch, troopers said.

A child found unresponsive in Sarasota’s Newtown neighborhood later died at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Police are investigating and asking anyone with information to call 941‑263‑6070.

A four‑year‑old died after a pool party at the Kendall Ridge apartments in Bradenton. Police have arrested a person on a child‑neglect charge as the investigation continues.

A 54-year-old Lakeland man was struck and killed Friday night while crossing North Florida Avenue; investigators have closed the scene and are seeking witnesses.

The estate of Supertramp co‑founder Rick Davies sued Roger Hodgson in Hillsborough County, alleging publishing royalties were shorted and asking a Tampa court to apply Florida law.

A newborn died after being born on a fishing boat towed from Clearwater to Apalachicola; the Franklin County Sheriffs Office is awaiting autopsy results.

A Woodland Middle School teacher in North Port was arrested May 8 on three felony counts alleging inappropriate touching. Investigators say the probe is ongoing.

The Hillsborough School Board is moving to put a half‑penny sales surtax renewal before voters, citing recent HVAC, roof and safety work funded by the levy.

Two Port Charlotte men are jailed after separate investigations into alleged sexual crimes involving minors. Authorities say both suspects confessed and are being held without bond.