Dozens of Hillsborough schools are over Florida’s legal class‑size caps, putting pressure on teachers and facilities. District leaders say fixes will take time and money.

Boone-based Samaritan's Purse added 19 rebuild locations after Hurricane Helene; dozens of homes are complete or underway and applications are open across four states.

SmartAsset's 2025 analysis puts comfortable pay for many single Floridians near six figures, while families of four often need well over $200k to feel financially secure.

UCF’s Winter 2026 forecast says Florida will keep growing through 2029 but at a slower pace, with energy volatility and housing softness likely to curb gains.

One hundred new, larger Hope Cottages opened at Tampa Hope in East Ybor, adding climate-controlled private units and boosting on-site shelter capacity.

After a Lakeland shooting, Tampa Bay agencies are routing more mental‑health 911 calls to dispatch clinicians, co‑responder teams and mobile crisis units. The systems vary by city and by county.

The Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office says 17 children under 5 were involved in water incidents since 2025 and five died. County partners are stepping up inspections and swim safety programs.

A Citrus Park orchid venue says its weddings are protected by Florida agritourism law, while neighbors say loud receptions and lawsuits are tearing the block apart.

A LaBelle man turned a $5 scratch-off into a $1 million top prize and chose a $640,000 lump-sum when he claimed the win in late December.

A Thonotosassa man turned a routine gas-stop into a $1 million scratch-off win and took a $640,000 lump-sum payout.

A Tampa mother filed a complaint after officers searched her 15‑year‑old on private property without an adult present, reigniting 'biking while Black' concerns as the city debates e‑bike rules.

Case managers will be at Treasure Island City Hall April 7 to help residents apply for Pinellas Recovers grants and reimbursements. Pop‑up help is available.

A Florida TaxWatch mid‑decade report finds surging insurance bills and rents have left about half of residents considering moving. The study calls for policy fixes on insurance, housing and health care.