Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

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‘Impossible fight’: A Tampa neighborhood’s grassroots effort to save its wetlands

A grassroots movement in a Tampa neighborhood is rallying against a developer's plans to pave over wetlands for new townhomes along the Hillsborough River. Residents, led by neighborhood association president Hank Cramer, are facing significant challenges as they strive to protect their local environment. Despite their efforts, recent county approvals have raised concerns about the future of these vital wetlands.

Leader against Pinellas transit tax will sit on bus agency board

Barbara Haselden, a known critic of public transit initiatives in Pinellas County, is set to join the board of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. Her appointment raises concerns among transit advocates, given her previous opposition to transit tax measures and bus service expansions.

Several Mark Robinson campaign staffers quit as fallout over online posts continues

Several top staffers from North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson's campaign for governor have resigned following the fallout from a CNN report that revealed disturbing online posts attributed to Robinson. The departures include key positions such as the campaign manager and senior adviser, raising questions about the campaign's future as Robinson denies the allegations.

Hillsborough County School Board to address poor performing Charter schools

Hillsborough County School Board will hold a meeting to discuss the recent performance grades of charter schools in the county, with seven schools receiving D grades and one an F. The board plans to hear from school officials about improvement strategies to enhance educational outcomes.

John Mulaney and Olivia Munn have a second child, a daughter named Méi

Comedian John Mulaney and actress Olivia Munn have welcomed their second child, a daughter named Méi, born via surrogate. Munn shared the news on Instagram, expressing her gratitude towards the surrogate and reflecting on her emotional journey. The couple, who also have a 2-year-old son, married in July 2024.

Tampa Bay area school closures due to Helene

School districts across the Tampa Bay area are closing in anticipation of Hurricane Helene, with significant cancellations in Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, and Pinellas counties. The closures include all classes and extracurricular activities for the affected days as safety measures are put in place ahead of the storm.

Lebanon says Israeli airstrikes killed 100 people, wounded more than 400

Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon resulted in the deaths of 100 people and over 400 injuries, marking the deadliest day since the conflict began in October. The Israeli military targeted 300 sites in southern Lebanon, with plans to expand the offensive against Hezbollah. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported the casualties amidst escalating tensions in the region.

One killed, 6 hurt in pair of crashes: PCSO

One person was killed, and six others were injured in two separate vehicle crashes in Polk County, Florida, on Sunday night. The Polk County Sheriff's Office reported the incidents occurred just 15 minutes apart, with one crash involving multiple vehicles and the second involving a vehicle that hit a tree. Both crashes are currently under investigation.

One Dead, Six Injured in Series of Crashes in Polk County

A tragic series of crashes in Polk County resulted in one fatality and six injuries on Sunday night, according to local authorities. The Polk County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incidents that occurred just 15 minutes apart. This news highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the area.

Americans can order free COVID-19 tests beginning this month

Starting September 2024, Americans can order up to four free COVID-19 nasal swab tests delivered to their homes as part of a federal program. This initiative aims to enhance testing accessibility ahead of the holiday season when gatherings are expected to increase. The program's reopening follows recent FDA approvals for updated vaccines targeting current virus strains.

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