Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A 16-year-old boy named Peter Hyman Jr. was shot and killed outside the Citrus Park Town Center Mall in Tampa, Florida, prompting an investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. His mother, Bianca Cooper, is seeking answers regarding the tragic incident that occurred on a typical Saturday evening.
Hawkers, an Orlando-based Asian street food restaurant chain, is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to shield itself from a lender it describes as "hyper-aggressive." Despite the filing, all 15 restaurant locations will continue normal operations while the company seeks to negotiate new loan terms.
Fort Lauderdale has introduced a new feature in its FixIt FTL app that allows residents to report homelessness concerns in response to a state law banning unauthorized camping on public property. The initiative aims to ensure transparency and provide a means for city officials to address these issues more effectively.
A Russian citizen residing in Sarasota has been arrested for illegally exporting drone technology with military applications back to Russia, as announced by the Department of Justice. The individual faces multiple charges, including violating the Export Control Reform Act and money laundering. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding national security and illegal technology transfers.
The Wounded Warrior Project is organizing its annual Carry Forward 5k event in Clearwater, Florida, on September 28. Participants are encouraged to show support for wounded veterans by carrying flags, weights, or even people during the race. This event aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by combat veterans in the Tampa area.
A new study by Dr. Dipayan Biswas, a marketing professor at the University of South Florida, finds that sampling healthy foods may lead consumers to make less healthy choices later. This phenomenon is attributed to "moral licensing," where individuals feel justified in indulging after engaging in positive behavior. Biswas encourages consumers to consider the relationship between sampled foods and their intended purchases.
Pinellas County school officials are grappling with the implications of a new state law requiring later start times for middle and high schools by 2026. The changes necessitate significant logistical adjustments, including transportation and school choice programs, and the district seeks input from parents on their preferences.
Forecasters are currently monitoring two potential tropical systems, including one that may develop over the northwestern Caribbean Sea with a 20% chance of formation. The National Hurricane Center has indicated that these systems could pose varying levels of threat, although one is not expected to impact land. The 2024 hurricane season is projected to be extremely active, with 23 named storms anticipated.
Tampa's city council has approved a $1.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, which includes funding to make HART's Route 1 bus service free for one year. The decision was supported by residents during a public hearing, highlighting the benefits for economic, racial, and environmental justice.
The City of Tampa is set to honor the late Dr. Walter L. Smith with a ceremonial street renaming on September 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. on N. Albany Avenue. Dr. Smith, a Tampa native and the former president of Florida A&M University, made significant contributions to education and the community. The event will celebrate his legacy and contributions alongside city officials, community members, and family.