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Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt

House Democrats who have held their seats for decades are finding the ground shifting beneath their feet.

Politics & Policy

House Democrats who have comfortably held their seats for decades are suddenly finding the ground shifting beneath their feet as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="primary voters revolt" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/house-democrats-primary-shri-thanedar-2026" data-vars-content-id="7aba0f5c-cc32-4ec3-9cea-a8f14d8ebfb2" data-vars-headline="Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/house-democrats-primary-shri-thanedar-2026" target="_self">primary voters revolt</a> against the party&#x27;s old guard.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="anti-establishment revolution" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2026-midterm-democrats-socialist-michigan" data-vars-content-id="7aba0f5c-cc32-4ec3-9cea-a8f14d8ebfb2" data-vars-headline="Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2026-midterm-democrats-socialist-michigan" target="_self">anti-establishment revolution</a> that has swept Democratic primaries this year is poised to drastically alter the makeup of the party caucus and Congress as a whole.

Trump's growing White House tab

Trump's construction itch hasn't eased, and the price tag keeps on growing with it.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Wing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/trumps-ballroom-costs-are-rising-what-we-know-about-the-secret-underground-bunker" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/trumps-ballroom-costs-are-rising-what-we-know-about-the-secret-underground-bunker" target="_self">East Wing</a> is gone, a new helipad is spreading across the lawn, and scaffolding wraps the White House&#x27;s front columns, but the price tags for President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> renovations are far less obvious.The big picture: The muddled mix of funding streams — whether from private donors, the president himself or taxpayers — has fueled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ethical questions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" target="_self">ethical questions</a> about who&#x27;s footing the ever-rising bill for the HGTV-reminiscent White House redesign.

Haberman: 70% of Trump's brain on monuments

"What interests him are things that you can see and touch," she told Axios.

The New York Times&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Maggie Haberman" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/22/scoop-regime-change-sells-500000-on-track-for-nonfiction-bestseller-of-26" data-vars-content-id="0eeb3801-e941-446f-985d-535f1c6c9fba" data-vars-headline="Haberman: 70% of Trump&#x27;s brain on monuments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/22/scoop-regime-change-sells-500000-on-track-for-nonfiction-bestseller-of-26" target="_self">Maggie Haberman</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tells me" data-vars-click-url="https://youtu.be/bw618CL6Vfo" data-vars-content-id="0eeb3801-e941-446f-985d-535f1c6c9fba" data-vars-headline="Haberman: 70% of Trump&#x27;s brain on monuments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://youtu.be/bw618CL6Vfo" target="_blank">tells me</a> 70% of President Trump&#x27;s mindshare (&quot;maybe plus or minus 5%&quot;) goes to his gilding, construction, renovation, renaming and tribute projects.<ul><li>&quot;He is spending a huge amount of energy, mental and otherwise, on these renovation projects, beautification projects around Washington, and then monuments to self,&quot; Haberman told me for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios&#x27; &quot;Behind the Curtain&quot; video series" data-vars-click-url="https://youtu.be/bw618CL6Vfo" data-vars-content-id="0eeb3801-e941-446f-985d-535f1c6c9fba" data-vars-headline="Haberman: 70% of Trump&#x27;s brain on monuments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://youtu.be/bw618CL6Vfo" target="_blank">Axios&#x27; &quot;Behind the Curtain&quot; video series</a>. &quot;[T]here is no precedent in U.S. history of a sitting president devising such endeavors in their own name.&quot;</li></ul>

Scoop: House GOP group launches $22 million campaign in 41 districts

The ads tout no tax on tips or on Social Security .

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="American Action Network" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/16/house-republican-campaign-ad-battleground-districts" data-vars-content-id="43f3863f-4edb-4b1c-a3c9-9984ff3b2e9b" data-vars-headline="Scoop: House GOP group launches $22 million campaign in 41 districts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/16/house-republican-campaign-ad-battleground-districts" target="_self">American Action Network</a>, a top outside group aligned with House GOP leaders, is launching a $22 million ad campaign on Thursday across 41 congressional districts, Axios has learned.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Republicans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/11/michigan-senate-abdul-el-sayed-gop-super-pac" data-vars-content-id="43f3863f-4edb-4b1c-a3c9-9984ff3b2e9b" data-vars-headline="Scoop: House GOP group launches $22 million campaign in 41 districts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/11/michigan-senate-abdul-el-sayed-gop-super-pac" target="_self">Republicans</a> hope a focus on GOP tax cuts and attacks over transgender health care will help them hold on to their narrow House majority <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in November " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/08/2026-midterms-congress-house-senate-predictions" data-vars-content-id="43f3863f-4edb-4b1c-a3c9-9984ff3b2e9b" data-vars-headline="Scoop: House GOP group launches $22 million campaign in 41 districts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/08/2026-midterms-congress-house-senate-predictions" target="_self">in November </a>despite strong headwinds.

Pollsters missed again in Wisconsin. Here's why.

Polls caught only a hint of a primary race that was rapidly changing the week before the election.

Pollsters appeared to blow another high-stakes Midwest election Tuesday, as center-left Democrat David Crowley <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stunned" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/wisconsin-primary-crowley-hong-socialist-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="9230b51a-379d-4642-9f99-63b530bee7d6" data-vars-headline="Pollsters missed again in Wisconsin. Here&#x27;s why." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/wisconsin-primary-crowley-hong-socialist-takeaways" target="_self">stunned</a> socialist Francesca Hong in Wisconsin&#x27;s primary for governor.<ul><li>But on Wednesday, the reasons for the miss seemed clear: Surveys a week before the primary captured only a hint of a rapidly changing roller coaster of a race in which Crowley was gaining fast, and Hong was playing defense.</li></ul>Driving the news: Two polls had shown Hong <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="up by about 20 points" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/polls/wisconsin-governor-election-polls-2026.html" data-vars-content-id="9230b51a-379d-4642-9f99-63b530bee7d6" data-vars-headline="Pollsters missed again in Wisconsin. Here&#x27;s why." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/polls/wisconsin-governor-election-polls-2026.html" target="_blank">up by about 20 points</a> over Crowley. But Crowley wound up winning by half a percentage point in an upset that interrupted a run of primary wins by left-wing Democrats this spring.

Carlson's new financing plan could unlock Rays stadium deal

The Rays say shovels need to be in the ground next month.

News

The Tampa City Council is playing hardball with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Rays" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/14/hillsborough-county-unveils-proposed-stadium-deal-with-rays" data-vars-content-id="9b61e431-21c5-4408-a45b-5492654faf2c" data-vars-headline="Carlson&#x27;s new financing plan could unlock Rays stadium deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/14/hillsborough-county-unveils-proposed-stadium-deal-with-rays" target="_self">the Rays</a>, but a new financing plan pitched by council member Bill Carlson could give the team the vote it needs to keep the dream of its &quot;Forever Home&quot; alive.Why it matters: The Rays say shovels need to be in the ground next month to have a new stadium ready for Opening Day 2029, leaving the team with little time or leverage to win over a so-far resistant City Council.

TSA union sues over privatization program TPA opted into

The agency's effort to privatize airport security screening could affect more than 700 employees at Tampa International.

A union representing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Transportation Security Administration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/25/tsa-airport-security-quit-shutdown" data-vars-content-id="c9fa32d7-fcfc-47db-815f-290dc46f59ce" data-vars-headline="TSA union sues over privatization program TPA opted into" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/25/tsa-airport-security-quit-shutdown" target="_self">Transportation Security Administration</a> employees is suing the agency over documents related to its new Gold+ program, which Tampa International Airport has opted into. Why it matters: The TSA&#x27;s effort to privatize airport security screening could affect more than 700 employees at Tampa International, resulting in the loss of benefits and lower salaries.

Waymo could bring self-driving taxis to Pinellas

Waymo met with St. Pete's transportation department about expanding into Pinellas County.

Waymo may bring its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="self-driving cars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/23/waymo-robotaxis-av-crash-study" data-vars-content-id="7006d72e-f189-4bf7-8a55-7f3542161b88" data-vars-headline="Waymo could bring self-driving taxis to Pinellas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/23/waymo-robotaxis-av-crash-study" target="_self">self-driving cars</a> to Pinellas County, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tampa Bay Times" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/2026/08/12/waymo-pinellas-county-service-st-petersburg/" data-vars-content-id="7006d72e-f189-4bf7-8a55-7f3542161b88" data-vars-headline="Waymo could bring self-driving taxis to Pinellas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/2026/08/12/waymo-pinellas-county-service-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">Tampa Bay Times</a> reported. Why it matters: The company has already laid the groundwork for the autonomous ride-hailing service to start operating in Tampa this year, and before long its driverless fleet could be crossing the Bay.

Bite Club: We tried the revamped Predalina

Predalina closed in late October for a makeover and reopened earlier this month.

Food and Drink

We made our way through Downtown Tampa — during a Lightning game, no less — to visit Water Street&#x27;s Mediterranean restaurant, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Predalina" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/08/16/bite-club-water-street-predalina" data-vars-content-id="b363fd3c-331d-4f42-8a50-d403b88801ef" data-vars-headline="Bite Club: We tried the revamped Predalina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/08/16/bite-club-water-street-predalina" target="_self">Predalina</a>, last week.Why it matters: Predalina earned a nod from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin Guide" data-vars-click-url="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/florida/tampa/restaurant/predalina" data-vars-content-id="b363fd3c-331d-4f42-8a50-d403b88801ef" data-vars-headline="Bite Club: We tried the revamped Predalina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/florida/tampa/restaurant/predalina" target="_blank">Michelin Guide</a> in 2024, but it closed in October for a makeover after the restaurant group behind it, which also runs Oxford Exchange, said the space &quot;didn&#x27;t feel like us.&quot;

The best Tampa Bay restaurants I tried in 2024

We uncovered the good, the great and, occasionally, the meh in Tampa Bay's dining scene.

This year, I made it a mission to uncover the good, the great and, occasionally, the meh in Tampa Bay&#x27;s dining scene — from new, upscale eateries to more affordable gems.<ul><li>With the holidays around the corner and friends and relatives not too far behind, I rounded up the best restaurants I tried this year.</li></ul>

More Tampa Bay home sellers turn into "accidental landlords"

A growing share of homeowners are renting their properties instead of selling.

Real Estate

More home sellers in Tampa Bay are becoming what Zillow calls &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="accidental landlords" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" data-vars-content-id="d180b447-cfdd-43db-adec-b75668ac66ea" data-vars-headline="More Tampa Bay home sellers turn into &quot;accidental landlords&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" target="_blank">accidental landlords</a>&quot; — 3.7% of local rental listings on its platform in October were previously for sale, according to the real estate site.Why it matters: As buyers gain <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="leverage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/16/home-sale-discount-metro" data-vars-content-id="d180b447-cfdd-43db-adec-b75668ac66ea" data-vars-headline="More Tampa Bay home sellers turn into &quot;accidental landlords&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/16/home-sale-discount-metro" target="_self">leverage</a> and homes take longer to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sell" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/13/housing-mortgages-march-nar" data-vars-content-id="d180b447-cfdd-43db-adec-b75668ac66ea" data-vars-headline="More Tampa Bay home sellers turn into &quot;accidental landlords&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/13/housing-mortgages-march-nar" target="_self">sell</a>, a growing share of homeowners are renting their properties out instead.

What Tampa Bay homeowners do for a living

STEM and technical workers are most likely to own homes in Tampa Bay.

Money

STEM and technical workers are most likely to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="own homes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" data-vars-content-id="87044b87-f275-4743-ab8b-1d2e7547c462" data-vars-headline="What Tampa Bay homeowners do for a living" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" target="_self">own homes</a> in Tampa Bay, according to a new National Association of Realtors analysis. The big picture: In Tampa Bay, fields like engineering and computer science have outpaced management and business professionals in the share of workers who own homes over the last decade.

Charlie Crist's no-show looms over St. Petersburg mayor forum

The event underscored just how messy the mayor's race has become.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Petersburg mayoral" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/23/st-petersburg-mayor-election-forum-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="112d1803-c31f-48f8-b608-25519c4f322b" data-vars-headline="Charlie Crist&#x27;s no-show looms over St. Petersburg mayor forum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/23/st-petersburg-mayor-election-forum-takeaways" target="_self">St. Petersburg mayoral</a> hopefuls found some common ground during a candidate forum this week when they seized on their opponent Charlie Crist&#x27;s absence to criticize him.Why it matters: The event underscored <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="just how messy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/16/st-petersburg-mayor-race-charlie-crist-ken-welch-ad" data-vars-content-id="112d1803-c31f-48f8-b608-25519c4f322b" data-vars-headline="Charlie Crist&#x27;s no-show looms over St. Petersburg mayor forum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/16/st-petersburg-mayor-race-charlie-crist-ken-welch-ad" target="_self">just how messy</a> the mayor&#x27;s race has become with three weeks still left to go until the Aug. 18 primary election.<ul><li>And that will likely only intensify in the lead-up to the Nov. 3 runoff that will pit the top two vote-getters against each other. </li></ul>

Florida's property tax amendment lacks champions

Don't expect Gov. Ron DeSantis to become its marquee messenger.

Politics

Opposition is mounting to the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sweeping property tax overhaul" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/02/florida-puts-property-tax-overhaul-on-ballot-as-local-officials-sound-alarm" data-vars-content-id="9b71826c-7e25-4cc2-b445-8cff8268f988" data-vars-headline="Florida&#x27;s property tax amendment lacks champions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/02/florida-puts-property-tax-overhaul-on-ballot-as-local-officials-sound-alarm" target="_self">sweeping property tax overhaul</a> — and its once-biggest champion is nowhere to be found.Why it matters: The constitutional amendment, if passed by 60% of voters, would leave some local governments <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="starved for revenue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/hollywood/2026/06/25/property-tax-cut-could-cost-hollywood-services" data-vars-content-id="9b71826c-7e25-4cc2-b445-8cff8268f988" data-vars-headline="Florida&#x27;s property tax amendment lacks champions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/hollywood/2026/06/25/property-tax-cut-could-cost-hollywood-services" target="_self">starved for revenue</a> as they scramble to maintain services and offset billions of dollars in losses.

What's going up in Tampa: 3-D printed homes, mixed-use galore

Here's the latest development news, in and around Tampa.

Business

Here&#x27;s the latest development news, in and around Tampa.

Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over ChatGPT

It's part a string of lawsuits the state has filed against Big Tech companies.

Technology

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier on Monday sued <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="OpenAI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/openai-biodefense-program" data-vars-content-id="61d4f42a-b21a-438a-b1bb-d15451c1964f" data-vars-headline="Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over ChatGPT" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/openai-biodefense-program" target="_self">OpenAI</a> and its CEO Sam Altman, alleging that the company marketed ChatGPT to the public without sufficiently warning of its dangers. Why it matters: Florida is the first state to sue OpenAI, part of a growing string of lawsuits the state has filed against Big Tech companies, including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meta" data-vars-click-url="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-moody-takes-legal-action-against-meta-protect-children" data-vars-content-id="61d4f42a-b21a-438a-b1bb-d15451c1964f" data-vars-headline="Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over ChatGPT" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-moody-takes-legal-action-against-meta-protect-children" target="_blank">Meta</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Snapchat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-james-uthmeier-takes-legal-action-against-snapchat" data-vars-content-id="61d4f42a-b21a-438a-b1bb-d15451c1964f" data-vars-headline="Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over ChatGPT" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-james-uthmeier-takes-legal-action-against-snapchat" target="_blank">Snapchat</a>.

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Your guide to 813 Day discounts and events

Whether you're a lifelong local or the newest neighbor on the block, 813 Day is yours to celebrate.

Culture

It&#x27;s Tampa&#x27;s hometown holiday! <ul><li>Whether you&#x27;re a lifelong local or the newest neighbor on the block, 813 Day is yours to celebrate.</li></ul>Why it matters: There are plenty of events and deals around the city to enjoy.<ul><li>We&#x27;ve rounded up a few you won&#x27;t want to miss.</li></ul>

School lunch prices to climb for some Tampa Bay students

Florida districts are doing away with universal meals.

Education

Students across the state went back to school this week, and many —including some in Tampa Bay — are facing higher prices for school meals. Why it matters: Families across the state are already facing an affordability crisis and higher-priced school meals can add to the strain.

Crowbar owner launches campaign for Tampa's next indie venue

Days after his venue's final shows, Tom DeGeorge is asking the community for help.

Music

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Crowbar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/17/ybor-city-live-nation-venue-opposition-crowbar-gasworx-petition" data-vars-content-id="5e371fab-c455-411e-95c1-0eed21672999" data-vars-headline="Crowbar owner launches campaign for Tampa&#x27;s next indie venue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/17/ybor-city-live-nation-venue-opposition-crowbar-gasworx-petition" target="_self">Crowbar</a> held its final shows on Friday, ending its run as Ybor City&#x27;s last independent concert room. <ul><li>But owner Tom DeGeorge is starting to plan his next venue — and he wants Tampa&#x27;s help.</li></ul>

Pornhub pushes for a return to Florida's web browsers

The adult site says Florida's age checks fail minors while putting users' personal data at risk.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pornhub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/12/18/pornhub-blocked-florida-age-verification-law-2025" data-vars-content-id="81bcde3e-8864-4bff-ab15-478c8b5948a1" data-vars-headline="Pornhub pushes for a return to Florida&#x27;s web browsers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/12/18/pornhub-blocked-florida-age-verification-law-2025" target="_self">Pornhub</a> is hoping to return to Floridians&#x27; web browsers and search histories by challenging the state&#x27;s age verification rules for porn sites.Why it matters: It&#x27;s been two long years since residents could directly access one of the biggest names in online pornography.

Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge

Early voting starts next week, and 37,000 voters have already cast ballots by mail.

Pinellas County voters can cast ballots in the Aug. 18 primary for county commission, school board and judge, regardless of party affiliation.State of play: Early <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="voting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/14/florida-primary-voter-registration-party-change-mail-ballot-deadlines" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/14/florida-primary-voter-registration-party-change-mail-ballot-deadlines" target="_self">voting</a> starts next week, and 37,000 voters have already <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cast ballots by mail" data-vars-click-url="https://countyfilesvbm-ev.floridados.gov/VoteByMailEarlyVotingReports/PublicStats" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://countyfilesvbm-ev.floridados.gov/VoteByMailEarlyVotingReports/PublicStats" target="_blank">cast ballots by mail</a>.<ul><li>You can check your registration status, polling location and sample ballot <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="here" data-vars-click-url="https://www.votepinellas.gov/213/Check-Registration-Status" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.votepinellas.gov/213/Check-Registration-Status" target="_blank">here</a>.</li><li>Races for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Petersburg mayor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/23/st-petersburg-mayor-election-forum-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/23/st-petersburg-mayor-election-forum-takeaways" target="_self">St. Petersburg mayor</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/08/st-pete-city-council-elections-candidates-2026" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/07/08/st-pete-city-council-elections-candidates-2026" target="_self">City Council</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Clearwater City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://www.myclearwater.com/My-Government/0-City-Departments/City-Clerk/Election-Day-Aug.-18-2026" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.myclearwater.com/My-Government/0-City-Departments/City-Clerk/Election-Day-Aug.-18-2026" target="_blank">Clearwater City Council</a>, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Oldsmar City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://www.myoldsmar.com/1298/Upcoming-Elections" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.myoldsmar.com/1298/Upcoming-Elections" target="_blank">Oldsmar City Council</a> are also nonpartisan for residents of those cities. </li></ul>Worthy of your time: The Tampa Bay Times published a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="comprehensive candidate guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/elections/2026/07/16/florida-election-candidates-primary-2026/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/elections/2026/07/16/florida-election-candidates-primary-2026/" target="_blank">comprehensive candidate guide</a> where you can find more in-depth answers and info. <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">County Commission District 4</h2>The race <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drew only Republicans" data-vars-click-url="https://floridapolitics.com/archives/774855-have-democrats-given-up-on-the-pinellas-county-commission/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://floridapolitics.com/archives/774855-have-democrats-given-up-on-the-pinellas-county-commission/" target="_blank">drew only Republicans</a>, so all district voters can participate. The district covers Tarpon Springs and East Lake south to Dunedin and Safety Harbor.Zoom in: Incumbent commissioner and current chair Dave Eggers drew one challenger: retired business owner Anthony Ringelspaugh. <ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Eggers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.votedaveeggers.com/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.votedaveeggers.com/" target="_blank">Eggers</a> told the Times he wants to keep investing in county infrastructure and public safety while recruiting tech companies that create high-paying jobs.</li><li>Ringelspaugh didn&#x27;t respond to the Times, but he says on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="his campaign website" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tonyringelspaughforpinellas.com/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tonyringelspaughforpinellas.com/" target="_blank">his campaign website</a> he&#x27;d prioritize drainage and sewage improvements while taking a tougher look at new development.</li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">School Board </h2>Districts 2 and 3 are at-large, meaning that all county voters can cast ballots. <ul><li>District 6 is for voters in Seminole, Pinellas Park, St. Pete&#x27;s Gandy area, and the beaches from Redington Shores south.</li></ul>District 2: Incumbent Lisa Cane, who runs the nonprofit Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy, drew last-minute challenger Nancy Velardi, a retired teacher and former teachers union president.<ul><li>Cane <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told WUSF" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wusf.org/local-state/2026-07-27/meet-the-candidates-pinellas-county-school-board" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wusf.org/local-state/2026-07-27/meet-the-candidates-pinellas-county-school-board" target="_blank">told WUSF</a> her biggest challenge has been navigating federal and state mandates, although she signed a pledge in 2022 to carry out Gov. Ron DeSantis&#x27; education priorities.</li><li>Velardi <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told the Times" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2026/06/12/pinellas-school-board-election-edmond-candidates/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2026/06/12/pinellas-school-board-election-edmond-candidates/" target="_blank">told the Times</a> she didn&#x27;t want to see Cane go unchallenged and noted that she opposes DeSantis&#x27; education agenda. </li></ul>District 3: Consultant and speaker Curtis Campogni, a first-time candidate, and veteran teacher Dawn Douglas, who has unsuccessfully run for state House four times as a Democrat, are challenging incumbent Dawn Peters.<ul><li>Peters was first elected in 2022 on a campaign that prioritized the GOP-backed parental rights movement, although the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Times noted" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/elections/2026/07/16/florida-election-candidates-primary-2026/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/elections/2026/07/16/florida-election-candidates-primary-2026/" target="_blank">Times noted</a> she&#x27;s since moderated her approach. </li></ul>District 6: Project manager Amanda Lord faces former School Board member and county commissioner Nancy Bostock for the open seat being vacated by incumbent Stephanie Meyer. <ul><li>Bostock lost her commission seat in 2012 after supporting the removal of fluoride from drinking water, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per the Times" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2026/06/12/pinellas-school-board-election-edmond-candidates/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2026/06/12/pinellas-school-board-election-edmond-candidates/" target="_blank">per the Times</a>. Lord, a former St. Petersburg College professor and PTA president, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bills herself" data-vars-click-url="https://amandalordforschoolboard.com/about" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://amandalordforschoolboard.com/about" target="_blank">bills herself</a> as a &quot;fresh voice.&quot; </li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Judge</h2>All Pinellas voters can participate. Pasco County residents can also vote in the circuit judge contests because both counties are part of the same judicial circuit.<ul><li>Circuit judges oversee felony, big-money civil lawsuits and other types of cases, including divorce, guardianship and juvenile delinquency. </li><li>County judges handle misdemeanors and small-claims civil cases.</li></ul>Pinellas-Pasco Circuit Judge Group 39: With Judge Daniel Diskey not seeking reelection, his son, Stefen Diskey, is running against Elizabeth Constantine to fill the seat. <ul><li>Both candidates are prosecutors. Diskey is based in Pasco while Constantine is in Pinellas, although they both <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told St. Pete Catalyst" data-vars-click-url="https://stpetecatalyst.com/meet-the-candidates-in-pinellas-countys-judicial-races/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://stpetecatalyst.com/meet-the-candidates-in-pinellas-countys-judicial-races/" target="_blank">told St. Pete Catalyst</a> it shouldn&#x27;t be seen as a Pinellas vs. Pasco competition.</li></ul>Pinellas-Pasco Circuit Judge Group 44: In one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more buzzy judge races of late" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/pinellas/2026/07/13/judge-elizabeth-jack-oxalis-garcia-6th-judicial-circuit-election/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/pinellas/2026/07/13/judge-elizabeth-jack-oxalis-garcia-6th-judicial-circuit-election/" target="_blank">more buzzy judge races of late</a>, private attorney Oxalis Garcia is opposing incumbent family law Judge Elizabeth &quot;Liz&quot; Jack.<ul><li>Among Garcia&#x27;s supporters are critics of Jack&#x27;s decisions in their cases, the Times reported. Garcia has drawn her own critics for signing on to represent some of her supporters after she entered the race. </li></ul>Pinellas County Judge Group 10: Nick Fiorentino is seeking the judiciary for a third time after barely losing to a competitor in 2024. Running against him is first-time candidate Zachariah Wade.<ul><li>Fiorentino runs a family law practice and works as an attorney for the local police union, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per St. Pete Catalyst" data-vars-click-url="https://stpetecatalyst.com/meet-the-candidates-in-pinellas-countys-judicial-races/" data-vars-content-id="5c863901-72c2-4ffd-98e7-8c963585bd8d" data-vars-headline="Meet candidates for Pinellas Commission, School Board and judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://stpetecatalyst.com/meet-the-candidates-in-pinellas-countys-judicial-races/" target="_blank">per St. Pete Catalyst</a>. Wade is a criminal defense attorney and ex-prosecutor. </li></ul>

What to know about Clearwater's fight over Scientology land deal

Resident group Save the Garden is collecting petition signatures to reverse a recent City Council vote.

A group of residents is trying to reverse a recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Clearwater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/19/downtown-clearwater-urban-renaissance-scientology" data-vars-content-id="85b662bd-931d-458a-bc71-87627c294645" data-vars-headline="What to know about Clearwater&#x27;s fight over Scientology land deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/19/downtown-clearwater-urban-renaissance-scientology" target="_self">Clearwater</a> City Council vote to give a block of a downtown street to the Church of Scientology to expand its spiritual headquarters. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest flashpoint in a struggle over Clearwater&#x27;s fraught downtown, where the church and companies tied to it <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="own around 200 properties" data-vars-click-url="https://projects.tampabay.com/projects/2019/investigations/scientology-clearwater-real-estate/" data-vars-content-id="85b662bd-931d-458a-bc71-87627c294645" data-vars-headline="What to know about Clearwater&#x27;s fight over Scientology land deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://projects.tampabay.com/projects/2019/investigations/scientology-clearwater-real-estate/" target="_blank">own around 200 properties</a>.<ul><li>It&#x27;s also a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="major issue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cltampa.com/news/scientologys-role-in-clearwaters-future-shapes-the-race-for-city-councils-seat-5/" data-vars-content-id="85b662bd-931d-458a-bc71-87627c294645" data-vars-headline="What to know about Clearwater&#x27;s fight over Scientology land deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cltampa.com/news/scientologys-role-in-clearwaters-future-shapes-the-race-for-city-councils-seat-5/" target="_blank">major issue</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="driving the city&#x27;s upcoming elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/clearwater/2026/06/25/clearwater-city-council-election-south-garden-avenue-scientology/" data-vars-content-id="85b662bd-931d-458a-bc71-87627c294645" data-vars-headline="What to know about Clearwater&#x27;s fight over Scientology land deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/clearwater/2026/06/25/clearwater-city-council-election-south-garden-avenue-scientology/" target="_blank">driving the city&#x27;s upcoming elections</a>, in which five candidates are competing for two Council seats. </li></ul>

St. Pete weekend events: Girls Rock, comedy show and romance book fair

Say it with me: Week-end. Week-END! WEEK-END!!!

Say it with me: Week-end. Week-END! WEEK-END!!!<ul><li>Here are some ways to spend it in and around St. Pete.</li></ul>

727 Day is back with tons of St. Pete, Pinellas specials

Get 727-themed discounts from July 25-27.

Pinellas County&#x27;s unofficial holiday is coming up.Why it matters: Visit St. Pete-Clearwater&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="727 Day celebration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/celebrate-home-its-727-day" data-vars-content-id="c4eb7ad0-83c4-4ec6-ad30-500a925bcfde" data-vars-headline="727 Day is back with tons of St. Pete, Pinellas specials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/celebrate-home-its-727-day" target="_blank">727 Day celebration</a> will feature three days of local deals and giveaways, the tourism bureau announced this week.<ul><li>Don&#x27;t worry, Tampeños. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Your day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/08/13/how-where-celebrate-tampa-813-day-2025" data-vars-content-id="c4eb7ad0-83c4-4ec6-ad30-500a925bcfde" data-vars-headline="727 Day is back with tons of St. Pete, Pinellas specials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/08/13/how-where-celebrate-tampa-813-day-2025" target="_self">Your day</a> is coming.</li></ul>

Tampa weekend events: Open mics, festivals and flowers

We've rounded up a few events worth checking out in and around Tampa.

Looking for weekend plans? <ul><li>We&#x27;ve rounded up a few events worth checking out in and around Tampa.</li></ul>

St. Pete's newest coffee shop is a mid-century dream

At Atomic Cat, coffee, pastries and vintage furniture are on the menu.

It would be easy to miss St. Pete&#x27;s newest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/04/15/vote-best-coffee-shop-bracket" data-vars-content-id="24fca61f-f022-40af-911e-0ff57cd3078b" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s newest coffee shop is a mid-century dream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/04/15/vote-best-coffee-shop-bracket" target="_self">coffee</a> shop, nestled in a nondescript plaza off Gandy Boulevard. <ul><li>But step inside <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Atomic Cat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/atomiccatstpete/" data-vars-content-id="24fca61f-f022-40af-911e-0ff57cd3078b" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s newest coffee shop is a mid-century dream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/atomiccatstpete/" target="_blank">Atomic Cat</a>, and you&#x27;ll feel like you&#x27;ve stumbled onto the set of &quot;Mad Men.&quot;</li></ul>

How to celebrate Pride weekend in St. Pete

The festivities draw more than 300,000 people annually.

St. Petersburg&#x27;s gayest weekend in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gayest month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/27/st-pete-pride-kickoff-weekend-events" data-vars-content-id="574d6d2a-3389-4642-a5ba-30557ab03b56" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Pride weekend in St. Pete" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/27/st-pete-pride-kickoff-weekend-events" target="_self">gayest month</a> of the year kicks off tomorrow.Why it matters: From the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Pete Pride Parade" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stpetepride.org/2026-events" data-vars-content-id="574d6d2a-3389-4642-a5ba-30557ab03b56" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Pride weekend in St. Pete" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stpetepride.org/2026-events" target="_blank">St. Pete Pride Parade</a> to pop-up events around town, there are tons of ways to celebrate and be in community with LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. <ul><li>The festivities draw more than 300,000 people annually. </li></ul>

How to celebrate Juneteenth 2026 in Tampa and St. Pete

From a cookout to a 5K, here's how our region is celebrating.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Juneteenth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/02/juneteenth-celebration-civil-rights-backlash" data-vars-content-id="73d06e32-96a5-4240-a394-22dcb50e5afd" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Juneteenth 2026 in Tampa and St. Pete" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/02/juneteenth-celebration-civil-rights-backlash" target="_self">Juneteenth</a> is coming up, and Tampa Bay has several ways to celebrate.The big picture: The annual holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved people in Texas learned of their emancipation.

St. Pete Pride hears the heat complaints but isn't moving

History and timing with other local and state Pride events outweigh complaints about heat, organizers say.

June in St. Petersburg comes with a couple of traditions: the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride parade" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/24/st-pete-pride-weekend-events-weather-parking" data-vars-content-id="3b22c499-fc81-473e-8044-5720d35d1e68" data-vars-headline="St. Pete Pride hears the heat complaints but isn&#x27;t moving" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/24/st-pete-pride-weekend-events-weather-parking" target="_self">Pride parade</a>, and conversations about whether you&#x27;re going because it&#x27;s so dang hot.Why it matters: Another scorching Pride weekend has some locals questioning whether it&#x27;s time for a change.

Heat will hang over Tampa Bay for the Fourth of July

We won't face the worst of the heat dome, but the region is still in for a familiar summer swelter.

Climate

Tampa Bay won&#x27;t face the worst of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heat dome " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/26/heat-wave-dome-july" data-vars-content-id="6d1792b1-d686-4899-ab6d-ded9177aabf0" data-vars-headline="Heat will hang over Tampa Bay for the Fourth of July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/26/heat-wave-dome-july" target="_self">heat dome </a>building over the Southeast, but the region is still in for a familiar (and dangerous) summer swelter.Why it matters: The heat could complicate Fourth of July celebrations, with crowds expected to gather outdoors to mark <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America&#x27;s 250th birthday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/12/america-250-birthday-polling" data-vars-content-id="6d1792b1-d686-4899-ab6d-ded9177aabf0" data-vars-headline="Heat will hang over Tampa Bay for the Fourth of July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/12/america-250-birthday-polling" target="_self">America&#x27;s 250th birthday</a>.

Tampa Bay faces major heat risk as "feels like" temps hit 100

If you&#x27;ve spent time outside this week, you&#x27;ve surely felt it: It is hot. Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heat index" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/05/22/florida-2025-temperature-outlook-tampa-st-pete" data-vars-content-id="b48208c4-12ec-4b40-8a2e-39c318ac0e88" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay faces major heat risk as &quot;feels like&quot; temps hit 100" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/05/22/florida-2025-temperature-outlook-tampa-st-pete" target="_self">heat index</a>, or the &quot;feels like&quot; temperature, which accounts for humidity and air temperature, will hit the triple digits Thursday and Friday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

New Orleans

Tropical Storm Arthur forms in Gulf, threatens flooding across Southeast

Energy & Climate

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tropical Storm Arthur" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/06/16/invest90l-tropical-storm-arthur-louisiana-texas-forecast" data-vars-content-id="2ab6d4c2-c080-4b49-afbd-a514a2f0f543" data-vars-headline="Tropical Storm Arthur forms in Gulf, threatens flooding across Southeast" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/06/16/invest90l-tropical-storm-arthur-louisiana-texas-forecast" target="_self">Tropical Storm Arthur</a> formed Wednesday in the Gulf off the coast of Texas, becoming the first named system of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.Why it matters: The storm is forecast to bring life-threatening flash flooding to portions of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Florida hurricane forecast brings cautious hope for insurance market

But it won't reverse the last several years of skyrocketing premiums.

A below-average forecast for the Atlantic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hurricane season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/21/atlantic-hurricane-season-forecast-2026-noaa-preparation-el-nino" data-vars-content-id="8697092d-21a7-469e-8671-14071b0a510f" data-vars-headline="Florida hurricane forecast brings cautious hope for insurance market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/21/atlantic-hurricane-season-forecast-2026-noaa-preparation-el-nino" target="_self">hurricane season</a> that begins Monday was welcome news to more than just storm-weary Floridians.Why it matters: Hope for a quiet season, plus legislative reforms and no storm hits last year, have home insurance experts cautiously optimistic about the stability of the market, the News Service of Florida <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/real-estate/2026/05/28/property-insurance-industry-hurricane-rates-prices-citizens/" data-vars-content-id="8697092d-21a7-469e-8671-14071b0a510f" data-vars-headline="Florida hurricane forecast brings cautious hope for insurance market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/real-estate/2026/05/28/property-insurance-industry-hurricane-rates-prices-citizens/" target="_blank">reported</a>.

These are the storm names for the 2026 hurricane season

Here are this year's names we hope won't live in infamy.

From <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Katrina" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/08/21/new-data-new-orleans-displaced-hurricane-katrina" data-vars-content-id="a310c30a-b036-4430-9f9f-a2a3d496c1ab" data-vars-headline="These are the storm names for the 2026 hurricane season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/08/21/new-data-new-orleans-displaced-hurricane-katrina" target="_self">Katrina</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Milton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/10/10/hurricane-milton-wind-damage-rainfall-flooding" data-vars-content-id="a310c30a-b036-4430-9f9f-a2a3d496c1ab" data-vars-headline="These are the storm names for the 2026 hurricane season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/10/10/hurricane-milton-wind-damage-rainfall-flooding" target="_self">Milton</a>, every few storm seasons, a new name or two takes on an infamous reputation.Why it matters: For those in affected areas, a hurricane&#x27;s name lingers as a one-word shorthand for the communal trauma of living through and recovering from a natural disaster.

Florida State Fair food is among America's best, Yelp says

The Tampa-based fair "showcases Southern comfort food and Sunshine State specialties," Yelp said.

Each February, we carry out the great public service that is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="taste-testing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/13/the-best-and-worst-new-foods-at-the-2026-florida-state-fair" data-vars-content-id="d65fa99a-efe2-48ac-a35a-73421a2b79fb" data-vars-headline="Florida State Fair food is among America&#x27;s best, Yelp says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/13/the-best-and-worst-new-foods-at-the-2026-florida-state-fair" target="_self">taste-testing</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the weirdest food" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/02/11/florida-state-fair-2025-food-what-to-eat" data-vars-content-id="d65fa99a-efe2-48ac-a35a-73421a2b79fb" data-vars-headline="Florida State Fair food is among America&#x27;s best, Yelp says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/02/11/florida-state-fair-2025-food-what-to-eat" target="_self">the weirdest food</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="at the Florida State Fair" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/02/14/florida-state-fair-2024-food-what-to-eat" data-vars-content-id="d65fa99a-efe2-48ac-a35a-73421a2b79fb" data-vars-headline="Florida State Fair food is among America&#x27;s best, Yelp says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/02/14/florida-state-fair-2024-food-what-to-eat" target="_self">at the Florida State Fair</a>. Why it matters: We can now say we&#x27;ve tried some of best state fair food in the whole country, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Yelp&#x27;s new top-10 ranking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.yelp.com/article/state-fairs-festival-eats-food" data-vars-content-id="d65fa99a-efe2-48ac-a35a-73421a2b79fb" data-vars-headline="Florida State Fair food is among America&#x27;s best, Yelp says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.yelp.com/article/state-fairs-festival-eats-food" target="_blank">Yelp&#x27;s new top-10 ranking</a>.

Tampa Bay restaurants face a brutal stretch of closures

But owners are also finding ways to adapt.

Tampa Bay has experienced some tough local restaurant and bar closures over the last month.Why it matters: With summer typically a slow food scene and added stressors, including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="inflation, tariffs and high gas prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/food/2026/06/29/tampa-bay-restaurant-venue-fee-closings/" data-vars-content-id="7e60a79f-9871-41e2-90fa-96b334d9a386" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay restaurants face a brutal stretch of closures" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/food/2026/06/29/tampa-bay-restaurant-venue-fee-closings/" target="_blank">inflation, tariffs and high gas prices</a>, squeezing businesses and consumers, more shifts in the dining scene could be on the way.

Don't skip brunch at Tampa's Con Amor

The menu had my mouth watering, and the food delivered.

While looking for a Seminole Heights brunch spot to kick off wedding-dress shopping with family, I came across new-ish modern Mexican restaurant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Con Amor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.conamorfl.com/" data-vars-content-id="e1c96517-ba27-4f3b-be92-2af372879924" data-vars-headline="Don&#x27;t skip brunch at Tampa&#x27;s Con Amor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.conamorfl.com/" target="_blank">Con Amor</a>.The intrigue: The menu had my mouth watering — chilaquiles and huevos rancheros are some of my favorite breakfast dishes. <ul><li>Plus, the restaurant makes tortillas from scratch by soaking corn using an ancient process called nixtamalization, then grinding it into a dough called masa.</li></ul>

5 Tampa, St. Pete bars hosting Love Island watch parties

Watching with a bar full of reality TV heads feels like cheering on a sports team that always wins.

Love Island USA is back, and watching with a bar full of fellow reality TV heads feels like cheering on a sports team that always wins. <ul><li>Here are five bars in Tampa and St. Pete throwing watch parties:</li></ul>

Sweet Tomatoes' return is luring diehards from across Florida — including us

When it comes to Sweet Tomatoes, love literally knows no bounds.

Driving several hours to visit a chain restaurant is, by most standards, deranged.Why it matters: When it comes to Sweet Tomatoes, love literally knows no bounds.

St. Pete's best to-go lunch: Lilya's Cafe salads

The salads are fresh and filling, and the shop offers a killer deal.

Confession: I&#x27;m terrible at eating lunch. <ul><li>As much as I try to have my proper three meals a day, sometimes the only sustenance I make time for is a handful of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="peanut-butter pretzels" data-vars-click-url="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Kirkland-Signature-Peanut-Butter-Filled-Pretzel-Nuggets-55-Ounce/582418096" data-vars-content-id="6ac2a47d-3b67-4988-8353-e3e3e8175565" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s best to-go lunch: Lilya&#x27;s Cafe salads" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Kirkland-Signature-Peanut-Butter-Filled-Pretzel-Nuggets-55-Ounce/582418096" target="_blank">peanut-butter pretzels</a>. </li></ul>

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