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National

Volkswagen is expected to cut 100,000 jobs in landmark downsizing

Business

A dangerous heat wave is coming next week

Energy & Climate

General Intuition raises $320 million to develop AI from gaming

Remembering Om Malik

OpenAI releases powerful new GPT-5.6 model under restrictions

Technology

Where St. Pete mayor candidates stand on DEI

The next mayor will govern a welcoming city while facing restrictions from Tallahassee.

News

A question posed to candidates for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Pete 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="694b0652-c8f7-480f-ad4e-e778d621929d" data-vars-headline="Where St. Pete mayor candidates stand on DEI" 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. Pete mayor</a> at a forum last week took on extra importance, considering this month&#x27;s recognition of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Juneteenth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/15/juneteenth-2026-events-tampa-st-pete" data-vars-content-id="694b0652-c8f7-480f-ad4e-e778d621929d" data-vars-headline="Where St. Pete mayor candidates stand on DEI" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/15/juneteenth-2026-events-tampa-st-pete" target="_self">Juneteenth</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride" 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="694b0652-c8f7-480f-ad4e-e778d621929d" data-vars-headline="Where St. Pete mayor candidates stand on DEI" 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</a>.<ul><li>&quot;How will you reassure voters that you will represent all communities across our city?&quot; moderator Trevor Pettiford asked.</li></ul>

Hillsborough DOGE targets county's health care plan

The report says it identified more than $670 million in "potential waste."

Politics

Hillsborough County&#x27;s version of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="DOGE" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/07/16/hillsborough-wants-to-doge-dozens-of-nonprofits" data-vars-content-id="98d953c1-35d4-4179-a6a6-c9a6da604b44" data-vars-headline="Hillsborough DOGE targets county&#x27;s health care plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/07/16/hillsborough-wants-to-doge-dozens-of-nonprofits" target="_self">DOGE</a> has published findings from its &quot;limited&quot; review of the county&#x27;s finances, identifying more than $670 million in what it deems &quot;potential waste.&quot;Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report" data-vars-click-url="https://hillsboroughdoge.com/" data-vars-content-id="98d953c1-35d4-4179-a6a6-c9a6da604b44" data-vars-headline="Hillsborough DOGE targets county&#x27;s health care plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://hillsboroughdoge.com/" target="_blank">report</a>, which isn&#x27;t a forensic or financial audit, arrives a week after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the county discussed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/15/how-nixing-property-taxes-could-affect-hillsborough-county" data-vars-content-id="98d953c1-35d4-4179-a6a6-c9a6da604b44" data-vars-headline="Hillsborough DOGE targets county&#x27;s health care plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/15/how-nixing-property-taxes-could-affect-hillsborough-county" target="_self">the county discussed</a> how to offset the potential revenue loss from a constitutional amendment to overhaul Florida&#x27;s property tax system.

Inside New College's takeover of USF Sarasota-Manatee

The move would create a larger testing ground for Florida's conservative vision of higher education.

The University of South Florida&#x27;s Board of Trustees approved the transfer of its Sarasota-Manatee Campus to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New College of Florida" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/11/15/new-college-florida-desantis-transformation" data-vars-content-id="49b55314-9731-46c1-9dc7-e13b23dd323c" data-vars-headline="Inside New College&#x27;s takeover of USF Sarasota-Manatee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/11/15/new-college-florida-desantis-transformation" target="_self">New College of Florida</a> last week — a shakeup that has rattled alumni, donors and students. Why it matters: The deal would make New College of Florida an even larger testing ground for Florida&#x27;s conservative vision of higher education.

4 takeaways from St. Petersburg mayoral forum

Property taxes, Dump Duke and the future of Tropicana Field were among the issues that differentiated the six candidates.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Property taxes" 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="158c7de2-b3e1-48d4-a4c7-10dd1302ea97" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from St. Petersburg mayoral 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/2026/06/02/florida-puts-property-tax-overhaul-on-ballot-as-local-officials-sound-alarm" target="_self">Property taxes</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dump Duke" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/02/st-pete-duke-energy-city-council-feasibility-study" data-vars-content-id="158c7de2-b3e1-48d4-a4c7-10dd1302ea97" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from St. Petersburg mayoral 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/2026/06/02/st-pete-duke-energy-city-council-feasibility-study" target="_self">Dump Duke</a> and the future of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tropicana Field" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/04/22/st-pete-gas-plant-district-redevelopment-tropicana-field-open-house" data-vars-content-id="158c7de2-b3e1-48d4-a4c7-10dd1302ea97" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from St. Petersburg mayoral 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/2026/04/22/st-pete-gas-plant-district-redevelopment-tropicana-field-open-house" target="_self">Tropicana Field</a> were among the issues that set St. Petersburg&#x27;s mayoral hopefuls apart at a candidate forum last week.Why it matters: It&#x27;s one of just a few opportunities to hear from the slate of candidates before the Aug. 18 primary.<ul><li>You can watch a recording of the forum <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="here" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI7NCZls20E" data-vars-content-id="158c7de2-b3e1-48d4-a4c7-10dd1302ea97" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from St. Petersburg mayoral forum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI7NCZls20E" target="_blank">here</a>.</li></ul>

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.

How nixing property taxes could affect Hillsborough County

The county may have to consider layoffs, service cuts and new taxes.

Hillsborough County may have to consider layoffs, service cuts and new taxes if voters approve the state&#x27;s sweeping <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="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="1023ded2-ab09-4ad3-bef7-d5f9c9a7c0ce" data-vars-headline="How nixing property taxes could affect Hillsborough County" 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">property tax overhaul</a>. Why it matters: The county would lose an estimated $367 million in annual property tax revenue, money that had primarily gone toward the sheriff&#x27;s office, fire rescue, transportation, emergency management and parks.

Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over ChatGPT

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

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>.

$2 million and counting paid out in Charlie Kirk settlements

The settlements illustrate the limits employers can have in regulating their workers' political rhetoric.

At least $2 million in settlements has been agreed to after employees and other critics were fired or penalized over their posts about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Charlie Kirk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/16/charlie-kirk-show-fired-delta-american-airlines" data-vars-content-id="6558850d-e075-4c54-9c38-5ac50f64b960" data-vars-headline="$2 million and counting paid out in Charlie Kirk settlements" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/16/charlie-kirk-show-fired-delta-american-airlines" target="_self">Charlie Kirk</a> following his killing. Why it matters: The settlements illustrate the limits employers can have in regulating their workers&#x27; political rhetoric.

Burn bans complicate Fourth of July fireworks in parts of Florida

Florida is experiencing its busiest fire season in recent memory.

Florida won&#x27;t ban fireworks statewide on Independence Day, even as drought conditions persist.Why it matters: This is Florida&#x27;s busiest fire season in recent memory, with more than 2,400 wildfires recorded across the state over the last six months.

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Try your hand at our news quiz!Why it matters: Email us a screenshot of your perfect score to tampa@axios.com, and you could get a shout-out in a future newsletter.

What Florida should've put in America's time capsule, according to readers

We asked you what Florida should have buried in America&#x27;s Time Capsule. Y&#x27;all made one thing clear: &quot;Not challenge coins, pins, and booklets representing our governor, legislators and other leaders,&quot; Cindy L. wrote. <ul><li>&quot;It is not their memory that we should be memorializing.&quot;</li></ul>

Undocumented students could soon lose access to public higher ed in Florida

An estimated 8,000 undocumented students graduate from the state's high schools each year.

The Florida Board of Governors will take up a proposal on Wednesday that would bar <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="undocumented students" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/02/usf-tuition-increases-hit-undocumented-students-hardest" data-vars-content-id="5a27d3dc-36e0-4c1e-980d-fde6c7f64dfe" data-vars-headline="Undocumented students could soon lose access to public higher ed in Florida" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/02/usf-tuition-increases-hit-undocumented-students-hardest" target="_self">undocumented students</a> from enrolling in state universities that don&#x27;t accept all &quot;academically qualified&quot; students.Why it matters: It is the latest effort by the state to make higher education inaccessible to undocumented immigrants, many of whom were brought to Florida as children through no choice of their own.

Scoop: Pinellas commission won't recognize Pride Month

Not enough commissioners supported a proclamation commemorating the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

For the first time in several years, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride Month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/04/pinellas-pride-month-faith-family-proclamations" data-vars-content-id="82b22868-0036-46e1-b809-f159331fd1c4" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Pinellas commission won&#x27;t recognize Pride Month" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/04/pinellas-pride-month-faith-family-proclamations" target="_self">Pride Month</a> will go unrecognized by the Pinellas County Commission.<ul><li>That&#x27;s because not enough commissioners agreed to sign the ceremonial document commemorating the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, chair Dave Eggers confirmed to Axios.</li></ul>Why it matters: Such proclamations &quot;communicate whether LGBTQ+ residents are seen, valued and welcomed in their own communities,&quot; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PFLAG Safety Harbor/Greater Pinellas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/pflagsafetyharbor" data-vars-content-id="82b22868-0036-46e1-b809-f159331fd1c4" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Pinellas commission won&#x27;t recognize Pride Month" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/pflagsafetyharbor" target="_blank">PFLAG Safety Harbor/Greater Pinellas</a> president Wendy Vernon told Axios.

Florida could soon bar undocumented students from state colleges

The state college system could lose an estimated $15 million each year in tuition and fees.

The Florida Board of Education will meet this month to decide whether to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="adopt a new rule" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/02/usf-tuition-increases-hit-undocumented-students-hardest" data-vars-content-id="fe7491ad-db66-4d96-8d4a-e3ada03f33af" data-vars-headline="Florida could soon bar undocumented students from state colleges" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/02/02/usf-tuition-increases-hit-undocumented-students-hardest" target="_self">adopt a new rule</a> prohibiting undocumented immigrants from attending the state&#x27;s public colleges. Why it matters: Tuition at state-level colleges is much more affordable than at universities, and with undocumented immigrants no longer eligible for in-state tuition, these colleges may be their only chance at higher education.

"Corporate" Live Nation venue would mar Ybor's indie identity, residents say

The backlash comes as Crowbar, Ybor's last full-time independent music venue, prepares to close.

Crowbar owner Tom DeGeorge has raged against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Live Nation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/09/live-nation-ticketmaster-doj-settlement" data-vars-content-id="9b59b0a7-23a9-46ed-ac9a-c7c9f191b6be" data-vars-headline="&quot;Corporate&quot; Live Nation venue would mar Ybor&#x27;s indie identity, residents say" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/09/live-nation-ticketmaster-doj-settlement" target="_self">Live Nation</a> all the way to Washington, where he testified last month before Congress about how its growth has strained independent venues like his.<ul><li>So he was blindsided, but not surprised, when he learned the entertainment giant was planning a move into his backyard.</li></ul>Why it matters: DeGeorge is among a growing contingent of Ybor residents protesting the proposed Live Nation venue — and what it represents about the historic neighborhood&#x27;s changing identity.

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.

Tampa weekend events: Car shows, boat rides and Father's Day deals

Here are a few ways to spend  the weekend.

The weekend is fast approaching.<ul><li>Here are a few ways to spend it.</li></ul>

Where to watch World Cup games

Several venues and bars are planning watch parties.

The World Cup kicks off this Thursday, and what better way to get in the spirit than watching with your neighbors at a local haunt? <ul><li>Here are some spots to catch the games:</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>

Tampa weekend events: Vintage market, murder mystery dinner and more

Here are a few more ways to spend the days ahead.

Mother&#x27;s Day may be the headline this weekend, but it&#x27;s far from the only thing happening around Tampa.<ul><li>Here are a few more ways to spend the days ahead.</li></ul>

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

<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.

Climate

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.

NOAA forecasts quieter hurricane season but warns: Prepare now

Officials expect fewer Atlantic storms in 2026 but stress even one hurricane can be devastating.

This year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Atlantic hurricane season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/05/20/national-hurricane-center-updates-cone-of-uncertainty" data-vars-content-id="4e960f27-3540-4289-86b1-f9c435955f39" data-vars-headline="NOAA forecasts quieter hurricane season but warns: Prepare now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/05/20/national-hurricane-center-updates-cone-of-uncertainty" target="_self">Atlantic hurricane season</a> is expected to be below average in storm activity for the first time in more than a decade, NOAA meteorologists said Thursday in their annual forecast.Why it matters: Residents should still take the season seriously and prepare now, officials stressed.<ul><li>&quot;It&#x27;s very important to understand that it only takes one,&quot; NOAA administrator Neil Jacobs told reporters.</li></ul>

How to prep for hurricane season 2026

Scouting for supplies now can save you headaches later.

It&#x27;s National Hurricane Preparedness Week — which unfortunately means <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this year&#x27;s storm season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/04/13/2026-hurricane-season-somewhat-below-normal-storm-activity" data-vars-content-id="c29986b0-2685-44d4-be9b-ee26061cc9e9" data-vars-headline="How to prep for hurricane season 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/04/13/2026-hurricane-season-somewhat-below-normal-storm-activity" target="_self">this year&#x27;s storm season</a> is not far behind.Why it matters: Scouting for supplies now can save you headaches later.

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>

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>

A long-overdue dinner at Tampa's award-winning Rocca

We went to see what all the hype was about.

We were already feeling sheepish about not having tried Rocca when it was awarded a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin star" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/12/michelin-restaurants-florida-tampa-bay" data-vars-content-id="17d56f80-7650-4f3f-aa89-f5c6a1722a81" data-vars-headline="A long-overdue dinner at Tampa&#x27;s award-winning Rocca" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/12/michelin-restaurants-florida-tampa-bay" target="_self">Michelin star</a> in 2023.<ul><li>Then, in March, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Beard Awards named" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/31/bryce-bonsack-rocca-named-james-beard-finalist" data-vars-content-id="17d56f80-7650-4f3f-aa89-f5c6a1722a81" data-vars-headline="A long-overdue dinner at Tampa&#x27;s award-winning Rocca" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/31/bryce-bonsack-rocca-named-james-beard-finalist" target="_self">James Beard Awards named</a> owner Bryce Bonsack a finalist in the Best Chef: South category. We made a reservation that day.</li></ul>

Rays return to Tropicana Field: Where to eat

There are tons of food and drink options within walking distance of the ballpark.

Air-conditioning has to be the biggest perk of returning to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tropicana Field" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/04/01/st-petersburg-historic-gas-plant-whats-next-ken-welch" data-vars-content-id="e40fadb6-bc9c-4154-8f04-b00c331f99ca" data-vars-headline="Rays return to Tropicana Field: Where to eat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/04/01/st-petersburg-historic-gas-plant-whats-next-ken-welch" target="_self">Tropicana Field</a>.<ul><li>But a close second is all of the food and drink options within walking distance of the ballpark.</li></ul>

Rocca's Bryce Bonsack named James Beard finalist

That makes Bonsack eligible to win the entire Best Chef: South category during the awards ceremony in June.

Chef <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bryce Bonsack" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/01/21/james-beard-awards-chef-bryce-bonsack-rocca" data-vars-content-id="14a87bb9-280a-4e8c-9ace-09880694c4ce" data-vars-headline="Rocca&#x27;s Bryce Bonsack named James Beard finalist" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/01/21/james-beard-awards-chef-bryce-bonsack-rocca" target="_self">Bryce Bonsack</a> broke Tampa Bay&#x27;s years-long drought of James Beard Awards recognition when he was named a semifinalist in January.Why it matters: On Tuesday, he took the Oscars for the American hospitality industry to the next level:

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