What famous pirate used Tampa Bay as a base for his operations in the early 1800s?

Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida's highest graduation rate of 92.2% for the 2024-25 school year during his State of the State address.

Several Tampa Bay-area school districts also achieved record high graduation rates.

Hillsborough County saw a 90.9% graduation rate, with Tampa Bay Tech High School leading at 99.1%.

Pinellas County reached a 93.4% graduation rate, surpassing the state average, with Palm Harbor University at 100%.

Polk County achieved an 87.7% graduation rate, a 5.5% increase from the previous year.

Sarasota County saw a 94.3% graduation rate, with Pine View School and State College of Florida Collegiate School - Venice both at 100%.

Raymond James Stadium in Tampa is set to make history on February 1, 2026, as it welcomes the Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series for the first outdoor hockey game in a Florida football stadium.

 

The Tampa Bay Lightning will battle the Boston Bruins under the lights, creating an unforgettable spectacle for local hockey fans.

 

Festivities begin at 1:00 p.m. ET with the NHL PreGame fan festival in Parking Lots 5 and 7, offering fans a chance to take photos with the iconic Stanley Cup and enjoy interactive games.

 

Country music duo LOCASH will deliver a high-energy live performance, amping up the excitement before the puck drops at 6:30 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets are required for entry, and fans should note the stadium’s strict no-bag policy and early parking options, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for all in attendance.

Ulele is a standout gem in our community, beautifully situated on the scenic Tampa Riverwalk in historic Tampa Heights. This unique restaurant celebrates Florida’s native spirit, offering an imaginative menu inspired by the ingredients and flavors once enjoyed by the area's first inhabitants.

 

From delicious charbroiled oysters cooked on their famous barbacoa grill to fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes, every plate tells a story of our region’s vibrant heritage. It's a perfect spot for a family dinner or a special occasion, complete with its own on-site brewery and stunning riverside views that truly capture the heart of Tampa.

 

This spotlight is presented by Ulele. Why not explore their one-of-a-kind flavors for yourself? See the menu and plan your visit to this local treasure.

Florida is preparing for a rare cold outbreak this weekend, with temperatures set to drop well below seasonal norms.

 

Tampa Bay will see highs only in the 50s and lows dipping into the upper 30s, while inland areas like East Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pasco County face a freeze watch as temperatures could fall into the 20s.

 

Pinellas County is opening cold shelters Thursday night to help residents facing frigid conditions.

 

Forecast models hint at a slim chance of snow flurries in the Florida Panhandle on Sunday morning, an event nearly unheard of for the state.

 

Recalling January 2025’s extraordinary snowstorm, some northern areas saw record snow totals, briefly closing Interstate 10.

 

While snow remains unlikely, residents should monitor updates and take precautions as the cold snap could still bring dangerous freeze conditions.

Q&A Questions

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Tampa?

A: Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and the Tampa Riverwalk are all popular attractions in Tampa.

Q: What is the weather like in Tampa throughout the year?

A: Tampa has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Q: Are there any professional sports teams in Tampa?

A: Yes, Tampa is home to several professional sports teams, including the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, MLB's Tampa Bay Rays, and NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning.

José Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla.