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National

OpenAI courts Trump administration as its latest investor

The proposal comes as the government is deciding when the AI lab can release its most powerful models due to security concerns.

Technology

OpenAI may give the U.S. government a 5% stake in the company, per the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Financial Times" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ft.com/content/7c803eab-8e80-4431-9a87-e943bf00e00b?accessToken=zwAAAZ8jH94Hkc98gD6rjoBEMdOah-lDvwDgCw.MEQCIDs8Drq2784t9EO7dNO60tKqNy-axAWfV0SYDxQtxlUPAiBhUdyW47NO2oXPJ-ifp6vV4YJNWo7wYlOSuwYdcYClPQ&amp;sharetype=gift&amp;token=d72303a2-2849-404f-9115-d89370c60588&amp;syn-25a6b1a6=1" data-vars-content-id="46d501c4-8faf-4406-83e9-6e8091d63f52" data-vars-headline="OpenAI courts Trump administration as its latest investor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ft.com/content/7c803eab-8e80-4431-9a87-e943bf00e00b?accessToken=zwAAAZ8jH94Hkc98gD6rjoBEMdOah-lDvwDgCw.MEQCIDs8Drq2784t9EO7dNO60tKqNy-axAWfV0SYDxQtxlUPAiBhUdyW47NO2oXPJ-ifp6vV4YJNWo7wYlOSuwYdcYClPQ&amp;sharetype=gift&amp;token=d72303a2-2849-404f-9115-d89370c60588&amp;syn-25a6b1a6=1" target="_blank">Financial Times</a>. The proposal is in very preliminary conversations, according to a person familiar with the matter.Why it matters: If the overture is taken up by the Trump administration, that would mean the government would have a vested interest in weighing whether or not to limit the release of an OpenAI model.

Jobs report gives labor market a yellow card

Hiring has remained concentrated in a handful of industries, leaving fewer opportunities for Americans looking to switch jobs or reenter the workforce.

Economy

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="job" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/economy/jobs" data-vars-content-id="c8c821f2-a805-4040-973c-9b751f349814" data-vars-headline="Jobs report gives labor market a yellow card" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/economy/jobs" target="_self">job</a> market entered the summer with less momentum than looked to be the case just a month ago.Why it matters: Call it a yellow card for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="labor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/economy/jobs" data-vars-content-id="c8c821f2-a805-4040-973c-9b751f349814" data-vars-headline="Jobs report gives labor market a yellow card" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/economy/jobs" target="_self">labor</a> market. Thursday morning&#x27;s employment report doesn&#x27;t undo three months of stronger hiring, but it does warn that the rebound is less durable than first thought.

Olympian indicted for allegedly vandalizing Reflecting Pool

It's the first indictment prosecutors have secured since the Reflecting Pool reopened.

Politics & Policy

Former Olympic canoeist David Hearn was indicted Thursday for destroying property after he allegedly reached into Washington D.C.&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/21/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation-vandalism-fix-dc" data-vars-content-id="09373346-df9a-456c-9366-12201a82cb8d" data-vars-headline="Olympian indicted for allegedly vandalizing Reflecting Pool" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/21/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation-vandalism-fix-dc" target="_self">Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool</a>, per a bench warrant reviewed by Axios. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the first indictment prosecutors have secured since President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="09373346-df9a-456c-9366-12201a82cb8d" data-vars-headline="Olympian indicted for allegedly vandalizing Reflecting Pool" 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</a> asserted that vandals had damaged D.C.&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reflecting pool" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/21/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation-vandalism-fix-dc" data-vars-content-id="09373346-df9a-456c-9366-12201a82cb8d" data-vars-headline="Olympian indicted for allegedly vandalizing Reflecting Pool" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/21/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation-vandalism-fix-dc" target="_self">reflecting pool</a> shortly after it underwent a $14 million upgrade.

The World Cup's hiring head fake

Leisure and hospitality employment, which includes restaurant and hotel employment and is most sensitive to tourism trends, fell by 61,000 jobs in June.

With the U.S. hosting the World Cup, there have been plenty of anecdotes about a booming tourism economy in host cities — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scotland fans drinking Boston bars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/06/17/scotland-boston-running-out-of-beer-world-cup" data-vars-content-id="ad1245aa-cca5-4765-9f2b-94fcc6644be0" data-vars-headline="The World Cup&#x27;s hiring head fake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/06/17/scotland-boston-running-out-of-beer-world-cup" target="_self">Scotland fans drinking Boston bars</a> out of beer, for example.<ul><li>But no World Cup hiring bump is evident in the June employment data.</li></ul>By the numbers: Leisure and hospitality employment fell by 61,000 jobs in June. That&#x27;s the category that includes restaurant and hotel employment and is most sensitive to tourism trends.

America's 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans

Extreme heat and dry vegetation are forcing cities to rethink holiday fireworks.

Firework associations expect a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="massive boom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/29/usa-250-fireworks-small-town-costs" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/29/usa-250-fireworks-small-town-costs" target="_self">massive boom</a> in backyard fireworks this July 4, a surge that collides with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dry conditions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/01/triangle-july-fourth-fireworks-drought-burn-ban-wildfire-risk" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/01/triangle-july-fourth-fireworks-drought-burn-ban-wildfire-risk" target="_self">dry conditions</a> and a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="blistering heatwave" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/26/heat-wave-dome-july" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" 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">blistering heatwave</a> that could drastically increase the risk of fires.Why it matters: Climate change is increasing the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="likelihood" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/08/14/climate-change-extreme-wildfire-season" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/08/14/climate-change-extreme-wildfire-season" target="_self">likelihood</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="severity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/10/07/wildfire-smoke-deaths-climate-study-california" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/10/07/wildfire-smoke-deaths-climate-study-california" target="_self">severity</a> of wildfires, and large chunks of the U.S. are under <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burn bans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.blm.gov/programs/fire/fire-restrictions" data-vars-content-id="34442983-20cf-4025-b284-dd0ebc5185fa" data-vars-headline="America&#x27;s 250th fireworks party collides with burn-bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/fire/fire-restrictions" target="_blank">burn bans</a> because of severe drought.

Laws taking effect in Florida on July 1

More than a hundred laws passed during this year's legislative session will take effect.

News

More than a hundred laws passed during <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this year&#x27;s legislative session" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/17/floridas-legislative-session-ends-with-little-to-show-for-it" data-vars-content-id="9bde5d1c-6e30-4430-a8c4-6da8c885c382" data-vars-headline="Laws taking effect in Florida on July 1" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/17/floridas-legislative-session-ends-with-little-to-show-for-it" target="_self">this year&#x27;s legislative session</a> will take effect when the calendar flips to July 1.Why it matters: The laws reach into wallets, classrooms and neighborhoods — shielding ratepayers from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/22/ai-data-center-backlash-poll" data-vars-content-id="9bde5d1c-6e30-4430-a8c4-6da8c885c382" data-vars-headline="Laws taking effect in Florida on July 1" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/22/ai-data-center-backlash-poll" target="_self">data center</a> utility costs, changing graduation requirements and preempting local power over gas-powered leaf blowers.

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.

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>.

DeSantis nixes Tampa Bay's storm hardening funds

Here's what the governor vetoed from the state budget.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the last state <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="budget" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/27/florida-budget-tampa-bay-rays-stadium-hillsborough-college" data-vars-content-id="45ac579d-44fd-4f27-908c-a747a4b32c0b" data-vars-headline="DeSantis nixes Tampa Bay&#x27;s storm hardening funds" 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/florida-budget-tampa-bay-rays-stadium-hillsborough-college" target="_self">budget</a> of his tenure Monday, but not without more than $800 million in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="line-item vetoes" data-vars-click-url="https://flgov.com/eog/sites/default/files/shared/2026/06/2026%20Veto%20List.pdf" data-vars-content-id="45ac579d-44fd-4f27-908c-a747a4b32c0b" data-vars-headline="DeSantis nixes Tampa Bay&#x27;s storm hardening funds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://flgov.com/eog/sites/default/files/shared/2026/06/2026%20Veto%20List.pdf" target="_blank">line-item vetoes</a>.Why it matters: Left on the cutting-room floor was nearly $5 million to harden buildings against hurricanes and make roadways more resilient to flooding in unincorporated Pinellas County, Tampa and Clearwater.

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.

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.

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.

Business

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.

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>

Inside St. Pete mayor's reported Tropicana Field redevelopment picks

An announcement is scheduled for Thursday morning.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch selected Blake Investment Partners to redevelop <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="dc06d623-97dd-4031-876a-2ecc59e1c24d" data-vars-headline="Inside St. Pete mayor&#x27;s reported Tropicana Field redevelopment picks" 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>, several news outlets reported.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a major step forward for the city&#x27;s most consequential piece of land and for Welch&#x27;s campaign promise to remake the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Historic Gas Plant District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/02/10/razed-documentary-gas-plant-st-petersburg" data-vars-content-id="dc06d623-97dd-4031-876a-2ecc59e1c24d" data-vars-headline="Inside St. Pete mayor&#x27;s reported Tropicana Field redevelopment picks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/02/10/razed-documentary-gas-plant-st-petersburg" target="_self">Historic Gas Plant District</a>.<ul><li>But the issue is far from settled. Any plans are subject to City Council approval, and the results of the upcoming mayoral election could upend the process. </li></ul>

Florida's top Fourth of July searches are extremely on-brand

Floridians are looking for pool parties, patriotic bikinis and tips on decorating golf carts.

This Fourth of July, Floridians are looking for pool parties, patriotic bikinis and tips on decorating golf carts.<ul><li>Here&#x27;s a look at our top Google searches. </li></ul>

USF calls for better security at off-campus housing

The announcement comes after two of its students were murdered in April.

The University of South Florida will urge off-campus housing providers to adopt stricter safeguards after two of its students were <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="murdered" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/08/slain-usf-students-honored-doctorate-commencement" data-vars-content-id="37de4599-0210-4e98-af70-110876ec8ab0" data-vars-headline="USF calls for better security at off-campus housing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/08/slain-usf-students-honored-doctorate-commencement" target="_self">murdered</a> in April.Why it matters: USF cannot control conditions at private properties, so it is using access to its Off-Campus Housing Network as leverage to encourage landlords to improve security and communication.

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.

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>

Where St. Pete mayor candidates stand on DEI

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

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>

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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>

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

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.

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>

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>

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>

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

Inside St. Pete mayor's reported Tropicana Field redevelopment picks

Florida's top Fourth of July searches are extremely on-brand

USF calls for better security at off-campus housing

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