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National

How Trump's signature issue fell off voters' radar

It's another headache for the GOP heading into November.

Politics & Policy

Immigration — the issue that helped propel Donald Trump to the presidency and rally his supporters over the past decade — has become an afterthought for voters.Why it matters: It&#x27;s another ominous sign for Trump and the GOP heading toward November. What was once a rallying cry for the party is losing salience with voters across the spectrum — and harsh crackdowns have even made it a liability among some Republicans.

PAC spent $131 million in 17 days to rescue Paxton in Texas Senate race

The scandal-plagued Republican has massive funding edge over Democrat Talarico, reports show.

The new Texas PAC spent a staggering $131 million in just 17 days to boost Republican <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ken Paxton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/07/16/cornyn-paxton-talarico-fundraising-texas-senate" data-vars-content-id="5842e212-f0a1-4a0a-aa6c-569ec4651340" data-vars-headline="PAC spent $131 million in 17 days to rescue Paxton in Texas Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/07/16/cornyn-paxton-talarico-fundraising-texas-senate" target="_self">Ken Paxton</a> in his battle for a U.S. Senate seat, new financial reports reveal. And tens of millions more could be on the way.Why it matters: The political environment is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bad across the country for GOP " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/26/trump-republicans-midterm-election-house-senate" data-vars-content-id="5842e212-f0a1-4a0a-aa6c-569ec4651340" data-vars-headline="PAC spent $131 million in 17 days to rescue Paxton in Texas Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/26/trump-republicans-midterm-election-house-senate" target="_self">bad across the country for GOP </a>candidates, but Paxton&#x27;s numerous <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="scandals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebarbedwire.com/ken-paxton-scandal-timeline/" data-vars-content-id="5842e212-f0a1-4a0a-aa6c-569ec4651340" data-vars-headline="PAC spent $131 million in 17 days to rescue Paxton in Texas Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebarbedwire.com/ken-paxton-scandal-timeline/" target="_blank">scandals</a> have left him particularly vulnerable to becoming the first Republican to lose a statewide race in Texas in more than three decades.

Trump, Big AI go all-in together

Neither Trump nor the AI titans have plausible deniability if things go wrong.

Technology

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="6b94880b-8af9-4240-8752-c9bc146a9df0" data-vars-headline="Trump, Big AI go all-in together" 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> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/30/ai-constitution-trump-white-house" data-vars-content-id="6b94880b-8af9-4240-8752-c9bc146a9df0" data-vars-headline="Trump, Big AI go all-in together" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/30/ai-constitution-trump-white-house" target="_self">AI industry</a> have co-signed one of the biggest economic and technological wagers of all time.<ul><li>If it goes right: A new age of abundance — explosive productivity, staggering wealth and a generational leap in American power.</li><li>If it goes wrong: A catastrophic bust that destroys capital, jobs and, in the words of several involved, threatens <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="widespread human harm" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/09/anthropic-ai-human-extinction-pdoom-safety-risks" data-vars-content-id="6b94880b-8af9-4240-8752-c9bc146a9df0" data-vars-headline="Trump, Big AI go all-in together" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/09/anthropic-ai-human-extinction-pdoom-safety-risks" target="_self">widespread human harm</a>. </li></ul>Why it matters: Neither Trump nor the AI titans have plausible deniability. Their fortunes have become so tightly bound that success will be shared — and failure impossible to disown.

Nashville

Christa Pike hospitalized after failed execution attempt

Christa Pike hospitalized after failed TN execution attempt

"We have a lot of questions about what we saw and what we did not see."

News

Death row inmate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Christa Pike" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/30/christa-pike-execution-stayed-appeals-court" data-vars-content-id="061853ae-993b-49c7-96fb-c56817325e58" data-vars-headline="Christa Pike hospitalized after failed execution attempt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/30/christa-pike-execution-stayed-appeals-court" target="_self">Christa Pike</a> was still alive after getting two rounds of lethal injection drugs at a Nashville prison Wednesday night, her attorneys said in court filings.<ul><li>Media witnesses who watched the lethal injection process said Pike was still breathing when the warden told them to leave at 8:53pm.</li><li>An ambulance left the prison grounds while they were describing their experience at a press conference outside. Sirens wailed while they talked.</li></ul>

Trump's economic polling sinks, rivaling Biden's worst

Trump is running out of time to convince voters the economy is stronger than sentiment suggests.

Economy

Americans overwhelmingly disapprove of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="da842843-42d5-4e39-a70c-0a598fc84bf8" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s economic polling sinks, rivaling Biden&#x27;s worst" 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">President Trump&#x27;s</a> handling of the economy, reaching levels that rival some of the worst of former president Biden&#x27;s term, per a new AP-NORC poll out Thursday.Why it matters: The economy is stronger than sentiment suggests, but time is running short for the president and his administration to convince highly skeptical voters of that.

5 laws going into effect in Florida on Oct. 1

October is just around the corner, bringing with it several new laws passed during this year's legislative session.

Politics

October is just around the corner, bringing with it several new laws passed during this year&#x27;s legislative session.Why it matters: These laws change how the state identifies criminal gang members, expand registration requirements for career offenders and increase penalties for animal cruelty.<ul><li>Here&#x27;s what to know.</li></ul>

St. Pete mayor race: Welch, Crist sharpen contrasts at forum

St. Petersburg voters have just over a month left to decide who they want to lead the city for the next four years.

Tensions deepened between Mayor Ken Welch and former Gov. Charlie Crist in the first public forum attended by both candidates since the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="primary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/08/19/welch-crist-appear-headed-to-runoff-for-st-pete-mayor" data-vars-content-id="db048086-50c3-4f16-ae9c-a44eedbfaec6" data-vars-headline="St. Pete mayor race: Welch, Crist sharpen contrasts at 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/2026/08/19/welch-crist-appear-headed-to-runoff-for-st-pete-mayor" target="_self">primary</a>. Why it matters: With mail ballots set to go out this week, St. Petersburg voters have just over a month left to decide who they want to lead the city for the next four years.<ul><li>They&#x27;ll <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="square off again Oct. 13" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/elections/2026/09/23/st-petersburg-mayor-debate-welch-crist-bay-news-9/" data-vars-content-id="db048086-50c3-4f16-ae9c-a44eedbfaec6" data-vars-headline="St. Pete mayor race: Welch, Crist sharpen contrasts at forum" 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/2026/09/23/st-petersburg-mayor-debate-welch-crist-bay-news-9/" target="_blank">square off again Oct. 13</a> in a televised debate hosted by Bay News 9. Unlike Friday&#x27;s forum, questions won&#x27;t be shared with the candidates in advance.</li></ul>

Take the Axios Tampa Bay news quiz!

How well did you follow this week's news?

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.

A "toddler rave" is coming to Tampa Bay

DJ Lenny Pearce is coming to St. Petersburg's Mahaffey Theater on Nov. 12.

Culture

Picture this: A concert venue filled with glow sticks, dance beats — and tiny hands in the air.<ul><li>That&#x27;s a &quot;Toddler Rave,&quot; and it&#x27;s Australian DJ Lenny Pearce&#x27;s show about to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tour the country" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/lenny-pearce-tickets/artist/3598894?landing=c&amp;awtrc=true&amp;c=SEM_TMMCONCERTS_ggl_23980377564_198956346418_lenny%20pearce%20dates&amp;GCID=0&amp;gclsrcshybbb=aw.ds&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23980377564&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAD_KsMKtKhJ-4l0i-JGUEamukNM76&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwkt_UBhDMARIsALpnOAwOjvePx74Z5Zzb9p1wlcrUWpWwA0e_EWq47vOYjMCyOWL_g6eHxwAaAkKbEALw_wcB" data-vars-content-id="83a68cb1-b61e-4bfb-ba27-e764331808ca" data-vars-headline="A &quot;toddler rave&quot; is coming to Tampa Bay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/lenny-pearce-tickets/artist/3598894?landing=c&amp;awtrc=true&amp;c=SEM_TMMCONCERTS_ggl_23980377564_198956346418_lenny%20pearce%20dates&amp;GCID=0&amp;gclsrcshybbb=aw.ds&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23980377564&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAD_KsMKtKhJ-4l0i-JGUEamukNM76&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwkt_UBhDMARIsALpnOAwOjvePx74Z5Zzb9p1wlcrUWpWwA0e_EWq47vOYjMCyOWL_g6eHxwAaAkKbEALw_wcB" target="_blank">tour the country</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>

Historic Mirror Lake home hits the market in St. Petersburg

The $3.5 million home was built by architect Cade Allen, who helped design the Allendale neighborhood.

Real Estate

The last single-family home on St. Pete&#x27;s Mirror Lake is for sale after an extensive renovation. Why it matters: It&#x27;s an example of preservation in a city that has experienced rapid new development, sometimes <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="at the expense of historic buildings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/09/st-petersburg-luxury-roche-bobois-private-clubs-art" data-vars-content-id="ddae35d4-2a1d-4b70-acc2-1c7d2cb51911" data-vars-headline="Historic Mirror Lake home hits the market in St. Petersburg" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/03/09/st-petersburg-luxury-roche-bobois-private-clubs-art" target="_self">at the expense of historic buildings</a>.

More Tampa Bay home sellers turn into "accidental landlords"

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

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.

Council backs controversial South Tampa flood project 

The South Howard Flood Relief Project has drawn fierce opposition from local businesses.

The Tampa City Council voted 4-3 to deliver a long-awaited fix for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Tampa&#x27;s flooding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/06/05/flooding-alarms-south-tampa-after-quick-storm" data-vars-content-id="c09ac534-3d99-4642-822a-21bb2e101cc7" data-vars-headline="Council backs controversial South Tampa flood project " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/06/05/flooding-alarms-south-tampa-after-quick-storm" target="_self">South Tampa&#x27;s flooding</a>.Why it matters: The South Howard Flood Relief Project has drawn fierce opposition from local businesses, some of which warn they cannot survive the years of construction needed to complete it.

Miami

Mapped: Florida's next data centers — and the power they'll need

Today's data centers can consume double the power of their predecessors, and more powerful ones are planned within the next few years.

Business

Florida is expected to have about a dozen large data centers by the end of 2026.<ul><li>The eight planned in future years would increase today&#x27;s 51.2 MW capacity by more than 100 times, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="records" data-vars-click-url="https://cleanview.co/data-centers/us" data-vars-content-id="7d9bf278-4237-4619-bb83-78ea4b620cf9" data-vars-headline="Mapped: Florida&#x27;s next data centers — and the power they&#x27;ll need" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cleanview.co/data-centers/us" target="_blank">records</a> analyzed by market intelligence company Cleanview.</li></ul>

Tampa Bay businesses are getting called out for "AI slop"

Small businesses say AI saves time and money. Critics say the generic images come at a cost.

It&#x27;s a debate so prolific that even our unusually vocal airport <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="weighed in" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/FlyTPA/posts/pfbid02ueoedz83x5jVKmKZeQ32vBTMgHzAep1AgcNiAkDLQHUQmo71eWrE7BLbirE6pFRdl" data-vars-content-id="1aea7e87-8bd7-4518-8260-a6410bae4b15" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay businesses are getting called out for &quot;AI slop&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/FlyTPA/posts/pfbid02ueoedz83x5jVKmKZeQ32vBTMgHzAep1AgcNiAkDLQHUQmo71eWrE7BLbirE6pFRdl" target="_blank">weighed in</a>: What do we do about the AI flyers?Why it matters: From local breweries and markets to your friendly neighborhood landscaper, posters made with generative AI are clogging up social media.<ul><li>And <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the backlash is real" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/08/generative-ai-accusations-hank-green-jerry-falade" data-vars-content-id="1aea7e87-8bd7-4518-8260-a6410bae4b15" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay businesses are getting called out for &quot;AI slop&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/08/generative-ai-accusations-hank-green-jerry-falade" target="_self">the backlash is real</a>: in comment sections, in Reddit threads, and in the feeds of other organizations that broadcast — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="using more primitive methods" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdEuXOjFrvE/?img_index=1" data-vars-content-id="1aea7e87-8bd7-4518-8260-a6410bae4b15" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay businesses are getting called out for &quot;AI slop&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdEuXOjFrvE/?img_index=1" target="_blank">using more primitive methods</a> — that they&#x27;ll never resort to AI images.</li></ul>

Pinellas weekend events: Taste of the Beaches, Largo Vibe Fest, Spookyzarre

Things to Do

Celebrate the start of a new month with these events in and around St. Pete.🧘 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Yoga on the Pitch: Rowdies Recharge" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gofevo.com/event/26Yoga" data-vars-content-id="fb98ca07-6e3f-418b-a7db-fd08a08b0d57" data-vars-headline="Pinellas weekend events: Taste of the Beaches, Largo Vibe Fest, Spookyzarre" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gofevo.com/event/26Yoga" target="_blank">Yoga on the Pitch: Rowdies Recharge</a>, St. Pete: Start your Saturday with a yoga session on the field at Al Lang Stadium, followed by a social with mimosas, snacks and more<ul><li>Saturday, 8:30-10am at Al Lang Stadium. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gofevo.com/event/26Yoga" data-vars-content-id="fb98ca07-6e3f-418b-a7db-fd08a08b0d57" data-vars-headline="Pinellas weekend events: Taste of the Beaches, Largo Vibe Fest, Spookyzarre" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gofevo.com/event/26Yoga" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $36.94 and include admission to Saturday night&#x27;s Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Miami FC match.</li></ul>

Fort De Soto, Sand Key and Fred Howard parking set to increase

The county is replacing its $6 day rate with $3.50-per-hour parking capped at $12.

The cost of parking is set to increase at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pinellas County" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/09/09/pinellas-county-commission-budget-cuts-social-action-funding" data-vars-content-id="575885b9-1e2a-47d6-8254-5d3d64272187" data-vars-headline="Fort De Soto, Sand Key and Fred Howard parking set to increase" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/09/09/pinellas-county-commission-budget-cuts-social-action-funding" target="_self">Pinellas County</a>&#x27;s beach parks.Why it matters: The $6 day rate at Fort De Soto, Fred Howard and Sand Key parks was the last bastion of affordable beach parking <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="as coastal cities up rates" data-vars-click-url="http://reddit.com" data-vars-content-id="575885b9-1e2a-47d6-8254-5d3d64272187" data-vars-headline="Fort De Soto, Sand Key and Fred Howard parking set to increase" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://reddit.com" target="_blank">as coastal cities up rates</a> to fund drainage and sewer system upgrades.

Florida asks for order to halt ChatGPT development

Florida's attorney general says the company doesn't have the ability to properly regulate its own technology.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has asked for a temporary injunction against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="OpenAI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/18/openai-pause-astra-preparedness-framework" data-vars-content-id="7f74bcd9-a50d-4e53-b301-d54ce479f1f5" data-vars-headline="Florida asks for order to halt ChatGPT development" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/18/openai-pause-astra-preparedness-framework" target="_self">OpenAI</a> and ChatGPT, claiming the company doesn&#x27;t have the ability to properly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="regulate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/28/ai-industry-unions-data-centers" data-vars-content-id="7f74bcd9-a50d-4e53-b301-d54ce479f1f5" data-vars-headline="Florida asks for order to halt ChatGPT development" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/28/ai-industry-unions-data-centers" target="_self">regulate</a> its own technology.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="legal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/sites/default/files/plaintiffs_motion_for_temporary_injunction.pdf" data-vars-content-id="7f74bcd9-a50d-4e53-b301-d54ce479f1f5" data-vars-headline="Florida asks for order to halt ChatGPT development" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/sites/default/files/plaintiffs_motion_for_temporary_injunction.pdf" target="_blank">legal</a> fight could further test how far states can go to restrict <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" data-vars-content-id="7f74bcd9-a50d-4e53-b301-d54ce479f1f5" data-vars-headline="Florida asks for order to halt ChatGPT development" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" target="_self">AI</a> companies despite the federal government declining to enact guardrails.

Florida lightning activity surges 28% above average

The Sunshine State is seeing unusually high activity, the Washington Post reported.

We all remember that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="summer storm back in August" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/MattDevittWX/status/2102814783527633038" data-vars-content-id="91165019-eb92-48b4-a9f8-b3be7851233f" data-vars-headline="Florida lightning activity surges 28% above average" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/MattDevittWX/status/2102814783527633038" target="_blank">summer storm back in August</a> that felt like the sky was a giant strobe light.Why it matters: Turns out, Florida has seen more lightning than usual so far this year, the Washington Post <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2026/09/22/lightning-claims-lives-florida-experts-warn-supercharged-activity/" data-vars-content-id="91165019-eb92-48b4-a9f8-b3be7851233f" data-vars-headline="Florida lightning activity surges 28% above average" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2026/09/22/lightning-claims-lives-florida-experts-warn-supercharged-activity/" target="_blank">reported</a> this week.

Hillsborough Schools seek renewal of half-cent sales tax

Voters in Hillsborough County will have several big questions before them in November.

Hillsborough County Public Schools is counting on voters to renew a half-cent sales tax that, if approved, is expected to yield between $121 million and $131 million a year for maintenance. Why it matters: Keeping <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hillsborough County&#x27;s schools" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/08/26/how-hillsborough-and-pinellas-schools-plan-to-use-ai" data-vars-content-id="8a12ef5d-f105-4771-ba02-6ac4bf649897" data-vars-headline="Hillsborough Schools seek renewal of half-cent sales tax" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/08/26/how-hillsborough-and-pinellas-schools-plan-to-use-ai" target="_self">Hillsborough County&#x27;s schools</a> in good repair is no small feat, and it comes with a steep price tag for the third-largest district in Florida and seventh-largest in the nation.

Pinellas moves to preserve waterfront land once eyed for development

The WK Preservation Group, the nonprofit behind the West Klosterman Preserve, helped broker the deal.

The nonprofit that spearheaded <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the creation of a 14-acre nature preserve" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/08/26/west-klosterman-nature-preserve-pinellas" data-vars-content-id="6028b76a-1602-4315-9f8f-99196d576a35" data-vars-headline="Pinellas moves to preserve waterfront land once eyed for development" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2024/08/26/west-klosterman-nature-preserve-pinellas" target="_self">the creation of a 14-acre nature preserve</a> last year in Pinellas County is onto its next project.Why it matters: County officials are nearing a deal to buy and preserve 29 acres of environmentally significant land on Boca Ciega Bay, according to WK Preservation Group, which helped broker the deal.

Florida Orchestra poised to take over St. Pete's Mahaffey Theater

Live Nation, Vinik Sports Group and others also pitched the city on taking over the theater.

The Florida Orchestra is on track to become the next operator of St. Petersburg&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mahaffey Theater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/01/st-pete-mahaffey-theater-bid-rejected-new-rfp" data-vars-content-id="7a332d5b-6839-4b22-9242-4de96c9a4863" data-vars-headline="Florida Orchestra poised to take over St. Pete&#x27;s Mahaffey Theater" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/01/st-pete-mahaffey-theater-bid-rejected-new-rfp" target="_self">Mahaffey Theater</a>. Why it matters: The arrangement would give the orchestra a home base, resolving concerns over the future of the cultural institution.<ul><li>But it also skips <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a second round of bidding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/01/st-pete-mahaffey-theater-bid-rejected-new-rfp" data-vars-content-id="7a332d5b-6839-4b22-9242-4de96c9a4863" data-vars-headline="Florida Orchestra poised to take over St. Pete&#x27;s Mahaffey Theater" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/01/st-pete-mahaffey-theater-bid-rejected-new-rfp" target="_self">a second round of bidding</a> despite interest from entertainment players including Vinik Sports Group, Live Nation and Ruth Eckerd Hall.</li></ul>

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to St. Petersburg

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="a76dc104-5dfa-4d22-8223-0196b7694168" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to St. Petersburg" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in St. Pete&#x27;s Grand Central District on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Your guide to fall events around Tampa Bay

Along with the subtle cool in the air comes a lineup of events to help you lean into the season.

Fall is finally here.<ul><li>And along with the subtle cool in the air comes a lineup of events to help you lean into the season.</li></ul>

How to celebrate Tampa Theatre's 100th birthday

A weeklong slate of events offer residents and fans a chance to see the results of a $30-million renovation.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tampa Theatre" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/14/tampa-theatre-30-million-restoration-second-century-campaign" data-vars-content-id="7711e253-ce13-482e-be2b-f5243b754583" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Tampa Theatre&#x27;s 100th birthday" 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/tampa-theatre-30-million-restoration-second-century-campaign" target="_self">Tampa Theatre</a> is set to reopen next month, just in time for its 100th birthday.Why it matters: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="weeklong slate of events" data-vars-click-url="https://tampatheatre.org/movie-categories/centennialcelebrations/" data-vars-content-id="7711e253-ce13-482e-be2b-f5243b754583" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Tampa Theatre&#x27;s 100th birthday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tampatheatre.org/movie-categories/centennialcelebrations/" target="_blank">weeklong slate of events</a> offer residents and fans a chance to see the results of a $30-million renovation, including the restoration of the Historic Duncan Auditorium <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="and its famous starry night sky" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/05/14/tampa-theatre-30-million-restoration-second-century-campaign" data-vars-content-id="7711e253-ce13-482e-be2b-f5243b754583" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Tampa Theatre&#x27;s 100th birthday" 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/tampa-theatre-30-million-restoration-second-century-campaign" target="_self">and its famous starry night sky</a>.

How to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Tampa Bay

Hispanic Heritage Month is underway through Oct. 15, and there are tons of ways to celebrate in Tampa Bay.📆 Go to an event: Here&#x27;s some of the lineup from across the bay.

St. Pete's Historic Manhattan Casino to reopen after renovations

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off its new life as a city-owned and operated event venue.

A century-old <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Petersburg" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/09/15/st-pete-free-museum-day-weekend-events" data-vars-content-id="8e5f2b93-4aaa-4eec-bf83-b4886ba27073" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s Historic Manhattan Casino to reopen after renovations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/09/15/st-pete-free-museum-day-weekend-events" target="_self">St. Petersburg</a> landmark is set to reopen this weekend.Why it matters: After four years of renovations, a public ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow will kick off a new life for the Historic Manhattan Casino as a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="city-owned and operated event venue" data-vars-click-url="https://historicmanhattancasino.com/" data-vars-content-id="8e5f2b93-4aaa-4eec-bf83-b4886ba27073" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s Historic Manhattan Casino to reopen after renovations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://historicmanhattancasino.com/" target="_blank">city-owned and operated event venue</a>.

St. Pete's Free Museum Day is back, plus more weekend events

It's never too soon to start planning the weekend.

Free Museum Day is back this Saturday in St. Pete, and we&#x27;ve got a few more fun ways to spend your weekend.🖼️ <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free Museum Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/event/free-museum-day-2026/60031" data-vars-content-id="fc895d9c-6afb-421b-b0ac-d1fcd421d57a" data-vars-headline="St. Pete&#x27;s Free Museum Day is back, plus more weekend events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/event/free-museum-day-2026/60031" target="_blank">Free Museum Day</a>, St. Pete: Residents can visit cultural institutions including the Museum of Fine Arts, The Dalí Museum, The Woodson African American Museum of Florida, the Queer Asian Museum and more for free.

Hurricane center monitors two Atlantic systems

One of the systems could be of concern for Florida.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Hurricane Center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/05/20/national-hurricane-center-updates-cone-of-uncertainty" data-vars-content-id="81dcbc47-5d15-4962-88a2-23e805dc3233" data-vars-headline="Hurricane center monitors two Atlantic systems" 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">National Hurricane Center</a> is monitoring two systems in the Atlantic, either of which could develop into the season&#x27;s next named storm.Why it matters: One of the systems could be of concern for Florida, though no effects are expected in the state over the next week.

Tampa invests $2M in neighborhood flooded by Milton

The upgrades are intended to address some of the vulnerabilities Milton exposed.

Climate

Tampa is investing more than $2 million to overhaul a 64-year-old wastewater pump station in the Forest Hills neighborhood.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hurricane 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="8bce91fe-831d-4892-9ff4-28da3be4d4ea" data-vars-headline="Tampa invests $2M in neighborhood flooded by Milton" 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">Hurricane Milton</a> inundated the neighborhood in 2024, displacing some residents for months and leaving others still repairing their homes a year later.

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.

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.

Tampa Bay is having its Detroit-style pizza moment

Tampa Bay now has more places than ever to try the Motor City delicacy.

A decade ago, an ex introduced me to Detroit-style pizza, and life has never been the same.Flashback: Biting into that first slice from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jet&#x27;s Pizza" data-vars-click-url="https://www.jetspizza.com/" data-vars-content-id="e080b797-a595-46d6-a322-d56a2e77b6d4" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay is having its Detroit-style pizza moment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.jetspizza.com/" target="_blank">Jet&#x27;s Pizza</a> was heavenly. The thick, fluffy center leading out to the crunchy, crispy, caramelized-cheesy edge.<ul><li>And the corners … the corners.</li></ul>

12 new restaurants open or coming soon to Tampa Bay

From fine dining to cheesesteaks and soul food, the restaurant scene is getting a refresh.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tampa Bay&#x27;s dining scene" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/30/tampa-st-pete-restaurant-closures-summer-2026" data-vars-content-id="030ce0b4-feb5-4f13-b740-25a270614d27" data-vars-headline="12 new restaurants open or coming soon to Tampa Bay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2026/06/30/tampa-st-pete-restaurant-closures-summer-2026" target="_self">Tampa Bay&#x27;s dining scene</a> is always evolving. Why it matters: As we head into fall, new concepts are entering the market, old favorites are reinventing themselves, and sleepy downtowns are seeing some food-and-bev action.

Tampa Bay gets in on Yemeni cafe trend

Yemeni-American cafe chains have percolated across the country.

Move over, pumpkin spice latte. The hottest new coffee trend comes from Yemen.The buzz: In recent years, Yemeni-American cafe chains — like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qamaria" data-vars-click-url="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="7c7e66b3-813f-4e01-ae78-20426e343f6c" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay gets in on Yemeni cafe trend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Qamaria</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arwa" data-vars-click-url="https://arwacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="7c7e66b3-813f-4e01-ae78-20426e343f6c" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay gets in on Yemeni cafe trend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arwacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Arwa</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Haraz Coffee House" data-vars-click-url="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" data-vars-content-id="7c7e66b3-813f-4e01-ae78-20426e343f6c" data-vars-headline="Tampa Bay gets in on Yemeni cafe trend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" target="_blank">Haraz Coffee House</a>, which have all opened locations in Tampa Bay over the last year and a half — have percolated across the country.<ul><li>Last year, the number of shops increased by 50%, making them the fastest-growing coffee sector in the nation, according to Technomic, which listed three Yemeni chains in a recent &quot;Future 50 Growth List.&quot;</li></ul>

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>.

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>

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.

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