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Get smarter, faster about what’s happening in your backyard with local reporter Selene San Felice.

Axios Tampa Bay

A guide to fun things to do in Tampa Bay this weekend.

Axios Tampa Bay Weekender

Weekender

Axios Tampa Bay Thought Bubble

Thought Bubble

Axios Tampa Bay Deep Dive

Deep Dive

Tampa Members

Membership

Children among 9 injured in shooting near Hollywood beach in Florida

Politics & Policy

Texas Senate sets date for AG Ken Paxton's impeachment trial

Biden warns Uganda may face sanctions if anti-gay law not repealed

World

Graham responds to Russian warrant for his arrest: "See you in The Hague!"

"The Little Mermaid" makes a splash at Memorial Day weekend box office

Economy & Business

3 new books to read from Tampa Bay authors

From photo-drive narratives to short stories, check out these newly released books from local authors.

Things to Do

What to know about Tampa Bay's termite swarming season

Telltale signs of infestation and how to prevent damage.

News

Tampa Bay's soccer scene grows with women's USL Super League

The ownership group plans to eventually build a soccer stadium for the team.

Sports

5 big things Florida's Legislature did this year

The Republican-controlled Legislature leveraged its power to provide Gov. Ron DeSantis with a slew of legislative victories.

Politics

Swifties' swift spending rocks Tampa Bay

They arrived at Florida's Raymond James Stadium, bejeweled and ready to spend big money on lodging, food and travel.

Business

Early figures suggest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taylor Swift&#x27;s sold-out Eras Tour at Raymond James Stadium" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/04/13/taylor-swift-merch-tampa" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/04/13/taylor-swift-merch-tampa" target="_self">Taylor Swift&#x27;s sold-out Eras Tour at Raymond James Stadium</a> had a major financial impact on Tampa Bay, with area hotels more than doubling their typical daily profits.By the numbers: How Hillsborough County hotel revenues during Swift&#x27;s shows compared to the same time last year, according to Smith Travel Reports figures shared by Visit Tampa Bay&#x27;s Molly Barbieri:

Taylor Swift raises her arms onstage in Tampa, Florida

Tampa startup Cope Notes is the text big thing in mental health

Cope Notes sends daily guidance via texts to help people take small, positive steps toward improving their mental health.

Starting to take care of your mental health can be intimidating. But a Tampa CEO says it&#x27;s as easy as opening a text message.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Johnny Crowder" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2021/09/28/screen-time-johnny-crowder" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2021/09/28/screen-time-johnny-crowder" target="_self">Johnny Crowder</a> is CEO of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cope Notes" data-vars-click-url="https://copenotes.com/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://copenotes.com/" target="_blank">Cope Notes</a>, a startup that sends daily guidance via texts to help people take small, positive steps toward improving their mental health.

Illustration of an app-like brain with an alarm icon on it

Suburban short-term rentals skyrocket in Tampa Bay

Real Estate

More Tampa Bay residents are using their homes for short-term rentals, but that doesn&#x27;t mean more people are renting them.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New data from AirDNA" data-vars-click-url="https://www.airdna.co/blog/hottest-us-short-term-rental-cities-2023?utm_campaign=hottest_markets_2023&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;_hsmi=258921307&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9kwfuYXsQa9Orl7dQ4hdtsrog495WsGQ9e7RsiqkLsL8geNxMsyxAMMykcH029QwY0sW5_oml3CFn6msqr6dLo242zXQ&amp;utm_content=258921307&amp;utm_source=hs_email" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.airdna.co/blog/hottest-us-short-term-rental-cities-2023?utm_campaign=hottest_markets_2023&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;_hsmi=258921307&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9kwfuYXsQa9Orl7dQ4hdtsrog495WsGQ9e7RsiqkLsL8geNxMsyxAMMykcH029QwY0sW5_oml3CFn6msqr6dLo242zXQ&amp;utm_content=258921307&amp;utm_source=hs_email" target="_blank">New data from AirDNA</a> shows big growth in the suburbs of St. Petersburg and Tampa, listing them as two of the hottest short-term rental cities in the country.

Illustration of a house key covered in price stickers. 

5 Black interior designers to support in Tampa Bay

Conversations about diversity in the interior design field picked up during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020. Now, it's time to take action, industry experts tell Axios.

Conversations about diversity in the interior design field picked up during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020. Now, it&#x27;s time to take action, industry experts tell Axios.

Orlando Magic founder's $1.7 billion pitch to steal the Rays

The plans come while the franchise struggles to get a new ballpark built.

Orlando Magic co-founder Pat Williams unveiled renderings of a new ballpark intended to lure the Tampa Bay Rays or another Major League Baseball expansion team to Central Florida.What&#x27;s happening: Williams and the Orlando City Baseball Dreamers — the group that has been working to bring a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="baseball team to the Orlando area" data-vars-click-url="https://orlandodreamers.com/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://orlandodreamers.com/" target="_blank">baseball team to the Orlando area</a> for years — plan to build a 45,000-seat baseball stadium near International Drive.

Rendering of stadium from Orlando City Baseball Dreamers

Meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 2023 NFL Draft class

University of Pittsburgh's Calijah Kancey is the Bucs' new defensive lineman.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers&#x27; newest draft class includes the fastest defensive tackle in 20 years and the speediest wide receiver at this year&#x27;s NFL Scouting Combine.The breakdown: University of Pittsburgh&#x27;s Calijah Kancey, the Bucs&#x27; new defensive lineman, was the 19th player selected overall during the first round of the NFL draft on Thursday night. The All-American defensive tackle was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="snubbed by Florida, FSU and Miami" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2023/04/29/calijah-kancey-bucs-draft-miami-northwestern-pitt/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2023/04/29/calijah-kancey-bucs-draft-miami-northwestern-pitt/" target="_blank">snubbed by Florida, FSU and Miami</a> for college ball, but now returns to his home state to play in the NFL.

Florida Legislature moves to block fertilizer bans

Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota and Manatee counties all have seasonal bans in place.

Climate

Conservation groups and some state lawmakers are warning that the Florida Legislature&#x27;s recent move to block seasonal fertilizer bans could hamper local efforts to improve water quality. Why it matters: The state&#x27;s waterbodies are already grappling with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red tide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/03/13/red-tide-anna-maria-island-manatee-county" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/03/13/red-tide-anna-maria-island-manatee-county" target="_self">red tide</a>, a toxic algae bloom known to devastate marine life and repel tourists.

People walk on an empty beach in Naples, Florida.

St. Petersburg and Clearwater residents get green upgrades

St. Pete's revived composting program now requires an in-person workshop.

Eco-friendly waste programs are being overhauled across Pinellas County to help residents go green successfully.Driving the news: St. Petersburg recently announced <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the return of its backyard composting program" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stpete.org/residents/utilities/residential_trash___recycling/composting_waste_reduction.php" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stpete.org/residents/utilities/residential_trash___recycling/composting_waste_reduction.php" target="_blank">the return of its backyard composting program</a>, which now requires an in-person workshop.

Animated illustration of a hand drawn recycling symbol changing to a flat recycling symbol, and then to a 3d recycling symbol.

Tampa Bay's brightest high school graduates take on the world

They're part of the last class to start high school before the coronavirus pandemic.

Education

How do you one-up your valedictorian older brother? Jacob Delikat did it by becoming valedictorian and setting a school record with a 10.12 GPA.<ul><li>Meanwhile, Tyler Hale competed with only himself — graduating high school at 15 years old.</li></ul>

Last Meal with Red Mesa Mercado chef Victor Vega

Rice, stewed pinto beans, some tostones and a fried pork chop.

Food and Drink

Red Mesa Mercado executive chef Victor Vega has been dishing out some of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Pete&#x27;s best Mexican food" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/24/red-mesa-mercado-breakfast-menu" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/24/red-mesa-mercado-breakfast-menu" target="_self">St. Pete&#x27;s best Mexican food</a> since 2009.We wanted to know: What would he eat if he only had one meal left?

Photo illustration of a place setting shaped like a skull and crossbones containing a photo of Chef Victor “Vic” Vega.

What you need to know about solar panels in Tampa Bay

Solar panel adoption is increasingly growing in the U.S, as companies and homeowners embrace the cost savings and environmental benefits.

Solar panel adoption is<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" increasingly growing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=55719" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=55719" target="_blank"> increasingly growing</a> in the U.S., as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="companies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/pro/climate-deals/2023/04/10/solar-module-prices-us-higher-rest-world-cea" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/pro/climate-deals/2023/04/10/solar-module-prices-us-higher-rest-world-cea" target="_self">companies</a> and homeowners embrace the cost savings and environmental benefits.Why it matters: Solar panels reduce greenhouse gas emissions and can improve air quality. They also lower your energy bill by an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="average of $1,500 a year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/how-much-solar-panels-save/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/how-much-solar-panels-save/" target="_blank">average of $1,500 a year</a>.

Illustration of a worker installing a solar panel in the shape of a question mark on a roof. 

Tampa Bay drivers are paying less for gas

Gas is more than a dollar per gallon cheaper here than it was last year.

Whether you&#x27;re just headed to the beach or going on a weekend getaway, expect a lot of traffic this Memorial Day weekend.Why it matters: Travel for the long weekend is expected to hit new highs. AAA estimates that 42.3 million Americans will travel during the holiday weekend — a 7% increase over last year, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="writes Axios&#x27; Sareen Habeshian" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/31565533.8/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tLzIwMjMvMDUvMTUvbWVtb3JpYWwtZGF5LXRyYXZlbC0yMDIzP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/62914293c41061e786093cc8B4544173d" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/31565533.8/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tLzIwMjMvMDUvMTUvbWVtb3JpYWwtZGF5LXRyYXZlbC0yMDIzP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/62914293c41061e786093cc8B4544173d" target="_blank">writes Axios&#x27; Sareen Habeshian</a>.

Florida's new immigration law prompts some to leave the state

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation this month to tighten restrictions on Florida's undocumented community.

An undocumented 22-year-old woman sat on her bed in Tampa last week and called her mother, listening to the ringing tone, hoping for another option. When her mother answered, the sound of her soft voice reminded the woman there weren&#x27;t any.<ul><li>&quot;We have to leave Florida,&quot; the woman said.</li></ul>What&#x27;s happening: A new law that Gov. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ron DeSantis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/24/ron-desantis-florida-governor-us-president-2024" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/24/ron-desantis-florida-governor-us-president-2024" target="_self">Ron DeSantis</a> signed this month to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tighten restrictions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/04/28/florida-immigration-bill-senate" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/04/28/florida-immigration-bill-senate" target="_self">tighten restrictions</a> on Florida&#x27;s undocumented community is driving immigrants out of the state.

a collage of ron desantis, old maps of south florida and dark silhouettes of people carrying bags  

Summer forecast to be hotter in Florida this year

Florida is also expected to be wetter than normal, which could spell good news for drought conditions in the northern part of the state.

Floridians are in for higher-than-usual temperatures this summer. Why it matters: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="climate outlook" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/19/hot-summer-ahead-us-climate-outlook" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/19/hot-summer-ahead-us-climate-outlook" target="_self">climate outlook</a> for June through August indicates Florida will be a hotter and more precarious place to be during the summer.

Map showing seasonal temperature trends likely during summer 2023 across the U.S.

Liam and Olivia top Florida's popular baby name list for second year

Meanwhile, names like Everly and Atlas are gaining popularity.

Florida&#x27;s class of 2040 will be full of Liams and Olivias.Driving the news: Those were the two most popular baby names recorded in the state for the second year in a row, per 2022 data recently released by the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Social Security Administration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/" target="_blank">Social Security Administration</a>.

Illustration of a baby wearing a "hello my name is" sticker. 

Scoop: Tampa Pride's troubles go beyond DeSantis

After the organization recently canceled a big festival, former board members say the only thing stopping Tampa Pride from putting on events is its own leadership.

Tampa Pride&#x27;s president warned that the parade in March could <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="be its last for awhile" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/03/27/tampa-pride-parade-florida-lgbtq-bills" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/03/27/tampa-pride-parade-florida-lgbtq-bills" target="_self">be its last for awhile</a> in light of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a slate of anti-LGBTQ+ laws" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/17/desantis-signs-anti-lgbtq-laws" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/17/desantis-signs-anti-lgbtq-laws" target="_self">a slate of anti-LGBTQ+ laws</a> recently signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.<ul><li>But after the organization recently canceled its next big festival, former board members say the only thing stopping Tampa Pride from putting on events is its own leadership.</li></ul>

a large rainbow flag being carried during the pride parade in ybor

Untold Tampa Bay: Sarasota performer in pursuit of preserving drag

"You're only alive when you're on stage," Lindsay Carlton-Cline says.

Adversity has been as much a part of 62-year-old Sarasota drag queen Lindsay Carlton-Cline&#x27;s career as lipstick and high heels.Yes, but: She didn&#x27;t stop doing drag when she was kicked out of her home at 18 after her parents discovered her drag costumes. She moved in with her drag mother, Pearly Mae Jones Douglas.

Sarasota drag performer Lindsay Calrton-Cline poses in a white feathered top in front of a bright green background.

What the end of the COVID public health emergency means for Florida

A number of health care changes that local providers and patients have grown used to during the pandemic will disappear.

COVID

Today marks the end of the federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="COVID public health emergency" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/01/31/covid-19-emergency-status-end-may-biden" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/01/31/covid-19-emergency-status-end-may-biden" target="_self">COVID public health emergency</a>.Why it matters: Although most emergency <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="orders across Florida have already expired" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2021/05/03/desantis-florida-covid-restrictions" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2021/05/03/desantis-florida-covid-restrictions" target="_self">orders across Florida have already expired</a>, a number of health care changes that both local providers and patients have grown used to during the pandemic will disappear, Axios Vitals&#x27; Tina Reed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-vitals-c84d5d8c-b862-4ba4-bc89-fe349b2b40da.html" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-vitals-c84d5d8c-b862-4ba4-bc89-fe349b2b40da.html" target="_self">reports</a>.

Illustration of a hand pulling a plug from an outlet shaped like COVID-19.

5 things to do in Tampa Bay during Memorial Day weekend

An electronic dance festival and other local celebrations.

Get ready for the long weekend with these big events across Tampa Bay:🧑‍🎤 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sunset Music Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://smftampa.com/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://smftampa.com/" target="_blank">Sunset Music Festival</a>: AC Slater, Champagne Drip and Odd Mob headline the electronic dance music festival.

two people with colorful hair flash peace signs wearing "tampa 22" jerseys

Tips to prevent or reduce termite damage in homes

Each termite species requires a distinct method of control.

Tampa Bay&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="termite swarming season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/19/drywood-termites-tampa-bay-florida" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/19/drywood-termites-tampa-bay-florida" target="_self">termite swarming season</a> is in full swing. Be smart: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Thomas Chouvenc" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/31518291.5/aHR0cHM6Ly9mbHJlYy5pZmFzLnVmbC5lZHUvZmFjdWx0eS9kci10aG9tYXMtY2hvdXZlbmMvP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/643ec261f08be519c9f76acdBa73726f6" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/31518291.5/aHR0cHM6Ly9mbHJlYy5pZmFzLnVmbC5lZHUvZmFjdWx0eS9kci10aG9tYXMtY2hvdXZlbmMvP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/643ec261f08be519c9f76acdBa73726f6" target="_blank">Thomas Chouvenc</a>, assistant professor of urban entomology at the University of Florida, shared tips to prevent or minimize the impact of a termite infestation.

Help brand Tampa Bay's first professional women's soccer team

Community members can submit ideas for the club's name, colors and crest through June 16.

You can help decide what <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tampa Bay&#x27;s first professional women&#x27;s soccer team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/17/tampa-bay-womens-soccer-pro-usl" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/17/tampa-bay-womens-soccer-pro-usl" target="_self">Tampa Bay&#x27;s first professional women&#x27;s soccer team</a> brand will look like.What&#x27;s happening: Community members can <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="submit ideas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.superleaguetampabay.com/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.superleaguetampabay.com/" target="_blank">submit ideas</a> for the club&#x27;s name, colors, and crest through June 16.

The books representing Florida at this year's National Book Festival

This year's picks offer readers a window into Florida's history, vibrant culture and landscapes.

Florida&#x27;s dual nature is contrasted in the two books representing the state at this year&#x27;s National Book Festival.Driving the news: The Florida chapter of the Library of Congress Center for the Book chose Gary Mormino&#x27;s &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dreams in the New Century" data-vars-click-url="https://upf.com/book.asp?id=9780813069340" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://upf.com/book.asp?id=9780813069340" target="_blank">Dreams in the New Century</a>&quot; and Christina Diaz Gonzalez&#x27;s &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Bluest Sky" data-vars-click-url="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/667595/the-bluest-sky-by-christina-diaz-gonzalez/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/667595/the-bluest-sky-by-christina-diaz-gonzalez/" target="_blank">The Bluest Sky</a>&quot; for the annual festival in Washington, D.C.

Illustration of a sun with rays made from an open book

What to do in Tampa Bay this weekend: Pride, pets and cosplay

Pride at the Village will include performances from world-famous drag queen Ginger Minj.

From Pride to pop culture to puppies, there&#x27;s plenty to do across Tampa Bay this weekend.🏳️‍🌈 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride at the Village" data-vars-click-url="https://fb.me/e/1hOYnhb5j" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fb.me/e/1hOYnhb5j" target="_blank">Pride at the Village</a>: The LGBTQ Pride celebration will include performances from world-famous drag queen Ginger Minj. Plus, the Miss Pride pageant, a new art exhibit, and a chance to meet and shop from local artists.

Free museum days to take advantage of in Tampa Bay

Tampa Museum of Art admission is pay-as-you-will for Art on the House every Thursday.

Today is International Museum Day! And while local museums aren&#x27;t celebrating, there are plenty of reasons to visit one in the coming weeks.Driving the news: Tampa Museum of Art admission is pay-as-you-will for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Art on the House" data-vars-click-url="https://tampamuseum.org/event/art-on-the-house/2023-05-18/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tampamuseum.org/event/art-on-the-house/2023-05-18/" target="_blank">Art on the House</a> every Thursday from 4-8pm.

an aerial view of the Tampa Museum of Art and the University of Tampa

Bite Club: Red Mesa Mercado's new breakfast dishes

There are 10 new items, from chile relleno breakfast tacos to birria chilaquiles.

I recently stopped by Red Mesa Mercado in downtown St. Pete to check out its revamped breakfast menu.Best bites: The Chile Relleno Breakfast Tacos, which were so good I wanted to tuck myself between the homemade flour tortillas and gooey fried cheese.

Taste a divine coffee-aged wine at Florida Orange Groves Winery

Midnight Sun, made with 100% fresh-squeezed Florida orange juice, is aged with aromatic roasted coffee beans.

<figure><img alt="a bottle of Midnight Sun wine" height="2670" id="ebedb4f1-a0fb-4e34-9472-6dbc934dbe17" src="https://images.axios.com/tlsHmwptHQKNHrHET5LW2WVjnvw=/2023/05/16/1684272913552.jpg" width="3985"/><figcaption>Photo: Selene San Felice/Axios</figcaption></figure>I wasn&#x27;t expecting much when I took my mom to Florida Orange Groves Winery in south St. Pete. I&#x27;m more of a deep red wine drinker and thought I put my fruity wine days behind me in a haze of hangovers. Yes, but: Among some surprisingly delicious and tart blends (try the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Black Gold Dry" data-vars-click-url="https://floridawine.com/collections/berry-stone-fruit/products/black-gold-dry" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://floridawine.com/collections/berry-stone-fruit/products/black-gold-dry" target="_blank">Black Gold Dry</a>), and some that were indeed sickly sweet (hard pass on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Florida Banana" data-vars-click-url="https://floridawine.com/collections/tropical-fruit-wines/products/florida-banana" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://floridawine.com/collections/tropical-fruit-wines/products/florida-banana" target="_blank">Florida Banana</a>), was the wine of my dreams.

Last Meal with Lilac chef John Fraser

We wanted to know what a guy with such exquisite taste would eat if he only had one meal left.

Chef John Fraser is taking Tampa&#x27;s food scene to a whole new level.State of play: Less than a year after opening Mediterranean fine dining restaurant Lilac at the Tampa Edition in Water Street, Fraser&#x27;s food artistry earned the restaurant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="one of Tampa&#x27;s first Michelin stars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/12/michelin-restaurants-florida-tampa-bay" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/12/michelin-restaurants-florida-tampa-bay" target="_self">one of Tampa&#x27;s first Michelin stars</a>.

Photo illustration of a place setting shaped like a skull and crossbones containing a photo of Chef John Fraser.

Michelin Guide dishes out Tampa's first-ever stars

South Tampa's Koya, Tampa Heights' Rocca and Water Street's Lilac earned the recognition.

Tampa&#x27;s food scene is beaming after the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin Guide" data-vars-click-url="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/article/michelin-star-revelation/michelin-stars-florida-guide-ceremony-miami-orlando-tampa" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/article/michelin-star-revelation/michelin-stars-florida-guide-ceremony-miami-orlando-tampa" target="_blank">Michelin Guide</a> bestowed three restaurants with its coveted stars on Thursday. Why it matters: The Michelin Guide <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="recognized a few" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2022/06/10/tampa-bay-michelin-honors-stars" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2022/06/10/tampa-bay-michelin-honors-stars" target="_self">recognized a few</a> Tampa restaurants when it launched its Florida edition last year. But this week&#x27;s ceremony was the first time any of the city&#x27;s restaurants received a one-star rating.

The layout of Lilac in Water street Tampa. 

Bonu brings a dreamy Italian experience to St. Pete

Pairs nicely with: Pre- or post-dinner drinks at Book + Bottle around the corner.

I&#x27;ve been wanting to try <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bonu" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bonutaverna.online/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bonutaverna.online/" target="_blank">Bonu</a> since it first popped up in downtown St. Pete last summer. State of play: Its all-white exterior with string lights, flowers and lots of outdoor seating is reminiscent of an Italian cafe, but I wondered if the food was just as delightful.

Untold Tampa Bay: The story behind Wing Boys Deli

Javier Rodriquez fled Cuba and settled in West Tampa, where he tasted his first chicken wing at 7 years old — a dish that would define his future.

In the bustling food court of Citrus Park Town Center mall, the scent of chicken wings wafts from Wing Boys Deli, a new food stall that held its grand opening two weeks ago.<ul><li>To customers, the sizzle of meat hitting the hot grate is the sound of lunch. To Javier Rodriquez, the man behind the grill, it&#x27;s the sound of a dream realized.</li></ul>

Javier Rodriquez and his wife, Angelica Torres, cut the ribbon on their new location.

DeSantis' hometown, Dunedin, divided on his presidential aspirations

Some residents said the governor ought to forgo his pursuit of the GOP nomination and instead angle to be Trump's vice president.

Florida&#x27;s worst-kept secret is out: Gov. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ron DeSantis is officially running" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/24/ron-desantis-florida-governor-us-president-2024" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/24/ron-desantis-florida-governor-us-president-2024" target="_self">Ron DeSantis is officially running</a> for the Republican nomination in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2024 presidential election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/us-presidential-house-senate-elections" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/us-presidential-house-senate-elections" target="_self">2024 presidential election</a>. Why it matters: DeSantis, seen as former President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s most serious challenger" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/03/03/trump-plan-attack-desantis" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/03/03/trump-plan-attack-desantis" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s most serious challenger</a>, rose to national prominence for snubbing public health recommendations to curb the spread of COVID-19 and pursuing an aggressive conservative agenda on hot-button cultural issues.

"Vangina" full of bras and tampons headed to Florida

A nonprofit aims to help people experiencing homelessness and incarceration, as well as victims of domestic violence, immigrants and natural disaster survivors.

A big, pink &quot;Vangina&quot; is headed to Florida.Why it matters: Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit I Support the Girls (ISTG) uses the van to distribute bras and menstrual hygiene products to people experiencing homelessness and incarceration, as well as victims of domestic violence, immigrants and natural disaster survivors.

A person wearing a face mask gives a thumbs' up in the driver's seat of a bright pink van with cartoon tampon on the side with a speech bubble reading "Yep, this van is full of tampons"

Florida coalition pushes for abortion to be on 2024 ballot

The initiative comes a month after DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban into law.

Floridians Protecting Freedom, a new coalition of abortion rights supporters, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="launched a campaign" data-vars-click-url="https://floridiansprotectingfreedom.com/2023/05/08/campaign-launch/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://floridiansprotectingfreedom.com/2023/05/08/campaign-launch/" target="_blank">launched a campaign</a> Monday to place a constitutional amendment protecting abortion access on next year&#x27;s ballot.Why it matters: The initiative to allow abortion until viability, around 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy, comes a month after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="six-week abortion ban" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/13/florida-6-week-abortion-ban" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/13/florida-6-week-abortion-ban" target="_self">six-week abortion ban</a> into law.

DeSantis signs bill restricting certain foreigners from property buys

Critics warn the law will discriminate against Chinese home seekers in Florida and impact a much wider immigrant population.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="legislation" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/31372273.10/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2JyaWRnZT91cmw9aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZmxzZW5hdGUuZ292L1Nlc3Npb24vQmlsbC8yMDIzLzI2NCZzPTEyNDY2NiZuPWU0NWM4MmE5JnQ9OTNiMzIxNTQ2NzZjODU4NjBiMTdhYzNhN2MwNzkzYWFhZDFmMWNlZiZ1dG1fc291cmNlPW5ld3NsZXR0ZXImdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ249c2VuZHRvX2xvY2FsbmV3c2xldHRlcnRlc3Qmc3RyZWFtPXRvcA/643ec261f08be519c9f76acdC26f51091" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/31372273.10/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2JyaWRnZT91cmw9aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZmxzZW5hdGUuZ292L1Nlc3Npb24vQmlsbC8yMDIzLzI2NCZzPTEyNDY2NiZuPWU0NWM4MmE5JnQ9OTNiMzIxNTQ2NzZjODU4NjBiMTdhYzNhN2MwNzkzYWFhZDFmMWNlZiZ1dG1fc291cmNlPW5ld3NsZXR0ZXImdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ249c2VuZHRvX2xvY2FsbmV3c2xldHRlcnRlc3Qmc3RyZWFtPXRvcA/643ec261f08be519c9f76acdC26f51091" target="_blank">legislation</a> Monday that prevents certain foreign nationals from China and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="six other countries" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/04/florida-prohibit-foreign-buy-property-china-russia" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/04/florida-prohibit-foreign-buy-property-china-russia" target="_self">six other countries</a> from purchasing what the state deems sensitive American land.Why it matters: DeSantis, a potential 2024 presidential contender, proposed several of the law&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="provisions in September" data-vars-click-url="https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/22/governor-ron-desantis-counteracts-malign-influence-by-china-and-other-hostile-nations-in-florida-through-new-action/" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/22/governor-ron-desantis-counteracts-malign-influence-by-china-and-other-hostile-nations-in-florida-through-new-action/" target="_blank">provisions in September</a>. The legislation could bolster his standing among conservatives who support anti-China measures.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference on June 07, 2021 in Miami, Florida.

What to watch in the Florida Legislature next year

Lawmakers punted bills to legalize recreational marijuana and expand Medicaid.

The Florida Legislature wrapped up this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="legislative session" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/04/florida-legislative-session-2023" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2023/05/04/florida-legislative-session-2023" target="_self">legislative session</a> last week, leaving behind a spate of bills that we suspect will return when lawmakers descend on the Capitol again.What&#x27;s happening: Lawmakers punted bills to legalize recreational marijuana, expand Medicaid and refund millions of dollars collected from the now-defunct Hillsborough County transportation sales tax to next year.

Florida GOP lawmakers pave the way for DeSantis '24

The Legislature passed a measure that allows DeSantis to run for president without needing to vacate his statewide office.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hasn&#x27;t announced" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/24/desantis-trip-japan-2024" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/24/desantis-trip-japan-2024" target="_self">hasn&#x27;t announced</a> he&#x27;s running for president, nor has he launched an exploratory committee or filed any federal paperwork. Yes, but: That didn&#x27;t stop the state Legislature from giving him everything he might need to pursue the White House.

Photo illustration of Ron DeSantis holding a present.

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