Tampa Bay Observer

"Operation Hall of Fame", a yearslong investigation into a local drug trafficking organization, led to the seizure of 60 kilograms of cocaine and the arrest of nine suspects on July 10, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Detectives learned cocaine was being transported by truck tractor from El Paso, Texas, to Pinellas County. After conducting surveillance, investigators arrested the suspects and seized the cocaine.

Operation Southern Slow Down is back as law enforcement agencies across Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee partner to crack down on speeding and aggressive driving. The annual traffic safety campaign runs through July 18, with troopers, deputies and police officers increasing enforcement on local roads and interstate highways. "Troopers, deputies and officers across all five states will be out focusing on traffic enforcement on both local roadways and interstate highways.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend around Tampa Bay? The Tampa Bay Observer has gathered local events happening across the area so you can make the most of your weekend. Friday July 17 Hotel Flor Travel back in time every Friday in July during Historic Happy Hour at The Dan inside Hotel Flor. From 5 to 10 p.m., guests can celebrate the hotel's 100th anniversary with vintage-inspired cocktails, live music and specialty appetizers.

The Westin Tampa Bay unveiled a new 64-foot waterfront pool with an 8-foot waterfall, poolside dining and scenic bay views, completing the final phase of the hotel's renovation. Photo courtesy the Westin Tampa Bay The Westin Tampa Bay has unveiled a new resort-style pool featuring an 8-foot waterfall wall, bayfront views and poolside dining. The 64-foot-long pool includes varying depths to accommodate guests of all ages and swimming abilities.

Three people were arrested after authorities said they pointed what appeared to be rifles at an HCSO helicopter. The weapons were later determined to be BB guns. Photo courtesy of HCSO. Three people, including two juveniles, were arrested after authorities said they pointed what appeared to be rifles at a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) helicopter early Friday morning in Lutz. At about 1:40 a.m. July 11, HCSO responded to a prowler call in the area of East 148th Avenue.

GOING FOR IT! proves that inspiration isn't just about one voice—it's about orchestrating a symphony of them In the crowded world of motivational literature, where self-help gurus and business titans typically dominate the bestseller lists with their singular philosophies, one project dared to ask a different question: What if the most powerful inspiration comes not from one voice, but from hundreds?

The Brisket Shoppe has earned a spot on the Micheline Guide as a recommended restaurant in West Tampa. Photo by Leah Burdick Nearly two years after opening in West Tampa, The Brisket Shoppe has earned a recommendation from the Michelin Guide, joining a select group of Tampa restaurants recognized by the internationally respected dining guide.

Despite the scorching heat, around 100 volunteers planted 3,500 trees across 11 acres at the future park site in New Tampa's K-Bar Ranch. In December, the City of Tampa's Green Team planted 6,800 tree saplings at the site over five days. City officials said the pine trees planted during that effort have already doubled in size. The planting initiative is part of Mayor Jane Castor's goal of planting 30,000 trees throughout the City of Tampa by 2030.

SPCA Tampa Bay is inviting the community to spread a little holiday cheer early by supporting shelter animals through its first-ever Christmas in July Donation Drive. Residents can donate new toys, treats and enrichment items to help support the mental and behavioral well-being of animals in the shelter's care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 145 cases of cyclosporiasis in the United States from May 1 through June 27, with cases confirmed in 17 states, including Florida. According to the CDC, 20 people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. The Florida Department of Health reported 35 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis statewide from May 1 through June 27, 2026.