Good evening, Tampa Bay. We’re wrapping up the day for you with the most important stories you need to know and your weather outlook.
Your Weather Planner
After lows in the 40s to 50, temperatures will make it back into the 70s for the next few days.
It will feel more comfortable, but a bit breezy.
It’ll be another cool night on Thursday night into Friday.
Highs near 80 this weekend.
Highs: 74
Lows: 55
Rain Coverage: 0%
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Today’s Big Stories
1. ‘Shelter-in-place’ lifted at MacDill Air Force Base
A “shelter in place” order has been lifted at MacDill Air Force Base after a threat was made against the base, officials said today.
2. Remains of Winter Haven soldier Cody Khork returning to Polk County
Khork, who is from Winter Haven, was promoted from captain to major posthumously.
3. Valspar welcomes strong field during milestone year
The Valspar Championship is celebrating dual milestones this year: The 50th anniversary of professional golf in the Tampa Bay region and the 25th anniversary of becoming a full-field PGA event.
4. U.S. producer prices rose by surprisingly hot 3.4% last month, the most in a year
U.S. wholesale prices came in hotter than expected in February, driven partly by a sharp increase in food costs.
5. Fed projects one rate cut this year, as Powell vows to stay on until DOJ investigation is finished
Federal Reserve officials expect the Iran war will worsen inflation this year while having little impact on economic growth, but they still expect to cut their key rate once in 2026.
6. The Florida Aquarium improves recycling accuracy with AI tool
The Florida Aquarium is using artificial intelligence to teach good recycling habits. Oscar Sort is an AI-generated trash and recycling bin that’s aimed to show people what’s recyclable and what’s not. By checking Oscar’s screen, people can put their trash and recycling in the correct bins.
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Your Notes for Tonight and Tomorrow
TAMPA ROAD CLOSURE | North Florida Avenue is now closed between Scott Street and East Estelle Street while the Tampa Water Department repairs a water main break. Barricades and signs are located in the area to assist with traffic flow. The completion of the work with a return to normal traffic patterns is expected by Monday, March 26 at 4 p.m. The Tampa Water Department may need to return at a later date to complete additional work.
LIGHTNING VS. CANUCKS | The Tampa Bay Lightning visit the Vancover Canucks after their 6-2 victory against Seattle. Thursday’s game is the second time these teams match up this season. The Canucks won the previous meeting 6-2. The puck drops Thursday at 10 p.m.
FUNDING GRANT APPLICATIONS | Pinellas County Human Services is accepting Social Action Funding Grant Program applications through Thursday, March 26 at 1 p.m. The program provides funding to social service organizations for priority services that directly serve Pinellas County citizens. The goals of the program are to address the health, economic and social wellbeing of county residents in need of assistance. Organizations may apply for up to $150,000 in funding, with the minimum grant being $10,000, and must align with defined social action priorities. Those interested in applying can do so here.
National Notes
Thursday, March 19
President Trump hosts Japanese PM at the White House
Epstein associate scheduled to sit for deposition following Congressional subpoena
European Council meeting of EU heads of state and government.
Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims Report – Initial Claims
Jamie Lee Curtis and Arnold Schwarzenegger inducted into the California Hall of Fame
MegaCon Orlando
Bella Italia’s motto: “Nothing brings people together like good food.” (Spectrum News/Allison Walker)
The biggest flavors often come from mom ‘n’ pop restaurants tucked within strip malls. Bella Italia Pizza (662 E Michigan St, Orlando) is one of those family-owned restaurants known for its word-of-mouth reputation.