Author: TBO Digital Staff

Tampa Electric (TECO) is proposing another rate increase for its customers, just days after receiving approval for a $9 monthly increase set to begin in January 2025. The new request seeks to recover $464 million in power restoration costs following Hurricanes Helene and Milton.teco If approved by the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), the average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month would see an additional $30.81 on their monthly bills. The proposed “storm restoration surcharge” would start in March and last for 12 months. TECO stated that recent storms have “more than exhausted” its storm reserve fund, which was…

Tampa Bay residents are reporting a wave of severe stomach illness as norovirus cases climb across the United States. Local social media channels are filled with reports of entire families battling the highly contagious virus, which causes intense bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. The surge aligns with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data showing a significant increase in norovirus outbreaks nationwide. The CDC reported 91 outbreaks in early December, marking a substantial rise from 69 outbreaks in late November and 32 in mid-November. Tampa residents have described severe cases affecting entire households. “My whole family just had it,”…

Plans for a new waterpark resort in St. Pete Beach hit a roadblock as the city’s Planning Board recommended rejection of the proposed development by the City Commission. The Windward Pass Resort project, which aimed to bring a 104-room hotel to the area, faced opposition due to multiple concerns from board members. The proposed six-story development, planned for a 2.76-acre plot along Gulf Boulevard with intracoastal waterway frontage, drew scrutiny over its density and potential noise impact. Board members also expressed worry that the project would fail to provide an appropriate transition between residential and commercial zones. The resort’s ambitious…

Fast food fans in Tampa were left shocked after a Burger King on W Martin Luther King Boulevard was temporarily shut down following a state health inspection that uncovered serious violations, including rodent chew marks on a burger bun. The location at 2506 W Martin Luther King Boulevard has a mixed reputation, holding a 3.8-star rating on Google reviews. While some customers praised the service, others flagged concerns about cleanliness. One reviewer claimed they became ill after eating food from the restaurant, writing, “We both have had a serious stomach virus… for days.” Another noted issues with hygiene, saying, “The…

The fried chicken craze sweeping Tampa Bay is heading north, with Dave’s Hot Chicken set to open its fourth regional location in Pasco County in April. Local franchise owner Ian Liberman confirmed the upcoming location at 13446 Pine Gap Spur in Odessa, marking the second Dave’s in Pasco, joining the existing Wiregrass Mall spot. Tampa is already home to two locations, making the new opening another step in the chain’s rapid expansion across the Bay area. Liberman and his brother Adam, who also own several Fuzzy’s Taco Shops, previously announced plans to launch eight Dave’s Hot Chicken franchises in Tampa…

Barstool Sports founder and self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur Dave Portnoy is back in Tampa Bay for another round of his popular “One Bite Pizza Reviews.” After making the rounds last spring, Portnoy has returned, this time blending pizza tasting with a side mission involving former Bucs coach Jon Gruden’s Quarterback Camp. In a Dec. 12 Instagram post, Portnoy revealed he was in town to “find a bunch of guys” for Gruden’s camp but managed to squeeze in a review at Ybor City’s Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar, located at 1724 E 7th Ave. View this post on Instagram A post…

Looking to spice up your date night with your partner? Tampa, Florida, offers a wide variety of romantic activities and destinations that are perfect for couples. From cozy restaurants with mouthwatering cuisine to outdoor adventures and breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 must-visit spots for couples seeking an unforgettable date night experience in Tampa. 1. Romantic Dining at Oxford Exchange Start your date night on a high note with a visit to Oxford Exchange, a chic and stylish restaurant located in the heart of downtown Tampa. This…

If you’re looking for stunning views and delicious food, Casa Cami might become your new favorite spot. Located on the 10th floor of The Current Hotel at Rocky Point, the restaurant boasts incredible views across the bay. The restaurant is the latest project from siblings Blake Casper and Allison Casper Adams, the duo behind Tampa’s popular Oxford Exchange, Predalina and The Library. Our evening began with the Salsa Trio and two standout appetizers: the Chorizo Pizza and Flautas. The Chorizo Pizza, in particular, is a must-try fusion dish that brilliantly marries Mexican and Italian influences. It’s the kind of unexpected…

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is embracing the holiday season with its dazzling Christmas Town™ celebration, running November 15 through January 5. The beloved annual tradition bathes the park in millions of sparkling lights, combining seasonal entertainment, festive dining, and thrilling attractions – all included with regular park admission. This season features a specially illuminated Skyride experience, offering guests spectacular evening views of the park’s holiday transformation. Visitors can also enjoy the Phoenix Rising coaster and other favorite attractions as they operate under the enchanting blanket of holiday lights. The immersive celebration includes cherished traditions like Santa’s North Pole experience and…

Tampa’s favorite holiday tradition returns this winter as Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park transforms into a winter wonderland on December 7. The 2024 Santa Fest promises to fill downtown with seasonal cheer, culminating in the city’s beloved annual tree lighting ceremony alongside the enchanting Winter Village. The festivities kick off at 1 pm with a downtown procession that captures the spirit of the season. Starting at the intersection of Morgan and Madison Streets, the parade route weaves through the heart of downtown, traveling west along Madison before turning north onto Ashley Drive and concluding near Cass Street. Families looking for the…