Florida ex-Sen. Bill Nelson confirmed as next NASA administrator

Former Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson has been confirmed by the United States Senate to lead NASA, becoming the 14th administrator. He succeeds Jim Bridenstine, a Republican from Oklahoma.

‘Mastermind’ behind largest meth seizure in Polk history was operating from federal prison, sheriff says

A major drug bust led deputies to 120 gallons of liquid meth being transported in buckets by suspects from Georgia to Florida, overseen by a "mastermind" who ran the operation from federal prison, officials said Thursday.

CDC says U.S. cruises could resume in mid-July

It has been more than a year since cruises stopped sailing in U.S. waters due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Trump says Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis 'would be considered' as his 2024 running mate

Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he is "100%" thinking about running for president again in 2024 and would "certainly" consider Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as his running mate.

Florida Republicans send sports transgender bill to governor

Florida Republicans moved to ban transgender girls and women from playing on public school teams intended for student athletes born as girls, sending the proposal to Gov. Ron DeSantis and escalating a national culture war over transgender rights.

Shark-scarred rare white dolphin needs its space, Clearwater marine biologists warn

A young white dolphin has been spotted swimming close to mom in Clearwater, getting attention on social media as well as out on the water. Now, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is appealing to the public to just let the animal be.

All 22 Buccaneers starters returning after Antonio Brown agrees to 1-year deal

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are making the strongest push any team can make to repeat their Super Bowl championship. The last piece of the puzzle from that team just fell into place: Antonio Brown will be back again next season.

Judge nixes plea deal for accused Super Bowl streaker

A Tampa judge rejected a proposed plea deal Tuesday for two men accused of running onto the field during the final quarter of Super Bowl LV in February.

New venomous species of tarantula-like spider discovered in South Florida

A venomous, tarantula-like spider discovered in South Florida in 2012 has been identified as a new species of medium-sized trapdoor spiders, according to experts.

Disney adding finishing touches to Cinderella Castle for 50th anniversary

The Magic Kingdom's iconic centerpiece has been undergoing a transformation ahead of "The World’s Most Magical Celebration," which is planned to begin on October 1.

'She is wanted:' Caseworker becomes mother to 19-year-old who spent years in foster care

A Manatee County teen finally received what she's longed for -- a mother. And while she's 19 years old, she's proving you're never too old to find the love of a family.

Florida private school says it will not employ teachers who get the COVID-19 vaccine

A private school founded by an anti-vaccination activist in South Florida has warned teachers and staff against taking the COVID-19 vaccine, saying it will not employ anyone who has received the shot.

More patrols, fewer boaters for SpaceX splashdown off Florida Saturday

The astronauts flying SpaceX back to Earth this weekend urged boaters to stay safe by staying away from their capsule’s splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico.

Former Bucs, FSU linebacker Geno Hayes dies at 33

Former NFL linebacker Geno Hayes died Monday after a battle with liver disease. He was 33. 

Treasure Island installs sea turtle-friendly lights in time for hatchling season

This weekend marks the start of sea turtle nesting season along the beaches in the Sunshine State. Thanks to new lights being installed in Treasure Island, hatchlings should have an easier time finding their way around the beach in Pinellas County.

Video shows rare albino dolphin baby in Clearwater

Caitlin Mackey was at the Clearwater Basin Marina when she spotted three dolphins swimming next to the seawall -- including an extremely rare, all-white calf.