The holiday hiring season has officially kicked off in the Tampa Bay area.

E-commerce giant Amazon announced it is bringing more than 1,500 new seasonal jobs to Tampa to prepare for the upcoming surge in online shopping.

This significant local hiring push is part of a much larger statewide effort, with 13,500 positions being created across Florida.

For those seeking work, the new roles will offer an average pay of around $19 per hour along with flexible hours.

Nationally, the company is adding a staggering 250,000 workers to its fulfillment and transportation teams.

Competition for these temporary positions is expected to be fierce, providing a critical opportunity for residents seeking seasonal employment.

New job openings will reportedly be posted on a weekly basis through the end of the year, so prospective applicants are encouraged to check frequently.

A popular Publix ice cream is being voluntarily recalled across Florida due to a serious undeclared allergen warning.

Some half-gallon containers of Publix Rich & Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream may actually hold French Vanilla ice cream, which contains egg.

This packaging error poses a significant health risk for anyone with an egg allergy.

The specific product is marked with a sell-by date of "June 19, 2026 A".

The recall affects most of Florida, though stores in Jacksonville, Tampa, and Sarasota are not included.

Lakeland-based Publix has pulled all potentially affected containers from its shelves as a precaution, and thankfully, no illnesses have been reported.

Customers who bought the ice cream are encouraged to return it to their local store for a full refund.

A profound sense of unease is rippling through Florida schools as the state makes a controversial move to make some childhood vaccines optional for school and daycare entry.

This marks a major policy reversal that has medical experts deeply concerned.

By December, the Florida Department of Health will eliminate requirements for vaccines protecting against diseases like chickenpox and hepatitis B.

Health officials are now bracing for potential infectious disease outbreaks, with scientists warning that highly contagious illnesses could spread rapidly.

In places like Sarasota County, where vaccination rates are already below herd immunity levels, the risk is particularly acute.

The policy shift also raises fears for Florida’s large senior population and medically fragile children.

While supporters frame the issue as one of parental rights, many teachers and parents feel it needlessly jeopardizes classroom and community safety.

Commuters in Riverview are facing significant new delays as a major traffic shift begins on US 301.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has redirected drivers near the bustling Symmes Road intersection to the east side of the road, narrowing traffic to two lanes in each direction.

This is the next phase of a major overhaul designed to handle the area's explosive growth.

Crews are replacing the existing asphalt with more durable concrete, improving drainage, and updating sidewalks and ramps to meet modern ADA standards.

The project also includes new traffic signals at key intersections like Shady Preserve Drive and Rhodine Road.

While the goal is a safer and more efficient roadway for Hillsborough County, patience is required.

Officials have confirmed that the extensive construction is not expected to be fully completed until early 2027.

A major controversy has erupted over access to books in Hillsborough County Public Schools.

A national report from the group PEN America recently claimed the district had removed hundreds of books from its library shelves.

However, district officials are strongly disputing these figures, stating that only 59 books have been permanently banned.

They explained that a much larger number of titles were only temporarily pulled over the summer for a state-mandated review to vet materials for inappropriate content.

The debate has drawn in advocacy groups, who worry about limited student access, and parent organizations like Moms for Liberty, who argue the district isn't moving fast enough.

This local conflict in the Tampa Bay area highlights a growing tension between state compliance and community control over education, with hundreds of books still awaiting a final decision.

Amazon’s futuristic Prime Air drone delivery is set to launch in the Tampa Bay area, with Riverview residents poised to become early adopters.

Operating from its Ruskin fulfillment center, Amazon will use autonomous drones to deliver packages directly to eligible homes within an eight-mile radius.

The service promises to drop off small packages — under five pounds, about the size of a shoebox — in just 30 minutes to an hour.

While not every household will qualify immediately due to aviation and safety regulations, neighborhoods around Riverview are well within reach.

Amazon is also hiring locally, seeking candidates with aviation and drone expertise to support the program and fuel regional job growth.

For families in Riverview, Prime Air represents the next wave of shopping convenience, promising faster deliveries and a taste of tomorrow’s technology in daily life.

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center is making a heartfelt plea for the community to consider adopting senior dogs and cats.

Often overlooked in favor of younger animals, these older pets face a quiet crisis in crowded Tampa Bay area shelters.

Many arrive after their owners pass away or have to move, leaving them confused and stressed in their golden years.

Adopting a senior pet offers unique advantages.

Most are already house-trained, understand commands, and have outgrown destructive puppy phases.

Their personalities are fully formed, so you know exactly the kind of companion you are bringing home.

This makes them an ideal fit for families or individuals seeking a calmer companion without the demands of a young animal.

Choosing to adopt an older pet not only gives them a deserving second chance but also frees up critical shelter space for another animal in need.

Tampa Bay drivers should prepare for a major traffic disruption this weekend at the infamous ‘Malfunction Junction’ downtown interchange.

Starting early Saturday morning, October 4, the Florida Department of Transportation will completely close all northbound lanes of I-275.

The closure will last until Monday, October 6.

During this time, southbound I-275 traffic will be crippled to a single lane, guaranteeing significant delays.

This critical shutdown is part of the ongoing Tampa Bay Next project.

Crews will be hoisting massive steel girders for a new flyover ramp connecting southbound I-275 to eastbound I-4.

The work will severely impact commuters, especially from areas like Riverview.

With several major events also scheduled downtown, drivers are strongly urged to plan for extra travel time and seek alternate routes like Hillsborough Avenue.

The University of South Florida has officially launched its groundbreaking Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing.

This landmark move establishes the first college of its kind in Florida, positioning Tampa at the forefront of the nation's tech and education evolution.

While the new college aims to fuel the local economy, it also presents a profound challenge.

How can students learn to think critically when powerful AI can provide instant answers?

USF faculty are tackling this issue directly by blending modern instruction with surprisingly traditional methods.

To ensure students are genuinely mastering course material, some professors are implementing handwritten assignments and quizzes.

The goal is to balance teaching cutting-edge tech skills with fostering the deep, independent thinking necessary to prepare a new generation for high-demand careers right here in Tampa Bay.

A 250-foot observation wheel, set to transform Tampa’s Channel District, is just 30 minutes from Riverview and promises to become a major destination for families throughout Hillsborough County.

Developer Tony Miller has unveiled plans for the $20 million “Tampa WOW” (Wheel Over Water), aiming to draw increased tourism and energy to downtown.

The observation wheel will feature climate-controlled gondolas for a relaxing 20- to 30-minute ride, offering unforgettable views of the skyline and bay.

Set within walking distance of The Florida Aquarium and Port Tampa Bay, Tampa WOW will also offer food, beverages, and luggage storage for cruise passengers.

Local tourism leaders are calling the wheel a “transformative” addition, highlighting its potential to boost connections between Water Street and Amalie Arena.

Privately funded, the attraction awaits City Council approval and could debut as soon as fall 2026.

Drivers in Hillsborough County should be aware of a major change to school zone enforcement.

Speed cameras will now be active for the entire school day, a significant expansion of the previous morning and afternoon windows.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) initiated this change to enhance student safety and provide clarity for drivers who found the old, varied system confusing.

The new rules apply to 29 schools across the county.

Any driver caught traveling more than 10 mph over the posted speed limit will receive a $100 fine.

Officials emphasize that the goal of the "Operation Safe Passage" program is safety, not revenue, with proceeds helping fund public safety initiatives like hiring more crossing guards.

New signage reflecting the updated hours is currently being installed.

Once those signs are in place, the expanded all-day ticketing will officially begin.

A state appeals court has struck down Florida's long-standing ban on openly carrying firearms, a decision now binding across the state.

Attorney General James Uthmeier directed law enforcement to immediately halt enforcement of the old prohibition, effectively ending the decades-old rule.

Here in Tampa Bay, local leaders are responding.

Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri confirmed his office will comply but warned that this is not a free-for-all.

Private businesses can still forbid firearms on their property, and gun-free zones like schools and government buildings remain fully in effect.

In Hernando County, Sheriff Al Nienhuis cautioned that openly carrying could make someone a primary target and urged the use of high-retention holsters.

While groups like Gun Owners of America celebrate the victory, both law enforcement and advocates stress that this newfound freedom comes with immense responsibility.

Daily gridlock on U.S. 301 has become a crisis for Riverview drivers, prompting officials to consider a major solution.

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority has formally proposed extending the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway south to the congested Big Bend Road corridor.

This plan aims to address a dangerous stretch of road that saw nearly 3,000 crashes and 25 fatalities between 2019 and 2023.

Advocates argue the extension could slash commute times and reduce delays at key intersections.

While a recent survey showed overwhelming public support for the toll road, some residents have raised concerns about noise and neighborhood impacts.

No decision has been made yet.

The proposal was presented to Hillsborough County Commissioners as an informational update, with crucial public meetings scheduled for October to gather community feedback before any votes are taken.

A culinary dream born in a Riverview gas station is officially expanding.

The family behind the beloved Box of Cubans has opened a new location in New Tampa, marking a major step in their ambitious journey.

Owner Marcos Silverio, who started the business with his wife Onelia in a BP station, sees this new venue as the key to a bigger vision.

Their goal is to transform the cherished local brand into a national franchise.

The New Tampa restaurant will serve as a flagship and a training ground for future franchise partners.

The family credits their success to grit, determination, and listening closely to customer feedback, which helped perfect their award-winning Cuban and steak sandwiches.

For the Silverio family, this expansion is more than just a new restaurant.

It’s the next chapter in an American dream fueled by passion and hard work.

Travelers at Tampa International Airport are set for a transformed experience as the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority greenlights a massive $584 million upgrade package.

This ambitious plan aims to dramatically modernize and speed up the entire check-in process for local flyers and visitors.

At the heart of the overhaul are two main projects: a completely redesigned ticketing level and a new, state-of-the-art automated baggage system.

These upgrades are slated for completion between 2028 and 2029.

This is just one piece of a larger puzzle at TPA.

Construction is also well underway on the new $1.5 billion Airside D.

As the first new airside in nearly two decades, it will add 16 gates to accommodate the region's booming travel demands when it opens in 2028.

These projects are critical to handling TPA's projected growth to 35 million passengers annually.

In Florida, the conversation around hurricanes is never about if, but when.

For all residents, true readiness begins with a solid Family Emergency Plan.

Know your evacuation zone, decide now where you will go if an order is given, and establish an out-of-state contact for check-ins.

Your plan must also include arrangements for pets.

Equally critical is a hurricane prep kit to sustain your family for several days without power.

Stock at least one gallon of water per person daily, non-perishable foods, a manual can opener, flashlights, and a battery-powered NOAA weather radio.

Modern essentials include power banks and solar chargers.

Remember often-overlooked items like cash and prescription medications.

Perhaps most importantly, secure vital documents like insurance policies and IDs in a waterproof bag or save them to a secure cloud service.

A long-awaited retail center is officially under construction in Riverview at the corner of Balm Road and U.S. Highway 301.

Developer The Ferber Co. has acquired the 15.5-acre property for $4.2 million, promising new shopping and dining options for southern Hillsborough County.

The project is designed to serve the area's booming residential population and provide a needed alternative to the congested Big Bend Road corridor.

Confirmed tenants already include popular brands like Dutch Bros coffee, Discount Tire, and Tidal Wave Car Wash, with several quick-service restaurants also planned.

After navigating years of permitting challenges, the development is now moving forward, with financing handled by Cogent Bank.

Local broker Ryan Sampson of Eshenbaugh Land Co. called the project a “homerun” for the community.

The first businesses are expected to open by mid-2026, marking a significant investment in Riverview's economy.

Did you know Riverview wasn’t always called Riverview?

Long before it became a bustling Hillsborough County hub, the community was a pioneer settlement known as Peru.

Established in the 1840s along the south bank of the Alafia River, its original name—pronounced Pe-Roo—was thought to be a native word for the “straight part of the river.”

The name officially changed to Riverview in the 1940s to resolve mail confusion.

Early industries like citrus and phosphate mining shaped the area, which was also home to Florida’s first commercial poultry farm in 1921.

That spirit of growth has since exploded.

Riverview’s population surged from just over 71,000 in 2010 to more than 107,000 by 2020, transforming the landscape with new businesses and subdivisions.

Today, the historic Alafia River remains a cherished centerpiece for recreation in this rapidly expanding community.

The flavors of Latin America have a vibrant new home in Riverview.

Liborio's Supermarket has officially opened its doors at 11357 Big Bend Road, bringing a much-anticipated marketplace to the community.

This is a major culinary expansion from the family behind the beloved Liborio's Latin Cafe, a local staple for over 20 years.

Inside, shoppers can find fresh-cut meats, seafood, and specialty products from Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Cuba.

The store also offers ready-to-eat favorites like savory lechon and roasted chicken, providing a genuine taste of home.

Generating significant local buzz since its soft launch in June, the market has earned praise for its welcoming atmosphere and impressive selection.

Liborio's is poised to become an essential destination for the growing SouthShore community, offering both everyday essentials and unique cultural flavors.

The Riverview Public Library is buzzing with activity this September, offering a full calendar of events for residents of all ages.

For the youngest learners, the library is hosting baby lapsit programs and engaging bilingual story times to build early literacy skills in a fun environment.

Creative workshops are also available, including unique opportunities to craft dragon eggs or learn about board game design.

Demand is extremely high, with many tech and STEAM programs already full, so be sure to register early for any events that catch your eye.

Don't miss the Friends of the Riverview Public Library book sale on Friday, September 12th, and Saturday, September 13th.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to find great deals on books while supporting valuable local library programming.

A new era for local bargain hunters is dawning as the massive Red White & Blue Thrift Store prepares to open in Riverview.

The 35,000-square-foot store, located at 7415 US-301, is bringing a significant economic boost with the creation of 70 new local jobs.

The grand opening is scheduled for Thursday, October 10, with a public ribbon-cutting at 8:45 a.m. before doors open at 9 a.m.

This new destination promises a unique shopping experience, adding more than 10,000 new items to its sales floor every single day.

General Manager Angie Antunez highlighted the store's dual mission: providing affordable, repurposed goods while promoting environmental sustainability through reuse.

The store will offer a vast selection of clothing, home furnishings, and more, reinforcing the trend toward eco-conscious retail in the Tampa Bay area.

Florida law enforcement is sounding the alarm over a viral social media trend called the "Door Kick Challenge."

Participants, often teens, are targeting local homes by forcefully kicking front doors and fleeing, sometimes while filming for platforms like TikTok.

In Riverview, five juveniles were caught on camera—one masked and armed with an airsoft gun—aggressively targeting a residence late at night.

Similarly, two teens in DeBary now face felony burglary charges after participating.

Hillsborough and Volusia County sheriffs warn the risky behavior could have tragic consequences, especially with Florida’s "stand your ground" laws.

Authorities in Bradenton and Tampa also report rising incidents, noting participants sometimes wear masks and wield realistic-looking weapons.

Parents are urged to monitor social media and talk to their children about the serious consequences—from property damage to real safety threats and felony charges.

Hurricane Erin has surged to a strong Category 4, swirling in the Atlantic and bringing significant impacts from Florida to New England.

As of August 20, 2025, the storm was located about 295 miles southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, delivering sustained winds up to 110 mph.

Although direct landfall isn’t predicted, Erin’s outer bands are already battering the East Coast with tropical-force winds and dangerous surf.

Beaches from Florida to the Outer Banks have closed due to hazardous rip currents and possible coastal flooding.

Evacuations are underway in parts of North Carolina, where towering 20-foot waves threaten infrastructure and could leave some communities isolated.

Meanwhile, adventurous surfers are drawn to massive swells, even as competitions halt for safety.

Authorities urge everyone to heed warnings, avoid the water, and stay alert.

Warmer oceans are fueling more intense storms like Erin, making vigilance crucial during this active hurricane season.