07.18.2025

From our friends at

94º | 20% chance of precipitation

Sunrise 6:45 a.m. | Sunset 8:26 p.m.

Tides | Old Tampa Bay | High: 9:04 a.m. + 11:19 p.m. | Low: 4:39 p.m.

Clearwater Beach | High: 7:22 p.m. | Low: 12:58 p.m. + 11:44 p.m.

Full Weather Report | Traffic Report

We have some questions

A drone shot of the overhead of the tattered Tropicana Field roof after Hurricane Milton.

The 100+ mph winds tore up the Trop’s roof. | Photo by City of St. Petersburg

You’ve surely heard that the Rays will likely be sold to a Jacksonville developer-led group. The $1.7 billion deal is expected to close as early as September.

Now let’s discuss the deluge of aftereffects the change of hands could have:

How does this impact the stadium situation?

The short answer is we don’t know. It undoubtedly will in many, many ways. Patrick Zalupski — the new Stu — reportedly wants to build a new stadium in Tampa and permanently move the team over the bridge.

But Hillsborough County might not have the dough, while Pinellas County could finance part of the new facility using bed tax dollars. However, one Hillsborough County Commissioner hypothesized the stadium could be paid for with “more ‘creative, long-term’ funding strategy that includes tourist tax dollars, user fees and entertainment district revenue,” reported WTSP.

What about the Rowdies?

Good question. Stu Sternberg and Co. also own our local MLS club. The Tampa Bay Business reports that the team will be sold to the new ownership group as part of the deal.

The Rowdies’ lease on Al Lang Stadium runs through November, but owners were trying to extend the contract. The team could reportedly follow the Rays over the bridge too.

What about St. Pete?

Asked

Do you think the Rays will permanently move over the bridge?

A. It’s happening
B. Potentially
C. No chance
D. I’m over this

Let us have it

Events

Friday, July 18

Margarita Wars 2025 | 6 p.m. | The James Museum | $75 | Sip on standout margaritas whipped up by more than 20 of Tampa Bay area’s best mixologists + help crown Tampa Bay’s Ultimate Margarita.

“The Mix & Mingle Tour 2025" | Friday, July 18-Saturday, July 19 | Times vary | Funny Bone Comedy Club, Tampa | $37 | Laugh off the week with sets from renowned comedians Sheryl Underwood, Kyle Erby, and Mike Washington.

Laura Bell Bundy | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg | $48.50+ | The OG Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde the Musical” dazzles with a cabaret-style performance, featuring solos + a special number from “Wicked,” where she starred as Glinda on Broadway.

Saturday, July 19

Mayor’s Neighborhood University | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | City of Tampa, Tampa | Free | This one’s for Tampans who’re curious to know how decisions impacting the city’s growth are made + how the permitting processes for residents and business owners works.

Latina Legacies: Brunch, Book, and Film Premiere with Dr. Sarah McNamara | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Centro Asturiano de Tampa, Tampa | Free | Enjoy free brunch and mimosas while watching a short film on the history of the 1937 Antifascist March + listening to stories of the Latinas who shaped Ybor City.

Toto with Christopher Cross | 6:45 p.m. | MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre | $43+ | Pack the lawn for a soft rock summer show from Toto, Men At Work, and Christopher Cross.

Sunday, July 20

Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. | St. Pete Pier | Price of purchase | Ring in five years of the St. Pete Pier with treats from local ice cream shops, food trucks, and dessert makers.

OE Children’s Book Fair | 12-5 p.m. | Oxford Exchange | Free entry | Mingle with your favorite local authors, take part in a book-themed scavenger hunt, and enjoy storytelling sessions.

Tampa Sip and Paint | 1-4 p.m. | New World Tampa | $39 | Laze into the Sunday afternoon by sipping on brews and paint a vibrant, underwater scene with coral, ocean life, and two sea turtles.

“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” | 3 p.m. | Tampa Theatre | $10 | Cozy into a cushy red seat for the 1975 British comedy film based on the Arthurian legend, written and performed by the legendary Monty Python comedy group.

Impress your friends with these picks

Click here to have your event featured.

News Notes

Announced

The Tampa Arts Alliance just announced plans to move downtown. Leaders are trying to raise $1.2 million to revamp the office opposite Lykes Gaslight Square. The plans for the space including installing ceiling railings to accommodate moveable walls, so the office can host both gallery displays and events.(Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)

Show

Girls Rock St. Pete returns this weekend. Head to Jannus Live to watch some of the Burg’s youngest rockers (ages 8-17) — in their newly formed bands — perform on the outdoor venue’s stage. Tickets to the Saturday, July 19 show start at $10. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)

Outdoors

State officials report that 11 people have been infected by flesh-eating bacteria this summer. Experts say the bacteria can enter your skin through a cut when you’re swimming in water contaminated with the bacteria. Allow your wound to heal before swimming, or wear a bandage. (WUSF News)

Edu

Thanks, Titus. Titus O’Neil is hosting his annual Back-to-School Bash at Raymond James Stadium on Saturday, July 26. Kids can get free backpacks, vision and medical screenings + enjoy games, eats, and lots of entertainment. (That’s So Tampa)

Real Estate

Sandalwood Beach Resort on North Redington Beach is comin’ down. A group of local investors paid $6 million for the hurricane-damaged beachfront motel. Owners haven’t announced plans for the property yet, but the hotel will likely be demolished. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)

Open

In case you missed it, there’s a new spot to sample South Indian street food in the Big Guava. Saddle up to Annapoorna Rasoi, parked beside the Hillsborough River. The food truck serves up pav bhaji, medu vada, and masala dosas. (That’s So Tampa)

Sports

Tristan Wirfs’ injury + the battle between Benjamin Morrison and Jamel Dean are some of the biggest headlines heading into training camp. Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Locked On’s daily podcasts.

Eat

The 2nd Annual Polk County Burger Week kicks off today. Now through Sunday, July 27, get proof that Central Florida is rooted in flavor with unique burgers all over the region, and toppings from mac and cheese to peanut butter. Dig into the local lineup.*

Shop

Love Costco? Buy a lot of meat? Then you should invest in this simple tool mentioned in No. 9 on this list of 11 must-know Costco hacks.*

Featured Deal

It’s Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale, aka prime time to save on top brands like Olaplex, Dyson, Madewell, UGG, Hoka, and Birkenstock. We’re eyeing: $30 off these luxe high-waist leggings.*

Number

51,700. That’s how many potential candidates are looking at this right now. Ready to promote your job listing to find your dream hire? It’s absolutely free on our TBAYtoday Job Board. List it now.

The Buy

No more gatekeeping. These are our top five summer essentials we wish we’d purchased sooner:

🩴 A pair of comfy + versatile Crocs sandals. Pro tip: Keep them by the front door for last-minute errands, walking the dog, and more.
🧊This No. 1 best-selling cooler backpack that features a built-in bottle opener and can fit up to 40 cans.
🧺 A waterproof blanket that’s perfect for beach days, family picnics, baby playtime, and more.
☀️ La Roche-Posay’s award-winning tinted sunscreen that’s non-greasy and fast-absorbing.
👗This flowy sundress that’s available in 20+ colors and patterns like blue floral, pink, khaki polka dot, and purple.

More worth The Buy

Games

The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.

Let the games begin

The Wrap

A second The Salty Donut just opened its doors in Seminole Heights. Aren’t we lucky?

I’d recommend picking up the guava and cheese or the Samoa cookie donut. But that’s up to you.

Send us a scoop, question, or feedback

† Disclaimers and Legal | * Advertising Policy

The company may also generate commission from affiliate links in the newsletter.

Change your preferences or unsubscribe here.

P.O. Box 2505, Greenville, SC 29602