Serial Burglar, Skyway Construction, Rabies Alert

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. The following are some of the top stories from the past day:

Bay Area Serial Burglar Behind Bars: Cops

St. Petersburg Police say they’ve arrested a man who may be responsible for more than a dozen residential burglaries committed across the Tampa Bay area since August.

FIFA World Cup: Tampa In Running For 2026 Games

Soccer fans across the Tampa Bay region may have reason to celebrate. The United Bid Committee announced that Tampa is among 32 cities moving on to the next stage of the process to bring the 2026 FIFA World Cup to North America. Other Florida cities in the running include Orlando and Miami.

Sunshine Skyway Construction Set To Begin

Motorists who travel the Sunshine Skyway will soon notice a buzz of activity in the rest areas. The Florida Department of Transportation announced Thursday that an $18.1 million upgrade project is set to begin Oct. 16.

New 4-Legged Deputy Reports For Duty In Sarasota

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has a new deputy on the beat. Unlike his companions, this law enforcer works for food and can sniff out a bomb.

Rabies Alert Issued In Pasco County

A rabies alert has been issued for a portion of Pasco County after a raccoon tested positive for the deadly virus earlier this week. Pasco County issued the alert, which will remain in place for 60 days, late Wednesday.

Big Easy Style, Bayshore Views

House hunters with a passion for Tampa’s Bayshore area might find this New Orleans-inspired home a rare find. Not only does it offer great views from most rooms, its lot elevation means flood insurance isn't required. Adding to its potential appeal, especially for entertainers, it has parking in both the front and rear, including its own two-car garage.

Health Care: Here’s How Many Florida Kids Are At Risk Because Of Congress Nearly 9 million kids across the country rely on health insurance from CHIP, the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Although it’s not a controversial program, Congress let its funding expire Oct. 1 — and many states may soon tell millions of families that their insurance plans are ending.

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