Hometown Hero: Young patient keeps hospital toy closet full

The toy closet is constantly full at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and it's all thanks to 9-year-old Addison.

More than $1.5 billion in unclaimed property going to auction

The Chief Financial Officer of the state of Florida holds an unclaimed property auction every year, giving residents a chance to get their hands on more than $1.5 billion in items.

Takata recall affects 2.7 million more vehicles

Takata is adding 2.7 million vehicles from Ford, Nissan and Mazda to the long list of those being recalled to replace potentially dangerous air bag inflators. The inflators are a new type that previously was thought to be safe. Vehicles affected are from the 2005 through 2012 model years.

Free dental exams for Pinellas kids

The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas wants to make sure all of the county’s kids are smiling for the new school year.  They are hosting a free dental clinic on July 15.

Woman paralyzed at waist conquers diving lessons

A lesson in perseverance: one woman is going to great lengths to reach her goal, despite a challenge that would sideline most people for life.

Hillsborough residents line up to take home mosquito fish

In parts of Hillsborough County, residents are lining up for fish, but they aren't for eating or keeping in a fish tank.

Father pushes for 'autism child' signs to slow drivers

A father in Citrus County says he's sick of people speeding past his house, making it dangerous for his son with autism to play outside. He called the county about getting a sign, warning drivers to beware a child with autism lives nearby, but was told no such sign exists.

Bike theft too common of a problem in Tampa

A man walks up to a home in Seminole Heights and snatches away a pricey bike. But thanks to a home surveillance camera, police work, and a helpful pawn shop, that bike is back where it belongs.

Volunteers needed for After the Fireworks cleanup effort

Fourth of July fireworks are beautiful, but the festivities and the shows can leave behind a big mess. 

Get a taste of 'Sparklebration'

Sparklebration is the place to be in Pasco County on Independence Day.  Everything from food-eating contests to fireworks is on the schedule in Dade City.

Hometown Hero: DARE Dachshund rescue

Alicia Duval's home has gone to the dogs. And not just any pups -- this Hometown Hero has a heart for dachshunds.

Pepin family takes hospital fundraising to new heights

Tom Pepin is used to going to great heights to raise money for Florida Hospital Tampa Pepin Heart Institute, the cardiovascular hospital in Tampa that bears his family name. But, this time, he's attempting to climb a bigger mountain, literally.

List of deals: How Florida residents can 'staycation' in style

From the Sandpearl to the Windham Grand, Opal Sands, and Postcard Inn, we've put together a list of the best deals around the bay. Whether you want to spend a night, a week, or just the afternoon in the lap of luxury, make sure to cash in on your Florida resident discounts, because we live where everyone else vacations.

New Florida school grades show improvement

The Florida School Grades web page includes links to School Accountability Reports, downloadable files on school and district performance outcomes, calculation guides and additional resources on school grades.

Sarasota donut shop aims for 'ridiculous' creations

A new donut bakery in Sarasota has a novel way to guarantee fresh donuts – when they’ve sold out of their day’s fresh donuts, they close.

Good Day Gourmet: Creamy coconut & cashew tofu

If you haven't tried tofu, this is the way to do it. It's hard to go wrong with the delicious mix of coconut and cashew.

Last day to vote for Clearwater dog as national hero

There is only one day left to vote for a Bay Area rescue dog, who now helps investigate crimes, for the American Humane Hero Dog Awards.