Hedman Staying, Tampa a Party City, Turtle Tracking

Patch operates 23 daily news sites in Florida. The following are some of the top stories from the past day:

Grill Us Hotline Fires Up For 4th Of July

Tampa Bay area residents with burning questions about grilling have a place to turn for expert advice this 4th of July weekend.

Tampa Bay Zika Virus Cases Climb

Ten new travel-related Zika virus cases were confirmed Friday by the Florida Department of Health. Four of those cases involve residents of Tampa Bay area counties.

Victor Hedman Inks Tampa Bay Lightning Deal

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is sticking around for another eight years. The Lightning announced Hedman’s eight-year contract extension Friday afternoon.

Help Track Kreacher the Sea Turtle

Tampa Bay area residents who want to help the Clearwater Marine Aquarium keep track of a plucky little loggerhead turtle recently released back in the wild have a chance to do so.

Tampa Named One Of America’s Top Party Hubs

Tampa knows how to get its party on. That’s the conclusion the folks at Wanderu.com came to after crunching numbers to determine America’s “biggest party hubs.”

49 Celebs Honor the 49 Orlando Shooting Victims

When Omar Mateen opened fire in a crowded Orlando nightclub in the early morning hours of June 12, the lives of 49 people came to an abrupt and violent end.

Federal Judge Blocks Part Of Florida’s Abortion Law

A federal judge stepped in late Thursday to block portions of a new Florida law related to abortions.

Tampa Bay 4th Of July Weekend Weather

Tampa Bay area residents with big outdoor plans over the 4th of July weekend may have to dodge a few thunderstorms along the way.

Photo courtesy of Clearwater Marine Aquarium