Rescued Raccoon | Top Employers In FL | Floral Art Show: FL Good News

FLORIDA — A raccoon with a jar on its head rescued from a tree in Central Florida, a man and his dog find a missing 81-year-old woman in a ditch, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar makes its debut, a new Barnes & Noble.

See these good news stories and more from this week's Florida Patch sites.

Boulon 'Barkery's' Bark Bites To Benefit Humane Society Of Tampa

Executive Pastry Chef Summer Bailey said the treats, featuring bacon and peanut butter, have been a big hit with her four-legged customers.

Floral Art Show In St. Pete Raises Funds To Launch Florist Trade Union

Bloomers, a live, immersive floral exhibit on display in St. Pete this weekend, is raising funds for the Tampa Bay Florists’ Fund.

Dunedin Culinary Arts Center Offers New Program For Challenged Student

This program is designed to provide customized training for those interested in food preparation and basic cooking skills.

Series Of 'Quick-Build Projects' Designed To Make Tampa Streets Safer

Thanks to a $20 million grant, the city is embarking on a series of "quick-build projects" to quickly complete safety projects.

Cambria Hotels Breaks Ground On Upscale Brand In Brandon

The five-story, 102-room property is slated to open in late September 2024.

Man, Dog Rescue 81-Year-old Woman From Muddy Ditch: North Port Police

An 81-year-old woman was rescued from a “muddy, hot and wet retention ditch” thanks to a man and his dog, North Port police said.

800 New Students To Converge On Saint Leo University For School Year

Saint Leo University is ready to welcome new, transfer and returning students to its residential campus in Pasco County.

Portion Of I-275 Dedicated To Pinellas Deputy Michael Hartwick

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office unveiled a sign officially dedicating a portion of Interstate 275 in honor of Deputy Michael Hartwick.

Construction Begins On New Veterinary Hospital In FishHawk Ranch

This clinic will be Dr. Andrea Caspary’s second animal hospital after opening her first GoodVets in South Tampa in March.

15 Years Of Shopping Local: LocalShops1 Celebrates Anniversary

LocalShops1 celebrates its 15th anniversary with “The Party of the Year” Thursday night at the Floridian in downtown St. Petersburg.

Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar To Make Tampa Bay Debut In Lutz In September

According to CEO Jonathan Weathington, the key to the brand’s success has been creating an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

Sarasota’s Only Kombucha Tap Room Creates a Sober, Safe Space

Flobucha in Sarasota’s Gulf Gate neighborhood serves raw kombucha brewed on site and creates a sober space for people to gather.

These Are The Best Employers In FL, Forbes Says In New Ranking

Ninety companies operating in Florida are among America’s Best Employers By State ranked by Forbes.

Odessa Hooters Girl Places In Top 10 Of Miss Hooters World Pageant

Kiana Mahabir, who works at the Odessa Hooters, placed in the top 10 in the Miss Hooters International pageant in Las Vegas on Aug. 3.

Tampa To Unveil Improvements At Firefighters Training Grounds

The preview will take place Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 2:15 p.m. at the Tampa Fire & Police Training Complex, 116 S 34th St., Tampa.

Raccoon Trapped In Jar Saved By Central FL Firefighters: Marion County

Firefighters saved a raccoon trapped in a tree with a jar stuck on his head, Marion County Fire Rescue said.

Barnes & Noble To Open New Brandon Bookstore In Regency Square

Author Lincoln Child will host a ribbon-cutting and book-signing at the new store on Wednesday.

Cowork Space Opens At Church Equity, Justice Center In St. Petersburg

The Allendale Equity & Justice Center opened its new coworking space in St. Petersburg with desks available on a sliding scale.

Play To Explore Impact Of Environmental Tragedy On Farming Families

LAB Theater Project will present "Drift," a compelling new play by Patrick Gabridge, on three weekends, Sept. 9-24.