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SUNDAY ROUNDUP

Check out the week’s most-read stories.

Sunday, Oct 18, 2026

Who qualifies for the $90 Medicare check?

The federal government’s one-time payment will go to more than 20 million enrollees. Read more.

Updated: CNN reports that Trump won’t attend Bucs game in Tampa, reversing course

After CNN reported about the planned stop at Raymond James, the news outlet reported that White House officials called it off. Read more.

Pinellas approves 6 school closures, with one still under review

The school board rejected pleas from Tarpon Springs parents who asked for more time. Read more.

Rays face tight stadium construction timeline. Are they on pace?

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor says a groundbreaking on the stadium is “imminent,” with team leaders promising completion by 2029. Read more.

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School board candidate’s alleged affairs rile critics in Pasco

Mollyana Ward faces Matt Geiger in the race to replace retiring school board member Cynthia Armstrong. Read more.

Watch Warren Sapp leave Tampa City Hall after police warning

Body camera footage shows the minutes after the former Buccaneers player was issued a trespass warning last month. Read more.

See aerial images before and after Hurricane Isaias hit Florida’s Panhandle

The National Ocean Service continues to survey some of the hardest-hit areas after Hurricane Isaias made landfall Friday night. Read more.

Heathrow will be Tampa’s sole London destination

British Airways is switching from Gatwick to Heathrow, opening up more options for connecting flights. Read more.

Man faces murder charge after girlfriend shot in Safety Harbor bar dies

Christopher “Dodge” Smith is now charged with first-degree murder after Jessica Antolini, 30, died in the hospital two days after he shot her near the Harbor Bar, deputies said. Read more.

Kitty’s House of Pizza to open soon in St. Petersburg’s Central Oak Park

The founders of Bright Ice Scoop Shop branch out into their first savory spot. Read more.

Today's DayStarter was compiled by Kiley Petracek.

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