Havana Cruises, Eaglet Watch, Bouncing Baby Tiger: Good News

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. The following are some of more lighthearted stories that have had folks talking over the past few weeks:

Sarasota Baby Born In McDonald’s Bathroom: Report

Parker Jordan is going to have one whopper of a story to tell his own kids when he grows up. While more than a few babies are born on roadsides, in taxis and other unusual locations each year, Parker’s arrival may one-up them all.

Watch Live Stream: Florida Eaglets Set To Hatch For The Holidays

While children across the country are eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival later this week, Harriet and her new mate M15 are preparing for the arrival of a pair of eaglets. The two are set to become parents sometime between Christmas and New Year’s.

McDonald’s Loving Gator Gets To Stay With Florida Woman

Christmas came early for Lakeland’s Mary Thorn and her alligator Rambo. After a lengthy back-and-forth with state wildlife officials, it’s been decided the McDonald’s eating, ATV-riding critter should remain in Thorn’s care.

Female Ringmaster Breaks Ringling's Glass Ceiling

A 35-year-old Florida native with a firecracker personality and “rock star” energy has broken a glass ceiling few may have known still existed. Kristen Michelle Wilson has been named the 39th ringmaster for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. She’ll make her debut as the first-ever female leading the show in early January.

Video: Adorable Malayan Tiger Cub Makes Lowry Park Zoo Debut

A rare Malayan tiger cub with a plucky personality made her official public debut at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo Wednesday. While Berisi was born a star due to her critically endangered status, zoo officials say her antics make her even more so.

Orlando Magic Moving D-League Team to Lakeland

Basketball fans won’t have to make the trek to Orlando to take in professional play much longer. The Magic’s ownership group has announced its intention to purchase the Erie BayHawks and move the D-League team to Lakeland.

MacDill AirFest 2018 Dates Announced

Tampa Bay area residents eager for the return of MacDill’s AirFest have some dates to put on their calendars. The 6th Air Mobility Wing confirmed Tuesday that the show will make a return in 2018.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season 2016 Breaks Records

Sea turtle lovers have reason to celebrate. Mote Marine Laboratory’s scientists have reported that the 2016 nesting season from Longboat Key south to Venice was a record-breaker.

Tampa to Havana Cruises Set Sail Next Year

Tampa Bay area residents who would rather skip the trip to Miami to set sail for Cuba will be able to do so starting early next year. Royal Caribbean has announced its Empress of the Seas will make two trips to Havana from the Port of Tampa in 2017.

Photo courtesy of Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo