![Ariel Plasencia](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox13news.com/www.fox13news.com/content/uploads/2023/04/180/180/Ariel-2023.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Ariel Plasencia
Ariel Plasencia joined FOX 13 in April 2023 and is excited to be reporting in the Sunshine State.
Ariel spent the last four years in Dallas, TX covering news, sports (yes, including the Cowboys), and traffic. From stories on TCU’s run in the College Football Playoff National Championship to issues with the power grid to all things barbecue, Ariel wore many (cowboy) hats during her time in the Lone Star State.
Before Texas, she worked as a reporter and anchor in North Carolina.
A Chicago native, Ariel grew up in cold, windy weather and studied math at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. She received her master’s degree in journalism at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
When she’s not working, Ariel enjoys watching her Chicago sports teams (go Cubs, Bears, Bulls & Blackhawks!) with her husband and dog.
The latest from Ariel Plasencia
'Boom by the Bay' Fourth of July fireworks celebration lights up downtown Tampa
Tampa's signature Fourth of July event, dubbed Boom by the Bay, lit up the night sky downtown with the city's annual fireworks display.
Some dogs return to Hillsborough County animal shelter after dog flu outbreak
This week, 60 dogs returned to the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center (PRC) after all dogs were moved out of the facility to an offsite location thanks to a dog flu outbreak.
Tampa gearing up for Boom by the Bay celebration
The mayor of Tampa and other city leaders are gearing up for the annual Boom by the Bay celebration on July 4.
Tampa city council members to get $20K salary boost
Tampa City Council approved a $20,000 raise in its salary, which represents a 36% boost in pay.
Property fraud investigation extends from Bay Area to South Florida: Court documents
A 50-year-old man who was arrested in Tampa amid property fraud allegations is facing similar charges in Miami-Dade County, court documents show.
Hillsborough County property fraud alert system helped catch married couple accused of stealing home
A married couple was arrested and accused of forging deeds, and the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court said its free alert system notified the homeowner of the suspicious activity.
Bay Area animal shelters not accepting new dogs during dog flu outbreak
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay and the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center confirm they are both dealing with dog flu outbreaks at their facilities.
Hillsborough County has confirmed case of locally transmitted dengue fever
The Florida Department of Health issued a health alert to inform residents of a confirmed human case of locally acquired dengue fever in Hillsborough County.
UF scientists helping Bay Area breweries produce better beer
University of Florida scientists welcomed two new machines to their research center in Wimauma, which they say could help Bay Area breweries better the beer-making process by converting fresh hops into pellet hops.
DeSantis signs two bills in Pasco County to expand veteran programs, benefits
Governor Ron DeSantis signed two bills in Pasco County on Thursday, expanding programs and benefits for veterans.