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 spending time outdoors – as close to water as possible! – with her husband, two kids and dog. She also loves cheering on the local sports teams – and her Chicago ones, too! (Go Cubs, Bears, Bulls & Blackhawks!)
The latest from Ariel Plasencia
Tampa ramps up road repaving spending to $41M, aims to break its 2025 record
The city of Tampa continues to repave streets, hoping to top last year's record of 76 lane miles.
Tampa's Breakaway Music Festival brings EDM crowds, economic boost and inclusion to the city
Tens of thousands of electronic dance music (EDM) fans are expected at Raymond James Stadium for the two-day Breakaway Music Festival Friday and Saturday.
Tampa weekend events: Concerts, festivals and downtown family fun -- What to know before you go
Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out these events in downtown Tampa:
‘Walk in My Shoes’ comes to Tampa, bringing awareness and healing to survivors of child sexual abuse
Walkers hit the pavement in Tampa Thursday for the "Walk in My Shoes" trek in the fight to prevent child sexual abuse.
Tampa International Airport announces first major ticketing level overhaul since 1971
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about to completely redesign its ticketing level on the second floor, which will include adding more space near ticket counters and more self-check-in kiosks.
Gasparilla Music Festival returns to Tampa in brand-new home
The Gasparilla Music Festival is making a comeback this weekend in Tampa after a one-year hiatus, relocating to Meridian Fields near Water Street and Channelside.
Florida Aquarium gets donated AquaFence flood barrier to protect 20,000 animals from hurricanes
AquaFence is donating one of its systems to the Florida Aquarium to protect the waterfront facility and its 20,000 animals from future hurricanes.
Pinellas County Schools rolling out weapons detection pilot at two high schools starting Tuesday
The Pinellas County School district is launching a weapons detection pilot program at Palm Harbor University High School and Gibbs High School starting Tuesday.
UTampa physician assistant students trade textbooks for TGH Aeromed trauma training
A Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Aeromed helicopter landed on the turf at University of Tampa's Pepin Stadium Friday to give physician assistant (PA) students a real-world look at critical care transport.
Hollywood comes to the Don CeSar: New movie 'The Statement' starring Paul Rudd is filming in St. Pete Beach
Actor Paul Rudd is set to star in a new movie filming in St. Pete Beach — and you might recognize some of the movie extras as your neighbors.