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Keith Watts has been appointed as St. Petersburg's first African American fire chief in 117 years, succeeding former Chief James Large. With over 30 years of public safety experience, Watts emphasizes his commitment to innovation, safety, and community engagement, striving to serve a purpose beyond his historic appointment.
Wesley Chapel is set to welcome its first Hooters restaurant in the summer of 2025, strategically located next to the Wesley Chapel Harley-Davidson dealership. This new 4,500-square-foot restaurant will mark the third Hooters location in Pasco County, joining existing establishments in Port Richey and Odessa.
Testing reveals that several hemp products sold in Florida contain illegal levels of THC and harmful pesticides. These findings raise concerns as voters consider legalizing recreational marijuana, highlighting the risks associated with the state's unregulated hemp industry.
The article discusses the challenges facing Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which damaged the stadium's roof. As city officials consider a substantial investment for repairs, they grapple with broader implications for the Tampa Bay Rays and future redevelopment plans. This situation highlights the intersection of sports, local politics, and financial considerations in the region.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Republican Party are joining forces with hemp companies to oppose Amendment 3, which would legalize recreational marijuana in the state. An investigation reveals that these hemp companies, which sell products exceeding the legal THC limit, have been making campaign donations to DeSantis and his political committee, raising questions about regulatory oversight.
Contractors in Seminole have raised prices for hurricane debris removal, prompting the City Council to amend agreements with Pinellas County and AshBritt Inc. The increase in fees, from $9 to $14.98 for vegetation and from $9.50 to $18 for construction debris, raises concerns about potential reimbursement from FEMA.
Indian Rocks Beach officials estimate debris removal costs from recent hurricanes Helene and Milton to reach $1.5 million, following significant damage to the area. City Manager Gregg Mims reported that over 25,000 cubic yards of debris have already been cleared, thanks to the rapid response and increased resources dedicated to recovery efforts.
A developing weather disturbance in the southwestern Caribbean Sea is expected to strengthen into at least a tropical depression in the coming days, as reported by the National Hurricane Center. This situation raises concerns for those in the affected regions, particularly in areas prone to tropical weather events.
As the 2024 general election approaches, early voting in the Tampa Bay area is in full swing, with hundreds of thousands of Floridians participating. This final weekend of early voting is critical for ensuring voter engagement ahead of Election Day. The article emphasizes the urgency and importance of casting ballots during this decisive time.
A University of Tampa student has been granted bond after being accused of suffocating her newborn baby, which was discovered in a trash can on campus. This incident raises significant concerns regarding student safety and mental health on university grounds. The case highlights the urgent need for support systems within educational institutions for pregnant students.