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Clearwater police are revisiting the 24-year-old cold case of missing boy Zachary Bernhardt by releasing an artificially aged photo to help generate new leads. Zachary, who was just 8 years old when he disappeared from his home on September 11, 2000, remains missing. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
A 15-year-old freshman in Bradenton, Florida, was arrested for making threats of a mass school shooting on Snapchat. Although he claimed the threat was a joke, authorities took the matter seriously and conducted a search, finding no weapons. Additional police presence was established at local schools as a precaution.
President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are set to meet to discuss Ukraine's request for eased restrictions on the use of Western weapons. While there are indications that the U.S. might shift its policy, officials suggest no immediate changes are expected to be announced during the talks.
Nearly $6 billion in U.S. funding for Ukraine will expire at the end of September if Congress does not act to extend the Pentagon's authority to send weapons to Kyiv. The Biden administration is urging Congress to include this funding authority in any upcoming continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown.
Traffic delays and increased parking demand are expected near the Tampa Convention Center from August 23 to 25 due to the Tampa Bay Comic Convention, which is anticipated to attract around 42,000 attendees. The event is projected to generate an economic impact of nearly $5.85 million for the city and surrounding areas. Tampa Police will be present to assist with traffic flow during this busy period.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium has officially opened its first manatee rehabilitation center, enhancing its capacity to care for injured manatees. The center will serve as a secondary holding facility, housing manatees after their initial critical care at other facilities until they are ready for release back into the wild. The first patients, Yeti and Zamboni, were rescued due to cold stress.
St. Petersburg City Council members approved a $902 million budget on its first reading, which sparked community concerns regarding inadequate funding for youth programs. Residents expressed their disappointment during a public hearing, emphasizing the need for more resources to combat youth violence and support local communities.
The Speak Your Truth Music Fest in Bradenton aims to raise funds for suicide awareness and prevention, spearheaded by Beth Vandal, lead singer of the punk rock band A New Violet. The event, taking place at Bradenton Motor Works Brewery, is co-sponsored by the Southwest Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Ybor City's Historic 7th Avenue has been restored to its original brick surface after more than 60 years, part of the 7th Avenue Bricking Project. The project, funded by the Community Redevelopment Agency, aims to enhance the area's historical character and promote economic growth for local businesses.
A 15-year-old student was arrested at Blake High School in Tampa after being found in possession of two loaded handguns. The discovery occurred during a search related to vaping violations, and fortunately, no threats were made or injuries reported. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun safety in schools.