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‘I’ll never stop missing you’: Dozens mourn teen who died swimming off Miami Beach

A heartfelt memorial was held for 19-year-old Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr., who tragically drowned while swimming off Miami Beach. Friends and family gathered at South Pointe Beach, sharing memories and honoring his legacy as a protector, particularly towards his younger sister during the incident. The community's mourning reflects the profound impact of his loss.

Sacred Heart Festival cut short after ‘juvenile disruptions,’ Pinellas Park police say

The Sacred Heart Festival in Pinellas Park was abruptly cut short due to disruptions caused by juveniles, according to local police. Typically a family-friendly event, the festival's early conclusion highlights concerns about safety and community dynamics.

Hundreds of rental units planned for Marine Parkway in New Port Richey

The New Port Richey City Council has initiated the zoning change process for the proposed Villa del Sol development, which aims to construct up to 473 rental units on Marine Parkway. The development will include a mix of single-family townhomes and multifamily apartment buildings, with rent prices tailored to various income levels, addressing local housing concerns.

Sara weakens into a tropical depression after making landfall near Belize

Tropical Storm Sara has weakened into a tropical depression after making landfall near Belize, with forecasters predicting rapid dissipation over the Yucatan Peninsula. Leftover moisture from the storm is expected to enhance rainfall along the U.S. Gulf Coast, particularly affecting areas from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle early next week.

Man accused of filming another man using the bathroom at Pinellas Park Circle K

A man was arrested at a Pinellas Park Circle K for allegedly using his phone to film another man in a bathroom stall. This incident raises concerns about privacy rights and public safety, highlighting ongoing issues related to surveillance and harassment in public spaces.

Employee at Dunedin restaurant arrested for stealing $57k since 2021, PCSO says

An employee of Home Plate on the Trail Restaurant in Dunedin was arrested for allegedly stealing over $57,000 since 2021 by canceling transactions and pocketing the cash. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office reported the incident following complaints from the restaurant's owners. The case underscores significant issues of employee theft and its impact on local businesses.

Bradenton woman accused of claiming she had ‘botox’ while trying to file fraudulent hurricane assistance claim

A Bradenton woman was arrested for attempting to file a fraudulent hurricane assistance claim, falsely claiming she had received Botox. The arrest highlights ongoing issues surrounding disaster assistance fraud in the region, prompting local authorities to remain vigilant against such activities.

Report: Once a sure thing, Rays stadium deal may be in peril

The Tampa Bay Rays' stadium deal faces uncertainty as the Pinellas County Commission has postponed crucial funding needed to commence construction. This development raises concerns about the future of the proposed stadium, which is vital for the team's relocation and local economic impact.

Head found on Key Biscayne belonged to teen who went missing off Miami Beach, police say

The human head discovered on a Key Biscayne beach has been identified as belonging to 19-year-old Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr., who went missing after a swimming incident off Miami Beach. His disappearance occurred while he was swimming with his younger sister, who was rescued. The Miami Beach Police Department confirmed the connection between the two cases and expressed condolences to Castaneda's family.

Trump names fossil fuel executive Chris Wright as energy secretary

Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, has been appointed as the new energy secretary by former President Donald Trump, marking a significant shift in energy policy direction. Wright is known for his strong support of the fossil fuel industry and is expected to advocate for oil and gas development at a national level.

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