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Tampa is set to host its second annual World Car-Free Day on September 22, 2024, encouraging residents to explore alternative modes of transportation including walking and biking. This event aims to promote sustainable living and raise awareness about the benefits of reducing car dependency.
A recent survey indicates that nearly 40% of Florida faculty members have applied for positions in other states, while 44% plan to do so in the future. This trend is largely attributed to dissatisfaction with the state's political climate, particularly following recent legislation affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
At least 20 people were killed and over 450 wounded in Beirut, Lebanon, due to a series of explosions involving electronic devices, one day after a similar incident involving pagers resulted in multiple casualties. The attacks are believed to be linked to ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, raising fears of further conflict in the region.
Clearwater officials are urging residents to be more cautious about what they place in recycling bins, as recent data shows that 50% of collected items were not recyclable and ended up in landfills. Improper recycling practices have led to significant contamination issues, jeopardizing efforts to recycle properly.
Gun violence has become the leading cause of death among teens and children, prompting community advocates to seek solutions. A St. Petersburg family, who lost their son to gun violence, is actively engaging with the community to prevent similar tragedies for other families.
Victory High School is set to hold its "Golfing for Victory" charity golf tournament on September 30 to raise funds for its nonprofit recovery school aimed at helping teens struggling with addiction. The event will support the school's mission, which has expanded to three locations across the Tampa Bay area.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo's latest guidance against the new COVID-19 vaccine has been met with criticism from experts, who argue that it is flawed and dangerous. Ladapo's guidance repeats debunked claims about the vaccine's safety and effectiveness, raising concerns about the potential impact on public health and the spread of misinformation.
Tampa's city council has approved a $1.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, which includes funding to make HART's Route 1 bus service free for one year. The decision was supported by residents during a public hearing, highlighting the benefits for economic, racial, and environmental justice.
The City of Tampa is set to honor the late Dr. Walter L. Smith with a ceremonial street renaming on September 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. on N. Albany Avenue. Dr. Smith, a Tampa native and the former president of Florida A&M University, made significant contributions to education and the community. The event will celebrate his legacy and contributions alongside city officials, community members, and family.
Forecasters are currently monitoring two potential tropical systems, including one that may develop over the northwestern Caribbean Sea with a 20% chance of formation. The National Hurricane Center has indicated that these systems could pose varying levels of threat, although one is not expected to impact land. The 2024 hurricane season is projected to be extremely active, with 23 named storms anticipated.