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Hawkers, an Orlando-based Asian street food restaurant chain, is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to shield itself from a lender it describes as "hyper-aggressive." Despite the filing, all 15 restaurant locations will continue normal operations while the company seeks to negotiate new loan terms.
Pinellas County school officials are grappling with the implications of a new state law requiring later start times for middle and high schools by 2026. The changes necessitate significant logistical adjustments, including transportation and school choice programs, and the district seeks input from parents on their preferences.
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.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced an investigation into the apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, asserting state jurisdiction over the case. DeSantis expressed skepticism regarding the objectivity of federal investigators and emphasized the importance of state law in this matter.
The Wounded Warrior Project is organizing its annual Carry Forward 5k event in Clearwater, Florida, on September 28. Participants are encouraged to show support for wounded veterans by carrying flags, weights, or even people during the race. This event aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by combat veterans in the Tampa area.
A 23-year-old man, Gabriel Gladman, has been sentenced to prison for illegally supplying firearms to juveniles in Tampa. The U.S. Attorney's Office reported that Gladman made false statements to purchase guns, which were later used in violent crimes. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding gun violence and youth safety in the region.
St. Petersburg police will increase their presence on local roads over the coming months to enhance bike and pedestrian safety. The initiative aims to engage with the community rather than enforce penalties, fostering a safer environment for all road users.
A 16-year-old boy named Peter Hyman Jr. was shot and killed outside the Citrus Park Town Center Mall in Tampa, Florida, prompting an investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. His mother, Bianca Cooper, is seeking answers regarding the tragic incident that occurred on a typical Saturday evening.
A new study by Dr. Dipayan Biswas, a marketing professor at the University of South Florida, finds that sampling healthy foods may lead consumers to make less healthy choices later. This phenomenon is attributed to "moral licensing," where individuals feel justified in indulging after engaging in positive behavior. Biswas encourages consumers to consider the relationship between sampled foods and their intended purchases.
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.