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Environmental experts and local residents are raising concerns about a recent land swap involving Withlacoochee State Forest, which has been approved by the Florida Cabinet under Governor Ron DeSantis. Critics argue that the deal, which gives forest land to a luxury golf resort in exchange for less biodiverse timberland, undermines conservation efforts and lacks transparency.
NASA astronauts Cmdr. Barry "Butch" Wilmore and pilot Sunita "Suni" Williams expressed their lack of disappointment regarding Boeing’s Starliner issues during a teleconference from the International Space Station. Their mission, initially planned for eight days, has extended to eight months due to complications with the spacecraft, leading them to return home on a SpaceX Dragon capsule instead.
Firefighters in Southern California have made significant progress against three major wildfires, aided by cooler temperatures. The largest blaze, the Bridge Fire, has burned 81 square miles, leading to the evacuation of 10,000 people and the destruction of several homes and cabins.
Katherine Sticklin, a 28-year-old youth counselor at A Kid's Place in Tampa Bay, was arrested for allegedly performing sexual acts on a minor in her care. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reported that Sticklin pressured the child into sexual activity, using social media to send explicit images and continuing her advances even after being blocked. She faces serious charges, including lewd or lascivious touching and unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
U.S. stocks concluded their best week of the year, driven by a rally in major technology companies and growing anticipation of an interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve. The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average approached their all-time highs, buoyed by easing Treasury yields and optimism in the bond market.
Newsome High School in Lithia was placed on lockdown due to a reported threat, prompting a significant response from law enforcement. After several hours of investigation, students were dismissed on time, with no credible threat found. The incident follows a worrying trend of false threats in the area since a recent school shooting in Georgia.
Pinellas County officials are releasing 911 calls from Hurricane Idalia to raise awareness about the flooding dangers during hurricane season. The recordings aim to emphasize the importance of evacuation orders to protect residents from life-threatening situations. Emergency Management Director Cathie Perkins highlights the risks associated with flooding and the uncertainty of water levels.
A Bay Area civil rights activist, Carl Soto, is alleging police brutality following his arrest, which was recorded on a Hillsborough County deputy's bodycam. The sheriff's office has stated that the deputy involved did not violate any policies during the incident.
A strike by approximately 33,000 Boeing machinists has halted production of key aircraft models, including the 737 Max, following the rejection of a contract offer. While commercial flights are not immediately affected, prolonged disruption could lead to significant financial losses for the company.
A new ordinance in Bradenton is being considered to change the last call for alcohol to 2 a.m. in response to recent violent incidents that occurred after bar closing times. Local leaders aim to enhance safety for residents, visitors, and law enforcement amid growing concerns over public disturbances.