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A series of weather alerts have been issued in Florida, including River Flood Warnings in Pasco, Hillsborough, and DeSoto counties, as well as a Rip Current Statement along the coastline. Residents of Pinellas County are receiving assistance following Hurricane Debby, and local officials are raising awareness about flooding dangers as hurricane season progresses.
Disaster assistance is now available for Pinellas County residents affected by Hurricane Debby. Eligible individuals can apply for help with temporary lodging, home repairs, and other expenses incurred due to the disaster. More information and application details can be found online.
A driver with a blood-alcohol level of .087, above New Jersey's legal limit, has been charged with the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while they were biking. The incident occurred just before the brothers were to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding. The suspect, Sean Higgins, has a history of road rage and has been ordered detained until trial.
Pasco County's library system has removed 130 children's books featuring LGBTQ+ themes for review following a county commissioner's concerns about their appropriateness. This decision reflects a larger ongoing debate in Florida regarding the availability of such literature in public schools and libraries. The situation has drawn attention to the challenges faced by libraries amid political pressures and community responses.
A cracked sewer pipe in Pinellas County caused over 4 million gallons of raw sewage to spill into the neighborhood near 53rd Avenue North and 110th Street North, marking the third such incident since 2021. Residents, including Barry Medlock, reported significant flooding and sewage overflow, prompting county officials to respond with cleanup efforts. Improvements to the aging infrastructure are underway to prevent future spills.
A lawsuit filed by Republican candidate Thomas Feiter alleges that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other GOP officials conspired to run a sham candidate, Seth Hyman, in the Orange-Osceola state attorney's race to benefit DeSantis' appointee, Andrew Bain. The lawsuit claims election fraud and seeks to invalidate the GOP primary results, asserting that Hyman's candidacy was a deliberate ploy to eliminate competition.
Laura Loomer, a controversial figure in Florida politics known for her Islamophobic remarks, has recently been spotted as a travel companion of former President Donald Trump. Despite her divisive rhetoric and a history of failed political campaigns, Loomer's connection to Trump raises questions about her role in the current political landscape. The article explores her background and the implications of her association with Trump.
An Uber driver, Steeve Louis, has been found guilty of three counts of sexual battery after assaulting a 20-year-old international student in August 2023. The jury's decision highlights the serious issue of safety for rideshare passengers, particularly vulnerable individuals such as international students.
Tropical Storm Gordon is being monitored by the National Hurricane Center as it develops in the Atlantic, with no immediate threat to Florida. The storm is expected to slightly strengthen before weakening, while other systems in the Caribbean and near the southeastern U.S. coast are also under observation.
Polk County Fire Chief Hezedean Smith has resigned following a report highlighting a toxic work environment and low morale within the fire rescue department. The resignation was accepted by County Manager Bill Beasley, emphasizing the serious nature of the allegations.