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K-8 schools are experiencing a resurgence in popularity across Tampa Bay, with districts like Pinellas and Pasco expanding their K-8 programs to meet parental demand. While many parents appreciate the continuity of education through middle school years, concerns exist regarding the age mix and availability of elective courses.
The U.S. Coast Guard is actively searching for 70-year-old Bert Erwin, who was last seen departing Rose Marina in Marco Island en route to Indian Rocks Beach. Both Erwin and his white fishing boat remain missing as search efforts continue. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Coast Guard.
Hurricane Francine made landfall in Louisiana as a Category 2 hurricane, bringing winds of 100 mph. The storm is expected to weaken rapidly but could cause significant rainfall and flooding across southeastern Louisiana and Mississippi.
Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns quarterback, strongly denies allegations of sexual assault made against him in a civil lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed in Texas, claims Watson assaulted a woman during a dinner date four years ago, and he is currently under NFL investigation for possible violations of the league’s personal conduct policy. Despite the allegations, Watson's coach stated there are no plans to bench him for the upcoming game.
Hurricane Francine is moving through the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday evening. Residents are advised to prepare for deteriorating conditions as the storm approaches.
Five adults in Florida have been charged in connection with the starvation death of 7-year-old Deonte Atwell, who had disabilities and required extensive medical care. The investigation revealed he weighed only 7 pounds at the time of his death, with evidence indicating he had not received necessary feeding and medical support.
The Tampa Water Department will temporarily switch its water disinfection method from monochloramine to chlorine from September 16 to October 7, 2024, as part of routine maintenance. Customers may notice changes in the smell and taste of their water but can take steps to mitigate the effects. The change is standard practice for water utilities in the region.
Trinity Cafe's Busch Boulevard location in Tampa is closing its sit-down meal service due to a decline in attendance and a shift to drive-thru service. Volunteers express concern over how those without transportation will access alternative meal sites, which are farther away and less frequent. The downtown Tampa and St. Petersburg locations will remain operational to continue serving the community.
The Florida Supreme Court is expediting a lawsuit challenging Governor Ron DeSantis and state officials for allegedly misusing state resources to campaign against Amendment 4, which seeks to protect abortion rights. The complaint, filed by a Palm Beach County attorney, claims that a state-created website improperly influences the election. The case highlights growing tensions surrounding abortion legislation in Florida.
Florida's competitive U.S. House races have diminished due to recent redistricting, with a current partisan breakdown of 20 Republicans and 8 Democrats. Four races are deemed "potentially vulnerable," primarily in GOP-held districts, while three Democratic seats have solidified their incumbency.