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A tiny home village for veterans is being developed in East Tampa, with a $500,000 investment bringing ten homes online. Founded by Dr. Mark T. Jones Sr., Manifestations Worldwide Inc. aims to offer affordable housing to veterans, contributing to the Department of Veterans Affairs' goals of reducing homelessness among former service members.
University of Florida professor Rob Ferl became the first academic to conduct an experiment in space on a suborbital spacecraft, marking a significant milestone in academic research in space. His achievement was facilitated through a NASA-funded program on Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft.
Tiffany’s Family Restaurant, a beloved family-owned diner in Palm Harbor, closed its doors for good after 40 years of service. The diner was known for its all-day breakfast and comfort food, serving locals and politicians alike.
Demetrious Dontay Jones, a 36-year-old campus activities monitor at Richard O. Jacobsen Technical High School in Seminole, was arrested on a charge of sexual battery for having sex with a 15-year-old student in his vehicle. The arrest was made by Pinellas Park police after an investigation into the incident, which occurred at an apartment complex.
An 11-year-old boy named Joey Sims, who is bravely fighting brain cancer, had the opportunity to become a pilot for a day during a special flight to Ocala. This experience brought him immense joy and excitement, showcasing the power of community support and the impact of making dreams come true for children facing serious health challenges.
Pasco County's noninstructional school employee union has reached a new contract agreement with the school district, promising raises for bus drivers, classroom aides, and other support staff. The agreement includes a 1.25% increase in base salaries and an additional 2.25% raise for employees who completed a full year of employment last school year.
Former President Donald Trump announced he will vote against Florida's Amendment 4, which aims to protect abortion access, citing the Democrats' "radical" stance on the issue, which he claims includes support for late-term abortions. This statement was made during a Fox News interview and contrasts with his previous criticism of Florida's six-week abortion ban as being too restrictive.
The University of Florida (UF) has spent a significant amount of money on travel expenses for staff members who were hired under then-President Ben Sasse's tenure and allowed to work remotely. These expenses have raised concerns following Sasse's unexpected resignation, adding to the scrutiny over his office's use of public funds.
A recent decision by local voters has led to the establishment of the Office of the Independent Inspector General in Miami, aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in government operations. This new office is anticipated to increase public trust and accountability in local governance, reflecting the community's desire for greater oversight. City officials are optimistic about the positive impact this initiative will have on governance in Miami.
Joe Lopano, the transformative CEO of Tampa International Airport, announced his retirement set for April 2025, leaving behind a legacy of significant improvements, including a new rental car center and an upcoming international terminal. His leadership has been praised by local officials, marking a pivotal moment for the airport as it transitions to new management.