Issue #183: DeSantis Investigates UF President's Spending, Tampa Bay Rallies for Missing Owl, Local Boy Shines on Broadway

08/19/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
19 Aug

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

— DeSantis Pushes Probe into Ex-UF President Sasse's $17.3M Spending Spree

— Blind Owl Charlie Missing After Storm, Tampa Bay Residents Urged to Help

— Bay Area Boy Lands Coveted Role as Young Simba on Broadway

Sports

— New NFL Kickoff Rule Promises Thrills but Brings Early Confusion

OMG!

— TikTok Video Reveals Disgusting Accident on Six Flags Ride


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DeSantis Pushes Probe into Ex-UF President Sasse's $17.3M Spending Spree

Governor Ron DeSantis and other Florida Republicans are pressing for an investigation into the spending of former University of Florida President Ben Sasse, following reports that he spent $17.3 million in his first year, including on consulting contracts and remote positions for GOP allies. While Sasse defended the expenditures as necessary for university initiatives, the situation has drawn criticism from political figures, including U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz.

Blind Owl Charlie Missing After Storm, Tampa Bay Residents Urged to Help

A Great Horned Owl named Charlie is missing in the Tampa Bay area after being displaced during Tropical Storm Debby. The Raptor Center of Tampa Bay has been searching for Charlie, who is believed to be in the Brandon area.

Charlie has been with the center since he was six weeks old and is blind in one eye, making him unable to hunt. He was wearing anklets and falconry gear when he disappeared.

While there are signs he is still alive, the center is concerned about his dwindling energy reserves. Anyone who spots Charlie is urged to contact the Raptor Center immediately at 813-205-1851.

Read More: wfla.com <— check out photos of the great horned owl

Bay Area Boy Lands Coveted Role as Young Simba on Broadway

12-year-old Bay Area resident Jacob Pham is set to star as Young Simba in "The Lion King" musical on Broadway.

After seeing the show two years ago, Jacob was determined to land the role, succeeding after three auditions. Known for his maturity and strong work ethic, 

Jacob has already built a promising acting career and will perform at the Minskoff Theater from August 20 until February next year.

Read More: baynews9.com — great article on this talented young man

New NFL Kickoff Rule Promises Thrills but Brings Early Confusion

The NFL's new kickoff rule, introduced this preseason, is designed to increase returns and reduce high-speed collisions. 

Under the new rule, kickoffs start at the 35-yard line, with kick coverage players lined up at the opponent's 40-yard line. The return team positions at least nine blockers between the 30- and 35-yard lines. Only the kicker and two returners can move until the ball is touched or hits the ground inside the 20-yard line.

If the ball lands short of the 20-yard line or goes out of bounds, the receiving team starts at their 40-yard line. Early preseason games saw an 81% return rate, up from 65% last year, showing the rule's impact. Although some confusion and penalties have occurred, the rule has already led to exciting plays, suggesting it could add more action to the upcoming regular season.

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TikTok Video Reveals Disgusting Accident on Six Flags Ride

A guest suffered an embarrassing accident on the X Flight roller coaster at Six Flags Great America, causing a stir online. The incident was captured in a TikTok video by user @maniachkaa_666, showing a park employee hosing down a seat after the guest reportedly relieved themselves during the high-speed ride.

The video quickly went viral, with many viewers expressing disgust and vowing to avoid the ride. Others empathized with the guest, acknowledging the embarrassment they must have felt. However, concerns were raised about the park’s cleaning protocols, as some were shocked that guests were still waiting to use the seat after only a quick rinse.

A user familiar with the park's procedures explained that the cleaning process involves more than just water, including disinfectant and air-drying cycles. Despite these reassurances, the incident has sparked ongoing discussions about cleanliness at theme parks.

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