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Known for stealing Nancy Pelosi's lectern, Adam Johnson sues Manatee County
FROM THE SARASOTA HERALD-TRIBUNE: Adam Johnson, infamous for stealing Nancy Pelosi's lectern during the Capitol riot, is suing Manatee County and six commissioners for failing to collect $256,807.50 in attorney's fees from Bradenton Times Publisher Joe McClash, following a lawsuit McClash filed over local wetlands policy. Johnson claims the county commissioners "corruptly" voted to benefit McClash after the 2024 elections, not recovering the fees after McClash dropped his lawsuit. Johnson argues the county is entitled to these fees under a 2023 Florida law designed to reduce frivolous lawsuits, accusing the commissioners of political payback at taxpayers' expense.
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Ryals Citrus, Cattle Ranch preserved for agricultural use
FROM THE DAILY SUN: More than 3,700 acres of the Ryals Citrus and Cattle Ranch in Charlotte County, bordering DeSoto County, have been permanently protected under Florida's Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The Ryals family, with assistance from the Nokomis-based Florida Conservation Group, worked with state and federal programs to protect the land, which had been facing pressure from developers. The move ensures the preservation of critical water quality, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience in the region.
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USF, University of Tampa are under federal investigation over claims of antisemitic harassment
FROM WUSF: The U.S. Department of Education is investigating both the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Tampa for possible violations of federal law regarding antisemitic harassment. The investigation follows complaints from students who claim they faced harassment related to their Jewish identity, particularly around certain campus events and actions. Both universities have received notices of investigation, and federal authorities are examining whether the institutions responded adequately to prevent harassment, as required under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The schools are cooperating with the investigation.
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USF is deleting webpages with DEI content
FROM THE ORACLE: The University of South Florida (USF) has begun removing webpages, news articles, PDF documents, and internal audits related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from its website. This action aligns with USF's efforts to comply with recent state legislation, specifically Senate Bill 266, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023, which prohibits universities from allocating federal or state funds to initiatives deemed discriminatory, including certain DEI efforts. The removed content encompassed DEI awards previously received by USF, anti-racism documents, departmental appointments, discussions on structural racism, and initiatives promoting diversity in graduate courses. Notably, departments such as psychology, history, and English had their DEI commitment statements and programs taken down.
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Massive Sarasota condo project faces opposition
FROM WSLR: The proposed Adagio condo project in downtown Sarasota, which includes two towers – one reaching 18 stories – has sparked public opposition. The project, submitted by a group of developers, is facing criticism due to its height and density, which exceed current zoning limits. Using Florida's Live Local Act, the developers argue the project meets affordable housing needs, but critics contend it may bypass local building codes and zoning regulations. The development would replace existing structures on a prime downtown site, and the proposed towers include both luxury condos and rental units deemed "attainable."
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