Signs of spring – balmy weather, blooming flowers and nesting birds – are occurring throughout Florida.

(The Center Square) — With the session only a few days old, the Florida Senate passed a bipartisan bill to address the issue of affordable housing

Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, held a news conference Thursday to talk about the "Live Local" affordable housing bill, joined by state Sen. Alexis Calatayud, R-Miami.

"It feels amazing to be part of bringing to the Florida Legislature, one of the most transformative housing packages in the country." Calatayud said.

Nesting season has started for both sea turtles and waterbirds in the Sunshine State. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds people they can help protect vulnerable nesting sea turtles and waterbirds this spring and summer while visiting Florida’s coastal habitats.

Because our state’s shorelines are critical for sea turtle and waterbird nesting, beachgoers can have a big impact on their nesting success. To help nesting sea turtles and waterbirds, give them space, minimize disturbances, and keep beaches clean and dark.

By: American Hotel Association (AHLA)

Survey: 79% of hotels report staffing shortages

WASHINGTON (Feb. 27, 2023) – As nearly 80% of hotels experience staffing shortages, hoteliers are offering potential hires a host of incentives to fill vacancies, according to a new survey of hoteliers conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to monitor bird mortalities suspected to be attributed to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza throughout Florida. This strain has been documented in the United States since 2021 and was detected for the first time in Florida in January 2022. 

Please be on the look out for missing elderly male Wayne Brown.

He was last seen at 10 a.m. on Monday in the area of South Suncoast Boulevard and West Green Acres street in Homosassa.

His vehicle was located in the area of Hog Pond Trails in Homosassa.