Death Star at Epcot, Port Sutton Fire, Florida Drivers

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in Tampa Bay and surrounding counties. The following are some of the top headlines from the past day:

Videos: Port Sutton Fire Upgraded to 2 Alarm

A large scrap metal fire in Tampa’s port area sent a column of smoke billowing into the Friday night sky. The blaze broke out at the Port Sutton Road Trademark Metals facility in time for rush-hour traffic.

St. Pete Faces $820,000 Fine for Sewage Spills

St. Petersburg faces an $820,000 fine from the state after after ongoing issues with its sewage system led to the spillage of more than 200 million gallons of wastewater over the last 13 months.

Red Tide Fish Kills, Respiratory Irritation Reported in Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay area residents and visitors with big beach plans over the weekend might want to check on local conditions before heading out. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports that a persistent red tide bloom in the region is continuing to cause problems.

Epcot’s Spaceship Earth To Transform Into Death Star Live Online

Star Wars fans who want to see the Death Star materialize right before their eyes will get their chance Monday. That’s when Disney plans to go to the dark side in celebration of its impending release of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.”

‘Armed, Dangerous’ Land O’ Lakes Man Sought by Deputies

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help locating a Land O’ Lakes man its deputies say should be considered “armed and dangerous.”

Toy Grenade Prompted St. Petersburg Scare

The St. Petersburg Police Department has given an all-clear following a Friday morning scare about a possible grenade found on a stretch of private beach.

What? Study Says Florida Drivers Are 2nd Best in the Country

While anyone who has ever driven Interstate 4 during rush hour might beg to differ, a new study has concluded that Florida motorists are among the best in the country. The Sunshine State, in fact, ranked No. 49th overall, just behind Rhode Island, in the worst-to-best analysis.

Troopers Double as Santa’s Helpers: Donations Needed

It’s no secret that the holidays are a busy time for Florida Highway Patrol troopers. After all, with all the festivities and seasonal cheer, keeping Tampa Bay area roads safe for motorists is serious business.

Dense Fog Warning in Tampa Bay’s Weekend Forecast

Be sure to keep those T-shirts and shorts handy. A bright, sunny weekend with comfortable temperatures is on tap for the Tampa Bay area. Forecasters at the National Weather Service, however, warn that the forecast isn’t entirely perfect for the days ahead.

Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue