Sexiest Vegan, Homemade Helicopter, Pier Closes After Irma

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

Seawater Bacteria Death Linked To Open Wound

A Lee County resident whose Vibrio vulnificus-related death was reported by state officials late last week died following exposure to the seawater bacteria through an open wound. The Florida Department of Health on Tuesday confirmed the source of the person’s infection.

Free McDonald’s For First Responders

McDonald’s locations across the Tampa Bay region are rolling out the red carpet in honor of First Responders Appreciation Day. Licensed first responders who stop by any of the region’s 207 McDonald’s locations Wednesday will receive an Extra Value Meal on the house.

Body Found Near Railroad Tracks: ID Released

The St. Petersburg Police Department has released the identity of the woman whose body was found near railroad tracks behind a vacant building on 38th Avenue North last week.

Pilot Injured After ‘Homemade’ Helicopter Crashes Into House

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has released more details related to a Monday night helicopter-versus-house crash.

‘Sexiest Vegan Over 50:’ USF Professor In The Running

A University of South Florida professor with a passion for Muay Thai fighting and a love for animals is vying to earn PETA’s “Sexiest Vegan Over 50” title.

Unstoppable Views Set Belleair Beauty Apart

House hunters with a passion for waterfront views and instant boating access may find this Belleair beauty hard to pass by. Positioned to take in views over Clearwater Harbor, Sand Key and beyond, the sprawling estate spans more than 5,700 square feet.

Anna Maria City Pier Closed For 12 Months To Repair Irma Damage

Hurricane Irma left behind extensive damage to the Anna Maria City Pier, a tourist attraction that will remain closed for 12 months until repairs are made, Mayor Dan Murphy said. The 678-foot pier suffered wind and water damage. The restaurant on the pier suffered damage as the storm ripped off a portion of its tin roof. The tin roof of the pier’s bait shop also was torn off.

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