Herpes, Animal Rights Protests, Deputy's Disney Crash

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:

Florida Chick-Fil-A Invaded By Animal Rights Activists

As Chick-fil-A fans across the country cashed in on the chain’s Cow Appreciation Day freebies Tuesday, a group of animal rights activists in Pinellas Park seized the opportunity to take a stand. Wearing blood-covered animal costumes and brandishing butcher knives, the activists staged their protest in the middle of the restaurant.

Hillsborough Deputy's Disney Crash Led To DUI Arrest: Troopers

An off-duty sergeant with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office faces a DUI charge after a Tuesday crash at the Walt Disney World Resort. Florida Highway Patrol troopers say the crash involved a pedestrian bridge, two open bottles of Fireball whisky and a law enforcement officer who claimed to not understand Miranda rights.

Herpes: Florida’s Most Googled Health Problem, Study Says

While asthma, diabetes and obesity are big concerns in many states across the country, people in Florida turn to “Dr. Google” most frequently to find out about herpes. That’s according to a recent analysis of Google Trends data that sought to uncover the most commonly searched up health problems by state.

Palma Ceia Tudor Has Head-Turning Style

Tampa Bay area house hunters looking for a property that boasts jaw-dropping features inside and out might find this Palma Ceia Tudor to their liking. From its distinct façade and spiral staircase to its gourmet kitchen, the home was built to impress.

Daughter Arrested After Mom Stabbed

A 26-year-old Pinellas Park woman faces attempted first-degree murder charges after her mother was stabbed in the chest early Wednesday morning.

Snooty’s 69th Birthday Bash: What You Need To Know

Snooty, the world-record-breaking manatee, turns 69 on July 21 and folks throughout the Tampa Bay area are invited to help him celebrate. Snooty’s big 69th birthday bash is set to take place at the South Florida Museum on Saturday, July 22.

New Dolphin Baby Swimming In Sarasota Bay

There’s a new baby dolphin swimming in Sarasota Bay, according to the folks at Mote Marine Laboratory. “Ginger,” a bottlenose dolphin rehabilitated at and later released by Mote, was spotted recently with a baby swimming by her side.

Man Lived It Up On Elderly Victim’s Fortune: Deputies

A 45-year-old Palm Harbor man stands accused of bilking an elderly man out of more than $417,000 and then using the proceeds to live the high life. Deputies say Peter Anthony Maselli used the money to buy two new vehicles, pay off debt, remodel his home and go on a cruise.

Photo of Snooty courtesy of the South Florida Museum