The nationwide debate over gun control has local business owners running short on ammo. Many say even gun shows appear to be charging triple the cost. The result is many are stocking up since there doesn’t seem to be an end to the debate.

The red tide bloom is threatening manatees in growing numbers. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission says this one of the deadliest they’ve ever seen, causing the deaths of 39 manatees in just four days this past week. At this rate, they expect to set a new annual record.

The owners of Plant City’s Red Rose Inn filed for bankruptcy last week, but Evelyn and Batista Madonia say they’ll pay back every penny owed. They said they’ve filed for protection so they can have time to rebuild and replant. The Red Rose closed last year, but the Madonia’s multimillion dollar farming empire is still here in Florida and other states.

The search for a new pope is underway in Vatican City, with tight security around the Sistine Chapel. They’ve set up a hospital tent on site for the thousands of visitors – just in case – and additional security is expected once the white smoke is seen signaling the selection of the new pope.

The memorial service for Fred Karl has grown to the point they’ve decided to move it to the Tampa Convention Center according to The Times. It originally was scheduled for the building that has his name on it, but instead will be this Friday at 2 pm at the Convention Center.

The Florida Strawberry Festival wrapped this weekend…now on to the Florida Blueberry Festival in Hernando County. The host city of Brooksville has decided to kick in $25,000 for festival costs for the event May 4-5^th.