Regional

Health care gets pass on ‘passports’

TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis pushed to block businesses from requiring customers to show proof of covid-19 vaccinations, but legislation he recently signed included a carve-out for the health-care industry.

Gambling deal teed up for final approval

TALLAHASSEE — With legal battles looming over the expansion of gambling in Florida, lawmakers are poised to pass a sweeping deal that would give the Seminole Tribe control of sports betting throughout the state in exchange for a promise of at least $2.

Florida tourism improves but still struggles to get back to par

TALLAHASSEE — Florida’s tourism industry saw improvement during the first three months of 2021, but the number of visitors was still down 14% from a year earlier as the state continued to grapple with the covid-19 pandemic.

Duke seeks to recoup storm costs

Duke Energy Florida is seeking approval from state regulators to recoup money it spent responding to two tropical storms last year.  Duke on Friday filed a petition at the Florida Public Service Commission seeking to collect $16.7 million from customers, starting in August.

Rum 138 screening springs documentary

FORT WHITE — A documentary film about the plight of Florida’s springs will screen outdoors Saturday for its first North Florida showing. “The Fellowship of the Springs,” directed by Oscar Corral, an Emmy award-winner, details the fight to preserve the state’s 1,000-plus artesian springs.

Vacant soccer complex pitched for development

LIVE OAK — Suwannee County’s vacant soccer complex may soon see activity. The Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners will consider an economic development project for the property at its meeting Tuesday, which is set for 5 p.m. at the Judicial Annex, 218 Parshley St. SW.

FSU eyes presidential candidates

TALLAHASSEE — As Florida State University seeks a successor to retiring President John Thrasher, a committee Friday started interviewing nine finalists for the job --- as questions swirled about a potential conflict of interest for one high-profile candidate and as a student campaign emerged for...

Gambling bills emerge for special session

TALLAHASSEE — With lawmakers preparing to gather Monday to start a special session, the Senate and House on Friday released bills that would overhaul Florida’s gambling industry, including joining other states in allowing sports betting.

Charter violations lead to workshop

LIVE OAK — Possible city ordinance violations by a former city administrator has led to the scheduling of a workshop about the Live Oak city charter.

CDC: Vaccinated can largely ditch masks

WASHINGTON — In a major step toward returning to pre-pandemic life, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eased mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people on Thursday, allowing them to stop wearing masks outdoors in crowds and in most indoor settings.