Business News: Python Purses, FPL’s World’s Largest Battery

TAMPA BAY, FL — Here's the latest restaurant, retail and other business news from the Tampa Bay region.

Allegiant To Fly Non-Stop From Clearwater To Key West

Allegiant announced a new nonstop route to Key West from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport starting Nov. 19.

World's Largest Solar-Powered Battery Being Built In Parrish

Crews recently installed the first battery modules for Florida Power and Light Company's Manatee Energy Storage Center in Parrish. This center will be the world's largest solar-powered battery storage facility when completed, FPL said in a news release.

Also Read: Tampa International Airport To Add New Airline, Nonstop Trip To New Haven

Hillsborough Commission Deals Blow To Late-Night Hookah Lounges

People are doing a lot more than puffing on pipes at Hillsborough County hookah lounges. Hillsborough sheriff's Chief Deputy Donna Lusczynski told Hillsborough County commissioners Wednesday that the lounges, which are open all night, have become a magnet for criminal activity.

Python Huntress, Fashion Brand Forge Unlikely Partnership

Growing up in Indiana, Amy Siewe found herself drawn to everything creepy and crawly. "I've been into snakes and reptiles my whole life. I've had this crazy fascination since my dad took me to a creek and taught me to catch crawdads and fish and snakes," she said.

Also Read: Cool Zoo Brings Animal Encounters To Tampa Home & Garden Show

2-Alarm Fire Destroys Tampa Mattress Store

Tampa Fire Rescue units responded to a two-alarm fire at Tampa Mattress, 4911 E. Broadway.