Zika In Pinellas, Fake $100s, Cobra's Curse Sneak Peek

Thrill ride lovers eager to check out Busch Gardens’ new spin coaster, Cobra’s Curse, will soon get their chance. Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens

Patch operates 23 daily news sites in Florida. The following are some of the top stories from the past week:

Zika Virus Confirmed In Pinellas County

The Florida Department of Health confirmed two new travel-related Zika virus cases on Monday. One of those cases is a first for Pinellas County.

Marco Rubio Not Interested In Being Donald Trump’s VP

Much like Florida Gov. Rick Scott, Sen. Marco Rubio wishes Donald Trump well in his bid for the presidency as the Republican Party’s presumptive nominee. And, just like Scott, he’s not interested in serving as Trump’s running mate.

Restaurant Inspections: 31 Roaches, Rodent Burrow, Bare Hands

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ordered emergency closures at five area eateries last week when conditions inside didn’t meet state guidelines for health and safety.

Fake $100 Bills Circulating In Sarasota

Folks who live in or pass through the Sarasota area might want to take a closer look at their cash. If $100 bills are in their wallets, there’s a chance the currency just might be fake.

Tampa Road Rage Shooting: Video Released

The Tampa Police Department is asking for help identifying the driver of on SUV involved in a probable road rage shooting on the Howard Frankland Bridge Monday night.

Humane Society Blasts Publix Over Caged Hens, Publix Fires Back

Lakeland-based Publix Super Markets is under fire from the Humane Society of the United States for its continued sale of eggs that come from caged hens. The animal rights advocacy group says Publix is the country’s sixth-largest grocery chain and the only one among the Top 25 without a “cage-free transition policy.”

Cobra’s Curse Sneak Peek Video Released

Thrill ride lovers will soon have a new challenge to tackle. Busch Gardens is almost ready to open Cobra’s Curse.

Smash-And-Grab Burglaries Rise In St. Pete

The St. Petersburg Police Department is warning motorists to keep their valuables out of sight as smash-and-grab burglary reports rise.

Listeria Warning: Frozen Meat, Chicken With Vegetables Recalled

The Listeria recall has expanded to 47 million pounds of meat and poultry products with vegetables sold in Florida and across the nation.

Frontier Communications Unveils Florida Action Plan

Tampa Bay area consumers who have experienced issues since Frontier Communications took over Verizon’s television, telephone and internet services in the region on April 1 might soon see a light at the end of the tunnel.