Flamingo’s Death, Brooke Bennett, Zika Travel Advisory

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

Florida Zika Travel Warning Could Last a Year, CDC Chief Says

As the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's director issued a potential blow to south Florida tourism Wednesday, Gov. Rick Scott aired his grievances about the federal government’s lack of action to help fight the Zika virus. Congress adjourned for its summer break in mid-July without approving a $1.1 billion funding package that would have helped combat the virus’ spread.

Details Emerge in Dancing Flamingo's Death at Busch Gardens

A 45-year-old Orlando man faces felony animal cruelty charges after Tampa Police say he grabbed Pinky, Busch Gardens' dancing flamingo, and threw her to the ground. The flamingo suffered serious injuries and had to be euthanized by park officials, police say.

President Obama Shortens Sentences for 7 Tampa Bay Residents

President Barack Obama announced his decision to shorten the sentences of 214 federal prisoners on Wednesday, the most commutations granted in a single day since at least 1900. The action affected seven Tampa Bay area residents who will now be released from jail before their sentences were set to end.

18 Arrested in Underage Sex Sting

Eighteen people face a long list of criminal charges after the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office completed a multi-day underage sex investigation. The agency says two more arrests are pending in the case.

New Port Richey Woman Celebrates 100 Years

It’s not every day that a person gets to celebrate 100 years of living. That’s why Margaret Sebald’s family and friends are pulling out all the stops to mark her milestone.

Olympic Gold Medalist Brooke Bennett Teaching Kids to Swim

Clearwater area kids who need to learn how to swim are being invited to dive into lessons led by three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Brooke Bennett. The swimming champ has signed on to lead an upcoming series of low-cost classes meant to help prevent drowning deaths.

Panhandling Complaints Lead to Gun, Drug Arrest

Brandon residents’ complaints about panhandlers getting in the way of traffic in the area of Gornto Lake Road and Causeway Boulevard led to the arrest of a wanted felon on a long list of charges Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens