SUMMARY: Rodents chewing through vehicle engines are causing expensive repairs nationwide. Christine Moss’s 2023 Ford F-150 suffered severe wiring damage, costing over $6,000 in repairs. Despite her warranty, rodent damage isn’t covered, leading to insurance disputes and a $1,000 deductible. Many new cars use soy-based wiring, which, while eco-friendly, may attract rodents. Class-action lawsuits against Toyota and Honda were dismissed due to lack of proof that soy wiring attracts pests. Experts say rodents also damage plastics and insulation under hoods, especially on cars parked outside long-term. Owners are advised to regularly check vehicles and consult insurance for coverage options.

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SUMMARY: Florida wildlife officials are poised to vote on allowing black bear hunting for the first time in a decade, with a regulated season proposed to start December 2025. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission aims to manage the growing bear population, estimated at 3,800, through controlled hunts in designated zones with permit limits. The 23-day season would permit hunting with dogs and near feeding stations. The proposal has sparked fierce debate: supporters cite rising human-bear conflicts, while opponents argue habitat loss and unsecured trash cause issues, condemning the hunt as unnecessary and cruel. A lawsuit to block the hunt is expected.

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The post Florida wildlife officials to decide Wednesday on controversial bear hunt appeared first on www.abcactionnews.com

SUMMARY: Over 115 years ago, Jacksonville’s San Marco neighborhood hosted Dixieland Park, once dubbed “Florida’s Playground.” Opening in 1907 on 21 acres, it featured a skating rink, swimming pool, restaurants, a theater, and attractions like the Dixie Dewdrop slide and a merry-go-round. Visitors arrived by ferry across the St. Johns River, dressed in early 20th-century fashion. Despite its initial popularity and a baseball park hosting spring training, the park declined after hailstorms and fires, closing by 1909. The only remnant today is Treaty Oak. In the 1960s, Jacksonville missed hosting Disney World after local tycoon Ed Ball rejected Walt Disney’s proposal.

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The post ‘Florida’s Playground,’ an amusement park, once stood in San Marco over 100 years ago. Now, only one piece of it remains appeared first on www.news4jax.com