* According to a report from Strategic Property Partners, the Water Street developer, Water Street generates $520 million in annual economic output, while adding nearly 6,000 permanent jobs.
* Free State update: The latest data indicate that Hillsborough County had the second-most book titles pulled from library shelves in any U.S. school district. The banned list counted more than 600 titles removed from district libraries. Overall, Florida ranked first among all states for the third straight year.
* DEI update: Tampa City Council has officially disbanded the Racial Reconciliation Committee, because it’s likely at odds with federal efforts to dismantle programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion for minorities. “We live in very, very shameful times,” underscored City Council member Luis Viera.
* I caught AG Pam Bondi’s strident, stonewalling appearance in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee. It was as embarrassing as it was infuriating. J. Edgar Hoover never looked so amiable and honest. Bondi, of course, looks even worse when parodied on SNL.