Hidden Hazards. From scientists tracing “forever chemicals” to researchers uncovering bacteria in stranded whales in Florida, these discoveries reveal how much can be hiding beneath the surface. While one points to pollution that may linger for generations, the other shows how nature can still surprise us in unsettling ways.
Quick Summary
In this 606th edition, for local & state:
Health: Forever Chemicals Linked to Tallahassee Wastewater
Research: Novel Bacteria in Stranded Florida Whales
Featured: College Cleaning Crew | Training That Makes the Difference
Tech Events
HEALTH
FOREVER CHEMICALS

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💧 Researchers Urge Study on Local Water Contamination | WCTV via YT
A group of scientists warns that Tallahassee’s wastewater spray field may be contaminating groundwater with PFAS, also called “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to cancer and thyroid problems.
Tests show that one city well and several private wells in the Woodville area have reportedly tested positive for PFAS. 🦠
Researchers are urging the city to fund a comprehensive environmental study—potentially costing hundreds of thousands of dollars—and to increase monitoring by doctors and health officials to track any health impacts on residents.
In response, the City of Tallahassee says nearly all tested wells were below reporting thresholds in 2024 and that it is taking steps to meet current and future drinking water standards. 🫗
RESEARCH
NOVEL BACTERIAS

Image Source: FAU
🦠 New Bacteria Discovered in Florida’s Stranded Pygmy Sperm Whales | FAU
Researchers analyzing over 20 years of stranded pygmy sperm whales in Florida identified three previously unknown types of Helicobacter bacteria in the whales’ stomachs, now named Kogia Helicobacter 1, 2, and 3.
These spiral-shaped bacteria were linked to stomach inflammation, ulcers, and other gastrointestinal damage, though they were not confirmed as the cause of death. 💀
Kogia Helicobacter 1 and 2 are similar to bacteria found in other marine mammals and humans, while Kogia Helicobacter 3 represents a completely new lineage.
Most knowledge about pygmy sperm whales comes from stranded individuals, as these deep-diving whales are rarely seen alive in the wild. 🌊
The study highlights the importance of long-term marine mammal stranding programs and raises questions about how unknown microbes may affect ocean wildlife health.
FEATURED

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College Cleaning Crew | Training That Makes the Difference
Every College Cleaning Crew member undergoes hands-on training in cleaning techniques, safety, and customer service. This ensures every job meets their high standards—so clients can relax knowing their space is in capable hands.
Schedule your cleaning today and experience the College Cleaning Crew difference! 📧 [email protected] | 📞 (850) 329-5734 | 🔔 FB and LI
STEM EVENTS

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Thursday to Saturday, Apr. 9 to 11
Florida Quantum Conference 2026 | Thursday to Saturday, Apr. 9 to 11 | 1 PM | Kroto Auditorium (Room 1001), 1021 Spirit Way | Learn More
Saturday, Apr. 11
SCIturday: All About Earth by Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee | Saturday, Apr. 11 | 10 AM | 200 S. Duval St. | Free | Learn More
Wednesday, Apr. 15
X-Tool F2 Ultra Intro Class by Making Awesome | 2818 Industrial Plaza Dr. | $28.52 Tickets
Wednesday, Apr. 15 | 6 PM
Sunday, Apr. 19 | 10 AM
Tally Devs Meetup | Wednesday, Apr. 15 | 6 PM | Momo's Pizza, 1641 W. Pensacola St. | Free | Learn More
Wednesday to Saturday, Apr. 15 to 18
Featured Event: Tallahassee Regional Robotics Competition | Wednesday to Saturday, Apr. 15 to 18 | 6 PM (Wed.), 8 AM (Thurs. to Sat.) | Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center, FAMU, 1800 Althea Gibson Way | Learn More | Sponsorship
Thursday to Friday, Apr. 16 to 17
FAMU SA+ET 18th Annual Alumni Industry Day "Tech Frontiers" | Thursday to Friday, Apr. 16 to 17 | 8 AM | 1938 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | Students: Free, Alumni/Guest: $55.20 Tickets
Saturday, May 9
SCIturday: Geology by Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee | Saturday, May 9 | 10 AM | 200 S. Duval St. | Free | Learn More
Tuesday, June 16
2026 AI Innovations Summit at Tallahassee State College | Tuesday, June 16 | 12 PM | 444 Appleyard Dr., Workforce Development Ballroom | $86.39 Tickets
STAY TUNED

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No livestream this week — but don’t worry! You can watch our most recent session on YouTube, powered by JH Creative. Stay tuned for the next episode. Join us Live!
- Team CityClips ([email protected])
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