MIAMI (WSVN) – Authorities seek the public’s help in their search for a 16-year-old girl who was reported missing from Miami.
Nicole Rodriguez was last seen on Saturday, Sept. 13 around 4:15 a.m. along the 8700 Block of Northwest 149th Terrace in Miami.
Rodriguez stands 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs around 200 pounds. She has brown eyes and red hair.
The teen was last seen wearing a black crop top and black sweatpants.
Anyone with information on Rodriguez should contact Deputy M. Ritch Jr. at 305-715-3300 (Office), 305-715-3257 (Desk), email u308129@mdso.com or Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).
Copyright 2025 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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A federal prosecutor wants to present evidence that a South Florida nursing school operator sold a fake degree to a student who was later implicated in a patient’s death.
CORAL GABLES, FLA. (WSVN) – Over 3,500 fans showed up before the sun to the University of Miami’s Lakeside Patio where College GameDay will broadcast live from University of Miami’s campus.
Fourth ranked Miami Hurricanes welcome the University of Florida to Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday night, but the hype on Saturday morning drew crowds to Coral Gables.
“I grew up watching College GameDay, and to actually see it in real life, at my school, is so exciting,” said UM student Cassidy Golden.
Fans swarmed in droves for the event wearing green and orange, creating signs with cartoons depicting the mascots of the two universities fighting, with Sebastian the Ibis of UM coming out on top.
UM also received a Friday night feature on SportsCenter, Pat McAfee interviewed ‘Canes coach Mario Cristobal from the top of the Shalala Student Center.
The event even hosts a kicking contest, participants vying for a chance to win a grand cash prize.
“There’s only three things guaranteed in life, death, taxes, and the fact that I kick that field goal through the uprights come this Saturday,” said a student.
Students express their confidence in their university’s depth on the field.
“We’re gonna win of course,” said UM student Ana Mendez. “One hundred percent guarantee, UF is like our rival school, we can’t stand them.”
The game has fans buzzing with excitement.
“Just, like, insane energy, like, school spirit, like, everything, it’s amazing,” said UM student Paris Rahbarian.
The buzz affects more than just students, with media traveling for the anticipated showdown feeling the Hurricanes’ energy.
“We’re going to have a party here, we’re going to talk ball and it’s going to be some hardcore X’s and O’s, but we’re gonna have fun,” said College GameDay’s Rece Davis.
College GameDay will go live from UM on Saturday at 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The game will be nationally televised on ABC 18 at 7:30 p.m.
Copyright 2025 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack targeting regions across Ukraine early Saturday, killing at least three people and wounding dozens more, Ukrainian officials said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a statement on his official Telegram that attacks took place across nine regions, including Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, Poltava, Kyiv, Odesa, Sumy and Kharkiv.
“The enemy’s target was our infrastructure, residential areas and civilian enterprises,” he said, adding that a missile equipped with cluster munitions struck a multi-story building in the city of Dnipro.
In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Services on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, a rescue worker puts out a fire of a residential house damaged by a Russian strike on Dnipro, Ukraine.
Ukrainian Emergency Service via AP
“Each such strike is not a military necessity but a deliberate strategy by Russia to intimidate civilians and destroy our infrastructure,” he said.
At least 30 people were wounded in the attack in Ukraine’s central Dnipropetrovsk region, local governor Serhii Lysak said. Several high-rise buildings and homes were damaged in the eastern city of Dnipro.
In the Kyiv region, local authorities said there were strikes in the areas of Bucha, Boryspil and Obukhiv. A home and cars were damaged. In the western region of Lviv, Gov. Maxim Kozytsky said two cruise missiles were shot down.
Russia launched 619 drones and missiles, Ukraine’s Air Force said in a statement. In total, 579 drones, eight ballistic missiles and 32 cruise missiles were detected. Ukrainian forces shot down and neutralized 552 drones, two ballistic missiles and 29 cruise missiles.
In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Services on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, rescue workers put out a fire of a residential house damaged by a Russian strike on Dnipro, Ukraine.
Ukrainian Emergency Service via AP
“During the air strike, tactical aviation, in particular F-16 fighters, effectively worked on the enemy’s cruise missiles. Western weapons once again prove their effectiveness on the battlefield,” the Air Force said in a statement.
Russia denies violating Estonia’s airspace
Russia’s Defense Ministry denied its aircraft violated Estonia’s airspace, after Tallinn reported three fighter jets crossed into its territory on Friday without permission and remained there for 12 minutes.
The incident, described by Estonia’s top diplomat as an “unprecedentedly brazen” incursion, happened just over a week after NATO planes downed Russian drones over Poland, heightening fears that Moscow’s war on Ukraine could spill over.
In an online statement published early Saturday, Moscow stressed its fighter jets had kept to neutral Baltic Sea waters more than 1.8 miles from Estonia’s Vaindloo Island in the Gulf of Finland.
“On September 19, three MiG-31 fighter jets completed a scheduled flight from Karelia to an airfield in the Kaliningrad region,” it said, referencing the Russian enclave sandwiched between Polish and Lithuanian territory.
“The flight was conducted in strict compliance with international airspace regulations and did not violate the borders of other states, as confirmed through objective monitoring,” the statement said without providing details about the monitoring operation.
On Friday, Estonian officials said Tallinn had summoned a Russian diplomat to protest, and also moved “to start consultations among the allies” under NATO’s Article 4, which states that parties would confer whenever the territorial integrity, political independence or security is threatened.
Zelenskyy hopes to finalize security guarantees in New York meetings
Zelenskyy said that Ukraine and its partners have laid the groundwork for long-term security guarantees and that he hopes to gauge how close they are to finalizing such commitments during meetings at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week.
He said European nations are prepared to move forward with a framework if the United States remains closely engaged. He noted that discussions have taken place at multiple levels, including among military leadership and general staffs from both Europe and the U.S.
“I would like to receive signals for myself on how close we are to understanding that the security guarantees from all partners will be the kind we need,” Zelenskyy said.
The United Nations headquarters on September 9, 2025, in New York City.
Spencer Platt / Getty Images
Zelenskyy said he expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly next week. He also said the first ladies of Ukraine and the United States would likely hold separate talks focused on humanitarian issues involving children. His comments, which he made on Friday, were embargoed until Saturday morning.
Zelenskyy said sanctions against Russia must remain on the table if peace efforts stall, and that he plans to press the issue in talks with Trump.
“If the war continues and there is no movement toward peace, we expect sanctions,” he said, adding that Trump is looking for strong steps from Europe.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The House overwhelmingly passed a resolution honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Friday, but a significant number of Democrats voted against it, highlighting the deepening political divide in the wake of his assassination.
The resolution, which praised “the life and legacy” of Kirk, passed the Republican-controlled House with 310 votes in favor. While 95 Democrats supported the resolution, 58 voted against it and 38 voted “present,” effectively abstaining. Republicans had warned ahead of the vote that no one should oppose the measure, but many Democrats said they felt Kirk’s death had been politicized and the resolution elevated views they disagreed with.
“Today’s resolution underscores the majority’s recklessness by choosing to author this condemnation and honoring on a purely partisan basis,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, a high-profile Democrat who voted against the resolution. “We should be clear about who Charlie Kirk was.”
Speaker Mike Johnson said there was “no partisan language” in the resolution and there was “no excuse” for anyone not to vote in favor of it.
“We are honoring someone who contributed greatly to the free marketplace of ideas and public discourse and who died in a disgraceful, horrific manner,” Johnson told reporters.
The vote capped a week of heightened tensions in Congress and across a nation grappling with Kirk’s assassination and the legacy he left behind. Many on the right have blamed the left for fostering a political climate that led to his death, pushing for more than condemnation and allowing little room for criticism of his views. In the days since, backlash to such criticism has led to firings — ranging from teachers to journalists — as conservative activists have launched aggressive pressure campaigns.
“No single member of the House Democratic caucus, not a single member, condones political violence in America,” House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Friday.
Still, Democrats who voted against the measure were heavily criticized.
“Who could vote against that?” President Donald Trump said Friday afternoon about the resolution.
Earlier this week, the House narrowly declined to punish one of its own over commentary in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The Republican effort to censure Rep. Ilhan Omar came after she criticized Kirk’s views of gun ownership and race relations in the aftermath of George Floyd’s 2020 death in Minneapolis. After the vote fell short, Trump responded by calling Omar “terrible.”
While Friday’s resolution aimed to honor Kirk and denounce political violence, many Democrats took issue with its language. The text described Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, as someone who was “seeking to elevate truth, foster understanding, and strengthen the Republic,” and that he stood “as a model for young Americans.”
The resolution sparked intense internal debate among Democrats. While party leadership ultimately backed it, they did not push members to vote a certain way. Some lawmakers saw it as a political trap designed to force them into endorsing Kirk’s views.
“This Republican resolution was designed as a political ‘gotcha’ — trying to force every member of Congress to lift up the views of Charlie Kirk rather than simply condemning his assassination,” said Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal in a statement. “I cannot do that.”
Democratic Rep. Debbie Dingell of Michigan, who was among a few in the party to attend a vigil honoring Kirk at the Capitol earlier this week, said she supported the resolution “because his horrific killing, and this volatile time require all of us to reject violence, hate, and anger without hesitation.”
Many Republicans in Congress are set to travel to Arizona on Sunday for Kirk’s funeral. Johnson, who plans to attend the funeral, gave a long tribute on the House floor on Thursday, saying the the best way to honor Kirk was to “advance the principles that he advanced, and to adopt his approach.”
National Republican Campaign Committee spokesperson Mike Marinella said that Democrats are “so consumed by hatred and political violence that they couldn’t even bring themselves to support a resolution condemning the assassination of Charlie Kirk.”
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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President Trump signed an executive order Friday to offer up fast-track “Gold Card” visas to people willing to pay $1 million or more.
“The Trump Gold Card is Here,” reads a government website, which features a mock-up of a bright, gilded card embossed with a photo of Mr. Trump, his signature and images of a bald eagle and the Statue of Liberty: “Unlock life in America.”
Under the Gold Card program, which Mr. Trump first floated in February, non-Americans who give a gift of at least $1 million to the Commerce Department will be eligible for an “expedited process” to gain an immigrant visa, the executive order states. Corporations can sponsor people for Gold Cards if they give the government at least $2 million.
Some 80,000 Gold Cards will be made available, according to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who said the program is still in the “implementation phase.”
People who are approved for a Gold Card after vetting by the State Department and Department of Homeland Security — and who pay a $15,000 “vetting fee” — will be considered lawful permanent residents, more commonly known as green-card holders, Lutnick told reporters Friday. He said Gold Cards will take the place of the existing EB-1 and EB-2 visa programs, which offer green cards to people with “exceptional ability” in business or other fields.
“You can prove exceptional value for the United States of America by contributing $1 million to the United States of America. That’s a pretty good expectation that they’re highly valuable,” he said.
Lutnick said: “In less than a month, the other visa Green Card categories are likely to be suspended, and this will be the model that people can come into the country.”
The administration is also considering offering a $5 million “Platinum Card” that will allow people to spend up to 270 days in the country without paying taxes on their non-U.S. income. That program, which Lutnick said would not offer a pathway to citizenship, will need approval from Congress before it launches. The federal government has set up an online waiting list.
Separately, Mr. Trump signed an executive order Friday that imposes an extra $100,000 fee for people who wish to enter the U.S. on an H-1B visa, a non-immigrant visa that allows tens of thousands of people to live and work in the U.S. for up to six years.
The change could mark a substantial crackdown on the H-1B program. Critics argue that the visas allow employers to undercut U.S. workers by sponsoring foreign job applicants willing to work for lower salaries. But supporters of the program argue it is essential to industries like tech that often struggle to find qualified U.S.-based workers — with firms like Amazon applying for thousands of H-1Bs per year — and employers are already required to pay H-1B recipients no less than the wages earned by similarly qualified workers.
Asked Friday how he believes tech companies will react to the new H-1B fee, Mr. Trump told reporters: “I think they’re going to be very happy.”
“And we’re going to be able to keep people in our country that are going to be very productive people, and in many cases, these companies are going to pay a lot of money for that, and they’re very happy about it,” the president said.
Aaron Navarro is a CBS News digital reporter covering the 2024 elections. He was previously an associate producer for the CBS News political unit in the 2021 and 2022 election cycles.
Tight end Brevin Jordan crosses into the end zone for a touchdown against the Florida Gators Aug 24. Photo courtesy Haylee Blitch
Sebastian Font, Co-Sports Editor
The Hurricanes come into this matchup red-hot off a 49-12 win over USF, and hope to take down the Gators for the second year in a row.
But this game is so much more than rivalry bragging rights.
This is a do or die game for the Florida Gators, not only for their season, but for their staff and organization as a whole.
Florida head coach Billy Napier is on the hot seat after his 1-2 start to the year, and the shine of former five-star DJ Lagway is beginning to fade after his rough start to the season. Both will look to turn the narratives around against one of the top teams in the country this Saturday.
The first possession for the Gators could be telling for how this game will unfold. If Florida is able to get a bit of confidence with an opening drive, this could be a typical four quarter rivalry matchup. But if Florida comes out flat, this game could get ugly quickly.
Either way the Hurricanes are too solid for the Gators to complete the upset, and between the two game scripts, expect the latter.
Final Score: Miami 42, Florida 16
Jayden Gonzalez, Co-Sports Editor
Following a 3-0 start, including two wins against top-20 opponents, No. 4 Miami has the full attention of the college football world.
With ESPN’s “College Gameday” coming to Coral Gables and a primetime matchup against an in-state rival, expectations are high for the Hurricanes this weekend.
If Miami wants to enter its bye week undefeated, the defense — led by Rueben Bain Jr. and Ahkeem Mesidor — will need to make Florida quarterback DJ Lagway uncomfortable. Against LSU, the sophomore threw five interceptions in a 20-10 loss.
If the Hurricanes apply similar pressure that the Tigers did, a raucous Hard Rock Stadium could force the Gators into another spiral.
On offense, as long as quarterback Carson Beck stays upright, he should have no trouble running Miami’s attack against a team he has plenty of history with. If the Hurricanes maintain the level of play they’ve shown through the first three weeks, Saturday could turn into a rout.
Final Score: Miami 38, Florida 17
Zach Cohen, Senior Staff Writer
From College GameDay to a primetime Saturday matchup, it doesn’t get any better than this.
A storied rivalry: Miami vs. Florida.
In what is set to be an exciting Saturday, both in Coral Gables and Miami Gardens, the Hurricanes will have the upper hand come gametime.
Florida has struggled, losing to USF, whom Miami crushed. And most recently, UF fell to LSU in a game where DJ Lagway threw five interceptions.
However, the Gators’ defense was poised, only giving up 20 points to the No. 3 team in the country.
Miami’s secondary needs to hold up against Lagway as he likes to throw the ball down the field, looking to flip the script on his poor start to the season,.
But if the Hurricanes offense can come out flying again, a hard-earned victory is in the cards.
Final Score: Miami 38, Florida 23
Brendan Cafferty, Staff Writer
With both Miami and Florida coming into this week four matchup in very different situations, the expectations each team has for themselves are, too, unalike.
As the ’Canes have tallied two ranked wins in just three weeks, they hope to continue their undefeated reign against the 1-2 Gators, notching another Florida school under their belt.
UF, trying to salvage their season, could view this game as an opportunity to climb back into the rankings as well as boost morale for their fanbase by knocking off an impressive rival.
Ultimately, this game will come down to who is more dominant on the defensive side of the ball, and with UM’s impressive D-Line, DJ Lagway’s chances trying to find space and move the ball will be more limited than Carson Beck’s and the Miami offense.
Final Score: Miami 33, Florida 13
David Lebowitz, Contributing Photographer/ Sixth-Year Redshirt Senior Carson Beck Surveys the defense againt USF on Saturday, September 13.
Bella Armstrong, Contributing Writer
Going into this weekend, it’s a matchup of two Florida goliaths—and a battle for in-state bragging rights.
UF football has long been coveted as a powerhouse, but its recent fall from the Top 25 courtesy of the South Florida Bulls is a sort-of relegation unbeknownst to the Gators. In short, the team is losing steam—and its confidence is rattled.
The No. 4 Miami Hurricanes will capitalize off of this, as UM continues to dominate. Currently 3-0, the Hurricanes are the only team in college football still undefeated after facing multiple ranked opponents—and they’ve made it look convincing.
Sure, the Gators will want to use their recent losses as fuel for the comeback of the season, but with a team as airtight as the Hurricanes starting lineup, that hope seems more like a fantasy.
With Carson Beck at the helm, Mark Fletcher Jr. bulldozing through enemy lines, and a monstrous defense, Florida will have to fight for every yard and every point. It will be brutal.
Under the lights—and immense pressure—of Hard Rock Stadium, it will be an uphill battle for the Gators from the opening snap.
Miami won’t just clear the Gators, they’ll own football in Florida.
Final Score: Miami 32, Florida 16
Anirudh Kannan, Contributing Writer
This Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium, another chapter will be written in the deeply rooted history of Florida vs Miami football.
The Gators season hasn’t exactly gone as planned with two losses already on the young season, including an ugly 18-16 loss against South Florida. Their offensive has struggled immensely barring a 55 point performance against LIU.
Meanwhile, Miami is red hot, following up an impressive win against Notre Dame with comprehensive victories against Bethune Cookman and USF.
Florida’s defense has the potential to make things interesting this Saturday, only allowing 36 points across their first three games. But right now it feels like Miami’s offense has too many weapons for any team in college football to contain.
Rivalry games can sometimes produce shocking results, but this simply won’t be one of them.
Final Score: Miami 31, Florida 13
Omar Pinto, Contributing Writer
The Hurricanes storm into week four looking like arguably the nation’s best.
At 3-0 with multiple ranked wins and two Heisman contenders in Carson Beck and Rueben Bain Jr., Miami’s offense is averaging over 40 points per game and providing a physical punch on the defensive side.
Florida, meanwhile, limps into Hard Rock Stadium at 1–2, fresh off a road loss to No. 3 LSU where quarterback DJ Lagway threw five interceptions. Their other loss came in a 18-16 upset at home to USF, who Miami easily thrashed 49-12.
Still, the Gators defense has been a bright spot, allowing just 12 points per game thus far. For Florida to have any chance, Lagway must protect the ball and hope the defense can somehow contain Miami’s surgical offensive attack.
Rivalry energy might keep it close early, but the Hurricanes are simply better than the gators in all facets of the game.
Final Score: Miami 42, Florida 20
Olivia Attalla, Contributing Writer
All eyes are on the Miami Hurricanes with College GameDay rolling into town this weekend.
Carson Beck has been a human highlight reel this season with his arm talent, and has flied up the rankings for Heisman hopefuls. And as a whole the Miami Hurricane are one of the top leading teams in the country.
On the other side, UF is coming out of two back to back losses. Their quarterback DJ Lagway is struggling after throwing five interceptions against LSU last week, not to mention their coaching situation isn’t the best.
Based off the Gators current run of form, it won’t be nearly enough to stop Miami unless their defense steps up from the beginning and somehow manages to slow down the Hurricanes high-powered offense.
Miami will take the win convincingly and send the Gators back to the swamp empty handed.
Final Score: Miami 37, Florida 21
Head coach Mario Cristobal introduces senior quarterback Cam Ward to Miami Hurricanes fans after beating the University of Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on August 31, 2024.
It’s been approximately one month since President Trump announced at a press conference that his administration is “looking into” federally reclassifying cannabis and that it would “make a determination over the next few weeks.”
Since then, neither the president nor his spokespersons have provided any further updates regarding either their intentions or their timeline. But while others wait, NORML is continuing to go about our work standing up for the rights of responsible cannabis consumers.
In recent days, NORML issued a primer highlighting the policy limitations associated with cannabis rescheduling and we’ve generated nearly 45,000 letters to the White House calling for marijuana descheduling – removing it entirely from the Controlled Substances Act, thereby allowing states the autonomy to set their own cannabis regulatory policies free from undue federal interference.
At the state level, NORML Chapters continue to push back against legislative efforts that seek to compromise consumers’ freedoms. For example, in California, we continue to advance efforts to repeal excessive taxation on cannabis products. In Nebraska, we continue to push back against regulators’ efforts to undermine the will of the voters who decided in favor of comprehensive medical cannabis access. The list goes on, and continues to grow, as new challenges to sensible cannabis policies arise.
Federally, we are working with Congressional leaders to advance critical legislation – such as support for veterans’ medical cannabis access and the advancement of the MORE Act – and to hold the line against attacks on the victories we have already secured.
Our efforts are made possible by your generosity. NORML doesn’t have multimillion dollar donors nor are we fueled by the multibillion dollar legal cannabis industry. We stand for – and we answer to you the cannabis consumer. And right now we need your help.
For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.
This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.
Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com
For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.
This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.
Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com
For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.
This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.
Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) – The brother of Frank Ordonez is furious after a judge dropped a manslaughter charge brought against suspended Miami-Dade Police Officer Jose Mateo for his involvement in the 2019 shootout with two jewelry store robbers that left Ordonez and another bystander dead.
Roy Ordonez on Friday spoke on Broward County Circuit Court Judge Ernest Kollra ruling for the first time since it was delivered, expressing his disappointment at the outcome and blaming police for causing his brother to be killed.
“Like I said many times, they did a horrible job. The only thing they did do a good job at is protecting themselves,” said Roy Ordonez, Frank’s brother.
Kollra handed out an order Thursday saying, “After applying the statutory and case law to the facts of this case and determining the credibility of the witnesses who testified, the Court finds the fact and testimony to support the application of immunity under Florida’s ‘stand your ground’ law.”
Roy said the ruling sets a concerning precedent.
“If you really think that this is justifiable, to shoot 200 plus rounds in 25 seconds in a street full of civilians going home, if they think that this is what they’re trained to do, I’m scared for myself and the public going forward,” he said.
The Broward State Attorney’s Office released a statement insisting the state’s “stand your ground” law does not apply if an innocent bystander is killed in a confrontation.
“…’Stand your ground’ immunity does not apply in matters involving innocent bystanders, like Frank Ordonez and Richard Cutshaw, who presented no danger to officers. In this incident, two innocent men were killed and the lives of numerous other innocent bystanders were endangered.”
Mateo spoke with 7News on Thursday. He said he knew all along every action he took that day to confront two men who had robbed a jewelry store and taken Ordonez hostage inside a UPS truck.
“I had to pull out my gun and take action, you know. I’ve had faith that I did my job; that I did what I was supposed to do,” he said.
The convicted felons who led police on a multi-county chase were killed in the shootout, along with Frank and Richard Cutshaw, who was struck by a stray bullet that pierced his back windshield.
In the weeks following the deadly shootout, Mateo and three other officers were charged with manslaughter and were all headed to trial until Mateo’s attorney filed a motion under Florida’s “stand your ground” law, claiming his client was just doing his job.
After nearly two weeks of testimony from other officers and witnesses, Kollra would ultimately agree, stating, “…Body Worn Camera video confirms the testimony of the law enforcement witnesses and civilian witnesses as to how it was the two convicted felons who started, continued and chose to fire first at anyone that came near the UPS truck.”
Mateo’s attorney, Richard Diaz, said Kollra’s ruling is historic.
“Those officers can go to work knowing they’re gonna have a law that protects them,” said Diaz.
The state attorney’s office has said they intend to appeal Judge Kollra’s decision and plan to move forward with the manslaughter charges brought against the three other officers.
Copyright 2025 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Three-Year Effort to Reach 800 Students in Four Schools, and Provide a Model for High-Need Classrooms
Grant Unveiled as New Report Highlights Miami’s Education Achievements and Challenges, Providing Forward-Thinking Solutions
ThePartnership for Miami (PFM) today announced a nearly $2 million commitment to expand The Lucy Project’s (TLP) successful early literacy program, the Literacy Hub, across Miami-Dade County. The initiative is anchored by a $1 million lead gift from Citadel founder and CEO Kenneth C. Griffin and Griffin Catalyst, along with major gifts from Robert and Melly Sanchez, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Leslie Miller Saiontz. Over the next three years, The Lucy Project’s evidence-based “Structured Literacy” approach will reach four schools, supporting 800 students from kindergarten through 2nd grade, strengthening Miami’s education ecosystem.
Research demonstrates that students who finish 3rd grade without reading proficiency rarely catch up. The Lucy Project’s model provides a way to change this trajectory through classroom-tested strategies.
The Literacy Hub was piloted with kindergarten students at Norwood Elementary, a Title I Miami-Dade County Public School (M-DCPS) in Miami Gardens. Reading proficiency rose from 52% to 91% in one year, and a record number of kindergarteners were accepted into the Gifted Education Program. Behind these gains were M-DCPS teachers, who partnered with The Lucy Project to strengthen evidence-based Structured Literacy practices to provide the tailored support students needed to thrive.
“In a world where literacy is the gateway to lifelong opportunity, our children deserve learning approaches that unlock their full potential,” said Raul Moas, President of Partnership for Miami. “The Lucy Project partners with teachers to deepen evidence-based Structured Literacy instruction and small group differentiation.”
“We are incredibly grateful to the Partnership for Miami for recognizing the urgency of the city’s literacy crisis and for bringing leaders together to pursue impactful solutions,” said Sandra Bermudez, Founder of The Lucy Project. “This grant strengthens our data-backed approach to early reading, grounded in the science of reading, and demonstrates the change that’s possible when we work together.”
The initiative includes three years of teacher training and small-group support at Auburndale Elementary, Beacon College Prep, Florida City Elementary and Norwood Elementary, followed by school-led implementation with independent research to track and validate results.
“Miami is our home, and we believe its future depends on the strength of its schools and the success of its children,” said Robert Sanchez, Partnership for Miami board member and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ryder System, Inc. “Our commitment reflects our belief in The Lucy Project and in Miami’s potential to lead the way in improving literacy outcomes.”
Reaffirming this commitment to bold action on behalf of the 340,000 K-12 students served by public schools in Miami-Dade County, the Partnership is also releasing its first major report on expanding high-quality education across the county.
“Every child in Miami deserves a high-quality school that prepares them for the future,” said Ana-Marie Codina, Partnership for Miami Co-Chair and CEO of Codina Partners. “Our report, Beyond the Grade: A Close Look at Miami’s K-12 System, gives an honest assessment of our strengths and challenges, and points toward forward-thinking solutions that can set our students and our city up for long-term success.”
Key findings from the report include:
High Marks with Challenges: Miami-Dade County Public Schools have earned an “A” rating for six years, yet only 41% of students are proficient in English Language Arts (ELA) in 3rd-10th and Math 3rd-8th.
Achievement Gaps: Miami outperformed nearly all large cities on the 2024 NAEP assessment but in 8th grade Math only 22% of students scored at or above proficient and in 8th grade Reading just 28% achieved that level.
Success is Possible: Only 41% of 3rd-10th public school students are proficient in English Language Arts and Math in 3rd-8th yet over 80% of students at Miami’s highest performing public schools are at proficient or advanced levels.
For an abbreviated look at data points from the report, click here.
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ABOUT PARTNERSHIP FOR MIAMI
As business leaders acting in the civic interest, the Partnership for Miami facilitates thoughtful collaborations among partners in the private and public sectors to build a Miami that works for everyone. Together with grassroots organizations, researchers, policymakers and philanthropists the Partnership develops research and implements solutions in the areas critical to Miami’s long-term success: education, transit & infrastructure and housing & affordability.
The Lucy Project is a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring every child has access to high quality literacy instruction, regardless of zip code. Grounded in the Science of Reading, we provide daily structured literacy intervention to students in underserved communities, support their teachers with coaching and professional development, and offer fee based services through our Literacy Ladder Kids program. Our school wide model is offered at no cost to Title I public schools and builds lasting capacity by helping teachers differentiate instruction and grow into literacy specialists. Through in school and after school programs, summer learning, and training opportunities, The Lucy Project is closing the literacy gap one student, one classroom, and one school at a time. We believe reading is a right, not a privilege, and that literacy levels the playing field for all children.
If you’re planning to take out a $750,000 mortgage, you should know what the monthly payments are now that the Fed has cut rates.
Sakchai Vongsasiripat/Getty Images
The Federal Reserve delivered its first interest rate cut since December 2024 this week, lowering its benchmark rate by a quarter-point to a range of 4.00% to 4.25%. The move represents a significant policy shift for the central bank, which had maintained a cautious approach throughout most of 2025, leaving borrowers to face elevated rates amid a tough economic landscape. But while analysts and experts widely anticipated that the Fed would cut rates this month, the Fed also noted during the rate cut announcement that more action may come by year’s end.
The context behind this move makes this decision particularly noteworthy. Through the first half of 2025, rates remained unchanged as policymakers wrestled with stubborn inflation and uncertainty surrounding newly implemented economic policies. The Fed’s approach did not work as hoped, though, as inflation remained stubborn and then rose again over the last few months. However, mounting concerns about labor market weakness — including higher-than-expected unemployment levels — ultimately convinced Fed officials that the risks of waiting outweighed the benefits.
Mortgage rates responded before the rate cut was even official, with the average 30-year fixed rate dropping to approximately 6.13% just before the close of the September meeting. That decrease is a dramatic improvement from the 7%-plus rates that dominated early 2025. As a result, a $750,000 mortgage at today’s rates costs a lot less each month than it would have just months ago. Below, we’ll break down what those monthly payments could look like now.
What are the monthly payments on a $750,000 mortgage now that the Fed has cut rates?
The recent decline in mortgage rates may appear incremental on paper. However, when you’re borrowing close to a million dollars for a home, every basis point matters for your monthly budget and overall financial planning.
At today’s average rate of 6.13% for a 30-year fixed mortgage, the payment on a $750,000 loan comes to $4,559.50 per month. This represents the principal mortgage loan payment and interest before factoring in property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and any private mortgage insurance requirements.
To put this improvement in perspective, let’s consider where mortgage rates stood at the start of 2025. When 30-year mortgage rates averaged about 7.04% in early January, the monthly payment on the same $750,000 loan would have been approximately $5,009.93. The difference amounts to more than $450 per month, or roughly $5,400 annually in reduced housing costs.
Those types of savings can add meaningful financial flexibility to the budgets of borrowers across different market segments. For move-up buyers, a savings of $450 per month might mean the difference between a stretched budget and a healthy debt-to-income ratio. For other homebuyers, those savings could free up extra cash flow for other investments or home improvements. And for those refinancing existing loans, these types of rate savings represent a compelling opportunity to restructure their housing debt more favorably.
The long-term implications are even more dramatic. Over the complete 30-year mortgage loan term, the difference between borrowing at a 7.04% rate versus a 6.13% rate adds up to more than $160,000 in total interest savings. This underscores why timing mortgage decisions around rate cycles can have a profound impact on your finances, particularly when it comes to high-value home purchases where the absolute dollar amounts are substantial.
How much would it cost to refinance a $750,000 mortgage at today’s rates?
While homebuyers can benefit from this week’s rate drop, current homeowners shouldn’t overlook the refinancing opportunities created by the Fed’s pivot. While the savings potential varies based on loan terms and other circumstances, here’s what the monthly payments would look like on a $750,000 mortgage at today’s average refi rates:
A 15-year refinance at 5.98%: With this rate and term, the monthly principal and interest payments on a $750,000 mortgage loan refi would be $6,320.83. While this represents a higher monthly commitment compared to 30-year options, the shorter amortization period allows homeowners to build equity faster and achieve significant interest savings over the loan’s lifetime.
A 30-year refinance at 6.67%: For homeowners preferring to maintain lower monthly payments while spreading costs over a longer period, the monthly 30-year refinance loan payment would be $4,824.67 at today’s average rates. This strategy keeps more cash flow available for other financial goals while still capturing the benefits of today’s improved rate environment.
The bottom line
The Federal Reserve’s rate cut has delivered tangible relief to the mortgage market, with 30-year rates settling near 6.13% — their most attractive levels in nearly three years. For buyers considering a $750,000 mortgage, this translates to monthly savings of about $450 compared to payments that came with the rate environment at the start of 2025.
These improved conditions create opportunities across multiple buyer categories. For those entering the housing market, lower rates enhance purchasing power and monthly affordability. For existing homeowners with higher-rate mortgages, refinancing opportunities have become substantially more attractive. And, the potential for additional Fed rate cuts later this year adds another layer of optimism to the equation.
Angelica Leicht is the senior editor for the Managing Your Money section for CBSNews.com, where she writes and edits articles on a range of personal finance topics. Angelica previously held editing roles at The Simple Dollar, Interest, HousingWire and other financial publications.
Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez announced that his office is delivering an additional $7.5 million in savings, bringing a total immediate relief this year to $13.5 million delivered by his administration.
In his remarks to the Board of County Commissioners during the second budget hearing celebrated last night. Tax Collector Fernandez urged that the new funds be used to reverse fee hikes, reduce Special Transportation Services (STS) fares for seniors and people with disabilities, and restore programs like Save Our Seniors.
“Taxpayers already give enough. Our responsibility is not to take more from families but to make every dollar work harder for them. That’s why I’ve called for these new savings to go directly toward rolling back hidden fees, lowering STS fares for our most vulnerable residents, and protecting seniors who depend on County programs.” Said Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez.
Immediately following the Tax Collector’s announcement, Chairman Anthony Rodriguez moved to apply these funds, along with other savings, toward rolling back the proposed increases to transit fares and STS.
Beyond dollars, Fernandez highlighted the broader reforms made by his office which include, eliminating long lines, shutting down fraud, partnering with law enforcement, and delivering more than $9.6 billion to police, fire, schools, and parks.
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The 2025 BMW X6 M Competition in Miami is immediately going to impress. It’s got a strong presence due to its sleek, coupe-roofed profile, aggressive grille and quad exhausts, to name a few. From the start, you know it’s not your everyday SUV. It roars, in a refined, high-tuned way.
The exterior updates include sharpened lines and new black trim that gives it that extra style under the hot Florida sun. But it’s how it moves that draws people to look. The combination of sound, speed, and the way it leans into corners, offers a very unique experience.
Even in traffic, the 617-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with 48-volt mild hybrid assistance reminds you this isn’t an X6 that’s trying to be subtle. There’s torque down low that pulls you off the line with urgency, though launch control is best saved for wide, open stretches like the MacArthur Causeway or I-95 when it’s manageable.
Getting you to zero to 60 in about 3.7 seconds, the 2025 BMW X6 M Competition takes the road like a rocket ship. Fuel economy is 13 miles per gallon in the stop-and-go of the city, and 18 mpg on the highway.
Priced at more than $130,000, the adaptive M suspension and the aggressive tuning promise a sport-like experience. Cruise on smooth stretches and it feels like you are driving on air.
Inside, the cabin is a refuge from the sun and the street. You get large curving displays, high-quality leather and precise climate control. The front seats ventilate nicely and rear seats are noticeably upright.
Know that the sloped roof reduces cargo capacity a bit compared to boxier SUVs.
The X6 M Competition handles stop-and-go well, though the throttle is overly responsive at times, and the exhaust note gets loud quickly, even in milder drive modes. Quiet mode helps, but you’ll find yourself switching to sport more often than not. Steering is precise and direct, which helps threading through traffic.
The 2025 X6 M Competition is a car that almost demands dual personalities. On one hand, it’s brash, loud, fast, theater on four wheels. On the other, it’s well made, luxurious, with enough tech and comfort when you ease up on the throttle. If you want to feel alive in every drive, this is a machine that delivers. Give it a spin and tell me what you think.
“During the budget hearing, I supported measures aimed at lowering taxes and fees to give families real relief this year.
Public safety and core services must always come first. Everything else has to earn its place in the budget. I was glad to see funding protected for our Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue, and that the gas tax hike and new park fees were withdrawn. But I could not support this budget.
I was also disappointed that the Ludlam Trail was not funded. This is a promise we made to thousands of families along the corridor and to residents across the county. It is an area of countywide significance, and I will not allow it to be forgotten.
We need accountability in nonprofit funding, protection for county employees, and a line-item budget so every dollar can be tracked. I want to thank all the residents who came out to speak and those who took the time to reach out and share their thoughts on the important issues affecting our community.
I look forward to continuing these conversations and working together on solutions that make a real difference.”
The Alligator sports editor Luke Adragna previews Florida football ahead of its matchup against the Hurricanes (@lukeadrag on X)
Redshirt senior defensive back, Mishael Powell, intercepts a pass from the University of Florida quarterback at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on August 31, 2024.
Time is ticking for the Florida Gators and head coach Billy Napier.
After an offseason characterized by confidence within the program and lofty expectations from outside, none of what many anticipated has come to fruition. The Gators are 1-2, suffered an upset loss to South Florida at home, and just recently lost to the No. 3 Louisiana State Tigers 20-10 in a five-interception performance by quarterback DJ Lagway.
Despite that, Napier has continued to harp that the Gators are “close”, and Florida players are embracing the challenge as the team heads south to play No. 4 Miami (3-0) on Saturday.
“We want all the smoke,” said Gators defensive back Jordan Castell. “We’re ready to play. It don’t matter who it is.”
The Hurricanes have looked like one of the most talented teams in the country. Miami is led by a cohort of veterans on each side of the ball that will pose a significant challenge for Florida. Here’s what to look out for on the Gators’ side of the field:
Florida X-factor of the week:
RB Jadan Baugh
After an impressive freshman season earning Freshman All-SEC honors, Baugh was named to the Paul Hornung and Doak Walker award watch lists heading into this season. However, in just three games, many are questioning Napier’s lack of usage of the talented running back.
Baugh heads into Miami with 37 carries for 243 yards and a touchdown. His impact has dwindled slightly throughout each game. After logging six carries in the first drive against South Florida, Baugh carried the ball just 12 more times that contest. Against LSU, he finished with just 10 carries.
The Atlanta, Georgia, native is quick-footed, has elite breakaway speed and can also be utilized in the passing game when schemed.
Against Miami’s talented defensive line, Baugh’s opportunities could be difficult to come by. Factoring in Florida’s recent offensive line struggles, the Gators could elect to use Baugh and backup running back Ja’Kobi Jackson as run-blockers and target them in screen plays in order to alleviate pressure on Lagway.
Gators’ key matchups:
Florida’s front seven vs. Miami’s offensive line
The Gators’ defensive line features a strong veteran presence along with a young, talented core. However, several questions have arisen throughout Florida’s first three games of the season.
The unit produced 19 sacks in its final four games of the 2024 season. But without redshirt senior Caleb Banks, who suffered a foot injury against LSU on Saturday, there will be more responsibility placed on unproven players.
“Still enough players to have a very effective group,” Napier said Wednesday. “I’m excited about what I see out of the young players in the group. Tavorise Brown and [Joseph] Mbatchou, obviously [Brendan] Bett. Brien Taylor Jr. It’s a good group.”
Through three games, Florida has logged just two sacks. Gators edge rushers George Gumbs Jr. and Tyreak Sapp are among the most impactful players on the front seven, but the unit will have to get past a proven Miami offensive line.
The ‘Canes unit ranks No. 11 in Pro Football Focus’ run-blocking grade. Right tackle Francis Mauigoa has led Miami’s top-rated offensive lineman through three games with an 81.4 offensive grade and an 83.8 run-blocking grade on PFF.
As a unit, the Hurricanes have allowed just four sacks through three games, and starting quarterback Carson Beck has only faced pressure on 11 of his 86 dropbacks.
Sophomore running back, Mark Fletcher, Jr. smiles after beating the University of Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on August 31, 2024.
Vernell Brown III vs. Miami secondary
Brown, a true freshman, has been one of the most eye-catching players on Florida’s roster this season. Despite Lagway being unable to throw all of spring due to a shoulder injury and participating in his first 11-on-11 drill just weeks before the season, it’s clear the two have already formed a reliable chemistry.
Through three games, Brown leads Gators’ pass catchers with 197 receiving yards on 16 catches. He is yet to add a touchdown, but has also played a significant role on special teams as the team’s primary returner.
He logged 70 return yards on four attempts in Florida’s opener. Against USF, he added a 40-yard punt return. And, against LSU, he totaled 43 return yards on three attempts.
“We were kind of expecting that because throughout the whole spring and the whole camp, he’s been doing it every day,” said wide receiver Eugene Wilson. “We’ve been seeing it. We were just waiting for him to have his moment to go out there and put it on tape.”
However, it will be an interesting challenge to watch Hurricanes safeties coach Will Harris, who left the Gators in 2024 for Miami, to scheme against his former team.
“You know he’s going to send pressure,” Castell said. “I already told them boys, just be ready.”
Miami’s secondary has logged an interception in each of its first three games and is matched up against Lagway, who has struggled significantly since Florida’s opener. He has just two touchdowns and six interceptions against FBS opponents.
Miami vs Florida Football: A Quick History
Florida is 27-30 against the Hurricanes all-time.
Miami won its most recent matchup against the Gators, 41-17, on Aug. 31, 2024.
Florida hasn’t won in Miami since 1985, when it defeated the Hurricanes 35-23.
Gators football has three Heisman Trophy winners in Steve Spurrier (1966), Danny Wuerffel (1996) and Tim Tebow (2007). Miami has two in Vinny Testaverde (1986) and Gino Torretta (1992).
Florida football has never produced a first-overall pick. The Hurricanes have three No. 1 overall players, the most recent being quarterback Cam Ward (2025).
Tight end Brevin Jordan crosses into the end zone for a touchdown against the Florida Gators Aug 24. Photo courtesy Haylee Blitch
