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Tag: Brevard County

  • NASA and SpaceX successfully launches Crew-8 mission

    NASA and SpaceX successfully launches Crew-8 mission

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    KENNEDY SPACE CENTER — A scrubbed launch did not stop NASA and SpaceX from sending the four-member Crew-8 mission to the International Space Station on Sunday night.

    What You Need To Know

    • The launch happened on Sunday at 10:53 p.m. ET
    • Crew-8 members will spend the next months conducting experiments

    Countdown to liftoff

    Watch the launch and hear the sonic boom of the returning first-stage rocket.

    Right as the instantaneous launch window opened at 10:53 p.m. ET, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched NASA astronauts Cmdr. Matthew Dominick, pilot Michael Barratt, and mission specialists Jeanette Epps and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center on Sunday, March 2.

    The Falcon 9’s nine Merlin engines roared into the night as it brighten the dark sky like a small sun, creating multiple colors during stage separation between the rocket and the Dragon capsule.

    Space lovers counted down to liftoff as the launch caused spectators to gap in wonder and car alarms to go off.

    The next stop for this crew will be the International Space Station, with the targeted docking time at 3 a.m. ET, Tuesday, March 5, confirmed NASA.

    There was a last minute surprise when a small crack was discovered on the Dragon capsule’s hatch, but the launch team reviewed it and determined that it was OK to continue the launch.

    SpaceX officials stated that the crack should re-seal during re-entry.

    Going to the ISS

    The Falcon’s first-stage booster, B1083, is brand new, meaning the Crew-8 mission is the first one for this little rocket.

    For Florida, this was the 14th launch for the Sunshine State this year. 

    After the stage separation, the first-stage booster landed at Landing Zone 1, that sent a cracking sonic boom that was heard for miles around.

    Not counting this mission, the Dragon capsule named Endeavour has a few missions under its belt. The 26.7-foot-tall (8.1 meters) space taxis that will send the four crewmembers has successfully carried out the following missions.

    “Lifting off from Launch Pad 39A on a Falcon 9 rocket, Dragon will accelerate to approximately 17,500 mph, to dock with the space station,” NASA stated.

    Those are some fast speeds. Learn how NASA astronauts train to deal with them.

    For the Dragon to move that fast, it is all thanks to the 229.6-foot-tall (69.9 meters) Falcon 9 rocket and its nine Merlin engines. Because of those engines, the rocket can lift a payload of 50,265 pounds and send it to low-Earth orbit, which is where the ISS is.

    The Endeavour will dock autonomously with the ISS’s Harmony module, but the crew can take the controls and pilot it themselves, if needed.

    Attempting to launch

    It was set to go up at 11:16 p.m. ET, Saturday, but NASA officials said that they were scrubbing the mission due to unfavorable weather. The forecast was a bit iffy, with a 40% chance of good liftoff conditions, according to the 45th Weather Squadron. The main concerns were the flight through precipitation, thick cloud layer and the cumulus cloud rules.

    This is not the first time Mother Nature has put a hold on this launch. Originally, it was going to be sent up at 12:04 a.m. ET, Friday, but NASA stated that weather conditions were not ideal.

    The squadron gave a 75% chance of good launch weather for Sunday’s flight, with the only concerns being the flight through precipitation and cumulus cloud rule. But later during the night, NASA updated that to 90%.

    If it did not go up on Sunday, the next attempt would have been Monday, March 4, at 10:31 p.m. ET.

    About the mission

    While NASA says that the crew members will spend several months onboard the ISS, usually it is about six months if we look at past crewed missions.

    And they will not be alone. They will belong to the ISS’s Expedition 69 and 70. An expedition means the current crew in the International Space Station.

    Before the Crew-8 joins them, there are currently seven crew members on the floating laboratory. They recently had guests from the Ax-3 mission.

    The Crew-8 will conduct more than 200 experiments and demonstrate technology.

    “Experiments include using stem cells to create organoid models to study degenerative diseases, studying the effects of microgravity and UV radiation on plants at a cellular level, and testing whether wearing pressure cuffs on the legs could prevent fluid shifts and reduce health problems in astronauts,” NASA explained.

    Patrick O’Neil, the public relations officer for the ISS National Lab, explained to Spectrum News about some of the work that is done on the ISS.

    Watch the launch

     

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    Anthony Leone

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  • WATCH LIVE at 10:53 p.m.: NASA, SpaceX to attempt Crew-8 launch after days of delays

    WATCH LIVE at 10:53 p.m.: NASA, SpaceX to attempt Crew-8 launch after days of delays

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    BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – SpaceX and NASA’s Crew-8 mission to the International Space Station will attempt to launch Sunday night after being scrubbed on Saturday.

    The launch had originally been set for early Friday and was delayed to Saturday due to high winds forecast in the Falcon 9 rocket’s ascent corridor, or trajectory, from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39. Saturday’s launch was scrubbed for the same reason, officials said.

    NASA and SpaceX said they will now try to launch Sunday at 10:53 p.m. with a 75% chance for favorable weather.

    A backup opportunity is available at 10:31 p.m. Monday if needed. According to the 45th Weather Squadron, the chance for favorable weather at launch time would increase to 80% in the event of a 24-hour delay.

    [EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]

    NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, commander; Michael Barratt, pilot; and Jeanette Epps, mission specialist, will join Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin, also a mission specialist, in the same SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour capsule that was used for the Demo-2, Crew-2 and Crew-6 flights, as well as Axiom Mission 1.

    The four will focus on more than 200 science experiments at the space station, including studies of motion sickness and human movement in microgravity, according to NASA.

    After stage separation, the Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage will attempt to touch down at Landing Zone 1 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

    ClickOrlando.com will stream the launch live at the top of this story when coverage begins.

    Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily:

    Copyright 2024 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.

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    Brandon Hogan, Jacob Langston

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  • Here’s all of the ballot questions for Central Florida voters to decide

    Here’s all of the ballot questions for Central Florida voters to decide

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    FLORIDA — The 2024 presidential race is well underway, with several states already holding their primary elections to decide who will top the Republican and Democratic tickets in November. Floridians across the state will have a chance to make their voice heard on Tuesday, March 19. Many municipalities will hold their local elections, with some charter amendments and ballot questions thrown in. 


    Before that can happen, there are some important dates for voters in Central Florida to be aware of.

    Both Orange and Flagler counties will hold municipal elections in addition to the Presidential Preference Primary election for Republicans on March 19.

    Voters looking to vote by mail should make sure to get their applications in before Thursday, March 7.

    Residents of Central Florida looking to avoid potentially long lines at their polling places can take part in early voting, which will be open from March 9 through March 16. Voters in Orange and Osceola counties will be able to vote early on March 17 as well.

    Here are the municipal elections taking place in Orange County on March 19:

    Municipal Candidates / Amendments:

    • City of Apopka – (City Council Seats 3, 4) 
    • City of Eatonville – (Council Seats 4, 5 and 5 Charter questions)
    • City of Edgewood – (9 Charter questions)
    • City of Maitland – (1 question)
    • City of Ocoee – (City Comm. Dist. 4 and 13 Charter questions)
    • City of Winter Garden – (City Comm. Dist. 2, 3) 
    • City of Winter Park – (Mayor and City Comm. Seat 2) 
    • Town of Oakland – (Mayor) 

    Voters in Flagler County can vote for the City of Flagler Beach Mayor, and 1 City Commissioner.

    After the Presidential Preference Primary, there’s the statewide primary election, which will host other local offices across the state on Aug. 20. Voters will need to adjust or confirm their registration by July 22 in order to vote in that election.

    The General Election will take place on Nov. 5 this year, with a voter registration deadline of Oct. 7.

    Early voting dates for the primary and general elections have yet to be confirmed.

    Here is a full list of the proposed charter amendments or ballot questions, according to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office.

    OCOEE

    Question #1

    Amendment of § C-8, City of Ocoee Charter, to Liberally Construe the City’s Powers

    Section C-8 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City of Ocoee’s powers be liberally construed in favor of the city to effect their intended purposes.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #2

    Amendment of § C-8, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for the Exchange of Property

    Section C-8 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City’s enumerated powers shall include the right to acquire or dispose of property, including real property, by exchange.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #3

    Amendment of § C-11, City of Ocoee Charter, to Establish One (1) Year Residency Requirements

    Section C-11 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that candidates for Mayor shall reside in the City of Ocoee for at least one (1) year before qualifying as a candidate and to require candidates for City Commissioner to reside in the district they seek to represent for at least one (1) year before qualifying as a candidate; candidates shall provide such proof of residency as may be prescribed by ordinance.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #4

    Amendment of § C-11, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide Consent to a Background Check

    Section C-11 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that each candidate for Mayor and City Commissioner shall consent to a background check to verify the candidate’s qualifications to hold office; and no candidate shall be barred from running for office without notice, a hearing, and clear and convincing evidence that the candidate is not qualified to hold office.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #5

    Amendment of § C-16, City of Ocoee Charter, to Limit Salaries to Part-Time Compensation

    Section C-16 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the salaries of the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and Commissioners shall be commensurate with the part-time nature of the duties of the office.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #6

    Amendment of § C-17, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for Election of Successors

    Section C-17 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the successor to the office of Mayor or City Commissioner shall be elected at the next regular or general city election, if held within twelve (12) months of the vacancy.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #7

    Amendment of § C-18, City of Ocoee Charter, to Authorize Designation of an Accountant

    Section C-18 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to designate an accountant or accounting firm in accordance with the procedures set forth in Florida Statutes §

    218.391 annually or for a period not to exceed five (5) years.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #8

    Amendment of § C-21, City of Ocoee Charter, to Authorize Commencement of City Manager Residency

    Section C-21 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to reasonably extend the requirement for the City Manager to reside in the City of Ocoee within one (1) year of beginning employment upon the Commission’s unanimous approval.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #9

    Amendment of § C-28, City of Ocoee Charter, for Budget Approval of City Clerk’s Salary

    Section C-28 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to clarify that the City Manager shall determine the City Clerk’s salary, subject to budget approval by the City Commission.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #10

    Amendment of § C-45, City of Ocoee Charter, to Define “Regular,” “Special,” and “General City Elections”

    Section C-45 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to define “regular elections” as those held at regular intervals for the election of Mayor and City Commissioner, “special elections” as those held to fill a vacancy in the office of Mayor or City Commissioner, for a citizen initiative to approve of an ordinance, or a referendum to repeal an ordinance, and “general elections” as any other municipal election.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #11

    Amendment of § C-45, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for Swearing-In to Office

    Section C-45 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that any person elected to the office of Mayor or City Commissioner shall be sworn into office immediately prior to commencement of the next regularly scheduled City Commission meeting held after the Canvassing Board declares the election results.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #12

    Amendment of § C-49, City of Ocoee Charter, to Set Elections by Resolution or Ordinance

    Section C-49 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to set the dates of elections and dates of qualifying periods for candidates by either resolution or ordinance.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #13

    Amendment of § C-50, City of Ocoee Charter, to Appoint City Clerk to Canvassing Board

    Section C-50 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to appoint the City Clerk to the City of Ocoee’s election Canvassing Board in addition to two (2) citizens and two

    (2) citizen alternates appointed by the City Commission.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    MAITLAND

    Question 1

    City of Maitland General Obligation Bonds for a New Public Library and Park Project

    Shall the City issue bonds to finance the construction and equipping of a new public library and improving its location at Quinn Strong Park in the principal amount not to exceed $14,000,000, bearing interest not exceeding the legal rate, maturing not later than thirty (30) years from the date of issuance, payable from ad valorem taxes to be levied in the City on all taxable property?

    EDGEWOOD

    Question 1

    Removal of Unnecessary Transition Schedule Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to delete the now unnecessary transition schedule used to phase in the adjustment to the current staggered three year terms for Council members?

    Question 2

    Mayoral Stipend Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to increase the maximum monthly stipend amount the City Council is authorized to approve for payment to a mayor from the current $1,000 to $3,000?

    Question 3

    Adoption of Emergency Ordinances Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to delete local provisions regarding emergency ordinances and to provide that emergency ordinances may be adopted in the manner set forth in Florida state law?

    Question 4

    Electronic Distribution of City Code Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to provide an option for electronic distribution of the City Code?

    Question 5

    Grammatical Correction Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to make non-substantive corrections in Article 4?

    Question 6

    Timing of Budget Message Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to change the timing of the Mayor’s annual budget message?

    Question 7

    Reserves Savings Cap Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to change terminology related to reserves allowed to be saved by the City to provide for a cap on “uncommitted reserves” rather than the current terminology used of “unrestricted reserves”?

    Question 8

    Procurement Threshold Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to provide that for any procurement between $10,000 and $25,000, the City shall obtain at least three quotes and that for any procurement over $25,000, the City shall utilize a competitive bidding method?

    Question 9

    Resolution of Tie Votes in City Elections Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood City Charter be amended to provide that in the event of a tie in a city council election result, the winner shall be determined between the two tied candidates by a coin flip?

    EATONVILLE

    Question 1

    Providing a Defined Qualifying Period and Methods of Qualifying for Office

    Amending the Charter to provide a defined qualifying period for candidates for Mayor or Council and providing alternative methods of qualifying to run for office.

    Question 2

    Amending the Method for Confirming Mayoral Appointments to Avoid Deadlock

    Amending confirmation of Mayoral appointments providing interim appointees not confirmed by Council within 120 days, may continue to serve no more than 180 days, during which time the Mayor shall propose 3 candidates, one of which may be the interim appointee, for confirmation by Council. If no candidate is confirmed within the 180-day period, the Mayor may appoint a candidate from among the 3 who will fill the position on a permanent basis.

    Question 3

    Amending the Method for Selecting the Vice Mayor

    Amending the method for the selection of the Vice Mayor to provide for election by the Town Council.

    Question 4

    Allowing Council to Establish the Effective Date of Any Mayoral or Council Salary Increase

    Amending the Charter by allowing the Town Council to establish the effective date of any Mayoral or Council salary increases in the ordinance adopting such increases.

    Question 5

    Relocating Section Providing Right to Hearing Before Forfeiture of Office

    Relocating from Section 2.08 to Section 2.07 of the Charter the right to a hearing for elected officials charged with an offense that could result in forfeiture of office.

    Question 6

    Clarifying and Supplementing the Powers and Duties of the Town Clerk

    Amending the Charter by clarifying the duties of the Town Clerk and adding certain responsibilities to the position.

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    Gary Darling

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  • Intuitive Machines calls IM-1 a successful moon-landing mission

    Intuitive Machines calls IM-1 a successful moon-landing mission

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    JOHNSON SPACE CENTER — Even though the IM-1 mission’s lunar lander Odysseus tipped over after landing on the moon last week, the company’s CEO called it a “successful mission” during a press conference on Wednesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • The lunar lander will be put to sleep during the lunar night
    • Once the sun comes back up on the moon, they hope to hear the lander again
    • RELATED ARTICLES:
    • Get more space coverage here  ▶

    During the press conference with Intuitive Machines and NASA officials, the Houston-based company revealed that its 14-foot-tall (4.3 meters) Nova-C class lunar lander is on its side, at about a 30-degree angle, after coming in for its soft landing on the moon.

    In a previous teleconference, co-founder and CEO of Intuitive Machines Steve Altemus said that one of its six legs dug into the lunar soil as it was coming in and it tipped over.

    On Wednesday, Altemus said that despite not landing upright as intended, all the payloads, including the six from NASA, are collecting and sending data back to the IM-1 team.

    “We have conducted a very successful mission at this point,” he said.

    Last week, Intuitive Machines made history by being the first private company to land on the moon with its IM-1 mission. It was the first time in more than 50 years that the United States was able to return to the moon. The last time was in 1972 during the Apollo 17 mission.

    The IM-1 mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program.   

    On Wednesday, Dr. Sue Lederer, CLPS project scientist at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, said that the mission lasted six days. She called Odysseus a “scrappy little guy.”

    She said during that time, all the scientific data that has been collected and archived will be used for future moon missions.

    NASA has a fleet of instruments that are designed to help to ensure the safe landing for the Artemis III mission and beyond, Lederer said as she answered Spectrum News’ question during the press conference.

    “All of the data that can be used for Artemis, will be used for Artemis,” she said.

    About the EagleCam

    In addition to data, the lunar lander’s cameras have transmitted photos back to Earth.

    Among the payloads, one of them is Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s EagleCam, which was originally meant to be deployed from the lunar lander during its descent, where the camera was going to land on the moon first and take the first photos of a spacecraft landing on the moon from a third-person perspective.

    However, a decision was made to not deploy the camera in order to protect the lander.

    “Our number one priority was to not interfere with landing operations. After group discussions with Intuitive Machines’ mission control, the team decided it would be best for both IM’s and our own mission success to remain powered down,” Andrew Ankeny, an aerospace engineer major and member of the EagleCam team, explained to Spectrum News.

    On Wednesday, Altemus praised the EagleCam team. He said on Wednesday morning, he said they reactivated the EagleCam, powered it up and ejected it 13 feet (4 meters) away from the vehicle.

    However, there is a connection issue with the camera and its Wi-Fi abilities, he said, adding that the EagleCam team is working to resolve.

    But he did call the EagleCam “a wild success” just ejecting itself alone and would “love” to have it for another mission.

    Later in the day, the EagleCam team posted on its Instagram page that the team had been working for days to resolve the issues, but “the technical complications ultimately resulted in an inability to capture images of the Odysseus lander.”

    The data that was collected will be analyzed and published in the near future, the team stated.

    Going to sleep

    Altemus said the IM-1 team will put Odysseus to sleep during the lunar night, which lasts about two Earth weeks. Once the lunar day comes back, the team plans to wake up Odysseus to see if it can get readings from the lunar lander itself and its payloads.

    “We will tuck Odie in for the cold night of the moon,” he said, adding that it is degrading in power.

    Batteries do not respond well and the electronics are not designed to handle the deep cold, about -150 degrees during a lunar night, but the solar panels will power the craft. And the IM-1 team plans to turn the lander back on.

    “Why not try… and see what happens,” Dr. Tim Crain, chief technology officer and co-founder of Intuitive Machines, said.

    Trying to land on the moon

    Both Altemus and Crain, also IM-1 mission chief, said that the data from the lunar lander’s systems gathered will be studied and implemented for the IM-2 mission, which is scheduled for later in 2024.

    Altemus explained why it was hard to land Odysseus on the moon. The Houston-based company’s Nova-C lunar lander was originally set to land at crater Malapert A, near the south pole of the moon.

    But due to an issue with Odysseus’ internal navigation system hours before the soft touchdown, the IM-1 team decided to put it in another orbit around the moon to fix the issue.

    What made it hard to land on the moon now, as opposed to during the Apollo missions all those decades ago, because of a few things, such as landing a brand-new style of vehicle in a different part of the moon.

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    Anthony Leone

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  • Toppled moon lander sends back more images, with only hours left until it dies

    Toppled moon lander sends back more images, with only hours left until it dies

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — A moon lander that ended up on its side managed to beam back more pictures, with only hours remaining before it dies.


    Intuitive Machines posted new photos of the moon’s unexplored south polar region Tuesday.

    The company’s lander, Odysseus, captured the shots last Thursday shortly before making the first U.S. touchdown on the moon in more than 50 years. Odysseus landed on its side, hampering communication and power generation.

    Once sunlight can no longer reach the lander’s solar panels, operations will end. Intuitive Machines expects that to happen sometime between Tuesday afternoon and early Wednesday.

    The mission, part of NASA’s effort to boost the lunar economy, was supposed to last until at least Thursday, when lunar nighttime sets in. NASA has six experiments on board.

    Intuitive Machines is the first private business to land a spacecraft on the moon without crashing. Another U.S. company launched its own lunar lander last month, but a fuel leak doomed the mission and the craft came crashing back to Earth.

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    Associated Press

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  • Explore Florida’s wildlife during FWC’s ‘Florida WildQuest 2024’ event

    Explore Florida’s wildlife during FWC’s ‘Florida WildQuest 2024’ event

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    FLORIDA — Adventure is out there! Explore the outdoors during the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s “Florida WildQuest 2024” event.

    This year’s event will take place in Florida’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) across the state from April 27 to May 5.

    Florida residents and visitors can use the GooseChase app to join a wild adventure to complete scavenger hunt missions and discover Florida’s wildlife.

    During the event, WildQuest players will have opportunities to explore Florida’s extensive WMA system and learn about its wildlife, habitats and recreational opportunities. Registered players can also qualify for a chance to win wilderness-inspired prizes.

    (Photo Courtesy: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)

    Follow these steps to adventure:

    1. Find It: Find your closest WMA with the WMA Recreation Finder Map.

    2. Charge Up: Make sure your phone is charged and the GooseChase app is installed. Not all areas have mobile coverage, but you’ll be able to take pictures for your scavenger hunt missions and submit them later. Visit FloridaWildQuest.com for instructions on how to join.

    3. Be Safe: Stay on marked roads and trails. Before you enter a trail, be sure it fits your skill level and the distance you’re prepared for.

    4. Pack Smart: It gets hot outside and there are no vending machines in the wilderness. Check the weather before you go. Pack water, sunscreen and snacks!

    5. Snap a Pic: Most WMAs have a kiosk at the main entrance with a welcome sign that includes a map and important reminders for visiting the area. When you see this sign, be sure to take a picture for reference. Grab a guide at the kiosk if one is available.

    (Photo Courtesy: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)

    Florida has one of the nation’s largest systems of state-managed wildlife lands, according to FWC. The WMA system includes more than 6 million acres managed primarily for wildlife conservation and nature-based public use.

    The FWC maintains, enhances and restores native natural habitats for the benefit of plant and animal populations as well as for the people of Florida.

    To learn more about Florida’s WMA system, visit MyFWC.com/WMAs. 

    (Photo Courtesy: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Here’s all of the ballot questions for Central Florida voters to decide

    Here’s all of the ballot questions for Central Florida voters to decide

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    FLORIDA — The 2024 presidential race is well underway, with several states already holding their primary elections to decide who will top the Republican and Democratic tickets in November. Floridians across the state will have a chance to make their voice heard on Tuesday, March 19. Many municipalities will hold their local elections, with some charter amendments and ballot questions thrown in. 


    Before that can happen, there are some important dates for voters in Central Florida to be aware of.

    Both Orange and Flagler counties will hold municipal elections in addition to the Presidential Preference Primary election for Republicans on March 19.

    Voters looking to vote by mail should make sure to get their applications in before Thursday, March 7.

    Residents of Central Florida looking to avoid potentially long lines at their polling places can take part in early voting, which will be open from March 9 through March 16. Voters in Orange and Osceola counties will be able to vote early on March 17 as well.

    Here are the municipal elections taking place in Orange County on March 19:

    Municipal Candidates / Amendments:

    • City of Apopka – (City Council Seats 3, 4) 
    • City of Eatonville – (Council Seats 4, 5 and 5 Charter questions)
    • City of Edgewood – (9 Charter questions)
    • City of Maitland – (1 question)
    • City of Ocoee – (City Comm. Dist. 4 and 13 Charter questions)
    • City of Winter Garden – (City Comm. Dist. 2, 3) 
    • City of Winter Park – (Mayor and City Comm. Seat 2) 
    • Town of Oakland – (Mayor) 

    Voters in Flagler County can vote for the City of Flagler Beach Mayor, and 1 City Commissioner.

    After the Presidential Preference Primary, there’s the statewide primary election, which will host other local offices across the state on Aug. 20. Voters will need to adjust or confirm their registration by July 22 in order to vote in that election.

    The General Election will take place on Nov. 5 this year, with a voter registration deadline of Oct. 7.

    Early voting dates for the primary and general elections have yet to be confirmed.

    Here is a full list of the proposed charter amendments or ballot questions, according to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office.

    OCOEE

    Question #1

    Amendment of § C-8, City of Ocoee Charter, to Liberally Construe the City’s Powers

    Section C-8 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City of Ocoee’s powers be liberally construed in favor of the city to effect their intended purposes.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #2

    Amendment of § C-8, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for the Exchange of Property

    Section C-8 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City’s enumerated powers shall include the right to acquire or dispose of property, including real property, by exchange.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #3

    Amendment of § C-11, City of Ocoee Charter, to Establish One (1) Year Residency Requirements

    Section C-11 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that candidates for Mayor shall reside in the City of Ocoee for at least one (1) year before qualifying as a candidate and to require candidates for City Commissioner to reside in the district they seek to represent for at least one (1) year before qualifying as a candidate; candidates shall provide such proof of residency as may be prescribed by ordinance.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #4

    Amendment of § C-11, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide Consent to a Background Check

    Section C-11 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that each candidate for Mayor and City Commissioner shall consent to a background check to verify the candidate’s qualifications to hold office; and no candidate shall be barred from running for office without notice, a hearing, and clear and convincing evidence that the candidate is not qualified to hold office.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #5

    Amendment of § C-16, City of Ocoee Charter, to Limit Salaries to Part-Time Compensation

    Section C-16 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the salaries of the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and Commissioners shall be commensurate with the part-time nature of the duties of the office.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #6

    Amendment of § C-17, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for Election of Successors

    Section C-17 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the successor to the office of Mayor or City Commissioner shall be elected at the next regular or general city election, if held within twelve (12) months of the vacancy.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #7

    Amendment of § C-18, City of Ocoee Charter, to Authorize Designation of an Accountant

    Section C-18 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to designate an accountant or accounting firm in accordance with the procedures set forth in Florida Statutes §

    218.391 annually or for a period not to exceed five (5) years.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #8

    Amendment of § C-21, City of Ocoee Charter, to Authorize Commencement of City Manager Residency

    Section C-21 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to reasonably extend the requirement for the City Manager to reside in the City of Ocoee within one (1) year of beginning employment upon the Commission’s unanimous approval.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #9

    Amendment of § C-28, City of Ocoee Charter, for Budget Approval of City Clerk’s Salary

    Section C-28 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to clarify that the City Manager shall determine the City Clerk’s salary, subject to budget approval by the City Commission.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #10

    Amendment of § C-45, City of Ocoee Charter, to Define “Regular,” “Special,” and “General City Elections”

    Section C-45 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to define “regular elections” as those held at regular intervals for the election of Mayor and City Commissioner, “special elections” as those held to fill a vacancy in the office of Mayor or City Commissioner, for a citizen initiative to approve of an ordinance, or a referendum to repeal an ordinance, and “general elections” as any other municipal election.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #11

    Amendment of § C-45, City of Ocoee Charter, to Provide for Swearing-In to Office

    Section C-45 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that any person elected to the office of Mayor or City Commissioner shall be sworn into office immediately prior to commencement of the next regularly scheduled City Commission meeting held after the Canvassing Board declares the election results.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #12

    Amendment of § C-49, City of Ocoee Charter, to Set Elections by Resolution or Ordinance

    Section C-49 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to authorize the City Commission to set the dates of elections and dates of qualifying periods for candidates by either resolution or ordinance.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    Question #13

    Amendment of § C-50, City of Ocoee Charter, to Appoint City Clerk to Canvassing Board

    Section C-50 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to appoint the City Clerk to the City of Ocoee’s election Canvassing Board in addition to two (2) citizens and two

    (2) citizen alternates appointed by the City Commission.

    Shall the above-described amendment be adopted?

    MAITLAND

    Question 1

    City of Maitland General Obligation Bonds for a New Public Library and Park Project

    Shall the City issue bonds to finance the construction and equipping of a new public library and improving its location at Quinn Strong Park in the principal amount not to exceed $14,000,000, bearing interest not exceeding the legal rate, maturing not later than thirty (30) years from the date of issuance, payable from ad valorem taxes to be levied in the City on all taxable property?

    EDGEWOOD

    Question 1

    Removal of Unnecessary Transition Schedule Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to delete the now unnecessary transition schedule used to phase in the adjustment to the current staggered three year terms for Council members?

    Question 2

    Mayoral Stipend Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to increase the maximum monthly stipend amount the City Council is authorized to approve for payment to a mayor from the current $1,000 to $3,000?

    Question 3

    Adoption of Emergency Ordinances Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to delete local provisions regarding emergency ordinances and to provide that emergency ordinances may be adopted in the manner set forth in Florida state law?

    Question 4

    Electronic Distribution of City Code Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to provide an option for electronic distribution of the City Code?

    Question 5

    Grammatical Correction Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to make non-substantive corrections in Article 4?

    Question 6

    Timing of Budget Message Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to change the timing of the Mayor’s annual budget message?

    Question 7

    Reserves Savings Cap Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to change terminology related to reserves allowed to be saved by the City to provide for a cap on “uncommitted reserves” rather than the current terminology used of “unrestricted reserves”?

    Question 8

    Procurement Threshold Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood Charter be amended to provide that for any procurement between $10,000 and $25,000, the City shall obtain at least three quotes and that for any procurement over $25,000, the City shall utilize a competitive bidding method?

    Question 9

    Resolution of Tie Votes in City Elections Amendment

    Shall the Edgewood City Charter be amended to provide that in the event of a tie in a city council election result, the winner shall be determined between the two tied candidates by a coin flip?

    EATONVILLE

    Question 1

    Providing a Defined Qualifying Period and Methods of Qualifying for Office

    Amending the Charter to provide a defined qualifying period for candidates for Mayor or Council and providing alternative methods of qualifying to run for office.

    Question 2

    Amending the Method for Confirming Mayoral Appointments to Avoid Deadlock

    Amending confirmation of Mayoral appointments providing interim appointees not confirmed by Council within 120 days, may continue to serve no more than 180 days, during which time the Mayor shall propose 3 candidates, one of which may be the interim appointee, for confirmation by Council. If no candidate is confirmed within the 180-day period, the Mayor may appoint a candidate from among the 3 who will fill the position on a permanent basis.

    Question 3

    Amending the Method for Selecting the Vice Mayor

    Amending the method for the selection of the Vice Mayor to provide for election by the Town Council.

    Question 4

    Allowing Council to Establish the Effective Date of Any Mayoral or Council Salary Increase

    Amending the Charter by allowing the Town Council to establish the effective date of any Mayoral or Council salary increases in the ordinance adopting such increases.

    Question 5

    Relocating Section Providing Right to Hearing Before Forfeiture of Office

    Relocating from Section 2.08 to Section 2.07 of the Charter the right to a hearing for elected officials charged with an offense that could result in forfeiture of office.

    Question 6

    Clarifying and Supplementing the Powers and Duties of the Town Clerk

    Amending the Charter by clarifying the duties of the Town Clerk and adding certain responsibilities to the position.

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    Gary Darling

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  • Important election deadlines for Florida’s upcoming Presidential Primary

    Important election deadlines for Florida’s upcoming Presidential Primary

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    The 2024 presidential race is well underway, with several states already holding their primary elections to decide who will top the Republican and Democratic tickets in November. Floridians across the state will have a chance to make their voice heard on Tuesday, March 19.


    Before that can happen, there are some important dates for voters in Central Florida to be aware of.

    In addition to the Presidential Preference Primary election for Republicans, both Orange and Flagler counties will hold municipal elections that day.

    Tuesday, Feb. 20, is the last day to register to vote or change your party affiliation ahead of the Presidential Preference Primaries.

    Voters looking to vote by mail should make sure to get their applications in before Thursday, March 7.

    Residents of Central Florida looking to avoid potentially long lines at their polling places can take part in early voting, which will be open from March 9 through March 16. Voters in Orange and Osceola counties will be able to vote early on March 17 as well.

    Here are the municipal elections taking place in Orange County on March 19:

    Municipal Candidates / Amendments:

    • City of Apopka – (City Council Seats 3, 4) 
    • City of Eatonville – (Council Seats 4, 5 and 5 Charter questions)
    • City of Edgewood – (9 Charter questions)
    • City of Maitland – (1 question)
    • City of Ocoee – (City Comm. Dist. 4 and 13 Charter questions)
    • City of Winter Garden – (City Comm. Dist. 2, 3) 
    • City of Winter Park – (Mayor and City Comm. Seat 2) 
    • Town of Oakland – (Mayor) 

    Voters in Flagler County can vote for the City of Flagler Beach Mayor, and 1 City Commissioner.

    After the Presidential Preference Primary, there’s the statewide primary election, which will host other local offices across the state on Aug. 20. Voters will need to adjust or confirm their registration by July 22 in order to vote in that election.

    The General Election will take place on Nov. 5 this year, with a voter registration deadline of Oct. 7.

    Early voting dates for the primary and general elections have yet to be confirmed.

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    Phillip Stucky

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  • SpaceX to launch top secret satellites on Valentine’s Day

    SpaceX to launch top secret satellites on Valentine’s Day

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE — While many were disappointed they could not kick off Valentine’s Day with the IM-1 launch, space lovers can still enjoy a SpaceX launch of top secret satellites.

    What You Need To Know

    • Not much is known about the USSF-124 mission
    • The launch is at 5:30 p.m. ET, Wednesday, Feb. 14
    • It will liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

    For the USSF-124 mission, SpaceX is planning to send up its Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated the company.

    The four-hour launch window opens at 5:30 p.m. ET, Wednesday, with a backup attempt set for the same time the following day, stated both SpaceX and Space Systems Command.

    For the Valentine’s Day launch, the 45th Weather Squadron gave about a 95% positive forecast. The only concern is the thick cloud layers rule.

    Going into the black

    The Falcon 9 first-stage booster used for this mission, named B1078, has six impressive missions.

    After the stage separation, the first-stage booster is expected to land at Landing Zone 2 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. That means people may expect some windows rattling from the sonic boom it will make when it comes in for the landing.

    About the mission

    Much is not known about the USSF-124 mission, which is for the U.S. Space Force. It will be sent to low-Earth orbit.

    “Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Assured Access to Space (AATS) launch team and its mission partners are in final preparations for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) of the U.S. Space Force (USSF)-124 mission …,” stated U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command in a press release emailed to the media. “A SpaceX Falcon 9 will launch two satellites for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and four satellites for the Space Development Agency (SDA) into Earth orbit.”

    SSC stated this is the eighth National Security Space Launch by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket since December 2018.

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    Anthony Leone

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  • SpaceX to launch top secret satellites on Valentine’s Day

    SpaceX to launch top secret satellites on Valentine’s Day

    [ad_1]

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE — While many were disappointed they could not kick off Valentine’s Day with the IM-1 launch, space lovers can still enjoy a SpaceX launch of top secret satellites.

    What You Need To Know

    • Not much is known about the USSF-124 mission
    • The launch is at 5:30 p.m. ET, Wednesday, Feb. 14
    • It will liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

    For the USSF-124 mission, SpaceX is planning to send up its Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated the company.

    The four-hour launch window opens at 5:30 p.m. ET, Wednesday, with a backup attempt set for the same time the following day, stated both SpaceX and Space Systems Command.

    For the Valentine’s Day launch, the 45th Weather Squadron gave about a 95% positive forecast. The only concern is the thick cloud layers rule.

    Going into the black

    The Falcon 9 first-stage booster used for this mission, named B1078, has six impressive missions.

    After the stage separation, the first-stage booster is expected to land at Landing Zone 2 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. That means people may expect some windows rattling from the sonic boom it will make when it comes in for the landing.

    About the mission

    Much is not known about the USSF-124 mission, which is for the U.S. Space Force. It will be sent to low-Earth orbit.

    “Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Assured Access to Space (AATS) launch team and its mission partners are in final preparations for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) of the U.S. Space Force (USSF)-124 mission …,” stated U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command in a press release emailed to the media. “A SpaceX Falcon 9 will launch two satellites for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and four satellites for the Space Development Agency (SDA) into Earth orbit.”

    SSC stated this is the eighth National Security Space Launch by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket since December 2018.

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    Anthony Leone

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  • SpaceX’s launch of Intuitive Machines’ IM-1 lunar mission on hold

    SpaceX’s launch of Intuitive Machines’ IM-1 lunar mission on hold

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    KENNEDY SPACE CENTER — There will be no Valentine’s Day treat for space lovers: A very early Wednesday morning SpaceX launch of Intuitive Machines’ IM-1 mission was scrubbed late Tuesday night.

    According to SpaceX, the attempt was called off due to “off-nominal methane temperatures prior to stepping into methane load.”

    What You Need To Know

    • SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will send Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lunar lander to the moon
    • The instantaneous launch is at Thursday, Feb. 15 at 1:05 a.m. ET
    • The IM-1 mission will leave Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center
    • Scroll down to learn more about the mission and the payloads going to the moon
    • RELATED coverage: Intuitive Machines CEO: Space and moon is the next commercial endeavor

    The mission, which is now scheduled to take place Thursday at 1:05 a.m. ET, might be the first time a private commercial company will land on the moon.

    SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will leave from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center, stated the company.

    For the early Thursday morning launch, the 45th Weather Squadron  has given a 90% chance of good liftoff conditions, with the only concern being the thick cloud layer rule. 

    Go here to learn about NASA’s launch weather criteria for the Falcon 9 rocket.

    A big history for a little booster

    The Falcon 9 first-stage booster, named B1060, is only 4 inches shy of 230 feet in height (70 meters), but it has an impressive 17 launches to its resume.

    After the stage separation, the rocket is expected to land on Landing Zone 1 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated SpaceX.

    That means a sonic boom may be heard for many miles away.

    About the IM-1 mission

    Intuitive Machines is hoping to be the first private commercial company to land on the moon with its lunar lander, the Nova-C.

    The IM-1 Nova C lunar lander is 14 feet (4.3 meters) tall and weighs 1,488 pounds (675 kilograms). And it is packed with small payloads, like experiments and equipment, to be delivered to crater Malapert A, near the south pole of the moon.

    These payloads are from NASA, private companies and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, as seen below in the graphic.

    NASA is predicting that the Nova-C lunar lander will land on the moon next week.

    “If launch occurs any time in the three-day window in February, the landing will take place on February 22. The lander is capable of operating for about 14 Earth days in sunlight,” the U.S. space agency stated.  

    The IM-1 mission was originally set to be launched on Friday, Jan. 12, but Intuitive Machines stated it had to make an adjustment due to a change in SpaceX’s launch schedule.

    Why space is the next big economic market

    In a previous interview with Spectrum News, co-founder and CEO of Intuitive Machines Steve Altemus said that space is an evolution of a commercial market and not only is there an interest, but a need for it.

    “Today, there are over a dozen landers being built, which is a new market, and because there were no lunar landers, there were no payloads or science instruments being commercially built for the moon. So, as we started to build our lunar program and offer services to fly commercial and civil equipment, instruments, and payload packages to the moon, the interest started,” Altemus stated.

    The Houston-based Intuitive Machines was selected for the IM-1 mission as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. The company received $77.5 million for the contract.

    The program allows NASA to work with various companies to deliver science, experiments and technology to Earth’s lunar sister.

    Altemus stated that while there have been failures in reaching the moon for both space agencies and companies (such as Astrobotic’s Peregrine that suffered a fuel anomaly and ended up crashing back down to Earth), but he sees them as the first steps to getting it right.

    “When we think about the moon and the chances of crashing on the surface of the Moon or on the way to the moon, I have to think about all of what has happened before us and how much success we create every day. Every day we move forward one step closer to pushing the boundaries of success of commercial flights to the moon and we are prepared,” Altemus explained.

    Watch the launch

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    Anthony Leone

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  • Popular Brevard wetlands to reopen after months of rehab

    Popular Brevard wetlands to reopen after months of rehab

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    VIERA, Fla. — A popular Brevard County preserve is reopening soon.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands has been closed to the public since June of last year, but it’s about to reopen

    • It’s been closed for the past seven months for a $2.7 million project to remove vegetative muck and overgrown cattails from four ponds right behind the public works plant

    • The reopening is set for March 4, but work will continue through June to replant vegetation

    The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands has been closed to the public since June of last year, but it’s about to open again, better than before.

    Locals know this county nature area as the “Viera Wetlands.”

    It’s been closed for the past seven months for a $2.7 million project to remove vegetative muck and overgrown cattails from four ponds right behind the public works plant.

    The goal is to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus from the ponds leading into the Four Mile Canal, then reaching into the St. John’s River.

    Access to the wetlands will be back open for pedestrians only who stroll or bike around the 200-acre site.

    Officials are calling this a “haircut” to improve visibility and water quality.

    Brad Thomas is an avid cyclist, who loves to put foot to pedal as often as he can. The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands was one of his favorite spots to log some bike time before it closed.

    “I come out here with my boy. We like to look at the gators and birds,” he said.

    Thomas is excited to bring his son to once again enjoy the serene setting.

    “We need it. They just keep building and building, so we need to hold on to areas like this,” he said. 

    The reopening was originally set for late February, but heavy rainfall over the past two months forced the delay. The area is still considered an active construction site, so no vehicular traffic is allowed.

    People who come in cars are asked to park in the marked area without blocking contractor equipment.

    The reopening is set for March 4, but work will continue through June to replant vegetation.

    It’s being paid for with federal dollars.

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    Greg Pallone

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  • Sonic boom felt across Central Florida as Ax-3 returned to Earth

    Sonic boom felt across Central Florida as Ax-3 returned to Earth

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE — For many in Florida who were under the flight path of SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft as it was returning Axiom Space’s Ax-3 crew home on Friday, the clouds prevented an amazing view, but they could not stop the sonic boom that was heard.

    What You Need To Know

    • Many Sunshine State residents and visitors heard the sound barrier being broken
    • Understanding how sonic booms are created
    • Scroll down to listen to a sonic boom of a Falcon 9 rocket booster
    • RELATED: Axiom Space’s Ax-3 crew is home in splashdown


    Most of the time, many residents of the Sunshine State can hear a sonic boom whenever a SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket’s first-stage booster comes in for a landing at a landing zone in Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.  

     

    But what made the Ax-3 mission so different is that the Dragon spacecraft had to cross the state to reach the coast off Daytona Beach for a splash down. That means Friday’s sonic boom was heard by more people than usual, which for many, was a rare treat.

    How sonic booms happen

    The speed of sound in the air is about 767 mph (1,234 kph). Or imagine going one mile in 4.69 seconds.

    But when an aircraft, or in this case a Dragon spacecraft, goes beyond the speed of sound, also known as the sound barrier, it creates the thunder-like sound of a sonic boom.

    “When an object moves faster than the speed of sound, or “supersoic,” air pressure waves combine to form a continuous shockwave behind the aircraft,” explained NASA.

    “Air reacts like a fluid to supersonic objects. As objects travel through the air, the air molecules are pushed aside with great force and this forms a shock wave much like a boat creates a bow wave. The bigger and heavier the aircraft, the more air it displaces,” NASA explained.

    The results of a sonic boom, besides making a loud sound, vary from rattled windows, car alarms going off, frightening pets or making journalists jump while trying to record a booster landing.

    Training for those speeds

    Either going up or down, astronauts and others have to train to deal with those speeds.

    To give an idea of how fast the Ax-3 crewmembers were going, they started at an orbital speed of about 17,500 mph (2,816 kph) and ended at 16 mph (25 kph) during splashdown.

    In a previous article, Steven Siceloff, the public affairs specialist at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, told Spectrum News that astronauts go through a lot of training to handle those speeds.

    “Handling higher G loads is a function of physical fitness and astronauts are very fit people. They train daily on the ISS and on Earth to maintain fitness,” he explained.



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    Anthony Leone

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  • Orlando celebrates Black History Month 2024

    Orlando celebrates Black History Month 2024

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    By

    Spectrum News Staff

    Orlando

    UPDATED 5:24 PM ET Feb. 07, 2024
    PUBLISHED 3:04 PM ET Feb. 01, 2024
    PUBLISHED 3:04 PM EST Feb. 01, 2024

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Giant Recreation World Breaks Record With $45,897 Donation to National Veterans Homeless Support

    Giant Recreation World Breaks Record With $45,897 Donation to National Veterans Homeless Support

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    WINTER GARDEN, Fla., January 30, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Giant Recreation World, a leading provider of RVs and camping essentials, is set to make history with the largest single donation ever presented to the National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS). The remarkable sum of $45,897 has been raised by the passionate members of the VIP Camping Club throughout the year, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to supporting veterans in need.

    The VIP Camping Club, comprised of avid camping enthusiasts, has been conducting fundraising efforts at their bi-monthly VIP Campouts and annual customer rallies. This year’s customer rally, held at the Camp Margaritaville RV Resort, saw an unprecedented turnout of over 600 attendees. The collective generosity of the club members has enabled Giant Recreation World to contribute an unparalleled amount to NVHS.

    “We are immensely proud of our VIP Camping Club members for their unwavering commitment to supporting our veterans,” said Mica Gratton, VIP Club Director at Giant Recreation World. “This donation to the National Veterans Homeless Support is a testament to the compassion and generosity of our community. It is an honor to be able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have served our country.”

    Caroline Milne and Tori Starr from the Camp Margaritaville Sales & Marketing Team will join Giant Recreation World in presenting the check to NVHS. Their contribution of $2,370, raised through community efforts, further emphasizes the collective dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of veterans.

    About National Veterans Homeless Support: National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 by George Taylor Sr. and friends who were passionate about helping homeless veterans in their community. The organization is now run by George Taylor Jr. and his wife Jennifer Taylor, who have since evolved its mission to eliminate homelessness among veterans in Central Florida by providing street outreach, housing assistance, and transitional housing facilities. NVHS has achieved a remarkable 90% reduction in the homeless veteran population in Brevard County from 1,800 in 2008 to less than 200 in 2023. 

    “We are grateful for the continued support of organizations like Giant Recreation World and the VIP Camping Club. Their dedication to our cause has a profound impact on the lives of veterans,” said George Taylor Jr., President of National Veterans Homeless Support.

    The presentation ceremony will take place at Giant Recreation World RV Dealership in Winter Garden, FL on 1/30/2024 at 11 am, providing an opportunity for media coverage and community members to witness the positive impact of these generous contributions.

    Source: Giant Recreation World

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  • Catching up with Floridians whose stories inspired us in 2023

    Catching up with Floridians whose stories inspired us in 2023

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    FLORIDA — As we reach the holiday season’s peak and look back at a year that brought happy times for many people but major struggles for even more, the stories of those who found the strength to overcome adversity often make the most inspiring impression.

    Spectrum News catches up with some of the incredible individuals who taught us all a little bit about the best of humanity in 2023.

    Storm devastation reveals strength of spirit

    When Category 4 Hurricane Idalia stormed Florida’s Big Bend, it sent destructive storm surge into the Tampa Bay area and left parts of Central Florida flooded.

    The floors of Beatrice Hall’s Rubonia home buckled and collapsed, but the great grandmother stood tall. She made fast friends with David Couzens, when he generously brought her a new refrigerator.

    Days later, when a fall landed Hall in the hospital for 60 days, Couzens and a friend got to work, making her home safe to live in once again.

    Some parts of hurricane recovery occur pretty rapidly, and areas that avoid a storm’s most destructive effects can sometimes slip from the headlines even fasterIn Orlo Vista, it didn’t take long for the waist-high flood waters to recede from Willie Wright Jr.’s family home on Hope Circle, but he’s been working to repair all the damage for more than a year.

    Help from neighbors and kindhearted strangers meant the world in the beginning. Now, Wright’s mission to move his father back into the home he built decades ago fuels his determination to complete the massive task at hand.

    Life’s obstacles provide unique perspectives

    At 15 years old, Jasmine Zipperer found herself in the foster care system. When she aged out and faced the prospect of figuring life out all alone, she found a place to call home — and a family to help her prepare for the opportunities and responsibilities of adulthood.

    It’s all because of a former NFL player, who was adopted by a loving family when he was just a week old. Jeff Faine says he always felt an obligation to share his blessings and give back. So he and his wife opened Faine House for 18-23-year-olds on the verge of homelessness.

    When James McCallum was born with a large, bulging birthmark on his neck and back, his parents didn’t know how it would affect him. But after three surgeries and numerous trips to his doctor in Chicago, the two-year-old continues to inspire with his simply effortless smiles.

    The painful process may not yet be over, but the McCallum family is certainly looking to the future. James’ mom, Kaitlyn, is pregnant.

    She shared the moment of concern they made their way through, wondering if their second child would face the same struggles as their first. Then, they realized — they would just have to follow James’ example.

    At this time last year, Janet Thompson had just undergone surgery for stage 1 pancreatic cancer and was scheduled to start chemotherapy right after Christmas. 

    The treatment took an expectedly harsher toll than she expected, but Thompson fought her way to ringing the cancer-free bell.

    With her follow-up scans since then all giving her a clean bill of health, she’s back in the holiday spirit at her home in Titusville and grateful for life’s simply joys — like gathering with family in the kitchen to decorate Christmas cookies.

    Culture fuels entrepreneurial purpose

    Floridians are from everywhere, and that natural diversity of culture has cooked up a wide range of culinary options in small towns and big cities across the state.

    An Orlando restaurant is serving up Filipino food that feeds a growing sense of community and is turning its small bungalow-style building into somewhat of a cultural center.

    Milosz Gasior doesn’t speak much — but he doesn’t have to. The 2023 Gibbs High School graduate has developed a remarkable talent for talking with 88 black and white keys that, his mother hopes, will open doors to a bright and successful future.

    Gasior has autism and is mostly non-verbal.

    With prospects for holding down a job after graduation unlikely to manifest, he was connected with a professional musician who has since gotten him several paid piano gigs. 

    Good people find cool ways to help

    Reasons for helping others vary as much as the ways people go about doing it.

    For Brian Farr, a family tragedy moved him to put smiles on the faces of some incredible children — and keep them safe.

    His daughter, Maddie, died three years ago. She had White-Sutton syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, that caused her many difficulties in life. But every Friday night, they would head to the pool for swimming lessons, loving every minute of it.

    Farr created a foundation in his daughter’s name to help special needs children learn swimming safety.

    Now, Maddie’s legacy and love of the water lives on through other kids.

    At 10-years-old, Greshaun Dabrezil has already made quite a name for himself.

    You can call him “Cooler Boy.” It’s a moniker he both relishes and counts on to continue his mission, which is as simple as it is successful.

    Dabrezil is a decorated gymnast and certainly understands the importance of hydration. So when he noticed the people who spend hot days on street corners, he decided to help.

    For a while now, he has been handing out free bottles of water and leaving coolers at bus stops around Orlando. Each one has a straightforward sign on the handle. And Dabrezil isn’t finished. He hopes to partner with Lynx to put coolers on buses, too. 

    Sports can facilitate healing

    On a sports field, the prospect of injury always lingers. But when an athlete gets badly hurt away from the game, sport can drive them down the road toward recovery. 

    Mona Rodriguez was a professional soccer player, and fitness has always been paramount. She was riding her motorcycle to the gym, when a driver making a turn didn’t see her. 

    Rodriguez woke up in the hospital with multiple major injuries — but her spirit never shattered.

    Now, she lives by a simple mantra, and she’s using soccer to regain her mobility.

    When a player suffers a personal loss, teammates often help heal the invisible wounds. 

    Bella Rodrigues was a flag football star at Robinson High School, where she helped lead the team to their 7th-straight championship her senior year. She did that while dealing with the loss of her father, who died of cancer during the season.

    The Knights, and the rest of the school, rallied around her.

    Now, even though she’s in college, Rodrigues loves to return and just enjoy a grueling workout with her family.

    Faith inspires grand transformations

    From barber to YouTube star, life looks a lot different for Travis Settineri these days.

    He spent 18 years cutting hair for a living, but decided to take a leap of faith. He put a longtime passion for filming to use and started a channel focused on spreading kindness around Plant City and Lakeland.

    A year-and-a-half later, he’s introducing his almost 4 million subscribers to the many different people he meets and helps with food, finances and shelter.

    The massive following has given him the financial freedom to expand and focus all his time on making a difference.

    When a group of teenage boys dove into Spring Bayou in January on a quest to retrieve the Epiphany cross, they continued a 118-year Tarpon Springs tradition. 

    George Stamas surfaced victorious, and he says, as promised by his Greek Orthodox faith, the cross brought him numerous blessings over the last year. 

    He led his high school football team to a 9-1 season, and his coach says he’s made a number of positive changes in his life. 

    Stamas’ family is no stranger to the Epiphany cross. His cousin retrieved it a few years back, and his great grandfather did the same 85 years go.

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    Curtis McCloud

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  • Everything to know about voting by mail in Florida

    Everything to know about voting by mail in Florida

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    It has long been the voting method of choice – and necessity – for out-of-state college students and military service members serving overseas.

    The 2022 Legislative session produced a law that changed how mail in ballots are requested and collected, making it so that voters who want a mail-in ballot have to request one each year. That means that now is the time to check to see if your vote-by-mail request is still standing. 


    Is there a difference between a vote-by-mail ballot and an absentee ballot?

    No. 

    Florida lawmakers in 2016 changed the terminology from “absentee” to “vote-by-mail” because all registered voters in the state are allowed to cast a ballot without showing up at their assigned polling location. Other states require an accepted excuse for being unable to vote in person.

    Will my standing vote-by-mail ballot request be honored in 2023?

    No, the Florida legislature passed a law that only allows people to make ballot requests for up to two years, not four. This means that some voters who have had standing vote-by-mail requests in prior election years will need to request their earlier than anticipated. 

    Voters can check their vote-by-mail status and other election information by checking with their local county supervisor of elections. 

    Can anyone vote by mail?

    Yes. Please see above.

    How do I request a mail-in ballot?

    There are four options:

    1. Fill out an online application
    2. Request one in writing
    3. Go to the elections office
    4. Call the elections office

    You can find the mailing address, email address, phone number and fax number for your county’s Supervisor of Elections by clicking this link.

    What is the deadline for requesting a vote-by-mail ballot?

    It’s 10 days before an election at 5 p.m. However, the U.S. Post Service is asking voters to make the request no later than 15 days prior to the election, to give you time to get the ballot and mail it back in. 

    There are exceptions and alternatives for military service members serving overseas and American citizens living in other countries. That information can be found here.

    What information do I need to request a mail-in ballot?

    • Name
    • Address
    • Date of birth
    • The voter’s Florida driver license, Florida identification card, or last four digits of the elector’s social security number, whichever may be verified in the supervisor’s records;
    • Signature (If the request is being made in writing)

    You should also already be registered to vote in Florida elections. Check your voter registration status.

    If someone is requesting a ballot on your behalf, they need to include the following information:

    • The requestor’s address
    • The requestor’s driver license number, state identification card, or the last four digits of the elector’s social security number (if available)
    • The requestor’s relationship to the voter
    • The requestor’s signature (if the request is written)

    Can someone else pick up my mail-in ballot?

    Yes, no earlier than 9 days before Election Day, and as long as that person is someone you have officially designated to pick up your ballot by filling out this form.

    Here’s what they will need:

    • Your address
    • Your driver’s license number, if you have one
    • Your signature
    • A written authorization from the voter, and they will have to sign an affidavit

    It’s important to note that Florida law prohibits anyone from picking up more than two vote-by-mail ballots for other people who are not their immediate family members.

    When do I have to send in my vote-by-mail ballot?

    Your county’s Supervisor of Elections must receive the ballot by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Because of the expected influx of ballots, the U.S. Post Office suggests mailing your ballot in at least one week before Election Day to make sure it gets delivered on time.

    “Customers who opt to vote through the U.S. Mail must understand their local jurisdiction’s requirements for timely submission of absentee ballots, including postmarking requirements,” USPS said in a statement released to Spectrum News Tuesday. “Voters must use First-Class Mail or an expedited level of service to return their completed ballots.”

    Is the mail the only way to send in a vote-by-mail ballot?

    No.

    You can drop it off at your county’s Supervisor of Elections office. Florida law also requires all counties to accept vote-by-mail ballots at early voting locations.

    Florida law recently changed how “drop boxes” are allowed to be used. These drop boxes are secured metal boxes where a voter cand turn in their ballot. Now, drop boxes can only be used at Supervisor of Election offices, can only be open during regular voting hours, and have to be personally monitored at all times by an election worker. 

    Do I have to put stamps on my mail-in ballot?

    That depends on where you live. Some counties send out vote-by-mail ballots with pre-paid return postage. Others don’t.

    Where can I see if my mail-in ballot was received?

    You can check the status of your mail-in ballot by providing your name and birthdate on the Florida Division of Elections website. Your county’s Supervisor of Elections will also be able to provide that information.

    When are vote-by-mail ballots counted?

    Mail-in ballots are usually counted before all the in-person ballots, despite a common myth that suggests otherwise. Those numbers are among the first results reported on election night.

    Can I change my vote on a mail-in ballot if I change my mind?

    No.

    Unlike other states, Florida will not allow you to change your vote after you send in your vote-by-mail ballot. However, if you make a mistake while you’re filling it out, the Supervisor of Elections will send you up to two replacement ballots. 

    If you decide not to submit your mail in ballot, bring it with you to your assigned polling place so that you can cancel your mail in ballot and complete a new ballot in person. 

    If the local Supervisor of Elections can confirm that they have not received a mail in ballot with your name, you can fill out a ballot in person at your polling location. 

    If the supervisor is unable to confirm that they have not received your mail in ballot, and you assert that you did not vote, you can vote using a provisional ballot. 

    What if my vote-by-mail ballot signature doesn’t match the one on file?

    You will be notified by the Supervisor of Elections. That’s why it’s so important to include your contact information.

    You must complete a “Vote-By Mail Ballot Cure Affidavit” and send it to your county’s Supervisor of Elections by 5 p.m. two days after Election Day. It’s the same process if you forgot to sign your ballot, and if you miss the deadline, your vote will not be counted.

    Everyone’s signature changes over time, so you can always send in a new voter registration form to make sure your signature is up to date and avoid any issues.

    Can I vote in person if I requested a mail-in ballot?

    Yes.

    Bring your vote-by-mail ballot with you to the polls. If the poll workers can’t confirm that your vote hasn’t already been counted, you will be allowed to vote on a provisional ballot.

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    Dale Greenstein

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  • Where to find last-minute gas

    Where to find last-minute gas

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    Many Floridians are preparing for Idalia, and soon many will be searching for gas as the storm gets closer.

    With the GasBuddy Outage Tracker, drivers can search for gas stations nearby, as well as filter by the following criteria:

    • Has Fuel & Power
    • Has No Power
    • Limited Fuel Options
    • Has No Fuel & Power

    Click/Tap on the image below to locate gas stations near you and check their status. For the best results, be sure to share you location. You can also track outages on your phone by downloading the GasBuddy app for Android or iOS.

    Screenshot of the GasBuddy Outage Tracker (Courtesy: GasBuddy.com)

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Beachfront Perch Offers Luxury Living Along Florida’s Atlantic Coast

    Beachfront Perch Offers Luxury Living Along Florida’s Atlantic Coast

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    Florida’s Melbourne Beach has been attracting out-of-towners since the late 1800s. Over the years, the barrier island town in coastal Brevard County has become a family-friendly bedroom community and vacation destination. One side of the community faces the Indian River Lagoon; the other, the Atlantic Ocean.

    MORE FROM FORBESHow They Closed It: Cutting A Gem Of A Deal On John’s IslandBy Neal Leitereg

    Taking full advantage of the panoramic views is this soaring contemporary listed at US $4.475 million, including furnishings. The beachfront home sits on more than an acre that includes 107 feet of waterfront.

    Set back from the street at the end of a long, winding driveway, the residence is fronted by a stone motor court and courtyard. A winding staircase along the outside of a central tower leads to the entry.

    MORE FROM FORBESEstate On Florida’s Vero Beach Barrier Island Is Long On PrivacyBy Lauren Beale

    Inside, the open-concept living space is surrounded by walls of windows that bring in natural light and look out on a raised wooden walkway that leads through lush vegetation to the beach. Sliding glass doors open to terrace space.

    The house was redesigned and reconstructed in 2007 and remodeled three years ago.

    MORE FROM FORBESFour Getaway Homes For All Forms Of LeisureBy Neal Leitereg

    The resulting kitchen is outfitted with pendant and recessed lighting, custom wood cabinetry and Thermador, Sub-Zero and U-Line appliances. A two-level island creates added food prep and dining space. The kitchen opens to a breakfast area and the formal dining room, which has windows on three sides.

    The horizon line is simply uninterrupted ocean from the upper-level bedrooms. The primary suite includes a sitting area, fireplace, expansive walk-in closet and an ocean-facing balcony for a total of five bedrooms and five bathrooms throughout the 5,237 square feet of living space.

    MORE FROM FORBESFor $18 Million, Sea Meets Sky At An Oceanfront Home In Florida’s Vero BeachBy Lauren Beale

    There’s a lower-level family room, office and three-car garage. Stairs and an elevator access the three levels.

    The free-form backyard swimming pool features a reef entry and a circular slide.

    MORE FROM FORBESLuxury Homes That Make A SplashBy Lisa Chamoff

    Eva McMillan of Dale Sorensen Real Estate is the listing agent for 8875 Highway A1A in Melbourne Beach.

    Attractions include beaches, parks, historic Melbourne Beach Pier and a sea turtle nesting site. A causeway connects the walkable and largely residential town to the mainland.

    MORE FROM FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES

    MORE FROM FORBESVilla Offers Tropical Tranquility On The Turks And Caicos IslandsBy Lauren BealeMORE FROM FORBESTwo-Family Brooklyn Townhouse Offers Income PossibilitiesBy Lauren BealeMORE FROM FORBES$8.5 Million Santa Fe Mansion Honors New Mexico’s Classic ArchitectureBy Lauren BealeMORE FROM FORBESBarron And Tessa Hilton Want To Throw A Gatsby-Esque Bash For Your EstateBy R. Daniel FosterMORE FROM FORBESFall Brings Flurry Of New Luxury Developments To Snowmass, ColoradoBy Spencer Elliott

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    Lauren Beale, Contributor

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