ReportWire

Tag: Orlando

  • Trump speaks to Republicans; DeSantis voices support for bill

    [ad_1]

    President Donald Trump speaks to Republican lawmakers about the upcoming elections, and Gov. Ron DeSantis throws his support behind a push to ban congressional stock trading. 


    President Donald Trump traveled the less than two miles from the White House to the newly re-branded Trump-Kennedy Center Tuesday to address House Republicans, days into the start of an election year that will see the party aim to keep its currently ultra-thin majority in the lower chamber this November.

    In a wide-ranging speech over nearly 90 minutes, the president touted what he views as some of his biggest wins in office as he approaches the one-year mark of his second term back in the White House. He touched on his far-reaching tariff agenda, his crime and immigration crackdowns in American cities and his fresh capture of the deposed Venezuelan leader, Nicolás Maduro – although he offered limited new details on his plans ahead for the Latin American country as questions loom about his pledge for the U.S. to “run” it in the interim. 

    With months to go until voters across the country fill out ballots once again, Trump commended House Republicans for what they accomplished with a small margin in the lower chamber last year.

    “This was not a big majority, but it’s a unified majority, and it’s people that know what it takes to make America great again,” he declared. 

    And he stressed the importance of the GOP keeping control of the House in the midterms, warning members that Democrats would try to impeach him if they take the majority. 

    “They’ll find a reason to impeach me,” Trump said. “I’ll get impeached.”

    Trump was previously impeached twice but acquitted in both cases. 

    November’s contest will mark the first of nationwide election since Trump returned to office in January with his Republican party in control of both chambers of Congress. Trump will be looking to avoid the fate often afforded to presidents in the first midterm election since their inauguration — voters offering support to the opposite party. The 2018 midterm election during Trump’s first term in office, which has become known as the “blue wave,” is one of the most notable examples. 

    The president also used his remarks Tuesday to urge Republican lawmakers to mandate a national voter ID law. States currently have different rules around identification required to vote.

    In the opening of his remarks, Trump mourned the death of California Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa announced just before his speech and mentioned Indiana Republican Rep. Jim Baird, who the president said Tuesday is recovering from a car crash. 

    DeSantis shows support for bill aimed at banning congressional trading

    Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says he stopped trading stocks when he was in Congress. And he’s now backing a bill that would outlaw anyone in Congress from trading stocks while they are serving.

    It’s a bill that DeSantis says will hold people in Congress accountable and keep voters in the know.

    Rep. Anna Paulina Luna is pushing the bill to stop members of Congress from trading stocks, arguing that they are benefiting from insider information.

    Luna said that on average, Congress members who trade stocks are getting a 600% return.

    DeSantis backed her bill during a stop in Clearwater on Tuesday and said he wants Florida to require federal candidates in the state to also say on their candidate forms if they plan to trade stocks if they get elected.

    “There’s been a lot of things that have led to this, but I think ultimately you know you do have an institution that just doesn’t do what the founding fathers envisioned,” he said. “It’s really distorted government, particularly on the spending side, particularly with having a big administrative state.”

    Luna said it is a bill that has been needed for a long time, and she believes those in office recognize what shift it will have in decision making.

    She is trying to make sure this gets a vote in Congress and has gotten support from members on both sides of the aisle.

    During Tuesday’s event, the governor also spoke about the importance of term limits for members of Congress.


    [ad_2]

    Ybeth Bruzual, Holly Gregory, Jason Delgado, Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • State education commissioner includes Bible verse in letter to families

    [ad_1]

    LAND O’LAKES, Fla. — Should a Bible verse be included in a letter from the state’s Department of Education?

    Some families say that it violates the separation of church and state, so they were surprised when they received a letter from Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas quoting Proverbs 22:6.

    What You Need To Know

    • In a letter thanking private and homeschool families, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas quoted Proverbs 22:6 from the Bible

    • Some families say that it’s a clear violation of separation between church and state, while others support the commissioner

    • The state’s DOE has not responded to our requests for comment on the letter that was sent prior to winter break

    • BELOW: Read the letter in full


    Denise Mestanza-Taylor received the email from the state’s education commissioner before winter break.

    “They were just talking about our rights as parents, and the freedoms we have as homeschoolers,” she said. “It listed some resources.”

    Addressed to “Florida’s parents,” the letter started by thanking private and homeschool families, which Mestanza-Taylor is. But she says when she got to the third paragraph, she said, “It listed a Bible verse, Proverbs 22:6 about guiding our children on the right path. I’m paraphrasing, but it just struck me as odd to see this Bible verse in a letter from the DOE.”

    Mestanza-Taylor says her family is Christian, but she firmly believes in secular education.

    On the other side, Tampa Bay Christian Homeschool Families disagreed, saying the following in a statement from Misty Sosa.

    “It is refreshing to see a public official acknowledge parents’ God-given rights and responsibilities regarding the education and raising of children. I would submit that excluding Christianity from the public is not a neutral position,” Sosa said. “It is, in fact, an argument in favor of a secular religion. All humans worship. Some worship God; some worship man. All worship.”

    “It puts one religion above all. Yes, as a Christian, I understand that we are to minister to others, but how would someone feel if it was a scripture from the Quran that was in a letter,” said Mestanza-Taylor.

    She says that while the Bible does have its place in her home, it doesn’t have a place in state education.

    Spectrum News reached out to the State’s Department of Education multiple times for a statement on the letter that included the Bible verse. It has not responded to any of our requests.

    [ad_2]

    Fallon Silcox

    Source link

  • Florida, UCF land new quarterbacks in portal; former USF star heads to Auburn

    [ad_1]

    FLORIDA — Florida and Auburn have new quarterbacks to pair with new head coaches, and UCF has added a passer from the 2025-26 College Football Playoff for 2026.

    What You Need To Know

    • Alonza Barnett III, who led James Madison to the College Football Playoff, will play for UCF coach Scott Frost in 2026

    • Former Georgia Tech quarterback Aaron Philo is transferring to Florida

    • Gators running back Jaden Baugh also has signed a new contract to stay with Florida

    • Ex-USF quarterback Byrum Brown will join former Bulls coach Alex Golesh at Auburn next season

    Alonza Barnett III, who led James Madison into the 2025-26 College Football Playoff and was named Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year, will join Scott Frost’s Knights team in 2026. Barnett threw for 2,806 yards with 23 passing touchdowns while adding 589 yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground and led the Dukes to the Sun Belt championship this past season. Through his redshirt junior season, he notched 5,433 career passing yards with 49 touchdowns and rushed for 1,075 yards and 23 touchdowns.

    UCF’s starting quarterback for most of last season, Tayven Jackson, entered the transfer portal.

    Georgia Tech’s Aaron Philo announced his commitment to the Gators on Tuesday and will follow former Yellow Jackets offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner from Atlanta to Gainesville. Philo is expected to compete with redshirt freshman Tramell Jones Jr. for the starting job to replace departed DJ Lagway. Philo, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound junior, worked with Faulkner the past two seasons, serving as backup to Haynes King and appearing in eight games.

    The Gators got more good news from the transfer portal when they won a bidding war with Texas for running back Jadan Baugh, who rushed for 1,170 yards and caught 33 passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns at Florida last season. Other high-profile players returning to the Gators include top tackler Myles Graham, leading receiver Vernell Brown III and wide receiver Dallas Wilson.

    Philo joins former Tech teammate Bailey Stockton, a receiver and brother of Georgia quarterback Gunnar Stockton, and Penn State offensive lineman TJ Shanahan as key guys to pick Florida since the transfer portal opened Friday. The Gators are rebuilding under new coach Jon Sumrall.

    South Florida’s Byrum Brown, meanwhile, announced he is following former Bulls coach Alex Golesh to Auburn.

    Brown reposted on his Instagram account an On3 post announcing that the quarterback is making the move. Brown has thrown for 7,690 yards and 61 touchdowns while also rushing for 2,265 yards and 31 scores over the last four seasons at South Florida. 

    He completed 66.3% of his passes for 3,158 yards with 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season. He also rushed for 1,008 yards and 14 touchdowns on 175 carries while helping South Florida go 9-3 in the regular season.

    At UCF, other key players who are staying with the Knights are defensive tackles Horace Lockett Jr., who had entered the transfer portal, and RJ Jackson and defensive backs Braeden Marshall and Antione Jackson.

    In addition to Barnett, the transfer portal so far has brought the Knights running back Landen Chambers from Central Arkansas; offensive lineman Cooper Terpstra from Michigan State; offensive lineman Brady Wayburn from UConn, offensive lineman Tyler Gibson from Charlotte; offensive lineman Henry Tabansi from Buffalo; linebacker Tackett Curtis from Wisconsin; and defensive backs Kahmel Johnson from Wayne State and Caleb Flagg from Missouri.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum Sports Staff, Associated Press

    Source link

  • Man suffers burns after attempted arson at Haines City High School, police say

    [ad_1]

    HAINES CITY, Fla. — A man had to be hospitalized after an allegedly failed arson attempt at Haines City High School.

    According to Haines City Police Department officials, the man went into the school with a gas can that they believe was intended to start a fire inside the school.

    However, he suffered severe burns to his face and was airlifted to a nearby hospital.

    Officials did not initially state whether there was any damage to the school. Students are expected back in class on Wednesday.

    The incident has been turned over to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for investigation.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Proposed legislation could help autistic drivers in Florida interact with police

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Many people who have autism are still able to drive, including Eric Kaiser. However, stressful situations, like being pulled over by police, can make him uncomfortable.

    What You Need To Know

    • Blue Peace Envelopes provides information to officers about drivers with autism

    • It includes the driver’s license, emergency contacts, tells an officer if the driver is verbal or non-verbal, and more

    • Eric Kaiser said the envelope could make traffic stops less stressful for drivers like him


    He hopes the Florida Legislature passes a new law that will allow for the use of a Blue Peace Envelope.

    “It’s just to give that sense of calm in a tense situation,” he said.

    The envelope includes a copy of one’s license, emergency contacts, tells an officer if the driver is verbal or non-verbal and more.

    Kaiser said this lets an officer immediately know more about a person on the spectrum.

    “Some people just freeze up. They don’t talk. They can’t talk,” Kaiser said. “Some of us would rather just write stuff down.”

    Tampa Councilman Luis Viera said he met Kaiser through their Autism Awareness Program.

    After learning about the program from Kaiser and seeing similar programs in other states, he’s throwing his support behind the legislation.

    “If it’s not obvious to the person that you have a disability, it can lead to misunderstandings in all areas of life, including with law enforcement,” he said.

    The Tampa Police Department said it doesn’t comment on pending legislation.

    Still, they shared this statement:

    “We remain committed to a proactive approach in building strong, supportive partnerships with our community and providing officers with the tools and information necessary to interact safely and effectively with all residents.

    The Florida Legislature returns on Jan. 13.

    [ad_2]

    Matt Lackritz

    Source link

  • Police say scammers are targeting seniors in new gold-related scheme

    [ad_1]

    LARGO, Fla. — Largo police are warning the public of a new scam targeting seniors, as the Federal Bureau of Investigation says Floridians rank in the top third for most losses from internet-based crimes.

    What You Need To Know

    • Law enforcement is warning of a new gold conversion scam, where people exchange money for gold and send it off, thinking it’s safe

    • Most scam victims never get any of their money back

    • According to the FBI, Floridians lost $1.072 billion from scams in 2024, the third largest loss in the country


    The last few years have been difficult for Susan Lancaster, following the death of her partner in September 2023.

    “Then my son was diagnosed with dementia three days later, after he died. So it’s been a rough couple of years,” said Lancaster.

    In two separate scams, the Largo woman, who also serves as a full-time caregiver for her adult son, was left with $60 in her bank account.

    The once-retired former banker is now in the process of refinancing her home, just to stay afloat.

    “They took a lot. My credit score dropped about 84 points. So that wasn’t good, wasn’t fun,” said Lancaster.

    Lancaster said it all started with a simple message online, a fake receipt for a product she didn’t buy. She says they then quickly asked for control of her computer. She knows now not to do that, but at the time she thought she was talking to a legitimate person.

    Lancaster’s story is one of more than 50,000 complaints received by Florida law enforcement in 2024. Joel Quattlebaum of the Largo Police Department is on the front lines fighting these scams.

    “What we always tell folks is, ‘Once it’s gone, it’s gone.’ It is extraordinarily difficult to retrace and get back funds,” Quattlebaum said.

    Quattlebaum, who serves as LPD’s senior services officer, is now seeing a rise in a new scam centered on gold and an online notice that the victim wasn’t expecting.

    “It’s a notification that, essentially, their funds in the bank are no longer safe and that it needs to be sent to a federal banking institution,” said Quattlebaum.

    “Those folks end up, ultimately, taking out what we’ve seen as tens of thousands of dollars in real money, and then they’ll go and purchase gold in the idea that they’re going to have it secured in a federal banking installation,” he said.

    Most victims never see that money again. Quattlebaum says a courier, who sometimes doesn’t even know what they’re transporting, picks up the gold, taking it straight to the criminals and leaving no discernable trace.

    “Truly a perfect crime in a sense that you have a senior under the guise that they’re going to be securing their funds because their bank account has been compromised. However, what often times happens is, they watch a courier take their money and drive off with their entire life savings,” Quattlebaum said.

    Christopher Arbutine runs The Silver Queen in Largo. He’s seen customers come in trying to buy gold for this scam. So many he felt it appropriate to draft a waiver so his customers know that if they’re buying gold to send to a courier, it could be a scheme.

    “We’ve put a lot of safeguards in place since about a year-and-a-half ago,” said Arbutine. “We’re not talking $500, $5,000, we’re talking people that’re coming in trying to spend $50,000 to $100,000, sometimes $200,000. And when we see that right now, we’re very careful to make sure that we inform them that this could be a scam.”

    “I make enough to pay the bills, but not really enough to catch up and build a savings,” said Lancaster.

    Back at the Lancaster’s, money is tight in what was supposed to be her golden years. She said she’s also lost her sense of trust and remains more cautious about things that seem too good to be true.

    “They just keep talking. They’re professional, they’re good, they’re smart,” Lancaster said.

    Largo police say that often, seniors are targeted because they have money to be scammed out of. Law enforcement is reminding everyone to stay vigilant, especially online.

    [ad_2]

    Andy Cole

    Source link

  • Florida politicians react to U.S. operation in Venezuela

    [ad_1]

    FLORIDA — The United States captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and flew him out of the country in an extraordinary nighttime operation that was accompanied by a flurry of strikes following months of escalating Trump administration pressure on the oil-rich South American nation.

    It was not immediately clear who was running the country, and Maduro’s whereabouts were not immediately known. Trump announced the developments on Truth Social shortly after 4:30 a.m. ET. Under Venezuelan law the vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, would take power. There was no confirmation that had happened, though she did issue a statement after the strike.

    “We do not know the whereabouts of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores,” Rodriguez said. “We demand proof of life.”

    The White House did not immediately respond to queries on where Maduro and his wife were being flown to. Maduro was indicted in March 2020 on “narco-terrorism” conspiracy charges in the Southern District of New York.

    U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Maduro was indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges of “Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States.” Flores also has been indicted, Bondi said.

    Maduro last appeared on state television Friday while meeting with a delegation of Chinese officials in Caracas.

    For months, Trump had threatened that he could soon order strikes on targets on Venezuelan land following months of attacks on boats accused of carrying drugs. Maduro has decried the U.S. military operations as a thinly veiled effort to oust him from power.

    Florida Republicans, Democrats react

    Florida Republicans praised President Donald Trump on Saturday for what Trump said was a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela leading to the capture of its president. 

    Florida GOP:


    Speaker of the House Daniel Perez:
     


    State Sen. Danny Burgess:


    Rep. Jimmy Patronis: 
     


    Attorney General James Uthmeier:


    Rep. John Rutherford:

     

    Democratic lawmakers argued the strikes were not warranted, and that Trump lacked the authority to order them because he did not receive Congress’ approval. 

    Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried:


    Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz:


    Rep. Darren Soto:

     

    President Donald Trump provided an update on the operation at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach on Saturday, where he stated that the U.S. government would run the country at least temporarily and would tap Venezuelan’s vast oil reserves to sell “large amounts” to other countries.

    Watch the full news conference in the video player above.

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

    Source link

  • PSL members in Tampa protest U.S. strike against Venezuela

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Dozens of members with the Tampa Bay branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL) showed up on the steps of Tampa City Hall on Saturday to protest the U.S. strike in Venezuela.

    What You Need To Know

    • A protest was organized by the Tampa Bay branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation against the U.S. strike in Venezuela

    • It was held on the steps of Tampa City Hall on Saturday 

    • Organizers said the protest is part of an antiwar movement, which happened in 75 cities across the nation

    • Another protest will take place on Sunday in St. Petersburg


    “We know that this is not the end. This is the beginning of something that has the potential to get very, very ugly,” said organizer Aliabdel-Quadar. “We stand against US militarism in the region.”

    Organizers said the Tampa protest is part of an antiwar movement that happened in 75 cities across the nation.

    “We’re completely opposed to money being spent on bombing other countries,” said Aliabdel-Quadar. “When money needs to be spent here in this country, on health care, on education, on housing, on social programs.”

    Members carried signs that read, “NO BLOOD FOR OIL.” Monica “Franki” Diaz said they’re opposed to the U.S. taking control of the oil in Venezuela.

    “This is Venezuelan oil, and it should be for the Venezuelan people. The money should be used however they see fit,” she said. “I don’t think we should be controlling that in any way.”

    Member Jack Hummell said it should be up to the Venezuelan people to take their country back.

    “I think Venezuelans should be able to choose their own destiny or self-determination,” he said. “I think they have the freedom to choose for themselves. I don’t think it’s the U.S.’ business to choose for them.”

    Organizers said another protest will take place on Sunday in St. Petersburg.

    [ad_2]

    Josh Rojas

    Source link

  • Buccaneers beat the Panthers 16-14, stay alive in chase for NFC South title

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The winner of the NFC South will have a losing record and be crowned at home watching on television.

    Baker Mayfield threw a touchdown pass to Cade Otton, Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoided elimination with a sloppy 16-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers on a rain-soaked Saturday.

    The Buccaneers (8-9) need New Orleans (6-10) to beat or tie Atlanta (7-9) on Sunday to clinch a fifth straight NFC South title.

    If the Falcons win, the Panthers (8-9) will secure their first division championship since coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Cam Newton led them to a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance 10 years ago.

    The Buccaneers hold a two-team tiebreaker over the Panthers. But Carolina holds the three-team tiebreaker over Tampa Bay if Atlanta also finishes 8-9.

    Before the Buccaneers faced New Orleans in October, Mayfield accused the Saints of dirty play and said: “I do not like them.”

    Now, Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes hinge on the Saints beating the Falcons on the road on Sunday.

    The Buccaneers were 0-8 in games where Mayfield threw an interception before overcoming his ninth pick in the last eight games.

    After McLaughlin’s 38-yard field-goal try was blocked with just over five minutes remaining, Carolina got within 16-14 on Bryce Young’s 8-yard TD pass to Jalen Coker with 2:27 left.

    Mayfield tossed a short pass to Otton for a 20-yard gain on third-and-4 to extend Tampa Bay’s drive and run off more time. The Panthers got the ball back at their 3 with 18 seconds and no timeouts left. The game ended on a desperate series of laterals that resulted in a fumble.

    Mayfield connected with Otton on an 18-yard TD pass for a 7-0 lead as the Bucs scored a touchdown on their opening drive for the third straight game. It was Otton’s first TD of the season.

    Down 10-0, the Panthers turned Christian Rozeboom’s interception into a quick score. Rozeboom returned the pick 20 yards to Tampa Bay’s 19. Young then connected with Tommy Tremble on an 8-yard TD pass to cut it to 10-7.

    Jacob Parrish picked off Young late in the second half and the Buccaneers got a 36-yard field goal from McLaughlin to take a 13-7 halftime lead.

    McLaughlin kicked a 48-yard field goal early in the fourth to extend Tampa Bay’s lead.

    Carolina’s Ryan Fitzgerald missed a 54-yarder short on the opening drive of the third quarter.

    Mayfield completed his first six passes before misfiring on a cross-field, 13-yard toss to Payne Durham, who was wide open in the end zone. The Bucs settled for McLaughlin’s 29-yard field goal and a 10-0 lead.

    End of an era

    Gene Deckerhoff, the voice of the Buccaneers for 37 years on radio, is retiring after the season. Six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans and veteran linebacker Lavonte David could have played their last game with the Buccaneers and possibly in the NFL if they choose to retire.

    David was a second-round pick in 2012, made one Pro Bowl, was a first-team All-Pro once and second team All-Pro twice.

    Evans, the No. 7 overall pick in 2014, had a 1,000-yard season every year of his career until this one, when he broke his clavicle in October and missed several games.

    Injuries

    Panthers: DT Bobby Brown III (head) left the game to be evaluated for a concussion.

    Buccaneers: LB Anthony Walker (ankle) was injured on the opening kickoff. … CB Jamel Dean (shoulder) and OLB Anthony Nelson (knee) didn’t play. … DT Calijah Kancey (pectoral) was active for the first time since Week 2.

    Up next

    Panthers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    Buccaneers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    [ad_2]

    Associated Press

    Source link

  • Buccaneers beat the Panthers 16-14, stay alive in chase for NFC South title

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The winner of the NFC South will have a losing record and be crowned at home watching on television.

    Baker Mayfield threw a touchdown pass to Cade Otton, Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoided elimination with a sloppy 16-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers on a rain-soaked Saturday.

    The Buccaneers (8-9) need New Orleans (6-10) to beat or tie Atlanta (7-9) on Sunday to clinch a fifth straight NFC South title.

    If the Falcons win, the Panthers (8-9) will secure their first division championship since coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Cam Newton led them to a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance 10 years ago.

    The Buccaneers hold a two-team tiebreaker over the Panthers. But Carolina holds the three-team tiebreaker over Tampa Bay if Atlanta also finishes 8-9.

    Before the Buccaneers faced New Orleans in October, Mayfield accused the Saints of dirty play and said: “I do not like them.”

    Now, Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes hinge on the Saints beating the Falcons on the road on Sunday.

    The Buccaneers were 0-8 in games where Mayfield threw an interception before overcoming his ninth pick in the last eight games.

    After McLaughlin’s 38-yard field-goal try was blocked with just over five minutes remaining, Carolina got within 16-14 on Bryce Young’s 8-yard TD pass to Jalen Coker with 2:27 left.

    Mayfield tossed a short pass to Otton for a 20-yard gain on third-and-4 to extend Tampa Bay’s drive and run off more time. The Panthers got the ball back at their 3 with 18 seconds and no timeouts left. The game ended on a desperate series of laterals that resulted in a fumble.

    Mayfield connected with Otton on an 18-yard TD pass for a 7-0 lead as the Bucs scored a touchdown on their opening drive for the third straight game. It was Otton’s first TD of the season.

    Down 10-0, the Panthers turned Christian Rozeboom’s interception into a quick score. Rozeboom returned the pick 20 yards to Tampa Bay’s 19. Young then connected with Tommy Tremble on an 8-yard TD pass to cut it to 10-7.

    Jacob Parrish picked off Young late in the second half and the Buccaneers got a 36-yard field goal from McLaughlin to take a 13-7 halftime lead.

    McLaughlin kicked a 48-yard field goal early in the fourth to extend Tampa Bay’s lead.

    Carolina’s Ryan Fitzgerald missed a 54-yarder short on the opening drive of the third quarter.

    Mayfield completed his first six passes before misfiring on a cross-field, 13-yard toss to Payne Durham, who was wide open in the end zone. The Bucs settled for McLaughlin’s 29-yard field goal and a 10-0 lead.

    End of an era

    Gene Deckerhoff, the voice of the Buccaneers for 37 years on radio, is retiring after the season. Six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans and veteran linebacker Lavonte David could have played their last game with the Buccaneers and possibly in the NFL if they choose to retire.

    David was a second-round pick in 2012, made one Pro Bowl, was a first-team All-Pro once and second team All-Pro twice.

    Evans, the No. 7 overall pick in 2014, had a 1,000-yard season every year of his career until this one, when he broke his clavicle in October and missed several games.

    Injuries

    Panthers: DT Bobby Brown III (head) left the game to be evaluated for a concussion.

    Buccaneers: LB Anthony Walker (ankle) was injured on the opening kickoff. … CB Jamel Dean (shoulder) and OLB Anthony Nelson (knee) didn’t play. … DT Calijah Kancey (pectoral) was active for the first time since Week 2.

    Up next

    Panthers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    Buccaneers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    [ad_2]

    Associated Press

    Source link

  • SpaceX gets ready for Florida’s first launch of 2026

    [ad_1]

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — For those who can stay up late, you will be able to witness Florida’s first rocket launch for 2026. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Starlink 6-88 mission will be Florida’s first launch of 2026.

    SpaceX stated that its Falcon 9 rocket will be leaving Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40 early Sunday morning.

    It will be sending up the Starlink 6-88 mission.

    The launch window opens at midnight and will close at 3:17 a.m. ET.

    Find out more about the weather criteria for a Falcon 9 launch.

    The maiden launch

    This will be the first launch for B1101, the name of this Falcon 9’s first-stage booster.

    After the stage separation, it will land on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas, which will be out in the Atlantic Ocean.

    About the mission

    SpaceX owns the Starlink company, which will see its 29 satellites go to low-Earth orbit.

    Once deployed and in their orbit with the thousands of other Starlinks, they will provide internet service to many parts of the little round Earth.

    Dr. Jonathan McDowell, of Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, has been documenting Starlink satellites.

    Before this launch, McDowell recorded the following:

    • 9,395 are in orbit
    • 8,157 are in operational orbit

    [ad_2]

    Anthony Leone

    Source link

  • SpaceX gets ready for Florida’s first launch of 2026

    [ad_1]

    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — For those who can stay up late, you will be able to witness Florida’s first rocket launch for 2026. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Starlink 6-88 mission will be Florida’s first launch of 2026.

    SpaceX stated that its Falcon 9 rocket will be leaving Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40 early Sunday morning.

    It will be sending up the Starlink 6-88 mission.

    The launch window opens at midnight and will close at 3:17 a.m. ET.

    Find out more about the weather criteria for a Falcon 9 launch.

    The maiden launch

    This will be the first launch for B1101, the name of this Falcon 9’s first-stage booster.

    After the stage separation, it will land on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas, which will be out in the Atlantic Ocean.

    About the mission

    SpaceX owns the Starlink company, which will see its 29 satellites go to low-Earth orbit.

    Once deployed and in their orbit with the thousands of other Starlinks, they will provide internet service to many parts of the little round Earth.

    Dr. Jonathan McDowell, of Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, has been documenting Starlink satellites.

    Before this launch, McDowell recorded the following:

    • 9,395 are in orbit
    • 8,157 are in operational orbit

    [ad_2]

    Anthony Leone

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • Florida to ban items like candy and soft drinks from SNAP recipients

    [ad_1]

    ORLANDO, Fla. — At the request of several states across the country that filed Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food restriction waivers, the government is implementing one change set to impact millions, whether they like it or not.

    SNAP will now ban certain items from eligibility for purchase with benefits. It’s a costly change, according to the Associated Press — one that could initially cost grocery retailers in the United States $1.6 billion, and then $759 million annually if it continues.

    What You Need To Know

    • As of Jan. 1, five states implemented changes to what can be purchased with SNAP

    • Items like soft drinks, candy, prepared/processed desserts and energy drinks are now banned from being purchased with SNAP benefits in five states and will be banned in other states later in the year

    • The five states already implementing the changes are Iowa, Indiana, Utah, Nebraska and West Virginia. Florida will begin the ban on April 20, 2026

    • According to the USDA, the initiative is an effort to tackle obesity and “Make America Healthy again”


    Effective Jan. 1, five states began restricting SNAP recipients from purchasing items like soft drinks, energy drinks, candy and certain prepared foods.

    According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Iowa, Indiana, Nebraska, West Virginia and Utah are leading the way on the effort, but 18 additional states — including Florida — have also made the request to change their state SNAP agency’s restrictions. Florida is among more than 12 states that will see those changes implemented later this year.

    The changes are part of the government’s efforts to tackle the obesity epidemic and push to “Make America Healthy Again.” The SNAP food restrictions waiver allows state SNAP agencies a two-year period to experiment with changes that also could improve the efficiency of the program.

    According to the Healthy SNAP Florida website, the changes will be implemented in the state on April 20, and will promote healthy food options for families by prohibiting the purchase of products that are considered bad for consumers.

    The National Retail Federation, according to AP, predicts the change initially will result in longer lines at grocery stores as people adjust to what they can and cannot buy.

    It could also result in consequences for retailers if they do not comply. The USDA stated there will be a 90-day grace period at first, followed by a warning for the first offense. After that, retailers could lose their authorization to accept SNAP benefits and would have to reapply and undergo an administrative review.

    The changes apply to in-store purchases and grocery delivery services.

    [ad_2]

    Jaclyn Harold

    Source link

  • Animal cruelty database goes online, listing animal abuse offenders online

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — A statewide animal cruelty database is set to launch today. 

    It’s the newest phase of Dexter’s Law, named after a 4-year-old black and white bulldog mix. He was adopted from Pinellas County Animal Services and then, days later, found brutally killed in Fort De Soto Park.

    Dexter’s Law allows judges to increase penalties in animal cruelty cases. That part went into effect back in July. But today, the part of the law requiring the state to create and maintain a public database of abusers goes into effect. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The State of Florida is launching an animal cruelty database on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website today as part of Dexter’s Law

    • Dexter’s Law went into effect in July, allowing judges to increase penalties in animal cruelty cases
    • Those who have either been found guilty, pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty charges will be listed in the database
    • If your name is placed in the database, it will stay there for ten years- with re-offenders placed back in the databse for another ten years


    Those people who have either been found guilty, pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty charges will be listed in the database. This database will take public records and pull them onto the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website.

    It’s designed to help shelters and pet rescues that screen applicants before the adoption process is complete. It will also help pet owners looking to re-home their pets and even law enforcement and investigators as they work cases.

    Debbie Darino is the founder of Dexter’s Law along with Ponce Animal Foundation. She says she hopes it will add better protections for animals.

    “I’m hoping that the animal shelters, the rescues, law enforcement, animal control- they’re the first people on the front line when it comes to getting an animal adopt it out,” said Darino. “Then your average person wanting to rehome their pet, for whatever reason, they can just go look in the database.”

    And Darino says a few countys have a registry of animal abusers. But some of those, she says, were having issues keeping track of those on the list that may have moved to a different state. This database, she says, will help troubleshoot those issues.

    If your name is placed in the database, it will stay there for ten years. But if you re-offend at some point, your name will go back into that databse for another ten years.

    Darino says she’s also working on making Dexter’s Law a federal law.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Cast member injured after trying to stop massive rogue rubber ball during Indiana Jones show

    [ad_1]

    A cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando was injured after he was hit by the massive rubber ball used in the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular attraction. It happened when the man was attempting to stop the rubber “boulder” used in the show after it went off course and rolled toward the audience. Video shows the cast member putting his arms up to stop the ball, but he was slammed to the ground instead. Videos of the incident were shared widely on social media. “We’re focused on supporting our cast member, who is recovering,” a Disney spokesperson told WESH 2. “Safety is at the heart of what we do, and that element of the show will be modified as our safety team completes a review of what happened.”The boulder weighs 400 pounds and is made of rubber, the ride’s website says. >> This story will be updated as more information is released.

    ORLANDO, Fla. —

    A cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando was injured after he was hit by the massive rubber ball used in the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular attraction.

    It happened when the man was attempting to stop the rubber “boulder” used in the show after it went off course and rolled toward the audience.

    Video shows the cast member putting his arms up to stop the ball, but he was slammed to the ground instead. Videos of the incident were shared widely on social media.

    “We’re focused on supporting our cast member, who is recovering,” a Disney spokesperson told WESH 2. “Safety is at the heart of what we do, and that element of the show will be modified as our safety team completes a review of what happened.”

    The boulder weighs 400 pounds and is made of rubber, the ride’s website says.

    >> This story will be updated as more information is released.

    This content is imported from Twitter.
    You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Statewide database of convicted animal abusers coming to Florida

    [ad_1]

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Starting January 1, a new law will create Florida’s first public database of convicted animal abusers.

    The database will take public records and pull them into an easy-to-search database that will be available on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website.

    People who have been found guilty, or pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty charges, will be included in the database.

    What You Need To Know

    • Statewide database will be on FDLE’s website 
    • Database will go live by January 1 and be accessible to the public 
    • Florida one of few states to have similar database
    • Read more: CS/HB 255: Aggravated Animal Cruelty

    The new law – also called Dexter’s Law – is named after the dog that was adopted and then days later was brutally killed and left in Fort De Soto Park.

    The database will assist shelters and pet rescues that vet potential owners before the adoption process is complete. It will also assist pet owners looking to re-home their pets, and even law enforcement and investigators are they work cases.

    Fluff Animal Rescue in Pinellas Park travels around the state to shelters that are at capacity, to rescue and rehab animals and prepare them for adoption. Rescue Manager Angela Schab says they check each potential new owner using county records, but a statewide system would make a big difference to streamline the process.

    “This will give us a broader range to all counties and really help centralize that information,” she said. “If for example, if somebody moved into a new county… it’s possible we missed them in the registration so this will help centralize it and be really amazing for us.”

    There’s only a few states with similar statewide databases.

    The law also increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty convictions and in many cases increases jail time for offenders. This part of Dexter’s Law took effect on July 1.

    “I think in general people see a lot but don’t say something,” Schab said. “This is not only bringing awareness but helping a community feel heard and increase reporting.”

    State law outlines that the database should be accessible on FDLE’s website starting January 1.

    [ad_2]

    Angie Angers

    Source link