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  • University of Toledo sees 3 Rockets invited to NFL Scouting Combine

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    TOLEDO, Ohio — Three former Toledo football players are heading to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, the most of any Group of Six school and more than the other 12 Mid-American schools combined according to the university. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Defensive backs Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Avery Smith and Andre Fuller will head to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana for the combine

    • The university said the three invites are tied for the most Rockets ever selected to participate in the annual combine

    •  Since 2017, there have been 11 Toledo Rockets drafted

    Defensive backs Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Avery Smith and Andre Fuller will head to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana for the combine. Defensive backs will participate in media interviews on Feb. 26 and on-field workouts on Feb. 27. 

    The university said the three invites are tied for the most Rockets ever selected to participate in the annual combine. In 2017, Kareem Hunt, Treyvon Hester and Michael Roberts particpated and last year Toledo had two invites for defensive lineman Darius Alexander and safety Maxen Hook.

    Safety McNeil-Warren was named to three All-America teams last year: Second Team All-America by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and Sporting News and Third Team All-America by the Associated Press. He’s the fourth Rocket in Toledo’s 109-year history to be named to at least three major All-America teams and just the second in the past 54 years.

    He was also named the “Group of 6” Defensive Player of the Year by Pro Football Focus and to the PFF All-America Team. McNeil-Warren had 77 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions and five pass breakups in 2025. He also had three forced fumbles and two fumbles recovered.

    Cornerback Smith is a two-time Second-Team All-MAC selection with 100 tackles, three interceptions and 25 pass breakups over the past two seasons. He was the second in the MAC in passes defended in 2024 at 16 and third last season at 12. Smith saw his draft stock rise with his performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl on Jan. 27.

    Cornerback Fuller was a First-Team All-MAC honoree in 2025 had 49 tackles, one interception and 11 breakups. He missed the 2024 season because of an injury, but originally joined the Rockets in 2022 after starting off at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The university said Fuller also had a strong performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl.

    The three are hoping to be the latest selected for the NFL Draft. Since 2017, there have been 11 Toledo Rockets drafted.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • A Saturday Valentine’s Day means dip in business for florists

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday is a plus for many couples, it’s not a best-case scenario for local flower shops.

    Lu Cushing, owner of Janie Beane Florist in Clearwater, said that they typically see a 20% dip in sales on the years Valentine’s Day hits on a weekend when compared to the holiday hitting on a weekday.

    While a big money-maker as the historically biggest flower-buying holiday of the year, Cushing says Feb. 14 being on a Saturday has made a difference in buying habits.

    “Men love to send flowers to work, in a place where she can enjoy them and everyone can see them,” Cushing said. “This year, we’re getting some orders for earlier in the week because they want them to last all week at the office.”

    What You Need To Know

    •  Major flower suppliers in Columbia and Ecuador are subject to tariffs

    •  Price of flowers has increased as florists find ways to keep costs down for customers 

    •  Valentine’s Day falling on Saturday is not best case scenario for florists 

    • Owner of Janie Beane Florist estimates 20% dip in sales compared to weekday Valentines Day 


    Instead of making dozens of deliveries to offices on Valentine’s Day morning, Cushing says they’ve been scattered throughout the week. There’s also more home deliveries and pickups this year set for Valentine’s Day morning.

    Overall, Cushing says, this hasn’t been the busiest Valentine’s Day in history.

    That’s on par with what she’s seen over the last few decades when the holiday hits over a weekend. Cushing is now in her 54th year at Janie Beane Florist, a shop she opened alongside her late mother.

    The flower industry has had to adjust after the U.S. imposed tariffs on imported cut flowers. More than 80% of flowers found in the U.S. are from major suppliers in Ecuador and Columbia.

    “Flowers are up more … definitely,” Cushing said. “Vases are up more.”

    Vases that used to cost Cushing roughly $6 a piece are now between $8 to $9. Cushing said she’s shifted to finding more suppliers from North America to help curb the costs.

    “We’ve adjusted,” she said.

    Cushing said she offers options for those looking for flowers on budget by offering wrapped bouquets. She will wrap the stems of flowers in a sponge and a bag so a customer can take them home and use a vase they already have.

    “I shop small business as well so its important to me that I accommodate everybody,” she said.

    What has improved over the last year, Cushing said, is predictability. Before the tariffs went into effect, she said prices would bounce and make it difficult to quote large events like weddings. Now that prices have stabilized, the shop is taking less of a hit.

    After over five decades, they also relocated to Imperial Square in Clearwater, to a family-owned plaza in a smaller more budget friendly space.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Crew-12 will see first landing of Falcon 9 at Space Coast launch site

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — As NASA and SpaceX prepare for the Crew-12 mission, it will mark the first time a SpaceX rocket will land near its launch site in Florida.

    What You Need To Know

    • For the first time in Florida, a SpaceX rocket will return near the launch site
    • Learn more about the four astronauts as they will spend eight months on the ISS
    • They will be doing various experiments to learn more about the human body in space as well as moon-landing simulations

    During the early morning hours on Friday, NASA astronauts Cmdr. Jessica Meir and pilot Jack Hathaway, and mission specialists European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev will climb into the Falcon 9 to take off from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated both NASA and SpaceX.

    The instantaneous launch is set to take place at 5:15 a.m. ET.

    The 45th Weather Squadron is giving a 90% chance of favorable launch conditions, with the only concerns being the cumulus cloud rule and flight through precipitation.

    The forecast is an increase compared to the original 85% the squadron gave for Friday’s launch. 

    If the launch is a scrub, the next attempt will be Sunday, Feb. 15.

    Originally, the launch was set for Wednesday at 6:01 a.m. ET and then it was pushed to 5:38 a.m. ET, Thursday, until finally settling on Friday.

    The reason for this was due to the upper-level winds.

    The commute to the ISS and a historical landing

    This is the first crewed launch of 2026 and SpaceX’s Dragon capsule called Freedom is expected to be screaming at about 17,500 mph (28,164 kph) as it goes into the black of space.

    Freedom has had an impressive resume, having been used for four crewed missions.

    For the first-stage Falcon 9 rocket booster B1101, this will be its second mission. Its first mission was last month and it was the first launch of 2026: Starlink 6-88 mission.

    And it will be a long commute to work for them. The astronauts are expected to arrive at the International Space Station at around 3:15 p.m. ET on Valentine’s Day.

    And this is going to be a historical landing for the Sunshine State. Because the Crew-12 mission will have four people onboard, the first-stage booster must land at Landing Zone 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, which is adjacent to the launch pad at Space Launch Complex 40, as seen in this embedded Facebook post. Landing Zone 40 is at the top right of the photo. 

    This will be the first time a Falcon 9 rocket will land near its launch site in Florida. The first-stage boosters usually land on a droneship out in the Atlantic Ocean or at a landing zone on land but away from the launch site.

    However, SpaceX’s lease on Landing Zone 1 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station ended in July 2025.

    Back in May 2023, Space Launch Delta 45 issued a press release, stating, “SLC 13, currently Landing Zone 1 and 2, is also moving forward with Phantom Space and Vaya Space.”

    It means that the existing launch complex property agreements for landing operations were discontinued after the agreements expired.

    So, going forward, crewed SpaceX launches in Florida will see the first-stage rocket returning on a landing pad near the launch site.

    Understanding the Crew-12 mission

    The quartet is not going to the International Space Station empty-handed and checking out the views of Earth from space.

    They will be busy little beavers as they will be conducting medical experiments during their eight-month stay.

    “The experiments, led by NASA’s Human Research Program, include astronauts performing ultrasounds of their blood vessels to study altered circulation and completing simulated lunar landings to assess disorientation during gravitational transitions, among other tasks,” NASA stated.

    Another experiment is called Venous Flow, which will look at how time on the floating laboratory may increase the chance of astronauts developing blood clots.

    “In weightlessness, blood and other bodily fluids can move toward the head, potentially altering circulation. Any resulting blood clots could pose serious health risks, including strokes,” the U.S. space agency explained.

    For the experiment, the astronauts will undergo preflight and postflight MRIs, ultrasound scans, blood draws and blood pressure readings so scientists can compare the findings.

    But it is not all medical experiments. During the Manual Piloting study, certain crew members will be conducting simulated moon landings before, during and after this mission.

    “Designed to assess their piloting and decision-making skills, participants attempt to fly a virtual spacecraft toward the lunar South Pole region — the same area future Artemis crews plan to explore,” NASA explained.

    Other experiments will be conducted.

    Meet Crew-12

    Crew-12 will not have a traditional welcome

    Usually, a crewed mission will have a welcome party, where the previous mission (in this case, Crew-11), welcomes the new arrivals.

    Pleasantries and workload are exchanged during this transition.

    However, Crew-11 was cut short after one of its members suffered a medical episode.

    The crewmember has not been named and his or her medical issue was not disclosed.

    The event happened days before a planned spacewalk for NASA astronauts Cmdr. Zena Cardman and pilot Michael Fincke.

    NASA officials decided to cut the mission short and return Cardman, Fincke and mission specialists Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov to Earth.

    It was the first medical evacuation in the space station’s 25 years of full service. Originally, the mission was going to end in February.

    NASA officials stressed that the person was in stable condition and the four Crew-11 members appeared together in a press conference nearly a week after returning to Earth in a splashdown.

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  • Withlacoochee River could be headed toward record low water levels this summer

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    DUNNELLON, Fla. — Conservation leaders say lakes, rivers and the aquifer in Citrus County could be headed toward record low levels by this summer.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lakes, rivers and the aquifer in Citrus County could be headed toward record low levels by this summer

    • In last month’s hydrologic report, the Southwest Florida Water Management District says current water levels along the Withlacoochee River are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago
    • The dip in water levels could affect businesses along the river, such as Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak
    • SWFWMD officials say they do not expect conditions to improve until the summer with some much-needed rain in the wet season


    A recent hydrologic report from the Southwest Florida Water Management District shows that current water levels along the Withlacoochee River are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago because of the shortfall of rain we’re seeing across the region.

    “Our shop does both a trip on the Rainbow (River), a trip on the Withlacoochee, and I always tell people, no matter what, that the confluence is the coolest spot,” Rainbow River and Kayak owner Meriah Kirk said.

    Tucked away amongst the trees in Dunnellon, you’ll come across Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak — a business that thrives on both the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers. But recently, something about the water is being noticed.

    “Usually they’re at least, this time of year, about up to here,” Kirk said, pointing out water lines. “They’ve been about up to here, but now even further.”

    Kirk said staff and visitors alike have noticed a dip in the river’s level.

    “We have had some people comment on the flows being lower, being a little more stagnant,” she said. “And then with the way over in the marina, the way the cove is very stagnant, we’ve had some of our boat owners there kind of comment on that.”

    Following the river south into Pasco County, Mark Fulkerson with the Southwest Florida Water Management District surveys the river.

    “Over the past three decades, we’ve had four severe droughts that hit the Withlacoochee River,” Fulkerson said. “Just in those 30 years, it’s only happened four times. But this year, just looking at the data, we’re shaping into a fifth one of those.”

    In last month’s hydrologic report, Fulkerson noted water levels are 2 to 3 feet lower than a year ago. A big change for the river and surrounding ecosystem.

    “Last year at this time, we were three months after Milton,” Fulkerson said. “The water was probably 3 feet higher than it is now. So that’s kind of the difference between last year and this year. This year, we didn’t have a Milton. We didn’t have a big, real wet season to fill things up.”

    Just looking at the surrounding trees, you’ll notice water lines from Milton are still there, showing just how low the river has become. Fulkerson said he does not expect conditions to improve until the summer with some much-needed rain in the wet season.

    “Those summer rains are going to have to materialize a lot better than what we had last year, or we’re going to go into maybe an additional year of very low water levels.”

    As for Kirk and her business, she said she remains optimistic for rainfall — even with the business’ busiest time of year, spring break, just around the corner.

    “The springs are really important, so I think it’s important to make sure we’re taking care of them and making sure we’re doing as much as we can to take care of them,” Kirk said.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Cincinnati Parks begins habitat restoration project in French Park

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    CINCINNATI — While the worst of the cold seems to have passed, Cincinnati Parks is preparing for warmer weather as it kicks off a habitat restoration project in French Park. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The project will cover a 22-acre section of forested area

    • There are a number of invasive shrubs, vines and trees within the park including Amur honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Callery pear, Multiflora rose and English ivy

    • Specialized contractors will use two primary methods depending on conditions including equipment in heavily infested areas and utilizing hand-removal in areas will valuable native plants

    The project will cover a 22-acre section of forested area, removing invasive plant species through a donation from the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. Park officials said the project is set to be completed this May. 

    The 22-acre area where the restoration will take place. (Cincinnati Parks)

    There are a number of invasive shrubs, vines and trees within the park, including Amur honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Callery pear, Multiflora rose and English ivy, which crowd out native plants, reduce biodiversity and make it harder for native wildlife to thrive, according to the parks.

    By removing these plants, the habitat is improved for birds and wildlife while restoring healthy forest ecosystems

    Specialized contractors will use two primary methods depending on conditions including equipment in heavily infested areas and utilizing hand-removal in areas will valuable native plants. Cincinnati Parks said invasive shrubs and small trees will be mulched and native trees will be flagged for protection.

    Cut stumps will be treated to stop regrowth and crews will mark treated areas to protect soil, trails, water bodies and infrastructure. 

    Crews will work from Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with some possible weekend work. 

    Visitors should not be affected by the work, but may see crews, workers or temporary access limitations in some areas. Trails will remain open, but may have short-term closures if necessary for safety. There will be markers and signage for crews and their vehicles.

    The project will be monitored by Cincinnati Parks.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Foreclosure complaint filed against Elements on Third owner

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — People who live at the Elements on Third apartment complex say they’ve dealt with everything from maintenance issues to a possible water shut-off that could’ve resulted in them needing to find new places to live.

    That’s all within the past six months.

    Now, a foreclosure complaint has been filed against the complex’s owner. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Court records show a mortgage lender has filed a complaint for foreclosure against Lurin Real Estate Holdings for a loan it issued for the Elements on Third apartment complex

    • In the complaint, lawyers for BDS IV Mortgage Capital say Lurin failed to make payments starting in August and now owes more than $110 million

    • Lurin previously came under scrutiny when the city of St. Petersburg said a water shut-off at two properties, including Elements, was possible after Lurin failed to pay its utility bills

    • Read previous coverage here


    “Am I surprised? No, not really,” said Boshko Stanisic, an organizer with the St. Petersburg Tenants Union. “Lurin has been in kind of a financial fall for quite awhile.”

    The complaint was filed on Feb. 6 against Lurin Real Estate Holdings. Lawyers for BDS IV Mortgage Capital claim Lurin failed to make payments on a $110 million loan starting in August.

    “I didn’t know this was an ongoing thing. So, it’s a little concerning,” said Elements on Third resident Mitchell Williams.

    In the nearly three years Williams has lived at the complex, he’s seen it go through ups and downs.


    “I think they were running out of cash or something,” he said. “The property started to get a little bit dirty.”

    Then, the city said Lurin wasn’t paying its water bill at Elements and another of its properties, The Morgan Apartments.

    “It was a little scary when we were notified that we might be without water and might have to make other accommodations when we’d been paying for it the whole time,” Williams said. “So, that was definitely frustrating.”

    Williams said things started getting better in the fall, with maintenance and amenities being brought up to par. A city spokesperson also said back in August that Lurin paid its outstanding utility balance on the property. 

    Now, the BDS is seeking for force Lurin to pay the principal of the loan, plus interest and expenses, in full. 

    Stanisic said he’s working with residents at The Morgan as they navigate their own uncertain situation. He said tenants of a property facing foreclosure wouldn’t necessarily see immediate impacts.

    “A lot of it is just a change in ownership, a little bit of uncertainty,” he said. “A new owner, they might purchase the property, they might come in and change up the property manager.”

    Williams said residents haven’t been notified of the proceedings or any changes.

    “We’re happy at the moment, but hopefully nothing goes downhill to where we were a few months ago,” he said.

    A spokesperson for Lurin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 

    The complaint says BDS is requesting the court appoint a receiver for Elements on Third. It also asks that the property be sold at a public sale if Lurin doesn’t pay the debt.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Clearwater gets national attention as spring tourism season starts

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The spring tourism season has started in the Tampa area.

    From Major League Baseball to college softball, fans and athletes heading to the diamonds are bringing with them welcome exposure and an economic boost to the Bay area.

    While spring training for the MLB is already underway in Pinellas County for the Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays, Clearwater kicked off the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational softball tournament at Eddie C. Moore Complex Thursday.

    “Clearwater’s becoming the diamond capital of the county in the month of February,” said Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector. “Diamond sports, softball and baseball, so ESPN is broadcasting all 40 games on one of their various platforms.”

    Rector is proud the national attention shines the spotlight on Clearwater.

    “The road to the World Series starts in Clearwater,” said Brian Lowack, President and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.

    He says tickets to the tournament were sold through 47 states and three countries. Fans from across the country and around the world will cheer on 16 college softball teams — 10 of them ranked top 25 in the country.

    The Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational runs Feb. 12-15. (Spectrum News/Melissa Eichman)

    “Tens of thousands are going to be here over the course of the next four days. That’s thousands of hotel room nights and ultimately leading towards over $10 million in economic impact,” Lowack said of the impact.

    Lenny’s Restaurant feels that impact, reporting that business more than doubles this time of year. Loraine Bates has been a server at Lenny’s for more than 25 years and says the restaurant will be ready.

    “It’s means we’re going to be fully staffed,” said Bates. “It’s going to be like a Sunday every day of the week. We’re all hyped for it, we’re all looking for it.”

    Visitors working up an appetite while cheering on their favorite teams.

    “If you’re hungry or hung over, come to Lenny’s. We’ll feed you and we’ll take care of you,” said Bates.

    A host city taking care of fans while they take in Tampa Bay’s sunshine and beaches, whether it’s from the stands or while watching on TV.

    The Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational runs Feb. 12-15.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Pinellas County Meals on Wheels requests funding to keep seniors off waitlist

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Feeding America data shows that the number of food-insecure seniors is rising. 

    Based on its research, it says nine million seniors could be food insecure by 2050. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Neighborly Senior Care Network requested $1 million in funding in the 2026-27 state budget

    • The nonprofit said the dollars will keep seniors from returning to the waitlist

    • While the program is mostly funded by federal money, the organization said those dollars are uncertain

    • Neighborly served more than 500,000 meals in 2025


    Neighborly Senior Care Network’s Meals on Wheels in Pinellas County has a waitlist that it’s looking to shrink. 

    To help accomplish that, they are requesting additional state funding. 

    With the delivery bags loaded with food, volunteers are ready to feed hungry seniors.

    “I do it because it’s something that I feel like you should be doing to give back to the community,” said Tom Henkel, a volunteer.

    Henkel has been volunteering with Neighborly Senior Care Network’s Meals on Wheels for more than five years, and he goes the extra mile.

    “Everybody gets a banana on Tuesdays. They all look forward to it,” Henkel said.

    While the number of people he delivers to has fluctuated over the years, Henkel said the need is great.

    “I’ve seen a lot of folks who this is the only meal they get all day and how important it is for them to receive a meal that’s nutritionally balanced like these meals are,” Henkel said.

    Neighborly now serves 500,000+ meals every year. Last year’s total was a more than 30,000 increase from the number of meals provided in 2023.

    James White has been using Meals on Wheels for over a year. He said it’s a great financial help.

    “I’m disabled, so I don’t have to go out as much. I don’t have to do all the walking through the store and plus food today, it’s just real expensive,” said James White.

    Most of Neighborly’s clients are served through approximately $2.5 million in federal funding, but the nonprofit said that money is always uncertain. State funding helped in the last two fiscal years. The $750,000 from last year’s Florida’s budget, Neighborly said, helped get hundreds of people off its waitlist.

    “Right now, we’re lucky that it’s, it’s all-time low, about 600 people because of the state appropriation that we’ve received recently,” said Anita Cihlar, nutrition director, Neighborly Care Network.

    The nonprofit is requesting $1 million in funding in the 2026-27 state budget. Cihlar said the funding will prevent seniors from returning to the waitlist.

    “We want to just keep those people fed — it’s about almost 800 people. That’s a lot of seniors that could go without meals and go back on the waitlist if we didn’t get the funding again,” Cihlar said.

    Henkel, who sees the impact firsthand, said the money would help many seniors in the county that he enjoys serving every week.

    “I would highly recommend that if anybody is interested in volunteering, that they look up their local Meals on Wheels program and see how they can go about doing so,” Henkel said.

    The Older Americans Act, which provides about $2.5 million to Neighborly’s nutrition program, expired in 2024. 

    A reauthorization act was introduced in June 2025. It has had no movement through Congress yet.

    Neighborly said their OAA funding has remained steady even without its reauthorization.

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    Tyler O’Neill

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  • Pinellas Park officials approve golf carts ordinance

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas Park leaders have passed a new ordinance defining where you can and cannot drive golf carts.

    It was a unanimous vote at Tuesday’s city council meeting.

    The new guidelines allow you to drive golf carts on public streets and roads that are regulated by the city.

    They also ban golf carts on county and state roads, including a few of the area’s busiest highways.

    “No crossing on US-19,” said Mayor Sandra Bradbury, announcing that they are not allowed on certain roads. “No crossing on 66th Street which is a state road. No crossing on Park Boulevard, which is a state road. And no crossing on 49th Street, which is a county road.”

    There are some exceptions to that rule at legally approved crossing points.

    City council members say the new policy gives people more flexibility while keeping safety a priority.



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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Understanding the importance of climate norms

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    January and now February, parts of the country have faced extreme cold, prompting many meteorologists to note, “This air is much colder than average.”

    But how do we define “average,” and have those averages—or normals—changed over time?

    What You Need To Know

    • Climatologists use 30-year periods to establish baselines for “climate normals”

    • Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    • FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events


    Climatologists use 30-year periods to smooth out year-to-year variability and establish baselines, or “climate normals,” for comparison. For example, a high of 45 degrees in January in Missouri might be five degrees above the long-term average.

    Why 30 years?

    Jared Rennie, a physical scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Centers for Environmental Information, explains that the 30-year standard better reflects the changing climate and its influence on day-to-day weather. 

    He adds that NOAA also explores other base periods to meet user needs. In addition to the 1991–2020 normals released a few years ago, NOAA provides a 15-year baseline (2006–2020).

    These baselines are updated every ten years to capture ongoing changes—so data from 1980 to 2010 will differ from values averaged over 1990–2020.

    Differences in the data

    There are regional differences when comparing the most recent datasets (1980–2010 vs. 1990–2020). Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    Temperatures are generally warmer by 0.3 to 1.0°F across most areas, with the north-central U.S. slightly cooler.

    (Courtesy: NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information)

    More frequent 100-year events

    It seems like every few weeks we hear, “This is a once in a 100-year event.” Why are we seeing more of these “once in a lifetime events?”

    “Scientifically, this usually refers to the percent chance an event happens in any given year,” he stressed.

    Adding, “With extreme rainfall events, NOAA uses data to identify areas that exceeded the 1% or 0.1% chance of occurring in a given year (known as a 1-in-100-year event and 1-in-1000-year event, respectively).”

    He says that as for the frequency of these types of events, it depends on the specific event. “When it comes to large-scale events like droughts and heat, we have a better understanding of how these are trending over time.”

    “For example, the science tells us that temperatures are increasing, especially at nighttime, which is affecting the number of heat events in the 21st century.”

    Smaller-scale events, such as tornadoes and certain floods, are harder to quantify, and ongoing research aims to improve understanding.

    Weather vulnerability

    How do population densities impact weather vulnerability? “There is lots of research in the socioeconomic space that is attempting to identify not only populations affected by weather and climate extremes, but also their risk.”

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides resources to help communities assess risk from heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes, and tornadoes. More information can be found in the Dec. 2025 National Risk Index for Natural Hazards index.

    FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events, like heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes and tornadoes.

    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.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • Understanding the importance of climate norms

    [ad_1]

    January and now February, parts of the country have faced extreme cold, prompting many meteorologists to note, “This air is much colder than average.”

    But how do we define “average,” and have those averages—or normals—changed over time?

    What You Need To Know

    • Climatologists use 30-year periods to establish baselines for “climate normals”

    • Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    • FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events


    Climatologists use 30-year periods to smooth out year-to-year variability and establish baselines, or “climate normals,” for comparison. For example, a high of 45 degrees in January in Missouri might be five degrees above the long-term average.

    Why 30 years?

    Jared Rennie, a physical scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Centers for Environmental Information, explains that the 30-year standard better reflects the changing climate and its influence on day-to-day weather. 

    He adds that NOAA also explores other base periods to meet user needs. In addition to the 1991–2020 normals released a few years ago, NOAA provides a 15-year baseline (2006–2020).

    These baselines are updated every ten years to capture ongoing changes—so data from 1980 to 2010 will differ from values averaged over 1990–2020.

    Differences in the data

    There are regional differences when comparing the most recent datasets (1980–2010 vs. 1990–2020). Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    Temperatures are generally warmer by 0.3 to 1.0°F across most areas, with the north-central U.S. slightly cooler.

    (Courtesy: NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information)

    More frequent 100-year events

    It seems like every few weeks we hear, “This is a once in a 100-year event.” Why are we seeing more of these “once in a lifetime events?”

    “Scientifically, this usually refers to the percent chance an event happens in any given year,” he stressed.

    Adding, “With extreme rainfall events, NOAA uses data to identify areas that exceeded the 1% or 0.1% chance of occurring in a given year (known as a 1-in-100-year event and 1-in-1000-year event, respectively).”

    He says that as for the frequency of these types of events, it depends on the specific event. “When it comes to large-scale events like droughts and heat, we have a better understanding of how these are trending over time.”

    “For example, the science tells us that temperatures are increasing, especially at nighttime, which is affecting the number of heat events in the 21st century.”

    Smaller-scale events, such as tornadoes and certain floods, are harder to quantify, and ongoing research aims to improve understanding.

    Weather vulnerability

    How do population densities impact weather vulnerability? “There is lots of research in the socioeconomic space that is attempting to identify not only populations affected by weather and climate extremes, but also their risk.”

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides resources to help communities assess risk from heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes, and tornadoes. More information can be found in the Dec. 2025 National Risk Index for Natural Hazards index.

    FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events, like heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes and tornadoes.

    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.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • Understanding the importance of climate norms

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    January and now February, parts of the country have faced extreme cold, prompting many meteorologists to note, “This air is much colder than average.”

    But how do we define “average,” and have those averages—or normals—changed over time?

    What You Need To Know

    • Climatologists use 30-year periods to establish baselines for “climate normals”

    • Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    • FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events


    Climatologists use 30-year periods to smooth out year-to-year variability and establish baselines, or “climate normals,” for comparison. For example, a high of 45 degrees in January in Missouri might be five degrees above the long-term average.

    Why 30 years?

    Jared Rennie, a physical scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Centers for Environmental Information, explains that the 30-year standard better reflects the changing climate and its influence on day-to-day weather. 

    He adds that NOAA also explores other base periods to meet user needs. In addition to the 1991–2020 normals released a few years ago, NOAA provides a 15-year baseline (2006–2020).

    These baselines are updated every ten years to capture ongoing changes—so data from 1980 to 2010 will differ from values averaged over 1990–2020.

    Differences in the data

    There are regional differences when comparing the most recent datasets (1980–2010 vs. 1990–2020). Annual precipitation has increased 5–10% in the central and eastern U.S. and decreased 5–10% in the Southwest.

    Temperatures are generally warmer by 0.3 to 1.0°F across most areas, with the north-central U.S. slightly cooler.

    (Courtesy: NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information)

    More frequent 100-year events

    It seems like every few weeks we hear, “This is a once in a 100-year event.” Why are we seeing more of these “once in a lifetime events?”

    “Scientifically, this usually refers to the percent chance an event happens in any given year,” he stressed.

    Adding, “With extreme rainfall events, NOAA uses data to identify areas that exceeded the 1% or 0.1% chance of occurring in a given year (known as a 1-in-100-year event and 1-in-1000-year event, respectively).”

    He says that as for the frequency of these types of events, it depends on the specific event. “When it comes to large-scale events like droughts and heat, we have a better understanding of how these are trending over time.”

    “For example, the science tells us that temperatures are increasing, especially at nighttime, which is affecting the number of heat events in the 21st century.”

    Smaller-scale events, such as tornadoes and certain floods, are harder to quantify, and ongoing research aims to improve understanding.

    Weather vulnerability

    How do population densities impact weather vulnerability? “There is lots of research in the socioeconomic space that is attempting to identify not only populations affected by weather and climate extremes, but also their risk.”

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides resources to help communities assess risk from heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes, and tornadoes. More information can be found in the Dec. 2025 National Risk Index for Natural Hazards index.

    FEMA is working to provide information for communities most at risk from weather events, like heat waves, cold outbreaks, hurricanes and tornadoes.

    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.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • FC Cincinnati unveils ‘The Seven Hills’ kit ahead season opener

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    CINCINNATI — FC Cincinnati’s newest kits pays ode to the city’s history. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The team unveiled “The Seven Hills” kit on Wednesday just before the Major League Soccer season starts in 10 days

    • The term “Seven Hills” goes far back in the city’s history, going all the way back to the 1800s

    • The kit replaces the Canvas Kit from the past two seasons

    The team unveiled “The Seven Hills” kit on Wednesday just before the Major League Soccer season starts in 10 days. 

    The term “Seven Hills” goes far back in the city’s history, going all the way back to the 1800s. At the time, the city recognized the seven hills as: 

    • Mount Adams
    • Walnut Hills
    • Mount Auburn
    • Vine Street hill
    • College Hill
    • Fairmount
    • Price Hill (formerly known as Mount Harrison)

    “The popular origin of Cincinnati’s ‘seven hills’ stems from the 1881 book “History of Cincinnati, Ohio” by Henry A. Ford, A.M. and Mrs. Kate B. Ford, who reflected that the hills of Cincinnati formed naturally beautiful amphitheaters and created a ‘splendid panorama of the city below,’ which nowhere else in the nation could rival in beauty,” wrote Carter Chapley for FC Cincinnati. “The official interpretation of the names of the seven hills have been debated over the years, but the sentiment remains the same – the communities that make up the city’s peaks and valleys are as much part of Cincinnati as the geology they are founded on.”

    The kit replaces the Canvas Kit from the past two seasons. It’ll be worn as the secondary uniform along with the primary Orange and Blue Legacy Kit, which was worn last season. 

    “The Seven Hills” kit is unique, as the white and orange combination is a first for the team.

    It’ll be worn during the season opener at TQL Stadium on Saturday, Feb. 21 against Atlanta United. “The Seven Hills” kit is also available to buy on FCCGo.com and at the FCC Team Stores.

    Fans can purchase their Seven Hills Kit online at FCCGo.com or by visiting the Over-The-Rhine Team Store (1433 Vine Street) and the TQL Stadium Team Store (NE corner of the stadium; 1501 Central Parkway) which will be open for special hours Wednesday through Saturday.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Classes canceled in New Port Richey due to brush fire smoke

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – Lingering smoke from a brush fire in the Starkey Road area has canceled classes in the New Port Richey area.

    Pasco County Emergency Management advised that smoke has not cleared and continues to linger from the Starkey Preserve area near River Ridge High and Middle schools.

    What You Need To Know

    • Classes at two New Port Richey schools canceled due to lingering smoke from nearby brush fire 
    • Smoke has not cleared from classroom buildings as quickly as anticipated

    • Brush fire is 100 percent contained as of Tuesday night; crews said smoke may linger

    • Pasco County Schools

    The Florida Forest Service responded to two fires in that area on Tuesday. The 45-acre brush fire in the Starkey/New Port Richey area was 100 percent contained as of Tuesday night, but crews said smoke may linger today. 


    River Ridge school officials posted this Wednesday morning: 

    As we continue to assess the smoke conditions in our area this morning, we believe it is necessary to cancel school today to ensure the safety of our students and staff.

    The smoke has not cleared from classroom buildings as quickly as anticipated. After evaluating the conditions on campus, we determined that canceling school is the safest decision. All afterschool activities and events are canceled as well.

    At this time, we anticipate that school will resume as normal tomorrow and will provide any updates if conditions change.

    We understand that this may create inconvenience for families, and we appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we prioritize the health and safety of our school community.

    Thank you for your continued partnership.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Pasco County voters may be asked to extend school tax

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    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — In November, Pasco County voters may have a decision to make: Continue paying a school tax referendum, or let it expire. 

    In 2022, Pasco voters approved a referendum to support school employee salaries, but it expires in June 2027. The school board voted last week to ask taxpayers for a renewal.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco school board voted last week to ask taxpayers for a renewal of a school tax referendum 

    • The tax money is used to supplement pay for both instructional and non-instructional positions, including bus drivers, teachers, custodians, and other school support staff

    • Superintendent John Legg the referendum is a needed source of income that helps the school district keep up with other districts

    • What is millage? One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. It’s how the taxing authorities calculate your property tax. Want to know more about millage rates? Visit the Pinellas County Tax Collector website.


    The tax money is used to supplement pay for both instructional and non-instructional positions, including bus drivers, teachers, custodians, and other school support staff.

    Without it, Superintendent Dr. John Legg said it’ll be tough for Pasco to compete with neighboring districts, which have referendums.

    “What this referendum does is it continues the pay we’ve been doing the last several years,” Legg said.

    Legg said since voters approved the initial tax referendum in 2022, classroom vacancies decreased by nearly 83%, and without it, “If the voters say no to this, it would mean a drastic cut in our teachers’ pay. 

    “It would drop our teacher pay by 12% on average.”

    The Pasco County School Board is seeking a renewal of its one mill property tax. 

    If passed, nothing would really change for Pasco County homeowners; they would continue paying the same tax, which Dr. Legg says is $300 per year for the average homeowner.

    A Pasco school bus driver and teacher, both in their professions for over 18 years, said both they’ve personally noticed positive changes since receiving the referendum.

    “The morale of faculty members has increased,” said James Washington, a Pasco County teacher. “The idea that we’ve got a community that supports us, there was a lot of vitriol in the news for months and months and months four years ago, and now it’s starting to swell in the opposite direction where people validate what teachers are again.”

    Bur driver Mary Ann Brini said the referendum has made a difference.

    “It’s very important to keep new staff moving in,” Brini said. “If we don’t have this, in my personal opinion, I don’t know what will happen down the line.”

    Critics of the referendum say teachers and school staff shouldn’t have to rely on voters to maintain their raises. 

    Michelle Mandarin, a parent who hosts an education podcast, said teachers need sustainability in their salaries.

    “We knew it was coming,” said Mandarin, who also is running for the District 5 school board seat. “But we did warn the board that it’s not a sustainable way to increase the pay of our teachers. We really feel like there is a way we can restructure the budget and put it into the core budget.”

    Meanwhile, Legg said he is confident Pasco County voters will continue supporting education. 

    “The people of Pasco County value education and believe that education is important and essential for our thriving economy so I’m confident that our voters will re-affirm what they’ve already said.”

    The next step is for the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners to vote on whether to put this on November’s ballot. Legg said he plans on meeting with them and he doesn’t expect any issues. 

    The vote may happen as soon as March.

    The referendum adds from around $3,000 to $5,500 per year for staff, depending on their position.

    Hillsborough and Pinellas County schools both have referendums that voters approved in recent years.

    Polk County voters will be deciding on a school tax referendum in November. 

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • The Deuces: Where Black community thrived, barred from other parts of St. Pete

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Before the end of segregation, there were two St. Petes: a white one and a Black one. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Segregation and Jim Crow laws restricted where the Black community could go in St. Pete 

    • The Black community created a mostly self-contained community around 22nd Street South 

    •  It offered houses, businesses, schools, healthcare and entertainment

    • Groups now strive to preserve the history of that area 


    Laws restricted Black residents from going to certain portions of the city except for work, limiting them to designated areas and neighborhoods.

    The most famous of those neighborhoods is the one centered around 22nd Street South, often called “The Deuces.”

    “It was more than a street. It was an ecosystem. It was our ecosystem,” said Latorra Bowles, executive director of Deuces Live. “It was the only place African Americans thrived.”

    It was also a self-contained area that tried to cover all facets of life.

    Housing

    The neighborhood offered housing options for African Americans, though early housing was built without formal planning. In 1941, the Jordan Park Housing Complex opened. It incorporated 446 apartments, the state’s largest public housing endeavor to that time.

    “He knew African Americans needed decent and affordable housing,” said Basha Jordan Jr., whose grandfather, Elder Jordan Sr., donated the land for the project. The housing complex is named in Jordan’s honor.

    Businesses

    At its peak, more than 100 businesses lined 22nd Street South and some of the streets that ran parallel and perpendicular.

    “Everything we need is in the corridor,” Bowles said. “You have your small businesses, you have your restaurants, you have your hotels, you have your clubs.”

    Churches

    Numerous churches lined the streets in the neighborhood, especially along 9th Avenue South, which intersected with 22nd Street South. The city notes that in 1939, 19 of the city’s 123 churches were located in the 22nd Street neighborhood.

    Schools

    Jordan Park Elementary opened in 1925, a segregated school located on 9th Avenue South. Gibbs High School, the first all-Black high school in St. Pete, opened in 1927.

    Healthcare

    Mercy Hospital was established in 1923, one of the few healthcare institutions that accepted Black patients during the segregation era. Jim Crow laws precluded some hospitals from treating Black people, while prejudice stood in the way as well.

    Entertainment

    The Royal Theater opened in 1948, one of just two theaters that African Americans could attend in St. Pete.

    Down the street, the Manhattan Casino Hall had launched in 1925. It was the focal point of entertainment, socializing, and music in the neighborhood. It was even a well-known stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of performance venues safe for African Americans to play during the segregation era.

    “This was a place where African Americans could come, feel at peace, feel human, in the midst of segregation and racism that was running rampant in the city,” Jordan said, sitting underneath a statue of his grandfather that stands on 22nd Street South.

    Deuces Live is attempting to “preserve, promote and revitalize” this corridor, preserving its history while promoting a rich future.

    “It’s extremely important to preserve the history of this area because if we don’t tell the story, it will be rewritten or untold,” Bowles said. “If we don’t tell our story, no one will.”

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    Jeff Butera

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  • Artists highlighting representation this Black History Month

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — When it comes to public art, the Tampa Bay area is no stranger to mural-covered walls and, at one time, mural-covered streets.

    In 2020, new artists emerged with painting things like the Black Lives Matter street mural in St. Pete and similar murals in Tampa.

    A number of those artists were Black artists who say representation was crucial during a time of racial unrest in this country and that representation is just as important now.

    For artist Jade Jackson, all she sees is color when she thinks of what her art brings to the world. For her, representation plays a big role in her work.

    “It’s not something abstract or nature-based. I like painting women and women of color. A lot of my artwork and paintings I’ve done and sold, they’re usually Black,” Jackson said. “I’m really into, like, the sci-fi fantasy anime world, and I love redoing things sometimes in a way where it shows us. And so I think that representation is important in regards to younger people seeing us.”

    Jackson said she applied that same intentional approach in 2020 when she was asked to paint three words that mean so much to her. “Black Lives Matter. So, I had the S. So Black Lives, I had the “S” in the middle for lives,” she said.

    The project in front of the Woodson African American Museum in St. Pete was her first mural.

    “I was like, ‘Let me do something that comes natural for me,’ and so I approached it with joy and excitement and curiosity. I was, ‘Like, let me paint something I enjoy,’ and I thought if people see that and feel inspired, that’s great,” she said.

    Two years later she painted over the Black Lives Matter mural and helped paint the Black History Matters street mural. Then, in 2025, she watched as it was painted over following a directive from the Florida Department of Transportation, citing safety hazards and restrictions against ideological or political markings on roadways.

    The move sparked an emotional response from a lot of people, but Jackson said she was more worried about the broader picture.

    “I care more about what they’re doing to us than them painting over the mural,” she said.

    A popular street mural in Tampa was also inspired by the racial reckoning in America back in 2020. Mark Anthony, along with his son, was one of the artists there that day.

    “I felt some type of way with it, but it was also just, I think, the camaraderie of the artists and now seeing those artists from that period how they’ve grown,” Anthony said. “Shout out to that day. I mean it was a great moment to see community come together all at once. So, to me, it was an amazing experience.”

    It’s an experience that now lives on through photos and memories because it was also painted over after FDOT directives.

    Jackson believes the message in the murals belongs in public view.

    “I think we can still have a place for it, and I think it is a strong reminder. We have things that remind us of the Holocaust and 9/11, things that are important, and Black history is a part of this country and this culture and important to all of us,” she said.

    Libraries, city hall and the courthouse are just some of her suggestions for a new mural to replace the street art. And she’s hoping someone is listening.

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    Saundra Weathers

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  • Pasco County Schools planning to create first K-8 campus in East Pasco

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    DADE CITY, Fla. — Pasco County School officials are looking at creating a new K-8 school campus.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County School officials are looking to combine Pasco Elementary and Pasco Middle to create a new K-8 school campus

    • The district hinted at the possibility in December when the school board named Gretchen Rudolph-Fladd as the half-time principal of both campuses
    • Unlike other K-8 mergers in the district, those with the district say this move is not related to efficient use of space but rather for academic reasons
    • The school board could vote on the proposal as early as next week during a meeting on Feb. 17


    This would combine Pasco Elementary School and neighboring Pasco Middle School into one school, creating the first K-8 school in East Pasco County.

    Employees at both schools first learned of the proposal in January. The district hinted at the possibility in December when the school board named Gretchen Rudolph-Fladd as the half-time principal of both campuses. If approved, she would become the principal of the K-8 school.

    Unlike other K-8 mergers in the district, those with the district say this move is not related to efficient use of space, but rather for academic reasons.

    Superintendent John Legg says ongoing behavior and course performance concerns at Pasco Middle are a motivating factor. District data shows the school as having one of the highest levels of student absents of all 20 schools with middle school students.

    “It gives them better opportunities in the upper grade divisions,” said Legg. “So what we see is we see it as a win-win for parents, a win for students, and really a win for faculty as well in order to help those students achieve their goals.”

    Meanwhile, parents Spectrum Bay News 9 spoke to seem pretty split on the proposal. Some say they would welcome the change, while others see it negatively impacting their child’s education and would rather explore other methods of teaching.

    “As long as my kids are getting the education that they need and deserve, that’s really all I’m concerned about,” said Eric Rondo, a parent of two students at Pasco Middle School.

    “The thoughts scream louder that there’s definitely reasons why enrollment is dropping and that, in and of itself, makes me want to explore options that might be better for my kids,” said parent Amanda Bookman.

    Legg says there will be no changes in enrollment or service boundaries. He says the proposal will allow for more flexibility and innovative programs at that campus.

    The school board could vote on the proposal as early as next week during a meeting on Feb. 17.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival celebrates African American healthy living

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — It starts with a lemon, and then some liquid gold.

    And tea brewing teen queens Stevie and Stephanie Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Sweet Tea are ready to open their doors for a festival of celebration.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival is located at Carter G. Woodson African American Museum at 2240 9th Ave. S., in St Pete

    • The 2026 festival is scheduled for Saturday, February 14th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, during Presidents’ Day weekend and Black History Month.

    • Now in its ninth year, the free, family-friendly festival brings together over 18,000 attendees to celebrate Black culture, history, health equity, and community empowerment.

    • Free collard green plants, entertainment, marketplace, music, healthy collard recipes, line-dancing class to Motown, soul music

    The 13-year-olds are prepping for Tampa Bay’s Collard Green Festival, in cooalition with a program for young entrepreneurs.

    “We needed to figure out a way that our youth in this community who have businesses can benefit from this foot traffic,” said festival co-founder Samantha Harris.

    The Fitzpatrick 8th graders are in their second year at the festival’s young business owner’s program.

    Since 2018, The Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival works as a community driven nonprofit to transform lives with good food, joy, movement, and culture. 

    Through student programs, school partnerships, and an annual city-defining festival, the Collard Green Festival addresses the root causes of poor health, limited opportunities, and social isolation, for one practical, sustainable change at a time.

    We meet people where they are and walk with them toward better health, stronger connections, and a higher quality of life, not just for a day, but for a lifetime.

    “I enjoy doing this because I get to meet new people and I get to experience different things,” said Stevie Fitpatrick.

    They St. Pete duo are completing a 4-week online course studying topics like customer service and budgets. They earned food safety handling certificates and got a stipend.

    The twins encouraged other young people to start thinking of starting a business, or supporting their community. 

    “You could do anything you put your mind to, you just have to have the right mindset, and plan everything out, and budget,” Stephanie Fitzpatrick said.

    Also look for an official taste tester — like a younger brother maybe? The girls have 8-year-old Steve. 

    “This is the best sweet tea I ever tasted in my life,” said Steve, after taking one sip.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • ULA prepares to launch U.S. Space Force tracking satellites

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — Early Thursday morning, United Launch Alliance (ULA) will be sending up satellites for the U.S. Space Force.

    What You Need To Know

    • ULA’s Vulcan rocket will be sending up USSF-87 mission from Space Launch Complex-41 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

    ULA’s Vulcan rocket will be sending up USSF-87 mission from Space Launch Complex-41 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated the company, which is a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

    The two-hour launch window opens at 3:30 a.m. ET to 5:30 a.m. ET, which means that ULA has during that time period to launch the mission.

    Unlike SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, the Vulcan rocket is not reusable, and it will not land on a droneship or landing pad.

    The Vulcan is the booster, while the Centaur is the second stage.

    The 45th Weather Squadron has given a 95% chance of good liftoff conditions, with the only worries being the cumulus cloud rule.

    About the mission

    Not much is known about the mission, except that the USSF-87 mission will see numerous Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program satellites go to a geosynchronous orbit, so about more than 22,000 miles (35,406 kilometers) above the little round Earth.

    “The USSF-87 mission will carry a variety of payloads that will promote the advancement of space technology to benefit future programs of record. The primary payload is the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) space system, built by Northrop Grumman; a capability supporting the U.S. Space Command space surveillance operations as a high-performance, dedicated Space Surveillance Network sensor. They provide ‘neighborhood watch’ services in the geostationary Earth arena, improving flight safety for all spacefaring nations operating in that orbit,” the U.S. Space Force’s Space System Command explained in a press release.

    Watch the launch

    [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFw6xy2zGCo[/embed]

    [ad_2] Anthony Leone
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