Tag: Whats Happening

$460 Million U.S. Army Contract for Multi-Mode Aviation Radio Set Awarded

A $460 million U.S. Army contract for a multi-mode aviation radio set was awarded.

The U.S. Army has awarded BAE Systems a five-year indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with a ceiling value of $460 million for the AN/ARC-231/A Multi-mode Aviation Radio Set (MARS). This award consists of hardware components, repair services, engineering and logistic support, and development for rotary-wing aircraft.

The MARS system is designed to perform in the most demanding environments to provide warfighters with secure mission-critical information when they need it most.

In today’s complex and contested battlefields, operators rely on fast and accurate communications to inform key decisions in the field. MARS’ programmability reduces the time to field evolving communication needs, special mission modifications, and performance enhancements. The software communications architecture and software-defined radio design enable fielding new capabilities as software-only upgrades.

“We provide communication solutions with scalable software deployment in support of tactical missions where speed and relevance of information matter most,” said Amber Dolan, director of Adaptive Communications and Sensing at BAE Systems. “This airborne radio design enables the U.S. Army to upgrade their rotary-wing fleet with the latest secure waveform that can be tailored for each mission for years to come.”

The AN/ARC-231A MARS system is comprised of the RT-1987 radio with associated ancillaries, including amplifiers and mounting bases. It is the newest generation of multi-band, multi-mission, airborne communications system with Type 1 Crypto Modernization. It’s focused on configurability and allows for flexible integration and mission deployment options that ensure interoperability for joint force operations. Available through foreign military sales, it provides internationally compliant air traffic control communications and full range of mandatory U.S. and NATO capabilities.

The radios will be developed and produced at BAE Systems’ facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with engineering support in Largo, Florida.

With more than 100,000 radios deployed globally, BAE Systems’ battle-proven communications products offer nearly double the reliability of legacy products. The company’s compact radio sets also offer multi-band, secure anti-jam voice, data imagery transmission, and network-capable communications.

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October 19, 2024
Florida Realtors Relief Fund Offers $500K to Help Hurricane Victims
The Florida Realtors Relief Fund is offering $500,000 to help hurricane victims.

The National Association of Realtors^‘ Realtors Relief Foundation announced a $500,000 grant to Florida Realtors to help Floridians with housing issues resulting from Hurricanes Milton and Helene.

“So many people are struggling from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Milton and Helene in communities across our state,” says 2024 Florida Realtors^® President Gia Arvin, broker-owner with Matchmaker Realty in Gainesville. “The crucial first step is often dealing with housing needs. Thanks to the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) Realtors Relief Foundation and their generous donation to help Florida residents in the wake of these hurricanes, people can find the housing assistance they need to rebuild their homes and their lives.”

As a result, Florida Realtors is handling two charitable relief programs: its Disaster Relief Fund that focuses on housing challenges within the Realtor family after a natural disaster, and these grants through NAR’s Realtors Relief Foundation funding that offers money to any Floridian impacted by the storms and facing-housing related needs. Check online for more information or to apply for RFF assistance.

Qualifications for NAR-funded assistance through the Realtors Relief Foundation:
- Monthly mortgage expense for the primary residence that was damaged during Hurricane Helene and/or Hurricane Milton in September/October 2024; or
- Rental cost due to displacement from the primary residence resulting from Hurricane Helene and/or Hurricane Milton in September/October 2024.
- Submit only one application if you were impacted by Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.
- Maximum grant amount per household is $1,000.
RRF applications for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton close April 2, 2025. Recipients must be full-time Florida residents and citizens of the United States, or legally admitted for residence in the U.S.

This assistance is for housing relief only; other expenses including second mortgages (home equity lines or loans), clothing, appliances, equipment, and vehicles (purchase, rental or repair and/or mileage) are ineligible for reimbursement under this program.

Type of assistance offered to qualified applicants:
- Monthly mortgage expense for the primary residence that was damaged during Hurricane Helene and/or Hurricane Milton in September/October 2024; or
- Rental cost due to displacement from the primary residence resulting from Hurricane Helene and/or Hurricane Milton in September/October 2024. Relief assistance is limited to a maximum of $1,000 per household.
All grants are contingent upon the availability of funds. As a result, aid will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more info, including how to apply and the applications for assistance, go to the Florida Realtors website.
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October 19, 2024
Former Florida Congressional Candidate Charged for Election-Related Threat

A former Florida congressional candidate was charged for an election-related threat to kill his primary opponent, U.S. Representative Anna Paulina Luna.

An indictment was recently unsealed charging the Florida Republican with threatening to kill his primary opponent in the 2021 election for the 13th Congressional District of Florida and a private citizen and acquaintance of his opponent.

According to the indictment, 41-year-old William Robert Braddock III, of St. Petersburg, and Victim 1 were candidates in the Republican primary election to represent the 13th Congressional District of Florida in the U.S. House of Representatives. Victim 2 was a private citizen and acquaintance of Victim 1.

According to 2021 court documents, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna reported that Braddock was stalking her and wanted her dead.

On June 8, 2021, Braddock made several threats to injure and kill Victim 1 and Victim 2 during a telephone call with Victim 2. Specifically, Braddock threatened, in part, to “call up my Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” and make Victim 1 disappear. After making the threats, Braddock left the United States and was later found to be residing in the Philippines. Braddock was recently deported from the Philippines to the United States and made his first court appearance in Los Angeles.

The former Republican Florida congressional candidate is charged with one count of interstate transmission of a true threat to injure another person. If convicted, Braddock faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

The FBI Tampa Field Office is investigating the case with support from the St. Petersburg Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, FBI’s Office of the Legal Attaché in Manila, and U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance. The investigation also benefited from foreign law enforcement cooperation provided by the Philippine Department of Justice and Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

Trial Attorney Alexandre Dempsey of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlton Gammons for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun.

Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by PIN and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint.

Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.

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October 14, 2024
Florida Woman Won $2 Million Top Prize Playing Scratch-Off Game

The Florida Lottery recently announced that Dianna Baker, of Inglis, claimed a $2?million?top prize from the FLORIDA 100X THE CASH?scratch-off game.

The Levy County woman chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $1,390,000.00.

Baker purchased her winning ticket from Kwik Stop, located at 529 US Highway 40 West in Inglis. The retailer received a $4,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket.

She claimed the Florida 100X The Cash top prize?at the Lottery’s Gainesville District Office.

Scratch-off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2023-2024. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $63.1 billion in prizes, created 2,175 millionaires, and generated more than $19.24 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $95.7 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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October 14, 2024
Florida Senator Rick Scott Honored with ‘Pioneers for Prosperity’ Award

Florida Senator Rick Scott was honored with the “Pioneers for Prosperity” award.

According to Americans for Prosperity, the award honors distinguished lawmakers who were policy champions during the 118th Congress. According to AFP, these leaders are on the frontlines in Congress advancing principles and policies that drive the conservative movement, while proactively opposing harmful ideas that grow the size of government and take money out of taxpayers’ paychecks.

The “Pioneers for Prosperity” stood firm against what they labeled ill-advised legislation that would have deepened the hardships felt by working families and worked closely with AFP in Washington as well as with grassroots communities in their home states.

“I’m proud to be recognized by Americans for Prosperity, a great organization that advocates for the success of our nation’s families and businesses,” Republican Senator Rick Scott said. “For too long, families have seen their tax dollars wasted as they struggle to make ends meet under the Biden-Harris administration’s big government, big spending and inflation-fueling policies. I’m fighting every day to keep the American dream alive by bringing fiscal sanity and common sense back to Washington so it truly works for the American people.”

U.S. Representatives Byron Donalds and Laurel Lee were also honored as “Pioneers for Prosperity.”

Lawmakers earned recognition for supporting bills such as the Employee Rights Act, Strategic Production Response Act, Lower Energy Costs Act, Health Care Fairness for All Act, and other pieces of legislation that the groups said offer common-sense solutions that would improve Americans’ lives – although Democrats would disagree.

“Florida is fortunate to have leaders in Washington who stand for policies that put hardworking Americans first,” AFP-FL State Legislative Affairs Director Chris Stranburg said. “We are thankful for these individuals who have voted for sensible reforms to keep our economy strong and government limited. Next year, we look forward to overcoming fiscal deadlines with the help of their voices.”

AFP-FL recently met with congressional members in Washington to discuss major tax policies, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, that are set to expire at the end of 2025 which are commonly referred to as the “fiscal cliff.”

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October 5, 2024
Florida Rep. Luna Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Legislation for Additional FEMA Funding
Florida Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna co-sponsored bipartisan legislation to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on Florida and other states across the nation.

“My constituents in Pinellas County depend on Congress to take swift and decisive action in the wake of this unprecedented disaster caused by Hurricane Helene,” said Republican Congresswoman Luna. “I am ready and willing to return to Washington and ensure our communities receive the critical resources necessary for a rapid recovery. Americans are counting on us, and we must take immediate action to address their life-saving needs.”

The bill, introduced by Democratic Florida Congressman Jared Moskowitz, allocates an additional $15 billion in response to Hurricane Helene, including $10 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for disaster relief and emergency assistance and $5 billion in supplemental funding to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program.

The office of Representative Anna Paulina Luna is committed to supporting constituents during this challenging time by providing a variety of resources. She provided a list of updated federal and local resources to help with assistance that is needed, and told residents do not hesitate to reach out directly to the Congresswoman’s office.

Here is the list of resources provided by Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna:

Important Steps for Assistance:
1. Contact Your Insurance Provider:
  If you have experienced damage to your home, business, or vehicle, your first step is to file a claim with your insurance company. Be sure to take photographs of all damages and submit them along with your claim.
2. Filing a Claim with FEMA:
  After contacting your insurance company, you can also apply for disaster relief through FEMA. Below are links to the FEMA website and their mobile app, where you can access the application for disaster assistance:
1. FEMA Helpline: 800-621-3362
2. DisasterAssistance.gov (The fastest way to apply)
3. FEMA Mobile App (Available for download on app stores)
Please be aware that after disasters, scammers may take advantage of vulnerable individuals by offering fraudulent assistance or services. It’s essential to protect yourself. Be cautious of anyone who arrives uninvited and offers to perform repairs. Always verify that the contractor provides a valid address, telephone number, and license information. For more details or to file a complaint, you can contact Pinellas County Consumer Services at 727-464-6200.

Federal Resources:

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management)-

Link to Application: DisasterAssistance.gov.

Mobile App: FEMA mobile app.

Helpline: 800-621-3362

SBA (Small Business Administration)-

Small Business Association (SBA)’s Office of Disaster Assistance

provides low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters to repair or replace real estate, personal property, machinery & equipment, inventory, and business assets that have been damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance-

https://oui.doleta.gov/unemploy/disaster.asp

Veteran Resources:
- If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (24/7) – 1-800-424-3838
- If you’re unable to receive a benefit payment after a disaster, contact the VA National Call Center at 1-800-827-1000 to request a special one-time payment.
- If you’re a displaced Veteran and receive VA employment services, you may qualify for two additional months of Employee Adjustment Allowance. Contact your local VA regional office to speak with a Veteran Readiness & Employment specialist to learn more.
- American Red Cross Services for Veterans:
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/services-for-veterans.html

Local & State Resources:

Pinellas County Information Center:

The County Information Center remains open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice.

Call (727) 464-4333.

Residents who are deaf or hard of hearing can contact the County Information Center via online chat at bit.ly/PinellasChat

Disaster Distress Hotline:

The Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 toll-free, multilingual disaster crisis counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to disasters. Call or text1-800-985-5990

American Red Cross Tampa Bay Chapter:

(Can provide emergency medical assistance/medications, disaster recovery planning, meals and water.)

Phone Number: 813-348-4820

Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/florida/central-florida/about-us/locations/tampa-bay.html

Salvation Army Disaster Assistance:

https://disaster.salvationarmyusa.org/HeleneServiceLocations

PODS (Points of Distribution):

Food, water, and tarps are available at three points of distribution on Pinellas barrier islands:
- St. Pete Beach: 4700 Gulf Bvd. Food, water and tarps
- Treasure Island: 10451 Gulf Blvd. Food, water and tarps
- Tierra Verde Fire Station: 540 Sands Point Drive. Water only
Crisis Cleanup

This is for people who need help cleaning up damage from Hurricane Helene and connects people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups, and faith communities who may be able to assist with jobs such as mucking (cleaning up), trees, tarp, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed. This hotline will remain open through Oct. 11, 2024.

They have activated the Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: (844) 965-1386.

Website: https://crisiscleanup.org/disasters/171

Temporary Place to Live / Shelter:

Help with food/groceries:

-Feeding Tampa Bay’s food distribution Disaster Relief

–St. Pete Free Clinic:
- We Help Free Pantry at 863 Third Ave. N (8:30am-3pm)
- Deuces Drive-Thru at 2198 15th Ave. S (2pm-6pm).
–3 Daughters Brewing– 222 22nd Street S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

-Fresh Meals from various local restaurants:
- 4-6pm Monday, 340 E Davis Blvd.
- 8-10am Tuesday, 2219 S Dale Mabry Highway
- 4-6pm Wednesday, 3644 S West Shore Blvd.
- 8-10am Thursday, 1700 W Fig Street and 340 E Davis Blvd
- 4-6pm Friday, 340 E Davis Blvd.
Fare Free Bus Services:

To assist residents affected by Hurricane Helene, the City of St. Petersburg and PSTA are offering a two-week period of fare-free bus service within St. Pete city limits, starting Monday, September 30 through Sunday, October 13.
- Applies to: Regular bus trips that begin and end within St. Pete city limits
- Exclusions: Does not apply to Access, MOD, or other mobility services
- SunRunner Update: SunRunner is turning around at Pasadena due to westbound access limitations
- Fares Resume: Monday, Oct. 14, 2024
For more information on routes and schedules, visit psta.net.

Free Laundry Services:
- Parking lot across from Allendale United Methodist Church (3803 Haines Rd. N) – 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Easy Kleen Laundromat (2970 54th Ave. S) – 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. (last wash at 8:30 p.m.)
Cooling Stations

These will provide a place for residents to cool off and charge their phones.

Clearwater:

Recreation Centers – Open Monday, Sept. 30, to Friday, Oct. 4:
- Morningside Recreation Center, 2400 Harn Blvd, Clearwater – 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Long Center, 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater – 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Countryside Rec Center, 2640 Sabal Springs Drive, Clearwater – 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- McMullen Tennis Complex, 1000 Edenville Ave., Clearwater – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater – CLOSED MONDAY; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday
- North Greenwood Recreation and Aquatic Center, 900 N Martin Luther King Jr Ave., Clearwater – 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Libraries:
- Clearwater Countryside Library, 2642 Sabal Springs Dr, Clearwater – Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday-Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Clearwater East Community Library at St Petersburg College, 2465 Drew St, Clearwater, FL 33765, Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Sunday
- Clearwater Main Library, 100 N. Osceola Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755, Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., closed Sunday
- Clearwater North Greenwood Library, 905 N. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Clearwater, FL 33755, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Sunday.
St. Petersburg:
- St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4444 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg – Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Lakewood United Methodist Church, 5995 Dr. M.L.K. Jr. St. S., St. Petersburg – Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Pets welcome)
St. Pete Beach:
- St. Pete Beach Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Madeira Beach:
- Madeira Beach City Hall, 14225 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Open daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. until further notice.
Seminole:
- Seminole Recreation Center, 9100 113th St, Seminole, – 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Largo:
- Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Dr, Largo – Monday – Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Gulfport:
- Gulfport Senior Center, located at 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport – open through Oct. 4, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dunedin:
- First United Methodist Church of Dunedin, 421 Main St., Dunedin – Monday, Sept. 30, through Thursday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lost Pets:
- If you have lost or found a pet, visit pinellas.gov/lost-and-found.
- You can visit the Pinellas County Animal Services’ Found Center to check for your lost pet or drop off a found pet at 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Found Center hours are Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can check other local animal shelters as well.
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October 5, 2024
Duke Energy Florida Estimates Times of Restoration for Pinellas County’s Barrier Islands
Duke Energy Florida issued Pinellas County estimated times of restoration for the barrier islands following Hurricane Helene.

All customers in these communities who are capable of receiving power will be restored by 11:59pm on Saturday, October 5th, with the majority restored by 11:59pm on Friday, October 4th.

“We understand that having power is necessary for our customers to be able to rebuild and get back on their feet,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Our crews continue to work tirelessly to meet our estimated times of restoration in order to help our customers and their families move forward with recovery.”

The following are the estimated times of restoration from Duke Energy Florida for Pinellas County:

North Barrier Island
- Clearwater Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Belleair Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Belleair Shores – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Indian Rocks Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Town of Indian Shores – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
Middle Barrier Island
- Town of Redington Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Town of N. Redington Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Town of Redington Shores – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
- Madeira Beach – Saturday, October 5th at 11:59pm
South Barrier Island
- Treasure Island – Saturday, October 5th at 11:59pm
- St. Pete Beach – Friday, October 4th at 11:59pm
“We will continue to be easily accessible and maintain an open line of communication with our customers even after their power is restored,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “After such extensive destruction, many communities face a lengthy and trying recovery process, but we are here to help and will be with them every step of the way.”

Duke Energy Florida has mobilized customer care units in severely impacted areas. Company representatives will be onsite to answer questions and provide account assistance. They will be available in the following locations on Friday, October 4th:

Madeira Beach City Hall
- 300 Municipal Drive, Madeira Beach, FL 33708
- 8am-5pm
Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber
- 6990 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
- 8am-5pm
Sheraton Sand Key Resort
- 1160 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
- 8am-5pm
Daystar Life Center of Citrus County
- 6751 W. Gulf to Lake Highway, Crystal River, FL 34429
- 9am-2pm
Customers who have damage to the electrical service that serves their homes or businesses should contact Duke Energy Florida. An onsite visit will be conducted to determine if there is a need to de-energize the property for safety. The customer will then need to contact a licensed electrician to make repairs, followed by the local municipality to schedule an inspection. After the inspection is complete, the customer must contact Duke Energy Florida to request restoration of service.

Customers who need power to rebuild their homes or businesses should contact their local municipality to relay their intent and obtain a 911 address for the property. Then, the customer will need to request that Duke Energy Florida establish electric service on a temporary pole on the property. After an electrician installs a temporary service pole and meter base, the customer must apply to the city or county for an electrical inspection and ensure the municipality sends the inspection to Duke Energy Florida to have electric service connected.

Customers who need assistance paying their utility bills can learn more about programs that may be available to help online or calling 800-700-8744.

For individual estimated times of restoration, customers can use Duke Energy’s Outage Map.

Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.
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October 4, 2024
Florida Woman Wins $1 Million Playing $20 Scratch-Off Game

The Florida Lottery recently announced that Nancy Rinehart, of Englewood, claimed a $1 million prize from?the $20 Gold Rush Limited scratch-off game.

The Charlotte County woman chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $795,200.00.

The Florida woman purchased her winning ticket from Englewood Food Store, located at 2680 Placida Road in Englewood. The retailer received a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket.

She claimed the winning prize at the Lottery’s Fort Myers District Office.

The $20 scratch-off game, GOLD RUSH LIMITED, features 32 top prizes of $5 million and 100 prizes of $1 million. Additionally, this ticket is filled with more than 33,000 prizes of $1,000 to $100,00.

The game’s overall odds of winning are 1-in-2.65.

Scratch-off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2023-2024. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $63.1 billion in prizes, created 2,175 millionaires, and generated more than $19.24 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $95.7 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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September 29, 2024
Governor Highlights Florida Prepaid Program Success, Encourages Parents to Claim Refunds

During National College Savings Month, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record refunds to parents through the Florida Prepaid program and encourages all Florida families to take advantage of an affordable prepaid college plan.

In total, Florida has returned nearly $1 billion to Florida families through Prepaid Florida refunds. Florida Prepaid is the largest and longest running prepaid program of its kind, with a 35-year track record of helping over 1.2 million Florida families save for college so they can graduate and enter the workforce without burdensome loan debts.

“Because of our focus on academic achievement and fiscal responsibility, Florida has both the number one ranked higher education system and the lowest tuition in the country,” said Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida’s flexible college savings options like the Florida Prepaid program allow parents to get a head start on paying for the future, and even get money back when tuition stays low. And because I have ensured tuition has not been raised in Florida since I’ve become Governor, we have another round of refunds available for parents now.”

The Florida Prepaid college saving program allows Florida families to lock in future tuition costs at today’s prices. Because the program factors in what tuition may cost in the future, parents receive a refund if tuition stays lower than what is predicted, often resulting in thousands of dollars back.

“Florida is setting an example for the rest of the nation for ensuring that students can access higher education without taking on high amounts of debt,” said Florida Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. “I am proud that Florida not only offers options like Florida Prepaid, but we are also returning money to parents because Governor DeSantis has kept tuition low.”

“There is a national narrative that higher education is extremely costly and not worth it. As the number one state for higher education for eight years in a row, Florida universities are a great return on investment. Florida has held tuition and fees flat and continues to prioritize textbook affordability,” said Ray Rodrigues, Chancellor of the State University System of Florida. “National College Savings Month provides an opportunity to highlight the affordability of our public institutions and the benefit Florida’s Prepaid College Savings Programs offer to families.”

Since Governor DeSantis took office, Florida has secured two rollbacks on Florida Prepaid Plan rates, one in 2020 and another earlier this year. These rollbacks have resulted in hundreds of thousands of families paying less, with their prepaid plan rates being reduced by a cumulative amount of $2.6 billion. In fact, more than 40,000 families still need to collect their 2024 refund, with over $130 million in unclaimed refunds.

To find out if you have an unclaimed refund, please login to your Florida Prepaid account.

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September 23, 2024
Central Florida Man Wins Top Prize Playing $50,000 A Year For Life Scratch-Off Game

A Central Florida man won the top prize playing the $50,000 A Year For Life scratch-off game.

The Florida Lottery announced that Edin Galindo, of Tampa, claimed the top prize from the $50,000 A YEAR FOR LIFE scratch-off game at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee.

The Hillsborough County winner chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $815,000.00.

“I was very excited and shocked that I won,” Galindo said.

He purchased his winning ticket from Quick Mart, located at 2209 East Bearss Avenue in Tampa. The retailer received a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket.

Turn $2 into a lifetime of adventures with the $50,000 A Year For Life game. This scratch-off game features more than 8.4 million winning tickets and over $52 million in cash prizes, including eight top prizes of $50,000 a year for life.

The overall odds are 1-in-4.43.

Scratch-off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2023-2024. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $63.1 billion in prizes, created 2,175 millionaires, and generated more than $19.24 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $95.7 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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September 14, 2024
Acquisition of Five-Building Industrial Park in Jacksonville Announced

Merritt Properties recently announced the acquisition of an existing five-building industrial park located at 5022 Gate Parkway in Jacksonville, Florida.

Formerly known as The Meridian at Deerwood, the newly acquired property has been renamed Merritt at Gate Parkway. This strategically located site, in the heart of St. Johns Town Center, offers unparalleled access directly off the J. Turner Butler Boulevard on Gate Parkway in Duval County.

Spanning 200,000 square feet of light industrial space across five buildings, Merritt at Gate Parkway offers immediate leasing opportunities with spaces starting at 3,500 square feet. Zoned as Industrial Business Park (IBP), the site offers 14-foot clear heights and ample parking, providing flexible industrial space for a variety of businesses.

At the time of the acquisition, the Southside Duval County submarket reported a light industrial vacancy rate of less than three percent. Previously, the development had transitioned to a single-story office layout, but with increasing demand for small-bay light industrial spaces, Merritt Properties identified a prime opportunity to convert the property to Class A light industrial use. Plans are already underway to enhance the property by installing drive-in docks and further upgrading the facilities to meet modern industrial standards.

Merritt at Gate Parkway is home to established tenants, including DB Structured Products and MMI.

“With its prime location, we are thrilled to expand our light industrial presence in Jacksonville with the acquisition of Merritt at Gate Parkway, which underscores our ongoing commitment to providing quality industrial spaces in key markets,” said Pat Franklin of Merritt Properties. “We are dedicated to enhancing the park’s infrastructure to ensure that both current and future tenants benefit from a premier industrial environment.”

“Merritt at Gate Parkway represents a tremendous opportunity for us to restore top-tier industrial space in a high-demand area,” said Gary Swatko of Merritt Properties, highlighting the significance of the site’s redevelopment potential. “The potential for redevelopment is vast, and we’re eager to transform this site into a modern, thriving industrial hub. This acquisition is a key component of our strategy to support Jacksonville’s economic growth by providing the essential infrastructure businesses need to succeed.”

This acquisition marks a significant step in Merritt Properties’ broader expansion in Jacksonville, where the company already owns and operates Imeson Landing Business Park, another five-building industrial park. Plans are underway to expand Imeson Landing with three additional buildings. Additionally, Merritt Properties owns land in Clay County for the future development of Oakleaf Commerce Center and acquired Magnolia Park, a three-building business park, during its initial expansion into Jacksonville in 2021.

Merritt holdings in Jacksonville now exceeds 500,000 square feet of light industrial in just two years of being in the market.

For leasing inquiries or more information, visit Merritt at Gate Parkway.

Established in 1967, Merritt Properties is a full-service commercial real estate firm with over 21 million square feet of office, warehouse, industrial, retail and build-to-suit throughout Maryland, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia.

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September 13, 2024
Florida Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison

A Florida fentanyl trafficker has been sentenced to federal prison.

This month, 39-year-old Patrick Ward, of Saint Lucie County, was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for trafficking fentanyl.

The sentence comes after Ward previously pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl on three separate occasions. According to the court record, on July 6, July 13, and August 18, of 2022, Ward sold a total of 47 grams of fentanyl in Port St. Lucie.

U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division, and Acting Chief Richard R. Del Toro, Jr., of the Port St. Lucie Police Department (PSLPD) announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon.

DEA Miami Field Division and PSLPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Porter prosecuted it.

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September 9, 2024
Florida Woman Wins $1 Million Playing Monopoly Scratch-Off Game

The Florida Lottery recently announced that Soignese Youte, of Miramar, claimed a $1 million top prize from the $5 MONOPOLY DOUBLER scratch-off game at the Lottery’s Miami District Office.

The Broward County winner chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $798,985.00.

The South Florida woman purchased her winning ticket from Le Phare Food Market, located at 16784 Northeast 2nd Avenue in North Miami Beach. The retailer received a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket.

The $5 Monopoly Doubler scratch-off game features more than 9.4 million winning tickets and over $132.6 million in cash prizes, including 12 top prizes of $1 million.

The game’s overall odds of winning are 1-in-3.98.

Scratch-off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2023-2024. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $63.1 billion in prizes, created 2,175 millionaires, and generated more than $18.95 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $95.7 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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September 8, 2024
Senator Rick Scott: Biden and Harris Driving America’s Economy into Ground

Florida Senator Rick Scott slammed President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, saying the Democrats are driving America’s economy into the ground.

In a recent video, the Republican Senator called out the Biden-Harris administration’s failed economic policies that he said “are killing American businesses and economy.”

“It’s no secret that Bidenomics and Harris price hikes are crushing our economy and making the American dream feel out of reach,” Florida Senator Rick Scott said. “We can only fix this problem if Washington politicians face the facts.”

The Florida Republican incumbent wants to “stop the tax and spending spree” in order to get America’s fiscal house in order.

Senator Scott also released an update on his actions to address the Biden-Harris administration’s economic crisis and skyrocketing inflation, along with his own quarterly economic snapshot.

In the video, the Florida Senator points out “the soaring cost of breakfast,” and the national debt problem. He added that “choices made by Washington elites are directly impacting your bottom line.”

Sen. Rick Scott also channeled Republican President Donald Trump in his political messaging.

“As Florida’s U.S. Senator, I’m fighting like hell to make our economy great again so that every American can live their American dream,” the Republican concluded in the political video message.

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September 7, 2024
Second Defendant Sentenced in Love Triangle Stabbing Death of Central Florida Man

A second defendant was sentenced in a love triangle stabbing death of a Central Florida man.

During a hearing, defendant Jaide Caporale pled to Second-Degree Murder. She was then sentenced to 35 years in prison, which is the maximum sentence in the range that was agreed upon in the plea deal.

On August 12, 2020, a dead body was found in Geneva, east of Sanford. Once the victim was identified, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office initial investigation led detectives to Volusia County.

Caporale had dated the victim on and off for several years. She was the last one seen with him on August 9, 2020, in Sanford.

On August 10, 2020, Caporale drove the victim to the house in Deltona where she and her co-defendant, Marvin Bryant, lived. Bryant stabbed the victim multiple times in the head and torso before the two dumped the victim’s body in Geneva.

Seminole and Volusia Sheriff’s Office detectives uncovered an extensive amount of important digital and forensic evidence during a four-month joint investigation.

A search warrant was executed on the car that Bryant was renting and Caporale was driving on the day of the murder. Blood samples taken from the backseat were tested and a positive match to the victim’s DNA was made by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

It was also apparent that they had cleaned up the rental vehicle and their house in an attempt to destroy evidence.

“Love triangles never turn out good. This one turned deadly,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said about the case after Bryant was convicted of First Degree-Murder and sentenced to life in prison in June.

The case was investigated by the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant State Attorney Andrew Urbanak successfully prosecuted the case for the state. The Honorable Kathleen McNeilly presided over the case and pronounced sentence.

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September 7, 2024
Broward County Insurance Adjuster Arrested

A Broward County insurance adjuster was arrested for unlicensed public adjusting.

Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez allegedly secured public insurance adjuster contracts for adjusting, and appraisal services, without being licensed in the state of Florida, and then unlawfully withheld money belonging to two policyholders. Gonzalez defrauded the two policyholders out of $34,424.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis recently announced the arrest of Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez, owner of Maximum Claims Recovery, Inc., on two counts of felony charges of Unlicensed Public Adjusting.

“When unlicensed public adjusters take advantage of the system, every policyholder in the state loses,” Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis said. “Insurance fraud drives up rates and devalues the professionalism of honest public adjusters and insurance agents. As Florida’s insurance market begins to improve little-by-little, we will continue to assure companies and policyholders that fraud will not be tolerated in our state. Kudos to my Criminal Investigations Division fraud detectives for doing the hard work to bring this fraudster to justice. Also, thanks to the Broward State Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case and protecting the rights of Florida consumers.”

“NAPIA believes in the ethical practice of public insurance adjusting and applauds all efforts of the Florida DFS to assure that only licensed public adjusters are allowed to assist consumers who have sustained first party property loss,” said Brian Goodman, General counsel to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).

In September 2023 and December 2023, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Criminal Investigations Division (CID) received complaints from policyholders based on concerns that Maximum Claims Recovery Inc, operated by Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez, may have secured a public insurance adjuster contract, for adjusting and appraisal services, without being licensed in the state of Florida and for unlawfully withholding monies belonging to the two policyholders.

According to supporting documents that were provided by the policyholders, Gonzalez represented himself as a licensed public adjuster to assist the policyholders with insurance claims related to home damage in 2022, in return for a 20% adjusting fee of the insurance settlements. The contract agreements from Maximum Claims Recovery, Inc. were executed and memorialized in writing by Gonzalez and the policyholders.

As such, Evolution Risk Advisors issued a settlement check in the amount of $18,000 on behalf of Universal and Property Insurance that was payable to Maximum Claim Recovery. Catastrophe and National Claims (CNC) issued two settlement checks on behalf of State National Insurance Company, Inc. that were payable to Maximum Claim Recovery that totaled $26,903. In both instances, the checks totaling $44,903 were signed and deposited in a Chase bank account Maximum belonging to Claims Recovery, Inc.

CID investigators gathered evidence to show the settlement checks totaling $44,903 were deposited into the Chase account. Although, Gonzalez received the settlement checks in a timely manner, he failed to remit the funds due to one of the policyholders from the Evolution Risk Advisors claim which totaled $18,000.

He also provided a business check in the amount of $16,424 to the other insured on behalf of CNC which was deposited by the policyholder and was returned for non-sufficient funds. As a result of fraudulent, unethical, and dishonest acts within the insurance industry, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez received a total of $44,903 while acting as an unlicensed public adjuster and failed to remit to the policyholders approximately $34,424 of insurance claim money.

CID Investigators reviewed records from the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Agent & Agency Services (A&A) which showed Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez licensed as an All Lines Public Adjuster suspended by the Chief Financial Officer for the state of Florida on April 25, 2013, for failing to maintain a surety bond.

Furthermore, Gonzalez was also arrested on June 19, 2023, by CID detectives in Miami-Dade County for a similar act. In that case, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez was charged with one count of acting as a public adjuster and one count of grand theft.

Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez was arrested at the Broward County Main Jail without incident by CID detectives. The Broward State Attorney’s Office, who partnered in this investigation will handle prosecution. If convicted, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez could face up to 30 years in prison.

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September 3, 2024
4Roots Opens Education Center on Farm Campus

The much-anticipated 4Roots Farm Campus opened the doors to its Education Center in Orlando to Valencia College students studying Plant Science and Agricultural Technology.

The Education Center, the centerpiece of the first phase of the Farm Campus which includes a greenhouse and a walkable edible food forest, will serve as the “living classroom” for the Valencia students enrolled in Intro to Sustainable Agriculture.

“From the very beginning, our vision for the Farm Campus focused on education,” explained John Rivers, President & CEO, 4Roots. “We want to teach people about the importance of healthy food, farmers about growing technologies that can enhance their crops, and students about the many careers that revolve around the agriculture industry,” he continued. “These students will be surrounded by some of the most advanced technologies in the world. I hope it inspires them to pursue a career in this exciting industry.”

The students studying Sustainable Agriculture will be collecting data on parameters relating to soil health, followed by growing various crops throughout the semester.

“The partnership between Valencia and 4Roots is providing cutting-edge opportunities for students to learn through working in a hands-on professional environment at one of the most high-tech and modern sustainable community farming facilities in the country,” said Dr. Lisa Macon, Launch Director, School of Engineering, Technology & Advanced Manufacturing, Valencia College. “Being able to take classes in a Learning Building Challenge building on site, such as the Education Center is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to experience a truly sustainable learning environment. Not only are students benefiting from the experience, but Valencia is also able to attract more students to these unique learning experiences that are in high demand by today’s socially conscious higher-ed learners,” she concluded.

The 4Roots Education Building is the first building constructed in the state of Florida that meets the “Living Building Challenge” criteria, constructed to put more energy back into natural resources than it takes out. The building is energy and water net positive and will generate a minimum of 5% energy to be filtered through the Farm Campus or distributed through the OUC microgrid. The Education Building is also a great example to the students of how sustainability is not just how crops are grown, but something else to be considered along with various other aspects of any project.

“This state of the art facility, including the greenhouse, classroom and permaculture area will enhance Valencia students’ experience by providing an array of diverse agricultural models on a larger scale than previously available,” said Dr. Javier A. Garcés, Professor & Program Chair, Plant Science & Agricultural Technology Program at Valencia College.

The 4Roots Farm Campus, located in The Packing District, is in the heart of Orlando’s emerging neighborhood.

It invites the community to gather and collaborate on the creation of a robust local food system. With a diverse range of growing systems, it offers a unique hands-on learning experience that highlights innovative and sustainable practices and technologies from around the world.

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September 3, 2024
Florida Law and Order Priorities Highlighted by Governor DeSantis, AG Moody, Sheriff Judd
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted law and order priorities, including protecting from fentanyl and illegal drugs, and curbing illegal immigration, with Attorney General Ashley Moody, Sheriff Grady Judd, and others in law enforcement.

Last year, Governor DeSantis signed legislation establishing the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (SAFE) grant program, which provides law enforcement with the funding needed to conduct large-scale drug operations across the state, including many in Central Florida.

Florida has also enacted a suite of legislation to crack down on crime, curb illegal immigration, increase penalties for drug and human traffickers, and recruit law enforcement officers to the state.

And when two state attorneys refused to carry out the duties of their positions and enforce the law, Governor DeSantis removed them from office.

“Leadership matters,” said Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. “Law and order is maintained when leaders insist on enforcing the law. Florida has enacted legislation to combat crime, recruited police officers from all over the country, refused to allow cities to defund the police, and—when necessary—removed rogue state attorneys who refused to enforce the law.”

“Florida is a law-and-order state, and through proactive leadership and diligent law enforcement efforts we continue to prosper, break tourism records and lead in new business formations,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody. “This is due in large part to the brave men and women in law enforcement, and we will always work to ensure they are supported by Florida leadership.”

In 2023, the Governor approved $20 million in funding for Florida’s SAFE program administered by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This state-funded grant has allowed local law enforcement agencies to effectively fight against drug trafficking and get hundreds of pounds of deadly drugs off our streets.

“I commend Governor DeSantis and the Florida legislature for their support of law enforcement in Florida,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “We are a law and order state, and proud of it. Because of this, our communities are thriving. Florida is a safe place to live, work, and play.”

Examples of Florida being a law and order state from SAFE grant success stories include:
- In January 2024, the Polk County Sheriffs Office utilized SAFE to arrest 11 suspects trafficking in fentanyl and cocaine, seizing 30 pounds of cocaine and nearly 8 pounds of fentanyl.
- In March 2024, Santa Rosa County and Escambia County Sheriffs’ offices, working alongside the DEA, seized 3 grams of fentanyl, marijuana, prescription pills, and several handguns.
- In April 2024, FDLE operations in conjunction with Sheriffs’ Offices in Seminole County and Palm Beach County resulted in arrests of nearly 40 drug traffickers.
- In April 2024, officers in the Fort Myers region successfully seized nearly 4kg of cocaine, 90g of fentanyl, 69g of MDMA, 375g of marijuana, two AR-15 weapons, and more than $60,000 in currency.
- In July 2024, FDLE Pensacola, Santa Rosa County and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s offices, Fort Walton Beach Police Department, FHP, and the DEA announced the arrest of 19 drug traffickers facing charges including trafficking in cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, conspiracy to distribute, and racketeering.
- In August 2024, a SAFE-funded investigation dismantled a drug trafficking operation in St. Petersburg which was responsible for manufacturing hundreds of doses of fentanyl daily throughout Polk County, specifically in Lakeland.
  
  Officers confiscated 10.7 kilos of fentanyl, along with cocaine, oxycodone, marijuana, 3 illegal firearms, and over $500,000 in cash.
“Florida is a national model in eradicating drugs from our communities and taking criminals off the street,” said Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner. “In every corner of this great state, you will find State Troopers and local law enforcement working together to interdict drugs and arrest those who profit off of it. Instead of being demonized, Governor DeSantis celebrates the dangerous work our law enforcement officers do every day, and our men and women in law enforcement deeply appreciate that.”

In total, SAFE funds have resulted in over 650 arrests and the seizure of more than 145 pounds of fentanyl, 220 pounds of cocaine, and 60,000 fentanyl pills – numbers officials say show Florida is a law and order state.

“Thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis and his leadership, Florida’s law enforcement officers have arrested hundreds of dangerous drug traffickers and taken fentanyl and other deadly drugs off our streets,” said Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass. “Florida is a national role model and stands in stark contrast to crime-plagued blue states.”
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August 31, 2024
More Chances to Win with Pick Daily Games BOGO Mondays, Fireball Fridays Promotion

The Florida Lottery launched a limited-time PICK Daily Games promotion that includes BOGO Mondays and FIREBALL Fridays – offering players even more chances to win.

Through September 22nd, $1 million in instant-win prizes will be randomly awarded as $5 cash reward coupons.

During the promotion, players who purchase any PICK Daily Game ticket – PICK 2™, PICK 3™, PICK 4™, and PICK 5™ – for $1 or more will have an opportunity to win a $5 cash reward coupon printed instantly. That’s right — the more you play, the more chances you have to win!

On Mondays, players who do not win a $5 instant cash reward with their purchase will receive a free PICK 3 $1 STRAIGHT Quick Pick ticket with every qualifying $1 or more PICK Daily Games STRAIGHT play purchase (PICK 2, PICK 3, PICK 4, or PICK 5). On FIREBALL Fridays, players who don’t win a $5 instant cash coupon will receive 50% off any PICK plus FIREBALL purchase.

The $5 cash prize coupons can be redeemed immediately or at any time before September 22, 2024 at any of the Lottery’s more than 13,600 retailers statewide. Coupons cannot be redeemed by mail.

PICK Daily Game tickets cost $0.50 or $1 to play. Adding FIREBALL doubles the price of the base play ticket and applies to all panels. PICK 2, PICK 3, PICK 4, and PICK 5 drawings are held twice daily, seven days a week, at 1:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. ET.

PICK Daily Games have generated over $7.89 billion for education, with more than 56.1 million winners since the games began.

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,500 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $94.2 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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August 23, 2024
Central Florida Man Wins $50,000 a Year for Life from Scratch-Off Game

A Central Florida man won $50,000 a Year for Life scratch-off game from the Florida Lottery.

41-year-old Edin Galindo chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $815,000. He claimed his winning ticket at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee.

The Tampa winner bought the winning ticket at a Quick Mart located at 2209 East Bearss Avenue. The store will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the ticket.

According to the Florida Lottery, the $2 scratch-off game offers over $52 million in cash prizes. There are a total of eight top prizes of $50,000 a year for life.

The overall odds of winning are 1-in-4.43.

Scratch-off games are an important part of the Florida Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 72 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2022-2023. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $61.9 billion in prizes, created 2,103 millionaires, and generated more than $18.95 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,500 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $94.2 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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August 23, 2024