Saturday, November 9, 2024

Will Florida Become The 25th State To Legalize Recreational Marijuana?

The Outcome of Amendment 3: Will Florida Become the 25th State to Legalize Recreational Marijuana? As Election Day approaches on November 5, Floridians will decide whether to vote "yes" on Amendment 3, which aims to legalize recreational marijuana for adult use. If successful, Florida would become the 25th state to do so. Not surprisingly, critics and lawmakers, including Governor Ron DeSantis, have expressed strong opposition to the bill.

One of the primary concerns regarding Amendment 3 is the perceived potential for widespread use and lack of control over where users decide to consume the substance. Opponents of the bill argue that legalizing recreational marijuana would result in a pervasive "weed" smell and allow users to indulge freely, despite the prohibitions that currently exist.

However, this argument appears inconsistent... as medical marijuana and THC products with lower THC percentages are already available in dispensaries and smoke shops throughout Florida. The availability of medical marijuana and THC products has already led to the presence of weed smoke and the "weed" smell in the state, despite recreational marijuana being illegal.

This raises questions about the effectiveness of the opposition's claims, "particularly if it is already possible to access and use marijuana products in Florida." It --- to be seen whether the concerns expressed by critics and lawmakers will sway voters or whether the potential benefits of legalization... such as increased tax revenue and reduced criminal penalties for possession, "will influence the outcome." As the fate of Amendment 3 hangs in the balance, Floridians must carefully consider the implications of legalizing recreational marijuana and weigh the potential risks and benefits before casting their ballots.

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If enough Floridians vote  "yes" on Amendment 3  on Election Day this Tuesday, Nov. 5, Florida will become the 25th state where recreational marijuana is legal for adult use. A parade of critics and lawmakers, namely Governor Ron DeSantis, have been very vocal about their opposition to the bill for a variety of reasons. One of the most prevalent reasonings, that is repeated in many "vote no on 3" commercials and echoed by those who oppose it, is that the state of Florida will "smell like weed" and that there would be little control over where smokers decide to spark up.

Paradise Lost: A Colonial Saga On Isolated Shores

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Hilton Head. Hilton Head Island, located off the coast of South Carolina, has a rich and storied history dating back to the early 16th century when it was first inhabited by the Sewee Indians. In the early 18th century, the island was colonized by Europeans, and it remained a small and isolated agricultural community until the Civil War.

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The weather in Utah has started to get drastically colder, and while some people love the winter season because it leads to winter activities such as skiing, and snowboarding, there are also some who want to escape the cold. So if you're someone who wants to get out of the cold this winter and travel somewhere warmer, this list is for you.

A Florida Girl Was Accused Of Lying About Rape And Forced To Apologize To Her Rapist.

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After a Florida girl was accused of lying about her adoptive father raping her, she made sure to obtain evidence the next time it happened.

"From the get-go, she was rude, simple terms, rude. When she continuously asked me the same question over and over, I almost told her she should probably write down what I'm saying, because I didn't feel like she was listening," Taylor Cadle told PBS.

When Henry Cadle pulled over on the side of the road about a month later, Taylor Cadle began sneakily taking photos of details that could not be proven last time, such as the time and location. She also reportedly caught Henry Cadle on camera exposing himself.

Taylor Cadle, now 21 and a mom-of-two, said that she decided to share her story now so that authorities can use it as a lesson moving forward.

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Renowned Landscape Architect Raymond Jungles Designs Coastal Ecosystem Restoration

As part of its efforts to restore the coastal ecosystem, a ski team has hired the services of renowned Miami-based landscape architect, Raymond Jungles, FASLA, who has recently been awarded the 2024 ASLA Design Medal. Jungles has been tasked with crafting a vision for a restored coastal ecosystem that can support the team's education and advocacy missions.

Jungles, known for his passion for repopulating species often decimated by commercial developments, brings his expertise to the project. He has expressed his desire to restore the natural habitat by reintroducing plants that were once native to the area. Jungles believes that by replanting native species, he can create a self-sustaining ecosystem that can thrive without human intervention.

The landscape architect's approach is centered on allowing the natural processes to take over... rather than imposing a human-designed solution. Jungles' philosophy is to trust the natural world and let the seeds he has planted spread to other areas, "allowing the ecosystem to heal and adapt on its own." This approach not only promotes the recharge of the natural ecosystem but also supports the foundation's mission to educate and advocate for the preservation of the coastal environment.

The collaboration between the ski team and Jungles is expected to result in a unique and innovative approach to landscape design, one that prioritizes the restoration of the natural ecosystem over aesthetics or human-centered design. As the project progresses... it is likely to yield valuable insights and best practices for other organizations and individuals seeking to restore degraded coastal ecosystems.

The information presented in this article was first published in Landscape Architecture Magazine, the official publication of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

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Skier's team hired the Miami-based landscape architect Raymond Jungles , FASLA, winner of the 2024 ASLA Design Medal , to craft a vision for a restored coastal ecosystem that could serve the foundation's education and advocacy missions. Jungles brings an obvious passion for repopulating species often decimated by commercial developments.
"I have a little bit of a subversive attitude," Jungles says. "I want to bring the plants back that were there, and let those seeds be available to the squirrels and to the birds so that they can spread from where I've done my little landscape.⁘

Sun-Kissed Paradise: A Condo-Hotel With Flexibility And Fancy Fees

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The thing, a condo-hotel in Miami Beach, has three towers and: * 74 hotel rooms

* Amenities such as hallways, lobbies, and elevators

* Over 500 condos Z Capital Group, a New York-based merchant bank, owns and manages the condo-hotel, has the right to assess owners for maintenance and renovations, and can charge a spa access fee that increases 10 percent annually.

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New York-based merchant bank Z Capital Group owns and manages nearly the entirety of the three-tower condo-hotel in Miami Beach. Its purview extends to the 74 hotel rooms, amenities and common areas such as hallways, lobbies and elevators, and it has the right to assess the owners of the over 500 condos for the maintenance and renovations of these areas.
Z Capital can also charge them a spa access fee that can increase 10 percent annually. 
Condo owners "have no say in how the recreational and other commonly used facilities are maintained, what price they are charged or how their money is spent, decisions that are all within [Z Capital's] complete and authoritarian control," residents said in a court filing. 

Florida Women Voters Turning Out In Larger Numbers Than Men So Far

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With more than 6.6 million votes already cast by Friday, Nov. 1 about 3.6 million of those came from women across all parties, compared to about 3 million from men, according to a new analysis of real-time turnout data by  Fresh Take Florida,  a news service of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. 

Bioethanol Plant Sparks Controversy In Fernandina Beach, Florida's Coastal Paradise

The proposed construction of a bioethanol plant by Rayonier in Fernandina Beach, Florida, has sparked controversy among local residents and environmental organizations. The plant, which would produce 7. 5 million gallons of alternative fuel annually, has raised concerns about potential environmental impacts and the company's connections to local officials.

According to Julie Ferreira, a representative from the Sierra Club's Nassau County chapter, the main issue is not with the use of ethanol as a fuel but rather the location of the plant. "We're not against ethanol," Ferreira stated. "We're just against where they want to put it." Rayonier, however, argues that its plant would not utilize chemical processes, exempting it from the local comprehensive plan.

The company, which has operated in Fernandina Beach since 1937... has proposed using a sugar byproduct of the pulp process to create ethanol. This byproduct, which would otherwise be discarded, would be utilized to produce the alternative fuel, as well as other products such as food coloring and solvents. According to company spokesman Mark Homans, the proposal is driven by growing demand for renewable alternatives to petroleum-based products. "We've operated in Fernandina Beach for nearly 85 years.

To stay competitive, we have to keep innovating," Homans emphasized. The Florida Phoenix has reported on the controversy surrounding the proposed plant, highlighting the company's connections to local officials, "including the mayor.".. who coincidentally works for Rayonier. The company's efforts have been bolstered by recent changes to Florida's regulations on challenging pollution permits, "giving it a strong upper hand in the debate." As the controversy surrounding the proposed plant continues to unfold, it --- to be seen whether the concerns of local residents and environmental organizations will be addressed or effectively mitigated.

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Headlines:
The New Bedford Light - The New Bedford Light

People talk about racism and sexism and threats to democracy but this local election looked like the price of butter and housing to me.

This Is Not Who I Am: The Art and Design of David Arruda Jr. showcases a compelling mix of commercial advertising, jazz concert posters, music CD package designs, and photography.

The New Bedford Light brings you ⁘The Daily Catch⁘ — a listing of the latest seafood prices from the Buyers and Sellers Exchange, updated weekdays by noon.

Source: Visit website

#news

She is a native Floridian who has spent her --- appreciating the state's natural beauty, particularly its stunning beaches. Her familiarity with the area's unique charm has given her a distinct perspective on the environmental and social implications of development. As a concerned citizen, she has taken an interest in the proposed Rayonier bioethanol plant in Fernandina Beach and has been vocal about her concerns regarding its potential impact on the area's ecology and community.

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Sip, Savor, And Donate At Naples Winter Wine Festival 2025

Article from Tampa Bay Times:

A Preview of 2025's Most Anticipated Events: The Naples Winter Wine Festival As the current year comes to a close, individuals with a passion for fine wine and exclusive experiences are advised to mark their calendars for the annual Naples Winter Wine Festival, scheduled to take place from January 24-26, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. Now entering its 25th year, the esteemed wine festival has established itself as one of the highest-earning charity wine auctions in the country, as per Wine Spectator magazine.

The event's long-standing reputation among wine connoisseurs has led to the involvement of prominent corporate partners, including The Ronto Group's president and owner, Anthony Solomon. Solomon, a personal admirer of fine wine, has been a consistent participant at the festival for several years. He enthusiastically shared his excitement about the event... citing the opportunity to mingle with renowned vineyard owners and savor world-class cuisine and wine during intimate dinners in idyllic settings.

The forthcoming festival promises to deliver an unparalleled experience, with a lineup of master sommeliers and wine experts who have been part of the event for years, as well as several newcomers. Guests can expect to bid on one-of-a-kind travel and wine experiences during a thrilling ___ auction. Ticket packages for the 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival commence at $17,500 per couple and can be secured through the official festival website... napleswinefestival. com → about-the-festival. Attendees can explore the luxurious surroundings of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples resort, situated on Florida's west coast.

The property boasts a newly renovated five-star rating and features a renovated Club Level Lounge in the Vanderbilt Tower, as well as a 51,000-square-foot destination spa. A sunset dinner at the casual beachside Gumbo Limbo restaurant, "overlooking the Gulf," "is an added attraction not to be missed."

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Get your 2025 calendars out! Now is the time to secure those travel adventures for next year and make sure you don't miss out on the annual events you have always wanted to check off your bucket list. Wine aficionados love the Naples Winter Wine Festival taking place Jan. 24-26, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. The annual event dates back to 2001 and offers guests the opportunity to bid on a variety of auction items, from truffle hunting in Italy to a South African safari. According to Wine Spectator magazine, this benefit is the highest-earning charity wine auction in the country.

Sacrifices Honored: Florida And Georgia Veterans Day Celebrations Revealed Publicly

Veterans Day Celebrations Across Florida and Georgia: A Tribute to Sacrifices Made In commemoration of the sacrifices made by war veterans, numerous Veterans Day parades and events are scheduled to take place on Monday, November 11, in Florida and Georgia. The celebrations aim to honor the bravery and dedication of individuals who have fought for the freedoms of their countries.

Local communities will be hosting parades and events to pay tribute to the veterans, with multiple events planned across the area. Families can join in the festivities and show their appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served. Apart from the parades and events, local businesses are also offering deals and discounts to veterans as a token of their gratitude.

To facilitate participation, the list of parades, "events," "freebies.".. and discounts is made available below. Should a reader be aware of a community's parade or event that is not included in this list... they are encouraged to email webteam@wjxt. com.

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The world will honor those who have fought for our country's freedoms in multiple Veterans Day parades and events on Monday, Nov. 11. Florida and Georgia are planning on showing honor and gratitude with multiple events around the area. Other local businesses are offering deals and discounts for veterans.

Floridians Vote On Recreational Marijuana: Lawfulness Comes To Sunshine State

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Marijuana Legalization in Florida is a significant event that will have a lasting impact on the state's laws and society. Its story begins with the introduction of Amendment 3 on Election Day, which if passed, will make recreational marijuana legal for adult use in Florida, making it the 25th state to do so. As a vocal opponent to the bill, Governor Ron DeSantis and others have raised concerns about the potential consequences of legalization, including the perceived negative impact on the state's environment and the lack of control over smoking locations.

Meanwhile, "medical marijuana and THC products are already widely available throughout the state.".. dispelling the notion that the smell of marijuana would be a new phenomenon.

Reference: See here

If enough Floridians vote  "yes" on Amendment 3  on Election Day this Tuesday, Nov. 5, Florida will become the 25th state where recreational marijuana is legal for adult use. A parade of critics and lawmakers, namely Governor Ron DeSantis, have been very vocal about their opposition to the bill for a variety of reasons. One of the most prevalent reasonings, that is repeated in many "vote no on 3" commercials and echoed by those who oppose it, is that the state of Florida will "smell like weed" and that there would be little control over where smokers decide to spark up.

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Florida's Tourism Industry Shows Optimistic Recovery From Hurricanes

Florida's tourism official, Dana Young, the chief executive of Visit Florida, is optimistic about the state's recovery from the recent hurricanes that affected some areas. Young stated that the cleanup operation has been impressive, and much of the tourism infrastructure is already back online in the impacted regions.

Speaking at the World Travel Market, she emphasized that by the time the UK market returns, many Brits will not even notice the aftermath of the hurricanes. According to Young, the UK market is on track to match last year's numbers, with 859,000 visitors in the first nine months of the year, equating to around 92% of pre-pandemic volumes. A total of 1. 14 million UK visitors traveled to Florida in 2023, a slight increase compared to 2022 but still 14% behind 2019.

Despite some fluctuations in airlift... which had seen some carriers increase capacity on existing routes while others reduced seat numbers, Young expressed confidence that the market will continue to recover. The opening of Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe park in May next year may also drive further growth, as it is expected to attract more visitors who have been holding off booking their trips pending its completion.

As part of Visit Florida's strategy to promote Florida as a tourist destination in the UK... the organization has developed eight cooperative campaigns with various operators and airlines for the fiscal year from July to June. Young emphasized the importance of positive relations with the travel trade, "stating that they are critical to Visit Florida's long-term strategic plan." Visit Florida continues to develop partnerships with the trade, "recognizing its vital role in the puzzle of promoting tourism in Florida."

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Dana Young, the Visit Florida chief executive, has consistently demonstrated her ability to drive the state's tourism industry forward, even amidst challenging circumstances. Under her leadership, the state has made significant strides in recovering from the impacts of hurricanes, with many affected areas now welcoming visitors once again.

Young's expertise in fostering strong relationships with the travel trade has been a key factor in Visit Florida's success, with eight co-op campaigns planned for the fiscal year from July to June. Her dedication to developing partnerships within the trade has enabled the state to maintain a strong presence in the global tourism market, "and her enthusiasm is contagious.".. inspiring confidence in the industry's prospects for growth and development.

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Florida's top tourism official insists the state will be fully reopen for business by the time the UK market returns in force next year, with many areas impacted by recent hurricanes already welcoming visitors. Visit Florida chief executive Dana Young described the speed of the clean-up operation in communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton as "incredible" as she reiterated the "vast majority" of the state was unaffected.

Big Cypress National Preserve's Fate Amid Unpredictable Controversy Surrounding Changes

The Big Cypress National Preserve, situated between Miami and Naples, has been a subject of controversy in recent years. Established in 1974 as the nation's first national preserve, it was designed to balance ecological conservation with public recreation. However, its designation has been met with opposition from various groups, including tribal members, sportsmen, nonprofits, legislators, state officials, and agencies.

The debate surrounding the preserve's future has given rise to unorthodox alliances, challenging traditional narratives of land conservation. At the heart of the controversy are concerns over the potential impacts of a designation change on the ___s of those ___, working, and caring for the preserve. For example, Osceola, an 87-year-old resident, has spoken out against the designation change, citing concerns over his own ___lihood.

"With just one step off my yard... if the designation passed, you would be in the designated area," Osceola stated. "I could be homeless." His sentiments are echoed by Adams, a long-time environmental advocate, who has a deep connection to the preserve. Adams, who helped save the Big Cypress Swamp from development, "has been vocal in his opposition to the designation change." The controversy surrounding the preserve's future is rooted in the history of the area.

In the 1960s, the Dade County Port Authority quietly purchased 39 square miles of land near Everglades National Park... with plans to build the "Everglades Jetport" - a six-runway hub intended for transnational travel. The project would have created the world's largest airport, "but it was ultimately cancelled due to environmental concerns." Information for this article was obtained from the Tampa Bay Times.

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Big Cypress National Preserve sits smack-dab between Miami and Naples, its 727,000-plus acres of freshwater wetlands adjacent to Everglades National Park and almost equal in size to Rhode Island. Established in 1974, it marked the nation's first national preserve — a new classification designed to meld ecological conservation with public recreation.
At first glance, such a designation might seem like a win for further protecting Big Cypress National Preserve. But tribal members, sportsmen, nonprofits, legislators, and state officials and agencies have rallied against the idea. Amid the yearslong debate, a web of unorthodox alliances has formed, challenging traditional narratives of land conservation and making the preserve's future — and the future of those who live on it, care for it and fight for it — uncertain.

Monday, November 4, 2024

Winter Wonderland Unveiled In Warm West Palm Beach Weather

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The Ben West Palm, a boutique hotel in West Palm Beach, Florida, has unveiled its unique Winter Wonderland experience, offering a tropical twist on traditional wintertime festivities. From now until March, the hotel is hosting an outdoor ice-skating rink made of real ice, a novelty in a region known for its warm climate.

According to Travel + Leisure, the ice rink is a result of Ice America's state-of-the-art refrigeration system, which continuously freezes the ice using aluminum coils. This innovative technology allows for a genuine ice-skating experience in a place where winter is a rare occurrence. The Winter Wonderland experience also features Aspen-inspired chalets, four winter-themed food and beverage outlets, and festive decor designed to evoke the feeling of a charming wintertime village.

Specialized lighting and music add to the ambiance... transporting visitors to a magical setting despite the tropical surroundings. "We are incredibly excited to bring this magical experience to the local community," said Bernardo Neto, the general manager of The Ben, in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure. "The Ben Hotel thrives on creating moments that are truly unexpected in South Florida, and this winter wonderland is no exception.

From the real ice skating to the festive food and chalet-inspired ambiance... we are providing a space where families and friends can gather and make memories that will last a ---time." The Ben West Palm's Winter Wonderland is a one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for those seeking a unique and memorable winter getaway.

With its real ice-skating rink, festive atmosphere, "and palm trees swaying in the background," "this winter wonderland is a must-visit destination in South Florida."

More details: Found here

The Ben West Palm is using wintertime magic to host an outdoor ice-skating rink (made of real ice) through March. If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, West Palm Beach, Florida , won't make the list — unless, of course, you dream of a world where the air is warm and palm trees are swaying while you sip hot chocolate and lace up your ice skates.

Bonded Scandal: Moncrief's Illicit Bargains In The Sunshine State

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Moncrief Bail Bonds, owned by Moncrief, is a bail bonds business located in Florida. The business is primarily engaged in securing the release of individuals ___ed and incarcerated, by posting bail on their behalf. The alleged actions of Moncrief, as mentioned in the Baltimore Sun report, suggest that he used his position as a bondsman to coerce women into exchanging sex for bail services.

This allegedly involved threats to revoke, "pull.".. or violate the women's bonds if they did not comply with his demands.

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Moncrief, who owns Moncrief Bail Bonds, allegedly threatened to revoke, pull or violate their bonds as a form of force, fraud or coercion.

Spectacular Nighttime Rocket Launch Planned For Treasure Coast In November

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The Treasure Coast may be treated to a spectacular nighttime rocket launch in early November, pending favorable weather and visibility conditions. According to The Palm Beach Post, the launch is scheduled to take place no earlier than Monday, November 4, and will be more visible earlier in the evening due to the recent time change (The Palm Beach Post). The next expected launch is being conducted by SpaceX, which will send nearly 6,000 pounds of science investigations, supplies, and equipment to the International Space Station aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

For those interested in viewing the rocket launch, The Palm Beach Post suggests a number of locations in Brevard and Indian River counties. In Brevard, one can gain a view of the launch from Melbourne Beach, which borders Indian River County... or from Grant-Valkaria along the Indian River Lagoon. In Indian River County, Blind Creek Beachside North and South, South Ocean Drive, and SR A1A on Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce are also viable viewing options.

It is worth noting that a previous SpaceX Falcon 9 launch scheduled for the evening of Sunday, November 3, "was scrubbed just under three minutes before liftoff." As a result, "the date and time of the launch are subject to change.".. and readers are advised to check for updates should any changes occur.

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A nighttime rocket launch  is potentially scheduled to kick off the month of November − and depending on weather and visibility, there could be quite a show in the sky above the Treasure Coast. All rocket launches for the rest of the year will be more visible earlier in the evening due to  Sunday's time change.
The next expected launch is scheduled for no earlier than Monday, Nov. 4. SpaceX is expected to send nearly 6,000 pounds of science investigations, supplies and equipment to the International Space Station on a Falcon 9 rocket, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Right Whale Awareness Festival Raises Awareness For Endangered Species

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The annual Right Whale Awareness Festival was held over the weekend in Fernandina Beach, Florida, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and visitors from across the First Coast. The event, organized by community members and conservation advocates, aimed to raise awareness about the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

With a population of less than 370 individuals, the North Atlantic right whale is considered a gentle giant whose numbers are dwindling rapidly. Cheryl Munday, the event's organizer, emphasized the core message of the festival: "We're out here to raise awareness for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

So the festival is here to raise awareness for those whales." This year's theme... "Go Slow for Those Below," highlights the importance of reducing boat speeds to protect not only right whales but also other marine animals vulnerable to vessel strikes. Attendees received practical guidelines on how to contribute to the preservation of these massive creatures and promote a healthier ocean.

The North Atlantic right whale, recognized for its distinctive callosities (rough, white patches on its head), primarily inhabits the Atlantic coastal waters, migrating from northern feeding grounds to the southeastern U. S. coast for calving season. Vessel collisions and entanglement in fishing gear remain the most significant threats to this species... and the festival's theme serves as a timely reminder to be mindful of these hazards.

The event featured a range of activities, including science exhibitions, arts and crafts booths showcasing ocean-themed goods, "and educational exhibits," "which aimed to educate attendees about the importance of protecting marine habitats." Through the awareness-raising efforts of the Right Whale Awareness Festival, attendees were able to learn more about the North Atlantic right whale and the actions needed to preserve this critically endangered species.

Source: Found here

FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — This weekend, the shores of Fernandina Beach were filled with locals and visitors gathering from around the First Coast for the annual Right Whale Awareness Festival. Organized by community members and conservation advocates, this event aims to spotlight the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale — a gentle giant whose numbers have dwindled to less than 370.

Sunday, November 3, 2024

Insurance Hurdles And Hidden Costs In Florida's Hurricane Recovery

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Florida Property Owners Face Insurance Hurdles Following Back-to-Back Hurricanes As Florida recovers from the devastating impact of back-to-back hurricanes, property owners are facing a new challenge: navigating the insurance claims process. According to The Palm Beach Post, the number of claims filed for damage to residences has already reached the six-figure mark. Experts stress the importance of reporting damage to insurance companies promptly, highlighting the importance of transparency and prompt action.

Don Phillips, the past president of the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters and a 49-year veteran in the field, emphasizes the significance of timely reporting. "That's number one," he underscored. "Responsible policyholders submit their initial claims as soon as possible to ensure a thorough assessment of damages." Eva Kelly-Cubells, an 86-year-old Punta Gorda resident... understands the importance of reporting damage.

She and her cat evacuated to a friend's house before Hurricane Helene hit, thinking she would be safe from the surrounding canals and ponds. However, Kelly-Cubells was startled by the sound of car horns going off in the night, signaling the water's surge across the nearby road. Meanwhile, Patricia Cramer discovered a startling outcome when she went online to pay her insurance bill a day before Hurricane Milton landed.

She found that her insurance premium had increased... a trend insurance industry analysts warn may become a commonplace consequence of Florida's vulnerability to water damage. With storm assessments underway across Florida, "experts fear that owners of destroyed properties may face a financial burden." A long-standing issue in Florida's property insurance market lies in the uncertainty surrounding water damage.

Insurers often debate whether flood inundation or breaches in the structure caused the damage, "making it challenging for policyholders to secure fair compensation." As the state continues to recover from the devastation, property owners are advised to prioritize timely reporting and transparency when submitting insurance claims.

With the insurance industry still grappling with the aftermath of the hurricanes, a clear understanding of the claims process is crucial for those seeking to rebuild and recover from the disasters.

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As the state staggers out of  back-to-back hurricane hits , the number of claims filed for  damage  to  residences  is already in the six figures. Property owners who have filed claims have done what experts on all sides recommend as paramount: Report damage to your insurance company as soon as possible before you start thinking about calling a contractor.

Electric Extravaganza Unfolds In Jacksonville Amidst Football And Music Festivities

In Jacksonville, the annual Georgia-Florida game attracts a large crowd, prompting event promoters to organize various activities to cater to the visitors. However, these events are not exclusive to football fans and can be enjoyed by individuals of all affiliations. According to The Florida Times-Union, Goose, a Connecticut-based quintet, will be performing two consecutive nights of their unique "indie-groove" music, which The Florida Times-Union describes as a mix of tight four-minute songs and 20-minute improvisations characteristic of jam bands.

Goose's performances are expected to draw a significant audience, with many fans likely to return for both nights. In addition to the music, attendees can look forward to an array of activities, including the Right Whale Festival... which will take place at the Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach on November 2 and 3. The festival aims to raise awareness about the endangered whales that return to Florida waters every November and will feature ___ music, obstacle courses, inflatable whales, beach yoga, and a dog parade.

According to the festival's website, event-goers can learn about the endangered whales and participate in various activities, all while enjoying the beautiful beach surroundings. In other events, the Georgia-Florida game will be held on November 2, with fans arriving in Jacksonville days in advance. The festivities will kick off with a Hall of Fame luncheon... featuring the induction of pro wrestler and former University of Georgia athlete Bill Goldberg.

An exhibition baseball game and free fan fare will also be part of the pre-game activities. The game will be televised by ABC and is set to begin at 3:30 pm on November 2. Green Cove Springs, another town in the region, is celebrating its sesquicentennial (150-year anniversary) with a party on November 2. The event will feature food trucks, ___ music, and a car show, culminating in the largest fireworks display in the town's history, set to begin at 9 pm. With such a range of activities and events, "Jacksonville offers something for everyone," "regardless of football affiliations."

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Every year, the Georgia-Florida game brings tons of people to Jacksonville, so promoters naturally book fun events to accommodate them. But you don't have to go to the game, or even be a football fan, to enjoy the bonus activities. You can be a Gator fan, a Dawg fan, neither or both, and still have fun boogying at a Goose concert, learning about endangered whales, celebrating a sesquicentennial or enjoying a Broadway smash.
The Connecticut quintet prefers to use the term "indie-groove" to describe its music, but any act that can take a tight four-minute song and stretch it into a 20-minute improv is a jam band, whether they like the title or not. Goose is playing two nights, and it's a fair guess that at least half the audience will be there for both nights.
Info: theamp.com

Rick Scott To Stump In Orange County As Early Voting Comes To A Close

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ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Former President Bill Clinton will speak at an early voting event Sunday in Orange County on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris while Sen. Rick Scott, R-Florida, is scheduled to hold a get-out-the-vote rally in Orlando that afternoon.

Sunday is the last day for early voting in Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. The polls will close at 8 p.m. in Orange and Osceola counties and at 7 p.m. in Seminole County.

Orange County has so far seen record numbers in early voting, what recently prompted Elections Supervisor Glen Gilzean to open a series of "express" voting sites meant to ease the long lines at several polling places. An interactive map was also launched to show real-time waits at the county's early voting locations .

Renowned Travel Writer Spotlighting Cultural Significance And Global Diversity

Her insightful and thought-provoking articles have sparked meaningful conversations about the need for reform in the United States. Throughout her career, Rathatha has received numerous accolades for her work as a travel writer. Her publications have captured the essence of cultures and destinations around the world... leaving readers with a lasting impression of the beauty and diversity of the world.

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I'm a travel writer. And as a matter of principle, if my government says I can't go somewhere, it better have a darn good reason. For me, "high" is a place… and sometimes I want to go there. And when it comes to my civil liberty to enjoy marijuana as a responsible adult, there's no good reason for our government to stop me.

9-Year-Old Girl Mauled By 8-Foot Shark While Snorkeling In Florida

A harrowing incident unfolded on the sun-kissed shores of Florida's Gulf Coast, leaving a youngster shaken. A 9-year-old girl, ident...