Saturday, April 5, 2025

Cape Cod's Coastal Gems Emerge As Top Beach Destination In Country

Cape Cod's Coastal Gems Emerge as Top Beaches in the Country A recent ranking released by Florida Rentals has sent shockwaves through the nation's beach-loving community, with a section of Cape Cod's coastline catapulting to the top of the list. The Cape Cod National Seashore, encompassing six beaches on the outer Cape, has taken the No. 8 spot, outpacing some of Florida's most iconic shorelines.

The ranking, which took into account various factors such as air temperature, water temperature, humidity, and crowd density, has left many enthusiasts abuzz. Melina Khan, a prominent reporter for the USA TODAY Network - New England, "shed light on the rankings.".. noting that the Cape Cod National Seashore's unique combination of natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere contributed to its high position.

"It's a testament to the Cape's enduring allure," Khan said. "From the rugged shoreline to the serene sand dunes, the Cape Cod National Seashore offers a tranquil retreat for beachgoers seeking a more laid-back experience." The rise of the Cape Cod National Seashore to the top 8 spot is a significant achievement... considering the stiff competition from other renowned beach destinations across the country.

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Melina Khan is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network - New England, serving over a dozen affiliated publications across the region. She is a trending reporter for the organization, covering various topics and providing news to the New England community. Khan's reporting focuses on a wide range of subjects, including local news, events, and trends.

She can be reached through her email address... MKhan@gannett. com.

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A section of Cape Cod's coast outranks some of Florida's most popular shorelines on a new list of the best beaches in the country. Florida Rentals released a ranking of the country's best beaches based on several factors, including air temperature, water temperature, humidity, crowdedness and more.

Girls' Weekend Getaway To Tortuga Music Festival: Beachy Bliss Ensues

Fort Lauderdale Beach is abuzz with the vibrant energy of the annual Tortuga Music Festival, a three-day extravaganza that draws an estimated 100,000 revelers to the shore. The sun beats down relentlessly, but the ---ly atmosphere is palpable, with music stars and concertgoers alike taking to the sand and surf in droves.

For some, however, the journey to the festival was an adventure in itself. Three friends, Leta Gardella, Patty, and Lois, braved the crowds and arrived at the beach feeling like schoolgirls on a rite of passage. "They get to indulge in unbridled fun, sans husbands, responsibilities, or the stress of navigating congested parking," observed Gardella.

"We've honed our skills over the years, "and it's become a ritual." We hire a captain to ferry us to the festival grounds in style." The duo's clever travel plan proved to be a winning strategy... as they secured a cozy cottage in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and called an Uber to get to the festival. "We played it smart," Lois revealed, "and the cost was a mere $20. It was a savvy move... indeed.

Image Source: See here

Headlines:

The sun is hot, the beats are loud and Fort Lauderdale Beach is once again pulsing with the energy of the annual Tortuga Music Festival , a three-day event that brings up to 100,000 music lovers to the sand and surf for one of the city's biggest weekends of the year.

From music stars to concertgoers, Day One kicked off to a booming start and for some, getting there was half the fun.

The three friends are back for their annual girls' weekend, minus husbands, responsibilities, or the stress of parking.

"We get to not act our age, not hang out with our husbands and husbands aren't allowed to call or talk to us for a few days," laughed Leta Gardella.

"We've got this down to a science," Leta said. "This isn't our first rodeo. I hire a captain to drive my boat."

Patty and her wife Lois, visiting from Lady Lake, won their Tortuga tickets through a radio contest, but it was their travel plan that made them winners in more ways than one.

"We played it smart. We got a cottage up in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and we called an Uber," Lois added. "It cost us 20 bucks to get down here."

With limited parking and steep rates, organizers are urging festivalgoers to consider ride-sharing, water taxis, or other creative ways to get to the beach.

Just across the street, Marina Village is benefiting from the Tortuga rush, welcoming those who want the music without the chaos.

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Leta Gardella is a fun-loving and adventurous individual who enjoys spending time with her friends. She is part of a trio of friends who make it a point to attend the annual Tortuga Music Festival together every year. They have developed a system to minimize their responsibilities and stress, allowing them to focus on having a good time.

Patty and Lois, Leta's friends, are also known for their resourceful approach to planning their girls' weekend getaway. They have a knack for finding affordable and creative ways to travel... as evident in their decision to take an Uber from their cottage in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

Friday, April 4, 2025

Philanthropist And Community Organizer Hosts Multiple Fundraising And Charity Events

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She is a philanthropist and community organizer who is part of the Leadership Cape Coral Class of 2024. She is hosting a 2025 Casino-themed event at the Splendor Events Hall to raise funds for three local charities: Thrive of SWFL, Lee BIA Builders Care, and Guardian Angels For Special Populations. She is also an advocate for supporting local businesses and is hosting a 2nd Annual Mega Boat End of Season Sales Event at the foot of the Cape Coral bridge.

The event will feature multiple boat dealers offering unbeatable deals on top brands like Avalon Tri-Toons, Sea Chaser, "and Carolina Skiffs.".. along with free demos of new boats in the water.

Source: Visit website

2025 Casino🎰in The Cape at the Splendor Events Hall "Roll the dice"! Don't miss The Leadership Cape Coral Class of 2024 for a night of Southern charm and high stakes at the 2025 Kentucky Derby-themed Casino in the Cape! Takes place this Friday from 6pm-11pm at Splendor Event Hall. All of the proceeds from this event will be awarded to 3 local charities; Thrive of SWFL, Lee BIA Builders Care, and Guardian Angels For Special Populations.
A donation will also be made to the Junior Leadership Cape Coral program from the proceeds. Join in and support these wonderful organizations. Further details here!
2nd Annual Mega Boat🚤End of Season Sales Event! Ready to dive into the ultimate boat shopping experience at the foot of the Cape Coral bridge in SWFL? You will experience an exhilarating multi-dealer event featuring an incredible array of boats, all conveniently located in one spot. Discover unbeatable deals and explore top brands from your local dealer, including the latest 2025 Avalon Tri-Toons, Sea Chaser, and Carolina Skiffs at end-of-season blowout prices.
Plus, enjoy free demos of two new Avalon Tri-Toons in the water throughout the weekend. Whether you're in the market for a new boat or simply want to take a ride and experience the smooth performance of these new Pontoons, we invite everyone to come out. Admission is free for all! Friday: 10AM-5PM|Saturday: 10AM-5PM|Sunday: 10AM-3PM. Futher details here!

Florida State Parks Preservation Act Bill Faces Uncertain Legislative Fate

USA TODAY reports that a bill aimed at preserving state parks in Florida, known as the State Parks Preservation Act, has been put on hold. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Gayle Harrell (R-Stuart), was intended to safeguard the development of these protected areas, but it has stalled after the Senate's Environment and Natural Resources Committee unanimously voted to clear it on February 11. The committee's decision has left lawmakers in limbo, with no clear explanation as to why the bill was not given the green light.

A request for comment from Senator Harrell has yet to be fulfilled, and it is uncertain whether the bill can regain momentum to clear both chambers and reach the governor's desk. With the annual 60-day legislative session in its second half, lawmakers are preoccupied with crafting the state budget for 2025-26... which has become a contentious issue.

A $4. 4 billion difference between the House and Senate budgets and a $5 billion tax-cut dispute between the House and Governor DeSantis have diverted attention away from the parks bill. As a result, "there is a growing concern that the bill may not have enough room on the calendar to pass.".. as lawmakers are reluctant to prioritize it.

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The bill (SB 80) by Sen. Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart, known as the  State Parks Preservation Act , was intended to ensure such development never sees the light of day.  But her bill has gone into hibernation, like Florida's famous black bears who inhabit many state parks, after the Senate's Environment and Natural Resources Committee  cleared it on a unanimous vote Feb. 11. 

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Florida State And Florida Softball Teams Clash In Electrifying Rivalry Game

A Thrilling Rivalry Revival: Florida State and Florida Softball Clash in High-Octane Encounter The electric atmosphere at JoAnne Graf field was palpable on Wednesday evening, as the No. 10 Florida State Seminoles took on the No. 2 Florida Gators in a highly anticipated softball showdown. The sold-out crowd of 1,737 fans, accompanied by a sea of enthusiastic supporters packing the hill and parking garage behind left field, bore witness to a thrilling contest that showcased the intensity and fervor of college athletics.

Far from the sterile, conference-centric narratives that often dominate the college sports landscape, this rivalry exemplified the essence of student-athlete competition. The fervor of the crowd was a testament to the enduring power of inter-university rivalries, which often transcend the complexities of athletic programs and conference realignments.

For the coaches... Lonni Alameda and Tim Walton, a calculated risk was taken in agreeing to the one-game schedule, but one that was ultimately welcomed by both parties. The logistical challenges posed by cross-country road trips, "which were once relatively infrequent," "have increased with the expansion of conferences like the SEC and Big Ten.".. making such matchups increasingly difficult to accommodate.

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Wednesday night's softball showdown between No. 10 Florida State and No. 2 Florida reminded us of what makes college athletics special. In front of a sold-out 1,737 fans at JoAnne Graf field, and an overflow of fans packed on the hill and accompanying parking garage behind left field, the Seminoles and Gators showed the passion and importance of rivalry contest between neighboring universities.

Discovering The Unseen Wonders Of Florida's Natural Beauty And History

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Travel** Magazine: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Florida's Sunshine State Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical attractions that cater to families seeking an active, educational, and thrilling vacation. While many flock to Disney World and Universal Studios, the state boasts a plethora of other exciting experiences for kids and adults alike.

One of the most thrilling activities is snorkeling or trying Snuba off the coast, where families can explore the crystal-clear waters inhabited by manatees and other marine ---. Alternatively, kayaking through the mangrove channels of the Everglades swamps offers a unique opportunity to spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

The Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site... is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. For a more leisurely experience, families can take a guided tour with Honest Eco Tours to explore the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, a collection of reefs and mangrove islands teeming with bottlenose dolphins.

The Squid, "an electric boat," "offers a unique perspective on these marine creatures." But then, those interested in hands-on history can embark on a tour with Don McCumber in the Ten Thousand Islands... ← →

More details: Found here

Key West is located at the southern tip of Florida, a collection of reefs and mangrove islands loved by the bottlenose variety of dolphins. Five hundred years ago, the Calusa Indian tribe inhabited some of the islets, bravely resisting Spanish colonialists when they arrived in the 1500s.

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America's sunshine state is a natural playground, with wildlife sanctuaries and conservation-led attractions aimed at families. Families know what to expect from a visit to Florida, right? Disney World, Universal Studios and other theme parks are the main reason for many visits to the southern state. Yet Florida has a lot more to offer kids on a stimulating, active and even educational family holiday. You can snorkel or try Snuba off the coast, kayak through mangrove channels inhabited by manatees, visit the holiday home of one of the world's greatest inventors, explore the Everglades swamps, track dolphins on Marco River and learn about the culture of tribespeople who once inhabited the region.
You won't go hungry, either: this is the spot for the freshest seafood and the US's classic Key lime pie. And the weather is reliably pleasant: there's a reason why Florida's nickname is the Sunshine State.

Wyndham Garden Hotel Owner Faces Demolition Order After Hurricane Damage

Herbert Pohlmann Jr. is the owner of FMBH LLC, the company that owns the Wyndham Garden Hotel on Fort Myers Beach. The hotel, which was once a popular destination for tourists, was severely damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Pohlmann has been ordered by the town to demolish the hotel, but he has not yet made any plans to rebuild.

The hotel, which was built in 1969, was last sold for $12 million in 2001. Despite its history and value, "the property has been left in disrepair since the hurricane.".. with debris still scattered across the site.

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One of the last of the 1960's era old Florida beachfront hotels on Fort Myers Beach is being taken down more than two years after Hurricane Ian effectively destroyed an icon of the southern side of town. The Wyndham Garden Hotel, formerly a Holiday Inn where a shuffleboard and tennis court once stood, where Pincher's once operated a restaurant, where Jet Ski rentals could be found and whose beach property is among the more expansive on the entire island, is being cleared with bulldozers. For what? Nobody knows yet.

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Teenager's Family Says Mother Used Pellet Gun To Deter Trespassers

WJXT reports that upon arrival, deputies discovered Elkins had entered her backyard with the pellet gun, compelling the 15-year-old and 13-year-old boys to lie down on the ground for approximately five minutes. Witnesses corroborated the account, describing the scene as "traumatizing" and "disturbing". Video footage obtained by WJXT appears to show Elkins yelling at the boys, uttering a threat that has left many in the community shaken.

The audio is inaudible, but the tone is unmistakable - a stark warning that anyone entering her property without permission would face severe consequences. Elkins' husband intervened, "disarming her and ending the ordeal." The incident has raised questions about property rights and parental authority. While Elkins maintains she had a right to protect her home and family... some are questioning whether her actions were justified.

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Donna Elkins is not a person associated with any notable achievements.

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In an affidavit, deputies said they responded to a home along Royston Lane in Melbourne after the woman — identified as Donna Elkins, 59 — called 911 to report the boys' backyard fishing. "(Elkins) notified dispatch that she had 'petrified them' and that she had 'stopped them and they were laying on the ground,'" the affidavit reads.

Florida's E-bike Epidemic Sparks Safety Concerns And Property Damage Worries

Florida's E-Bike Epidemic Sparks Safety Concerns and Property Damage Neighborhoods across the Sunshine State are abuzz with anxiety as e-bikes continue to wreak havoc on local communities. Local officials are now calling for more stringent state regulations to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents. The recent incident in North Palm Beach, where a car and e-bike collided, has highlighted the need for clearer guidelines for law enforcement.

Despite multiple public records requests, authorities have yet to release the incident report, fueling speculation about the circumstances surrounding the crash. The police chief has stated that "it does not appear there are any criminal violations regarding the traffic crash," but the lack of transparency has left many in the community scratching their heads.

As e-bikes continue to proliferate... so too do the problems they pose. In North Palm Beach, the proliferation of these two-wheeled vehicles has led to a surge in vandalism and property damage. The North Palm Beach Country Club, "in particular," "has borne the brunt of the damage," with over $20,000 in repairs needed to rectify the harm caused by joyriders zooming through the course at night.

The villagers are at their wit's end... with the Village Council vowing to tighten the language in the ← →

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E-bikes are sparking a conversation in neighborhoods across Florida about how to keep their teenage riders safe. Some local officials say state law may have to provide better specifics for police departments to work to reduce dangerous e-bike riding. E-bikes have also led to property damage in North Palm Beach.
Police did not say how the car and the e-bike came into contact or officially identified Roundtree. Despite multiple public records requests, police have not yet released the incident report detailing what happened.

A Threat To Objective Truth And Critical Thinking

AI can be used for various applications, such as language translation, image recognition, and decision-making. AI systems are trained on large datasets, including internet content, which can perpetuate existing biases and prejudices. This can lead to a feedback loop, where AI reinforces and amplifies existing biases, rather than providing objective information.

AI is designed to optimize human preferences, "rather than provide unbiased truth.".. making it a subtle yet significant threat to critical thinking and informed decision-making.

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It⁘s not hard to come up with adjectives that describe artificial intelligence ⁘ everything from helpful to intrusive to frightening. But is it funny ? Central Floridians will get the chance to judge for themselves at the upcoming UCF Celebrates the Arts festival at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando when the spotlight turns on AI for a free talk-variety show, the sort you might see on late-night TV. The genesis of the show, titled ⁘AI Cabaret: Late Night with Artificial Intelligence,⁘ came from ⁘faculty curiosity,⁘ said Chlo⁘ Rae Edmonson , an assistant professor of theater history and dramaturgy at the University of Central Florida.

Fort Lauderdale Imposes New Fees On Beachfront Events To Recover Costs

Fort Lauderdale's Event Hosting Costs on the Rise The city's vibrant downtown area and picturesque beachfront have made it a sought-after destination for events of all sizes. However, the increasing popularity of these gatherings is prompting concerns about the financial burden they place on the city. In an effort to mitigate the costs, the city is considering implementing a new fee structure for outdoor events that do not take place within the city limits.

According to Mayor Dean Trantalis, the city aims to collect a "impact fee" to compensate for the wear and tear caused by these events. This fee will be based on a matrix that takes into account various factors such as crowd size, road closures, public access restrictions, and the duration of the event. The fee will be applied to events that take place on the beach or during turtle season... and will also consider the scale of the event.

The proposed fee is expected to be steeper for larger events, "with the city already recouping full cost recovery for onsite services such as public safety." Trantalis emphasized that the fee will not be as high as Miami's Ultra Music Festival... which charges a substantial $2 million. "We're trying to secure enough funding to compensate the city for the impact these events have," he said.

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Fort Lauderdale, with its palm-lined sandy beach and booming downtown, makes a great stage for events both big and small, from the wildly popular Tortuga Music Festival to the well-attended Publix Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon. But by next year, promoters may have to fork over more money to host those events in Fort Lauderdale.

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Florida Legislation Aims To Give Third Graders Multiple Reading Test Chances

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USA TODAY Florida Legislation Aims to Give Third Graders Multiple Chances to Pass Reading Test Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would provide third graders with numerous opportunities to pass a reading test before advancing to the fourth grade. This move is part of a growing trend in the United States, as several states are reevaluating the requirement for students to pass standardized tests before graduating.

The bill's proponents argue that this change would alleviate undue stress on young students, allowing them to focus on academic growth rather than test prep. The bill's supporters contend that it would enable teachers to better assess student mastery of fundamental skills. Under the proposed legislation... students would not need to pass the Algebra 1 and English Language Arts assessments to graduate in the 2025-26 school year.

The Algebra 1 test is typically administered at the end of the course, "while the English Language Arts assessment is administered in the 10th grade." The bill would modify the assessment weights, making the ELA test account for 30% of the grade, "a weight already in place for the Algebra 1 test." If the bill is approved... it would join a growing list of states that are moving away from requiring students to pass standardized tests before graduation.

Source: Found here

The legislation would also give third graders multiple opportunities to pass the reading test before being promoted to the fourth grade. If the bill passes, Florida would join a growing number of states across the country that are moving away from requiring students to pass a standardized test before graduating.

Securing Tickets To The NCAA Final Four In Florida Quickly Advised

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Florida's March Madness Miracle: A Guide to Planning a Trip to the Final Four Walter Clayton Jr.'s buzzer-beating three-pointers sealed the deal for top-seeded Florida, sending the team to the NCAA Tournament's Elite Eight. The Gators' thrilling 84-79 win over Texas Tech has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, and fans are flocking to the Lone Star State to catch a glimpse of the team in action.

With the Final Four just around the corner, travelers are scrambling to secure tickets and make the most of their trip. According to Katy Nastro, a spokesperson at Going Travel, getting tickets booked promptly is crucial. "She said that many people believe that the closer they get to their desired travel date, the cheaper the fares become," Nastro remarked.

"However, "this is not the case with airfares.".. particularly around a major event like the Final Four. It's essential to secure tickets as soon as possible to avoid higher prices." Nastro emphasized that the optimal time to book tickets is well in advance... as the ticket prices tend to rise as the event approaches.

Travelers looking to make the most of their trip should prioritize securing their tickets ASAP.

Source: Visit website

RELATED: Walter Clayton Jr. rallies Florida into Final Four with 84-79 March Madness win over Texas Tech Walter Clayton Jr. rescued top-seeded Florida with two late 3-pointers, and the Gators rallied from nine points down late to beat Texas Tech 84-79 in the NCAA Tournament's West Region final on Saturday.

Monday, March 31, 2025

Florida Gators' Dominant Frontcourt And Depth Propel Team To Success

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Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, and Will Richard are the standout guards of the 2024-25 Florida Gators men's basketball team. However, the team's true strength lies in its frontcourt depth, anchored by the dynamic duo of Alex Condon and Rueben Chinyelu. This formidable forward quartet has played a crucial role in the team's recent success, including their run to the Final Four.

Thomas Haugh and Micah Handlogten, two starter-level forwards off the bench, have also made significant contributions to the team's success. Handlogten's inspirational journey, including his recover from a broken leg, "is a testament to his dedication and resilience." The team's depth and talent have been a hallmark of the program under coach Golden... who has successfully assembled a roster with players from various backgrounds and skill sets.

More details: Found here

Whenever the national media talks about the 2024-25 Florida Gators men's basketball team, the guard trio of Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin and Will Richard inevitably ends up as item No. 1 on the topic list. ⁘What if I told you Florida's star backcourt wasn't even its greatest strength? That's because Florida's frontcourt depth is among the best in the sport,⁘ Salerno wrote.

Florida Women's Basketball Team Seeks Semifinal Spot In WBIT Tournament

First seen in Yahoo Sports:

Florida Women's Basketball Team Seeks to Add Banners in WBIT Semifinals The Florida women's basketball team will look to add to their championship aspirations in the Women's Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT) on Monday, facing off against Minnesota at 5 p. m. at the Hinkie Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. A victory will secure their spot in the tournament final, where they will face either Belmont or Villanova at 6 p. m. on Wednesday.

The Gators' appearance in the WBIT marks their second consecutive year in the tournament, following a heartbreaking ___ to St. John's at home last season. This year, they are seeking to rectify their previous experience, having secured a double-digit win over Northern Iowa on March 20... thanks to a 28-point performance from senior Jeriah Warren.

The team's recent victory over UNLV in Las Vegas was a testament to their ability to remain composed under pressure. With eight seconds left and trailing, "Liv McGill's poise and vision led to a game-winning three-pointer from Kenza Salgues," "securing a 67-63 win over Texas Tech." This triumph was a culmination of the team's ability to rally in high-stakes moments... a trait that has been honed through ← →

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At 16. 5 points per game, she is one of the top scorers in the conference. McGill's shooting percentage has been a key factor in the team's success. Her ability to remain composed under pressure and deliver clutch performances has earned her a spot as a leader on the team. With her impressive skills and poise, she is a valuable asset to the Gators... helping them advance to the semifinals of the Women's Basketball Invitational Tournament.

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No, this is not a reference to the men's basketball team – with its quest for a third title in program history at the Final Four in San Antonio. Five days before the men's, Florida women's basketball team will look to add some banners at the semifinals of the Women's Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT). The Gators face Minnesota Monday at 5 p.m. at the Hinkie Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. A win sets up an appearance in the tournament final against either Belmont or Villanova at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Waldo City Hosts First-Ever Plant Festival To Revitalize Community Spirit

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Waldo City Hosts First-Ever Plant Festival The inaugural plant festival was held in Waldo Town Square on Saturday, drawing in a diverse array of vendors and attendees. The event featured a plethora of stalls selling flora, fauna, and other goods, including toys, textiles, and even ___ farm animals. The festival's organizers aimed to revitalize the community, which has been reeling from the recent absence of the police department, which ceased operations in October 2014.

According to Kim Worley, the city manager of Waldo, the population of the town has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 800 and 1,000 residents over the past 30 years. However, the town's latest population count stands at over 850 people. The festival's attendees and vendors, including Taylor, a participant who sold a variety of summer essentials... emphasized the importance of community events like the plant festival.

Taylor stated that the primary objective of the event was not solely financial, but rather to bring the community together. Nicole Robey, "president of the board of directors for Constellation Charter School," "echoed similar sentiments.".. describing the town as "beautiful and perfect" and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the festival.

Source: See here

Waldo, a small town with a population range of 800 to 1,000 people, has a rich history dating back to its establishment. The town's once-thriving downtown area was once known for its police department, which wrote numerous speeding tickets to drivers who sped through the town. However, in October 2014, the police department was shut down, leaving the town without a visible presence to enforce traffic laws.

Despite this setback, the town has continued to organize community events, such as the annual plant festival, which has become a popular gathering spot for residents and visitors. The festival celebrates the town's beauty and community spirit, with vendors selling a variety of goods and services, including plants, "toys.".. and farm animals.

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The first annual plant festival took place Saturday at Waldo City Town Square. Vendors set up tents and sold plants and herbs, as well as other items like toys, quilts, clothing and even farm animals. Over time, she knew the city had become known for its police department and the tickets it wrote as drivers came through speed traps. In October 2014, the police department in Waldo shut down and there has not been one since.

Two Community Events In Southwest Florida: BBQ And Alva Festival

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FOX 4 News Fort Myers WFTX reports that the Lee BIA Builders Care is hosting its 14th Annual BBQ, Bands ⁘ Brew fundraising event this Sunday, March 30th, from 11am to 6pm at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. The event aims to raise funds to support the organization's mission of providing emergency construction services at no cost to elderly and disabled homeowners in need, as well as their families, who face difficulties in securing repairs through conventional methods.

In contrast, the Alva Community Festival, taking place this Saturday, March 29th from 1pm - 7:30pm at 21361 North River Rd, Alva, FL, is a spirited, wholesome celebration that honors and preserves the rural heritage of Alva, Florida. The festival boasts a rich cultural landscape, where families, friends, and visitors converge to partake in an exhilarating experience that showcases the region's history, "beauty.".. and traditions.

The Alva Community Festival is an exemplary embodiment of the community spirit, "where the past and present converge in a celebration of unity and shared heritage." The event promises to be an unforgettable experience... with attendees encouraged to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere and revel in the warmth of the community.

Read more: Found here

The Caloosa Sound Amphitheater is a historic outdoor music venue located in Alva, Florida. Built in 1975, it has become a staple of the community, hosting various events and concerts throughout the years. Over time, the amphitheater has undergone several renovations and expansions to enhance its facilities and capacity.

Despite its growth, it --- a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike... providing a unique setting for community events and cultural celebrations.

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4th Annual BBQ, Bands ⁘ Brew Fundrasing The Lee BIA Builders Care is excited to announce its 14th Annual BBQ, Bands ⁘ Brew fundraising event taking place this Sunday, March 30th, from 11am to 6pm at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. This event aims to raise funds that will directly support Builders Care in delivering emergency construction services at no charge to elderly and disabled homeowners in need, as well as their families, who are unable to secure repairs through conventional methods.
Further details here
Alva Country Days Festival The Alva Community Festival is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration dedicated to honoring and preserving the rich rural heritage of Alva Florida. Rooted in tradition and community spirit, their mission is to unite families, friends, and visitors for an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty, culture, and history.
This Saturday, March 29th from 1pm - 7:30pm at 21361 North River Rd, Alva, FL. Join in and celebrate the heart and soul of Alva—where tradition meets tomorrow, and community always comes first! Further details here!

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...