Florida's Medicaid Expansion Effort Delayed Due To New State Law

Florida's Medicaid expansion effort, spearheaded by Florida Decides Healthcare (FDH), has hit a snag. The organization announced it will suspend its bid to qualify for the 2026 ballot and instead aim for 2028. This decision comes in response to a new state law, HB 1205, which has significantly raised costs and imposed stricter rules on ballot initiatives.

Emerson, a representative of FDH, expressed frustration with the sudden changes, likening it to being in the middle of a basketball game when the referees introduce a new four-point line without clarifying its location. He argues that state leadership is to blame for the effort's shift to the next election cycle. Critics, including Governor Ron DeSantis, have voiced concerns that HB 1205 is designed to create hurdles for accessing Florida's ballot. DeSantis stated that these initiatives should not be manipulable in such a way and that the constitution should not be for sale to the highest bidder.

Despite the setback, FDH has made significant progress, collecting over 200,000 petitions, raising $6 million, and assembling a coalition of more than 100 grassroots organizations across Florida.

Florida Decides Healthcare (FDH) announced this week it will suspend efforts to qualify for the 2026 ballot and instead aim for 2028, blaming a new ...

Other references and insights: Visit website

Discovering The Hidden Gems Of Florida's Islands

In the vast expanse of Florida's aquatic landscape, a multitude of islands beckon, each with its own unique charm. According to Wikipedia, there are over 4,510 islands in Florida that span more than ten acres. However, the actual number is likely in the thousands, considering the numerous islands under ten acres that dot the state's coastline. The Sunshine State's islands have a rich and varied history, having served as havens for Native Americans, pirates, and even prisoners sentenced for crimes.

Many of these islands remain uninhabited or abandoned, their secrets waiting to be unearthed by intrepid explorers. For those seeking a tranquil retreat, Florida offers a diverse range of islands to visit, from plush resort islands to remote, barely inhabited ones. According to South Florida Reporter, 19 alluring islands are worth visiting, showcasing the state's incredible diversity.

One such island is St. George Island, located off the Gulf coast near Apalachicola. The western side of the island has some development, but the eastern side boasts miles of pristine, natural beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude. As noted by South Florida Reporter, St.

There is nothing like being surrounded by water on a Florida island visit. Just how many islands in Florida?

Looking to read more like this: See here

Virginia Cavaliers Stun No. 8 Florida State In Double Overtime Thriller

In a stunning upset, the Virginia Cavaliers threw a major wrench into the ACC title race with a thrilling 46-38 double-overtime win over No. 8 Florida State. This signature victory marked a turning point in coach Tony Elliott's tenure, as the Cavaliers improved to 4-1 with a favorable schedule ahead. The Cavaliers' quarterback, Chandler Morris, delivered a standout performance, going 26 of 35 for 229 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

Morris added three rushing scores, including the go-ahead touchdown in double overtime, showcasing his skill and determination. His experience at Oklahoma, TCU, and North Texas has prepared him for high-pressure situations like this. The game was a nail-biter, with Virginia pulling off its first victory over a top-10 team since 2023. The Cavaliers' win avoided a potential matchup between Miami and Georgia Tech in the ACC title game later this season, shaking up the conference standings.

In the second overtime period, Morris scrambled for a 4-yard go-ahead touchdown, and the ensuing 2-point conversion was successful. Florida State nearly tied the game when Tommy Castellanos found Duce Robinson for a 22-yard touchdown, but the catch was ruled incomplete after instant review.

Friday marked the signature win of coach Tony Elliott's tenure at Virginia. The Cavaliers have yet to reach bowl eligibility under Elliott, but at ...

Here's one of the sources for this article: Visit website

Pensacola's Bruce Beach Revitalization Project Named One Of Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Bright Ideas

In the realm of travel and exploration, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The City of Pensacola, a coastal gem in northwest Florida, has been recognized for its innovative approach to waterfront development. The Bruce Beach Revitalization Project, a collaborative effort between the city, community advocates, and Visit Pensacola, has earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious 2025 Bright Ideas list.

This distinction is not merely a nod to the project's aesthetic appeal, but a testament to its commitment to inclusive development and authentic storytelling. The Bruce Beach project has become a model for reimagining public spaces, one that celebrates Pensacola's rich history while fostering a sense of community.

Darien Schaefer, president and CEO of Visit Pensacola, expressed pride in the recognition, highlighting the years of collaboration that have brought this vision to ---. The project's national and local attention has contributed to its selection, showcasing the power of collective effort in shaping the future of travel.

Mayor DC Reeves, who has been instrumental in the project's evolution, reflected on the community's dedication to bringing this vision to fruition. This honor not only validates the hard work of the community but also solidifies Pensacola's position as a must-visit destination, poised to drive growth in tourism ← →

PENSACOLA, Fla. ( WKRG ) — The City of Pensacola, as well as the Bruce Beach Revitalization Project, have been named to the 'Condé Nast Traveler's ...

You might also find this intersting: See here

Into The Wild Illuminates Central Florida Zoo

The Asian Lantern Festival is set to illuminate the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens for the sixth consecutive year. This all-ages holiday event, dubbed "Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild," will take place on select nights from November 14 to January 18, 2026. According to an article by Orlando Weekly, the festival will feature an array of handcrafted lanterns along a 3 → 4-mile loop, aglow with over 10,000 LED lights.

The zoo will be transformed into a vibrant wonderland, perfect for families and individuals alike. Tickets for the festival will go on sale online October 1, with purchasers required to select specific entry times of 6, 7, or 8 p. m. It is essential to note that walk-up ticket purchases will not be available. In a thoughtful gesture, the festival will host two designated "Sensory Nights" on December 3 and January 13. These special evenings cater to individuals with disabilities or sensory sensitivities, ensuring that everyone can partake in the magic of the festival.

As the Asian Lantern Festival returns to the Central Florida Zoo, it promises to be an enchanting experience, blending natural beauty with artistic expression.

The Asian Lantern Festival all-ages holiday event heads back into the wild world of Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens for its sixth year ...

Looking to read more like this: Check here

Shane Gillis: A Rising Star In Comedy

Published by Sun Sentinel:

Shane Gillis: A Rising Star in Comedy** Shane Gillis is an American comedian, actor, and television personality. Born on June 24, 1987, in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Gillis began his career in comedy, performing stand-up shows in local bars and clubs. His breakthrough came in 2016 when he appeared on _The Late Show with Stephen Colbert_. Gillis's unique blend of humor, often drawing from his Pennsylvania roots, quickly gained him a following.

In 2020, he became a correspondent on _The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon_, further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry. Gillis has also made headlines for his humorous advertisements for Bud Light, showcasing his ability to connect with a wide audience. With his growing popularity, Gillis has been touring and performing at various venues, including his recent shows at Hard Rock --- in Hollywood.

It's the first weekend of fall, and as it starts to cool down (almost imperceptibly), things start to heat up (obviously) on the cultural calendar.

Here's one of the sources for this article: Check here

New Proposal Could Get Rid Of Florida Sales Tax For These Items

That proposal — Senate Bill 78 — was initially filed by state Sen. Rosalind Osgood (D-32) on Wednesday afternoon. Under this bill, a couple of home hardening products would be added to the list of goods that are exempt from the state's sales tax . Although the bill was filed this week, it will have to wait until the 2026 Florida Legislature to begin before it can receive further consideration.

And even if it's approved, the bill won't take effect until July 1, 2026. That being said, if the bill does manage to pass the Legislature and gets the governor's signature, these home-hardening products will join the list of other items that are already exempt from the sales tax. The budget also sets up a permanent back-to-school sales tax holiday that will take place throughout August each year.

Find some other details related to this article: See here

St. Augustine, Florida, Ranked As World's Top Old Town For Charm

According to 104.5 WOKV:

In a recent study, Tourlane, a leading online specialist for customized travel planning, identified St. Augustine, Florida, as the top-ranking old town in the world for its charm. This comprehensive analysis evaluated 65 cities across five global regions, including the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East-North Africa. The study assessed the age of each city, the cost of a guided tour, pedestrian appeal, and social media popularity as a photo spot.

St. Augustine, founded in 1565, boasts a rich history, with colonial buildings from Spanish settlers and the imposing Castillo de San Marcos. The city's old town is remarkably walkable, scoring 100 → 100 points, making it an ideal destination for travelers to explore on foot. Guided city tours are available for approximately $35. Roman Karin, Head of Travel Experience at Tourlane, praises St. Augustine's unique blend of history and pedestrian-friendly layout. "What truly sets St. Augustine apart in the United States is its walkable old town, surrounded by the sea and tides.

Here, history, not traffic, defines the experience, inviting you to explore every charming corner on foot." For those seeking to discover more charming old towns, Tourlane's study provides valuable insights.

Tourlane , a leading online specialist for customized travel planning, has identified the most charming old towns across five global regions.

Find some other details related to this article: Visit website

Florida Panthers Unveil Expanded Broadcasting Lineup For 2025-26 Season

The Florida Panthers' broadcasting landscape is set to expand with a slew of exciting programming announcements from Scripps Sports. As the team gears up for the 2025-26 season, fans can expect a comprehensive coverage of Panthers hockey. At the forefront of this new programming is the weekly 'Primetime Panthers' show, which promises to deliver in-depth analysis and captivating storylines.

The inaugural episode is slated to air on October 1 at 7 p. m. ET, featuring highlights from the players' summer with the Stanley Cup. In addition to 'Primetime Panthers,' Scripps Sports is also introducing 'Panthers 360,' a new program designed to provide fans with an all-encompassing look at the team. For those seeking more Panthers content, PanthersPlus. TV offers a treasure trove of past episodes and exclusive material.

Further details on the Panthers' broadcasting schedule can be found on nhl. com, which provides an exhaustive breakdown of the team's programming lineup for the upcoming season.

Panthers Hockey on Scripps Sports to Feature Weekly ⁘Primetime Panthers⁘ Show, New ⁘Panthers 360⁘ Program and More

You might also find this intersting: See here

Ancient Creatures Of Florida: Exploring The Fascinating World Of American Alligators

In the swampy heart of Florida, a creature has been thriving for over 200 million years, its lineage tracing back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The American alligator, a species that has undergone remarkably little evolutionary change since the Mesozoic era, continues to fascinate and intrigue. WJXT, a source for this article, reports that these ancient creatures can be found in their natural habitat, but for a truly immersive experience, one need look no further than the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. A recent visit to the park, featured in a 4 Your Neighborhood spotlight, provided a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating animals.

Under the guidance of Jim Darlington, the zoological park's resident alligator curator, a firsthand encounter with the alligators was had. Among the many interesting facts about alligators is their remarkable ability to leap straight up in the air, a feat that belies their seemingly sluggish demeanor. Alligators have a distinctive feeding behavior, characterized by a chomping motion rather than chewing.

For those eager to learn more about these incredible creatures, a video featuring a conversation between Bruce and Jim Darlington offers a wealth of information.

American alligators appeared about 84 million years ago, and their ancestors evolved more than 200 million years ago.

Looking to read more like this: Check here

A Hotel Manager's Survival Story And Heroic Actions During Hurricane Ian

Alex Cass is a hotel manager who gained attention for his survival story during Hurricane Ian in 2022. While information about his early ___ and education is scarce, his experience as the former hotel manager of the Carousel Beach Inn on Fort Myers Beach has been well-documented. As a hotel manager, Cass was responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of his guests.

His decision to evacuate on September 27, 2022, proved crucial in saving ___s. The storm made landfall on Cayo Costa, just north of Fort Myers Beach, as a Category 4 hurricane, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Cass's actions during the hurricane have been recognized as a testament to his quick thinking and leadership.

His story serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and decisive action in the face of natural disasters. Despite the challenges he faced, Cass's experience has likely shaped his perspective on crisis management and hotel operations. The Carousel Beach Inn, where Cass worked, was unfortunately destroyed in the storm.

However, his survival story has highlighted the resilience and adaptability of individuals in the face of adversity. As a hotel manager, Cass's primary concern is the safety and satisfaction of his guests, and his actions during Hurricane Ian demonstrate his commitment to this responsibility.

That's when Alex Cass made the decision: He and all his hotel guests had to get out of there. Fast.

You can find out even more here: See here

Gunfire Erupts In Pembroke Pines Apartment Complex

A domestic dispute escalated into gunfire at an apartment complex in Pembroke Pines, leaving one woman injured and a suspect in custody. The incident unfolded just before noon on a typical day, with residents near University Drive and Pembroke Pines Boulevard reporting a sudden burst of gunfire. Eyewitnesses, like Williams, described the chaos that erupted on the first floor of his building, where two individuals were exchanging gunfire.

Pembroke Pines police responded swiftly, arriving at the scene of Northwest 78th Terrace and Northwest 3rd Street shortly before 11 a. m. According to emergency radio transmissions, a first responder described the situation as dire, noting that the shooter was an ex-husband and the woman had been shot in the neck.

Fortunately, she was stabilized, and authorities were able to apprehend the suspect a couple of miles east at a Valero gas station on Hollywood Boulevard. The suspect, who fled the scene in a gray Mercedes, was taken into custody without further incident. Officials confirmed that no additional suspects were at large, but advised residents to avoid the area while crime scene technicians processed the complex on Tuesday afternoon.

(cbsnews.

Just before noon, residents near University Drive and Pembroke Pines Boulevard reported hearing a burst of gunfire.

You might also find this intersting: See here

'Naked Ambition,' About Bunny Yeager

She became known at one point in her career as "The World's Prettiest Photographer." But the accomplishments of Bunny Yeager — the Miami Beach artist, model, feminist pioneer and icon — can't be summed up with one simple, reductive label. Her snaps — as well as the photos in which she appeared — combined a virginal view of domestic goddesses who were also wellsprings of teenage rebellion.

They also accomplished everything from popularizing bikinis to creating the idea of the modern-day selfie. Among her models was the notorious Bettie Page , the S⁘M photo star who met Yeager during a visit to Miami Beach and became one of her most popular subjects, including a "Playmate of the Month" stint in 1955 in Playboy magazine (Yeager snapped that picture as well). "There's something inherently female about the way she sees her models," says Hollywood actress and screenwriter Guinevere Turner about Yeager in the film, which opens Friday, Sept. 26, at Cinema Paradiso Hollywood, O Cinema Miami Beach and Coral Gables Art Cinema.

"Naked Ambition" is the second collaboration between Scholl, the former president/CEO of Oolite Arts, and Tabsch, co-founder of the art film haven O Cinema, who are both established filmmakers.
The duo previously co-directed the 2018 documentary "The Last Resort," a tribute to the work of photographers Andy Sweet and Gary Monroe, which doubled as an eloquent history of Miami Beach and its 1970s heyday as a haven for fun-loving retirees from around the nation.

Looking to read more like this: See here

Discovering Florida's Autumnal Charm: Sun-Kissed Beaches And Cozy Fall Escapes

As October descends upon Florida, the Sunshine State transforms into a unique blend of warmth and coziness. The gentle ocean breeze carries the sweet scent of pumpkin spice lattes, while the warm sand beneath one's feet --- a constant reminder of the state's stunning coastline. For those seeking a day trip that combines the best of both worlds – sun-kissed beaches and autumnal charm – Florida has plenty to offer.

In Destin, the emerald waters and sugary white sand create a picturesque backdrop for a day of relaxation. The Destin Seafood Festival, as noted in "Ever After in the Woods," is a must-visit, with its freshly grilled Gulf shrimp and fall spices wafting through the air. Visitors can stroll along Harbor Walk Village, browsing seasonal crafts and savoring autumn-inspired seafood dishes.

The Fishing Rodeo adds an exciting element, with daily weigh-ins and a ---ly atmosphere. As the evening cools, visitors can enjoy a light sweater and indulge in pumpkin-spiced desserts at waterfront restaurants. With smaller crowds in October, Destin becomes an even more enchanting destination. Cape San Blas, a hidden gem on the Forgotten Coast, offers an authentic coastal fall experience.

Florida's October is unlike anywhere else—you can soak up sunshine on the beach in the morning and still dive into fall festivities by the ...

Here's one of the sources for this article: Visit website

Tampa Pride Cancels All 2026 Events And Dumps President

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' antipathy against diversity means Tampa Pride will be cancelled — again. The Tampa Pride Board announced it won't hold its Tampa Pride Festival, Diversity Parade, or any associated events in 2026, and would not renew the contract for the organization's president, Carrie West . The move came just two years after Tampa canceled its Pride on the River event in the wake of DeSantis signing an anti-drag law . While that law remains unenforceable based on an appellate court ruling from May , cities in Florida concerned about the law have forced other pride events out of public view.

That sort of pushback appeared less likely in Tampa, one of Florida's largest municipalities and one with an out mayor , Jane Castor, who just in June flew a rainbow flag over City Hall for Pride Month. But the letter from the board makes it clear the greater concerns for Tampa Pride's future are financial.

"Carrie, your remarkable dedication and unwavering service as President of Tampa Pride over the past 12 years have been deeply valued. The Board, Directors, committee members, and the community are profoundly grateful for your tireless efforts and leadership, which have left a lasting impact on our organization and the many events you have brought to the city and county that had showcased our unique inclusive area across the country," the letter reads.

This article originally appeared on Advocate: Tampa Pride cancels all 2026 events and dumps president Find some other details related to this article: Check here

South Florida Events Showcase Food, Wine, And Community This Weekend

As the final days of summer dwindle, South Florida is abuzz with events that showcase the region's vibrant cultural scene. This weekend, from September 18 to 21, locals and visitors alike can indulge in a variety of activities that highlight the area's love for food, wine, and community. For those seeking a unique wine experience, the Small Wine Shop in downtown Fort Lauderdale is hosting a sunset tasting cruise called "Wines of the Mediterranean Coast" on Friday. According to the Sun Sentinel, this event promises to be an unforgettable evening, with guests boarding a double-decker boat at 6:30 p. m. at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina and setting off at 7 p.

m. sharp. The two-hour Intracoastal sailing will feature a selection of Mediterranean wines, accompanied by an after-party at Olive & Sea, where cruisers can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with dinner. Tickets for this exclusive event are available for $75 per person and can be purchased on the Small Wine Shop's website. Meanwhile, Miami-based chef and restaurateur Michelle "Michy" Bernstein is bringing the bold flavors of her newest eatery, La Cañita, to the Hard Rock in Hollywood for a Hispanic Heritage Month-aligned pop-up.

Leafing through the Old Farmer's Almanac while waiting for one of the plump cinnamon rolls at Fort Lauderdale's LoveLee Bakeshop (tops on my list of...

Looking to read more like this: Visit website

UCF Coach Scott Frost Uses Bill Belichick's Comment As Motivation For Team

The rivalry between college football teams often transcends the gridiron, with coaches and players engaging in a delicate dance of mind games and motivation. Recently, UCF Knights' coach Scott Frost revealed that a comment from New England Patriots' coach Bill Belichick had served as a rallying cry for his team.

Frost disclosed that Belichick's reference to UCF as "Central Florida" during a press conference had not gone unnoticed. The remark, though perhaps innocuous, was seized upon by Frost as a chance to instill a sense of pride and motivation within his team. "This is only my third season coaching at UCF, but I've been around coach (Sean) Beckton a lot and Travis Fisher a lot, and that kind of seems like the ammo of UCF," Frost explained.

The notion that UCF was being overlooked and underappreciated resonated deeply with Frost, who has experienced firsthand the skepticism surrounding his team. "Going a long way back, little disrespected ... we're not Central Florida, we're UCF," he emphasized. This sentiment was echoed in the team's performance on the field, as they dominated the Tar Heels 34-9. According to CBSSports.

Bill Belichick unintentionally jabbed UCF ahead of Saturday's game against the Knights after calling them "Central" earlier this week during a press...

Looking to read more like this: See here

AAA Warns Of Travel Chaos As Millions Hit The Road For Labor Day Weekend

As Labor Day approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for a well-deserved three-day weekend, and AAA is sounding the alarm on potential travel chaos. The holiday, which falls on Monday, September 1, marks the unofficial end of summer and a final chance for many to squeeze in a last-minute getaway before the fall routine begins.

Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, notes that while some travelers are opting for exotic cruises or European vacations, many are choosing to stay closer to home, embarking on road trips to nearby beaches or national parks. For those planning a domestic adventure, Seattle and Vancouver have emerged as top destinations, largely due to their popularity as port cities for Alaska cruises.

In Florida, residents can expect to share the roads with thousands of fellow travelers, as two cities in the state - although not specified which - have made it onto AAA's Top 10 domestic destinations list. The news on gas prices is a welcome respite for travelers, with summer prices remaining low. According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gas on Labor Day last year was $3. 33, and barring any disruptions to Gulf Coast refineries, prices are expected to stay below that threshold in 2025.

Labor Day is Monday, Sept. 1, which means a  three-day weekend  for most of the country and a lot of travelers on the road, according to AAA .

Other references and insights: See here

City Garage Motorsports Makes History With All-Female Driver Lineup For 2026 Season

In a groundbreaking move, City Garage Motorsports, a small, part-time ARCA Menards Series team based in Florida, has made history by announcing an all-female driver lineup for the 2026 season. Becca Monopoli and Quinn Davis will spearhead this unprecedented effort, marking a significant milestone in the world of motorsports.

The team's theme, # GRLDRVR, will be prominently featured across their merchandise, social media, and press releases. Monopoli, a seasoned racer from central Florida, boasts an impressive 99 career wins across various series and classes, notably with her family-owned truck team. Her experience with CGM has yielded 11 starts, with a notable eighth-place finish at Nashville Superspeedway in ARCA East competition, as well as a pair of 11th-place finishes in the main ARCA Series. She will continue to compete in the Orlando Health-sponsored No. 85 Ford Fusion. According to Stuart Weiss, team owner of CGM, Monopoli and Davis have earned their spots through their exceptional talent, hard work, and impressive results.

Weiss emphasized that racing is a merit-based sport, where passion, dedication, and a desire to compete are the true determinants of success.

Becca Monopoli and Quinn Davis will form the first all-female team in ARCA history in 2026. Photo courtesy City Garage Motorsports.

Here's one of the sources for this article: Check here

Miami Hurricanes Dominate Florida Gators With Convincing 26-7 Victory

The Miami Hurricanes asserted their dominance over their arch-rivals, the Florida Gators, with a convincing 26-7 victory at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This triumph was largely fueled by an outstanding defensive performance, which stifled the Gators' ---se and paved the way for a decisive win. CharMar Brown, the Hurricanes' running back, showcased his skills with 18 rushes for 80 yards and two rushing touchdowns, setting the tone for the team's ground attack.

Mark Fletcher Jr. complemented Brown's efforts with 24 rushes for 116 yards and a score, capping off an impressive display of rushing prowess. In contrast, Florida's quarterback, Carson Beck, had a relatively off day, completing 17 of 30 passes for 160 yards and throwing an interception. The Hurricanes' defense was relentless, and their ---se capitalized on the momentum, with Mark Fletcher Jr. scoring from the 1-yard line to seal the win with 1:56 remaining. According to USA TODAY, this victory marked a significant upset, as the Hurricanes proved their mettle against a formidable opponent.

The Hurricanes' defense was the star of the show, holding the Gators to a mere 7 points and limiting their scoring ← →

The No. 7 Hurricanes defeated rival Florida 26-7 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida , on Saturday, Sept.

Other references and insights: Visit website

Proposal For Florida Springs National Park Sparks Debate Among Conservationists

In the heart of Florida, a proposal to create the country's 64th national park has sparked debate among conservation advocates. U. S. Rep Randy Fine's Path to Florida Springs National Park Act aims to stitch together a patchwork of springs in North and Central Florida, spanning 2,800 miles of land, into a national park.

According to Yahoo News, Fine's bill calls Florida's springs "as miraculous as any other national asset we have in this country." Fine, R-Melbourne Beach, envisions the springs, located south of Jacksonville, north of Orlando, and east of Gainesville, as a protected area, much like Yellowstone. He believes that a national park designation would ensure sustainable development and preservation of the state's crucial freshwater resource.

However, some leading conservation advocates are skeptical about the effectiveness of a national park designation in addressing the major issues threatening the natural marvels. They argue that increased visitation and traffic could exacerbate the problems, rather than alleviate them. Florida's more than 1,000 springs, the largest concentration of freshwater springs in the world, are under threat from development, agricultural pollution, and climate change.

A Florida congressman's proposal to stitch together a patchwork of springs in North and Central Florida into the country's 64th national park won't ...

Looking to read more like this: Visit website

A Haven For Black Americans During The Era Of Segregation

Background Document: Paradise Park Resort and its Historical Significance** Paradise Park, a resort located along the Silver Springs in Florida, holds a significant place in American history, particularly during the era of segregation. Established in 1949, the resort operated until 1969, providing a rare haven for Black Americans to enjoy Florida's natural beauty without facing discriminatory practices.

Early Years and Operations The resort was nestled along the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs, offering a serene and picturesque environment. During its operational years, Paradise Park provided various recreational activities, including glass-bottom boat rides, picnic groves, and --- music on summer evenings.

These activities allowed families to create lasting memories, fostering a sense of community and joy. Historical Context and Significance Paradise Park's existence was a testament to the resilience of Black Americans during a time of segregation. The resort served as a sanctuary, offering a space where families could escape the constraints of discriminatory laws and social norms.

The beach, with its pristine sand and water, symbolized freedom, providing a rare opportunity for Black families to enjoy Florida's beaches, which were largely inaccessible to them due to segregation. Personal Accounts and Memories Personal accounts from individuals who visited Paradise Park during its heyday highlight the ← →

Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs, Paradise Park once stood as a haven for Black Americans during segregation.

Looking to read more like this: See here