Styx Announces 2026 Rockin' In Paradise Festival Lineup

The sun-kissed shores of Florida are set to reverberate with the sounds of classic rock as Styx announces the lineup for their 2026 Rockin' in Paradise festival. Scheduled to take place from October 8th to 10th in Miramar Beach, the event promises to be a celebration of music, camaraderie, and beachside revelry. Styx, the iconic rock band, will headline two special shows, sharing the stage with an impressive array of artists.

Yacht Rock Review, 38 Special, Tesla, Don Felder, Marshall Tucker Band, and Jefferson Starship will all bring their unique brand of rock 'n' roll to the festival, ensuring that attendees are treated to a diverse and thrilling musical experience. As the band prepares for this exciting event, they are also gearing up for a busy 2026, which includes a five-show Las Vegas residency at The Venetian Theatre, a summer tour with Chicago, and several dates with Cheap Trick. For fans eager to get an exclusive glimpse into the band's preparations, a presale is currently underway, offering the chance to win a spot at a private soundcheck by Styx.

Styx has announced the lineup for their 2026 Rockin' in Paradise with Styx + Friends beach weekend.

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The Rise Of A High School Swimming Star

In the pantheon of high school swimming, a new star has emerged. The 2025 Southwest Florida Girls Swimmer of the Year, Ava Burke, has taken the aquatic world by storm. As a freshman at Barron Collier High School, Burke's impressive performance in the pool has earned her numerous accolades and a promising future. Burke's remarkable season was marked by a sweep of district and regional titles in the 100 and 200 freestyle races.

Her contributions to the Cougars' Class 2A-District 9 championship and victories in the 200 free and 400 free relays at regionals solidified her position as a force to be reckoned with. At the Class 2A state meet, Burke not only claimed first place in the 100 and 200 free but also shattered her personal best times, posting All-American times in both events.

According to The Arizona Republic, Burke's achievements have saved national attention, earning her an invitation to USA Swimming's National Select Camp in October and a spot at the Speedo Winter Junior National Championships in Indianapolis. Her impressive performance at the state meet, where she helped the Cougars finish second in the 200 free relay and third in the 400 free relay ← →

At the end of each season, The News-Press and Naples Daily News select All-Area teams honoring the best athletes for every varsity sport.

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How Florida Football Defense Graded Out For 2025 Season

The Florida football defense was hoping to ride the momentum from how it closed the 2024 season into the 2025 campaign. But a training camp injury to preseason All-SEC Florida Gators defensive tackle Caleb Banks hindered that progress. Florida played well defensively in its first four games, pitching a shutout against Long Island and holding its first four opponents to an average of 16.0 points.

Still, UF couldn't get key stops when needed in the second half in losses against USF, LSU and Miami. Injuries mounted, as Florida lost sophomore edge rusher LJ McCray to a broken foot against USF and cornerback Dijon Johnson to a torn ACL against Miami. The 6-foot-6, 330-pound Banks re-injured his foot against LSU and wound up appearing in just two more games (Tennessee and FSU) the rest of the season.

Overall, Florida surrendered an average of 376.8 yards per game, which ranked 13th out 16 teams in the SEC. In scoring defense, though, UF ranked 12th in the league, giving up 24.0 points per contest. Florida was unable to get teams off the field on third down throughout the 2025 season, ranking 15th out of 16 SEC teams in third-down defense in allowing opponents to convert 44.4% of the time.

Myles Graham, LB: The 6-foot-1, 228-pound Graham led Florida in tackles (72) and quarterback hurries (7) in 2025, while posting 2 sacks and 4 pass breakups. Graham announced on social he will be back in 2026 and could thrive in new head coach Jon Sumrall's 3-4 scheme. More takeaways: Check here

Here Is A Potential Florida Homeowner's Desperate Stand Against HOA Leads To Fugitive Status

In the sun-kissed community of Wesley Chapel, Florida, a quiet suburban neighborhood was disrupted by a contentious dispute between a homeowner and her HOA. Ying Pang, a elderly woman who immigrated from China over three decades ago, found herself at the center of a heated controversy that ultimately led her to become a fugitive.

Pang, a licensed medical technologist, has owned a two-story home in the 850-home community since 2010, where the median list price is a staggering $580,000. However, her --- took a drastic turn in 2018 when her HOA began citing her for various infractions, including parking violations, holiday lights, garbage containers left out too long, and discoloration on her home.

Over the past seven years, Pang claims she has been hit with around 100 violations, each one requiring her to make changes to her property. Despite her efforts to comply, the violations continued, leading Pang to believe that the HOA had singled her out for targeting. In a desperate bid to resolve the issue, Pang repeatedly pressure-washed and painted her home, but to no avail.

As the situation escalated, Pang's troubles were compounded by issues with her renters and their guests, who allegedly caused problems in ← →

Ying Pang, who owns a two-story home in Wesley Chapel, arrived at a Scripps News Group newsroom in Tampa for an interview in a borrowed SUV that has...

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12 Most Beautiful Florida Beach Towns To Add To Your 2026 Travel List

Salt air has a way of sharpening your appetite, and Florida's prettiest beach towns reward that feeling with a kind of sensory clarity that blends sunlight, sand, and small rituals you only learn by walking slowly enough to notice how the tide rearranges the shoreline from morning to evening, creating a rhythm that pulls you back before you even realize you are forming a habit.

As you move along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, you start recognizing the subtle changes between boardwalk bustle and quiet residential stretches where beaches feel almost private, and in those transitions you discover towns that are neither flashy nor forgotten. But instead confident in their own pace, shaped by local families, long fishing histories, and an unhurried way of welcoming strangers that never feels staged.

You meet places where the sand is pale and fine like sifted flour, where pastel houses lean into breezes that smell of sunscreen and salt, where the evening light deepens into a glow that makes even a short walk feel like a small ceremony. This list follows that feeling, mapping out coastal spots where wandering is encouraged, where food arrives as part of the landscape rather than the destination, and where slowing down becomes the only sensible itinerary.

Morning light stretches across the piers in long, pale beams, and the island feels like a place content to keep its own pace, unhurried and lightly perfumed with salt rising from the Gulf. Wooden boardwalks frame views where pelicans glide low along the surface, and neighborhoods stitched with sea grapes and palms create pockets of shade that seem to breathe with the tide.

Bikes drift past cottages with peeling paint that reads more like character than neglect, inviting you to slow down and follow the island curve without a plan. The beaches are wide and quiet early in the day, and the fine white sand compresses underfoot like sifted flour that seems incapable of holding heat.

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A Premier Destination For Sports, Sun, And Endless Entertainment

Article from South Florida Reporter:

South Florida's allure as a top US travel destination --- unwavering. In 2024, the region welcomed over 23 million visitors, with the numbers continuing to swell. The area's appeal extends beyond its sun-kissed beaches, as Miami Beach, Coral Gables' charming Spanish-style streets, and Mallory Square's breathtaking sunsets in Key West remain bustling well into the winter months.

For sports enthusiasts, South Florida is a haven. Many hotel bars and neighborhood pubs screen Dolphins, Heat, or Marlins games on most game nights, allowing visitors to follow local teams with a drink in hand. The atmosphere is ---ly, with groups gathered around screens, discussing coaching calls and sometimes placing small bets through bar partners or local kiosks.

Some guests may even keep a laptop open in their room, casually checking predictions and odds before making informed decisions. Crypto platforms enable them to place modest bets on various leagues, including the Premier League, NBA, or World Cup 2026 qualifiers, all while technically on vacation in Miami. This sports-centric aspect is merely a complement to the region's primary attractions.

For most visitors, it's a side hobby, not the main reason for their trip. With clear distances between destinations, travelers can plan their days in manageable blocks, avoiding long ← →

South Florida earns its crowds. South Florida is not just on the map; it is full. In 2024 South Florida drew over 23 million visitors, and the flow ...

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Florida To Expand Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park By 74 Acres

In a move that promises to bolster conservation efforts and recreational opportunities, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has announced plans to expand Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park by 74 acres. This addition, made possible by the state's purchase of the Florida Future Farmers of America property, will bring the total acreage of the park to over 8,000 acres, east of Lake Pierce. The expansion, approved by the Florida Cabinet in December 2024 for $7. 45 million, will see the introduction of new amenities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and environmental education programs.

The park's diverse landscape, which encompasses scrub, sandhill, and flatwood habitats, is home to six miles of hiking trails and 65 acres of submerged land. Notably, the newly acquired property boasts over 6,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Pierce, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for water-based activities. The property also features The Ridge Environmental Education and Event Center, which will enhance visitor access and resource-based recreation. The acquisition of this former FFA property is a significant win for conservation efforts, as it lies within the Florida Wildlife Corridor, a crucial swath of land that facilitates the movement of large animals.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced plans to add 74 acres to Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park.

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The Founding And Evolution Of Hollywood

In the realm of South Florida, where the sun dips into the ocean and paints the sky with hues of crimson and gold, the city of Hollywood stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Joseph Young. A century ago, Young conceived a grand idea - to create a beautiful destination by the sea, akin to its California counterpart, where glitz and glamour would entice newcomers to settle.

To anchor his newly founded city, he embarked on an ambitious endeavor to build the Hollywood Beach Resort Hotel, a luxurious edifice that would welcome visitors and investors alike. As the years passed, Hollywood evolved into a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the United States. The city's population swelled to over 152,000, according to the most recent U. S. Census, and its diversity increased, with a majority minority population comprising 16% African Americans and 34% Hispanics. The city is now home to the Seminole Hard Rock Casino, which hosts international musical artists and performers, and the Hollywood Broadwalk, a popular beachside destination.

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport brings millions of visitors to the area, further solidifying Hollywood's reputation as a premier tourist destination.

From Palm Beach County to Miami-Dade, 11 cities are celebrating their centennials in 2025 and 2026. WLRN News' series "History We Call Home" ...

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Florida Tech Panthers Win NCAA Division II National Title In Women's Soccer

The Florida Tech Panthers women's soccer team etched their names in history, claiming the NCAA Division II national title with a resounding 3-0 victory over Franklin Pierce of New Hampshire. This triumph marked a milestone moment for the team, program, and school, as they celebrated their 17th win of the season.

Florida Tech head coach Katy Freels beamed with pride, describing the moment as "unbelievable." She attributed the team's success to their exceptional character and spirit, which had been evident throughout the season. The Panthers' performance was a testament to their dedication and perseverance. The team's journey to the championship was marked by a series of impressive victories, culminating in a dominant display against Franklin Pierce. Wood's goal in the first half was a significant milestone, as it marked her seventh NCAA Tournament goal, making her the school's all-time leader in that category.

As the game progressed, Florida Tech continued to assert their dominance, with Peyton White scoring in the 73rd minute to extend their lead. The Panthers sealed their victory with an insurance goal in the 82nd minute, courtesy of Naganawa, assisted by Mottershead and Posner.

The Panthers (17-3-6) defeated Franklin Pierce (New Hampshire) 3-0 on Saturday at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs, Colorado, claiming the NCAA ...

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Discovering Florida's Hidden Coastal Gems

Florida's coastline, stretching over 1,350 miles, boasts numerous hidden gems that often go unnoticed by tourists. These secluded beaches offer crystal-clear waters, powdery sand, and serene surroundings, providing an escape from the crowds that flock to popular hotspots. One such gem is a 1,545-foot-long pier that juts into the Gulf waters, serving as a gateway to beach bliss.

The sugar-white sand at this location squeaks beneath one's feet, while the water sparkles in shades of blue and green. Families appreciate the ample space to spread out without the crowds, and early morning walks often reveal dolphins playing in the surf. If fortune smiles, one might even spot sea turtles nesting. The pier offers breathtaking views, making it a photographer's paradise. Accessible only by boat, an island sanctuary provides a unique experience, where nature takes center stage.

Wild gopher tortoises roam freely, and visitors can explore the ruins of Fort Dade, a late-19th-century coastal defense site. The beaches remain undeveloped, offering miles of pristine coastline where footprints may be scarce. According to "Ever After in the Woods," these stunning coastal hideaways are waiting to be discovered ← →

Florida's coastline stretches over 1,350 miles, yet most visitors flock to the same crowded hotspots year after year.

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Southwest Florida Celebrates The Holiday Season With Festive Events

Featured in The News-Press:

In southwest Florida, a vibrant array of events unfolded, as communities came together to celebrate the holiday season. Residents and visitors alike flocked to the outdoor plaza at Fort Myers Regional Library, where the all-ages pop-culture festival, Fandom Fest, made its return. The event, scheduled for 11 a.

m.-3 p. m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, featured an assortment of activities, including cosplay, games, --- music, crafts, prizes, food, vendors, a costume contest, face painting, K-pop dancers, a bounce-house obstacle course, and a STEM-based Super Mario tech zone. Festival organizers encouraged attendees to don their favorite costumes, adding to the excitement and festive atmosphere.

Theatre Conspiracy's farewell tour continued, as the troupe presented a holiday-themed show at The Laboratory Theater of Florida in downtown Fort Myers. This production, a prequel to their hit comedy "Clown Bar," took audiences on a journey into the dark underworld of gangster clowns. Scheduled to run through Sunday, Dec. 21, the show offered a unique blend of drama and comedy, with tickets priced at $35. In Fort Myers Beach, the eighth-annual Tree and Wreath Festival took place, featuring an array of uniquely ← →

Here are our top things to do this weekend and beyond, including many Hanukkah and Christmas events. Plus a look at what's ahead in December.

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New Bill Filed To Allow Florida Homeowners To Dissolve Their HOAs

In a move that could bring relief to countless homeowners across Florida, a new bill has been filed that would allow residents to dissolve their homeowners associations (HOAs). The proposed legislation, HB 657, marks a significant shift in the state's approach to HOA reform, one that has been years in the making.

For months, frustrated residents have taken to the streets, rallying outside the Capitol and sharing their stories of abusive boards, exorbitant fines, and crippling legal costs. The outcry has been loud and clear: the current system is broken, and change is needed. Rep. Porras, the bill's sponsor, has been at the forefront of the reform effort.

He describes HB 657 as "one of the largest HOA reform packages in our state's history." The bill aims to give homeowners a stronger voice and more protections against overreaching HOAs. One of the most significant provisions of the bill allows homeowners to petition the court to sue their HOA without having to navigate the state's bureaucracy. This move is expected to provide a much-needed safety net for residents who feel they have been wronged by their HOA. But what about homeowners who want to take it a step further and eliminate their HOA altogether?

A sweeping reform bill was officially filed this week, answering months of growing calls from residents and protesters who say the system is broken.

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Bishop Verot Leads Southwest Florida Girls' Soccer Rankings

In the sweltering landscape of Southwest Florida, where the sun dips into the horizon and paints the sky with hues of crimson and gold, the girls' soccer scene is abuzz with talent and tenacity. The rankings, a closely watched barometer of a team's prowess, have been unveiled by The News-Press and Naples Daily News, shedding light on the top 10 teams in Lee County, Collier County, and LaBelle. At the pinnacle of this hierarchy stands Bishop Verot, their dominance unyielding as they occupy the number one spot.

A hard-fought draw against the second-ranked Mariner, followed by another stalemate with the formidable Archbishop McCarthy, has solidified their position. The Vikings' junior forward, Katie Pelkofski, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, her impressive tally of 14 goals and 3 assists in the opening weeks of the season making her a strong contender for the Southwest Florida Girls Soccer Player of the Year award.

Pelkofski's remarkable form has been a key factor in Verot's success, as they cruised to an 8-0 victory over Gulf Coast.

The News-Press  and  Naples Daily News  will rank the Top 10 teams in Lee County, Collier County, and LaBelle throughout the 2025-26 season.

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