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News Timeline
FLORIDA HERO Cops Save DAY: Rogue Boat Drama in Deadly Storm
— Florida police stopped a rogue boat during dangerous weather, but officials have not shared where it happened or why the boat was out of control. This comes as storms and floods slam Oklahoma and Texas, raising safety worries across the country.
No injuries or property damage have been reported from the boat incident. Still, this reminds us how tough it is for first responders to keep people safe when wild weather hits.
After the Surfside condo collapse, Florida lawmakers passed tougher building safety laws to protect families. Safety stays front and center as states battle new emergencies every week.
We’ll bring you updates as soon as more details come out about this breaking story in Florida.
FSU SHOOTING Horror: Deputy’s GUN Used in Campus Attack
— Florida State University was rocked by terror on April 17 when a gunman killed two people and wounded at least six more. Police say the shooter, Phoenix Ikner, used a firearm registered to his stepmother, who works as a local sheriff’s deputy. The motive is still unknown as detectives search for answers. Students described panic and confusion during the attack. Many locked themselves inside classrooms to stay safe. The university has now let students skip the last week of classes because of safety fears. The FSU community is grieving for the victims and struggling with shock after this tragedy. Elsewhere, Bryan Kohberger’s lawyers are fighting over evidence in his murder trial. In California, an illegal immigrant soccer coach faces charges for killing a 13-year-old boy and assaulting another teen. And in Washington D.C., a stabbing happened at a transit station just as Secretary Sean Duffy arrived to talk about public safety — putting crime concerns back in the spotlight.
FLORIDA SHOOTING Horror, Trump Strike Fallout, and UK Gender Shock Rock Politics
— A deadly shooting at Florida State University left two people dead and several hurt. The shooter used his stepmother’s deputy weapon. He did not know the victims. Video shows students running for cover and hiding in fear. The attack has sparked new arguments over campus safety and gun laws as police investigate. A radical activist linked to Cori Bush is now speaking for the suspect.
Fresh details have come out about a Trump-era U.S. airstrike in Yemen that killed over 70 people targeting Iranian-backed Houthi rebels near a key oil port. This bold move showed President Trump’s hard line against Iran’s allies, standing apart from President Biden’s softer approach on Iran issues. Some experts warn this could lead to fuel shortages for millions living under Houthi rule as debate grows over America’s part in the Middle East.
Senator Marco Rubio says the U.S. may walk away from Ukraine-Russia peace talks if there is no progress soon. He slammed both sides for wasting time with endless meetings that go nowhere, saying results are what matter most right now before leaving for France to talk more about European security.
The UK Supreme Court ruled that being a woman means biological sex at birth — not gender identity — when it comes to legal rights and spaces like bathrooms or shelters just for women.
FSU SHOOTING Horror: Campus Fears Surge as Crime Crisis Grows
— A gunman opened fire at Florida State University on April 17, killing two and injuring six. The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, is the stepson of a local sheriff’s deputy. He used a gun registered to his stepmother. Police have not shared a motive yet, but Ikner is in custody as the investigation continues. Students hid in classrooms for five minutes while shots rang out. Now, the campus is grieving and demanding answers about how this could happen. Violent crime isn’t just a campus problem — it’s rising across America. In South Carolina, an inmate was executed by firing squad for two murders from 2004 — a rare punishment these days. In Texas, police charged a teen with fatally stabbing another student. International news adds to growing concerns about safety and law enforcement. An American pastor kidnapped in South Africa was rescued after police used deadly force against his captors. Meanwhile, U.S. immigration policies face new questions after deportation mistakes led a senator to visit El Salvador — sparking debate over how best to protect Americans at home and abroad.
TRUMP DOJ Unleashes Justice: Death Penalty Sought in Shocking CEO Murder
— Federal prosecutors, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, are seeking the death penalty for Luigi Mangione. Mangione is accused of killing Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, outside a New York City hotel on December 4, 2024. Bondi called it a “premeditated, cold-blooded assassination that shocked America.”
This is the first federal death penalty case under President Trump’s current term. The move shows a return to tough-on-crime policies and keeps Trump’s promise to crack down on violent offenders.
Thompson was a family man with two young children. His murder has sparked debate about public safety and how the justice system handles dangerous criminals. Mangione has pleaded not guilty and faces charges in both federal and state courts.
The case is getting heavy media coverage and will test the administration’s approach to law and order. Many conservatives say this action is needed to restore accountability for brutal crimes.;
PUERTO RICO Shocks Nation: First to Comply with Title VI
— The Puerto Rico Department of Education (PRDOE) is the first K-12 State Education Agency to certify compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This action aligns with the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling in Students v. Harvard, which ended affirmative action as a condition for federal funding. Craig Trainor, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Office for Civil Rights, stressed that accepting federal funds requires following civil rights laws.
Puerto Rico’s quick certification contrasts sharply with Democrat-led states like New York and Chicago, which have resisted compliance certification requests from the Department of Education. New York State Education Department openly refused to comply, claiming that diversity and inclusion principles are not banned by law. Meanwhile, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson threatened legal action against potential funding cuts from what he called Trump administration policies.
The U.S. Department of Education applauded Puerto Rico’s proactive stance against unlawful discrimination and encouraged other states to follow its lead. The PRDOE signed its certification just one day after receiving it from the DOE on April 3rd. This move underscores a growing divide between Republican and Democrat approaches to education policy and civil rights compliance in America’s schools.;
CHINESE MIGRANTS Surge: Florida’s Wealthy Enclave Under Pressure
— A wave of Chinese migrants arriving by boat in South Florida is sparking a human smuggling investigation. Coral Gables, known for its wealthy neighborhoods and Mediterranean Revival architecture, is seeing this unusual influx. The rise in migrant interceptions highlights a broader trend across Florida since 2020.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection data shows a big jump in Chinese nationals entering the state, from 406 in 2020 to 723 by 2024 — a shocking 78% increase. This trend raises concerns about China’s growing influence near affluent American areas like Coral Gables’ Gables Estates, the priciest housing market nationwide according to Zillow.
Eric Brown, a retired Green Beret and CEO of Imperio Consulting, notes that Coral Gables’ closeness to international waterways makes it an appealing entry point for migrants. “Coral Gables is right next to international waters,” Brown explained, stressing its strategic location just 90 miles from Cuba’s coastline. This geographical edge may be aiding the recent rise in migrant arrivals from China.
TRUMP SHOCKS Nation: Education Department to be Dismantled
— President Donald TRUMP has signed an executive order to dismantle the US Department of Education. This move fulfills a long-standing conservative goal to eliminate what they see as federal overreach in education. The decision is expected to impact millions of public school students and their families, especially concerning federal oversight and financial aid programs.
Critics argue that dismantling the department could lower educational standards and accessibility, particularly for disadvantaged communities. Despite these concerns, Trump aligns with business leaders like Elon Musk, who support his agenda through political contributions. This alignment further blurs the lines between politics and business in America today.
The executive order has sparked intense debate about educational policy amid ongoing political polarization over funding and regulations post-COVID-19 pandemic. Educators’ unions and Democratic lawmakers are expected to push back strongly against this decision, highlighting a critical juncture in U.S. education policy under Trump’s influence within the GOP.
TRUMP’S BOLD Move: Plans to Shut Down Education Department
— President Donald Trump intends to sign an executive order to close the U.S. Education Department. He believes this will cut federal spending by eliminating unnecessary departments. Critics argue it could harm public education, while supporters think it will boost local control. SHOCKING Shooting in Monessen: Community on EDGE
A shooting took place on Knox Avenue in Monessen, Westmoreland County this morning. Emergency responders confirmed one person was shot, but the victim’s condition is unknown. Authorities are investigating and urge anyone with information to come forward as no suspects are in custody yet. DEVASTATING Fire DAMAGES Home in Westmoreland County
Early Thursday morning, a fire damaged a home in Monessen, Westmoreland County. Firefighters contained the flames with no reported injuries, but the house suffered significant damage. The cause remains under investigation as crews ensure the fire does not reignite. TRUMP’s CONTROVERSIAL Proposal: US Control Over Ukraine’s POWER PLANTS
In a call with Ukrainian President Zelensky, President Trump suggested U.S. control over Ukraine’s power plants to stabilize tensions with Russia and ensure energy security for Ukraine. This proposal has sparked controversy over its impact on Ukraine’s sovereignty and international relations.
TRUMP’S Executive Order Shakes UP Education Debate
— Former President Donald TRUMP’s recent EXECUTIVE order has sparked a fiery debate nationwide. The order targets educational reforms and might close several Head Start preschools. Critics say this move harms early childhood education, while supporters believe it cuts down on government overreach.
In other news, a tragic plane crash in Washington D.C. has taken 67 lives. The crash happened under mysterious circumstances, leading to an investigation by aviation authorities. Families and communities are mourning as officials work to find the cause of this heartbreaking event.
HURRICANE MILTON’S Fury: Florida’s Heroic Rescue Efforts and Destruction
— More than 3 million Floridians are without power as Hurricane MILTON wreaks havoc across the state. The storm hit near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane, leaving four dead in St. Lucie County due to tornadoes. Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed that over 48 people have been rescued so far, with more than 125 active rescue missions underway in 26 counties.
Milton has now moved off Florida’s east coast, downgraded to a Category 1 storm, but not before causing significant damage through destructive winds and flooding. The worst-hit areas include Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. “The storm was significant,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing the widespread impact but noting it was not the worst-case scenario.
Tampa Bay faced severe weather conditions with up to 18 inches of rainfall reported in some areas and a construction crane collapsing into an office building housing the Tampa Bay Times headquarters. The roof of Tropicana Field was also damaged by strong winds. Sarasota County experienced a substantial storm surge between eight and ten feet high.
Water levels are expected to rise along northeast and west-central Florida rivers over the next day or so, potentially reaching flood stages according to forecasts. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton’s impact on infrastructure and communities, rescue efforts continue
— Hurricane Milton: ‘Storm of the Century,’ Warns Biden President Joe Biden urges millions to evacuate as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast
— Tropical Storm Helene Leaves Millions in Georgia Without Power After making landfall in Florida, Helene has weakened to a tropical storm while causing widespread power outages across Georgia
TEEN SHOOTER Kills Four in Georgia School Tragedy
— A 14-year-old boy opened fire at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, killing four and wounding nine. The victims include two students and two teachers.
The shooter, armed with an assault-style rifle, targeted students in a hallway after being denied re-entry to his algebra class. He has been charged as an adult.
Nine injured individuals were taken to hospitals and are expected to survive. The teen will be held at a regional youth detention facility starting Thursday.
TOP FEDERAL Prosecutor Caught In Shocking Drunken HIT-And-RUN
— A top federal narcotics prosecutor, Joseph Ruddy, violated ethics rules during a hit-and-run investigation last year. Ruddy, visibly intoxicated, handed his business card to Florida police officers after crashing into another vehicle and fleeing the scene. The Justice Department’s Office of Inspector General confirmed he misused his position as an assistant U.S. attorney in Tampa.
Body-camera footage from the Fourth of July incident shows Ruddy struggling to stand and slurring his words while leaning on his pickup truck for balance. Despite his condition, he presented his Justice Department credentials to officers from two jurisdictions investigating the crash. A Tampa police officer warned him that the footage would not look good when reviewed later.
The Justice Department’s report found that Ruddy engaged in conduct prejudicial to the government by driving drunk and leaving the scene of an accident. The case has been referred to the Professional Misconduct Review Unit for further action.
Although removed from several cases following inquiries about his status, Ruddy remains an assistant U.S. attorney as of Wednesday. Neither he nor his attorney has responded to requests for comment on this matter.
— Louisiana Mandates Ten Commandments Display in Every Public School Classroom Louisiana becomes the sole state enforcing Ten Commandments display in all public school and college classrooms through new law
BIDEN’S SACRILEGIOUS Act at Florida Rally Sparks Outrage
— Bishop Thomas Paprocki criticized President Joe Biden for making the sign of the cross at a Florida abortion rally, calling it “sacrilegious” and a mockery of Catholic faith. This incident occurred as Biden stood beside Nikki Fried, who was criticizing Florida’s six-week abortion limit.
The sign of the cross is deeply revered in Catholicism as it symbolizes respect for Christ’s death and belief in the Holy Trinity. Bishop Paprocki argued that by using this gesture during an abortion rights speech, Biden blatantly contradicted these sacred beliefs.
On a diocesan podcast, Bishop Paprocki further highlighted that Biden’s public support for abortion directly opposes the Fifth Commandment, which forbids murder. His remarks have ignited widespread debate and backlash across various online platforms.
The bishop’s condemnation points to a broader conflict between political actions and religious convictions, stirring intense discussion among both supporters and critics of President Biden’s stance on abortion rights.
FLORIDA DEPUTY’S Controversial Shooting Caught On Camera
— A Florida sheriff has released body camera footage of a deputy shooting Roger Fortson, a Black man, who opened his apartment door with a handgun pointed downward. The incident has ignited debate, with Fortson’s family labeling the act “unjustifiable.” Sheriff Eric Aden shared the video to dispute allegations of misconduct.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump contended that the deputy had failed to properly announce himself and had approached the wrong apartment. Contrarily, Sheriff Aden asserted that the footage clearly depicted the deputy loudly announcing his presence before Fortson opened the door.
The video records a tense scenario outside a Fort Walton Beach apartment where, after knocking and identifying himself, the deputy shot at Fortson holding his gun aimed at the ground. Commands for Fortson to drop his weapon persisted even after he indicated it was set aside.
This incident has amplified discussions concerning police protocols and racial dynamics in law enforcement interactions. The sheriff’s release of this footage aims to enhance transparency amid increasing public scrutiny of police conduct.
— Florida Allows Open Discussion on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Classrooms, with Limitations on Formal Instruction Florida permits open dialogue on sexual orientation and gender identity among students and teachers, excluding it from formal instructional content
DEFEAT for Disney: Court TOSSES Lawsuit Against Governor DeSantis
— On Wednesday, a significant legal victory was scored by Governor DeSantis and his administration. The court dismissed a lawsuit brought by Disney, asserting that the entertainment giant lacked the necessary standing to sue.
The basis for dismissal centered on Disney’s inability to demonstrate any imminent harm or injury directly linked to actions taken by either the Secretary or governor.
While the court acknowledged that Disney could potentially bring a case against members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CTFOD), it was determined that even then, they would not prevail.
The case in question, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts v. DeSantis (No. 4:23-cv-163), took place in the U.S. District Court for Northern Florida.
— Trump Praises DeSantis: Sets Aside Criticism as Florida Governor Exits Presidential Race. Former President Donald Trump puts aside past criticism and mockery to commend Florida Governor Ron DeSantis after he withdraws from the presidential race.
Supreme Court: Last RESORT for CUNY Professors Suing Union Over Alleged Antisemitism
— A collective of professors from the City University of New York (CUNY) is taking legal action against a teachers union, Professional Staff Congress/CUNY (PSC). They accuse PSC of fostering antisemitism. The professors see their ultimate hope in the Supreme Court’s intervention. Despite their resignation from the union due to its perceived anti-Jewish bias, state law obliges them to maintain an association with it.
The dispute ignited when PSC endorsed a “Resolution in Support of the Palestinian People” in 2021. This resolution was interpreted as antisemitic and anti-Israel by six professors, prompting their withdrawal from the union. Nonetheless, New York State law dictates that these same professors must be represented by this union in collective bargaining discussions.
Avraham Goldstein, a mathematics professor and one of the six dissenters, voiced his distress over being compelled to align with a union he believes issues antisemitic statements without his approval.
This legal battle follows on from a significant Supreme Court ruling in Janus v. AFSCME (2018). The court decided that public employees who are not members can’t be forced to pay fees to a union as it infringes upon their First Amendment rights.
SELFLESS Iowa Principal SHIELDS Students from Gunfire: A Heroic Tale of Bravery
— Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger was critically injured on Thursday. He was shielding students from a teenage shooter in a harrowing incident. The 17-year-old student, armed with both a shotgun and handgun, injured six other staff members and students before ending his own life.
Marburger’s act of bravery has been praised by the state Department of Public Safety. Currently, he is receiving treatment in a Des Moines hospital. The principal is being hailed for his selfless decision to place himself in harm’s way to protect his students.
The small town of Perry is mourning this devastating event. Classes across the district have been suspended until next Friday as the community grapples with this shocking incident.
Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks spoke about the pain and grief impacting their school community. Counseling has taken precedence over classes as they take time to remember those affected by this senseless act of violence.
FLORIDA BRAVERY: Good Samaritans Thwart Alleged Robbery, Protect Elderly Victim
— In a commendable act of courage, several quick-thinking good Samaritans in Riverview, Florida stepped up to prevent a suspected robbery on Monday. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspect as 42-year-old Robert Moore who allegedly attacked a senior woman in a Publix parking lot and took her car keys.
Moore is accused of knocking the woman down and seizing her car keys. However, three observant bystanders didn’t hesitate to intervene. They rushed to assist the woman after witnessing Moore’s violent behavior.
While one Samaritan promptly called 911, the other two held Moore at bay until law enforcement arrived. As per Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reports, Moore now faces charges including robbery by sudden snatching and battery against a victim over 65 years old.
TRUMP BACKLASH: Former Arkansas Governor Booed at Florida Freedom Summit Over Anti-Trump Remarks
— Asa Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, was met with a chorus of boos during his speech at the Florida Freedom Summit. This strong reaction from the crowd was triggered when Hutchinson hinted that Donald Trump could potentially face a felony conviction by a jury next year.
Having served as both a federal prosecutor and representative, Hutchinson is currently not making any waves in the Republican primary race with his polling numbers flatlining at zero percent. His remarks sparked widespread disapproval among the more than 3,000 attendees present at the event.
Despite facing an unfavorable response from his audience, Hutchinson didn’t back down. He maintained that Trump’s potential legal troubles could sway independent voters’ view of the party and influence down-ticket races for Congress and Senate.
Video
UK Paralympians DEMAND BETTER School Support for Disabled Athletes
— Following their triumphant return from the Paralympic Games in Paris, UK Paralympians have sparked a nationwide debate on enhancing support for disabled athletes in schools. Their achievements highlight the need for better infrastructure and training opportunities.
Paralympians and advocacy groups argue that schools lack adequate support systems essential for nurturing future talent. They stress the importance of specialized training facilities and dedicated coaching staff to ensure equal opportunities for disabled students.
The recent successes of the UK Paralympic team underscore the potential that can be harnessed with proper support. Gold medalist swimmer Ellie Simmonds and wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft are vocal advocates, highlighting challenges they faced that could be alleviated through better school support.
There is growing consensus that the achievements of these athletes should drive systemic change in education and sports sectors. Improved facilities and training programs are seen as necessary steps to ensure all students can excel in sports, regardless of physical abilities.
Social Chatter
What the World is SayingThank you @GovRonDeSantis for your leadership in banning fluoride from Florida’s public water supply. You’re standing up for every Floridian’s right to choose what goes into their own...
. . .Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates Measures to Keep Florida Free
. . .Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates Measures to Keep Florida Free
. . .Today, @CaseyDeSantis and I were proud to announce that @EducationFL is piloting a program that identifies and trains a Hope Florida liaison in select schools. Orange County School District...
. . .Today, @CaseyDeSantis and I were proud to announce that @EducationFL is piloting a program that identifies and trains a Hope Florida liaison in select schools. Orange County School District...
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