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Today in History: February 3, ‘the day the music died’

Mon, 02/03/2025 - 02:00

Today is Monday, Feb. 3, the 34th day of 2025. There are 331 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Feb. 3, 1959, which would become known as “the day the music died,” rock-and-roll stars Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson died in a small plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa.

Also on this date:

In 1870, the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, granting Black American men the right to vote, was ratified.

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In 1913, the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, providing for a federal income tax, was ratified.

In 1917, the United States broke off diplomatic relations with Germany, the same day an American cargo ship, the SS Housatonic, was sunk by a U-boat off Britain (after the crew was allowed to board lifeboats).

In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. transport ship SS Dorchester, which was carrying troops to Greenland, sank after being hit by a German torpedo in the Labrador Sea; only some 230 of the 900 aboard survived.

In 1966, the Soviet probe Luna 9 became the first manmade object to make a soft landing on the moon.

In 1998, a U.S. Marine aircraft sliced through the cable of a ski gondola near Cavalese, Italy, causing the car to plunge hundreds of feet, killing all 20 people inside.

In 2002, the New England Patriots won their first Super Bowl, defeating the St. Louis Rams 20-17.

In 2006, an Egyptian passenger ferry sank in the Red Sea during bad weather, killing more than 1,000 passengers.

Today’s birthdays:
  • Football Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton is 85.
  • Actor Blythe Danner is 82.
  • Football Hall of Famer Bob Griese is 80.
  • Singer-guitarist Dave Davies (The Kinks) is 78.
  • Actor Morgan Fairchild is 75.
  • Actor Nathan Lane is 69.
  • Actor Maura Tierney is 60.
  • Basketball Hall of Famer Vlade Divac is 57.
  • Golf Hall of Famer Retief Goosen is 56.
  • Actor Warwick Davis is 55.
  • Actor Isla Fisher is 49.
  • Reggaeton singer Daddy Yankee is 48.

The past year was deadly for endangered Florida panthers. Why aren’t there more wildlife crossings?

Mon, 02/03/2025 - 01:53

Last year was one of the deadliest for endangered Florida panthers. Thirty-six cats were found dead, 30 of those from vehicle strikes — the most since 2016.

And so far in 2025, one cat has already died, a young male who was struck on Jan. 10 near Immokalee, 20 miles northeast of Naples.

The cats, which usually travel at night and can have a range of 200 square miles, have no chance against blinding headlights and 4,000-pound SUVs traveling at 70 mph. One way to reduce these deaths is to install wildlife crossings — underpasses (and sometimes overpasses) that animals can use to reach new territories without dodging ever-increasing Florida traffic.

With more panthers moving north and more people relocating to Florida, it’s clear more crossings are needed. Big projects are envisioned to help, but it all comes down to obtaining money and the right land to make it into a reality. Tracking the progress, workers have seen the pace for building crossings vary from year to year.

“You’re never going to be able to build enough wildlife crossing to cover all the roads in Florida,” said David Onorato, who helps plan crossings as a biologist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “But if you can maybe get some key areas protected where panthers are moving through, then that can serve to help continue expansion and recovery of the population.”

For evidence of wildlife crossing potency, a close look at the Florida Department of Transportation’s panther roadkill map shows a dense cluster of mortality dots on State Road 29 north of the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. But within the refuge, four wildlife underpasses keep deaths low.

The state has poured millions of dollars into saving the Florida panther, and millions more into creating the Florida Wildlife Corridor, a network of connected wild lands that, in theory, allow panthers, bears, deer and other wildlife to reach new territory — and potential mates.

Yet Florida’s roads still carve wild areas into isolated pockets. The isolation is deadly, not only because it drives vehicle strikes, but because it results in inbreeding and genetic weakness.

“The (Florida Wildlife) corridor can only do so much if it’s bisected by roads,” said Jason Totoiu, senior attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity. “If the corridor is carved up by roads and we don’t have these crossings in place for panthers to utilize, it’s going to erase any gains we’ve made with land acquisition.”

This map of Florida show panther deaths due to vehicle strikes over the decades. The vertical red cluster is Highway 29 leading up to Immokalee — prime panther habitat. More deaths are beginning to occur north of the Caloosahatchee River, which runs between Lake Okeechobee and Fort Myers. (Courtesy Florida Department of Transportation)

All this raises the question: Why aren’t there more wildlife crossings?

The person who deals most directly with the challenges and complications of making Florida’s roads less deadly to wildlife is Brent Setchell, a drainage design engineer for the Florida Department of Transportation. Setchell said building new crossings comes down to three things:

Location: They must be built where wildlife needs them most and will actually use them.

Land ownership: The state must own the land on either side of the roadway. If not, FDOT must wheel and deal to either buy the land, or create a conservation easement for the land owner. All of these things take time.

Funding: There’s no set annual budget in Florida for wildlife crossings, but federal and state programs do fund them periodically.

Additionally, the cat’s population has rebounded from 30 or so animals in the 1960s to approximately 200 to 230 now.

That means they’re expanding their range. More cats over a larger area means a need for more wildlife crossings.

Go north, young panther

One of the key goals of panther conservation has been to establish a breeding population north of the Caloosahatchee River, which runs east-west from Lake Okeechobee to Fort Myers.

Males, which are more likely to venture into new territory, both to avoid older males and to find mates, have been crossing the river periodically for decades. But it was not until 2016 that wildlife officials observed a female north of the river — the first in 40 years. In 2018, photographer Carlton Ward, founder of conservation and storytelling group WildPath, filmed the female rearing kittens.

Despite that success, three of the rare females have been killed by vehicle strikes north of the river since 2022.

“We knew that we needed to start looking at how we were going to make that transition (north),” Setchell said.  “We realize how important it is to make sure we provide that permeability.” That permeability — or the ability for animals to move more freely around the state — comes from crossings.

There are 200 crossings statewide, with 58 of those in the areas of most crucial to the panthers, according to FDOT’s conservation plan for the panther, which they developed with the U.S. Fish  and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The bulk of those crossings, 36 of them, are along Alligator Alley (Interstate 75). When the roadway was widened in the 1990s, FDOT installed 24 standalone wildlife crossings and outfitted 12 additional bridges with shelf-like walkways that allow animals to cross under the highway more comfortably. They also installed 50 miles of fencing on each side of the road, which funnels animals to the crossings.

Finding the funding

FDOT’s 2025 budget is $15.5 billion, but none of it is specifically designated to wildlife crossings. FDOT does fund them, but Setchell and his co-workers have to hunt for the money.

“Certainly, to find money for a standalone wildlife crossing is very challenging,” he said. A standalone crossing on a two-lane road costs between $6.5 million and $8 million. A four-lane would be significantly more.

Setchell and others at FDOT have found opportunities by being resourceful, tying wildlife crossings to larger projects — two crucial crossings currently under construction on I-4, which cuts through prime panther habitat between Tampa and Orlando, had interchange projects nearby. “We were able to tie the funding with those projects,” said Setchell, “so it’s a lot easier to add, let’s say, a $10 million crossing to a $70 or $80 million project than it is to find money for just a standalone $10 million crossing.”

Another cost-saving strategy is the installation of shelf-like walkways under bridges. “Some of these underpasses now, they don’t have to make these huge, multimillion-dollar underpasses,” said Onorato of the FWC. “They just make small improvements and put in a cement shelf that the animals can walk on. It’s conservation at a much reduced cost.”

Stetchell said that on a recent road-widening project that involved demolishing bridges, they outfitted the new bridges with the shelves. “So that kind of (tie-in) makes it a lot easier for us,” he said.

This map of southern Florida shows existing wildlife crossings in green, those under construction in orange and those planned in yellow. Dark green areas are conservation lands, light green represents conservation opportunity areas. (Courtesy Florida Department of Transportation)

They’ve also retrofitted old bridges with the shelves.

On one such bridge on Alligator Alley, Setchell used camera traps to measure success.

“Right away we got a panther going through there,” he said. “Again. It’s a low-cost effort to take that existing infrastructure and be able to, you know, add that wildlife shelf in there and still get a big bang for your buck.”

The puzzle pieces

One recent standalone crossing project reveals the puzzle pieces that must be assembled to build a crossing.

After a spate of panther deaths along a rural four-lane stretch of U.S. 27 south of Venus, Florida, FDOT and biologists at the FWC determined it was an ideal spot for a crossing. But there was no funding, and the land adjacent to the roadway was private, and not conserved. It was, however, on the list for the Florida Forever land acquisition program.

First, they sought federal money — the Biden Administration allotted $110 million for 19 wildlife crossing projects in 17 states.

“We applied for the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program grant through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and we were just awarded $6.1 million for that particular crossing,” said Setchell. The federal grant requires a 20% state match, which also came through.

As that was happening, Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet approved the adjacent lands, called the Hendrie Ranch, for a conservation easement through the Rural Family Lands Protection Act.

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The easement means the state buys the land, more than 5,000 acres, for below-market value, but the land owners are able to continue ranching some 600 cattle there.

“We actually found out about four days before we got the grant award that the governor and the Cabinet approved the adjacent lands,” said Setchell.

As a result, Setchell said, the U.S. 27 Venus wildlife crossing “provides that rare opportunity for wildlife to be able to cross underneath that four-lane highway.”

Other funding methods

Other states have had success in allowing naming rights on wildlife crossings to spur financial support.

California’s Wallis Annenberg Crossing, a public-private partnership that is currently under construction, is a prime example.

Once built, it will be a grassy overpass above Highway 101 and will connect the isolated Santa Monica Mountains with large wild areas to the north.

The Annenberg Foundation made $26 million worth of challenge grants that sparked donations from more than 3,000 private, philanthropic, and corporate institutions. The National Wildlife Foundation then used those funds to spearhead the work.

Florida does not, at the moment, seek wildlife crossing funding from private sources, but that’s not to say it’s impossible. “If somebody out there was interested in that, certainly we could find a way to make it happen,” said Setchell. The Annenberg crossing has also inspired a new nonprofit looking to fund crossings in other states.

A bear and a boundary

A striking example of how both the Wildlife Corridor and wildlife crossings affect the life of wild animals is the story of Bear M34. Researchers put a GPS radio tag on the 2 ½-year-old, 200-pound bear in 2009, near Sebring.

During the following breeding season in May, he bolted north, meandering his way up to the Disney World area, until he hit I-4, which cuts east-west from Orlando to Tampa.

He journeyed along I-4 for a week.

There’s no way to know if he was looking for a way around it, but his path butts up against the highway again and again.

“There’s over 100,000 vehicles per day on that road,” said Setchell.

After a week of life along the highway, he decides to head south again.

His collar reached capacity and fell off in July, about 30 miles from where he began his eight-week 500-mile journey that spanned 110 miles north to south.

This map shows the path of bear M34 from May to July 2010, when he traveled north from Sebring up to I-4, where he seemed to attempt to cross the busy highway. He then traveled south to the Lake Okeechobee area, covering a total of 500 miles. (Courtesy Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation)

M34’s track served as inspiration for a crossing on I-4, completed last June. In January of this year, FDOT started construction on a nearby overpass, the first in the state.

At the new I-4 crossing, Setchell said they’ve seen early success.

“A lot of deer are using that crossing already,” he said. “We’ve got does with fawns underneath there. It’s great to see them teaching their young how to use the crossing. We’ve also got coyotes, raccoons, otters, birds and alligators using the crossing. So it’s been a fantastic early success, especially since there was nothing there previously.”

Filmmaker Carlton Ward said that the I-4 corridor has seen profound development in the last decade or so, but that just beyond I-4 is the lush Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area, and a possible path to the massive Ocala National Forest south of Gainesville.

“That would be a real benchmark if a female panther could make it north of I-4, then that’s a big step forward.

“That’s a real challenge, and I’m not sure they’ll make it without our help relocating them. They’ve got to run a gauntlet even to get to the edge of I-4.”

Choosing locations, choosing a future

Just as roads have dammed the Everglades flow in Florida, they have dammed wildlife movement, but roads will only increase.

Onorato said the FWC and FDOT look at where panther road kills and injuries are occurring to update their hot-spot map. They also look at other roadkill data, telemetry data and camera trap data and start to prioritize potential crossings.

Setchell said they’ll put up camera traps near a potential site to assess what’s around.

“For example, in the U.S. 27 Venus crossing, we had our cameras out there for almost a year prior to getting the funding, checking to see what wildlife was out there. That helps us determine the size and the shape of the crossing that’s needed,” said Setchell. They then coordinate with FWC and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

As for future crossings in panther habitat, there are currently 12 crossings under construction south of Orlando, and seven planned, according to FDOT’s interactive statewide wildlife crossing map. Beyond that, it remains to be seen.

This map of Florida show closer view of where death clusters occur in the panther’s core range. The vertical red cluster is Highway 29 leading up to Immokalee. Deaths dissipate as Highway 29 enters the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, where there are several wildlife crossings. (Courtesy Florida Department of Transportation)

Florida’s rapid rate of development adds traffic and a ticking clock to the whole scenario.

“Once you lose the land it’s gone,” Ward said. “That’s what’s happening around Orlando, where you have orange groves turning to rooftops. Even with places on a five-year plan for a crossing, you’re losing your opportunities as you lose the land.”

Setchell said that the pace for building crossings changes from year to year. “This past year was a phenomenal year. I think six or seven projects all went at the same time — the cards fell in line … but I think this year (2025) we’ll probably only have about two that will lead to construction.”

As for funding in the coming year, Florida’s legislative leaders are warning lawmakers to expect a slowdown in spending this year, in part because federal money that flooded into the state during the COVID-19 pandemic has dried up.

And the Trump Administration’s flirtation with freezing funding for federal programs adds an additional level of uncertainty.

An endangered Florida panther makes it’s way through a wooded area. The image was captured by a camera trap in the Big Cypress area. (Courtesy WildPath, Carlton Ward, Jr.)

Whether wildlife crossings exist or not, the cats are on the move.

In December of last year, Rawl Overstreet spotted a panther on his cattle ranch in Osceola County, south of Orlando. “It was exciting,” said Overstreet, who confirmed the sighting of the male panther by collecting the cat’s scat and sending it in for analysis. “It’s good to see that maybe we’re doing a pretty good job here of managing our wildlife.”

Osceola County — rural, with few roads and vast protected land — is ideal 21st century panther habitat. With enough crossing farther south, more of the big cats, maybe even a few females, just might be able to find it.

Reporting from the Orlando Sentinel’s Natalia Jarmillo was used in this article.

To report a sick or injured panther, contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

Bill Kearney covers the environment, the outdoors and tropical weather. He can be reached at bkearney@sunsentinel.com. Follow him on Instagram @billkearney or on X @billkearney6

Stephen Ross’ unfinished business: Delivering more growth to Palm Beach County

Mon, 02/03/2025 - 01:40

On a windswept waterfront lot in West Palm Beach last April, billionaire real estate developer Stephen Ross stood behind a lectern to tout his company’s new South Flagler House, a high-end, luxury condominium project with 108 units housed in two 28-story towers.

He gave props to City of West Palm Beach officials who helped clear the way for the project’s approval.

“I can say the leadership here in West Palm Beach really shares the vision in making this a model city,” he told guests assembled for coffee and breakfast beneath a tent. “Are there any buyers here to share in making that possible?”

He then proceeded to outline a vision for development that went far beyond South Flagler Drive, a thoroughfare that borders the west bank of the Intracoastal Waterway, across from Ross’ own home in Palm Beach.

“I talk about the fact about how important the city is and how lucky we are to be here today,” Ross said to applause.  “I really believe this is the best place in the United States.”

Since that blustery day on a dirt lot, Ross, now 84, has activated what national and local financial media characterize as a “second act” for one of the most prolific real estate developers in the United States, and who, through his Related Companies, amassed billions in assets highlighted by the vast Hudson Yards mixed-use project on the west side of New York City.

Among Ross’ leading local acts:

  • He formed Related Ross, a company whose mission is to foster development in South Florida, but mainly in Palm Beach County. While he remains non-executive chairman and a major shareholder in Related Companies, other executives run the firm he founded as an affordable housing builder in 1972.
  • With the aid of private sector donors, he helped trigger an initiative to bring Vanderbilt University’s Owen School of Management to downtown West Palm Beach, where a $520 million campus mirroring the school’s facilities in Nashville, Tenn., is expected to house 1,000 students who would focus on computing and innovation. Both the city and county contributed land, and the project is scheduled for completion in 2027.
  • More recently, Related Ross is working with the prominent equestrian Village of Wellington to bring a charter school to town along with retail and residential components.
  • Last week, Ross led an entourage of roughly 20 Related Ross staffers and executives into a Boca Raton City Council workshop to compete for a new mixed-use government campus the city wants to build just west of the Brightline train station and Dixie Highway at 201 W. Palmetto Park Road.

Combined, the initiatives and commitments seem to carry a rising level of risk given a slowdown of heavy migration to Florida from out of state since the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent months, moving companies such as U-Haul and Atlas have found an equilibrium between inbound and outbound residents over the past year amid rising insurance costs and interest rates, limited affordable housing, and more frequent hurricanes.

But in an interview last Monday  after the workshop presentation before Boca Raton’s elected leaders, Ross told the South Florida Sun Sentinel he is looking for projects that have “impact” because of Florida’s continued status as a preferred state for business relocations, driven largely by low taxes and a state government with a penchant for deregulation.

Technology a growth driver

“As a real estate developer you want to grow things,” he said. “What I want to do at this stage of life is impactful projects. The world is changing in every single area. Growth that has been occurring has been financial services so far. We really see it in Palm Beach County. I believe that a lot of growth is going to come from technology.”

“That’s why we went out and got a great university like Vanderbilt,” he added.

“We’re about to announce a major technology company is coming to West Palm Beach,” he said. “I see Boca Raton as being able to get on that bandwagon and be a very, very attractive place for technology firms to locate here.”

Billionaire and Related Ross founder Stephen Ross listens to one of his executives press his company’s case to be chosen as the firm that would build an expansive government campus in Boca Raton west of the Brightline train station. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Ross asserts he was ahead of the pack in recognizing the potential of West Palm Beach with the construction of City Place more than two decades ago. And it was during the pandemic that he recognized Florida’s growing attraction among out-of-state residents and businesses that were seeking better tax treatment from state government and, of course, superior year-round weather.

It was an easy trend to spot: His office buildings were filling up with out-of-towners. But the area needs a stronger supporting infrastructure, he argued.

“We’re concentrating in West Palm,” he said. “We just went to Wellington. I see right now bringing the schools, the hospitals, because anybody who runs a company wants to know their kids are going to get into great colleges.”

“You can’t grow a community unless you have a great education,” he said.

Along that vein in Wellington, Related Ross is working to build out a mixed-use section that includes a charter school.

According to a company spokesperson, Related Ross has been working with ElevateED to open a not-for-profit K-12 private school on a 70-acre lot that was public land owned by the village. A purchase and sales agreement, approved by the Village of Wellington in January, saw Related Ross buy 35 acres while the school bought the other 35 acres. The village approved the project in a unanimous 5-0 vote.

Next up are approvals and discussions with the village on a Related Ross mixed-use proposal including dining, retail, a boutique hotel with up to 150 rooms, and residential. Overall, the project took into account Wellington’s demand for more K-12 education options, and the residents’ strong desire for local dining and retail so they wouldn’t have to leave the village.

4 proposals, 1 future for Boca Raton: Developers compete to reshape area near Brightline station

At the Boca Raton workshop last week, Ross told the City Council that Related Ross, which owns large amounts of commercial space in the county, is now concentrating all of its development efforts there.

“We are strictly focusing all of our attention in Palm Beach County,” he said.

In the meantime, Related Ross, which was participating in a supertall office tower project with Hong Kong-based Swire in Miami’s Brickell Avenue section, is no longer involved as Swire elected to sell the land. The latter company determined that the office market has slowed to the extent that it could not expedite the project, according to a person familiar with the situation.

A national slowdown in the office market has caused concern among various local governments considering mixed-use projects. But Greg Martin of the commercial real estate firm Avison Young said there is little doubt in-migration will continue to propel demand in Florida.

“We’re going to continue to see people moving here, and that’s going to impact all sectors,” he said, adding the market has “taken a breath” from the surge during COVID.

“There’s going to be continued need for new offices; people are making a flight towards quality,” he said.

Developer and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is making a bid for his Related Ross company to develop the Boca Government Campus. “”What I want to do at this stage of life is impactful projects,” he told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Rising competition

But Ross is seeing more competition from other developers, some of whom are looking north from Miami-Dade County and from out-of-state.

The Boca Center LLC, led by Terra of Miami, is teaming with the Frisbie Group of West Palm Beach for the Boca Raton government project. Out-of-state firms RocPoint of Atlanta and Namdar Group of Great Neck, N.Y., are also competing for the prize.

Jorge Perez, of the Related Group, a partner of Ross until the two had an amicable split several years ago, is building multiple projects around the county including a Ritz-Carlton Residences in West Palm Beach.

Ross declined to rate or discuss his rivals’ proposals in Boca Raton.

David Martin, founder and CEO of Terra, said competition is good for the industry.

“It really provides for developers an opportunity to establish a point of view and be creative and innovative,” he told the Sun Sentinel, asserting his firm is South Florida’s most active developer.

“We welcome the competition and we think it’s proper, prudent and part of capitalism and the American way,” he said. “We welcome and enjoy the competition and the ideas of placemaking.”

But City Council members warned the applicants they were not in the market for a “city within a city.”

That means all of the contenders will need to balance what they believe is in the best interest of Boca Raton with what the elected officials are hearing from the constituents. The size, scope and diversity of some proposals have resulted in some citizen pushback.

All the applicants said they are mindful of the city’s needs.

“I think that it’s really a meeting of the minds to decide the mix of retail, residential, and office density,” said Kelly Smallridge, president and CEO of the county’s Business Development Board, who attended the Monday workshop.

It is the role of the elected officials, she told the South Florida Sun Sentinel, “to ensure that future developments are comfortable with their goals and the needs and desires of the residents.”

“And if the city wants a successful developer to deliver a quality project, they often times have to negotiate so it is a happy medium or win-win for all,” she said.

Smallridge noted that Ross personally has gone out of his way to help her agency recruit businesses considering  moves to Palm Beach County. Once, he made his Hudson Yards office in New York available to her and a group of school headmasters who were on a recruiting trip so she didn’t have to rent space.

“They really take a tremendous amount of time to dive deep and listen to the community,” she said of Ross’ firm. “It’s unbelievable the targeted approach they take when it comes to developing a new project in an area. They do a lot of listening tours.”

Big firms scouting Florida want bigger office space, Dolphins owner and developer Stephen Ross says

West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James had favorable comments for both Terra and Related Ross — offering a testimonial in a video shown at the workshop on Terra’s behalf.

“It’s not a one-sided ask,” James told the Sun Sentinel of proposals from Ross. “I think he gets it that the rising tide raises all boats. We can’t have a tale of two cities here.”

He cited a Related project called The Laurel, which is south of Ross’ 360 Rosemary office building in West Palm Beach.

“It’s market-rate rental apartments,” James said.

In exchange for additional height, the mayor recalled, “we incorporated in the building a number of workforce housing units. It was the first time we had any construction of workforce housing in our downtown.”

To the south in Broward County, a place Ross has called “mature” for its heavily developed spaces, Bob Swindell, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, said this: “I wish I had a Stephen Ross, to be honest with you.”

Ross’ community presence, he said, evokes memories of another area billionaire, the late H. Wayne Huizenga, who built and expanded local companies and preceded Ross as owner of the Miami Dolphins, and brought Major League Baseball’s Marlins and the National Hockey League’s Florida Panthers to the region.

Swindell acknowledged how Ross regards Broward. Its raw land supply is limited and most development is an exercise in in-fill — demolishing the old to make way for new construction in places such as Flagler Village.

“I’d like to take Mr. Ross myself and show him a little of what’s available there,” Swindell said. “I know there are a lot of cities that would like to do a public-private partnership.”

ASK IRA: Did the Lakers just wind up with Pat Riley’s whale?

Mon, 02/03/2025 - 01:39

Q: Ira, the Lakers did it again in acquiring the NBA’s brightest star, Luka Dončić, in the mega blockbuster trade of Anthony Davis. Much will be written and said about the winners and losers in this trade, with the Mavs likely to take the brunt of the criticism. But aren’t the Heat big losers, too? You have correctly reported throughout the Jimmy Butler debacle that the Heat’s overarching goal was to open up cap space in the 2026 offseason, when the Duncan Robinson and Terry Rozier contracts would come off the books and Luka would be eligible to opt out. Without a doubt, Luka was the whale that Pat Riley was chasing. This really blows up the Heat’s hopeful plans. What now?  – Terry, Knoxville, Tenn.

A: Rarely am I willing to go from Point A to Point Z when it comes to trade speculation, but in this case I did have somewhat of belief that the Heat’s eyes long have been on Luka Doncic, to set up another Slovenian connection along the lines of Goran Dragic (who certainly has been around Kaseya Center often enough in the wake of his retirement). But this is nothing like, say, Kevin Durant or Damian Lillard getting away. The Heat’s Luka lust  was a long-term vision and perhaps hope. Then again, so were LeBron James and Chris Bosh. So this should not sting from a Heat perspective. And yet, to a degree, it still does. What might sting even more is not even a phone call from the Mavericks. Because if they had asked for Bam Adebayo . . . ? The fact that the Doncic move came a day before the De’Aaron Fox move certainly did not make it the best of weekends for Pat Riley or the Heat front office.

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Q: You know, we have a pretty good conditioning program down in South Florida, not sure if Nico Harrison knew about that, though it would have been a pretty strong blow to Heat Culture to ship Bam Adebayo out suddenly, and it sounds like the Mavericks definitely had the hots for Anthony Davis. Larger picture, are we seeing something, both home and away, that speaks to a new way of GMs/teams working in the NBA, especially with top stars? While everyone over a certain line of play understandably demands max money, given the combo of health and availability of top stars like Jimmy Butler (though that’s a combo of health and interest/disinterest), do you think we will see some changes? I would expect fewer teams will be willing to just max out even multi-time All-Stars just because they are stars, and fewer markets will be able to take on the burden of these mega-mega contracts coming up. – Phillip, Portland, Ore.

A: Dallas’ approach still seems somewhat like the exception. But other teams have done this before, to get ahead of free agency, such as when the Pacers moved off of Paul George. On the flip side, is the Heat not moving on Jimmy Butler last summer, ahead of his ability to opt out this coming summer. So it comes down to whether you also want to live in the moment. As for teams backing off with maximum commitments, that assuredly will remain an exception. For as much money as we’re talking, we’re also talking about an NBA eco system flush with cash. When you factor in franchise appreciation and the new media deals, this is a very hard business to lose money.

Q: Ira, after the big Laker/Mavs  trade, it looks like the Lakers are giving up on this season and are looking to rebuild around Luka Doncic.  The Lakers have no center, no 3-point shooting and Luka and LeBron James both need the ball in their hands.  I  can see this three-way trade happening: LeBron to the Warriors, Jimmy Butler to the Lakers and Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga and draft picks to the Heat.  Your thoughts? – Joel.

A: I do believe that with the first big deals of the trading period now having gone down (Doncic, Fox) that it could be the precursor to move others into action. And the Warriors yet could stand as a realistic conduit for both the Heat and Jimmy Butler, despite speculation now otherwise. This all is fluid, very fluid, a high-stakes game of liar’s poker.

Reject RFK Jr. and his conspiracy theories | Letters to the editor

Mon, 02/03/2025 - 01:38

The United States Senate must reject Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination to serve as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).

As we saw at a Senate committee hearing last week in Washington, Kennedy lacks the qualifications, experience and credibility required to oversee our nation’s health care system.

The secretary must have the experience and expertise necessary to effectively lead the many critical departments under HHS that promote and protect public health. RFK Jr.’s track record is profoundly disturbing and shows that he promotes dangerous health misinformation and conspiracy theories in ways that directly threaten public safety.

Our families deserve leadership rooted in science, truth and responsibility — not conspiracy and recklessness.

As a concerned mother, I urge our senators to vote no on this nomination.

Vanessa Haim, Weston

Hegseth got off too easy

I have no doubt, based on his military record, that Pete Hegseth could play an important role instilling a “warrior ethos” at the Pentagon, but it should be a subordinate role to someone more qualified, who can deal with the vital international relationships that a defense secretary must navigate.

Regrettably, the Hegseth hearings were a typical Kabuki dance, with Democrats mostly chasing the shiny objects — sex and drinking — and Republicans outraged in response. Only Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawaii came close to a substantive question when she asked Hegseth to name one member of ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Hegseth responded by mentioning Australia, South Korea and Japan, none of which are ASEAN members. Where were the questions of his thoughts on NATO or the China vs. Taiwan issue, or the key international interlocutors with whom he will need to interact? Maybe he knows these things and maybe not, but we shouldn’t have to guess.

Ray Kengott, Fort Lauderdale

Confirmation hearings a farce

I suggest doing away with the rest of the Senate confirmation hearings on President Trump’s appointees.

Congress showed its lack of backbone by confirming an obviously unfit Pete Hegseth, so we can assume everyone else The King puts forth will be rubber-stamped, too. Maybe he threatened to send a newly-released Proud Boy after any senator who voted no. The only ones showed any gumption were the two women (Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska).

Hilary Sinberg, Delray Beach

(Editor’s Note: A third Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell, voted against Hegseth, making the Senate vote 50 to 50. Vice President JD Vance broke the tie in Hegseth’s favor).

Unconvinced of change

Regarding Pete Hegseth’s confirmation as U.S. Defense Secretary: “A leopard never changes his spots.”

Pat Eland, Delray Beach

Paper’s opinions are ‘too liberal’ Steve Bousquet/Sun SentinelThe Sun Sentinel  on a driveway in a Pompano Beach neighborhood.

It’s no wonder people aren’t reading your newspaper anymore. Your opinions are too liberal for what’s taking place in the world right now.

So you can write all you want, but the people have spoken.

We now have a great commander-in-chief in the White House and a great governor running Florida — the state where most people out of state want to move.

Soon the Sun Sentinel will be a relic. You will all be working for MSNBC, if they stay in business (its parent company is looking to dump them).

A new day has risen and folks are going to enjoy it.

Steve Goldsmith, Delray Beach

Please submit a letter to the editor by email to letterstotheeditor@sunsentinel.com or fill out the online form below. Letters may be up to 200 words and must be signed with your email address, city of residence and daytime phone number for verification. Letters will be edited for clarity and length. 

 

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Beyoncé wins album of the year at the 2025 Grammys for ‘Cowboy Carter’

Sun, 02/02/2025 - 21:58

By MARIA SHERMAN, Associated Press Music Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Beyoncé has won album of the year for “Cowboy Carter” at the 2025 Grammys, delivering her — at last — the show’s elusive top award.

The superstar, who is both the most awarded and nominated artist in Grammys history, has been up for the category four times before and many feel she has been snubbed by its top honors.

In winning album of the year with “Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé has become the first Black woman to win the top prize in the 21st century. The last was Lauryn Hill with “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” 26 years ago. Before her was Natalie Cole and Whitney Houston. That means Beyoncé is only the fourth Black woman to win album of the year at the Grammys.

Members of the Los Angeles Fire Department presented Beyoncé with the trophy Sunday, one of several times the show reflected the recent wildfires that burned thousands of homes.

“It’s been many, many years,” Beyoncé said in her speech. “I want to dedicate this to Ms. Martell,” she said, referencing Linda Martell, the performer who became the first Black woman to play the Grand Ole Opry.

“We finally saw it happen, everyone,” host Trevor Noah said, nodding to the long overdue achievement for one of music’s transcendent artists.

Kendrick Lamar won song and record of the year for his diss track “Not Like Us” at the 2025 Grammys, taking home two of the night’s most prestigious awards.

“We’re gonna dedicate this one to the city,” Lamar said before shouting out Los Angeles area neighborhoods.

Kendrick Lamar, left, accepts the record of the year award for “Not Like Us during the 67th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. Mustard looks on from right. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

It is the second hip-hop single to ever win in the category. The first was Childish Gambino’s “This Is America.”

The Weeknd mends fences, Chappell Roan challenges music industry

The Weeknd has mended his fractious relationship with the Grammy Awards with a surprise performance of his new single, “Cry For Me” and “Timeless” with Playboi Carti.

His decision is a direct reflection of the changes the Recording Academy has made to diversify its voting body, CEO Harvey Mason jr. said in his introduction. The Weeknd has been openly critical of the Grammys organization, dating back to 2020 when he wrote on Twitter: “The Grammys remain corrupt.”

It was just one of many pleasant surprises Sunday night. Chappell Roan was named best new artist at the 2025 Grammys.

She read a speech from a notebook, speaking directly to major labels and the music industry, instructing them to “offer a living wage and healthcare, especially to developing artists.” She described getting signed as a minor, getting dropped and entering the workforce during COVID-19 with no work experience and no health care. She asked them to treat artists like “valuable employees.”

Chappell Roan arrives at the 67th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

“Labels, we got you,” she concluded her speech. “But do you got us?”

Beyoncé and Chappell Roan give Grammys a country theme

In one of the biggest moments of the evening so far, Taylor Swift presented the award for best country album at the 2025 Grammys to Beyoncé. She became the first Black woman to ever win in the category.

“Genre is a cold word to keep us in our place as artists,” she said in her speech. “I’m still in shock. Thank you so much for this honor.”

Beyoncé entered the night as the leading nominee.

A little bit of the wild west, a little bit of West Hollywood. Roan brought a rocking version of her “Pink Pony Club” to the 2025 Grammy stage. Joined by a posse of dancing clown cowboys, she sang from atop a giant pink horse.

Los Angeles on the mind

In incorporating the wildfires throughout the show, the Grammys put the spotlight on the city’s resiliency.

Noah’s opening speech was dedicated to those affected by the fires, promising a show that not only celebrates them, but one that also celebrates “the city that brought us so much of that music.” The Grammys have also allotted ad time to be used by local businesses affected by the fires.

As the show neared its end, Noah announced that viewers had contributed $7 million to relief efforts Sunday night so far.

On a stage set up to look like the mountains of Los Angeles, the LA born-and-raised Billie Eilish and her brother/collaborator Finneas performed her hit “Birds of a Feather.” It was one of a number of ways the show seeks to salute the city. “We love you LA,” she told the crowd at the end of the set.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 02: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Billie Eilish attends the 67th GRAMMY Awards on February 02, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The show kicked off with a powerful opening performance of Randy Newman’s “I Love L.A.” by Dawes — whose members were directly affected by the Eaton fire — backed by John Legend, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow, Brittany Howard and St. Vincent.

Star studded performances and victories

The first televised award went to Doechii for best rap album for “Alligator Bites Never Heal.”

The tears were immediate. “This category was introduced in 1989. Two women have won, Lauryn Hill —” she said, correcting herself. “Three women have won. Lauryn Hill, Cardi B and Doechii.”

Will Smith introduced a tribute to the late, great, legendary producer Quincy Jones. “In his 91 years, Q touched countless lives, but I have to say he changed mine forever,” he said. “You probably wouldn’t even know who Will Smith was without Quincy Jones.”

Jones died in November at age 91. Kicked off by Cynthia Erivo, accompanied by Herbie Hancock on piano, the “Wicked” star sang Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.” Then came Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier with “Let the Good Times Roll,” followed by Stevie Wonder and Hancock busting out “Bluesette” and “We Are The World.” For the latter, they were joined by student singers from two schools that were lost in the LA-area fires.

Then, Janelle Monae with an inspired rendition of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” channeling Michael Jackson in a sparkly tuxedo and an effortless moonwalk.

The Beatles’ “Now and Then,” which used AI technology, took home best rock performance. Sean Lennon accepted the award on behalf of his father John Lennon. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s the best band of all time,” he said of the Beatles.

First time winners were abundant. They included Carpenter, Roan, Doechii, Charli xcx, songwriter Amy Allen, Música Mexicana star Carin León, French metal band Gojira and country folk artist Sierra Ferrell.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Anthony Kiedis and Chad Smith led the crowd in a short singalong of their hit “Under the Bridge,” reminding the crowd to “support their friends and neighbors as they rebuild their lives,” said Kiedis. Then they presented the best pop vocal album award to Carpenter for “Short n’ Sweet.”

“I really wasn’t expecting this,” she said. “This is, woo, my first Grammy so I’m going to cry.” (She’s now won two, but the earlier award was handed out a pre-telecast ceremony that many artists don’t attend.) She also performed.

Winners use speeches to lift marginalized communities in tense political climate

Shakira won Latin pop album for “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” and gave a powerful, short speech. “I want to dedicate this award to all my immigrant brothers and sisters in this country,” she said.

Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars teamed up for a cover of “California Dreamin’.” Later, SZA presented them with the award for best pop duo/group performance for “Die With A Smile.”

“Trans people are not invisible. … The queer community deserves to be lifted up,” Gaga said in her speech.

Alicia Keys was awarded the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award “DEI is not a threat, it’s a gift,” she said in her speech, referencing diversity, equity and inclusion programs that have been scrapped recently by the U.S. government and several major corporations.

For more coverage of this year’s Grammy Awards, visit: www.apnews.com/GrammyAwards

Full list of 2025 Grammy Award winners

Sun, 02/02/2025 - 21:55

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan and many more are Grammy winners.

Beyoncé won album of the year and best country album for “Cowboy Carter.” She entered Sunday’s Grammys with a leading 11 nominations, bringing her career total to 99 nods. That makes her the most nominated artist in Grammy history.

Lamar won several awards, including record of the year and song of the year, thanks to his diss track “Not Like Us.”

Show Caption1 of 40Expand

Carpenter won the day’s first award — at the early Premiere Ceremony — best pop solo performance for “Espresso.” The Beatles won best rock performance for their artificial intelligence-assisted track, “Now and Then.”

During the main telecast, Doechii won her first Grammy, becoming only the third woman to ever win best rap album. Roan won the new artist award.

Comedian Trevor Noah served as telecast host for a fifth consecutive year. Justin Trantor hosted the Premiere Ceremony.

The Grammy Awards aired live on CBS and Paramount+. Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers can view on demand.

Here’s a partial list of winners:

Album of the year

“Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé

Song of the year

“Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar

Record of the year

“Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar

Best New Artist

Chappell Roan

Best Pop Vocal Album

“Short n’ Sweet,” Sabrina Carpenter

Best Pop Solo Performance

“Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

“Die with a Smile,” Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

“Neverender,” Justice and Tame Impala

Best Pop Dance Recording

“Von dutch,” Charli xcx

Best Rap Album

“Alligator Bites Never Heal,” Doechii

Best Rap Song

“Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar, songwriter (Kendrick Lamar)

Best Rap Performance

“Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar

Best Melodic Rap Performance

“3,” Rapsody featuring Erykah Badu

Best R&B Performance

“Made For Me (Live on BET).” Muni Long

Best R&B Album

“11:11 (Deluxe),” Chris Brown

Best Traditional R&B Performance

“That’s You,” Lucky Daye

Best R&B Song

“Saturn,” Rob Bisel, Carter Lang, Solana Rowe, Jared Solomon and Scott Zhang, songwriters (SZA)

Best Progressive R&B Album

(Tie)

“Why Lawd?,” NxWorries (Anderson. Paak & Knowledge)

“So Glad to Know You,” Avery Sunshine

Best Dance Electronic Album

“BRAT,” Charli xcx

Best Rock Performance

“Now and Then,” the Beatles

Best Rock Album

“Hackney Diamonds,” the Rolling Stones

Best Remixed Recording

“Espresso (Mark Ronson x FNZ Working Late Remix),” FNZ and Mark Ronson, remixers (Sabrina Carpenter)

Best Americana Performance

“American Dreaming,” Sierra Ferrell

Best American Roots Song

“American Dreaming,” Sierra Ferrell and Melody Walker, songwriters

Best Americana Album

“Trail of Flowers,” Sierra Ferrell

Best Bluegrass Album

“Live Vol 1.,” Billy Strings

Best Folk Album

“Woodland,” Gillian Welch and David Rawlings

Best Regional Roots Music Album

“Kuini,” Kalani Pe’a

Best Gospel Performance/Song

“One Hallelujah,” Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell and Israel Houghton, featuring Jonathan McReynolds and Jekalyn Carr. G. Morris Coleman, Israel Houghton, Kenneth Leonard Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Naomi Raine, songwriters.

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

“That’s My King,” CeCe Winans, Taylor Agan, Kellie Gamble, Lloyd Nicks and Jess Russ, songwriters

Best Gospel Album

“More Than This,” CeCe Winans

Best Contemporary Christian Music Artist

“Heart of a Human,” DOE

Best Roots Gospel Album

“Church,” Cory Henry

Best Country Album

“Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé

Best Country Solo Performance

“It Takes A Woman,” Chris Stapleton

Best Country Duo/Group Performance

II MOST WANTED,” Beyoncé, featuring Miley Cyrus

Best Country Song

“The Architect,” Shane McAnally, Kacey Musgraves and Josh Osborne, songwriters (Kacey Musgraves)

Best Music Video

“American Symphony”

Best American Roots Performance

“Lighthouse,” Sierra Ferrell

Best Traditional Blues Album

“Swingin’ Live at The Church in Tulsa,” The Taj Mahal Sextet

Best Contemporary Blues Album

“Mileage,” Ruthie Foster

Best Latin Pop Album

“Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,” Shakira

Best Música Urbana Album

“Las Letras Ya No Importan,” Residente

Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album

“¿Quien Trae las Cornetas?, ”Rawayana

Best Música Mexicana Album (including Tejano)

“Boca Chueca, Vol. 1,” Carin León

Best Tropical Latin Album

“Alma, Corazon y Salsa (Live at Gran Teatro Nacional),” Tony Succar, Mimy Succar

Best Reggae Album

“Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By The Film (Deluxe),” Various Artists

Best Global Music Performance

“Bemba Colora,” Sheila E. featuring Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar

Best African Music Performance

“Love Me JeJe,” Tems

Best Jazz Vocal Album

“A Joyful Holiday,” Samara Joy

Songwriter Of The Year, non-classical

Amy Allen

Producer of the year, non-classical

Daniel Nigro

Producer of the year, classical

Elaine Martone

Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media

Hans Zimmer, “Dune: Part II”

Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media

“Maestro: Music by Leonard Bernstein,” Bradley Cooper and Yannick Nézet-Séguin, artists; Bradley Cooper, Yannick Nézet-Séguin & Jason Ruder, compilation producers; Steven Gizicki, music supervisor

BEST COMEDY ALBUM

“Dreamer,” Dave Chappelle

Dr. Dre Global Impact Award

Alicia Keys

For more coverage of this year’s Grammy Awards, visit: www.apnews.com/GrammyAwards

Carter Verhaeghe has fourth career hat trick in Panthers’ comeback victory over the red-hot Islanders

Sun, 02/02/2025 - 19:13

By ALANIS THAMES

SUNRISE — Carter Verhaeghe had his fourth career hat trick, Sam Reinhart scored his 31st goal and the Florida Panthers beat the Islanders 6-3 on Sunday night to ending New York’s winning streak at seven games.

Verhaeghe added an assist on Matthew Tkachuk’s empty-netter for a four-point night. Reinhart also had an assist.

Evan Rodrigues also scored for Florida, and Spencer Knight made 31 saves. Aleksander Barkov had three assists, and Gustav Forsling added two assists.

Kyle MacLean, Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Marc Gatcomb scored for the Islanders. Jakub Skarek stopped 27 shots.

Verhaeghe opened scoring with a backhander 39 seconds into the game and gave the Panthers a two-goal lead with 7:08 left in the period.

His third came midway through the final period when he snapped home a nice cross-ice feed from Tkachuk. It was Verhaeghe’s first hat trick since April 1, 2023, when he had four goals for the Panthers in a victory over Columbus.

Takeaways

Islanders: Had not lost a game since a 5-3 loss at home to Philadelphia on Jan. 16. That was also the last time New York gave up more than two goals. During their winning streak, the Islanders outscored opponents 24-9.

Panthers: Verhaeghe has had a strong two-game stretch, with six points (four goals and two assists).

Key moment

After New York scored three straight second-period goals to take a 3-2 lead, Rodrigues tied it with 2:08 left in the second. Reinhart followed with 51 seconds to go in the period to put the Panthers back on top.

Key stat

The Panthers had five players with multiple points: Verhaeghe (4), Barkov (3), Reinhart (2), Tkachuk (2) and Forsling (2).

Up next

Both teams return to play Tuesday night. The Islanders host Vegas, and the Panthers are at Washington.

___

AP NHL: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NHL

Jimmy Carter wins posthumous Grammy for narrating an audiobook of his Sunday school lessons

Sun, 02/02/2025 - 18:00

By MARIA SHERMAN, Associated Press Music Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Former President Jimmy Carter has won a posthumous Grammy award.

Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, died in December at age 100. Prior to his passing, Carter was nominated in the audio book, narration, and storytelling recording category at the 2025 Grammys for “Last Sundays in Plains: A Centennial Celebration,” recordings from his final Sunday School lessons delivered at Maranatha Baptist Church in Georgia. Musicians Darius Rucker, Lee Ann Rimes and Jon Batiste are featured on the record.

It’s Carter’s fourth Grammy. His posthumous Grammy joins his three previous ones for spoken word album.

If the former president won before his death, he would’ve become the oldest Grammy award winner in history.

Jason Carter, Jimmy Carter’s grandson who now chairs The Carter Center governing board, received the award on his behalf. “Having his words captured in this way for my family and for the world is truly remarkable,” he said in an acceptance speech. “Thank you to the academy.”

In the category, Jimmy Carter beat out Barbra Streisand, George Clinton, Dolly Parton and producer Guy Oldfield.

If Streisand won instead of Carter, it would have been her first Grammy win in 38 years.

Currently, the oldest person to win a Grammy was 97-year-old Pinetop Perkins in 2011.

“He’s such an enormous music fan. He loves the creative aspect of music,” Jason Carter said backstage about his grandfather. “It’s been an important part of his political life, an important part of his personal life. He’s an artist in many ways.”

Former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton have two Grammys apiece. First ladies Michelle Obama and Hilary Clinton have also each won.

Former presidents Harry S. Truman, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon were all nominated, but didn’t win.

AP Entertainment Writers Andrew Dalton and Jonathan Landrum Jr. contributed to this report. For more coverage of this year’s Grammy Awards, visit: www.apnews.com/GrammyAwards

Today in History: February 2, Alaska Serum Run ends

Sun, 02/02/2025 - 02:00

Today is Sunday, Feb. 2, the 33rd day of 2025. There are 332 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Feb. 2, 1925, the legendary Alaska Serum Run ended as the last of a series of dog mushers brought life-saving medication to Nome, the scene of a diphtheria epidemic, travelling 674 miles in just six days.

Also on this date:

In 1536, present-day Buenos Aires, Argentina, was founded by Pedro de Mendoza of Spain.

Related Articles

In 1653, New Amsterdam — now New York City — was incorporated as a city.

In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, officially ending the Mexican-American War.

In 1943, the remainder of Nazi forces from the Battle of Stalingrad surrendered in a major victory for the Soviets in World War II.

In 1990, in a dramatic concession to South Africa’s Black majority, President F.W. de Klerk lifted a ban on the African National Congress and promised to free Nelson Mandela.

In 2013, former Navy SEAL and “American Sniper” author Chris Kyle was fatally shot along with a friend, Chad Littlefield, at a gun range west of Glen Rose, Texas; Eddie Ray Routh was later convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

In 2014, Oscar-winning actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman, widely considered one of the greatest actors of his generation, was found dead in his New York apartment from an accidental drug overdose.

In 2021, the Senate approved Pete Buttigieg (BOO’-tuh-juhj) as transportation secretary, making him the first openly gay person confirmed to a Cabinet post.

In 2022, four men were charged with being part of the drug distribution crew that supplied a deadly mix of narcotics to actor Michael K. Williams of “The Wire,” who had overdosed five months earlier.

Today’s birthdays:
  • Rock singer-guitarist Graham Nash is 83.
  • Television executive Barry Diller is 83.
  • TV chef Ina Garten is 77.
  • Actor Brent Spiner is 76.
  • Football Hall of Famer Dave Casper is 73.
  • Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, is 73.
  • Model Christie Brinkley is 71.
  • Singer Shakira is 48.
  • Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., is 43.
  • Actor Gemma Arterton is 39.
  • Actor Zosia Mamet is 37.
  • Actor Paul Mescal is 29.

St. Thomas Aquinas races by Chaminade-Madonna 70-44 for BCAA Big 8 boys basketball title

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 22:55

FORT LAUDERDALE — St. Thomas Aquinas junior guard D.J. Sandi scored 20 points to lead four players in double figures as the Raiders rolled past Chaminade-Madonna, 70-44 in the BCAA boys basketball Big 8 title game at Fort Lauderdale High School on Saturday night.

Sandi, who was named the Butch Ingram MVP for the tournament, scored 14 points in the first half, including eight in the opening quarter as St. Thomas Aquinas (23-2), the state’s top-ranked Class 6A team and ranked No. 37 in the nation, seized a 31-19 halftime lead and was never challenged. The lead grew to 17 in the third as the Raiders won their seventh straight game.

“Coach (Julius Sandi, his father) always stresses that everyone has to eat and then no one can stop us,” D.J. Sandi said. “Some teams have two guys that you have to scout on, and we go five to seven deep. If everyone is eating, we are going to be good every game. Everybody is happy for everyone’s success.”

Clarence Westbrook Jr. added 13 points for St. Thomas Aquinas, while FSU commit D.J. Wimbley Jr., and Zane Elliott each finished with 10 points.

Jasen Lopez finished with 24 points to lead the Lions. Isaac Mothersill added 10 points for Chaminade-Madonna, the state’s third-ranked team in Class 2A. It also marked the first time in BCAA Big 8 history that two private schools met for the championship.

After Lopez scored on a dunk with 6:12 remaining in the first half, the Raiders went on a 14-0 run to blow the game open. Chaminade could get no closer than 13 the rest of the way.

“We just take this as it is all about us and we are trying to get better as a program,” said Julius Sandi. “I am very happy that we were able to come out on top against a very good program like Chaminade-Madonna.

“We did a very thorough scouting report, we’ve watched them enough,” the elder Sandi said. “We decided that were weren’t going to let two guys beat us technically. We made the adjustments and knew what they were running.”

Sandi said the depth and balance of his team will take them a long way.

“That is something we strive for,” he said. “We’ve had that (multiple double-figure-scoring players) in multiple games this year. If we are able to do that in every game, we are going to be hard to beat. Depth is beautiful.”

Chaminade (20-5), which joined the BCAA two years ago, was making its first trip to the Big 8 Final. Lions coach Teddy Lyons told his team afterward, “When you win it feels good, and when you lose it feels bad.

“You went 20-5 and had a helluva season. You can feel proud of your regular season,” Lyons continued, “but that is not our main goal. Everything is still in front of us, starting with our district next week and on to regionals from there. This, we are going to throw it away, and it shows us how hard we have to work to get there.”

Luka Doncic to the Lakers, Anthony Davis to the Mavs in blockbuster trade, AP source says

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 22:49

By TIM REYNOLDS

Luka Doncic led Dallas to the NBA Finals last season. Anthony Davis won a championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.

They’re switching teams now — in an absolute blockbuster.

Doncic is being traded by the reigning Western Conference champion Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis, a person with knowledge of the agreement said early Sunday.

Doncic, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris are headed to the Lakers, while Davis and Max Christie are going to Dallas, said the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither team can announce the deal while it awaits league approval.

The Utah Jazz also are involved in the deal, said the source. ESPN, which first reported the trade, said Jalen Hood-Schifino and two draft picks will be headed to the Jazz. The Dallas Morning News also reported those details on the trade.

The trade news broke about an hour after the Lakers beat New York at Madison Square Garden. Davis was not with the Lakers for the game; he has been back in Los Angeles because of an abdominal injury that needed assessing.

Doncic has not played for Dallas since Christmas Day, when he was sidelined with a strained left calf.

“I believe that defense wins championships,” Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison told ESPN. “I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance. We’re built to win now and in the future.”

The deal, at least for now, would pair Doncic with LeBron James as the new 1-2 punch in Los Angeles, while Davis would be forming a new star duo with Kyrie Irving in Dallas. And it also reunites Doncic with his former teammate, Lakers coach JJ Redick.

Doncic was one of the Mavs on the floor when Redick came out of a game for the final time on May 11, 2021.

There was one game still going on in the NBA on Saturday night when reports began swirling of the trade, that being Phoenix-Portland. Suns guard Devin Booker said someone in the stands told him and his teammates of the trade.

“They said Luka. I said, ‘Luka Garza?’” Booker said, referencing a Minnesota center.

Booker wasn’t trying to be funny. He just thought what many probably thought — that there was no way the Mavericks would move Doncic.

“It’s crazy, man. I really don’t know what to say about it,” Booker said. “Luka being a guy that everybody has claimed is untouchable and untradeable. The NBA shows you again. Can’t predict. It’s a business. They’re always having a conversation about you. So don’t think you’re safer than you are.”

Added fellow Suns star Kevin Durant: “Insane. It’s crazy. Crazy. Damn, would of never thought Luka Doncic would get traded. At his age, midseason, the NBA is a wild place, man. If he can get traded then anybody is up for grabs.”

And there was immediate shock on social media when the news hit as well.

“Luka getting traded from Dallas has to have a deeper story behind it,” Cleveland center Tristan Thompson wrote on X. “This just doesn’t happen on a random Saturday night.”

“Wait what?” posted Patrick Mahomes, the star Kansas City quarterback who sits courtside at Mavs games occasionally during the offseason, NBA playoffs included.

And Knicks guard Jalen Brunson wondered in another post if it was a joke: “April fools right?” he asked.

Evidently not.

Dallas plays at Cleveland on Sunday, while the Lakers are off until visiting the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night. It’s not clear when Doncic or Davis could play for their new clubs: the trade needs NBA approval, and both are dealing with injuries without any publicly known firm timetable for their returns.

Among players with at least 400 games, Doncic’s 28.6-point average is third in NBA history behind only Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain — both at 30.1. When healthy, he’s typically somewhere between dynamic and unstoppable.

He was third in the MVP voting last season after averaging 33.9 points, 9.8 assists and 9.2 rebounds per game, easily one of the greatest statistical seasons in league history. Doncic — who turns 26 later this month and has referred to James as an “idol” — had a 73-point game against Atlanta on Jan. 26, 2024, tying the fourth-highest scoring total ever in an NBA game. Only Chamberlain (100), Kobe Bryant (81) and Chamberlain (78) scored more.

Davis, an All-Star pick this year for the 10th time in his career, turns 32 next month. He’s part of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team, helped the Lakers win the NBA title in the bubble in 2020, and — like Doncic — is a five-time All-NBA selection.

And for Doncic, there could be a massive — $115 million — cost to this trade.

Doncic could have signed a supermax contract this coming summer, one that could have paid him about $345 million over five seasons. He’s still extension-eligible, but likely cannot sign a five-year deal worth more than $230 million this summer now.

Doncic is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.8 assists this season. Davis is averaging 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds.

___

AP Sports Writer Schuyler Dixon in Dallas and AP freelance writer Erik Garcia Gundersen in Portland, Oregon, contributed to this report.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

Daily Horoscope for February 02, 2025

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 22:00
General Daily Insight for February 02, 2025

The most obvious course of action could be all it takes to meet our needs today. As the impulsive Aries Moon sextiles logical Mercury at 11:35 am EST, we can listen to our intuition and still keep an eye on the big picture. Luna goes on to collaborate with both fortunate Jupiter and the vibrant Sun, so we’re probably on the right track. Running our plans by the people in our lives is a good step, but we don’t have to overthink things.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

You’re currently equipped to make a case to your peers or colleagues for your preferred course of action. You’ll probably succeed in convincing them, because this path forward isn’t simply about what you personally want. While the passionate Moon in your sign stimulates articulate Mercury and the vital Sun, both in your social 11th house, you’re likely to be the one who says what others are thinking as well. Perhaps it’s a bit of extra responsibility, but you can handle it!

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Thinking clearly about the practical side of your life is feasible now. As the perceptive Moon in your contemplative 12th house aligns with calculating Mercury in your ambition zone, you can see reasonable goals and the resources you’ll need to achieve them. You might not want to share your thoughts with others at this point, though, as their opinions could end up being more distracting than useful. Make sure you fully understand your plans yourself before you bring anyone else into them.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

You may be in almost constant contact with friends and acquaintances throughout the day. Being in demand could be a fun boost for your ego. As the connection-craving Moon in your 11th House of Community winds up both clever Mercury and the lively Sun in your intellectual 9th house, you’re aware that you have a lot of information to share with others. Keep in mind, however, that they might have valuable insights to offer you as well — it’s a two-way street!

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Making information public could be necessary without warning. While the visible Moon in your 10th House of Reputation aligns with energetic Jupiter in your secretive 12th house, sharing a bit of what you’ve had going on behind the scenes lately is likely to go well for you. Of course, you don’t necessarily need to give all your secrets away at once. Start with whatever amount of disclosure seems manageable — that should give you enough to talk about for the time being.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Following your curiosity could serve you well today. While the inquisitive Moon in your thoughtful 9th house engages with helpful Jupiter in your social sector, you’ll probably find learning more fun if you can make it a joint effort with other people. Although you’ll feed your brain, there’s no shame in admitting that your emotional side needs attention too. Take this opportunity to build relationships that have the potential to last beyond your present quest by getting to know your companions.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

A major goal is in sight at this very moment, so blaze ahead! Putting in your fair portion of the work is probably no problem for you. As the vulnerable Moon in your 8th House of Sharing looks to brilliant Mercury in your productive 6th house, perhaps your more pressing task is finding a helper. There’s no shame in admitting that you can’t do everything all by yourself. Look for alliances that are set up to benefit everyone involved — they’re out there!

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Pleasure could be especially rewarding when it’s shared today. While the openhearted Moon in your partnership sector reaches out to exuberant Jupiter in your adventure zone, doing something outside your usual routine with a companion should let you get to know each other better. It’s a great way to rejuvenate an established relationship or start a new one off on the right foot. Although reality often has its demands, connecting with whatever makes you happy will restore your energy for everything else!

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Finding firm footing is presently possible. As the observant Moon in your responsible 6th house supports rational Mercury in your 4th House of Roots, you’re likely grounded in the practical world. That doesn’t mean all the effort should be solely on you — you’re equipped to work constructively with others toward common goals. When you’re in a stable place, you have a good sense of what’s a fair trade. Don’t pull more than your weight, even if you have the energy to do so.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Defining what brings you pleasure could be useful at the moment. It’s true that sometimes you encounter people who surprise you with brilliant ideas you would never have thought of on your own. Still, you help yourself when you can meet serendipity partway. As the emotional Moon in your 5th House of Joy opens a dialogue with verbal Mercury in your communication sector, try to put into words what would make your heart sing. Start looking for it yourself, then see what happens next.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

The security you crave may seem to be within your reach at the moment. While the sensitive Moon in your 4th House of Nurturing looks to confident Jupiter in your hardworking 6th house, realizing how much you’re able to accomplish with your two hands is likely to bring you comfort. You might also be pleasantly surprised by a thoughtful inventory of the resources already available to you. Even if you don’t yet have everything you want, you can make the best of what you have.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Communicating with flair and passion is an option now. When the volatile Moon in your verbal 3rd house eggs on inflated Jupiter in your 5th House of Self-Expression, you can lean into the drama as you tell a grand tale. You might as well use this energy to support a cause that really matters to you — definitely avoid squandering it on petty conflicts. Even if you feel a little self-conscious about being a hero, perhaps it’s legitimately your turn to do so!

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Looking behind the ongoing scenes could reveal some pleasant surprises for you. As the intuitive Moon in your 2nd House of Resources collaborates with insightful Mercury in your out-of-the-way 12th house, you may be reminded of a source of support that you’d forgotten about. Thanks to this, your foundation is potentially more secure than it appears. You don’t have to share your findings with everyone you know, but you deserve to take advantage of such a chance to lower your stress levels.

Flowers, Northeast rally, stun top-ranked St. Thomas Aquinas to win BCAA girls basketball Big 8

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 21:46

FORT LAUDERDALE — Nykeria Flowers was a terror on both ends of the court and helped Northeast rally from an early 12-point deficit to take home its first BCAA Big 8 championship as the Hurricanes stunned St. Thomas Aquinas 42-39 at Fort Lauderdale High School.

Flowers said her team wasn’t concerned by the early deficit. She was awarded the Marcia Pinder MVP Award following her game-high 20-point effort.

“It wasn’t a lot,” said Flowers, who played four years at Dillard before transferring to the Hurricanes for her senior year. “We are a second-half team. We came out strong and we played with a lot of motivation. This gives us a lot of confidence.

“I just am doing my job and leading a young team and playing my role,” added Flowers, who scored eight points in the second half, including six in the fourth quarter. She also drew three key charges in the second half. “This is big-time. It’s the first Big 8 championship and it is a big moment for me and my team. This is something that Northeast hasn’t done in a long time.”

Four-time consecutive state champion St. Thomas Aquinas (15-8) entered the contest ranked No. 1 in the state in Class 6A. The teams hadn’t played each other in more than two decades, with it being the Hurricanes’ first appearance in the Big 8 final.

St. Thomas Aquinas outscored Northeast 13-4 in the second quarter to break open a close game and seize a 25-15 halftime cushion. After the Raiders’ Ron’neisha Thomas hit a basket to start the third quarter and give St. Thomas Aquinas a 27-15 advantage, Northeast started to battle back to close to within 31-28 with 3:10 left in the third on a 3-pointer by Ya’Niyah Young. Young was the only other player for Northeast scoring in double figures with 13 points.

The fourth quarter belonged to Flowers and the Hurricanes who outscored St. Thomas 14-7 in the period and held on for the win. Northeast took the lead for good at 41-39 with 1:46 remaining in the contest on Summer Williams’ layup, her only points of the night. Jazmine Jones added a free throw with one second left for the final margin.

Northeast coach Lawrence Hanna said his team is focused on winning a state title. The Hurricanes (23-2) have won seven straight games as the team is preparing for the postseason. Northeast is ranked No. 3 in the state in Class 5A.

“We are scrappy,” Hanna said. “The girls don’t give up. No matter what type of game it is we show our versatility. Yesterday we didn’t make any threes, and today we hit some (six) and relied on our defense.

“I told them in the locker room at halftime to keep fighting,” Hanna added. “Nykeria is a veteran leader. She is a five-year starter on varsity. In the second half, we got our confidence and kept it up. I told them to play our style, not their style, and just fight.”

St. Thomas Aquinas was led by London Thomas, who finished with 11 points.

“I am a coach that encourages my players to shoot,” said St. Thomas Aquinas coach Brandon Stewart. “We’ve had plenty of times when we have made those shots.

“I am not the type of coach who is mad when you miss it,” continued Stewart. “Northeast picked it up on defense in the second half and I think the crowd got into it.”

Stewart said his team has to do a better job of keeping their composure under pressure.

“A lot of the environments we are going to play in during the playoffs are going to be like this,” he said. “We have a chance to do something exciting this year and everything we are doing right now is just preparation for the future.”

The Northeast Lady Hurricanes celebrate winning the BCAA Big 8 girls basketball title. (Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

Winderman’s view: Heat’s Terry Rozier provides support amid what might be his time of need

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 21:06

Observations and other notes of interest from Saturday night’s 105-103 victory over the San Antonio Spurs:

– Terry Rozier insisted at Friday’s practice that he would be able to keep his mind on the game amid being linked to a federal gambling probe, news that broke this week.

– To his credit, Rozier did just that on Saturday night, with eyes on the rim.

– For all transpiring around him, including the ongoing Heat suspension of Jimmy Butler, Rozier arguably is in the midst of his best stretch of the season.

– First, 22 points on Wednesday night against the Cavaliers.

– Then this performance, when he tied his season high of five 3-pointers by the midpoint of the third period.

– Playing as closer, when closing plays were needed amid the struggles of Tyler Herro.

– Just over a year after being acquired from Charlotte (with the gambling allegations dating to his time with the Hornets),  Rozier appears to be finding his comfort in the second unit, amid Erik Spoelstra’s revised rotation.

– This time 19 points, on a night when only Bam Adebayo, with his 30, and game winner, had more for the Heat.

– This time making five 3-pointers when Herro made none.

– Also with the hustle of seven rebounds.

– Keeping his mind in the game when it assuredly could have been elsewhere.

– For a fourth consecutive game the Heat again opened with a lineup of Herro, Adebayo, Kel’el Ware, Haywood Highsmith and Duncan Robinson.

– It was Ware’s sixth consecutive start.

– Amid the aforementioned outside concerns, Rozier entered in the Heat’s first substitution along with Nikola Jovic.

– Jamie Jaquez Jr. then followed off the Heat bench.

– With Jovic called for three early fouls, Pelle Larsson then entered for the first time midway through the second quarter, making it nine deep for the Heat.

– Jovic extended his career-best streak to 13 consecutive games with a 3-pointer, two games shy of his longest such career streak.

– It was Herro’s 71st consecutive regular-season game scoring in double figures. As a means of comparison, Jimmy Butler’s longest such Heat streak is 63 consecutive games. The franchise record is 294 by LeBron James.

– The game was the first in a run of 9 of 10 on the road for the Heat, with only one home game (Feb. 10 against Boston) until Feb. 26.

– “We just understand we have an opportunity on the road,” Spoelstra said at the morning shootaround. “We know that we’re not going to be in Miami very often, so you really want to take on this challenge. It’s tough competition.”

– Of the trip, Ware said Saturday, “I feel like this is a road trip where we can come in and compete and try to find more of a rhythm that we’ve been searching for.”

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– While the Heat defeated the Spurs 128-107 two weeks ago in Miami, Spoelstra went into Saturday more concerned about how the Spurs looked in Friday night’s 144-118 victory over the visiting Bucks.

– “They had 31 transition points last night,” Spoelstra said pregame .”And that kind of set the table for everything. Once you get those easy baskets, then the threes start falling and the drives, attacks, all that. We can expect a different team than we faced in Miami.”

– That was offered before it was learned Spurs center Victor Wembanyama would be out due to illness.

– Spoelstra went in stressing the need for the Heat to show physicality at the start of the four-game trip.

– “For us, it’s always important to set the tone in all the big-muscle areas,” he said. “That’ll be the case tonight. With our team, it’s not just the front line, but it’s throughout the rotation.”

– Spoelstra was asked about stepping in as Heat coach for Pat Riley, with assistant Mitch Johnson serving as interim coach as Gregg Popovich recovers from a stroke.

– “All of his time with the Spurs I think has prepared him for it, without even knowing it,” Spoelstra said. “I think that is the comparison. I didn’t think I was ready. You never really are when you move over from the assistant coach’s seat 12 inches to the next seat until you just get thrown into it. But this is a team that has gotten better. They’re developing an identity and they’re coming off a great game last night.”

Bam Adebayo wins it at buzzer for Heat 105-103 in San Antonio

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 21:02

Because there never is an easy button for the 2024-25 Miami Heat.

Not even with the San Antonio Spurs forced at the last minute Saturday night to go without ill All-Star big man Victor Wembanyama.

Not even with the Spurs playing on the second night of a back-to-back set and the Heat idle the previous two days.

Not even with the Heat attempting to remove further distraction with the third suspension of the season for forward Jimmy Butler.

So there stood Erik Spoelstra’s team, teetering in the fourth quarter Saturday night amid arguably Bam Adebayo’s best game of the season.

And there stood Adebayo, making sure the night would not go to waste, converting a 19-foot jumper at the buzzer to salvage the 105-103 victory at Frost Bank Center at the start of a four-game trip.

“It’s been an uphill battle for us all season,” Adebayo said. “Coach put the ball in my hands.”

With the instructions of?

“Get a bucket,’ he said.

One of many, with Adebayo closing with 30 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists, three blocked shots and two steals.

And all of that needed, on a nightly freshly minted Heat All-Star Tyler Herro was limited to 11 points on 4-of-16 shooting, going without a 3-pointer for the first time this season.

“We needed a place where the ball could go,” Spoelstra said of Adebayo’s winning basket, “and he was very efficient.

“I’m just really happy for Bam. He got to a clean look, he got to his spot and was able to elevate. It was just a beautiful look. To see it floating in the air and then you see the clock go, that’s got to be a great feeling for him.”

It was.

“As a kid,” Adebayo said, “you always dream of moments like that, in the backyard, ‘Three, two, one. Buzzer.’ And it just so happened that I’ve had a couple of those in my career. Being able to be in those situations and to actually get the job done is a great feeling, because my teammates and my coaches trust me to get the job done.”

The Heat also got 19 points from Terry Rozier and 12 rebounds from center Kel’el Ware

Five Degrees of Heat from Saturday night’s game:

1. Closing time: The teams were tied 33-33 after the first quarter, with the Heat then going into halftime up 60-56, a 39-foot 3-point heave conversion by Herro deemed on replay to have come after the second-quarter buzzer.

The Heat then went up 11 in the third period, with the Spurs immediately responding with a 10-0 run. It ultimately left the Heat with an 85-82 lead going into the fourth.

“I mean, we just weren’t really consistent,” said Heat backup big man Nikola Jovic, who closed with 14 points and seven rebounds. “We would be getting on a great run and we’ll have an eight- or 10-point lead, and they would just storm right back.”

The Heat then appeared to go up six early in the fourth quarter, but a Duncan Robinson 3-pointer subsequently was ruled after the shot clock during an ensuing video review.

Through it all, there was a 99-96 Spurs lead with 5:12 to play.

From there, a pair of Herro free throws put the Heat up 101-99 with 2:23 to play, with Spurs guard Chris Paul tying it 101-101 with 1:36 to play on a pair of free throws of his own.

Baskets by Ware and Paul later had it tied 103-103 with 59 seconds to play.

Then, from there, misses on each end had the Heat in possession with 3.2 seconds to play.

Off a timeout, the Heat went to Adebayo and found salvation.

“He had it going all night,” Rozier said. “We got to feed him, feed our captain. A walkoff, game winner, so I’m happy for him. Just build on the win, that’s the most important thing.”

2. Adebayo active: Adebayo stood with 14 points, six rebounds and six assists at halftime, as well as two blocked shots.

Adebayo then opened the second-half scoring with a 3-pointer, after going 0 for 2 from beyond the arc in the first half, converting another 3-pointer midway through the third quarter.

It was the second game in a row Adebayo had multiple 3-pointers.

Adebayo accounted for the Heat’s first 13 points of the third period, with 10 points and an assist on a 3-pointer.

It was Adebayo’s 217th career regular-season double-double, now four shy of Rony Seikaly’s franchise record.

He closed 13 of 21 from the field, 2 of 5 on 3-pointers.

“I was shocked he didn’t have a triple-double,” Spoelstra said. “It felt like he had the assists.”

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3. Playing through: Despite being linked to an ongoing federal gambling investigation, Rozier remained in the Heat rotation, entering in Spoelstra’s first substitution, along with Jovic.

Rozier, at .889 from the line entering the night, then missed his first two free-throw attempts to go scoreless in the first quarter, after scoring 22 in his previous outing.

Rozier then opened the Heat’s second-quarter scoring with a pair of 3-pointers, adding two more 3-pointers in the period, for a 12-point second quarter.

“I’m about to start heating up, about to start heating up,” Rozier said. “It’s a matter of time. Just stay with it, that’s what I’ve been doing all season. It’ll happen.”

He finished 7 of 14 from the field, adding seven rebounds and four assists.

“We like it when Terry is assertive,” Spoelstra said. “You feel his speed, he’s a great open catch-and-shoot 3-point shooter.”

Rozier and the Heat have declined to comment on the investigation.

4. Wembanyama out: A night after going for 30 points, 14 rebounds and six blocked shots in the Spurs’ 144-118 Friday night home victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, Wembanyama was a late scratch due to illness.

Wembanyama went for 21 points and 10 rebounds in the teams’ previous meeting, a 128-107 Heat victory Jan. 19 at Kaseya Center.

The Heat nonetheless remained with Adebayo and Ware starting together for the sixth consecutive game, with Ware defended by veteran forward Harrison Barnes at the outset.

5. Immediate struggles: In his first game since being named a first-time All-Star, Herro this time stood with six points on 3-of-11 shooting through three quarters, at 0 for 6 on 3-pointers at that stage.

Herro again stood as the focus on the Spurs’ defense, having been faceguarded by Spurs rookie forward Stephon Castle in the team’s previous meeting, an 18-point performance.

Castle fouled out with 4:35 to play, on a foul committed against Herro.

And so, Herro’s franchise-record streak of games with at least one 3-pointer came to an end at 79. He had converted multiple 3-pointers in his previous 12 games.

Still, teammates cited Herro’s eight assists, four rebounds and screen that helped free Adebayo for the game winner.

“If it’s not falling for him, he doesn’t get about himself,” Adebayo said. “He just finds a way to impact winning.”

Spoelstra agreed.

“Tyler, it’s great,” Spoelstra said, “because it shows that you can impact the game even if you’re having an off shooting night.”

Jack Bech shines in Senior Bowl a month after brother’s death in New Orleans truck attack

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 18:49

MOBILE, Ala. (AP) — Former TCU receiver Jack Bech caught the winning touchdown pass and was named MVP of the Senior Bowl on Saturday, a month after his older brother was among 14 killed in the deadly pickup truck attack in New Orleans.

Bech caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan to give the American Team a 22-19 win over the National Team.

Martin “Tiger” Bech was among those killed when the driver of a pickup sped down Bourbon Street when it was packed with holiday revelers early on New Year’s Day. The attack also injured about 30 people.

The older Bech played at Princeton, and his brother wore his No. 7 in his honor at the Senior Bowl. They both played high school football in Louisiana.

Jack Bech, who wore No. 18 for the Horned Frogs, played two seasons at TCU after transferring from LSU. He was the fifth TCU receiver to record a 1,000-yard season, finishing with 1,034 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

___

AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Jack Bech shines in Senior Bowl a month after brother’s death in New Orleans truck attack

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 18:49

MOBILE, Ala. (AP) — Former TCU receiver Jack Bech caught the winning touchdown pass and was named MVP of the Senior Bowl on Saturday, a month after his older brother was among 14 killed in the deadly pickup truck attack in New Orleans.

Bech caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan to give the American Team a 22-19 win over the National Team.

Martin “Tiger” Bech was among those killed when the driver of a pickup sped down Bourbon Street when it was packed with holiday revelers early on New Year’s Day. The attack also injured about 30 people.

The older Bech played at Princeton, and his brother wore his No. 7 in his honor at the Senior Bowl. They both played high school football in Louisiana.

Jack Bech, who wore No. 18 for the Horned Frogs, played two seasons at TCU after transferring from LSU. He was the fifth TCU receiver to record a 1,000-yard season, finishing with 1,034 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

___

AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Shorthanded UCF struggles late in loss to BYU

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 16:37

With its top scorer sidelined due to foul trouble and its postseason hopes hanging in the balance, UCF basketball found itself in an untenable situation.

Even down four players — including leading scorer Keyshawn Hall,  who missed most of the first half in foul trouble — the Knights managed to keep the game close against visiting BYU before eventually falling 81-75 at home on Saturday.

Hall picked up two quick fouls and then was assessed a technical foul at the 13:26 mark in the first half after arguing with officials. The junior entered the game averaging 18 points per game and was coming off a 34-point performance in the team’s 91-87 loss at No. 11 Kansas on Tuesday.

Fueled by the technical call, UCF went on a 12-3 run that pushed the Knights to their first lead.

Center Moustapha Thiam scored 10 first-half points, highlighted by a dunk and a short hook shot that helped extend UCF’s lead to 40-38 at the half.

Thiam played a pivotal role in the second half, scoring seven straight points, grabbing four rebounds and blocking two shots in the first 10 minutes after BYU went on an 8-0 run to retake the lead.

But the Cougars went on a 15-10 run in the final five minutes to hang on for the win.

Point guard Darius Johnson spent much of the second half on the bench with four fouls.

“That’s tough when you lose two more experienced players,” coach Johnny Dawkins said of Hall and Johnson being hampered by foul trouble. “I don’t need them sitting next to me. They have to do a better job of being disciplined, understanding that they will potentially add fouls with technicals or pick up fouls in frustration. We can’t have that and must be more mature when we play.”

BYU’s Richie Saunders scored 22 points (18 on 3-pointers) and Mawot Mag had 19 points.

Hall scored 18 of his 20 points in the second half, Thiam had 17 points and 6 rebounds, and Johnson added 16.

The Knights were again without the services of guard Jaylin Sellers, who has been out of the lineup most of the season with an undisclosed injury. Sellers missed the first half of the season and returned for three games but hasn’t seen any action since Jan. 5.

Guard Mikey Williams and forward JJ Taylor were also absent, which was reported as the flu bug.

“Guys were a little sick, but that’s part of the game,” said Dawkins. “Everybody’s battling that right now. This year has probably been more than any year.”

UCF (13-8, 4-6 Big 12) has dropped two straight games for the third time this season and the first time since losing to No. 10 Houston (69-68) and No. 3 Iowa State (108-83) on Jan. 18 and Jan. 21.

BYU (15-6, 6-4 Big 12) won its fourth consecutive game and continued its hardwood dominance over the Knights, having won all four meetings in the series.

“We know where we are in our season,” said BYU coach Kevin Young. “We let a couple of games go early in the year that we felt were right there for us. Our guys stayed the course. But we know that we have work to do, and this was a step in the right direction for that against a good team that’s well-coached.”

The loss dampened the Knights’ postseason hopes.

Several bracketology projections indicated that the UCF was on the NCAA tourney bubble heading into Saturday’s game. CBS Sports listed the Knights as a 10th seed and ESPN tabbed them as the last team in the 68-team field.

Matt Murschel can be reached at mmurschel@orlandosentinel.com

UP NEXT

UCF vs. Cincinnati

When: Wednesday, 7 p.m., Addition Financial Arena

TV: CBS Sports Network

Today in History: February 1, Black students begin sit-in protest at Woolworth’s whites-only counter

Sat, 02/01/2025 - 02:00

Today is Saturday, Feb. 1, the 32nd day of 2025. There are 333 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Feb. 1, 1960, four Black college students began a sit-in protest at a Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina, where they had been refused service.

Also on this date:

In 1865, abolitionist John S. Rock became the first Black lawyer admitted to the bar of the U.S. Supreme Court.

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In 1943, during World War II, one of America’s most highly decorated military units, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, made up almost exclusively of Japanese Americans, was activated.

In 1959, men in Switzerland rejected giving women the right to vote by a more than 2-to-1 margin in a referendum. (Swiss women finally gained the right to vote in 1971.)

In 1979, Iranian religious leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini (hoh-MAY’-nee) was welcomed home by millions in Tehran as he ended nearly 15 years of exile.

In 1991, an arriving USAir jetliner crashed atop a commuter plane on a runway at Los Angeles International Airport, resulting in 35 deaths.

In 1994, Jeff Gillooly, Tonya Harding’s ex-husband, pleaded guilty in Portland, Oregon, to racketeering for his part in the attack on figure skater Nancy Kerrigan in exchange for a 24-month sentence and a $100,000 fine.

In 2002, Wall Street Journal journalist Daniel Pearl was killed by Islamist militants in Pakistan after being kidnapped nine days earlier.

In 2003, the space shuttle Columbia broke apart as it re-entered the earth’s atmosphere, killing all seven crew members: commander Rick Husband; pilot William McCool; payload commander Michael Anderson; mission specialists Kalpana Chawla, David Brown and Laurel Clark; and payload specialist Ilan Ramon.

In 2016, the World Health Organization declared a global emergency over the explosive spread of the Zika virus, which was linked to birth defects in the Americas.

Today’s birthdays:
  • Actor Garrett Morris is 88.
  • Political commentator Fred Barnes is 82.
  • Princess Stephanie of Monaco is 60.
  • Actor Sherilyn Fenn is 60.
  • U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer Michelle Akers is 59.
  • Comedian-actor Pauly Shore is 57.
  • Actor Michael C. Hall is 54.
  • Rapper Big Boi (Outkast) is 50.
  • Singer-songwriter Jason Isbell is 46.
  • TV personality Lauren Conrad is 39.
  • Mixed martial artist Ronda Rousey is 38.
  • Actor Julia Garner is 31.
  • Singer-actor Harry Styles is 31.

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