News

Today is Saturday, Dec. 7, the 342nd day of 2024. There are 24 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Dec. 7, 1941, the Empire of Japan launched an air raid on the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, killing more than 2,300 Americans. The United States declared war against Japan the following day.

Also on this date:

In 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

Related Articles

• National News | Connecticut court upholds $965 million verdict against Alex Jones in Sandy Hook
• National News | USDA orders nationwide testing of milk for bird flu to halt the virus
• National News | More than a million oven gloves are being recalled after consumers report 92 minor burns
• National News | Here’s where police are being investigated for excessive force, discrimination and other allegations
• National News | Crews recover the body of a woman from a Pennsylvania sinkhole after a 4-day search

In 1972, America’s last crewed moon mission to date was launched as Apollo 17 blasted off from Cape Canaveral.

In 1982, convicted murderer Charlie Brooks Jr. became the first U.S. prisoner to be executed by lethal injection, at a prison in Huntsville, Texas.

In 1988, a major earthquake in the Soviet Union devastated northern Armenia, killing at least 25,000 people.

In 1993, six people were killed and 19 wounded in a mass shooting aboard a Long Island Rail Road train in New York.

In 2004, Hamid Karzai (HAH’-mihd KAHR’-zeye) was sworn in as Afghanistan’s first popularly elected president.

In 2018, James Alex Fields Jr., who drove his car into a crowd of counterprotesters at a 2017 white nationalist rally in Virginia, was convicted of first-degree murder.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Linguist and political philosopher Noam Chomsky is 96.
• Actor Ellen Burstyn is 92.
• Baseball Hall of Famer Johnny Bench is 77.
• Singer-songwriter Tom Waits is 75.
• Sen. Susan M. Collins, R-Maine, is 72.
• Basketball Hall of Famer Larry Bird is 68.
• Actor Jeffrey Wright is 59.
• Actor C. Thomas Howell is 58.
• Football Hall of Famer Terrell Owens is 51.
• Football Hall of Famer Alan Faneca is 48.
• Actor Shiri Appleby is 46.
• Singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles (bah-REHL’-es) is 45.
• Actor Nicholas Hoult is 35.
• MLB All-Star Pete Alonso is 30.
• Olympic swimming gold medalist Torri Huske is 22.

BOCA RATON — West Boca Raton is heading to the football state championship for the first time in school history after a dramatic finish as the host Bulls survived for a thrilling 14-11 victory against Southridge in a Class 6A state semifinal on Friday night.

West Boca led 14-11 and had their offense on the field on fourth down inside the Southridge 35-yard line with 16 seconds left.

Sophomore quarterback Trey Moran rolled out to his right, faced heavy pressure from the defense and was unable to get the throw off as he lost the ball on a fumble.

Southridge senior Joshua McDowell recovered the ball and sprinted down the left sideline, but West Boca senior Jordyan Walters hustled for a game-saving tackle, forced fumble and recovery in the end zone that resulted in a touchback with three seconds left. McDowell, who had reached out with the ball for the end zone, was not ruled down at the 1-yard line before the ball came loose.

Walters, a wide receiver on offense, stepped up with the biggest play of the season for the Bulls.

“That last 20 seconds might have been the craziest I have seen in a long time in a football game,” West Boca coach Dylan Potts said. “We have earned the right to go play next Friday. Our kids have put the work in. This was a great football game tonight. We knew Southridge was a very good opponent. We found a way to get it done. At the end of the day, we preach all the time to play to the last second and we did that tonight.”

Southridge had failed to convert on fourth-and-7 at the West Boca 46 with 1:53 left. West Boca took over on offense after a 15-yard penalty had been called after the play on Southridge. West Boca attempted to run down the clock as Southridge had only one timeout remaining. West Boca ran the clock down to 16 seconds left and called a timeout prior to fourth down.

“We are going to run a little quarterback sweep and waste a little bit of time and kind of slide down,” Potts said. “We knew it would be hard for them to go 60 yards. He got to the sideline and the ball kind of came out. Our kids fought to the end. [Jordyan] made probably one of the best plays that I have ever seen right there when you talk about an effort and hustle play.”

West Boca has won four consecutive home playoff games to reach the state championship behind an impressive defense, which has allowed just a combined total of 25 points.

“It’s hard work and dedication that we put in every day to get to where we are,” West Boca junior defensive lineman Xavier Reid said. “Our defense is the core of our team. We try to outwork everybody. We love the pressure and we live for it. I am really proud of these guys.”

Southridge had a blocked punt and started their opening drive on offense at the West Boca 30. The Spartans settled for a 39-yard field goal to make it 3-0.

Southridge had another scoring opportunity with first-and-goal at the West Boca 4-yard line. The momentum of the game changed as senior Marc-Sanchtz Lordeus scooped up a loose ball for an 89-yard fumble recovery return for a touchdown as the Bulls had a 7-3 advantage with 3:09 left in the first.

Senior Aaron Ford had a 75-yard interception for a score called back on a penalty by the Bulls on the return in the second quarter. West Boca failed to score and had a 7-3 advantage at halftime.

The Bulls marched downfield for a scoring drive to make it 14-3 with 6:14 left in the third quarter. On third-and-goal, Moran scrambled to his right and rushed for a 1-yard score.

The Spartans offense responded in the fourth quarter. On fourth-and-4, sophomore quarterback James Perrone connected with senior wide receiver Darius Clements for a 50-yard touchdown. Perrone then fired a two-point pass to senior James Gatewood to cut the deficit to 14-11 with 5:05 left.

West Boca star running back Javian Mallory was held out of the contest and his status has yet to be determined for the state final. West Boca will play Osceola on Friday at 12:30 p.m. at FIU’s Pitbull Stadium.

“It’s special and it’s something we talked about from day one,” Potts said. “We fully believed in what we’re doing. The school believed in us. I thank our administration, the community and everyone that just believed in us and gave us all the support we needed in the world. We just knew we get to year three of this, we are going to have a chance to make a run at it. We just find a way to win tough football games. That’s what we have done all year. It’s not easy and it’s part of the reason we put together the schedule in the regular season to get us prepared for moments like this.”

HOLLYWOOD — While junior wide receiver Jasen Lopez will be making his first appearance in a FHSAA state championship football game, his Chaminade-Madonna teammates are quite familiar with state championship contests.

The host Lions, ranked No. 14 nationally, are headed to a state record ninth straight championship contest after rolling past visiting Trinity Christian Academy 35-6 in the Class 1A state semifinal on Friday night.

Chaminade-Madonna senior receiver Kyle Washington picks up a big gain in the Lions’ 35-6 victory over Trinity Christian Academy in the Class 1A state semifinal on Friday night to advance to a state-record ninth consecutive state championship game. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (Gary Curreri/Contributor)

Sophomore quarterback Tyler Chance threw for three touchdowns, while senior QB and Penn State commit Bekkem Kritza tossed two scoring passes of his own as they alternated series throughout the evening. The duo combined to go 18 of 24 for 310 yards as the Lions won their 12th straight game following two early losses against St. John Bosco (34-27) and Blanche Ely (35-34 in overtime).

Chance got the start because Chaminade-Madonna (12-2) was looking to get off to a fast start and capitalize on Trinity Christian Academy having many of its players going both ways.

The Conquerors (10-4) were the last team to defeat Chaminade-Madonna in the state playoffs but since then the Lions have won three straight state championships.

The Lions advance to the state championship game on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at Pitbull Stadium on the campus of FIU in Miami. It’s a rematch of last year‘s final against Clearwater Central Catholic. Chaminade-Madonna won that game 56-0.

Lopez, who transferred to Chaminade-Madonna at the start of the year, hauled in four passes for 65 yards, including a highlight-reel one-handed 23-yard score in the back of the end zone. He had two touchdowns on the night. Juniors Denairius Gray, and Derrek Cooper, along with senior Kyle Washington also found the back of the end zone.

Chaminade-Madonna senior quarterback Bekkem Kritza gets a pass off in the Lions’ 35-6 victory over Trinity Christian Academy in the Class 1A state semifinal on Friday night to advance to a state-record ninth consecutive state championship game. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (Gary Curreri/Contributor)

“We were in need of a big play there,” Lopez said of his one-handed TD grab. “We were obviously up 21-0 and it was third-and-long. The coaches called my number, and I just made a play for them. It was the best catch I’ve ever had.

“This is really big, it’s my first time going to state,” said Lopez, who has 84 catches for 1,258 yards and 13 TDs on the year. “Being able to be a part of a state championship team is something big for me and definitely one for the books. I feel our game-planning has gotten better as the season has gone on.”

Trinity Christian Academy, which struggled most of the night offensively, got a late touchdown on a 71-yard scoring run by Areyion Guyton with a little over a minute remaining after Chaminade-Madonna had forced a running clock with 7 minutes left in the contest.

“We’re blessed to be in this situation,” Chaminade-Madonna coach Dameon Jones said. “We are in a familiar place, but we have to finish the mission.”

Chaminade-Madonna football coach Dameon Jones talks to his team following a 35-6 victory over Trinity Christian Academy in the Class 1A state semifinal on Friday night to advance to a state-record ninth consecutive state championship game. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (Gary Curreri/Contributor)

At the conclusion of the game, he brought his team to the west end zone and asked the players who had won a state championship ring to stand up. About half of the team did, and Jones pointed out his underclassmen. He told those still kneeling they needed to “finish the job.”

“I’ve done that in the past,” he said of the point made. “I just don’t want them to take it for granted. It may be something they have gotten used to, but everybody doesn’t get this opportunity all of the time.

“I think he is the best receiver down here, especially in this class,” Jones said of Lopez. “He’s been doing stuff like that all year long. I’ve been really impressed with him. He’s a great kid and a special talent.”

Chaminade seized a 7–0 lead with 1:25 remaining in the first quarter on a 28-yard scoring toss from Chance to Lopez, which capped a nine-play, 70-yard drive. The host Lions extended lead to 14-0 when Chance threw his second touchdown pass of the first half, this time going to Denarius Gray from 13 yards out. Kritza threw a 23-yard TD to Washington and connected on a 64-yard catch and run by Cooper, both in the third quarter, while Lopez hauled in his second TD of the night with 7:09 left to ice the game and force the running clock.

The victory may have been costly for the Lions, however, as they lost senior cornerback and UM signee Chris Ewald to a leg injury with 11:01 left in the third quarter. He was taken to an area hospital.

Chaminade-Madonna junior Derrek Cooper scores on a 64-yard catch and run in the Lions’ 35-6 victory over Trinity Christian Academy in the Class 1A state semifinal on Friday night to advance to a state-record ninth consecutive state championship game. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (Gary Curreri/Contributor)

General Daily Insight for December 07, 2024

Today, life is a conveyor belt, serving you one thing after another! Venus dances into free-thinking Aquarius at 1:13 am EST, bringing a more communal spirit to the world. Right after this, Venus will conjoin Pluto, intensifying our daily interactions, while the Sun in Sagittarius will oppose excitable Jupiter, making just about anything seem possible. Finally, mystical Neptune will turn direct in Pisces, bringing a sense of wonder and magic in its wake. Productivity may not be highlighted, but enjoying ourselves certainly is.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

It’s all about who you know. Pleasure-loving Venus is leaving your career sector behind for your 11th House of Global Groups, making it a wonderful time to meet and greet as many people as possible. Venus brings bounty in its wake, so these connections could be quite profitable or rewarding. That said, make an effort to avoid treating people like dollar signs. Let open kindness guide your actions over the course of this transit! That way, friendships begun now can become friendships for life.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Reaching the finish line shouldn’t be all sweat and toil. Today, you get the chance to skate through life more gracefully as your ruler Venus leaps into your 10th House of Professional Reputation to polish your overall vibe. Venus can encourage VIPs to look upon you more kindly and be willing to reward you for previous work. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to make any specific career moves, Venus is here to guide you through making them as elegantly as possible.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Reaching the finish line shouldn’t be all sweat and toil. Today, you get the chance to skate through life more gracefully as your ruler Venus leaps into your 10th House of Professional Reputation to polish your overall vibe. Venus can encourage VIPs to look upon you more kindly and be willing to reward you for previous work. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to make any specific career moves, Venus is here to guide you through making them as elegantly as possible.
Add a bit more spice to your life, Gemini. Aesthetic Venus is winging its way into your 9th House of Flight, encouraging you to look beyond your typical surroundings for satisfaction and pleasure. Treat your senses to a bright and unique experience, whether it’s a foreign film, a cuisine you’ve never tried, or even a day at the museum, taking in all the beauty on offer. What you discover could wind up becoming a new favorite or passion, so don’t hold back.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

You likely have more support than you realize. Venus is entering your 8th House of Joint Resources, bringing some ease and flow to important financial matters as well as easing your more intimate connections. Venus wants to bless you with bliss whenever possible, so this can be a great time to apply for a loan or a line of credit. Perhaps you can get repaid for helping someone else out in the past. Don’t be shy about asking for what you need.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

You can be proud of your pride, Leo! Thanks to Venus moving into your 7th House of Liaisons, all kinds of social connections will be highlighted for you over the next few weeks. Networking could be more enjoyable and more profitable. This can benefit romantic links, but it can also positively impact friendships or business alliances. Whatever you’re looking for, you can use the influence of Venus to your benefit — just be sure to do so in tandem with someone else.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

There’s no need to break a sweat. You can actually coast along more easily than usual as pleasure-loving Venus enters your 6th House of Routines, taking off the pressure and encouraging you to relax wherever you’ve been burning the candle at both ends. Focus on your health as much as possible, making sure to get plenty of rest and eating quality food that will nurture your body, rather than just filling you up. Being your best self shouldn’t require a headache or backbreaking work.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

You have every reason to enjoy yourself today, Libra. Your ruler Venus is dancing into your 5th House of Entertainment, giving you free rein to do as you please and leave your less-exciting work for another time. This sector is all about your personal pleasure, so you can cut out all the excess noise in favor of getting clear on what it is that you want. This is also very artistic territory, so don’t be shy about letting your spark out to play.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Get cozy and comfortable, Scorpio. Aesthetic Venus is moving into your domestic sector for the next few weeks, allowing you the chance to spruce up your space with a few pleasing touches, perhaps with a fresh coat of paint or a couple fancy throw pillows. Since Venus wants you to enjoy yourself, don’t hesitate to invite folks out for a few get-togethers at yours! Your pals will likely be more than willing to come and enjoy your warmth and hospitality.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Pleasure is waiting right outside your front door. Fun-loving Venus is bounding into your 3rd House of Social Activity — it’s like the universe is standing outside your window with a boombox, calling for you to join the cosmic party! Venus wants to create fresh ways for you to enjoy yourself, so hit the town and start painting it whatever color you like. Whether or not things go according to plan, you can have all sorts of fun and meet exciting people in the process.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Make it rain, Capricorn! Venus is moving into your 2nd House of Material Comfort. Since Venus is quite comfortable in this zone, it will be doing its best to share that comfort with you over the next few weeks. Whether you’re aiming to increase your income or spend your time and money more wisely, Venus is here to light your path forward. You might get a new gig, revise your budget, or find a less pricey way to indulge in a favored pastime.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

All eyes are on you, Aquarius. You’ve just become the most alluring sign of the zodiac as beautifying Venus arrives in your 1st House of the Self, giving you an extra special shine that people will have a hard time missing. This is wonderful if you’ve been thinking about giving yourself a makeover or touching up your look somehow — say, with a modern hairstyle or even some fresh ink, if that’s your jam. There is nothing wrong with treating yourself right now!

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Lean into the fantastical side of life. Venus is sliding into your nebulous 12th house, which can feel like you’ve left reality behind and stepped into your dreams for a while. This transit can make it very easy to put on a pair of rose-colored glasses, which is fine in theory. Even so, be careful that those glasses don’t blind you to any red flags, as you’ll want to see the best in everyone and everything. A grain of salt certainly can’t hurt.

State semifinals

6A

West Boca Raton 14, Miami Southridge 11

5A

St. Thomas Aquinas 16, Bradenton Manatee 13

4A

American Heritage 38, St. Augustine 28

1A

Clearwater Central Catholic 22, Cardinal Newman 21

Chaminade-Madonna 35, Jacksonville Trinity Christian 6

State championship games

At Pitbull Stadium, FIU, Miami

Wednesday

1A

Chaminade-Madonna vs. Clearwater Central Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday

5A

St. Thomas Aquinas vs. Niceville-Lakeland winner, 7:30

Friday, Dec. 13

6A

West Boca Raton vs. Osceola, 12:30

4A

American Heritage vs. Orlando Jones, 7:30

Rodarion Tellez (16) leads the way for teammate Gregory Thomas (2) who intercepted a pass late in the game and returned it for a touchdown to secure the win over St. Augustine in the 4A state semifinal football game. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The Connecticut Appellate Court on Friday affirmed a $965 million verdict from 2022 against conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, determining there’s “sufficient evidence” to support the damages awarded to relatives of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre victims and an FBI agent.

In its unanimous opinion, the court cited the “traumatic threats and harassment” the families endured “stemming from the lies, as propagated by the defendants, that the Sandy Hook massacre was a hoax.”

“Our review of the record reveals that there was sufficient evidence to support the $965,000,000 in compensatory damages awarded by the jury,” according to the 62-page decision. It marks the largest jury verdict in Connecticut history.

The appellate court did grant Jones a $150 million reprieve. It determined the plaintiffs “failed to assert a legally viable” claim under the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act and that $150 million in punitive damages awarded by the lower court must be vacated, noting the plaintiffs alleged injury came from false language and not from speech related to advertising, marketing or the sale of goods.

An email was sent seeking comment from Jones’ attorney.

Jones now owes a total of roughly $1.2 billion, counting the $965 million to the Connecticut families and nearly $50 million awarded by a Texas jury to the parents of a Sandy Hook child who was killed.

Related Articles

• National News | USDA orders nationwide testing of milk for bird flu to halt the virus
• National News | More than a million oven gloves are being recalled after consumers report 92 minor burns
• National News | Here’s where police are being investigated for excessive force, discrimination and other allegations
• National News | Crews recover the body of a woman from a Pennsylvania sinkhole after a 4-day search
• National News | Father of victim in NYC subway chokehold case sues defendant Daniel Penny

Jones filed for personal bankruptcy in 2022, and the sale of his Infowars platform is part of that case. A bid by The Onion satirical news outlet to buy Infowars is scheduled to return Monday to a Texas courtroom, where a judge will be deciding whether a bankruptcy auction was properly run. Jones alleges collusion and fraud.

Lawyers for the Sandy Hook families hailed the Connecticut appellate court’s ruling on Friday as an overall victory. Jones can appeal the decision to the Connecticut State Supreme Court.

“Today, Alex Jones’s effort to overturn the jury’s historic verdict against him and his corrupt business, Infowars, was unanimously rejected by the Connecticut Appellate Court. The jury’s $965 million rebuke of Jones will stand, and the families who have fought valiantly for years have brought Alex Jones yet another step closer to true justice,” the lawyers said in a statement.

Jones repeatedly told his millions of followers the 2012 massacre that killed 20 first graders and six educators was staged by “crisis actors” to enact more gun control.

The appellate court also determined that a lower court “properly exercised its discretion” in finding Jones and his Infowars’ parent company Free Speech Systems LLC., liable for damages by default for failing to cooperate with court rules on sharing evidence.

By TIM REYNOLDS

BOCA RATON — When Zach Kittley was initially meeting with Florida Atlantic President Stacy Volnick, he described himself as having a laid-back personality.

Volnick suspects otherwise. That’s why Kittley is the new coach of the Owls.

FAU introduced Kittley on Friday, four days after he took the job and assumed the task of rebuilding a program that reached great heights under Lane Kiffin — two 11-win seasons in a three-year span — and has largely sputtered in the five years since.

“When I met Zach, I knew he would be a good fit to the culture that we have created here,” Volnick said. “During our first conversation, he described himself as ‘a chill person.’ Zach, this is our first disagreement. … You are a type-A-quadruple-plus personality. You are anything but chill. You are driven. You are focused on details. You value character and you know what you want to build here.”

The Owls gave Kittley a five-year contract in order to rebuild the program, which finished 3-9 this season and 1-7 in the American Athletic Conference. He was the top target throughout the search, FAU athletic director Brian White said.

“He’s won at every level,” White said. “And he’s been a difference-maker at every level.”

Kittley was Texas Tech’s offensive coordinator for the last three seasons. Even though he’s only 33, he can say that he was involved with Super Bowl champion quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ development at Texas Tech before he moved on to the Kansas City Chiefs and became one of the biggest stars in football.

“I took this job because of the players,” Kittley said. “I spent the last three days meeting with our current roster … and I can tell you I am 100% in the right place to lead these young men.”

Kittley is replacing Tom Herman, who was fired two weeks ago with two games left in his second year at the school. Kittley had stints as offensive coordinator at Houston Baptist and Western Kentucky before returning to Texas Tech — his alma mater — in 2022 in the same role. The Red Raiders averaged 435 yards per game over the last three seasons under Kittley, 22nd best among all FBS teams.

“I’m about to bring an exciting offense back to FAU,” Kittley said. “We’re going to light up the scoreboard.”

This season saw the Red Raiders rank among the nation’s best offenses: They were eighth in yards per play, eighth in points per game and 10th in yards per game.

“I took this job because I want to be here,” Kittley said. “I’m honored to be your head football coach because I know that we’re going to build a program here and we’re going to go win AAC championships. Florida Atlantic University could not be in a better situation than it is right now; an all-time high in enrollment, climbing the ranks academically across the country and we will continue to carry on that mission during my time here as head football coach.”

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

In yet another quintessential Florida experience, boaters can hit the water for their next run to the grocery store.

They’ll dock their vessels at Publix’s new Hollywood store, right by the Intracoastal Waterway. The store, at 3100 S. Ocean Drive, opens Thursday, according to Publix.

“The store also features a seating area inside and benches on the main dock for customers to enjoy their Publix sub or other grab-and-go items,” Publix spokeswoman Lindsey Willis told the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

Related Articles

• Business | This new Publix has a bar for burritos, pasta bowls and freshly baked pizzas. Here’s where.
• Business | West Boca’s supermarket boom: A new Publix will soon join a cluster of other big-name grocers

The sight of a Publix with a dock drew reactions on social media. One person on TikTok marveled at a Publix store with a dock, remarking, “Only in Florida can you pull up your boat to the grocery store, baby! Look at that.” Another person wrote that cruising on the water “just got even better!”

A dock allows boaters to visit Publix’s new Hollywood store, shown on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Another person on Reddit, the message board site, checked to see if a dock-equipped Publix truly exists. “Yeah it is real,” another person replied. Some noted how there are other Publix sites with docks nearby, such as one on Treasure Island, and one in Miami.

The dock-equipped supermarket in Hollywood has been planned for years.

As TransAmerican Development Corp. bought the 1.5-acre vacant lot for the waterfront market, it was intended to be big enough “to try to get as many boats as we can,” the Sun Sentinel reported in 2019.

Publix’s new Hollywood store, shown on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, is equipped with a dock for boaters. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

The city’s mayor welcomed the idea in 2018. “Great amenity for the beach and for Hollywood boaters!” Mayor Josh Levy wrote on Facebook at the time.

The store in Hollywood will be 29,912 square feet. The building has three floors, with the first two serving as the parking garage. It will be one of the most recent openings in South Florida.

Publix also recently announced a new store in Wellington, which has a “Pours” area that features locally roasted coffee; wine, beer and kombucha on tap; acai bowls and smoothies, as well as pizzas baked in-store and pasta bowls and burritos to order.

Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash

Publix’s new Hollywood store, shown on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, will soon open at 3100 S. Ocean Drive, in Hollywood. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Memo to UCF athletics director Terry Mohajir, president Alexander Cartwright and Board of Trustees chairman Alex Martins: Make it happen!

Seal the deal!

Pull the trigger!

Bring back Scott Frost.

Bring him back to UCF.

Just do it.

I don’t know if Scott Frost would be the best coaching hire at UCF.

But I do know this: He’s the right coaching hire at UCF.

Does that make sense?

If not, let me explain before you call me a sentimental old fool who’s trying to turn back the clock on a game that only moves forward.

It’s no secret that Mohajir is undoubtedly finishing his search to identify the right coach to replace Gus Malzhan, and the word is that Frost is among several candidates who has been interviewed for the job.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m not saying UNLV’s Barry Odom, Liberty’s Jamey Chadwell, Tulane’s Jon Sumrall or some other hot Group of 5 head coach or Power 4 coordinator would be a bad hire; I’m just saying that bringing back the beloved Frosty to Orlando would be an emotionally charged homecoming that would reignite the fan base and galvanize the program.

I acknowledge that hiring Frost would be a gamble. After all, he famously flopped and flamed out after he left UCF following the undefeated “national championship” season in 2017 to return to his alma mater at Nebraska. Bringing him back would mean UCF’s last two hires — Malzahn and Frost — would be coaches who got fired from their previous head-coaching jobs.

But Frost is different from Malzahn, who had no previous connections to the program. Even though Frost was at UCF only two years, he is, without question, the most beloved coach in UCF history. And think of the other possibility/probability if he returns. He could hire arguably the most beloved player in UCF history — his former quarterback McKenzie Milton — as the QB coach or offensive coordinator. Milton is now an up-and-coming offensive analyst on former UCF coach Josh Heupel’s staff at playoff-bound Tennessee.

Granted, bringing back Frost would be a nostalgia-fueled leap of faith; a reunion that could be either magic or mayhem. It could be like the highly successful Eagles reunion tour; or it could be like the Smashing Pumpkins getting back together and delivering something that’s more awkward than iconic.

But if you ask me it’s a risk worth taking for a fanbase yearning for a spark; just like it was nine years ago when Frost first came to UCF in late 2015. Back then, the Knights were coming off a nightmarish year in which aging coach George O’Leary resigned in the middle of a winless season. Likewise, UCF is coming off another nightmarish season in which Malzahn was so eager to bail out that he left $12 million of contract buyout money on the table and voluntarily resigned to take a lesser job as an offensive coordinator at FSU.

Make no mistake about it, UCF’s fan base is in a dark place right now and the booster and NIL donations are languishing. The Knights need an instant jolt and a surge of excitement and hope that no other candidate but Frost can provide. If Frost is hired, the buzz around his return would ignite not just the fan base but also reenergize the donor base and fund-raising initiatives, giving the program the immediate momentum it desperately needs.

Frost would not only rekindle the passion of the fans, he would inspire players and former players. He would restore the swagger and identity that UCF fans still associate with their golden era under his leadership. He would offer an emotional storyline of redemption and revival, attract national attention (and some ridicule) and give the Knights an opportunity to reclaim the upward trajectory they once had.

And, quite frankly, Frost also has two other obvious advantages over most of the other coaching candidates: He’s cheap and available. He is an economical option who can ignite enthusiasm without breaking the bank.

Frost is now a low-level offensive analyst working underneath innovative head coach Sean McVay with the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams. When he left UCF before, he was the hottest coaching candidate in college football who snubbed the Florida Gators before taking the Nebraska job.

But now he is an off-the-radar coach whose star power has dimmed to a point where he is not being mentioned for any of the other coaching vacancies except UCF. The Knights can get him for a fraction of what the more in-demand candidates would cost. Frost would not command a $4 or $5 million-a-year salary and huge buyout clause.

This is the sort of value UCF needs as the program navigates the new financial demands of competing in the Big 12 and soon having to directly pay players from the athletic department’s own coffers. UCF could use the money it saves on the hiring of Frost to invest in talent acquisition. In other words, hiring Frost wouldn’t just be a sentimental decision; it would be a cost-effective one with the potential of a massive return on investment.

A cheap hire that reignites ticket sales while increasing merchandise revenue and booster donations? Sounds like a win-win scenario for a program in need of a complete rebuild and attitude adjustment.

There are so many reasons this all makes sense.

Football.

Finances.

Faith.

Faith that the program can rise again under the man who once took it to unprecedented heights.

Faith that the magic is still there, waiting to be uncovered and rediscovered.

Faith that he can revive, rebuild and redeem both himself and UCF.

Make it happen!

Seal the deal!

Pull the trigger!

Bring back Frosty!

Email me at mbianchi@orlandosentinel.com. Hit me up on X (formerly Twitter) @BianchiWrites and listen to my Open Mike radio show every weekday from 6 to 9:30 a.m. on FM 96.9, AM 740 and 969TheGame.com/listen

 

 

 

 

A woman who died after being pulled from a fire at a Plantation home Thursday has been identified as a local doctor.

Plantation Police confirmed the woman is Karen Ruthman, 60. She ran a boutique family medicine practice in Weston, according to patients and the practice’s website. A woman who answered the practice’s number Friday declined to speak, citing the active investigation.

About 3:45 a.m. Thursday, Plantation Fire Rescue had responded to a “very serious fire” at a home on Northwest 23rd street in Plantation Acres, according to Fire Rescue Lt. Aston Bright.

A mansion along the block, worth about $2 million, is listed under Ruthman’s name, property appraiser records show. Crews rescued Ruthman from inside and transported her to the hospital, but she was later pronounced dead.

Nelson Guifarro, 59, said he and his wife had been going to Ruthman since 2008. He said she was the “best doctor I ever had in my life,” always responding to him and refilling prescriptions when he needed them. Guifarro had served in active duty in the military, and works at a local veterans hospital, but said he often preferred her care over the care there.

“She was just so amazing, so caring,” he said Friday. “Every time I needed her, she was there.”

Guifarro’s wife had an appointment scheduled with Ruthman on Thursday, the same day of the fire. The office called, saying they needed to cancel, which was a “red flag,” he said, because Ruthman never canceled. When they called back later, they found out from her assistant that she had died.

“We are just devastated,” Guifarro said. “It’s going to take us a while to get over it.”

The cause of the fire remains unknown. Both Plantation Police and the State Fire Marshal are investigating.

Ruthman was the only occupant of the house at the time, he said.

Calls to Ruthman’s family members were not returned Friday.

I am a high school teacher in Broward County. Some of my students have parents who crossed the border. Under the new administration’s proposed program of mass deportation, some of my students will no longer be in my classroom.

Until then, I am teaching criminals. I speak with criminals when I call home to report on their teenager’s progress. I am helping criminals become better able to take advantage of our system. So I am an accomplice to their crime or their parents’ crime of entering this country illegally.

I also help these people gain skills that will allow them to continue to live illegally in our system.  I look forward to the midterm elections in 2026.

Steve McCrea, Fort Lauderdale

Deportation and inflation

I agree that all American workers deserve a decent wage. However, the reality is that at the current wages offered by American businesses for agricultural, construction and landscaping work, many workers are not interested in doing this arduous labor. So these jobs fall to undocumented workers who will work for the low wages offered.

What do you think would happen if agricultural wages rose high enough to attract white workers to these jobs? I’m sure you agree that prices would go up and without a doubt, businesses would pass on any increased costs to consumers.

So if President-elect Trump goes ahead with his mass deportation program, you can forget about prices of eggs and other products coming down. They will most assuredly go up unless Trump persuades his business friends to voluntarily absorb higher labor costs (doubtful) or Congress enacts federal price controls (doubly doubtful). We need to brace ourselves for another round of inflation — and this time we can’t blame it on Democrats.

Michael Simon, Boynton Beach

Why Harris lost the election

For some unknown reason, the Editorial Board still continues to gaslight its readers into believing that Trump barely won the election, even though he won in at least 85% of all counties in the U.S. and all seven battleground states.

The board said Trump won because he had the support of billionaires while not mentioning that Kamala Harris had more millionaires and billionaires and spent three times what Trump spent and still lost, and remains in debt. So much for the person who would watch over other people’s money.

The Editorial Board tells us that Trump won because he and his people were better at marketing Trump than Harris and her people were. While I fully agree with that, it was not the main reason Harris lost. She lost because of two issues the editors never mentioned: the economy and immigration.

Harris lost because as much as she pretended to be a new candidate, most voters knew she was the incumbent. As the second highest position in government for almost four years, she has to be blamed for everything that happened.

Mark Goldstein, Boca Raton

Defining a fetus

In response to Mary Cocquyt’s recent letter, I would like to express the view that a fetus is not a baby. Check the dictionary definition.

People who express the view that an abortion is killing a baby are fueling a total misconception. Until the fetus can survive on its own, it is part of the mother. Killing a baby is murder, I agree, but aborting a fetus is not. Life is filled with choices. I for one would never tell a person what is best for them.

Charles Terban, Hollywood

You can submit a letter to the editor by email to letterstotheeditor@sunsentinel.com or by filling out the form below. Letters can be up to 200 words and must be signed with your email address, city of residence and daytime phone number for verification. Letters are subject to editing for clarity and length. 

[contact-form]

Today is Friday, Dec. 6, the 341st day of 2024. There are 25 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Dec. 6, 1998, in Venezuela, former Lt. Col. Hugo Chavez (OO’-goh CHAH’-vez), who had staged a bloody coup attempt against the government six years earlier, was elected president.

Also on this date:

In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, abolishing slavery, was ratified as Georgia became the 27th state to endorse it.

Related Articles

• National News | ‘Sharks’ vet pitches from entrepreneurs at FAU. See who scored a deal
• National News | Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield reverses decision to put a time limit on anesthesia
• National News | The next census will gather more racial, ethnic information
• National News | As data centers proliferate, conflict with local communities follows
• National News | NASA’s stuck astronauts hit 6 months in space. Just 2 more to go

In 1907, the worst mining disaster in U.S. history occurred as at least 361 men and boys died in a coal mine explosion in Monongah, West Virginia.

In 1917, more than 1,700 people were killed when an explosives-laden French cargo ship, the Mont Blanc, collided with the Norwegian vessel Imo at the harbor in Halifax, Nova Scotia, setting off a blast that devastated the Canadian city.

In 1923, a presidential address was broadcast on radio for the first time as Calvin Coolidge spoke to a joint session of Congress.

In 1957, America’s first attempt at putting a satellite into orbit failed as Vanguard TV3 rose about four feet off a Cape Canaveral launch pad before crashing down and exploding.

In 1969, a free concert by The Rolling Stones at the Altamont Speedway in Alameda County, California, was marred by the deaths of four people, including one who was stabbed by a member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club that was hired to provide concert security.

In 1973, House Minority Leader Gerald R. Ford was sworn in as vice president, succeeding Spiro T. Agnew.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Actor JoBeth Williams is 76.
• Craigslist founder Craig Newmark is 72.
• Actor Tom Hulce is 71.
• Comedian Steven Wright is 69.
• Rock musician Peter Buck (R.E.M.) is 68.
• Animator Nick Park is 66.
• Actor Janine Turner is 62.
• Writer-director Judd Apatow is 57.
• Actor Sarah Rafferty is 52.
• NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH’-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON’-poh) is 30.

WEST PALM BEACH — Cardinal Newman had its season come to an end in heartbreaking fashion as they fell short of reaching the state championship on Thursday night. Clearwater Central Catholic senior Keo Jenkins rushed for a touchdown in overtime and then also scored on a game-winning two-point conversion to lift the visiting Marauders to a 22-21 victory in a Class 1A state semifinal.

“These kids fought hard tonight,” Cardinal Newman coach Jack Daniels said. “At the end of the day, we got to do a better job coaching. I’ll put it on our staff to not get the win tonight. Obviously, Clearwater is a good team. I just feel we let them down.”

Cardinal Newman (10-2) suffered its first home loss of the season.  The Crusaders had scored a combined 120 points in their three previous wins in the playoffs.

Cardinal Newman led 7-0 at the end of the first quarter. The teams were locked in a 7-7 tie at halftime and at 14-14 entering the fourth quarter.

Cardinal Newman had the first possession in overtime. Junior quarterback Jyron Hughley rushed for a 7-yard score to give the Crusaders a 21-14 advantage.

Jenkins scored on a 4-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 21-20. The Marauders (12-2) called timeout and elected to go for a two-point conversion attempt. Jenkins took a handoff and went into the end zone, but the Crusaders had called a timeout just before the play. The Marauders once again called on Jenkins, who powered his way into the end zone for the conversion.

“We knew they were going to come out in their heavy package and we just didn’t stop it,” Daniels said. “It’s a fullback dive and it’s the simplest play in football. They got a big O-line and big strong kid running the ball. We were obviously down a couple of players, but we got to stop it there.”

Cardinal Newman scored on their first possession as Hughley connected with junior wide receiver Zamarri Sanders for a 33-yard touchdown to make it 7-0 with 10:33 left in the first quarter.

Senior running back Nasir Hutchinson had a 31-yard touchdown run to tie the game with 7:31 left in the second quarter.

The Marauders missed a 34-yard field goal attempt with 10 seconds left in the first half.

Senior quarterback Jershaun Newton had a 55-yard touchdown run to give the Marauders a 14-7 lead with 10:28 left in the third quarter.

Newton left the game in the third quarter with a knee injury and did not return. Sophomore Khayse Barrett stepped in at quarterback for the remainder of the contest.

The Crusaders answered back on the ensuing possession. Senior running back Jaylin Brown, a Pittsburgh signee, rushed for a 56-yard gain to the Marauders 24-yard line. Brown had a 3-yard touchdown run to tie the game with 7:15 remaining in the third.

Cardinal Newman senior Ryan Coby was carted off the field with a leg injury on a defensive play in the third quarter.

The Crusaders failed to convert on fourth-and-3 at the Marauders 47 on the first play of the fourth quarter.

The Marauders had an incomplete pass on fourth-and-6 at the Crusaders 25 with 3:52 left.

The Marauders had fourth-and-2 at the Crusaders 27 on their next possession, but Cardinal Newman senior Brennan King stepped up with a tackle for a loss with 28 seconds left.

The Crusaders reached the Marauders 42,  but Hughley was sacked on the final play of regulation.

Daniels reflected on his senior class after the loss.

“It’s what you pray for you can do as a coach is make them great people of character and make them be a positive difference in people’s lives and that’s what these kids are,” Daniels said.

General Daily Insight for December 06, 2024

Our energy is turning inward. The Moon in Aquarius begins the day by trining excitable Jupiter, making anything seem possible. Things shift, however, when warrior Mars turns retrograde in Leo at 6:33 pm EST. This takes our desires for expression and excitement and mirrors them right back at us. The Moon will encourage a bit of rebellion when it squares change-maker Uranus, though we’ll need to get serious when mental Mercury squares stoic Saturn, putting a premium on playing by the rules.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

The spotlight feels more like a glare today. Mars is turning retrograde for the next two months. It’s beginning that cycle in your 5th House of Fame, which could push you to spiral out in the most public of settings. Instead of seeking center stage, you’ll find more success working behind the scenes and refining your craft for the moment. Avoid putting it all on display as much as possible. Save yourself from any faux pas by keeping your cards close to your chest.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

It’s anything but calm and quiet under your roof. An uncomfortable energy is bubbling up as Mars turns retrograde in your 4th House of Home and Family for the next couple of months, making it easier for tempers to flare and cabin fever to set in. At times you may feel like you don’t have enough personal space or as though your closest connections aren’t being sensitive to your needs, so set boundaries accordingly. A dose of diplomacy is more important than ever.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

The hamster wheel of life is turning in a different direction. Red-hot Mars is shifting into retrograde motion in your 3rd House of Neighborhoods, making it feel like you’ve hopped on a merry-go-round which you have no control over. Your loved ones and acquaintances may ask a lot of you during this cycle, but it may not be for good or productive reasons, leaving your social battery seriously depleted. Since this sector also rules communication, expect interactions to be fraught with unusual tension. Watch out!

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Keep your wallet shut as tightly as possible. Mars is entering a tough retrograde phase for the next couple of months. This phase begins in your 2nd House of Income, putting extra focus on your money and how you make it. Mars can create lots of things for you to throw your money at, but they may not prove as useful or satisfying as you would like. Avoid tossing cash around if you don’t have to. Contribute that money to a rainy-day fund instead.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

One step at a time, Leo. There is absolutely no need to rush into anything as action planet Mars turns retrograde in your lively sign, making it more important than ever to conserve your energy. This can make it difficult to gauge your behavior and ambitions, so be careful about putting yourself out there. What seems like a good idea one minute may not seem half as appealing the next. There is nothing wrong with taking things slowly for the time being.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Things may suddenly feel off without any obvious reason why. This sensation is quite likely to occur as energetic Mars turns retrograde in your subconscious sector, stirring up vibrations in a way that isn’t easy for you to handle. You may experience more sleepless nights or anxiety than usual, since with Mars moving backward, it won’t be easy to reach a place of rest and relaxation. Issues you thought were healed forever may present themselves for a second go-around. Expect déjà vu.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Working together is wonderful when it works, but not so much when it doesn’t. Unfortunately, any sense of comradery or group spirit might be hard to muster as aggressive Mars spins retrograde in your 11th House of Social Networks. People may be unwilling to cooperate, or perhaps the peers you normally surround yourself with aren’t nearly as helpful or supportive as you would like. You may need to fly solo until the skies clear, but that’s better than twisting people’s arms to get results.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

The finish line may seemingly get farther away the farther you go. This unsettling trend is thanks to Mars turning retrograde in your career sector, making progress more difficult than it should be. You may have to deal with excessive red tape or complications at the office, or perhaps your boss is less helpful than you would like, leaving you to carry their burden. Pushing your way forward can easily backfire, so remember that sitting still is better than going backward.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Just because the world calls your name doesn’t mean you need to answer. It’s more important than ever to move carefully through life as hot-headed Mars turns retrograde in your boundless 9th house, making it all too easy to trip over yourself in your search for expansion. What looks like an exciting adventure could transform into an exhausting headache, so don’t leap at the first opportunity that makes itself known. Step cautiously through the world and hold off on the wild rides for now.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

This is no day to play fast and loose. Quite the contrary! Since Mars turns retrograde in your 8th House of Intimate Sharing, you’ll have to have your game face on as you handle complications and conflict involving major finances or your most important bonds. Avoid asking for favors or taking out loans, as the terms will likely not be in your favor, and be careful about how you deal with partners of all kinds. Everyone could be expecting wildly different results.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Prepare yourself for some friction. A combustion engine drives today forward, fueling your relationships with volatility as Mars turns retrograde in your 7th House of Close Connections. When it’s moving forward, Mars can support your efforts to fortify your bonds. Contrastingly, when it’s asleep at the wheel like this, there’s a much higher risk of arguments and conflict. A person you usually rely on could prove anything but cooperative, so the less you expect from others, the better off you’ll be.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Don’t push yourself harder than necessary. The universe is encouraging you to go easy on yourself as energizer Mars turns retrograde in your 6th House of Wellness, signaling a time when you’re more prone to burnout or getting overwhelmed. Take particular care when it comes to analyzing your energy levels. Be gentle with yourself and take things easy in your daily life, including your workout regime. There’s no point in running faster than ever before if you pull a muscle in the process!

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Sam Reinhart scored the go-ahead power-play goal with 1:59 left in the game to help the Florida Panthers overcome a blown three-goal lead and beat the Philadelphia Flyers 7-5 on Thursday night.

Matthew Tkachuk added an empty-netter in the final seconds to seal the win. Tkachuk also had four assists for his fourth career five-point game, tying his dad, Keith Tkachuk, for the sixth-most in NHL history.

The Flyers got rolling when Owen Tippett scored consecutive goals and Garnet Hathaway pounced on a rebound in the crease to give them a 5-4 lead. Gustav Forsling tied the game at 5 with just over five minutes left after the Panthers wasted 3-0 and 4-2 leads.

Evan Rodrigues and Niko Mikkola scored in the first period, and Aleksander Barkov scored a power-play goal three minutes into the second for the 3-0 lead.

Flyers coach John Tortorella pulled goalie Ivan Fedotov after he gave up two goals on seven shots in the first and replaced him with Aleksei Kolosov. Kolosov saved 16 of the 20 shots he faced.

Tyson Foerster and Nick Seeler cut the lead to 3-2 in the second, but Carter Verhaeghe answered for Florida and made it 4-2.

Flyers rookie Matvei Michkov had three assists in his first career three-point game.

Takeaways

Panthers: Florida rebounded from a loss at Pittsburgh to win for the fourth time in five games.

Flyers: Philadelphia snapped a three-game winning streak.

Key moment

Tippett was off to a slow start for the Flyers this season until he scored twice in 23 seconds in the final moments of the second period and tied the game at 4. Michkov set up Tippett with an assist. His 22 points lead all NHL rookies.

Up next

The Panthers host the Sharks on Saturday, and the Flyers play the Bruins also on Saturday.

___

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

Three weeks ago, the Gators’ 2025 recruiting class was barely inside the top 50 and circling the drain. But since upsetting LSU, the Gators have flipped the script along with a dozen recruits verbally committed to other schools. By National Signing Day, the Gators had risen to No. 11,  and even briefly entered the top 10. Billy Napier credited UF AD Scott Stricklin’s vote of confidence followed by a three-game winning streak convincing prospects who were on the fence to take a leap of faith. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down Napier’s fourth class at Florida.

• Signing day: Athletes take leap of faith (:00)
• Legacy guys (2:03)
• Impact player (5:12)
• ‘He’s going to be a monster’ (10:08)
• ‘A human forklift’ (13:10)
• Ty Jackson (16:44)
• Big misses (18:16)
• Biggest concern (21:02)
• Napier: A sense of relief (23:33)
• Next step (27:15)
• Final thought (30:26)
• Best of Billy (37:47)
• Jeremy Foley’s Corner (41:00)

Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com

A Broward County woman is accused of fraudulently applying for COVID-19 loans for her medical spa business and using the money to lease a Bentley Bentayga and go shopping at the luxury Bal Harbour Shops in Miami Beach, federal prosecutors said Thursday.

Cassandra Yolanda Clarke, 45, of Miramar, made her initial appearance in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday. She faces charges of wire fraud and money laundering, federal court records show.

Prosecutors allege in the indictment that Clarke submitted “false and fraudulent applications” for two Paycheck Protection Program loans on behalf of her medical spa businesses, Narotique Med Spa LLC and Narotique Beauty Bar Inc., in 2020. She allegedly submitted fraudulent IRS forms for the applications.

Clarke received two PPP loans, one for more than $400,000 for one business and another loan for more than $430,000 for the second, according to the indictment.

In April 2020, Clarke sent an email to someone referred to in the indictment only as “Accomplice 1” with a list of employee names and wages for her business Narotique Beauty Bar. In June, the accomplice emailed back with an IRS form for the Narotique Med Spa LLC business attached, and a PPP loan application was submitted on behalf of Narotique Med Spa in July, the indictment said.

In August, Clarke purchased a cashier’s check for about $18,000 with a memo that said “two and a half months salary,” the indictment alleged. She made two withdrawals in June and July 2020 from bank accounts, for $64,000 and $42,000.

She faces three counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering. Prosecutors said in the news release she faces up to 10 years in prison for the money laundering charges and 20 years for wire fraud. Her arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 20.

The Associated Press reported in 2023 that it was estimated that people stole more than $200 billion from the federal government’s two largest Covid-19 financial relief programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program. Experts and investigators told the AP that there was little government oversight and restrictions early on for applicants as the government needed to quickly disperse the the trillions of dollars in loans.

Three prominent investor-judges from “Shark Tank,” television’s high court of American entrepreneurship, descended on Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton to hear pitches from hopeful local innovators in search of financial backing.

The visiting judges for the so-called “CrocTank” event, sponsored by Noble Capital Markets of Boca Raton, included Canadian venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary, a.k.a “Mr. Wonderful,” FUBU apparel founder Daymond John, and cyber-tech entrepreneur Robert Herjavec, also from Canada. The contest was a wrap-up event of a two-day financial investment conference called NobleCon, which drew some 200 executives from around the country to Boca Raton.

Only one of four competitors chosen from a pool of more than 100 applicants scored a deal at the Wednesday on-stage event, which took place in a student union auditorium on the FAU campus in Boca Raton and drew nearly 2,000 ticketholders. The local competitors were selected, according to the College of Business, from the university’s Adams Center for Entrepreneurship, Tech Runway and the Research Park at FAU.

“I want to assure you what you see on Shark Tank is the real deal,” intoned longtime show announcer Phil Crowley, sporting a Panama hat.  “These guys have no idea what the pitch is going to be. And today is no different. All they know is that all of the entrepreneurs today are from the Noble and Florida Atlantic eco-system. That’s all they know.”

“Whatever they decide today will be subject to due diligence,” he added. “Secondly, and this is a big difference: They can make any offer they’d like without any restrictions they usually have on the show. And yes, if a deal is struck, they will be investing their own money.”

“Are you ready? This is CrocTank!”

From there, “CrocTank” evolved as part lovefest, part tough-love advice peppered with snide remarks. They advised the entrepreneurs about how to develop their markets and make presentations that yield dollars. The trio, mainstays on the ABC-produced show now in its 17th season, closely vetted all of the proposals from the entrepreneurs, some of whom had raised money previously but sought more cash to advance their companies’ growth and development.

FUBU apparel founder Daymond John, cyber-tech giant Robert Herjavec, and venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary participate in the in-person business pitch competition similar to that of their hit TV show “Shark Tank.” Florida Atlantic University hosted CrocTank on Wednesday at the Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) A single winner

Dr. Andria Beal, a scientist and founder of EpiPaws, based at the Research Park at FAU, emerged as the only competitor to come away with money. She cut a deal with O’Leary for $250,000 in exchange for 20% equity in her enterprise, which specializes in genetic testing for pet dogs and cats. She could not be immediately reached for comment after the presentation.

O’Leary appeared influenced by Beal’s ties to the founder of a Miami-based company called Basepaws, in which “Mr. Wonderful” said he had invested previously. That deal, he reported, was among the better deals he has ever reached on “Shark Tank.”

Beal told the panel she works with Basepaws founder Anna Skaya, whose firm uses DNA to ascertain a pet’s age. But she said her company is different in that it gives pet owners a chance to pinpoint whether a pet has a disease. “With Epi Genetics we can tell you here and now you are developing a disease and you need to do something about it,” she said.

O’Leary, though astonished by the $120 sales price of Epi Paws’ test kit, jumped in anyway. “I’ll do the $250,000. I want 20%, and I have no flexibility,” he said.

Tim Sperry makes the pitch for his company Carbon Limit to FUBU apparel founder Daymond John, cyber-tech giant Robert Herjavec, and venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Interesting innovations, but no sale

The sharks took a pass on proposals from the three other participants who all outlined technology-driven businesses.

Carbon Limit, which is based at the Tech Runway, served up a technology that reduces carbon dioxide emissions from concrete in roads and buildings. But the pitch from CEO and founder Tim Sperry was too rich at a $75 million valuation on $1.2 million in sales, and too complex for a buy-in from the three sharks.

“This isn’t just about the money for me, although it is about the money,” Sperry said, drawing laughter from the audience. He noted he had became the father of a daughter six months ago.

“I don’t just  want to leave her a thriving business,” he said. “I also want to leave her a thriving planet. I think we owe that to her generation, her children’s generation and beyond.”

The statement drew a round of applause. But the Sharks were thinking in more practical terms.

“You have to educate the whole world that you have a way to use cement to suck carbon out of the air. That’s a helluva mission,” O’Leary said. “Why would I care about this until the person that is paying you to build a road or build a building says ‘You’ve got to use this guy’s product that sucks carbon out because I care about this.’ Because right now I don’t care about this — because I don’t have to care.”

Herjavec called the pitch interesting, but too complicated.

“I always think I try to sell products or services that are native to the customer,” he said. “So the cement buyer is waking up every day and thinking I need to reduce my costs, I need stronger cement, I have new codes coming up for buildings, especially here in Florida. Those are the things I’m thinking about. I don’t think the average buyer is waking up and saying, ‘Gosh, I just built that road, how do I get carbon credits from it?’ And I think you might be able to convince him, but I think it’s a long road.

“To Kevin’s other point, I don’t think people are walking down the road are saying, ‘Gosh, if this road just sucked carbon I would walk on it.’

“I think you have a marketing challenge,” he added. “It seems like a good product from what you’ve told us. There’s an old Yiddish saying that says, the way it begins is usually the way it ends. And this started complicated and I worry it’s going end complicated.”

Quipped O’Leary: “There’s also a Yiddish saying that says, ‘don’t suck carbon.’”

Sperry said he would throw in “advisory shares” for each panelist.

“You’re a good salesman,” O’Leary said. “I would never give you that ($75 million) valuation on $1.2 million in sales. Congratulations, but that’s insane. That’s nuts. Good for you.”

“Listen, I’m going to anger therapy now, ” O’Leary concluded. “I’m trying to be a nicer Mr. Wonderful. I think this valuation is absolutely, just — no.”

“Tim, it’s not for me,” Herjavec said.

“Yeah, nice guy,” John said when asked for his decision. “The people that are in charge of buying this product, they don’t get rewarded for doing anything like this. They get penalized. I personally believe they are very risk averse.”

Declared Crowley, the announcer: “Three sharks are out.”

Audience members watch as Florida Atlantic University hosts CrocTank, similar to the hit “Shark Tank,” at the Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium on Wednesday. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

 Hemotag from the Research Park offered a device designed to monitor heart attack patients outside hospitals. Founder Kaustubh Kale noted he had received an $11 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

But he was seeking $200,000 in exchange for a mere 1% in equity, an offer that jarred the sharks.

O’Leary countered with $200,000 for 15% equity. But Kale declined despite cries from the audience to accept.

 Auto TQ offered a device designed to supplant the use of tourniquets in medical emergencies. FAU graduate Hannah Herbst and Robert Flippo, an executive at Golden Hour Medical and former CEO and co-founder of Boca Raton-based MobileHelp LLC, noted tourniquets are often mishandled at accident scenes, causing unnecessary blood loss among trauma patients.

But instead of an investment, they requested a $500,000 loan at 12%, a proposition that didn’t fly with the panel.

“We are not the loan tank,” O’Leary said. “There is no scenario in which I would like to give you a loan.”

Better than expected

Overall, the sharks sounded impressed by the quality of the products and ideas pitched to them. Their feedback cheered Andrew Duffell, president of the Research Park, which is home to 20 “mature” companies and 34 second-stage firms that are still scaling up.

“I think that it was unique in every way as it added value to everything we are doing here,” Duffell told the South Florida Sun Sentinel on Thursday. “For us in the Research Park and the TechRunway, it was incredibly validating to hear the Sharks say more than once they thought they were going to get rubbish pitched at them, but (instead) this was the real deal. That was huge for us.

“Then to have four of our companies presenting to them — whether or not they got a deal, that gives them credibility they were good enough to pitch the sharks,” Duffell said. “And the public relations value makes them stand out among their competitors — I couldn’t even venture to guess.”

By DEVNA BOSE

One of the country’s largest health insurers reversed a change in policy Thursday after widespread outcry, saying it would not tie payments in some states to the length of time a patient went under anesthesia.

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield said in a statement that its decision to backpedal resulted from “significant widespread misinformation” about the policy.

“To be clear, it never was and never will be the policy of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to not pay for medically necessary anesthesia services,” the statement said. “The proposed update to the policy was only designed to clarify the appropriateness of anesthesia consistent with well-established clinical guidelines.”

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield would have used “physician work time values,” which is published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as the metric for anesthesia limits; maternity patients and patients under the age of 22 were exempt. But Dr. Jonathan Gal, economics committee chair of the American Society for Anesthesiologists, said it’s unclear how CMS derives those values.

In mid-November, the American Society for Anesthesiologists called on Anthem to “reverse the proposal immediately,” saying in a news release that the policy would have taken effect in February in New York, Connecticut and Missouri. It’s not clear how many states in total would have been affected, as notices also were posted in Virginia and Colorado.

Related Articles

• National News | Today in History: December 6, Hugo Chavez elected president of Venezuela after staging bloody coup attempt
• National News | ‘Sharks’ vet pitches from entrepreneurs at FAU. See who scored a deal
• National News | The next census will gather more racial, ethnic information
• National News | As data centers proliferate, conflict with local communities follows
• National News | NASA’s stuck astronauts hit 6 months in space. Just 2 more to go

People across the country registered their concerns and complaints on social media, and encouraged people in affected states to call their legislators. Some people noted that the policy could prevent patients from getting overcharged.

Gal said the policy change would have been unprecedented, ignored the “nuanced, unpredictable human element” of surgery and was a clear “money grab.”

“It’s incomprehensible how a health insurance company could so blatantly continue to prioritize their profits over safe patient care,” he said. “If Anthem is, in fact, rescinding the policy, we’re delighted that they came to their senses.”

Prior to Anthem’s announcement Thursday, Connecticut comptroller Sean Scanlon said the “concerning” policy wouldn’t affect the state after conversations with the insurance company. And New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in an emailed statement Thursday that her office had also successfully intervened.

The insurance giant’s policy change came one day after the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, another major insurance company, was shot and killed in New York City.

MIAMI GARDENS — Calais Campbell, playing in Miami for the first time in his 17 professional seasons, has become an unofficial spokesperson of sorts in the NFL ranks this year for his alma mater, the University of Miami.

Campbell, the Dolphins’ 38-year-old ageless wonder of a defensive tackle, has opined on the ups and downs of a memorable Hurricanes football season that saw the team start 9-0 but lose two of its last three. On the Thanksgiving night prime-time NBC intros ahead of the loss to the Green Bay Packers, he proclaimed “The U is back!”

Sure enough, Campbell would like a word with the College Football Playoff committee, which left Miami out of the 12-team field in favor of Alabama in its penultimate rankings, with no opportunity to improve its position after being left out of the ACC Championship Game.

“I’ve been having some disagreements with some of my friends that played for other teams, like Alabama,” Campbell started at his locker at Dolphins facilities after Thursday’s practice in preparation for the New York Jets on Sunday, before fellow defensive lineman, Da’Shawn Hand, a Crimson Tide alum, shouted from a handful of lockers over to interrupt him.

Campbell continued: “I think that Miami should be in the playoffs. The team is capable of beating anybody. We can put up points at the highest level. Obviously, the selection committee has a tough job on their hands, because there’s so many teams that feel like they’re worthy. But I don’t see how you can watch Miami and feel like they’re not one of the 12 best teams and have a chance to compete for a national championship. I just don’t see it.”

UM entered its regular season finale at Syracuse 10-1 with a win-and-in scenario for inclusion into the ACC title game. From there, it would’ve essentially guaranteed the Hurricanes a spot in the field, even had it lost SMU with that conference title game spot, which now goes to Clemson.

Related Articles

• Miami Dolphins | Calais Campbell’s sack celebration an ode to Michael Strahan, and he’s hoping to go out on top like Strahan did
• Miami Dolphins | Chris Perkins: Dolphins speak with their feet in ‘My Cause My Cleats’ program

The Hurricanes lost to Syracuse, a second defeat by one possession against a formidable conference foe on the road in the past month after also losing to Georgia Tech on Nov. 9.

“You should’ve won those games, but you lose two games, against teams that are pretty good teams on the road, last second in close ball games,” Campbell noted. “Not like we got dominated, like some teams did.”

He, of course, references Alabama’s third loss of the season two weeks ago, 24-3 to Oklahoma, which was 5-5 entering the contest.

“I guess people say we don’t have any big wins, but you can only beat who’s on the schedule,” Campbell said. “We can’t go and schedule better competition. You just beat who’s in front of you.

“I’m sick to my stomach, but it’s football. At the end of the day, you control what you can control. You win your ball games, you don’t have to worry about it.”

Related Articles

• Miami Dolphins | Calais Campbell’s sack celebration an ode to Michael Strahan, and he’s hoping to go out on top like Strahan did
• Miami Dolphins | Chris Perkins: Dolphins speak with their feet in ‘My Cause My Cleats’ program

After Campbell was done with his media session, the conversation continued with Hand as he walked past him. Hand further boasted how Alabama is in with a week remaining.

“You got dominated by Oklahoma!” Campbell told Hand in a rebuttal.

“Anybody I know who played at Alabama, I’ve been picking a fight with, because I know we should’ve been in before them,” Campbell said.

That would include Hand, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and several other past teammates that were Alabama alumni from Campbell’s extensive NFL playing career.

Campbell was asked if, at some point, records have to matter more in these decisions, with UM out at 10-2 and the Crimson Tide in at 9-3 because they won more games against stiffer SEC competition.

“I think so,” Campbell said. “And I also think the SEC this year is not the same as it was in the past. I don’t know if it’s because of the NIL (name, image and likeness), whatever it is. The parity across all conferences has been way different. I see a lot of SEC teams, early in the year, when they played teams outside of conference and they go into the conference and dominate. I don’t get it. It is what it is.

“They got three losses, and only one of them, I think, is a good loss, in theory, if there is a good loss. Once again, if you win, you don’t have to worry about it. But I do think they overvalued the SEC this year. When the playoffs come, we’ll see what happens, see how it goes.”

The committee’s statement that teams not playing this weekend can’t improve their position against each other indicates UM has no path in the final CFP rankings, but Campbell is still holding out hope.

“Maybe they come (see the) light in one more week and fix their mistake,” he said.

Overall, Campbell appreciates that college football has an expanded playoff that even made it a debate this year for the Hurricanes, a five-time national title program which last played a New Year’s Six bowl game in 2017, last played for a championship in 2002 and last won one in 2001.

“I’m an avid football fan,” he said. “I love football, and I think the playoffs is a great addition, going to 12 teams instead of four. More football, more games that matter, it’s good for the sport, so I’m just happy that we have these conversations. But I do wish Miami was in.”

The Dolphins have two other Hurricanes alumni on the roster, Jaelan Phillips and Braxton Berrios, who are on injured reserve.