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New Mexico is the first state to promise free child care for all families

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 16:56

By MORGAN LEE, Associated Press

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico’s governor is promising universal free child care to families of all income levels.

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Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced her plans this week, saying she wants to leverage a financial windfall from oil and gas production to help more parents by removing the state’s income eligibility limit starting Nov. 1.

Rules for the program are being hashed out and lawmakers still have to approve funding, but New Mexico already is several steps ahead of other states when it comes to subsidizing child care.

The latest initiative expands on previous early childhood education investments by extending access to another 12,000 children and making low-interest loans available to spur construction of new child care centers as demands surge.

Lujan Grisham says it’s life-changing for parents to have free child care, since it means more money can be spent on utilities and groceries.

Gaining traction

Americans overwhelmingly view the cost of child care as a significant issue, but there are deep divisions over what the government’s role should be in addressing it, mainly whether it should foot the costs.

Many states are limited in what they can take on as President Donald Trump’s administration cuts or freezes billions of dollars in education funding.

Lujan Grisham hopes the initiative stirs conversations beyond New Mexico.

“My hope is, as we watch elections take hold around the country, that our congressional candidates are talking about these investments, our gubernatorial candidates are talking about these investments” in child care, the second-term Democrat said.

The concept of free child care is being embraced by lawmakers including Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City, through proposed tax hikes. Oregon’s most populous county ramped up its universal preschool program this year despite funding issues, and enthusiasm for early childhood education spawned the creation last year of a dedicated state agency in Illinois.

Footing the bill

New Mexico in 2020 began diverting surplus government income linked to surging oil and gas production to a trust for early childhood education. The balance is nearing $10 billion, with about $500 million in investment earnings being funneled each year to early childhood education programs.

The child care expansion will draw on those savings, some federal funding and a request that state legislators provide an additional $120 million annually. That’s a 26% increase over current spending of $463 million, Lujan Grisham spokesperson Michael Coleman said.

The Democratic-led Legislature has balked at entitlement programs before, repeatedly rejecting paid family leave requirements for the private sector. Republican lawmakers are concerned that the governor’s latest plan would result in a handout for wealthy families.

New Mexico in 2022 expanded eligibility and waived copayments for child care assistance to families earning as much as four times the federal poverty rate — about $128,000 for a family of four this year.

Paul Gessing, president of the libertarian Rio Grande Foundation in New Mexico, said it’s baffling that a Democratic governor would come to the financial aid of upper-income parents.

“We’re already doing this up to 400% of the poverty level — that’s a pretty decent amount of money to be making,” he said.

By eliminating the income cutoff, state officials aim to improve family financial stability, encourage participation in the economy and better prepare toddlers for school.

Hurdles

To meet increased demand, the Lujan Grisham administration says it will need more than 50 new licensed child care centers, 120 licensed homes that accommodate a dozen children and as many as 1,000 new registered homes that serve four children.

Child care slots already are in short supply across New Mexico. And attendance from low-income families declined as assistance expanded to higher income brackets, according to a review by the Legislature’s budget and accountability office.

There’s also little evidence that New Mexico children are better prepared for school than children in other states. The 2025 survey by the Annie E. Casey Foundation ranked New Mexico’s public education system last among 50 states.

The governor’s plan includes incentives to improve quality — raising hourly base pay for child care workers to at least $18 where excellence is demonstrated.

The universal child care guarantee will cover crucial infant and toddler years before and after children become eligible for public preschool — defraying average annual costs of about $12,000 per year.

Eligibility for child care assistance also will extend to grandparents who are in charge of grandchildren, often because of parents struggling with addiction, with no work requirement.

Associated Press writer Claire Rush contributed from Portland, Ore.

The Associated Press’ women in the workforce and state government coverage receives financial support from Pivotal Ventures. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Appeals court allows Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 16:27

BOSTON (AP) — A U.S. appeals court panel on Thursday allowed President Donald Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood while legal challenges continue.

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A federal judge in July ruled Planned Parenthood clinics nationwide must continue to be reimbursed for Medicaid funding as the nation’s largest abortion provider fights Trump’s administration over efforts to defund the organization in his signature tax legislation.

Medicaid is a government health care program that serves millions of low-income and disabled Americans. Nearly half of Planned Parenthood’s patients rely on Medicaid.

A provision in Trump’s tax bill instructed the federal government to end Medicaid payments for one year to abortion providers that received more than $800,000 from Medicaid in 2023, even to those like Planned Parenthood that also offer medical services like contraception, pregnancy tests and STD testing.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its member organizations in Massachusetts and Utah filed a lawsuit in July against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

“While the Trump administration wants to rip away reproductive freedom, we’re here to say loud and clear: we will not back down,” Dominique Lee, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts said in a statement. “This is not over.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services didn’t immediately respond to an online request for comment.

Planned Parenthood said Thursday’s ruling means that more than 1.1 million patients can’t use their Medicaid insurance at its health centers. That also puts as many as 200 of those health centers at risk of closure, Planned Parenthood said in a statement.

Planned Parenthood says it is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of affordable sexual and reproductive health care, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education.

Humpty Dumpty caper at New Jersey mini-golf course sparks police investigation

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 16:02

CAPE MAY, N.J. (AP) — Humpty Dumpty took a big fall, and now police are hoping to crack the case.

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A playful, colorful statue of the nursery rhyme icon was forcibly removed from a structure at a miniature golf course in Cape May, New Jersey, on Sunday and dumped down the street.

Local police say they’re looking for two men who are seen on video stopping at Ocean Putt Golf at around 4 a.m. Video shows one of them entering the course by climbing over a fence, grabbing and rocking the statue back and forth and pulling it off its foundation before walking off with it.

The statue, showing a smiling Humpty Dumpty with big, white head, red cheeks, a yellow bow tie, a blue jacket and gray pants, was found several properties away. In a nursery rhyme, Humpty Dumpty falls off a wall and all the king’s horses and all the king’s men can’t put him back together again.

A message was left at a phone number listed for Ocean Putt Golf, whose Instagram page shows the statue above one of the course’s holes earlier this year.

Cape May police detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the two men seen in multiple videos posted on the department’s Facebook page.

Belarus frees 52 political prisoners as US lifts some sanctions on its national airline

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 15:48

By YURAS KARMANAU and LIUDAS DAPKUS

VILNIUS, Lithuania (AP) — Belarus freed 52 political prisoners on Thursday as part of a deal brokered by the United States, which lifted some sanctions on the country’s national airline.

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It was another sign of a possible rapprochement between Washington and Minsk, a close ally of Russia that has faced Western isolation for years. U.S. President Donald Trump and Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko spoke on the phone last month, and the American leader even suggested a face-to-face meeting could be in the works.

That would be a big win for Lukashenko, who has ruled his nation of 9.5 million with an iron fist for more than three decades. Belarus has been repeatedly sanctioned by Western countries both for its crackdown on human rights and allowing Moscow to use its territory in the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

But more recently, Lukashenko has sought to mend ties with the West in the hopes of easing the sanctions. He has regularly released prisoners as a way to win favor, including freeing Siarhei Tsikhanouski, a key dissident and the husband of exiled opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, in June.

The concession from the U.S. came a day after Poland denounced an incursion of Russian drones into its territory — saying some came from Belarus — in what Western officials called an act of aggression. NATO jets were scrambled and shot some of the drones down.

Trump, whose country is the major military power in NATO, offered an ambiguous initial response to the incursion, posting on his Truth Social platform: “What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!”

Sanctions on Belavia eased

Trump envoy John Coale announced the lifting of sanctions at a meeting with Lukashenko in Minsk on Thursday.

Some sanctions on Belarus national carrier, Belavia, were relaxed in light of prisoner releases so far, according to a U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss private diplomatic conversations. That will allow the airline to repair and buy parts for its planes, including Boeing aircraft.

The airline was sanctioned by the European Union, the U.S., and others after Belarusian flight controllers ordered a commercial jet traveling from Greece to Lithuania to land in Minsk. Once the plane landed, authorities arrested Raman Pratasevich, a dissident journalist who was on board.

Lukashenko, who has relied on Russia’s loans and cheap energy to keep Belarus’ economy afloat, called the Thursday move “very important.”

Opposition leader Tsikhanouskaya warned that the easing of sanctions could allow Moscow, whose aviation industry is sanctioned, to get airplane parts through Belavia.

“We understand that this is part of the deal,” she told The Associated Press. “But lifting sanctions without systemic changes in the country could open loopholes that both the Lukashenko regime and Russia will use to circumvent the sanctions.”

That could also create new opportunities for Belarus in its relationship with Russia. Minsk will be able to resell the parts to Moscow “at a very favorable price,” said independent analyst Valery Karbalevich, and it makes “the Kremlin’s leash” on Belarus “a little longer.”

One prisoner released refuses to go to Lithuania

One of the prisoners released Thursday, veteran opposition activist Mikalai Statkevich, refused to cross into Lithuania and tried to return to Belarus, but was blocked by the border guards, Anatol Lyabedzka, of Tsikhanouskaya’s team, told AP in a phone interview from a Lithuanian border crossing where the prisoners were handed over.

“He decided not to let Lukashenko kick him out of the country and is resisting a forced deportation,” Lyabedzka said.

Maksim Viniarski, another freed dissident, told AP that Statkevich repeatedly demanded to stop the bus taking him, Viniarski and others to Lithuania and let him out. As the bus entered the no-man’s land between Belarus and Lithuania, “emaciated, yet determined to resist” Statkevich hit an emergency stop button, opened the door and got out. “Statkevich said that he won’t leave the country and that he didn’t need anyone to sell him out,” Viniarski said.

For a while, Statkevich remained in the no-man’s land, but then Belarusian security operatives took him in the direction of the Belarusian border crossing, Lyabedzka said.

Statkevich’s refusal recalled a similar one by Maria Kolesnikova, a key leader in the mass protests that rocked Belarus in 2020. She became a symbol of Belarusian resistance after the authorities tried to deport her in September 2020. Driven to the Ukrainian border, she briefly broke away from security forces, tore up her passport, and walked back into Belarus. She was convicted a year later on charges including conspiracy to seize power and sentenced to 11 years in prison.

The other 51 freed prisoners have crossed into Lithuania, Lyabedzka said.

Show Caption1 of 4FILE – A Belavia plane of Belarus national carrier, lands at the International Airport outside Vilnius, Lithuania on Sunday, May 23, 2021. (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis, File) Expand

Statkevich, one of Lukashenko’s most prominent and charismatic opponents, attempted to run for president in 2010, but was arrested, convicted on charges of organizing mass riots and sentenced to six years. Amnesty International recognized him as a prisoner of conscience, and in 2015 he was released under pressure from the U.S.

Statkevich was arrested again before the 2020 elections, found guilty once more of organizing mass riots, and sentenced to another 14 years. He has been held incommunicado since February 2023.

Also among those released were Ihar Losik, a journalist for U.S. government-funded broadcaster Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, as well other journalists and bloggers, party and union leaders, and 14 foreigners.

Franak Viachorka, Tsikhanouskaya’s senior advisor, told AP that while most of the released Belarusians are in “normal physical and psychological condition,” some need urgent medical care.

Elena Ramanauskienė — a Lithuanian who was detained in Belarus while visiting, convicted of espionage and sentenced to six years — burst into tears after stepping from the bus that brought her and some of the others back, and thanked those who made her release possible.

But some Belarusians viewed their release differently. Larysa Shchyrakova, a 52-year-old journalist who was almost done serving her 3 1/2-year prison term in her hometown of Gomel, said she was “deported.”

“I have no home, no relatives here – nothing,” Shchyrakova told reporters in Vilnius. “My mother died while I was in prison, so now I can’t even go to her grave.”

Almost 1,200 political prisoners remain behind bars in Belarus, according to human rights group Viasna, and Trump has said he wants to win the release of more.

Warming ties?

There have been signs of Trump seeking a thaw with Lukashenko — much as he has with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Soon after hosting Putin for talks in Alaska last month, Trump hinted he was working on a deal to win the release of hundreds of prisoners held in Belarus after holding a “wonderful talk” with Lukashenko.

Trump announced in a social media posting following the call — his first publicized engagement with Belarussian leader during his second term — that the purpose of the conversation was to thank Lukashenko for the June prisoner release.

But the U.S. leader said the two also talked about the potential release of many more being held in Belarus.

Trump also added: “I look forward to meeting President Lukashenko in the future.”

That would be a remarkable turnaround for a leader who has been widely shunned for his relentless repression of the opposition and independent media, especially after tens of thousands of people poured into the streets to protest his reelection in August 2020, in a vote widely seen as rigged.

In the ensuing crackdown, tens of thousands were detained. Prominent opposition figures either fled the country or were imprisoned.

Lukashenko has since extended his rule for a seventh term in another election that the opposition called a farce.

Karmanau reported from Barcelona, Spain. Associated Press writers Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, Katie Marie Davies in Manchester, England, and Aamer Madhani and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed.

Trump draws cheers and boos while marking 9/11 by attending a New York Yankees game

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 15:17

By WILL WEISSERT and STEPHEN WHYNO

NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump attended the New York Yankees game on Thursday night, drawing a mixed reaction while marking the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, after honoring the memories of the victims at the Pentagon earlier in the day.

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Authorities installed security glass outside an upper level suite on the third base side, over the visiting Detroit Tigers dugout, for the president. During the National Anthem, Trump was shown on the stadium jumbotron and received boos from some in the crowd, cheers from others.

Moments earlier, as he first took his seat, the president briefly waved to the crowd and flashed a thumb’s up — but not all fans noticed because there was no announcement he was arriving.

The stadium also briefly played Trump’s unofficial campaign anthem, “God Bless the USA,” but to little reaction. There were chants of “USA! USA! USA!” but they were more related to marking Sept. 11 than Trump’s attending the game.

All that followed Trump stopping by the home team’s clubhouse about 15 minutes before the game. He shook hands with the players and team staff members, and talked about being close for years with late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, calling him “a great friend of mine, the whole family.”

Trump predicted the Yankees would win, noting of his past attending games with Steinbrenner, “We won every time I came.”

President Donald Trump talks with New York Yankees Aaron Judge, right, in the New York Yankees locker room before a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

“You think that was easy sitting with him for a game? It wasn’t. It was brutal. But he won, and you’re going to win,” the president said.

He later added: “You’re going to go all the way, and you’ll get in the playoff — and I think we’ll start off, how about tonight? We’ll start from tonight on, and you’re going to do well.” The Tigers beat the Yankees during the first two games of the series Tuesday and Wednesday by a combined score of 23-3.

Trump said he wanted to “wish you guys a lot of luck. You’re great players, I know, every one of you.” He also recalled that the Yankees’ archrival, the Boston Red Sox, had visited him in the Oval Office earlier this summer and then went on a long winning streak.

Manager Aaron Boone said before Trump’s arrival that Yankees leftfielder Anthony Volpe had quietly been playing with a partial labrum tear in his left shoulder. As he greeted him, Trump patted him softly on the shoulder.

“It’s something that I’m excited to be a part of,” Boone said of Trump being on-hand.

A presidential visit always prompts extra security at sporting events, but things were heightened after conservative activist and close Trump ally Charlie Kirk was assassinated in Utah on Wednesday. When Trump attended the Sept. 11 observance ceremony at the Pentagon earlier Thursday, authorities moved the ceremony inside as an added precaution.

Trump’s attendance recalled President George W. Bush’s ceremonial first pitch 24 years earlier as the Yankees played the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2001 World Series — a moment that came to symbolize national resilience after the attacks mere weeks earlier.

Since the attacks, the Yankees and their fans have marked Sept. 11 during the seventh-inning stretch by singing “God Bless America” in addition to the traditional “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” and they were doing so again Thursday. They also held a moment of silence before the first pitch.

Security at the stadium was tight, with entrance featuring metal detectors and Secret Service agents, some with sniffer dogs, while New York Police Department helicopters thundered overhead.

Stadium authorities opened the gates three hours before the first pitch, and long lines began forming even before that, though most of the crowd appeared to be moving into the stadium smoothly. The Yankees said ticketholders were “strongly urged to arrive as early as possible.”

Fans wait to pass through security screening at Yankee Stadium before a baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

The Secret Service said extra time would likely be needed to enter the game and asked fans to consider leaving their bags at home.

Trump’s attendance at the U.S. Open men’s final in Queens last weekend sparked security lines long enough that some fans didn’t make it to their seats until more than an hour into the match, despite organizers delaying its start by 30 minutes.

The game is Trump’s eighth major sporting event since returning to the White House in January. He attended the Super Bowl in New Orleans, the Daytona 500, UFC fights in Miami and Newark, New Jersey, the NCAA wrestling championships in Philadelphia, the FIFA Club World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and last weekend’s U.S. Open match.

The Yankee Stadium scoreboard featured a large MLB logo over an American flag and a red, white and blue ribbon under the inscription “September 11, 2001, We Shall Not Forget.”

President Donald Trump arrives at Yankee Stadium before a baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

The large American flag behind the left field bleachers and the smaller flags for each of baseball’s 30 teams that ring the stadium’s upper level were lowered to half-staff after Trump issued an executive order honoring Kirk. Before Wednesday’s game, the Yankees held a moment of silence for Kirk and flashed his picture on their stadium’s big screen.

Trump was born in the New York borough of Queens and, though he’s lived in Florida in recent years, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said he “remains a New Yorker at heart.” Still, Trump’s appearances at baseball games haven’t always been welcomed by fans.

During his first term in 2019, Trump tried to make a low-profile appearance as the Washington Nationals hosted the Houston Astros in the World Series, but was booed roundly when shown on the stadium’s big screen. There were even chants of “Lock him up!”

Today in History: September 11, thousands killed in terrorist attack on US

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 01:00

Today is Thursday, Sept. 11, the 254th day of 2025. There are 111 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Sept. 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people were killed as 19 al-Qaida hijackers seized control of four jetliners, sending two of the planes into New York’s World Trade Center, one into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and the fourth into a field in western Pennsylvania. It remains the deadliest terror attack in history.

Also on this date:

In 1789, Alexander Hamilton was appointed the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.

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In 1814, an American fleet scored a decisive victory over the British in the Battle of Lake Champlain in the War of 1812.

In 1936, Boulder Dam — later renamed the Hoover Dam — began operation as President Franklin D. Roosevelt pressed a button in Washington to signal the startup of the dam’s first hydroelectric generator.

In 1941, groundbreaking took place for the Pentagon.

In 1954, the Miss America pageant made its network TV debut on ABC.

In 1973, Chilean President Salvador Allende (ah-YEN’-day) died during a violent military coup led by General Augusto Pinochet.

In 1985, Pete Rose of the Cincinnati Reds broke Ty Cobb’s MLB career hits record with his 4,192nd hit.

In 2008, presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama put aside politics as they visited ground zero together on the anniversary of 9/11 to honor its victims.

In 2012, a mob armed with guns and grenades launched a fiery nightlong attack on a U.S. diplomatic outpost and a CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya, killing U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans.

In 2023, over 4,000 people died and thousands more were missing after heavy rain from Mediterranean Storm Daniel caused two dams to collapse, flooding the city of Derna, Libya.

Today’s Birthdays:
  • Composer Arvo Pärt is 90.
  • Film director Brian De Palma is 85.
  • Singer-actor-dancer Lola Falana is 83.
  • Musician Mickey Hart is 82.
  • Guitarist Leo Kottke is 80.
  • Actor Amy Madigan is 75.
  • Rock musician Tommy Shaw (Styx) is 72.
  • Sportscaster Lesley Visser is 72.
  • Actor Scott Patterson is 67.
  • Actor/director Roxann Dawson is 67.
  • Actor John Hawkes is 66.
  • Actor Virginia Madsen is 64.
  • Musician-composer Moby is 60.
  • Singer Harry Connick Jr. is 58.
  • Actor Taraji (tuh-RAH’-jee) P. Henson is 55.
  • Rapper Ludacris is 48.
  • Football Hall of Famer Ed Reed is 47.
  • Country singer Charles Kelley (Lady A) is 44.
  • Actor Elizabeth Henstridge is 38.
  • Actor Tyler Hoechlin (HEK’-lihn) is 38.

Palm Beach County barely cracks double-digits in alumni playing in NFL

South Florida Local News - Thu, 09/11/2025 - 00:09

Continuing a talent drain that has persisted the past several years, alumni of Palm Beach County high schools took up only 10 spots on NFL rosters in the league’s opening weekend.

Broward had 48 representatives, and Miami-Dade had 33.

Palm Beach has seen a 44% plummet from its 2021 number of 18 NFLers on Week 1.

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The Denver Broncos were the lone team with multiple Palm players (Park Vista’s A.T. Perry and Oxbridge Academy’s Keidron Smith), and American Heritage-Delray was the only school with multiple alumni represented (the Seahawks’ Mike Morris and the Giants’ Devin Singletary).

Palm Beach’s total each of the past five seasons:
2025: 10

2024: 12

2023: 12

2022: 13

2021: 18

Here are this year’s Palm Beach County alumni who either were on the active roster or practice squad or carried a reserve designation (listed in alphabetical order of last name):

Jacoby Brissett, Dwyer, Cardinals

Kaiir Elam, Benjamin, Cowboys

Ashton Gillotte, Boca Raton, Chiefs

Lamar Jackson, Boynton Beach, Ravens

Fred Johnson, Royal Palm Beach, Eagles

Keni-H Lovely, Atlantic, Jaguars

Mike Morris, American Heritage-Delray, Seahawks

A.T. Perry, Park Vista, Broncos

Devin Singletary, American Heritage-Delray, Giants

Keidron Smith, Oxbridge Academy, Broncos

BY SCHOOL

AMERICAN HERITAGE-DELRAY (2): Mike Morris, Seahawks; Devin Singletary, Giants

ATLANTIC (1): Keni-H Lovely, Jaguars

BENJAMIN (1): Kaiir Elam, Cowboys

BOCA RATON (1): Ashton Gillotte, Chiefs

BOYNTON BEACH (1): Lamar Jackson, Ravens

DWYER (1): Jacoby Brissett, Cardinals

OXBRIDGE ACADEMY (1): Keidron Smith, Broncos

PARK VISTA (1): A.T. Perry, Broncos

ROYAL PALM BEACH (1): Fred Johnson, Eagles

BY TEAM

BRONCOS (2): A.T. Perry, Park Vista; Keidron Smith, Oxbridge Academy

CARDINALS (1): Jacoby Brissett, Dwyer

CHIEFS (1): Ashton Gillotte, Boca Raton

COWBOYS (1): Kaiir Elam, Benjamin

EAGLES (1): Fred Johnson, Royal Palm Beach

GIANTS (1): Devin Singletary, American Heritage-Delray

JAGUARS (1): Keni-H Lovely, Atlantic

RAVENS (1): Lamar Jackson, Boynton Beach

SEAHAWKS (1): Mike Morris, American Heritage-Delray

The Bills and Chiefs, with six players each, were the teams most heavily populated by South Floridians, while the Lions and Commanders were the only teams without any representation from Broward, Miami-Dade or Palm Beach counties.

Miami-Dade closes gap on Broward in NFL representation

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 23:43

Miami-Dade County saw its representation of alumni on NFL rosters on Week 1 of the season increase to its highest level in four seasons, clambering to 33 in 2025 and getting within 15 of Broward County and its 48 such players.

Miami-Dade hadn’t seen such opening-weekend representation since its 36 on opening weekend in 2021, the same year Broward weighed in with 62.

Here are the Broward-versus-Miami-Dade totals each of the past five seasons:

2025: 48 Broward, 33 Miami-Dade

2024: 50-28

2023: 48-30

2022: 55-23

2021: 62-36

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Here are this year’s Miami-Dade alumni who either were on the active roster or practice squad or carried a reserve designation (listed in alphabetical order of last name):

Yasir Abdullah, Carol City, Jaguars
Maurice Alexander, Booker T. Washington, Bears
Tutu Atwell, Northwestern, Rams
Tatum Bethune, Central, 49ers
Teddy Bridgewater, Northwestern, Buccaneers
Jarvis Brownlee, Carol City, Titans
Artie Burns, Northwestern, Dolphins
Deon Bush, Columbus, Chiefs
James Cook, Central, Bills
Lavonte David, Northwestern, Buccaneers
Carlton Davis III, Norland, Patriots
Denzel Daxon, Carol City, Cardinals
Frank Gore Jr., Killian, Bills
C.J. Henderson, Columbus, Falcons
Jayden Higgins, Westminster Christian, Texans
D.J. Ivey, South Dade, Bengals
Calijah Kancey, Northwestern, Buccaneers
Kamren Kinchens, Northwestern, Rams
Federico Maranges, Columbus, Seahawks
Jason Marshall Jr., Palmetto, Dolphins
Denzel Perryman, Coral Gables, Chargers
Elijah Roberts, Columbus, Buccaneers
Greg Rousseau, Champagnat, Bills
Brashard Smith, Palmetto, Chiefs
Tyrique Stevenson, Southridge, Bears
Shemar Stewart, Monsignor Pace, Bengals
Leonard Taylor III, Palmetto, Jets
Keir Thomas, Central, Rams
Corey Thornton, Booker T. Washington, Panthers
Tyquan Thornton, Booker T. Washington, Chiefs
Joshua Uche, Columbus, Eagles
Anthony Walker, Monsignor Pace, Colts
LaJohntay Wester, Palmetto, Ravens

BY SCHOOL

NORTHWESTERN (6): Tutu Atwell, Rams; Teddy Bridgewater, Buccaneers; Artie Burns, Dolphins; Lavonte David, Buccaneers; Calijah Kancey, Buccaneers; Kamren Kinchens, Rams

COLUMBUS (5): Deon Bush, Chiefs; C.J. Henderson, Falcons; Federico Maranges, Seahawks; Elijah Roberts, Buccaneers; Joshua Uche, Eagles

PALMETTO (4): Jason Marshall Jr., Dolphins; Brashard Smith, Chiefs; LaJohntay Wester, Ravens; Leonard Taylor III, Jets

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON (3): Maurice Alexander, Bears; Corey Thornton, Panthers; Tyquan Thornton, Chiefs

CAROL CITY (3): Yasir Abdullah, Jaguars; Jarvis Brownlee, Titans; Denzel Daxon, Cardinals

CENTRAL (3): Tatum Bethune, 49ers; James Cook, Bills; Keir Thomas, Rams

MONSIGNOR PACE (2): Shemar Stewart, Bengals; Anthony Walker, Colts

CHAMPAGNAT (1): Greg Rousseau, Bills

CORAL GABLES (1): Denzel Perryman, Chargers

KILLIAN (1): Frank Gore Jr., Bills

NORLAND (1): Carlton Davis III, Patriots

SOUTH DADE (1): D.J. Ivey, Bengals

SOUTHRIDGE (1): Tyrique Stevenson, Bears

WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN (1): Jayden Higgins, Texans

BY TEAM

BUCCANEERS (4): Teddy Bridgewater, Northwestern; Lavonte David, Northwestern; Calijah Kancey, Northwestern; Elijah Roberts, Columbus
BILLS (3): James Cook, Central; Greg Rousseau, Champagnat; Frank Gore Jr., Killian
CHIEFS (3): Deon Bush, Columbus; Brashard Smith, Palmetto; Tyquan Thornton, Booker T. Washington
RAMS (3): Tutu Atwell, Northwestern; Kamren Kinchens, Northwestern; Keir Thomas, Central
BEARS (2): Maurice Alexander, Booker T. Washington; Tyrique Stevenson, Southridge
BENGALS (2): D.J. Ivey, South Dade; Shemar Stewart, Monsignor Pace
DOLPHINS (2): Artie Burns, Northwestern; Jason Marshall Jr., Palmetto
49ERS (1): Tatum Bethune, Central
CARDINALS (1): Denzel Daxon, Carol City
CHARGERS (1): Denzel Perryman, Coral Gables
COLTS (1): Anthony Walker, Monsignor Pace
EAGLES (1): Joshua Uche, Columbus
FALCONS (1): C.J. Henderson, Columbus
JAGUARS (1): Yasir Abdullah, Carol City
JETS (1): Leonard Taylor III, Palmetto
PANTHERS (1): Corey Thornton, Booker T. Washington
PATRIOTS (1): Carlton Davis III, Norland
RAVENS (1): LaJohntay Wester, Palmetto
SEAHAWKS (1): Federico Maranges, Columbus
TEXANS (1): Jayden Higgins, Westminster Christian
TITANS (1): Jarvis Brownlee, Carol City

Teams with no Miami-Dade representation on opening weekend: Broncos, Cowboys, Commanders, Giants, Lions, Packers, Raiders, Saints, Steelers and Vikings.

The Bills and Chiefs, with six players each, were the teams most heavily populated by South Floridians overall, while the Lions and Commanders were the only teams without any representation from Broward, Miami-Dade or Palm Beach counties.

Broward County remains well ahead in putting South Florida high school alumni into NFL

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 22:02

Broward County again led South Florida as the county with the most alumni on NFL rosters on Week 1 of the season, its 48 such players being more than the total from Miami-Dade (33) and Palm Beach (10) counties combined.

Broward has basically held steady the past three seasons, with 48 in 2023 and 50 last year, though Miami-Dade had its largest number since its 36 on opening weekend in 2021, the same year Broward weighed in with 62.

Broward’s total each of the past five seasons:
2025: 48

2024: 50

2023: 48

2022: 55

2021: 62

Here are this year’s Broward alumni who either were on the active roster or practice squad or carried a reserve designation (listed in alphabetical order of last name):

Baltimore Ravens' Devin Leary throws past Green Bay Packers Deslin Alexandre during the second half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Deslin Alexandre, Deerfield Beach, Packers

Keith Srakocic/APLas Vegas Raiders cornerback Damon Arnette warms up before an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 19, 2020, in Pittsburgh.

Damon Arnette, St. Thomas Aquinas, Texans

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. (81) runs a route during an NFL preseason football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)

Kevin Austin Jr., North Broward Prep, Saints

Cincinnati Bengals safety Jordan Battle (27) warms up before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Emilee Chinn)

Jordan Battle, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bengals

Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto tackles Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Seattle. The Seahawks won 26-20. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Nik Bonitto, St. Thomas Aquinas, Broncos

New England Patriots place kicker Andy Borregales (36) kicks a field goal during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Andy Borregales, Chaminade-Madonna, Patriots

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) is pressured by Buffalo Bills defensive end Joey Bosa (97) during the first half of an NFL football game in Orchard Park, N.Y., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Joey Bosa, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bills

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, right, reaches for New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) during the first half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Sept. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Nick Bosa, St. Thomas Aquinas, 49ers

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Hollywood Brown (5) runs against the Buffalo Bills during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Marquise Brown, Chaminade-Madonna, Chiefs

New York Giants linebacker Brian Burns (0) takes the field to face the Minnesota Vikings in an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Brian Burns, American Heritage, Giants

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, right, celebrates with linebacker Devin Bush (30) after sacking Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Devin Bush Jr., Flanagan, Browns
Yodny Cajuste, Miramar, Dolphins

Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Tyson Campbell is seen during a joint practice with the Miami Dolphins on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at the Baptist Health Training Complex in Miami Gardens. Campbell played at American Heritage’s Broward campus. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Tyson Campbell, American Heritage, Jaguars

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Robbie Chosen (3) makes a catch during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Scot Tucker)

Robbie Chosen, South Plantation, 49ers

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts runs with the football against Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus in the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, in Philadelphia. (Yong Kim/The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS)

Brandon Dorlus, Deerfield Beach, Falcons

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Phillip Dorsett (13) warms up before an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug.23, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Phillip Dorsett, St. Thomas Aquinas, Raiders

Dallas Cowboys' Rivaldo Fairweather runs the ball during a preseason NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Rivaldo Fairweather, Boyd Anderson, Cowboys

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park, N.Y., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)

Zay Flowers, University School, Ravens

Steve Luciano/APMiami defensive lineman Jonathan Ford (09) warms up at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis on, March 5.

Jonathan Ford, Dillard, Bears

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Oronde Gadsden II (86) catches a touchdown pass in front of San Francisco 49ers safety Marques Sigle (36) during the first half of an NFL preseason football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Eakin Howard)

Oronde Gadsden II, American Heritage, Chargers

Cleveland Browns cornerback Myles Harden (26) enters the field before an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Myles Harden, Miramar, Browns

Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert (24) runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)

Khalil Herbert, American Heritage, Colts

Dallas Cowboys linebacker James Houston (53) celebrates after he sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Easton Stick (12) during a preseason NFL football game Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Jerome Miron)

James Houston, American Heritage, Cowboys

Tyler Huntley #2 of the Baltimore Ravens warms up prior to a fame against the Miami Dolphins at M&T Bank Stadium on Dec. 31, 2023, in Baltimore, Maryland. (Todd Olszewski/Getty Images/TNS)

Tyler Huntley, Hallandale, Ravens

Chicago Bears linebacker Ruben Hyppolite II (47) lines up during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)

Ruben Hyppolite II, McArthur, Bears

New Orleans Saints cornerback Shemar Jean-Charles (27) defends during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)

Shemar Jean-Charles, Miramar, Seahawks

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) celebrates with fans after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Cleveland. Dallas defeated Cleveland 33-17. (AP Photo/Kirk Irwin)

Jerry Jeudy, Deerfield Beach, Browns

Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Kevin Knowles comes onto the field during warmups before an NFL preseason football game against the Chicago Bears, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. The Bears defeated the Chiefs, 29-27. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)

Kevin Knowles, McArthur, Chiefs

Indianapolis Colts' Chris Lammons celebrates following a preseason NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Chris Lammons, Plantation, Colts

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Keyon Martin (38) celebrates after intercepting a pass and running it back for a touchdown during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Washington Commanders Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Keyon Martin, Deerfield Beach, Ravens

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenny McIntosh during the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. (Jennifer Buchanan/The Seattle Times/TNS)

Kenny McIntosh, University School, Seahawks

Josh Metellus #44 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after his team defeated the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Dec. 22, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Josh Metellus, Flanagan, Vikings

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Elijah Moore (18) carries the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Elijah Moore, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bills

Parker Michels-Boyce / APWashington redskins Fabian Moreau (31) completes a pass at NFL football training camp in Richmond, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Parker Michels-Boyce)

Fabian Moreau, Western, Vikings

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Bryce Oliver (80) walks off the field after the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)

Bryce Oliver, Dillard, Titans

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Joshua Palmer, left, tries to break a tackle by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins during the second half of an NFL football game in Orchard Park, N.Y., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)

Joshua Palmer, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bills

Pittsburgh Steelers' James Pierre plays during an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

James Pierre, Deerfield Beach, Steelers

Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is upended by Daryl Porter Jr. #39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first quarter of the NFL Preseason 2025 game at Acrisure Stadium on Aug. 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)

Daryl Porter Jr., American Heritage, Steelers

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Xavier Restrepo (87) against the Minnesota Vikings during a preseason NFL football game, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Amis)

Xavier Restrepo, Deerfield Beach, Titans

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley (0) is tackled by Denver Broncos cornerback Riley Moss (21) as safety Talanoa Hufanga (9) pursues in the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Calvin Ridley, Monarch, Titans

Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. (98) stretches during warm ups before the first half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Kareem Elgazzar)

TJ Slaton, American Heritage, Bengals

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) throws a pass during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Geno Smith, Miramar, Raiders

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson (65) and guard Tyler Steen (56) in action during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Tyler Steen, St. Thomas Aquinas, Eagles

Pat Surtain II #2 of the Denver Broncos praying before an NFL preseason football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, La., Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Ella Hall)

Pat Surtain II, American Heritage, Broncos

New York Jets tight end Mason Taylor (85) grabs a helmet during an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)

Mason Taylor, St. Thomas Aquinas, Jets

Minnesota Vikings linebacker Dallas Turner (15) battles against New York Jets tight end Jeremy Ruckert (89) during an NFL football game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024 in London. The Minnesota Vikings defeated the New York Jets 23-17. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)

Dallas Turner, St. Thomas Aquinas, Vikings

Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) celebrates an interception during the first half of an NFL football preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings, Aug. 22, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)

James Williams, American Heritage, Titans

Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Marco Wilson celebrates a pass break up against Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Anthony Gould during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Kareem Elgazzar)

Marco Wilson, American Heritage, Bengals

BY SCHOOL

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS (11): Damon Arnette, Texans; Jordan Battle, Bengals; Nik Bonitto, Broncos; Joey Bosa, Bills; Nick Bosa, 49ers; Phillip Dorsett, Raiders; Elijah Moore, Bills; Josh Palmer, Bills; Tyler Steen, Eagles; Mason Taylor, Jets; Dallas Turner, Vikings

AMERICAN HERITAGE (10): Brian Burns, Giants; Tyson Campbell, Jaguars; Oronde Gadsden II, Chargers; Khalil Herbert, Colts; James Houston, Cowboys; Daryl Porter Jr., Steelers; TJ Slaton, Bengals; Pat Surtain II, Broncos; James Williams, Titans; Marco Wilson, Bengals

DEERFIELD BEACH (6): Deslin Alexandre, Packers; Brandon Dorlus, Falcons; Jerry Jeudy, Browns; Keyon Martin, Ravens; James Pierre, Steelers; Xavier Restrepo, Titans

MIRAMAR (4): Yodny Cajuste, Dolphins; Myles Harden, Browns; Shemar Jean-Charles, Seahawks; Geno Smith, Raiders

CHAMINADE-MADONNA (2): Andy Borregales, Patriots; Marquise Brown, Chiefs

DILLARD (2): Jonathan Ford, Bears; Bryce Oliver, Titans

FLANAGAN (2): Devin Bush Jr., Browns; Josh Metellus, Vikings

MCARTHUR (2): Ruben Hyppolite II, Bears; Kevin Knowles, Chiefs

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL (2): Zay Flowers, Ravens; Kenny McIntosh, Seahawks

BOYD ANDERSON (1): Rivaldo Fairweather, Cowboys

HALLANDALE (1): Tyler Huntley, Ravens

MONARCH (1): Calvin Ridley, Titans

NORTH BROWARD PREP (1): Kevin Austin Jr., Saints

PLANTATION (1): Chris Lammons, Colts

SOUTH PLANTATION (1): Robbie Chosen, 49ers

WESTERN (1): Fabian Moreau, Vikings

BY TEAM

TITANS (4): Bryce Oliver, Dillard; Xavier Restrepo, Deerfield Beach; Calvin Ridley, Monarch; James Williams, American Heritage

BENGALS (3): Jordan Battle, St. Thomas Aquinas; TJ Slaton, American Heritage; Marco Wilson, American Heritage

BILLS (3): Joey Bosa, St. Thomas Aquinas; Elijah Moore, St. Thomas Aquinas; Josh Palmer, St. Thomas Aquinas

BROWNS (3): Devin Bush Jr., Flanagan; Myles Harden, Miramar; Jerry Jeudy, Deerfield Beach

RAVENS (3): Zay Flowers, University School; Tyler Huntley, Hallandale; Keyon Martin, Deerfield Beach

VIKINGS (3): Josh Metellus, Flanagan; Fabian Moreau, Western; Dallas Turner, St. Thomas Aquinas

49ERS (2): Nick Bosa, St. Thomas Aquinas; Robbie Chosen, South Plantation

BEARS (2): Jonathan Ford, Dillard; Ruben Hyppolite II, McArthur

BRONCOS (2): Nik Bonitto, St. Thomas Aquinas; Pat Surtain II, American Heritage

CHIEFS (2): Marquise Brown, Chaminade-Madonna; Kevin Knowles, McArthur

COLTS (2): Khalil Herbert, American Heritage; Chris Lammons, Plantation

COWBOYS (2): James Houston, American Heritage; Rivaldo Fairweather, Boyd Anderson

RAIDERS (2): Phillip Dorsett, St. Thomas Aquinas; Geno Smith, Miramar

SEAHAWKS (2): Shemar Jean-Charles, Miramar; Kenny McIntosh, University School

STEELERS (2): James Pierre, Deerfield Beach; Daryl Porter Jr., American Heritage

CHARGERS (1): Oronde Gadsden II, American Heritage

DOLPHINS (1): Yodny Cajuste, Miramar

EAGLES (1): Tyler Steen, St. Thomas Aquinas

FALCONS (1): Brandon Dorlus, Deerfield Beach

GIANTS (1): Brian Burns, American Heritage

JAGUARS (1): Tyson Campbell, American Heritage

JETS (1): Mason Taylor, St. Thomas Aquinas

PACKERS (1): Deslin Alexandre, Deerfield Beach

PATRIOTS (1): Andy Borregales, Chaminade-Madonna

SAINTS (1): Kevin Austin Jr., North Broward Prep

TEXANS (1): Damon Arnette, St. Thomas Aquinas

Teams with no Broward representation on opening weekend: Buccaneers, Cardinals, Commanders, Lions, Panthers and Rams.

The Bills and Chiefs, with six players each, were the teams most heavily populated by South Floridians, while the Lions and Commanders were the only teams without any representation from Broward, Miami-Dade or Palm Beach counties.

Wagaman, Edwards, Lopez power Marlins by Nationals

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 19:20

MIAMI (AP) — Eric Wagaman hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the sixth inning, Xavier Edwards had a three-run homer among his three hits and Otto Lopez drove in two runs as the Miami Marlins overcame an early three-run deficit and beat the Washington Nationals 8-3 on Wednesday night.

Robert Hassell III had an RBI single in the third inning and Daylen Lile and Luis Garcia Jr. knocked in runs in the sixth as the Nationals built a 3-0 lead.

Miami started its comeback in the bottom of the sixth as Jakob Marsee (four hits), Lopez, Agustin Ramirez drove in runs before Wagaman’s run-scoring hit gave the Marlins a 4-3 lead. Lopez added an RBI single in the seventh and Edwards added his third homer of the year in the eighth.

In his 39th career game, it marked Marsee’s second four-hit outing.

Miami starter Eury Perez allowed three earned runs and seven hits with seven strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, but didn’t figure in the decision. Lake Bachar (6-2) worked two-thirds of an inning and earned the victory.

Jake Irvin (8-12) took the loss for the Nationals.

Washington interim manager Miguel Cairo was ejected in the sixth inning after a disputed play. The Marlins disputed a call when Marsee was ruled out on a tag play at second. The umpires met and changed the call to safe. That Nationals challenged, but the safe call was upheld. Cairo argued the ruling and was then ejected by Laz Diaz. Irvin, after being removed from the game, was also ejected by Diaz.

Key moment

Abrams’ error to begin the sixth opened the floodgates for Miami.

Key stat

Edwards had three hits and Marsee four from the top spots in Miami’s order.

Up next

Nationals LHP MacKenzie Gore (5-13, 4.15 ERA) comes off the injured list to start Thursday against Marlins LHP Ryan Weathers (1-1, 3.28).

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Caleb Banks back for Gators’ visit to LSU to provide much-needed interior defensive presence

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 17:17

GAINESVILLE — Florida star defensive tackle Caleb Banks is back just in time for the Gators’ visit to No. 3 LSU.

The 6-foot-5 ¾, 330-pound redshirt senior is not listed on Wednesday’s SEC availability report after missing the first two games with a foot injury. Banks could create the interior push UF could use to harass Tigers veteran quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and pull off an upset as 7.5-point underdogs.

With Banks on the sideline, the Gators have managed just two sacks in two games and could not contain USF dual-threat quarterback Byrum Brown, who rushed for 66 yards and passed for 263 during an 18-16 upset by the Bulls.

Banks had a sack against LSU during the Gators’ 27-16 upset victory on Nov. 16 in the Swamp. A week later against Ole Miss, he recorded 2.5 sacks.

The November performance vaulted Banks, a transfer from Louisville in 2023, into NFL draft conversations as a potential first-round draft pick.

While Banks will be available at Tiger Stadium, freshman receiver Dallas Wilson is listed as out and will miss his third straight game. Wilson was expected to be a major factor in the Gators’ passing game, which has struggled through two games as sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway continues to find his stride after an injury-riddled offseason.

Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com

Reagan Foundation cancels Ben Shapiro speaking event, after fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 17:11

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley has canceled an event with conservative political commentator and activist Ben Shapiro — which was scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 10 — after learning that fellow conservative activist Charlie Kirk had been fatally shot earlier in the day.

Shapiro was set to appear at the library to discuss his new book, “Lions and Scavengers: The True Story of America (and Her Critics),” on Wednesday night.

The Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, however, announced the event’s cancelation after Kirk, 31, was shot and killed during a speaking engagement in Utah.

“The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is saddened to hear of events that took place today at Utah Valley University. Our prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family,” the foundation wrote on social media. “As a mark of respect, we are cancelling our program and book signing with Ben Shapiro this evening.”

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum celebrates its 30th anniversary with a month’s worth of activities, including an exhibition of rarely seen historical artifacts associated with President and Mrs. Reagan, photos and mementos from the Library’s opening, as well as highlights and events from the last 30 years. (Photo by David Crane, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Kirk, the co-founder and CEO of the youth organization Turning Point USA, rose to prominence for confronting liberals in academia, eventually winning over an influential set of conservative financiers. He was an early backer of President Donald Trump, going on to serve as a personal aide to Donald Trump Jr. during the elder Trump’s 2016 campaign.

Soon, Kirk was a regular presence on cable TV, where he leaned into the culture wars and heaped praise on the then-president. He often espoused far-right political talking points, including racist, homophobic, and transphobic beliefs.

He was also a staunch defender of the Second Amendment, notably saying during a 2023 TPUSA faith event: “I think it’s worth to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our other God-given rights.”

Shapiro and Kirk, meanwhile, operated within the same political sphere. Shapiro said on social media Wednesday that he was “utterly stunned and heartbroken” about Kirk’s death.

“Charlie was a good man who believed in right and wrong, who stood by his Biblical values,” Shapiro said. “All of us will miss him, and I can’t imagine the pain of his beautiful young family, and we all must pray for them. And we must pick up the baton where Charlie left it, fighting for the things he believed in so passionately.”

The Reagan Foundation said a new date for Shapiro’s library event would be announced in the future.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Daily Horoscope for September 11, 2025

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 17:00
General Daily Insight for September 11, 2025

Right now is all about clear-sighted thinking and improving efficiency. The Moon is loping along through grounded Taurus, encouraging us to move at a slow and steady pace. While here, the Moon will reach out across the sky to form a spectacularly harmonious trine with messenger Mercury, currently in its home sign of meticulous Virgo, at 10:18 pm EDT. This can inspire us to be our most productive and effective selves, so this is no time for lazing about or wasting energy.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

This is no time for overthinking. There is a simplicity to the energy of this lunar transit, thanks to a productive angle between the Moon in your money-loving 2nd house and mental Mercury in your sensible 6th house. This can inspire you to imagine unique ways to achieve your goals without needing to bend over backward or work yourself to the bone to make it happen. A little careful consideration can yield very positive results, so take time to properly evaluate your situation.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Fun shouldn’t be forbidden — quite the opposite! You’re tuned in to your own personal issues while the Moon is in your sign. That doesn’t at all have to be a bad thing, especially when the Moon trines Mercury in your 5th House of Jubilation. Shake off any heaviness and venture in search of something to bring a bit of joy into your life, whatever that might mean to you. Mercury should ensure that there are plenty of opportunities to do just that.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Domestic matters could be front and center today. You may be off in your own little world while the Moon is whirling through your 12th House of the Subconscious. Watch out — Luna’s trine to mischievous Mercury in your 4th House of Dwellings might stir up some issues for you to deal with under your roof. Fortuitously, this angle is a positive one, so you should enjoy whatever occurs. Since Mercury is such a chatty planet, consider inviting people over for a fun evening.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

There is a very social shine to the day. Thanks to a special trine between the Moon in your friendly 11th house and Mercury in your wordy 3rd house, you’re going to be on a bit of a metaphorical merry-go-round. The good news is that you’ll probably have a wonderful time and be happy to see all the faces passing by. Try to stop and talk with at least a few of them, because you can discover some very fascinating tidbits if you do.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

You can make clear, considerate progress today. There is a helpful trine between the focused Moon in your determined 10th house and loquacious Mercury in your income-focused 2nd house, guiding you to figure out what steps are necessary for you to increase your net worth. Perhaps a new financial opportunity will make itself known to you, or you’ll figure out a modern way to approach an old problem that will yield beneficial results. Put on your thinking cap and get to work!

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Your soul is worthy of trust. You may sometimes want to play it safe before you put your ideas out into the open, but today, the Moon in your truth-telling 9th house is trining your ruler Mercury in your clever sign. There shouldn’t be any keeping quiet for you! There’s nothing wrong with expressing yourself and telling others what you think — just consider your words beforehand. That way, you won’t have anything to regret down the line when all is said and done.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Think outside the box. The Moon is in your transformational 8th house, so things may seem a bit intense. Take a deep breath and let the lunar trine to Mercury in your pensive 12th house act as a pressure release, easing up the situation and making everything feel more bearable. Take a few minutes to let your mind wander, and life may not be simpler, but you’ll be able to handle it. Even the most complicated issues can work themselves out when given time.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Listening is a vital skill at this time. You can normally rely on your views to support your journey onward, wherever you’re heading. Today’s trine between the Moon and Mercury across your relationship sectors is reminding you to hear what other people have to say. Make an effort not to worry that this will be negative or that you won’t like what you hear. A few other viewpoints could drastically improve your situation and position, so be willing to do some crowdsourcing.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Putting yourself out there is possible. A valuable trine between the Moon in your competent 6th house and Mercury in your professional 10th house is supporting you to establish a path toward success, with each step clearly defined. Don’t focus too much on the bigger picture — first, break everything down into components that can be easily managed one at a time. You’ll reach the finish line much sooner than you’d ever expect by doing just that, so don’t waste this positive opportunity.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Playing it small may as well be playing nothing at all! The Moon in your high-spirited 5th house is trining messenger Mercury in your adventurous 9th house, so the further you go now, the more pleasure you can find in the great wide yonder. Leave limitations or old worries behind and go off in search of something exciting that can light a fresh fire within you. You deserve a smidgeon of fun, so don’t leave this opportunity for others to snap up instead.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

The emotional weather forecast is looking intense! You’re possibly deep in your feelings while the Moon is hunkered down in your 4th House of Foundations — and things may seem even more extreme when the Moon trines Mercury in your 8th House of Deep Bonding. Fortunately, the connection between these two is optimistic, so the best way forward is by being open and honest with your feelings. Don’t keep them bottled up! Speak your truth, then you should feel worlds lighter.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Leading the way could be best left to others at the moment. Regardless of your usual preference, there’s no harm in allowing someone else to call the shots for a while as the Moon in your 3rd House of Dialogue trines Mercury in your 7th House of Collaborations. A specific friend or peer may have a few words of wisdom that totally change your situation for the better, or perhaps they’ll offer you a much-needed helping hand. At least consider any offered advice.

4 years, 3 protest movements: How public fury toppled leaders in Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 16:42

By SHEIKH SAALIQ

NEW DELHI (AP) — The swelling wave of public anger first swept through the island nation of Sri Lanka in 2022 and ousted the president. Two years later, it erupted in Bangladesh as protesters toppled the ruling government. On Monday public fury exploded in Nepal, forcing its prime minister to resign a day after.

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Each protest movement began with a specific grievance that flared up, ending in the rejection of the government or its leaders.

In many ways, the protest movements share a common feature: disillusioned peoples’ resentment against the ruling elite and an entrenched political system they hold responsible for rampant corruption, deepening inequality and economic disparities.

Often led by young people, the protests have sparked deadly violence and sometimes left behind a political vacuum filled by unelected leaders and a worsening law and order situation.

“A perception of ruling elites as being both corrupt and ineffective at delivering a plausible path forward has created a structural basis for major crises,” said Paul Staniland, a politics professor specializing in South Asia at the University of Chicago.

Nepal’s public fury is largely against the political elite

The youth-led protests in Nepal began on Monday as simmering discontent over years was ignited by the government’s ban on major social media platforms. Many were particularly angry that the children of political leaders seem to enjoy a lavish lifestyle, while most of the population was dealing with economic problems, rising unemployment and widespread corruption.

The unrest has left at least 19 people dead.

Smoke billows from the parliament building after it was set on fire during a protest against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Prakash Timalsina)

Protesters — who have not clearly spelled out their demands apart from rallying under the anti-corruption call — burned the parliament building, presidential house, and residences of several ministers and other politicians. Bending to mounting public pressure, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli reversed the social media ban and quit. However, he will still lead a caretaker government until a new one is in place.

It is unclear what the new government would look like and whether it will constitute the old political guard. Many Nepalis fear a familiar sequence of bargaining among the same political class they want to overthrow.

Nepal is fraught with frequent political instability and each prime minister’s tenure has lasted just a year or two since the new constitution came into effect in 2015. The country abolished its monarchy in 2006, after a violent uprising that forced its former king to give up his authoritarian rule.

Staniland said the violence could make it “much harder to determine who should be in charge or how they should proceed.”

“The big question now in Nepal will be whether order can be restored and new, stable political dispensation forged,” he said.

Before Nepal there was Bangladesh and Sri Lanka

Those in Nepal looking for answers about its future will not find solace in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The lack of consensus on basic reform demands like elections and anti-corruption mechanisms, and an uncertain road map for the future, have dented the democratic progress in those countries and further exacerbated the problems they face.

In Bangladesh, student-led protests started with anger against rules that limited the number of civil service jobs based on merit. They morphed into a massive nationwide uprising in July last year that culminated in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hundreds of people, mostly students, were killed in violent protests.

Hasina fled to India, and an unelected interim administration, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, was installed. He promised to restore order and hold a new election after necessary reforms.

Show Caption1 of 3FILE -Protesters climb a public monument as they celebrate the news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajib Dhar, File) Expand

One year on, Bangladesh remains mired in instability. Politic parties are bickering over election dates. Mob violence, political attacks on rival parties and groups, and hostility to vulnerable minority groups by religious hard-liners have surged.

In Sri Lanka, the then-Prime minister Ranil Wickremensignhe took over the country after protesters forced the powerful Rajapaksa clan out in 2022. The country later had a democratic transition of power after Marxist lawmaker Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected as president last year. He promised to improve standards of living, clean up government and hold corrupt politicians responsible for their actions.

Almost a year later, Sri Lanka’s problems seem far from over. Its people continue to deal with issues like economic hardships, human rights concerns and foreign-debt default.

“There is no sign of the ideals of change desired by the protesters,” said Veeragathy Thanabalasingham, a Colombo-based political expert.

Wider instability in the region

Recent popular revolts have also rocked other nations in the region.

In Indonesia, deadly protests last week over lawmakers’ perks and the cost of living forced the country’s president to replace key economic and security ministers. The protests have led to the death of at least seven people.

In Myanmar, imprisoned former leader Aung San Suu Kyi ’s democratically-elected government was ousted by the military in 2021. Resistance to the military government has grown, and the country is now in the midst of a brutal civil war.

Staniland said while “most protests come and go without such dramatic results” as those seen in Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, “the kindling is there for miscalculations and unexpected events to spiral.”

“I think Nepal represents the new politics of instability in South Asia,” he said.

Associated Press writer Krishan Francis in Colombo, Sri Lanka contributed to this report.

Prince Harry has tea with his father, King Charles III, in first meeting in over a year

South Florida Local News - Wed, 09/10/2025 - 16:30

By DANICA KIRKA and BRIAN MELLEY

LONDON (AP) — Britain’s Prince Harry joined his father, King Charles III, for tea on Wednesday at the monarch’s London home, the first time they’ve met in well over a year.

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The two have been distant since Harry and his wife, Meghan, left royal life and moved to California in 2020 and then publicly aired grievances about the royal family.

Buckingham Palace confirmed that Charles and Harry spent time together at Clarence House, where the king lives when he’s in the capital.

Late Wednesday afternoon, Harry was driven through the gates of the four-story mansion not far from Buckingham Palace. He was seen leaving less than an hour later, as he ducked down in the car enroute to an evening event for his Invictus Games, which supports injured and sick service members and veterans.

There had been speculation that Harry might meet his father after he arrived in the U.K. on Monday, the third anniversary of the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, for a four-day trip during which he will visit several of the charities he supports.

A meeting in July between representatives of the king, 76, and his wayward son, 40, led to suggestions that the frigid relationship between Harry and his family might be thawing.

The split had deepened over the past five years as Harry and Meghan aired their grievances with the royal family in a tell-all interview to Oprah Winfrey and a revealing Netflix series. Harry, also known as the Duke of Sussex, then fueled the tensions by revealing personal conversations in his memoir, “Spare.”

Harry and his father last met in February 2024, when the prince flew to London after receiving news that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer. Harry spent about 45 minutes with Charles before the king flew to his Sandringham country estate to recuperate from his treatment.

Harry has also had little contact with his elder brother, Prince William, heir to the throne.

Harry was last in London in April, when the Court of Appeal rejected his bid to restore a police protection detail that was canceled after he stopped being a working royal. Charles was on a state visit to Italy at the time, so a meeting then was impossible.

That case was itself an impediment to improved relations because it involved Harry criticizing the king’s government in the courts. But once it was over, change became possible.

Immediately after the case ended, Harry said he would “love reconciliation with my family.”

“There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore,” he told the BBC on the day the court case was resolved. “Life is precious. I don’t know how much longer my father has.”

Despite that olive branch, Harry had also struck a combative tone. The prince repeatedly said the decision to withdraw his security was made at the direction of the royal household in an effort to control him and his wife while putting their safety at risk.

“What I’m struggling to forgive, and what I will probably always struggle to forgive, is the decision that was made in 2020 that affects my every single day and that is knowingly putting me and my family in harm’s way,” Harry said.

Show Caption1 of 4Britain’s Prince Harry holds an Imperial External Fixator during a visit to the Centre for Blast Injury Studies at Imperial College London, in London, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (Suzanne Plunkett, Pool Photo via AP) Expand

But with the lawsuit out of the way, there were signs of change.

In July, the new team handling Harry and Meghan’s communications, headed by Los Angeles-based Meredith Maines, was seen on the balcony of a private members’ club in London speaking with Tobyn Andreae, the king’s press representative. The Mail on Sunday tabloid took a photo of what it called: “The secret Harry peace summit.”

Regardless of who tipped off the newspaper, it showed a change of tone since the meeting wouldn’t have happened if the principals hadn’t given their tacit consent.

Following the long-awaited meeting Wednesday, Harry dashed to his next charity appearance at an Invictus Games event across town.

When a reporter asked about his father’s health, the prince offered his firsthand opinion: “Yes he’s great, thank you.”

  
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