Florida
Gov. Bob Graham remembered for helping shape Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV/Gray Florida Capital Bureau) – Sentiments poured in from across Florida Wednesday after former Governor Bob Graham passed away.
Graham’s political career spanned 50 years, including his time as Florida’s governor for most of the 80s. He was at one time among the most popular politicians in Florida, known for his work days, where he took different jobs for a day.
“He was a great Floridian. We served this state with honor and integrity and really made a great contribution,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.
Graham spent decades in elected office. He served in the state legislature before being elected governor in 1978. Rep. Allison Tant, (D) Tallahassee, started her public service career under Governor Graham as an intern in college.
“I learned from Governor Graham what smart, efficient government looks like and its impact on everyday people and what would happen to everyday people if smart efficient government was not there,” Rep. Tant said.
Graham’s legacy at the state capitol will be remembered as one that helped shape the state as it is today.
“He was heavily involved in issues like conservation. Things like Forever Florida, which sets aside huge tracts of land for long-term preservation because of Senator Graham. Everglades restoration, the work done in the keys,” Democratic strategist Steve Schale said.
“Education. He really led the way at a time before that was a huge focus for our state. We have policies in place today that came from his era,” Rep. Tant said.
Rep. Tant said his passing is a big loss for the state.
“A rare true statesman who saw our state as precious,” she said.
Graham is survived by his wife, four daughters, including former US Rep. Gwen Graham, and 10 grandchildren.
Governor DeSantis said he would order flags at half-staff for Governor Graham when funeral arrangements are announced.
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New bill targets Florida ‘super speeders’
Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would stiffen penalties for so-called “super speeders:” those who drive at least 50 mph over the speed limit or are clocked driving 100 mph or faster. FOX 13’s Kailey Tracy reports.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida lawmakers want to pump the brakes on drivers exceeding the speed limit.
A new bill looks to increase the penalties for so-called super speeders. House Bill 351 defines super speeders as anyone driving 50 mph or more over the speed limit or driving 100 mph. Representative Susan Plasencia introduced the bill.
Why you should care:
The first offense could land you in jail for up to 90 days, or a fine of $500, or both. The second time, you could go to jail for up to six months, pay a fine of at least $5,000, or face both jail time and the fine.
You’ll also get your license suspended for one year.
READ: Accused driver offered plea deal for DUI crash that killed 19-year-old motorcyclist
In Orange County in January, deputies cited 101 drivers for going 100 miles per hour or more. In January of last year, they cited 29. Orange County Sheriff John Mina is a big supporter of the bill and says one of his priorities this year is to push for a law to increase penalties for super speeders.
What they’re saying:
“We put these signs out all the time that say, ‘Hey, you know, drive like your kids live here,’” Sheriff Mina said. “And if you’re going that fast in a residential area, that’s what I as a parent and that’s where most residents are concerned, you know, you’re going to hit a kid. You’re going to hit a dog. You’re going to you’re going to kill somewhere,” Sheriff Mina said.
What’s next:
The bill is currently in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee. If the bill is passed and the governor signs it into law, it will go into effect July 1.
The Source: This story was written with information gathered by FOX 13’s Kailey Tracy.
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Will Richard scored 15 points, Alijah Martin added 14 points and seven rebounds, and top-seeded Florida played a steady second half to run away from No. 4 seed Maryland and into the NCAA Tournament’s West Region final with an 87-71 win Thursday night.
Walter Clayton Jr. contributed 13 points and four assists as Florida’s Big Three seniors and their deep supporting cast took down the Maryland “Crab Five” starters — one of Terrapins coach Kevin Willard’s concerns coming into this matchup.
Freshman sensation Derik Queen scored 27 points to lead Maryland (27-9) in what might have been Willard’s final game guiding the program. He has been linked to the opening at Villanova.
Florida (33-4) advances to play Saturday against the winner of Thursday’s late game at Chase Center between third-seeded Texas Tech and No. 10 seed Arkansas.
The Gators, in the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2017 and seeking the program’s first Final Four berth since 2014, committed 13 of their 17 turnovers in the first half but took better care of the ball over the final 20 minutes. Florida already eliminated two-time defending NCAA champion UConn in the second round and is 10-1 in regional semifinals.
Listen to the episode
Today we’re catching up with friend of the pod Justin Timineri. As executive chef for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service’s Fresh From Florida program, he is the state’s official culinary ambassador. Sounds like a sweet gig, right? It is. But as you’ll hear, it’s also a lot of work.
Dalia recently caught up with Chef Justin. In their conversation, he recalls his earliest food memories from his Tallahassee childhood, shares stories from his remarkable career that has included showcasing our state’s food all over the world and his favorite Florida food trends.
To learn more about Chef Justin Timineri, check out Dalia’s profile of him in the spring issue of FORUM, the magazine of Florida Humanities.
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