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, which also owns Brew Bus Brewing, is finally making its return to Seminole Heights for the first time in almost two years.

Although the new Florida Avenue taproom—located at 4315 N Florida Ave. in Seminole Heights—won’t be open quite in time for this year’s rendition of Tampa Bay Beer Week, patrons can still expect a soft opening in March.

CEO Anthony Derby talked about the decision to merge Florida Avenue and Brew Bus with Creative Loafing Tampa Bay, stating that it’s one of the company's main goals of 2023 to consolidate the two local beer brands.

“Moving forward, all of our can designs and branding are now through Florida Avenue Brewing,” Derby said. “We’re still going strong with the beer tourism buses, but now we’re streamlining our focus to the Florida Avenue brand.”

Although there’s no soft opening date locked in, the new taproom and brewery is near completion. When open, the 3,000 square-foot space will boast a five-barrel brewing system (with the intention to add more), 16 taps filled with core products and seasonal pours, a large shaded patio, and most of its original staff behind the bar.

From its general manager to head brewer and line cooks, all staff at Florida Avenue’s upcoming taproom have worked within the company for years—some might even recognize a few faces from Brew Bus’ former Seminole Heights location. While Derby hasn’t had much time to think about grand opening details, he’s “really confident about everything that we’ll be putting out from day one onward.”

In terms of differences between its soon-to-open taproom and its former Brew Bus space, Derby says that it’s “a little more stylish and comfortable” than its predecessor. Renovations and new decor aside, the upcoming Florida Avenue location will continue to host its “Friday Night Heights” neighborhood parties, a longstanding tradition within the company.

The new Seminole Heights brewery and taproom will share food and drink offerings with its 38,000-square-foot sibling location in Wesley Chapel. Its 20 foot-long, on-site food trailer plans to dish out the same beer-friendly eats like Bavarian pretzels, chicken wings, cheese curds and cheesesteaks, but the two location’s tap lists might differ from time to time.

“The taps between the two locations won't mirror each other 100%, but there will definitely be some continuity between what's available at each taproom,” Derby added.

While Wesley Chapel’s location has been in the works since 2019, plans for another Seminole Heights taproom didn’t come into fruition until its Brew Bus space at 4101 N Florida Ave.—which now houses Angry Chair Brewing—closed in 2021.

While Derby and the rest of his team initially intended to stay at the former Brew Bus spot, unsuccessful rent negotiations ultimately deterred them from renewing the lease. Joe Redner, Tampa strip club legend and president of Florida Avenue Brewing Co., told the Tampa Bay Times last year that “they jacked my rent up (so) I bought a piece of property in Wesley Chapel.”

Although the rent was certainly a factor, Derby told CL he had been wanting to expand north of Tampa for quite some time.

“When I met my now wife in 2015, she lived in Wesley Chapel and I started noticing all of these great things happening there,” Derby says. “It was impeccable timing when we bought that space in 2019, I knew we needed to be in that area.”

Florida Avenue opened the restaurant portion of its massive Wesley Chapel location in the fall of 2020, with its brewery following a few months later, after construction-related delays. While all of its core products—like the perpetually popular “You’re My Boy Blue” blueberry wheat ale and its “Luminescence” tropical hazy IPA— will be manufactured in Wesley Chapel, its Seminole Heights space will produce seasonal and one-off brews throughout the year, too.

And like its sibling brewery, Florida Avenue Brewing Co.’s Seminole Heights location will offer a full liquor bar, coinciding with the company’s expansion into the world of canned cocktails.

When Brew Bus acquired Florida Avenue in 2015, the young business (led by a young Derby) inherited an established brewery that specialized in beers for the humid Florida climate.

“Honestly, when we purchased Florida Avenue, we were kind of just looking for a place to brew our own beer,” Derby explained. “That's all we knew at the time.”

Eight years and a global pandemic later, business has certainly changed, as has Derby’s relationship to the craft beer industry as a whole.

He first started Brew Bus in 2011 as a senior at the University of Colorado, with his parents driving buses and hosting tours until he moved back to Tampa post-graduation.

“I would say my relationship to the beer industry has continued to evolve,” Derby said. “We used to be knee-deep in beer tourism, but that’s a model that’s already been perfected. In order to grow into the scale of what we really wanted to do, we realized that we had to be on the production and manufacturing side of things.”

With over 100 employees to manage and millions invested into the buildouts in Tampa and Wesley Chapel, Derby says he had to take a step back from his involvement in the local beer community to focus on the brand’s expansion. And its upcoming Seminole Heights brewery might not be the only new location on the horizon.

“We want to open more Florida Avenue taprooms within the three counties in our immediate area because I want to stay close to my family and home, but still continue to grow,” Derby tells CL. “We’ve looked at spots in the Trinity and Odessa areas, but haven't locked in another spot anywhere.”

With its new location getting ready to open its doors and a fully-loaded 2023 release calendar full of new brews, Derby and the rest of his Florida Avenue team are certainly staying busy.

And for the latest updates on Florida Avenue’s highly-anticipated soft opening later this month, head to its Facebook or Instagram, both at @floridaavebrewing.

Tallahassee, Fla, – The number two ranked Florida State Seminoles started their season 5-0 after defeating two ranked teams at their annual Beach Bash tournament. On Sunday, Feb 26^th, the Noles defeated No. 16 FIU 4-1 and No.19 South Carolina 4-1.

Florida State improved their all-time opening weekend record to 38-3 and their home record to 65-3.

FSU 4, No. 16 FIU 1

The Seminoles are now 11-2 all-time against the Golden Panthers. The first match point came from court one by the duo of Maddie Anderson and Paige Kalkhoff. The pair won two quick sets against the Golden Panthers 21-12 and 21-19.

Court five quickly followed suit with Carra Sassack and Chloe Charles defeating the FIU pair 21-17 and 21-18 in their first pairing together this season.

The match-clinching point was earned by Morgan Chacon and Caitlin Moon on court four. Moon and Chacon put together some close points against the Golden Panthers but held on to win both sets 21-19 and 21-18.

Even though the match was already won, court two and three went to three sets. On court two, Alexis Durish and Raelyn White stayed strong in the third set to win 15-12 after giving up the second set 18-21. The duo won a defensive first set 21-18 that forced the third set to be played.

On court three, Anna Long and Jordan Polo provided plenty of entertainment with three close sets. The first set went in favor of FIU 19-21 after alternating the lead many times. The second set was much like the first, but this time FSU pulled away towards the end of the set, winning 21-15. Long and Polo fought a valiant effort in the third set, before eventually falling 13-15.

FSU 4, No. 19 South Carolina 1

The final match of the tournament provided FSU with a 4-1 win, this time against No. 19 South Carolina.

Carra Sassack and Chloe Charles found their groove quickly and spared no time winning the first point for the Seminoles on court five. The final score of the two sets were 21-15 and 21-19. The duo did not drop a set in either match played today.

Morgan Chacon and Caitlin Moon owned court four, going unbeaten on the weekend. The duo beat FIU in two sets going 22-20 and 21-17.

As it was all weekend, Maddie Anderson and Paige Kalkhoff were on court one for the match against FIU. The pair clinched the match-winning point with a two-set win of 21-17 and 22-20. Anderson and Kalkhoff only dropped one dual the entire weekend.

On court two, Alexis Durish and Raelyn White were in a three set battle, after losing the first set 18-21, the pair came out hot and won the second set 21-15. A hard fought back-and-forth third set was played but ultimately FIU took the win 13-15 giving them their first dual point.

Jordan Polo and Anna Long closed the weekend out well with two efficient sets in their favor. The first set was 21-15 and the second set was 21-17. Long and Polo also only dropped one dual the entire weekend.

The Seminoles travel to Tampa this weekend for the Tampa Invitational on March 4^th and 5^th. The weekend will start with the Noles’ taking on No. 6 Grand Canyon at 12:00 PM and No. 15 Stetson at 4:00 PM.

–seminoles.com–

Sarasota (Fla.) Riverview four-star cornerback Charles Lester III is arguably Florida State’s top target at his position in the 2024 class — and maybe their biggest recruit overall.

The Seminoles made his top five, which also included Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Ohio State. And now, he’ll return to Tallahassee for another visit this month, his eighth known trip to the school.

Florida State has been a mainstay throughout his recruitment, and he told Warchant.com in January that he has been an FSU fan for his entire childhood.

“I’ve been a Seminole my whole life,” Lester said. “The past three years, I’ve been watching and hearing the things everyone was saying about FSU. ‘FSU is going down the drain.’ After this year, that’s how it’s supposed to be on the field, and it’s only going to get better. There’s still a lot more to be done. The 10-3 season they had, I think next year is going to be a special year with this team.”

He’s developed a strong relationship with head coach Mike Norvell, and is also building one with new defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain, who was previously the head coach at Plantation (Fla.) American Heritage.

“I talk with Coach Norvell a lot,” Lester said. “He’s a great dude. And out of all the head coaches I’ve met, he’s the most excited, energetic head coach I’ve ever met. He’s more about the kids than anything else. He wants every guy to get where they want to be; that’s what excites him more.

He is the No. 22 overall prospect in the 2024 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Lester also ranks as the nation’s No. 3 cornerback and the No. 6 recruit in the state of Florida.

CLEMSON, S.C. – No. 23 Florida State Women’s Basketball suffered a 74-61 loss at Clemson to end its regular season on Sunday afternoon at Littlejohn Coliseum.

Despite Makayla Timpson’s 13^th double-double of the season with 17 points and 10 rebounds, the Seminoles (23-8, 12-6) were unable to clinch the No. 4 seed in the upcoming Ally ACC Tournament, which was made possible earlier in the day after Notre Dame defeated Louisville on the road. The Seminoles will play as the No. 5 seed in the ACC Second Round on Thursday at 11 a.m. on the ACC Network.

Florida State’s opponent will be determined tonight following the conclusion of the 4 p.m. Virginia Tech-Georgia Tech game. In the 12/13 contest will be some combination of Wake Forest, Georgia Tech and Virginia that will play in the first round on Wednesday.

Despite being picked ninth in the ACC preseason predicted order of finish, the Seminoles tied at fourth in the ACC regular season, which included 12 conference wins.

Clemson’s Amari Robinson had a big second half en route to 20 points to lead the Tigers (16-14, 7-11). FSU defeated Clemson earlier in the season at home, 93-62, on Jan. 5.

Senior guard Sara Bejedi added 12 points with five rebounds and four assists in the effort.

Despite being down 13 halfway through the third quarter, Florida State fought back and trailed just 60-58 with 7:15 left in the game on a bucket by Timpson. Three-point field goals on back-to-back possessions for Clemson proved to be the dagger as it took a 66-58 lead with 4:39 left. A Tiger layup and the foul with just under a minute left secured the win as it took a 71-61 lead.

Florida State out-rebounded Clemson, 45-36, and out-scored the Tigers off the bench, 25-11.

Clemson took an 18-15 lead through the first quarter, spurred by a 3-point field goal late from Hannah Hank. The Tigers then out-scored the Seminoles 20-15 in the second quarter, making four of their last four from the field heading into the locker room.

Timpson led FSU at the half with six points and six rebounds, and the Seminoles out-rebounded Clemson 25-15 at the break. Brie Perpignan guided Clemson with a seven-point lead into the locker room with 10 points.

The ACC will formally announce the bracket tonight for next week’s Ally ACC Tournament held at the Greensboro Coliseum from March 1-5.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida State Women’s Basketball student-athletes Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson were each recognized heavily by the Atlantic Coast Conference on Tuesday, with both players earning several postseason awards following tremendous regular-season performances.

Latson has been named the ACC Rookie of the Year, selected to the All-ACC First Team and is a member of the ACC All-Freshman Team. Timpson won ACC Most Improved Player, earned a nod on the All-ACC Second Team and was chosen to the ACC All-Defensive Team.

Latson is the first Seminole to earn ACC Rookie of the Year honors. She is a front-runner for National Freshman of the Year as well, leading all freshmen across the country with 21.3 points per game. The other FSU freshman to earn rookie of the year honors was Chantelle Dishman, who was the Metro Conference’s Freshman of the Year in 1990.

The Miami, Fla., native broke the conference record with 10 ACC Rookie of the Week awards this season. She became the first ACC freshman to lead the conference in scoring during the regular season, and led the ACC from start to finish.

Latson owns an ACC-leading 18 20-point games as well as seven 30-point games this year. She held an incredible streak of 14 consecutive 20-point games, the second-longest ever in NCAA Men’s or Women’s Basketball behind 18 straight from Trae Young at Oklahoma.

Timpson is FSU’s first recipient of the ACC Most Improved Player award, more than doubling her scoring and rebounding production from a season ago. The Edison, Ga., native ranks 11^th in the country with 67 blocked shots and is second in the league with 13 double-doubles – which is tied for the second most in a season at FSU.

Timpson is the eighth Seminole to earn ACC All-Defensive Team honors, leading the ACC for the majority of the season in blocked shots per game and currently sitting in second place. The other talented names that Timpson joins on FSU’s defensive list include current head coach Brooke Wyckoff, Alicia Gladden, Brittany Brown, Natasha Howard, Jacinta Monroe, Christian Hunnicutt and Morgan Jones.

Virginia Tech senior center Elizabeth Kitley was selected by the league’s coaches and Blue Ribbon Panel as the ACC Player of the Year. Duke senior guard Celeste Taylor is the league’s defensive player of the year, while NC State sophomore guard Saniya Rivers was chosen as the sixth player of the year.

2022-23 All-ACC Women’s Basketball Team Player of the Year: Elizabeth Kitley, Sr., C, Virginia Tech Defensive Player of the Year: Celeste Taylor, Sr., G, Duke

Coach of the Year: Niele Ivey, Notre Dame Rookie of the Year: Ta’Niya Latson, G, Florida State

Sixth Player of the Year: Saniya Rivers, So., G, NC State

Most Improved Player: Makayla Timpson, So., F, Florida State

All-ACC First Team

Elizabeth Kitley, Sr., C, Virginia Tech

Olivia Miles, So., G, Notre Dame

Ta’Niya Latson, Fr., G, Florida State

Hailey Van Lith, Jr., G, Louisville

Georgia Amoore, Jr., G, Virginia Tech

Dyaisha Fair, Sr., G, Syracuse

Deja Kelly, Jr., G, North Carolina

Celeste Taylor, Sr., G, Duke

Sonia Citron, So., G, Notre Dame

Alyssa Ustby, Jr., G, North Carolina

All-ACC Second Team

Makayla Timpson, So., F, Florida State

Jewel Spear, Jr., G, Wake Forest

Diamond Johnson, So., G, NC State

Haley Cavinder, Sr., G, Miami

Destiny Harden, Gr., F, Miami

Amari Robinson, Sr., F, Clemson

Camryn Taylor, Jr., G, Virginia

Maddy Westbeld, Jr., F, Notre Dame

Kennedy Todd-Williams, Jr., G, North Carolina

Taylor Soule, Gr., F, Virginia Tech

All-Defensive Team

Celeste Taylor, Sr., G, Duke

Mykasa Robinson, Gr., G, Louisville

Elizabeth Kitley, Sr., C, Virginia Tech

Makayla Timpson, So., F, Florida State

Dyaisha Fair, Sr., G, Syracuse

All-Freshman Team

Ta’Niya Latson, G, Florida State

Taina Mair, G, Boston College

Tonie Morgan, G, Georgia Tech

Ruby Whitehorn, G, Clemson

KK Bransford, G, Notre Dame

SEMINOLE — Maria’s Adult Day Care Center, located at 7821 Seminole Blvd., celebrated its 10-year anniversary recently with a week of activities, entertainment, and festive foods and decorations.

Just over a decade ago, Maria Winer, owner and founder of the day care center, worked as a professional guardian. She noticed when visiting clients’ homes, too many were inactive, isolated and napped a lot.

Then she visited an adult day care in Fort Lauderdale and liked what she saw. As nothing like it existed in Pinellas County, she decided to start her own where the elderly could come to socialize, be stimulated physically and mentally, and have fun.

“It seemed a miracle from God when we started to see the benefits for both the client and the caregiver,” she recalled.

Winer, 45, has a heart for people with dementia, but others such as Parkinson’s and stroke patients are well, too. Ditto seniors feeling isolated and lonely, those experiencing depression, frail and dependent individuals, and those suffering from chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension and arthritis.

The center has clients who have been using the facility for years and some who started coming more recently.

The location is licensed for 40, but the center has a current maximum of 27 and about 20 to 22 clients who attend daily. For every six clients, there’s one staff, and each staff member is a certified nursing assistant and med tech.

Clients are charged by the hour, and they’re required to attend a minimum of six hours a week. They can choose to do the six hours on one day or divide it. The center is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Clients tend to be greeted by name upon arrival. Activities include exercise classes, song sessions, volleyball, bowling, crafts and bingo. Birthdays are celebrated, and for each holiday there’s a special party.

Clients interviewed during a recent visit seemed more than pleased with the center.

“They get a lot of good entertainers,” said a client named Dennis. “The food is very good. They do careful planning.”

Brenda said, “I feel comfortable, and it’s a nice place; I like all the activities (and) they’re so good to you.

“I like everything,” offered Vanessa. “I can relax and enjoy myself. I get to do exercises and play card games.”

Said Jean: “They’re friendly. It’s nice and clean. I like to color and exercise. They’re geared to my age.”

“I’m very happy being here,” Constance chimed in. “They’re organized. We laugh a lot and have a good time.”

Added Pauline, “It’s nice to be here with the other people (and) I enjoy volleyball.

Ann brings her father, 95-year-old Benny, to Maria’s every day. He used to be the caregiver for his wife, Antionette, who came to Maria’s for over two years.

“It’s amazing and he loves it,” she enthused. “He’s entertained and enjoys socializing. The staff is attentive, smiling, and helpful. He makes things and gives them to the grandchildren. If he stayed at home, he’d be lonely. While he’s there, I get to watch my grandchildren.”

Carl brings his wife, Wanedda, to Maria’s every day.

“Maria’s saved my life,” he said. “The music and action help her well-being, and she’s safe at Maria’s. It gives me time for myself and for taking care of the house and going to the doctor. I could never measure the benefits (and) I have assistance with Medicaid.”

Alan, a snowbird from the Chicago area, has been bringing his wife, Sybil, to Maria’s twice a week for five years.

“I like Maria and the way she operates it,” he said. “My wife has a big smile when she comes in. It’s a nice atmosphere with visual stimulation, even though she can’t participate too much.”

Winer says of her mission is simple: to help improve the lives of seniors.

“It’s so gratifying,” she said. “I love what I do. It’s a labor of love.”

Elaine Creasman’s mother, Joan Miller, took great pleasure in attending Maria’s Adult Day Care during the last 1½ years of her dementia journey. Joan passed away in November 2022.

Seminole business owners, swathed in black and white attire, gathered to honor one another Feb. 25 during the Greater Seminole Area Chamber of Commerce’s 58th annual awards banquet.

Seminole City Council member Thom Barnhorn grabbed the top honor of the night when he was named the 2022 Mr. Seminole.

“I just want to say it is truly an honor,” Barnhorn said during his acceptance speech.

“I do everything I can for the community. I don’t do it to say, ‘Oh, give me an award,’ but I’m so glad you did,” he said with a laugh. “This is so wonderful. I’ll stay with the council and continue to do what I have always done. I don’t always listen to everybody saying, ‘You gotta do this and you gotta do that.’ But I say, ‘OK, head, what do you think?’ And I say, ‘OK, heart, what do you think?’ If both of them say yes, then I vote yes. If either one of them questions it, I vote no. And that way I know I am doing what I believe in my heart is best for everyone in this room and for our entire community.”

Barnhorn, a financial adviser, has served on Seminole’s City Council since 2006.

In her introduction of Barnhorn, Dr. Sandra Lilo, who was named Ms. Seminole in 2021, reflected on the character of individuals who have received the award.

“Mr. and Ms. Seminoles are ordinary community residents and business owners and workers that give in extraordinary ways their time and talent to Seminole,” she said. “Not just in their businesses, or the years after their retirement, when the navy have more time, but throughout their lives and careers. They are always looking to serve their families, community and country. It is not so much what they do as who they are.

“They are busy, no excuse people,” Lilo continued. “They open their hearts and their own wallets when they see a need that might not otherwise be met. They are selfless. They are warriors — defending life as it can be only to sustain the honor of Seminole and its homegrown values to pave the way for our children to experience a love of their community and each other by working together for the greater good.”

The first award of the evening went to Oh! Gelato Cafe, which was named Rookie Business of the Year. The award recognizes businesses that are less then 3 years old and is a rising star in the Seminole area.

Owned by Elana and Ron Davis, Oh! Gelato Cafe opened in July of last year and offers, in addition to its namesake, bubble tea, smoothies and açaí bowls.

“We are thrilled and surprised,” Elana Davis, who was unable to attend the ceremony, told the Beacon on Feb. 27. “We are a small little business and it’s been a fun ride so far in Seminole. We get to know people here.

“We’re a small mom-and-pop, not a chain,” she continued. “I really think people around here really embrace that.”

Seminole CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) nabbed the Community Contributor award, which pays tribute to organizations that make a difference in the lives of those around them.

“I just want to say thank you,” said organization president Ray Beliveau. “It is an honor to be here tonight and to receive this award. We really try to help the community.”

Kimmy Chandler, owner of FLUFF Animal Rescue, was named Boss of the Year, which recognizes individuals who routinely show consideration and support of staff, colleagues, and visitors to the business, as well as exhibits other qualities that exemplify good leadership and organizational abilities.

“I can’t believe it,” Chandler said. “I like to stay behind the scenes. I’m not an out-there kind of person. We work hard to keep our team together so that we can grow the rescue.

“It’s all about the dogs,” she said. “They are my boss.”

The Business of the Year award went to Seminole Title. Dennis DeLoach accepted the award.

“We just want to thank the community for this award and the judges,” DeLoach said. “Seminole, we thank you for your support throughout the years and please continue to make Seminole the finest community in Pinellas County.”

The Merit Award was established in 1979 by the Chamber and honors individuals or groups who have performed outstanding service in support of the organization.

This year’s Merit Award went to John Alfe of N and J Consultation Group, which is an insurance provider.

“I was very humbled when they told me I won,” Alfe, who was unable to attend the awards ceremony, told the Beacon on Feb. 27.

If you’re hoping to bet on the Super Bowl online from your couch in Florida, you’re out of luck.

Despite a compact between the Seminole Tribe and Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2021, sports betting is still not allowed in Florida.

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A lawsuit has stopped betting in the state. An appeals court heard arguments in December, and everyone is now awaiting a ruling.

Here’s what happened, according to reporting from News4JAX’s sister station in Orlando, WKMG.

In April 2021, Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe agreed to a 30-year deal called a compact. The tribe would be allowed to operate sports betting, as well as offer craps and roulette at its casinos.

To get around a 2018 voter-approved amendment that only authorized gambling in the state if it was approved by voters, the servers for the sports betting were supposed to be located on tribal land.

In return for agreeing to the compact, the state would get at least $2.5 billion over the first five years, and an estimated $20 billion over the 30 years of the deal.

The U.S. Department of the Interior, overseer of American Indian affairs, allowed the contract to go through under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which governs the framework for tribal gambling.

But nontribal gambling facilities in Florida, including the owners of Magic City Casino in Miami-Dade County, sued to stop the compact in federal court. They sued the Department of the Interior and Interior Secretary Debra Haaland.

A judge in November 2021 ruled with the plaintiffs. U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich said the Interior Department should have stopped the compact because it violated the IGRA, which says that state-sanctioned tribal gambling can only happen on tribal land.

In the ruling, the judge called the idea that sports betting was taking place on tribal land because the servers would be housed on tribal land “a fiction.”

“When a federal statute authorizes an activity only at specific locations, parties may not evade that limitation by ‘deeming’ their activity to occur where it, as a factual matter, does not,” Friedrich said.

The courts also denied the tribe’s request to keep the sports betting compact in place while the case moved through the court’s system, so sports betting was put on hold in Florida.

And that’s where sports betting has been in Florida ever since. The federal government appealed the lower court’s decision, and in December a three-judge panel in Washington, D.C. heard arguments.

During that hearing, an attorney for the Interior Department said the federal government has a duty to make sure the deal was consistent with the IGRA, but not that the deal complies with Florida state law.

An attorney for the plaintiffs, however, said that the government could not say the compact was in line with the IGRA if it did allow gambling to occur off tribal lands.

“If you are remotely tempted to accept their argument, I beg you, make it crystal clear that your order says this secretary’s approval does not in any way authorize the gambling that takes place off Indian land,” said attorney Hamish Hume.

Daniel Wallach, an attorney specializing in gaming law, spoke to News 6′s Justin Warmoth about Florida sports betting situation on “The Weekly” last September.

At the time, he had a bleak outlook on the chances of sports betting coming to Florida.

“The clearest path to sports betting in Florida is, in all likelihood, through the ballot initiative process,” Wallach said. “That seems to be the most realistic path forward for both retail and online sports betting, which means, as a practical matter, the first legal bet in Florida likely won’t be made until 2025.”

But after the December oral arguments, Wallach seemed a bit more optimistic, tweeting “After today’s oral argument, the notion of legal sports betting in Florida as early as 2023 may not be so far-fetched.”

However, Wallach cautioned it won’t be the end of the legal journey for the case though.

Wallach tweeted that he suspects a ruling to come in the next few months.

Copyright 2023 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida State Women’s Basketball freshman guard Ta’Niya Latson has been selected as one of five finalists for the 2023 Ann Meyers Drysdale Award, which is given to the nation’s best shooting guard. The five-member list was announced Tuesday afternoon by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association.

Named after the first player, male or female, named to an All-America Team in four straight college seasons, the annual award in its sixth year recognizes the top shooting guard in women’s NCAA Division I college basketball. To be considered for this prestigious award, candidates must exhibit the tenacity and scoring prowess of Class of 1993 Hall of Famer Ann Meyers.

Fans can support their favorite player by participating in Fan Voting, presented by Dell Technologies, starting Friday, March 3, on hoophallawards.com. The Fan Vote will count as one committee vote during the finalist selection process.

In March, the finalists will be presented to Meyers Drysdale and the Hall of Fame’s selection committee. The Selection Committee for the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award is composed of top women’s college basketball personnel including media members, head coaches, sports information directors and Hall of Famers.

The winner of the 2023 Meyers Drysdale Award will be presented on a to be determined date, along with the four other members of the Women’s Starting Five. Additional awards being presented include the Nancy Lieberman Award (Point Guard), Cheryl Miller Award (Small Forward), the Katrina McClain Award (Power Forward) and the Lisa Leslie Award (Center), in addition to the Men’s Starting Five.

Joining Latson on the list are Drexel’s Keishana Washington, Louisville’s Hailey Van Lith, Maryland’s Diamond Miller and South Carolina’s Zia Cooke.

Latson has earned national recognition for one of the most startling freshman seasons in recent memory in women’s basketball. The Miami, Fla., native established an ACC single-season record for points by a freshman, passing Diamond Deshields. She is the first ACC freshman ever to lead the league in scoring during the regular season, averaging 21.3 points per game.

Of the ACC’s 13 performances this season with 30+ points by an individual, Latson owns seven of them. Of the league’s eight 30-point games in conference play, Latson has four of them.

Previous winners of the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award are Christyn Williams, UConn (2022), Ashley Owusu, Maryland (2021), Aari McDonald, Arizona (2020), Asia Durr, Louisville (2019) and Victoria Vivians, Mississippi State (2018).

For more information on the 2023 Ann Meyers Drysdale Award and the latest updates, visit hoophallawards.com and follow @hoophall and #MeyersAward on Twitter and Instagram.

March

9-31 History Fort Lauderdale and Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s “Women Trailblazers: Champions of Change – Broward County” presented by UKG and sponsored by City & Shore PRIME, a photo exhibition honoring six women leaders of our community. A ticketed preview and recognition ceremony benefiting History Fort Lauderdale will take place on March 9 at 5:30 p.m. The exhibit, at Galleria Fort Lauderdale, is free and open during mall hours. 954-463-4431, historyfortlauderdale.org.

10 Leadership Broward Foundation’s annual Fun Lunch, featuring a luncheon, raffles and surprises. 11:30 a.m. at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. $100, members; $125, non-members. 954-767-8866, leadershipbroward.org.

11 The Unicorn Children’s Foundation Gala, held at The Boca Raton resort. Tickets start at $380. 561-620-9377, unicornchildrensfoundation.org.

11 SOS Children’s Villages Florida’s Steps for SOS 10th Anniversary 5K Run/Walk. 7 a.m. at FLA Live Arena, 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise. $25, runners; no fee for walkers. Stepsforsos.org.

13 Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s 56th Annual Golf Classic in Memory of Charles “Bebe” Rebozo. Registration starts at 10 a.m., and the scramble-style tournament begins with a shotgun start at noon, at Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club, Coral Gables. The event also includes course contests, raffles, lunch, an open bar and a dinner banquet, all included with the purchase of a foursome or sponsorship package. $2,400 per foursome; sponsorships available. 305-446-9910, bgcmia.org.

18 Friends of Jack & Jill Center host the 18th Annual Pediatrix Flip Flops on the Docks, a casual soirée overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway that features tropical beach décor, drinks, food, live music and live and virtual silent auctions. Proceeds benefit Jack & Jill Center’s mission to strengthen children and families through education, supportive programming and community engagement. 6:30 p.m. at Lauderdale Yacht Club, 1725 SE 12th St., Fort Lauderdale. $250. 954-463-8772, flipflopsonthedocks.com.

18 The Yoga Expo, North America’s largest yoga conference and trade show, featuring yoga classes, keynote speakers, workshops and a marketplace with over 100 vendors. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. $45. Theyogaexpo.org.

19 Rhythm by the River: A Festival Celebrating Black Voices, featuring live music, dance, drama and spoken-word poetry performances, as well as interactive events for the whole family. 2-6 p.m. at Esplanade Park, Fort Lauderdale. Free. Browardcenter.org.

25 Paul Anka brings his “Greatest Hits: His Way!” tour to Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $65. Myhrl.com.

31 The 27th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event, which includes tastings from South Florida restaurants, breweries and bakeries, live entertainment and live and silent auctions, to benefit the Ann Storck Center, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 6 p.m. at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. $125. Annstorckcenter.org/chefs2023.

April

1-2 Bonnet House Museum & Gardens 14th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival Presented by John Knox Village, a place to experience and purchase orchids, tropical plants, herbs, fruit trees, butterfly garden plants and more. The event also includes vendors and a lunch buffet on the veranda. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 900 N. Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale. $15, rain or shine; brunch, $100. Bonnethouse.org/event/international-orchid-garden-festival.

Save the Date . . .

April 15 Wine Spectator’s Grand Tour Florida, an evening of exceptional wines from the world’s best wine-growing regions. 6 p.m. at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Hollywood. Tickets start at $275. http://grandtour.winespectator.com.

April 21 Las Olas Wine & Food Festival, featuring the culinary talents of local chefs, international wineries showcasing 100+ wines, live music and more, benefiting the South Florida American Lung Association. 7:30-10:30 p.m. on Las Olas Boulevard between SE Sixth Avenue and SE 11th Avenue. Tickets, information https://lasolaswff.com/.

April 22 Stranahan House Museum’s annual Pineapple Jam, featuring cocktails, dinner and live music to benefit the Museum’s educational and historic preservation programs. 7 p.m. at Coral Ridge Yacht Club, 2800 Yacht Club Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. $175. 954-524-4736, stranahanhouse.org.

April 27 United Community Options of South Florida Bites & Spirits Event, featuring local restaurants serving their best tapas, spirits from Republic National Distributing Co., live entertainment, silent auctions and more. Benefits UCO’s mission serving 1,800 children and adults with developmental disabilities throughout South Florida. 6-9 p.m. at Tru Hilton Pompano Beach Pier, 200 N. Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach. All proceeds benefit UCO of South Florida. Contact David Perez at 954-218-6748 or by email at davidperez@uco-ucpsfl.org.

April 29-30 The 2023 Fort Lauderdale Air Show, headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Times vary. Various ticket packages are available for those who want VIP and premium viewing. Fortlauderdaleairshow.com.

April 29-30 Boca Bacchanal, presented by the Boca Raton Historical Society. Vintner dinners take place at private residences, and the Grand Tasting takes place at The Boca Raton resort. Times and prices vary. 561-395-6766, bocabacchanal.com.

May 7 The 12th Annual UKG Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K in Fort Lauderdale. Thousands of walkers and runners are expected to take part in the event, which has raised more than $3.5 million over the years for Mothers Against Drunk Driving. 7:30 a.m. at Southeast First Avenue and Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit www.walklikemadd.org/fortlauderdale.

Editor’s note: Please confirm events prior to attending.