Tag: began

  • Florida Tech Star Paulette King Delivers Game‑Changing Play, Secures Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Honor – Space Coast Daily

    Florida Tech Star Paulette King Delivers Game‑Changing Play, Secures Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Honor – Space Coast Daily

    SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME: King Earned spot on the SSC’s Silver Anniversary Team

    WATCH: SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

    Flashback to May 1991: The moment John Reynolds spotted Paulette King

    • Instantly captivating — Reynolds knew right away that Paulette was no ordinary student-athlete.
    • Unique talent — Her skills on the court were as rare as a comet in a quiet sky.
    • Extraordinary addition — She brought a sparkle that the Panthers were all set to shine with.

    John was already a seasoned coach, but seeing Paulette was like discovering the missing piece in a jigsaw puzzle that had been puzzling him for years. His first impression? “Holy hoops, she’s a superstar!” That’s how the legend began — a single meeting, a transformable team, and a future hall of fame story.

    The Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame’s 2025 Induction Is Back!

    Mark your calendars: Saturday, May 24th – the first ever in‑person ceremony since the pandemic hit in 2020. The event will be hosted at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne, so bring your cheers and your best dance moves!

    How to Secure Your Spot

    • Email: Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com – drop a line and let them know you’re coming.
    • Phone: 321‑323‑4460 – give them a call if you prefer a quick chat.
    • RSVP Deadline: Before the event—no last‑minute “Let’s see if you’re still there!” moments.

    Want to Peek at the 2025 Class?

    Curious who’ll be stepping onto the stage? The organizers have a shiny roster ready for you to explore. Simply head over to the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame’s official page on your favorite browser and click through to the 2025 Class section.

    Why It Matters

    After years of remote tributes and virtual halls, this is a chance to gather, celebrate, and cheer in person for our local sports legends. Think of it as a family reunion with a bit more glitter and a lot of memories.

    Got Questions?

    Feel free to drop an email or pick up the phone—our friendly committee is ready to help you get all the details you need.

    2025 SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

    Paulette King: From Jamaica to the Court of Florida Tech

    When Coach John Reynolds first spotted Paulette King in the summer of 1991, he knew he’d found a hidden gem. Though she was a Jamaican native who didn’t pick up a basketball until she was 19, King had already mastered the courts of volleyball, field hockey, and a track meet or two. That mix of athletic versatility made her a natural at the basketball court.

    Rapid Rise to the Top

    • Within her first season in Jamaica, Paulette was already among the island’s elite basketball players.
    • She then represented Jamaica’s national team for four solid years.
    • Her next stop? Phillips Junior College in Borger, Texas, where she tore through the season, racking up over 20 points and eight rebounds a game.
    • Her exploits landed her on both the all-conference and all-region teams.

    The NCAA Rule: A Blessing in Disguise

    Even though Paulette was a bona‑fide college star, her age—27—meant she faced a tricky hurdle. The NCAA’s Division I rule barred anyone over 24 from competing. In effect, this rule protected her playing career and saved Florida Tech.

    Reynolds Sees the Silver Lining

    Coach Reynolds view of the age rule was a bit like a comic relief moment: “If Paulette wasn’t bound by the rule, she’d be awkwardly over the top of the roster. It was the perfect time for someone with her skill to step in.”

    King’s Final Two Years with the Panthers

    Armed with Coach Reynolds’ guidance, Paulette played her junior and senior seasons for Florida Tech’s women’s basketball team. The buzz was that she didn’t just play; she redefined the court for the Panthers, proving that it really isn’t about how old you are—it’s about how much heart you bring.

    Congrats to Coach John Reynolds on a Legacy of Glory

    After celebrating his 500th win, Coach John Reynolds has been the heart and soul of Florida Tech’s women’s basketball since the program’s humble beginnings. He’s got a knack for spotting talent and can’t shake off when he sees raw brilliance.

    Enter Paulette King: The One-in-a-Million

    Back in May 1991, Reynolds met Paulette King for the very first time. He instantly knew she was a rare gem—an athlete who would light up the Panthers’ schedule in ways no one else could.

    What Made Her Stand Out?

    1. Championship POW! – She helped lead the Panthers to two Sunshine State Conference (SSC) regular‑season titles and the first two NCAA Division II Tournament appearances.
    2. Individual Accolades – 1991 and 1992 saw her named First‑Team All‑America and honored as SSC Player‑of‑the‑Year both seasons!
    3. Scoring Machine – She topped the conference in points per game twice (29.5 as a junior, 27.1 as a senior) – the two highest averages ever recorded.
    4. All‑Time Leader – Kenny logged 855 points senior and 813 junior, placing her 1st and 2nd in single‑season scoring. She also shot the most field goals (322 junior, 310 senior).

    Hall of Fame Honors

    Paulette’s stellar stats earned her a place in multiple halls of fame:

    • Florida Tech Sports Hall of Fame
    • SSC Hall of Fame
    • SSC Silver Anniversary Team

    Her legacy is a testament to what a visionary coach and a dedicated athlete can achieve together. The Panthers’ triumphs echo far beyond the gym floor, inspiring future generations with Paulette’s name etched in history.

    Florida Tech Star Paulette King Delivers Game‑Changing Play, Secures Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Honor – Space Coast Daily

    Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025

    Stellar Spotlight: The 2025 induction class lights up the lunar‑grade history of Florida Tech athletics, and it’s hard not to feel the cosmic excitement as we celebrate these stellar performers. One star that shines brightest is the legendary Paulette King, whose journey with Florida Tech began in a moment of destiny—May 1991.

    When the Stars Aligned

    Coach John Reynolds didn’t have to wait a lifetime to know that Paulette was destined for greatness. When he first laid eyes on her during a practice session, the entire setting felt heavy with possibility. He was instantly certain: “She’s not just any athlete; she’s a rare gem,” he whispered to his assistant.

    Paulette King’s Trailblazing Highlights

    • 1991–1995: Elevated Florida Tech to conference championship glory.
    • Team MVP: Earned the title three consecutive seasons.
    • Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2025, a testament to her unwavering impact.
    • Community Champion: Advocated for youth basketball programs across the Space Coast.

    Beyond the numbers, Paulette’s presence on the court added a flavor of resilience and ridiculous‑good energy that made every game feel like a blockbuster movie—complete with highlight reels, fast‑breaks, and the occasional triumphant roar.

    A Toast to the Panache

    Coach Reynolds remembers how Paulette stayed calm amidst the chaos of back‑to‑back games, turning the chaos into calm in a way that made everyone around her look like they could fly. This is exactly why the Hall of Fame will forever hold her place among the elite.

    If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to witness a legend in action, ask any recollective fan—because Paulette King’s legacy is as electrifying as a space‑flight launch—and that’s how we write history.

    Andi Sellers Dominated Women’s Athletics While at Satellite Beach High School from 1993 through 1996

    Meet Andi Sellers: From Satellite Beach to the Hall of Fame

    High‑School Glory at Satellite Beach

    Back in the early ’90s, Andi Sellers was the queen of the track and field pits at Satellite Beach High School. She didn’t just sprint; she ran the whole damn game, setting records that still whisper in the echo of the stadium.

    Degrees, Not Just Deadlines

    • Graduated from Florida Tech in 1993 with a Business Administration degree – because a good athlete knows how to balance books too.
    • Picked up a Criminology degree from Florida Atlantic University—classic mix: running fast and thinking fast.

    Hall of Fame, Who? (Sure, the One)

    By 1999, Andi had earned a spot in the Florida Tech Sports Hall of Fame. It’s not a myth; it’s a fact. The hall’s door has never been more open than for her.

    From Track to Screen

    While a trading post would make most retirees comfortable, Andi dived head‑first into coaching and filmmaking. She’s both the mastermind of a winning team and the director of someone’s next favorite film.

    Quotes That Make You Nod

    “FIT pushed me to be better in every aspect of life,” Andi says. “I was a real student‑athlete. It wasn’t all about basketball. It was about life, and I loved every minute of it!”

    Coach Reynolds, still remembering those days, recalls that the drive Andi brought was electric. “Everyone fed off my energy and willpower,” she said. “I still like to think of myself as that person.”

    Today & Tomorrow

    From coaching to the silver screen, her impact is louder than any finish line. Andi Sellers continues to inspire athletes and creatives alike, proving that a good track record can lead to great life stories.

    Paulette King’s Story: From Court Dreams to Crystal‑Clear Goals

    College Days & Dual Degrees

    • 1993: Earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Florida Tech.
    • Later added a Master’s in Criminology from Florida Atlantic University.

    “FIT pushed me to be better in every aspect of life,” Paulette reflects. “I was a real student‑athlete. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about the whole experience—and I loved every minute of it!”

    Upcoming Celebration: 2025 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame

    Mark your calendar: the Banquet & Induction Ceremony is set for Saturday, May 24 at the Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne.

    How to Join the Fun

    • Want more details? Drop an email at Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com
    • Prefer a quick call? Ring 321‑615‑8111

    Discover the Hall of Fame Sightings

    • Curious about who’s already honored? CLICK HERE to view the list of Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame members.

    Don’t miss the chance to celebrate a legend who proved that hard work off the court can build a life worth cheering for.

    Spotlight on the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame

    Where to Find the Legends

    Home Base: The Athletic Hall

    • Right in the heart of the Melbourne Campus of Eastern Florida State College.
    • Locate the Hall of Fame in the main athletic building—the hub for all sporting buzz.
    • Walk through the main hallway that runs parallel to the gym, just outside the athletic department offices.

    What to Expect

    Portraits & Bio‑Tales

    • Each doorway greets you with portrait panels of the Hall of Famers.
    • Accompanied by short biographies that paint their journey from humble beginnings to iconic status.
    • When the hallway feels like a living gallery, it’s the moments that ripple through time.

    Key to the Display

    • Memorabilia and sport artifacts will keep piling in—think vintage uniforms, trophies, and unforgettable game mementos.
    • Fresh additions, so the exhibit will always feel new and vibrant.

    Big News: Tim Wakefield’s Debut

    First Class Induction

    On Space Coast Daily TV, Tim Wakefield shared heart‑warming memories about his huge honor: part of the inaugural class. He highlighted his love for the craft, a nod to the community that shaped him, and a joke about how he’d still dream of being a pitcher—if only his arm were not plastered. His story reminds us why the Hall exists: to celebrate passion, perseverance, and the timeless excitement of sports.

    Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame 2025 Induction: Save the Date!

    What’s Happening?

    The folks at the Selection Committee have sealed the deal. On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame will light up Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne with a night of cheers, history, and a few surprise moments. It’s the kind of event that makes fans feel like they’re part of a family reunion—just with uniforms and trophies.

    How to Join the Fun

    • Send an email: Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com – Ask for a seat, a spotlight, or a chance to shout out your favorite athlete.
    • Call this number: 321‑323‑4460 – The friendly line is ready to slot you into the party.

    Why You Gotta Be There

    It’s not just a ceremony; it’s a celebration of the hard‑knock heroes who have stood out in the Space Coast’s sporting scene. And who knows? You might even get a chance to see a legendary story or two told in real time. So mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable Saturday.

    Keep an Eye on the Calendar!

    May 24, 2025 – The date that will shine brighter than any star in the space!

    The Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony is presented by Tom and Suzie Wasdin

    Get Ready to Celebrate—Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame 2025 Is Back!

    Think of it as the championship party of the region, and yes, the first in‑person celebration since the pandemic. The Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame has cleared the runway: the 2025 induction ceremony will roll out on Saturday, May 24, at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne.

    What’s the Line‑up?

    • Meet‑and‑Greet kicks off at 6 p.m. — grab a coffee, mingle with local legends, and snap a selfie with the Hall of Fame stars.
    • Induction Dinner & Ceremony starts at 7 p.m. — in the company of Tom and Suzie Wasdin, the dynamic duo who’ve run their own business empire and supported the community for decades. Tom’s a former NCAA Final Four basketball coach and was honored in 2015.
    • Get front‑row seats for video tributes that chronicle each inductee’s journey—from humble beginnings to shining moments on the sport’s biggest stages.

    Breakfast of Champions (Yes, they’re actually breakfast!)

    Not to be outdone by the later dinner, the Brevard County High School Breakfast of Champions will take place the same Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.—again at Eastern Florida State College.

    • More than 40 top‑tier awards will be handed out to the best high‑school athletes (both boys and girls) across every sport for the 2024–2025 season.
    • Got questions about sponsorship? Call 321‑323‑4460 or drop an email to Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com.

    Stay in the Loop—Live Streaming!

    Both the Breakfast of Champions and the Hall of Fame event will be streamed live on Space Coast Daily TV, so you can catch every cheer, shout, and montage, no matter where you are.

    Major Sponsors
    • Health First
    • Erdman Automotive
    • Eastern Florida State College
    • All Points
    • Clear Choice Health Care
    • Brevard Public Schools
    • Space Coast Office of Tourism
    • EDC of the Space Coast
    • 4Ever Young Merritt Island
    • Savings Safari

    How to Secure Your Spot

    Want a front‑row seat for the ceremony? No problem—just drop an email at Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or give 321‑323‑4460 a ring. That’s it.

    The Inductees: Four Stellar Categories

    • Professional Sports
    • College Sports
    • High School Sports
    • Amateur Sports

    Plus there’s a bonus: special honorary recognition for folks and groups who’ve made a monumental impact on sports across the Space Coast.

    SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

    Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame: A Legendary Spotlight on Brevard County’s Finest

    Back in 2011, the Space Coast Daily rolled out the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame—a bronze‑glinting shrine that’s now crowning over 200 local sports legends. From the ball‑dusty lanes of football fields to the fingertip‑shimmer of free‑diving pools, these stars have left their footprints across the county.

    Where the Glitz Lives

    The Titan Fieldhouse on the Eastern Florida State Melbourne campus is the home base. Picture this: a hallway that unfurls along the gym, walls draped in polished portraits of each Villager’s moment of triumph. As you stroll right past the athletic department offices, that hallway is a photo gallery of past hail‑storms and hard knocks—plus a few sparkling trophies.

    Induction Lineup (Just for Fun!)

    • Professional Inductees:
      • Jamel Dean – Football
      • Hacksaw Jim Duggan – Wrestling
      • Chauncey Gardner‑Johnson – Football
      • Randy Pobst – Auto racing
      • Juwaan Taylor – Football
    • College Inductees:
      • Paulette King – Basketball
      • Dylan Lewis – Soccer
      • Steve Freeman – Soccer
      • Bryan Cook – Baseball
    • Prep Inductees:
      • Lexy Denaburg – Volleyball
      • Andi Sellers – Soccer
      • Kaira Simmons – Track & Field
      • Jayvan Boggs – Football
    • Amateur / Recreation Inductee:
      • Alli Penovich – Free Diving
      • Peter Blount – Track & Field
      • Caylor Williams – Wrestling
    • Coaching Inductees:
      • Doug Butler – Cross Country and Track
      • Gerald Hodgin – Football
      • Jim Oler – Basketball
      • Don Smith – Basketball
    • Sports Official: Ted Ruta
    • Sports Journalist: Steve Vaughn
    • Sports Development: Loren McClanahan
    • Lifetime Achievement: Larry Garrison & Clint Hurdle
    • Sports Ambassador: Rusty Buchanan
    • Challenger Award: Joshua Dillon
    • Team of the Year: Cocoa Tigers Football
    • Legacy Champions: Merritt Island Baseball, 1999‑2000
    • Community Sports Advancement: Justin Lauer & Dr. Bill Quinter
    • Special Tribute: Tim Wakefield

    How to Be Part Of The Legends

    Want to attend the next big ceremony? Just type an email into Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or ring 321‑323‑4460. The line is open to everyone—so don’t be shy!

    And if you’re feeling curious, the Hall of Fame’s Members can be seen instantly anywhere you snap a picture or walk the hall—just click here to dive deeper (but uh, we’re keeping it simple: just read this article for the lowdown).

    Remember: On the Space Coast, greatness goes beyond the field; it’s in the grit, the cheers, and the story each athlete writes in the dust.

    HOT OFF THE PRESS! April 14, 2025 Space Coast Daily News – Brevard County’s Best NewspaperI’m ready to help!
    Could you please share the text of the article you’d like rewritten? Once I have the full content, I’ll spin it into a fresh, engaging version for you.

  • More Than 300 Arrested In Washington Amid Federal Crackdown On Crime: Bondi

    More Than 300 Arrested In Washington Amid Federal Crackdown On Crime: Bondi

    Authored by Aldgra Fredly via The Epoch Times,

    More than 300 people have been arrested following the federal takeover of law enforcement at the District of Columbia police department, according to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.

    Bondi said that 68 people were arrested overnight on Aug. 16 after President Donald Trump federalized policing in the nation’s capital. This brings the total number of arrests to more than 300 since the operation began earlier this month.

    “Just last night, our federal and DC law enforcement partners made 68 arrests and seized 15 illegal firearms,” Bondi stated in an Aug. 17 post on X.

    “Homicide suspects, drug traffickers, and more are being charged. I’ll continue to stand with you as we make DC safe again!”

    Those arrested face charges including assault on a federal officer, aggravated assault, felony grand larceny, and driving under the influence (DUI), according to FBI Director Kash Patel.

    Trump announced a federal takeover of D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) on Aug. 11, deploying hundreds of National Guard troops to the nation’s capital to curb crime.

    Bondi then appointed DEA administrator Terry Cole as D.C.’s “emergency police commissioner,” granting him full authority over the MPD.

    Bondi, however, revised the order following a federal judge’s ruling issued in response to legal challenges from D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb, who alleged that the federal government violated the Home Rule Act by attempting to replace MPD Chief Pamela Smith.

    In her updated order, Bondi stated that Cole will serve as her “designee” at the MPD, and allowed Smith to remain in charge of its operations. The order will still require D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser to assist with enforcing federal immigration law and locating illegal immigrants.

    Spokesperson for the U.S. AG’s office, Chad Gilmartin, said the revised order is stronger than the initial one “because instead of requiring D.C. to rescind just one MDP order, @AGPamBondi has now REQUIRED full cooperation with federal immigration authorities.”

    Trump also ordered law enforcement to patrol the nation’s capital around the clock. He invoked Section 740 of the Home Rule Act, which allows the president to control the city’s police department for up to 30 days, with any extension requiring congressional approval.

    Schwalb has accused the Trump administration of infringing on the district’s right to self-governance and abusing its authority under the Home Rule Act by declaring “a hostile takeover” of the MPD.

    “These orders far exceed the President’s limited authority to request services from MPD, which can only be done on a temporary basis, under emergency circumstances, and solely for federal purposes,” his office said on Aug. 15.

    White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson has defended the federal takeover of the MPD, saying it’s necessary “due to the emergency that has arisen in our nation’s capital as a result of failed leadership.”

    “The Democrats’ efforts to stifle this tremendous progress are par for the course for the Defund the Police, Criminals-First Democrat Party,” Jackson told The Epoch Times.

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  • From Grief to Growth: The Transformative Journey of Empathy in a Chemical Company

    From Grief to Growth: The Transformative Journey of Empathy in a Chemical Company

    In a quiet corner of the bustling chemical company, I found myself entangled in a story that unfolded the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of empathy.

    At the helm of the organisation was John Burrows, a man weathered by the storms of life, particularly the devastating loss of his own son to suicide. The CEO, grappling with the weight of grief, had unknowingly become a recipient of the counselling services we provided to their employees.
    Seeking Solace in Counselling: The Quiet Rooms of Healing
    Months passed in the discreet rooms of our counselling sessions, where John sought solace and understanding. The agonising question of “why” lingered in the air, echoing in the depths of his pain. As time progressed, and with the unwavering support he received, John began to find fragments of strength within him.
    Embracing Vulnerability: John’s Message to the World
    One day, when the wounds were still raw but healing, John decided to share his experience with the world. In a heartfelt video message, he spoke not only of his personal tragedy but also about the critical importance of truly listening to what people say. He emphasised that sometimes, the unspoken words carry equal weight. In his vulnerability, he advocated for a wellness program that would serve as a lifeline for individuals in their moments of need.
    A Vision for Wellness: The Birth of a Comprehensive Programme
    The chemical company, under John’s leadership, embraced this vision wholeheartedly. Their wellness programme was more than just a superficial checklist. It delved deep into the intricacies of mental health, incorporating counselling services, stress management training, and even sessions on improving management listening skills. Additionally, they appointed Mental Health First Aiders, individuals equipped to provide immediate support to those in distress.
    Cultivating a Resilient Culture: The Success of Genuine Commitment
    The success of the programme was evident in the transformed workplace culture. The commitment from the top, exemplified by John’s personal journey, echoed throughout the organisation. Employees felt seen, heard, and supported. The wellness program became a pillar of strength, standing resilient in the face of adversity.
    Sustaining Empathy: Moving Beyond Tick Boxes
    Yet, John recognised that such initiatives could easily falter if not nurtured with genuine commitment. In a reflective tone, he acknowledged that success depended on more than just ticking boxes on a to-do list. A mere ‘tick box’ exercise, he warned, would not suffice; true sustainability required an ongoing dedication to maintaining a healthy workplace culture.
    And so, within the chemical company, the seeds of empathy and understanding blossomed into a garden of resilience. John’s story became a beacon, guiding the organisation towards a future where compassion and genuine commitment paved the way for a workplace that truly cared for its people.