DeSantis Unveils America 250 Plans

Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference in Vero Beach on Friday to discuss celebrations across the state for America’s 250th anniversary, including making Feb. 16, which is President’s Day, an official state holiday this year.

“Our state employees will be able to have the day off, which I know they’re not going to complain about,” DeSantis said.

He also announced free admission to state-owned public lands—including state parks, wildlife management areas, and Department of State historical properties—from Feb. 12 to 16.

In addition, a series of events will be held across the state to honor George Washington’s birthday. Find the full list of America 250 celebrations here.

Driver’s License Exams to be English Only

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) announced on Friday that, starting Feb. 6, the state’s driver’s license knowledge and skills tests will only be administered in English and without an interpreter.

The change applies to all driver’s license classifications. Previously, non-commercial license exams had been available in multiple languages, and commercial tests were given in English and Spanish.

“FLHSMV remains committed to ensuring safe roadways for all Floridians and visitors by promoting clear communication, understanding of traffic laws, and responsible driving behavior,” the department said in a statement.

FWC Collecting Cold-stunned Iguanas

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Friday issued an executive order temporarily allowing people to remove live, cold-stunned green iguanas without a permit.

“Green iguanas are an invasive species in Florida and have adverse impacts on the state’s environment and economy,” the FWC said.

FWC staff will accept cold-stunned iguanas collected by the public today and tomorrow, with drop-off locations in Marathon, Sunrise, Tequesta, Fort Myers, and Lakeland.

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➤ Statewide: Gas prices in Florida reached an average of $2.79 per gallon of regular fuel on Monday, up from the previous week’s price of $2.70 per gallon. (More)

➤ Seminole County: A couple is suing the Fertility Center of Orlando after the wife gave birth to a daughter of a different ethnicity following an in vitro fertilization procedure. (Details)

➤ Pembroke Park: Mayor Geoffrey Jacobs is now the subject of a homestead fraud investigation centered around a home he owns in Fort Pierce, more than 100 miles from Pembroke Park. (More)

➤ Escambia County: Residents say Chimes Way Park in Brent, home to a popular skate park, has seen a rise in litter and human waste as the area’s homeless population grows. (More)

➤ Collier County: At least two measles cases were reported at Ave Maria University, and officials say testing is available on campus. (More)

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➤ UCF came up with a huge upset win yesterday, defeating No. 11 Texas Tech thanks to 21 second-chance points, leading to an 88-80 win. (More)

➤ The Tampa Bay Lightning will face the Boston Bruins in the Lightning’s first-ever outdoor game for the 2026 NHL Stadium Series today at 6:30 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium. (More)

➤ Orlando Magic stars Wendell Carter Jr. and Jalen Suggs teamed up for this smooth pass and dunk during the team’s 130-120 Friday victory over the Toronto Raptors. (Watch Video)

Yesterday’s Results: NBA | NHL | NCAAM | NCAAW | Soccer | PGA | LPGA | Tennis 

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➤ Major League Baseball hall-of-famer David “Big Papi” Ortiz launched Ozama, a premium rum inspired by his Dominican roots, at Level 6 in Miami this week. (See Video)

➤ The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens will debut its new entrance and manatee exhibit, part of a $52 million renovation of the zoo, on March 6. (See Photo)

➤ A black bear strolling through a front yard interrupted a Gulf Breeze man’s commute to work recently. (See Video)

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Do you plan on watching the Winter Olympics?

1. Yes
2. No

Saturday’s Results:

Have you ever driven over 100 mph?

1. Yes: 59%
2. No: 41%

Which famous guitarist from Florida, born on Feb. 1, 1950, played with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers?

Show me the answer