Free Republic

The SS United States is facing one final hurdle before the historic ocean liner can be sunk and turned into an artificial reef off Florida. Officials in Okaloosa County, who own the vessel, say they are still waiting for sign-off from the US Army Corps of Engineers, with the federal delay keeping the ship in Mobile, Alabama, for now. County commissioners have approved another $1.2m for the project, including $944,000 to keep the vessel docked in Mobile if necessary. The remaining funding covers towing, deployment and regulatory costs. The 990ft liner, once the fastest passenger ship in the world, arrived...

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A 17-year-old boy from the Grand Rapids area died after falling from a balcony while on spring break in Florida, authorities say. In a letter to the school’s community, Forest Hills Eastern High School Principal Amy Pallo said senior Anthony Holman died. “Anthony was someone that everyone loved. He had an infectious smile, warm and gentle spirit, and was so kind to everyone. It feels impossible to comprehend a loss like this,” Pallo wrote. Pallo said the school has counselors available for students. “Our sincere prayers go out to the family and friends of the...