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Is artificial intelligence combat ready? – Washington Technology

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Human soldiers will increasingly share the battlespace with a range of robotic, autonomous, and artificial intelligence-enabled agents. Machine intelligence has the potential to be a decisive factor in future conflicts that the U.S. may face.

The pace of change will be faster than anything seen in many decades, driven by the advances in commercial AI technology and the pressure of a near-peer with formidable technological capabilities.

But are AI and machine learning combat-ready? Or, more precisely, is our military prepared to incorporate machine intelligence into combat effectively?

Creating an AI-Ready Force

The stakes of effective collaboration between AI and combatants are profound.

Human-machine teaming has the potential to reduce casualties dramatically by substituting robots and autonomous drones for human beings in the highest-risk front-line deployments.

It can dramatically enhance situational awareness by rapidly synthesizing data streams across multiple domains to generate a unified view of the battlespace. And it can overwhelm enemy defenses with the swarming of autonomous drones.

In our work with several of the Defense Department research labs working at the cutting edge of incorporating AI and machine learning into combat environments, we have seen that this technology has the potential to be a force multiplier on par with air power.

However, several technological and institutional obstacles must be overcome before AI agents can be widely deployed into combat environments.

Safety and Reliability

The most frequent concern about AI agents and uncrewed systems is whether they can be trusted to take actions with potentially lethal consequences. AI agents have an undeniable speed advantage in processing massive amounts of data to recognize targets of interest. However, there is an inherent tension between conducting war at machine speed and retaining accountability for the use of lethal force.

It only takes one incident of AI weapons systems subjecting their human counterparts to friendly fire to undermine the confidence of warfighters in this technology. Effective human-machine teaming is only possible when machines have earned the trust of their human allies.

Adapting Military Doctrine to AI Combatants

Uncrewed systems are being rapidly developed that will augment existing forces across multiple domains. Many of these systems incorporate AI at the edge to control navigation, surveillance, targeting, and weapons systems.

However, existing military doctrine and tactics have been optimized for a primarily human force. There is a temptation to view AI-enabled weapons as a new tool to be incorporated into existing combat approaches. But doctrine will be transformed by innovations such as the swarming of hundreds or thousands of disposable, intelligent drones capable of overwhelming strategic platforms.

Force structures may need to be reconfigured on the fly to deliver drones where there is the greatest potential impact. Human-centric command and control concepts will need to be modified to accommodate machines and build warfighter trust.

As autonomous agents proliferate and become more powerful, the battlespace will become more expansive, more transparent, and move exponentially faster. The decision on how and if to incorporate AI into the operational kill chain has profound ethical consequences.

An even more significant challenge will be how to balance the pace of action on the AI-enabled battlefield with the limits of human cognition. What are the tradeoffs between ceding a first-strike advantage measured in milliseconds with the loss of human oversight? The outcome of future conflicts may hinge on such questions.

Insatiable Hunger for Data

AI systems are notoriously data-hungry. There is not, and fortunately never will be, enough live operational data from live military conflicts to adequately train AI models to the point where they could be deployed on the battlefield. For this reason, simulations are essential to develop and test AI agents, and they require thousands or even millions of iterations using modern machine learning techniques.

The DoD has existing high-fidelity simulations, such as Joint Semi-Automated Forces (JSAF), but they run essentially in real-time. To unlock the full potential of AI-enabled warfare requires developing simulations with sufficient fidelity to accurately model potential outcomes but compatible with the speed requirements of digital agents.

Integration and Training

AI-enabled mission planning has the potential to vastly expand the situational awareness of combatants and generate novel multi-domain operation alternatives to overwhelm the enemy. Just as importantly, AI can anticipate and evaluate thousands of courses of action that the enemy might employ and suggest countermeasures in real time.

One reason Americas military is so effective is a relentless focus on training. But warfighters are unlikely to embrace tactical directives emanating from an unfamiliar black box when their lives hang in the balance.

As autonomous platforms move from research labs to the field, intensive warfighter training will be essential to create a cohesive, unified human-machine team. To be effective, AI course-of-action agents must be designed to align with existing mission planning practices.

By integrating such AI agents with the training for mission planning, we can build confidence among users while refining the algorithms using the principles of warfighter-centric design.

Making Human-Machine Teaming a Reality

While underlying AI technology has grown exponentially more powerful in the past few years, addressing the challenges posed by human-machine teaming will determine how rapidly these technologies can translate into practical military advantage.

From the level of the squad all the way to the joint command, it is essential that we test the limits of this technology and establish the confidence of decision-makers in its capabilities.

There are several vital initiatives the DoD should consider to accelerate this process.

Embrace the Chaos of War

Building trust in AI agents is the most essential step to effective human-machine teaming. Warfighters will rightly have a low level of confidence in systems that have only been tested under controlled laboratory conditions. The best experiments and training exercises replicate the chaos of war, including unpredictable events, jamming of communications and positioning systems, and mid-course changes to the course of action.

Human warfighters should be encouraged to push autonomous systems and AI agents to the breaking point to see how they perform under adverse conditions. This will result in iterative design improvements and build the confidence that these agents can contribute to mission success.

A tremendous strength of the U.S. military is the flexible command structure that empowers warfighters down to the squad level to rapidly adapt to changing conditions on the ground. AI systems have the potential to provide these units with a far more comprehensive view of the battlespace and generate tactical alternatives. But to be effective in wartime conditions, AI agents must be resilient enough to function under conditions of degraded communications and understand the overall intent of the mission.

Apply AI to Defense Acquisition Process

The rapid evolution of underlying AI and autonomous technologies means that traditional procurement processes developed for large cold-war platforms are doomed to fail. As an example, swarming tactics are only effective when using hundreds or thousands of individual systems capable of intelligent, coordinated action in a dynamic battlespace.

Acquiring such devices at scale will require leveraging a broad supplier base, moving rapidly down the cost curve, and enabling frequent open standards updates. Too often, we have seen weapons vendors using incompatible, proprietary communications standards that render systems unable to share data, much less engage in coordinated, intelligent maneuvers. One solution is to apply AI to revolutionize the acquisition process.

By creating a virtual environment to test systems designs, DoD customers can verify operational concepts and interoperability before a single device is acquired. This will help to reduce waste, promote shared knowledge across the services, and create a more level playing field for the supplier base.

Build Bridges from Labs to Deployment

While a tremendous amount of important work has been done by organizations such as the Navy Research Lab, the Army Research Lab, the Air Force Research Lab, and DARPA, the success of AI-enabled warfare will ultimately be determined by moving this technology from the laboratories and out into the commands. Human-machine teaming will be critical to the success of these efforts.

Just as important, the teaching of military doctrine at the service academies needs to be continuously updated as the technology frontier advances. Incorporating intelligent agents into practical military missions requires both profound changes in doctrine and reallocation of resources.

Military commanders are unlikely to be dazzled by bright and shiny objects unless they see tangible benefits to deploying them. By starting with some easy wins, such as the enhancement of ISR capabilities and automation of logistics and maintenance, we can build early bridges that will instill confidence in the value of AI agents and autonomous systems.

Educating commands about the potential of human-machine teaming to enhance mission performance and then developing roadmaps to the highest potential applications will be essential. Commanders need to be comfortable with the parameters of human-in-the-loop and human-on-the-loop systems as they navigate how much autonomy to grant to AI-at-the-edge weapons systems. Retaining auditability as decision cycles accelerate will be critical to ensuring effective oversight of system development and evolving doctrine.

Summary

Rapid developments in AI and autonomous weapons systems have simultaneously accelerated and destabilized the ongoing quest for military superiority and effective deterrence. The United States has responded to this threat with a range of policies restricting the transfer of underlying technologies. However, the outcome of this competition will depend on the ability to convincingly transfer AI-enabled warfare from research labs to potential theaters of conflict.

Effective human-machine teaming will be critical to make the transition to a joint force that leverages the best capabilities of human warfighters and AI to ensure domination of the battlespace and deter adventurism by foreign actors.

Mike Colony leads Sercos Machine Learning Group, which has helped to support several Department of Defense clients in the area of AI and machine learning, including the Office of Naval Research, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the U.S. Marine Corps, the Electronic Warfare and Countermeasures Office, and others.

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Is artificial intelligence combat ready? - Washington Technology

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Victim’s brother arrested in connection with deadly shooting – WCVB Boston

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State and federal law enforcement in Maine on Tuesday announced the arrest of a Massachusetts man who was wanted in connection with the shooting that killed his brother in Brockton on Easter morning. Jeremiah Abreu, 20, of Brockton, was arrested at 2:30 p.m. after leaving a home in Lewiston, Maine, according to the office of Plymouth District Attorney Tim Cruz. The arrest warrant for a charge of murder was executed by members of the U.S. Marshals Service and Maine State Police.The Lewiston Police Department said Abreu was taken into custody following a coordinated traffic stop. Abreu was transported to the Androscoggin County Jail, where he will await extradition.Abreu's brother, Sedrick Abreu, 27, was found with a gunshot wound to the chest inside a home at 36 Hoover Ave. in Brockton at 2:17 a.m. on Sunday. He was taken to Good Samaritan Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead of his injuries.Two other suspects, Sirick Amado, 24, and Antonio Dejesus, 26, were already arrested and charged with accessory to homicide. Amado and Dejesus were arraigned Monday in Brockton District Court.During the arraignment, prosecutors said surveillance video shows Amado give a gun to Jeremiah Abreu before Abreu went inside the Hoover Avenue home."At that time is when officers believe that Mr. Abreu shot and killed his brother," Assistant District Attorney Kristina Zanini said in court.Prosecutors also said surveillance video shows Abreu exit the home and give the gun to Dejesus, who then placed an item in the back of an SUV. Attorneys representing Amado and Dejesus said the surveillance video does not definitively show what happened, and that investigators did not find a gun when they searched the SUV.Amado and Dejesus are being held without bail until a dangerousness hearing, which is scheduled for Thursday.Lewiston police also said they arrested 22-year-old Dominic Peterson, also of Brockton, Massachusetts, during the coordinated traffic stop.According to Lewiston police, Peterson was in the vehicle that Jeremiah Abreu was traveling in Tuesday and he refused to identify himself.Police said Peterson was found to be in possession of a firearm and was taken to the Lewiston Police Station, where he was identified with the use of fingerprint analysis.Lewiston police said Peterson was wanted on numerous warrants out of Massachusetts, including assault and battery of a family members, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of ammunition without an FID card, carrying a firearm without a license and carrying a loaded firearm without a license.Peterson was also charged with failure to provide corrected name/address/DOB, illegal possession of a firearm and fugitive from justice by Lewiston police

State and federal law enforcement in Maine on Tuesday announced the arrest of a Massachusetts man who was wanted in connection with the shooting that killed his brother in Brockton on Easter morning.

Jeremiah Abreu, 20, of Brockton, was arrested at 2:30 p.m. after leaving a home in Lewiston, Maine, according to the office of Plymouth District Attorney Tim Cruz. The arrest warrant for a charge of murder was executed by members of the U.S. Marshals Service and Maine State Police.

The Lewiston Police Department said Abreu was taken into custody following a coordinated traffic stop. Abreu was transported to the Androscoggin County Jail, where he will await extradition.

Abreu's brother, Sedrick Abreu, 27, was found with a gunshot wound to the chest inside a home at 36 Hoover Ave. in Brockton at 2:17 a.m. on Sunday. He was taken to Good Samaritan Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead of his injuries.

Two other suspects, Sirick Amado, 24, and Antonio Dejesus, 26, were already arrested and charged with accessory to homicide.

Amado and Dejesus were arraigned Monday in Brockton District Court.

During the arraignment, prosecutors said surveillance video shows Amado give a gun to Jeremiah Abreu before Abreu went inside the Hoover Avenue home.

"At that time is when officers believe that Mr. Abreu shot and killed his brother," Assistant District Attorney Kristina Zanini said in court.

Lewiston Police Dept.

Prosecutors also said surveillance video shows Abreu exit the home and give the gun to Dejesus, who then placed an item in the back of an SUV.

Attorneys representing Amado and Dejesus said the surveillance video does not definitively show what happened, and that investigators did not find a gun when they searched the SUV.

Amado and Dejesus are being held without bail until a dangerousness hearing, which is scheduled for Thursday.

Lewiston police also said they arrested 22-year-old Dominic Peterson, also of Brockton, Massachusetts, during the coordinated traffic stop.

According to Lewiston police, Peterson was in the vehicle that Jeremiah Abreu was traveling in Tuesday and he refused to identify himself.

Police said Peterson was found to be in possession of a firearm and was taken to the Lewiston Police Station, where he was identified with the use of fingerprint analysis.

Lewiston Police Dept.

Lewiston police said Peterson was wanted on numerous warrants out of Massachusetts, including assault and battery of a family members, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of ammunition without an FID card, carrying a firearm without a license and carrying a loaded firearm without a license.

Peterson was also charged with failure to provide corrected name/address/DOB, illegal possession of a firearm and fugitive from justice by Lewiston police

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Victim's brother arrested in connection with deadly shooting - WCVB Boston

Boeing Whistleblower’s Attorneys Say They "Didn’t See Any Indication" of Suicide Risk – Futurism

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After Boeing whistleblower John Barnett's tragic death during his deposition against the company, the man's attorneys are speaking out about his alleged suicide.

The 62-year-old Louisiana-based whistleblower had traveled to Charleston, South Carolina to finally be deposed for his 2017 Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) complaint against his ex-employer when, as his attorney Brian Knowles told the Corporate Crime Reporter blog, he failed to show up to one of the sessions over the weekend.

Knowles and his co-counsel, Rob Turkewitz, were unable to reach Barnett by phone and thus contacted the hotel he was staying at which was when the retired Boeing worker's body was found in his car.

In an initial autopsy report, as local and national news indicates, the Charleston County Coronoer's Office said that the 32-year Boeing employee appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound but his lawyers, Knowles and Tukewitz, are urging investigators to take a closer look.

"John was in the midst of a deposition in his whistleblower retaliation case, which finally was nearing the end," the attorneys toldFuturism in an emailed statement. "He was in very good spirits and really looking forward to putting this phase of his life behind him and moving on."

"We didn't see any indication he would take his own life," the statement continues. "No one can believe it."

Although Barnett did indicate that his time at Boeing, where he spent 32 years in quality control and multiple decades as a manager, resulted in stress after his superiors began retaliating against him for raising safety concerns at the company's SC plant, previous reports have not suggested that he had deeper mental health issues or experienced suicidal ideation.

To be fair, people who plan to end their lives don't always show visible signs of risk. But given that Barnett was, as his attorneys pointed out, nearing the end of his protracted battle, the circumstances surrounding his untimely death do indeed seem eyebrow-raising.

In statements to theBBC and other media outlets, Boeing offered condolences on Barnett's death and said its "thoughts are with his family and friends." We've reached out to the company to ask if it has a response to the lawyers' latest statement.

Charleston police, meanwhile, have said that they're "actively investigating this case and are awaiting the formal cause of death, along with any additional findings that might shed further light on the circumstances" of Barnett's death, as sergeant Anthony Gibson told local broadcaster WCSC.

The whistleblower's attorneys said in their statement that they urge investigators to look into Barnett's death "fully and accurately," adding that "no detail can be left unturned."

"We are all devasted," Knowles and Turkewitz wrote. "We need more information about what happened to John."

More on Boeing:Pilot Lost Control of Boeing Jet Because Gauges Went Blank," Causing Nosedive

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Boeing Whistleblower's Attorneys Say They "Didn't See Any Indication" of Suicide Risk - Futurism

Pentagon Says It Has No Record of Reverse-Engineered Alien Technology – Futurism

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That's exactly the kind of thing the Pentagon would say. No Aliens

The Pentagon has released a 63-page, unclassified report to the public, concluding that it had found no evidence of extraterrestrials, let alone the secret reverse-engineering of recovered alien technology by the US government, in its investigation of UFO sightings.

It's yet another wet blanket being thrown on recent conspiratorial and increasingly far-fetched claims.

The Pentagon's All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) "found no verifiable evidence that any UAP sighting has represented extraterrestrial activity," the office's acting director Tim Phillips told reporters, as quoted by ABC News.

"AARO has found no verifiable evidence that the US government or private industry has ever had access to extraterrestrial technology" or ever "illegally or inappropriately withheld" information from Congress.

The news comes after Air Force veteran and former member of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency David Grusch came forward last year, alleging that the government had secretly recovered alien spacecraft and even dead "pilots" inside them for decades as part of a top-secret UFO retrieval program.

The topic of "unidentified aerial phenomena" (UAPs), as they've come to be known in government circles, has hit fever pitch as of late, with government organizations including NASA taking recent reports of UFO sightings more seriously. At the same time, we've seen a resurgence of conspiracy theories, claims of government cover-ups, and plenty of outlandish claims as well.

What brought the topic back into public consciousness was a series of sightings made by US military pilots over the last few decades, as seen in a number of declassified videos.

But as expected, evidence of an extraterrestrial explanation has yet to surface, despite widespread speculation that these mysterious objects were somehow breaking the laws of physics.

According to the latest report, most of the UAP sightings could be blamed on the "misidentification of ordinary phenomena and objects," and some of them may have been due to the rapid emergence of new technologies like drones.

Thanks to the internet, the topic of UFOs is proving "more pervasive now than ever," according to the report.

"Aside from hoaxes and forgeries, misinformation and disinformation is more prevalent and easier to disseminate now than ever before, especially with today's advanced photo, video, and computer generated imagery tools," the report reads.

To get a better sense of what these UAPs could be, the AARO is now working on a real-time UAP sensor technology dubbed "Gremlin," which could be deployed "in reaction to reports," as Phillips told journalists today.

Whether those efforts will end up bearing any fruit, let alone catch aliens, remains to be seen.

More on UFOs: Alien Probes May Have Already Visited Earth, Scientist Says

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Pentagon Says It Has No Record of Reverse-Engineered Alien Technology - Futurism

HHS Expands TEFCA by Adding Two Additional QHINs – HHS.gov

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Seven QHINs will now safely and securely exchange critical health information for patient care

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), announced today that two additional organizationsCommonWell Health Alliance and Kno2have been designated as Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs) capable of nationwide health data exchange governed by the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common AgreementSM (TEFCASM). ONC has led a multi-year, public-private process alongside its Recognized Coordinating Entity, The Sequoia Project, Inc., to implement TEFCA, which was envisioned by the 21st Century Cures Act to support nationwide interoperability. TEFCA became operational in December 2023 with the designation of the first five QHINseHealth Exchange, Epic Nexus, Health Gorilla, KONZA, and MedAllies.

CommonWell Health Alliance and Kno2 can immediately begin supporting the exchange of data under the Common Agreement's policies and technical requirements along with the other designated QHINs. QHINs are the pillars of TEFCA network-to-network exchange, providing shared services and governance to securely route queries, responses, and messages across networks for health care stakeholders including patients, providers, hospitals, health systems, payers, and public health agencies.

"These additional QHINs expand TEFCA's reach and provide additional connectivity choices for patients, health care providers, hospitals, public health agencies, health insurers, and other authorized health care professionals," said Micky Tripathi, Ph.D., national coordinator for health information technology. "On behalf of ONC, I want to congratulate CommonWell Health Alliance and Kno2 for their achievement."

"The designation of these two QHINs, which brings the total number of QHINs to seven, highlights the rapid expansion of TEFCA exchange and the support of more and more leaders around TEFCA exchange," said Mariann Yeager, CEO of The Sequoia Project and RCE lead.

Common Agreement Version 2.0, which is anticipated to include enhancements and updates to require support for Health Level Seven (HL7) Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) based transactions, is actively under development and scheduled to be adopted by QHINs within the first quarter of 2024.

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HHS Expands TEFCA by Adding Two Additional QHINs - HHS.gov

From the Caribbean’s tallest falls to a hidden cenote: Seek adventure in the Dominican Republic – Euronews

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Embarking on a Caribbean getaway in 2024? Prepare to be captivated beyond the sun-kissed beaches.

The Dominican Republic is synonymous with crystal-clear waters and idyllic, white sand beaches.

A day spent lounging beneath swaying coconut trees is the ideal refuge from Europes chilly winters, allowing you to return to the office flaunting that enviable sun-kissed tan.

In the Dominican Republic there are more than 200 beaches - from the famous Playa Bvaro in Punta Cana to Playa Fernanda in Miches, says Enrique Penson, director of Economic Studies at the countrys Ministry of Tourism.

Yet, the country's charm goes well beyond its pristine coastlines. Majestic waterfalls, lush national parks, and aromatic cacao plantations await your exploration.

In 2023 the country hosted 10 million visitors and that is because the Dominican Republic has it all, says Penson. Besides stunning beaches, magnificent nature and experiences, the best is the Dominican people's warmth and hospitality.

Heres how to get the best out of your visit to the stunning Caribbean nation.

Foodies should make a beeline for the cacao trails in San Francisco de Macors, in the northeast Duarte province.

Making up 10 per cent of the Dominican Republics lush green expanse, cacao plantations are vital to preserve the island's natural environment. Renowned as the worlds premier producer of organic cocoa, the island is the perfect place to experience the captivating floral aroma of unprocessed cocoa fruit.

Step into the enchanting haciendas de cacao, where visitors not only explore plantations and gain insights into the chocolate-making process but also have the opportunity to actively participate in cacao cultivation and harvesting alongside local producers.

Among the most popular cacao trails is that of Finca La Esmeralda. For the ultimate experience, plan your visit during the harvest period, which occurs twice a year from September to December and January to May.

The picturesque landscape of the Dominican Republic is graced with awe-inspiring waterfalls. Venture into the Saman Peninsula for the the perfect blend of beautiful beaches and trekking experiences, recommends Penson.

Here, you can discover the allure of El Limn Waterfall, which cascades from tropical surroundings. One of the most remarkable experiences in this region involves a horse ride through lush paths, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning nature.

The peninsula is also home to the protected Parque Nacional Los Haitises. Its remarkable limestone karsts, sinkholes and mangroves served as the filming location for the iconic Jurassic Park. Spanning 1,600 km-squared, its ancient rock formations date back 50 million years.

Further northwest, near Puerto Plata, the 27 Charcos de Damajagua awaits - a collection of 27 waterfalls that captivate thrill-seekers. This natural playground invites exploration through hiking and swimming, rewarding visitors with exhilarating cliff jumps and natural slides.

The pinnacle of waterfall grandeur, however, lies in Salto de La Jalda, the Caribbean's highest waterfall, standing at over 120 metres. Tucked within the National Park of La Jalda in Miches, reaching it can be an adventure in itself. Whether by a scenic two-hour hike or a helicopter excursion, both routes offer a chance to delve into the forest and experience the biodiversity of its flora and fauna first-hand.

For a touch of magic, venture into Punta Cana's Hoyo Azul, a mesmerising blue sinkhole nestled in lush rainforest. This cenote is often referred to as the "Indigenous eye. You'll find this hidden oasis discreetly tucked away inside the Scape Park, within the captivating Cap Cana area.

Take a revitalising dip in its natural, cold spring waters, which boast a depth of 14 metres and are embraced by a 75-metre-tall limestone cliff adorned with lush vegetation. To reach Hoyo Azul you have to cross a suspension bridge and meander through an orchid garden.

A must visit for nature enthusiasts, this unique site seamlessly blends adventure, nature and tranquillity in the heart of Punta Cana's captivating landscapes.

The Dominican Republic's cultural fusion shines through its vibrant people, who eagerly share their traditions.

The culinary landscape is a fusion of Tano, Spanish and African influences. The national dish, La Bandera Dominicana, is a hearty amalgamation of rice, beans, meat (often chicken or beef), and salad. Fresh seafood dishes, like pescado con coco (fish in coconut sauce), captivate taste buds with their vibrant flavours.

"Fish from any of our coasts is our main dish - always fresh, savoury, and complemented by our traditional sauces crafted from local ingredients," says Penson.

Beyond the national dish, start your day with mang, a breakfast staple made from mashed plantains, or savour the comforting sancocho, a stew filled with various meats and vegetables.

For a sweet and savoury experience, indulge in pasteln de pltano maduro, a dish that layers ripe plantains, meat and cheese. Each bite reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Dominican cuisine, making it an essential part of your travel adventure in this vibrant Caribbean destination.

To truly grasp the essence of Dominican culture and their zest for life, learn the steps of merengue and bachata, two vibrant Caribbean dance styles recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

"Any Dominican will gladly guide you through the steps of merengue and bachata. We carry the beats of these dances within us, cherishing the joy of dancing, and we love it when foreigners express an interest in learning," encourages Penson.

Don't miss the opportunity to attend merengue festivals held in various cities across the Dominican Republic, including the lively celebrations in Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata.

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From the Caribbean's tallest falls to a hidden cenote: Seek adventure in the Dominican Republic - Euronews

The Future of Cloud Computing in Business Operations – Data Science Central

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The digital era has witnessed the remarkable evolution of cloud computing, transforming it into a cornerstone of modern business operations. This technology, which began as a simple concept of centralized data storage, has now evolved into a complex and dynamic ecosystem, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively than ever before. The Future of Cloud Computing holds unparalleled potential, promising to revolutionize the way companies operate, innovate, and compete in the global market.

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of various services over the Internet, including data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software. Rather than owning their computing infrastructure or data centers, companies can rent access to anything from applications to storage from a cloud service provider.

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate, offering a plethora of advantages that enhance efficiency, flexibility, and scalability. In this discussion, well delve into the key benefits of cloud computing, explaining each in simple terms and underlining their significance in todays business landscape.

Cloud computing significantly cuts down on the capital cost associated with purchasing hardware and software, especially in sectors like the healthcare industry. Its an economical alternative to owning and maintaining extensive IT infrastructure, allowing businesses, including those in the healthcare sector, to save on setup and maintenance costs. This aspect is particularly beneficial in cloud computing in healthcare industry, where resources can instead be allocated toward patient care and medical research.

The ability to scale resources elastically with cloud computing is akin to having a flexible and adaptable IT infrastructure. Businesses can efficiently scale up or down their IT resources based on current demand, ensuring optimal utilization and avoiding wastage.

Cloud services are hosted on a network of secure, high-performance data centers globally, offering superior performance over traditional single corporate data centers. This global network ensures reduced latency, better application performance, and economies of scale.

Cloud computing facilitates a swift and agile business environment. Companies can quickly roll out new applications or resources, empowering them to respond swiftly to market changes and opportunities.

The efficiency and speed offered by cloud computing translate into enhanced productivity. Reduced network latency ensures applications and services run smoothly, enabling teams to achieve more in less time.

Cloud computing enhances collaboration by enabling team members to share and work on data and files simultaneously from any location. This virtual collaboration space is crucial for businesses with remote teams and global operations.

Here, we explore the transformative role of cloud computing in business, focusing on 7 key points that forecast its future impact and potential in streamlining and innovating operational landscapes.

In the Future of Cloud Computing, handling enormous amounts of data will become more critical than ever. Businesses of all sizes generate data at unprecedented rates. From customer interactions to transaction records, every piece of data is a potential goldmine of insights. Cloud computing steps in as the ideal solution to manage this surge efficiently.

Cloud storage provides a scalable and flexible way to store and access vast datasets. As we move forward, cloud providers will likely offer more tailored storage solutions, catering to different business needs. Whether its for high-frequency access or long-term archiving, cloud storage can adapt to various requirements.

Another significant aspect of data management in the Future of Cloud Computing is real-time data processing. Businesses will rely on cloud computing not just for storage, but also for the immediate processing and analysis of data. This capability allows for quicker decision-making, a crucial factor in maintaining a competitive edge.

One of the most transformative impacts of cloud computing is its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. In the Future of Cloud Computing, remote and global teams can collaborate as if they were in the same room. Cloud-based tools and platforms allow team members from different parts of the world to work on projects simultaneously, share files instantaneously, and communicate in real-time.

In the Future of Cloud Computing, we can expect a rise in virtual workspaces. These digital environments simulate physical offices, providing a space where remote workers can feel connected and engaged. They offer features like virtual meeting rooms, shared digital whiteboards, and social areas, replicating the office experience in a digital realm.

Cloud computing does more than just streamline operations; it also opens doors to innovation. With cloud resources, businesses can experiment with new ideas without significant upfront investment in infrastructure. This flexibility encourages creativity and risk-taking, which are essential for innovation.

Cloud computing accelerates the product development cycle. Teams can quickly set up and dismantle test environments, prototype more efficiently, and bring products to market faster. This agility gives businesses a significant advantage in rapidly evolving markets.

The landscape of cloud computing is rapidly evolving, with new trends constantly emerging to redefine how businesses leverage this technology. In the context of the future of cloud computing, 3 key trends stand out for their potential to significantly shape the industry. Understanding these trends is crucial for businesses looking to stay competitive and innovative.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are becoming increasingly integral to cloud computing. This integration is revolutionizing how cloud services are delivered and utilized. AI algorithms are enhancing the efficiency of cloud platforms, offering smarter data analytics, automating routine tasks, and providing more personalized user experiences. For instance, cloud-based AI services can analyze vast amounts of data to predict market trends, customer behavior, or potential system failures, offering invaluable insights for businesses.

This integration not only boosts the performance and scalability of cloud solutions but also opens up new avenues for innovation across various sectors.

As cloud computing becomes more prevalent, the focus on security and compliance is intensifying. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats make robust cloud security a top priority for businesses. In response, cloud service providers are investing heavily in advanced security measures, such as enhanced encryption techniques, identity and access management (IAM), and AI-powered threat detection systems.

Furthermore, with regulations like GDPR and CCPA in place, compliance has become a critical aspect of cloud services. The future of cloud computing will likely witness a surge in cloud solutions that are not only secure but also compliant with various global and industry-specific regulations. This trend ensures that businesses can confidently and safely leverage the cloud while adhering to legal and ethical standards.

Sustainability is a growing concern in the tech world, and cloud computing is no exception. There is an increasing trend towards green cloud computing, focusing on reducing the environmental impact of cloud services. This involves optimizing data centers for energy efficiency, using renewable energy sources, and implementing more sustainable operational practices.

It will likely see a stronger emphasis on sustainability as businesses and consumers become more environmentally conscious. Cloud providers who prioritize and implement eco-friendly practices will not only contribute to a healthier planet but also appeal to a growing segment of environmentally-aware customers.

The future of cloud computing is bright and offers a plethora of opportunities for businesses to grow and evolve. By staying informed and adapting to these changes, companies can leverage cloud computing to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Remember, the future of cloud computing isnt just about technology; its about how businesses can harness this technology to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth.

For businesses aiming to thrive in the ever-changing digital world, embracing the advancements in cloud computing is not just a choice but a necessity. Staying updated and adaptable will be key to harnessing the power of cloud computing for business success in the years to come.

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The Future of Cloud Computing in Business Operations - Data Science Central

Council to consider limiting powers of the mayor after removal of Confederate statue | Jax Daily Record – Jacksonville Daily Record

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A discussion began Jan. 2 at the City Council Rules Committee about the extent and limits of the power of Jacksonvilles mayor that could ultimately require proposed changes being put on a ballot for the public to decide.

Council President Ron Salem, responding to Mayor Donna Deegans action to remove the Women of the Southland Confederate monument from Springfield Park on Dec. 27, called city General Counsel Michael Fackler to appear before the committee to answer questions about his offices advice to Deegan that led to the removal without consulting the Council or seeking its approval of the action.

Several times during the discussion, Salem said his concern is about Councils authority, not about the statue or whether it was appropriate for it to be displayed on city property.

I feel our powers were infringed upon, Salem said.

Salem said he plans to file legislation Jan. 3 to clarify the mayors power to authorize such an action in the future.

Many of his questions to Fackler were related to Deegan basing her decision to have the statue removed on a draft opinion from the Office of General Counsel that was neither dated nor signed, rather than a formal, final document.

Fackler said the draft was an internal document prepared by his office that was used to advise the mayor.

It was a way to get our thoughts on paper and make sure we were comfortable giving the advice, Fackler said.

The draft, a public document, was provided to the media Dec. 26, Fackler said.

Salem said he learned about the advice given to Deegan from news reports.

The media showed me a draft document I didnt know anything about, he said.

I never want to see a draft document used as long as I am on City Council.

The advice given to Deegan was based on the fact that the reported $187,000 used to pay for the statues removal came from private donations, not revenue accounted for in the city budget or the Capital Improvement Plan approved by Council.

Fackler said the advice to Deegan was based on the fact that the donations did not flow into the city budget, so the money was not in Councils jurisdiction.

The mayor was advised that we didnt see anything that would prevent her from accepting gifts to use for removal of the statue, Fackler said.

Salem asked whether Deegan or a future mayor could use private donations to remove other statues from city property, such as the statue of the late U.S. Rep. Charles Bennett in James Weldon Johnson Park.

There is a possibility it could occur again, Fackler said.

Council member Kevin Carrico asked why Council was not advised before Dec. 27 that the statue was going to be removed.

My impression is that if the removal was announced it could have created a furor and a security concern, said Bill Delaney, Council liaison for Deegan.

Council member Jimmy Peluso

Council member Jimmy Peluso said he agrees with the decision to not announce the removal before it began.

The last thing we want is for Jacksonville to be on CNN for political violence, Peluso said.

Council member Matt Carlucci said the draft opinion merely repeated what is in the city charter and the ordinance code and he supports Deegans decision to have the monument removed.

This has been a thorn in the side of Council and somebody had to take leadership, Carlucci said.

I support the strong mayor form of government. We need a strong mayor in emergencies, like a hurricane. In my opinion, the mayor overstepped herself in this case, Salem said.

Fackler advised that if any changes to the mayors power sought by Council require amending the city charter, the changes must be approved by a majority vote in a referendum. He said he will work with Salem to craft the proposed legislation.

Deegan is the second Jacksonville mayor to act to remove Confederate statues.

In June 2020, former Republican Mayor Lenny Curry committed to remove all the citys Confederate monuments and city crews worked overnight to remove a statue of a Confederate infantryman in Hemming Park south of City Hall.

In August 2020, the Council voted to change the name of the park in honor of writer and civil rights activist James Weldon Johnson.

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Council to consider limiting powers of the mayor after removal of Confederate statue | Jax Daily Record - Jacksonville Daily Record

Suspect dead after multiple carjackings during police pursuit through southwest Las Vegas Valley – KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas

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LAS VEGAS (KTNV) A Las Vegas man shot and killed his mother Wednesday morning and would go on to kill at least one other person in a series of armed carjackings that left bullets strewn through the streets of the southwest valley.

Police say the man was ultimately found dead in a stolen vehicle in the area of Durango Drive and Agate Street. That was after he was shot at multiple times by law enforcement officers trying to stop him.

The incident began with multiple people calling police at 3:46 a.m. to report a barrage of gunfire in the area of Placid Street and Maulding Avenue.

Officers would learn that the suspect had shot and killed his mother, according to homicide Lt. Jason Johansson.

Police: Man shot his mother before police chase, armed carjackings in Las Vegas

Johansson says the man's parents, hearing the gunshots, initially drove to the wash area and got there before police arrived. After they got out of their truck, police said the suspect shot and killed his mom.

Officers responding to reports of the shooting would find the suspect standing near a white pickup truck.

"Shortly thereafter is when officers were shot at," Johansson said.

Cabria Kirby, KTNV

"This is a very quiet neighborhood," said Alan Kempker, who lives near the intersection of Placid Street and Maulding Avenue. "We never see anything like this."

That kicked off a chaotic police chase as the suspect stole an unoccupied patrol car and fled west toward Durango Drive, where the series of armed carjackings began.

At least one other person would be killed before the man could be stopped.

Capt. Joshua Martinez of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department's Office of Internal Oversight and Constitutional Policing laid out a timeline of what happened next.

He says officers initially pursued the man to the 7300 block of Durango Drive, near Warm Springs Road. There, Martinez says the suspect carjacked a citizen and continued fleeing police in a stolen truck.

Police: Suspect dead after armed carjackings, police chase in Las Vegas

Police chased him to the area of Durango Drive and Blue Diamond Road, where Martinez says he used a firearm to carjack another citizen.

A Las Vegas police officer "noticed the firearm and the threat to the citizen" and fired their service weapon at the suspect, Martinez said.

KTNV

The suspect drove off again in the SUV he'd carjacked, pursued by police to the area of Durango Drive and Windmill Lane. That's where police say he "exited the SUV and pointed a firearm at a citizen in a van."

"A shot was heard, and officers observed the suspect removing the injured citizen from the van," police stated.

As the suspect fled again, Metro police officers and Nevada State Police troopers fired their weapons at the vehicle, Martinez said.

Officers requested medical attention for the injured citizen, who was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Meantime, police kept pursuit of the vehicle, ending up near Durango Drive and Agate Avenue, where Martinez said the stolen vehicle became disabled.

At that point, the suspect was in the vehicle alone and was refusing to cooperate with police commands, Martinez said. SWAT officers were called to the area and determined "there was no movement in the vehicle."

Martinez says the officers then approached the car and determined, with the assistance of medical personnel, that the suspect had died.

"He was taken into custody at that time, and there was no further incidents involving the suspect," Martinez said. "Once he was taken into custody, we were able to determine no officers were injured at this time."

Las Vegas police officers and Nevada State Police troopers fired their weapons through the course of the chase, Martinez said. The names of the officers involved are expected to be released within 48 hours. A representative of the sheriff's office is expected to share additional information about the investigation within 72 hours.

Martinez stressed that the information he shared Wednesday morning was preliminary. He urged anyone who witnessed the morning's events to call LVMPD's dispatch at 702-828-3111.

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HCSO to release body cam footage to plaintiff alleging Fourth Amendment violation – Smoky Mountain News

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Monroe A. Miller Jr. petitioned the court on Nov. 22 to obtain the footage. On Dec. 14 following the hearing and his review of the recordings, visiting Superior Court Judge Steve Warren, of Asheville, published his order granting permission, albeit with some noteworthy restrictions.

On Nov. 9 at about 1:25 p.m., two Haywood County Sheriffs deputies visited Millers property along with the plaintiff in an ongoing civil dispute his sister, Linda Overcash as well as her attorney, Mark Melrose. Their civil dispute is over how to split up their late fathers estate. Monroe Albert Miller, who passed away on Jan. 20, 2017, is assumed to have left behind a good deal of money, along with a Haywood County home appraised at over $1 million dollars.

he was co-founder of one of the earliest Computer Companies, Electronic Associates, Inc., a NYSE listed company located in New Jersey, where he designed and manufactured many of the first electronic computers used in industry and the early space program, his obituary reads. In 1955, he founded Milgo Electronic Corporation, a company heavily involved in tracking and communication in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space programs. He and the company were also instrumental in the development of the first, and subsequently, the high speed modem. He served as President and Chairman of the Board until all its NYSE listed stock was acquired in 1977. Milgo's Miami, Florida facility employed more than 2500 and also carried out world- wide manufacturing and marketing operations in many foreign countries.

The group was there to survey the property. Also present on Nov. 9 was Terry Ramey, a Haywood County commissioner and staunch ally of Miller, as well as Millers attorney, Ed Bleynat.

The petition notes that after the visit, on that same day, Miller requested the recordings from Wilke. That communication was entered into evidence as part of the petition.

Deputies appeared indoctrinated by Mark Melrose on the aspects of the order issued, the initial request reads.

Deputies kicked Terry Ramey, Haywood County Commissioner, out of the dwelling also, even though he was acting as my agent, which was allowed in the Order, it later reads.

A Nov. 15 response from Haywood County Sheriffs Office Public Information Officer Gina Zachary notes that because there was no court order mandating the office provide the footage and audio, it could not be turned over at that time. A week later, Miller submitted the petition to the court.

Also included as evidence in the petition is a series of messages between Miller and Wilke from the evening of Nov. 9. In those messages, Miller alleges the deputies violated his rights.

You have made serious, unfounded allegations about my deputies and any further contact will need to be from your legal counsel to ours, Wilke replied. Your multiple public information requests will be handled in as reasonably prompt manner as possible.

Millers chief complaint is that he and Ramey were forced to remain outside while the others had full run of his home. The petition also notes that the order for a law enforcement escort during the survey said that one deputy would be present, but two showed up.

In order to keep the peace and allow a thorough inspection of the property the presence of a uniformed law enforcement officer would be helpful, that order reads.

The order also says that Overcash and Melrose should be allowed adequate space to engage in private conversations during the inspection and that Miller, Ramey and Bleynat shall remain 50 feet or more from the Petitioners and their attorneys while the Petitioners and their attorneys are outside the dwelling during this inspection.

The two deputies violated my Fourth Amendment rights, the petition claims. There was no reason, nor was Mark Melrose authorized, to bring two deputies for this visit. He took a Haywood County Sheriffs Deputy off-line for no good reason, therefore interfereing (sic) with the operation of a law enforcement agency by hindering and obstructing the second law enforcement officer in the performance of his duty.

According to court documents, Miller submitted a complaint against Melrose to the North Carolina Bar Association, something he has done in the past against multiple local attorneys. For his part, in an email to Bleynat, Melrose alleged that Miller behaved inappropriately and without an understanding of proper procedure when he showed up at Melrose's office seeking a signature for the receipt of a $5,000 check he was ordered by a judge to provide to cover administrative costs related to the dispute over the estate.

Your client just came to my office trying to get my staff to sign a document indicating receipt of a check, the email reads. I did not speak with him. He was instructed by my staff to call your office. Please advise Mr. Miller to never come to my office again, and advise him that I am not legally permitted to talk to him nor is my staff.

In court on Dec. 14, Wilke was accompanied by members of his command staff, as well as Zachary. While Ramey didnt accompany Miller, he did show up a few minutes after the hearing began. Neither side was represented by an attorney that morning. The hearing was the first of the day in Haywood County Superior Court, and when Warren took the bench, he brought Miller and Wilke up to argue their positions, noting that while he was called in the day before to review a case he wasnt familiar with, hed made time to review the petition. He went through state law outlining the procedure for a person to obtain law enforcement agency recordings.

That statute dictates that the court must consider a few things.

First, the person requesting the recording must be authorized to receive it. In this case, because Miller is depicted in the recording as stipulated by Wilke in court he is authorized. Next, the judge asked whether the recording may contain confidential information. It was acknowledged by both parties that it likely included conversations covered by attorney-client privilege. Miller agreed that audio in such segments could be redacted, which Warren said rendered that issue moot. Other concerns were whether the recording could reveal information that is highly sensitive or personal; if the disclosure could create a serious threat to the fair, impartial, and orderly administration of justice; or if its disclosure could jeopardize an active or inactive internal or criminal investigation. It was agreed that none of those would be an issue.

Wilke voiced concern that it could be technically cumbersome to redact the audio from the recordings while maintaining their integrity. In addition, according to statute, the disclosure of the recordings cant jeopardize the safety of a person, nor can it harm anyones reputation. Wilke said that Miller frequently uses a blog he has maintained for several years to launch personal attacks against numerous individuals.

While the sheriff said hed love the recordings to be made public because theyd refute the claim that we violated Mr. Millers Fourth Amendment Rights, he was concerned that Miller would use parts of the recording out of context to attack his deputies character and reputation. Warren addressed this in the order. First, he listed specific segments of the video that contain conversations covered by attorney-client privilege for which the audio must be redacted. He also gave Miller strict orders for how he can use the recording, once released to him.

No portion of the released videos may be published other than in a pending court proceeding, it reads, or to any party to any current or future lawsuit or witness is (sic) said lawsuit who are all hereby ordered not to publicly disclose the contents of said video. Said Order is punishable by contempt.

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HCSO to release body cam footage to plaintiff alleging Fourth Amendment violation - Smoky Mountain News

‘A long time coming’: Sports betting, craps and roulette debut in Florida, bringing gamblers, celebrities to Seminole … – South Florida Sun Sentinel

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The first dice were rolled, wheels spun and wagers placed as craps, roulette and in-person sports betting officially launched in Florida on Thursday.

The day began with an elaborate ceremony at the Seminole Classic Casino in Hollywood featuring drumming, feathered dancers and cockatoos, and ended with the inaugural sports bet at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, where Mike Tyson, Rick Ross and other celebrities announced their picks.

Tyson bet on the Dolphins, saying, theyre going to win because I said so.

But for the Seminoles, Thursday was also a serious affair. It marked a turning point amid ongoing legal battles and another example of the tribes continued prosperity despite the obstacles thrown in its path.

Theres been a lot of Seminole Wars, said Chris Osceola, a tribal councilman who represents Hollywood, in a speech in one of Classic Casinos slot machine-filled rooms Thursday morning. And to me this is no different.

He was referring to the lawsuits that have sought to stop the gaming compact between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe since the agreement was signed in 2021. The agreement gave the tribe the authority to launch mobile and in-person sports betting, as well as craps and roulette, at all of its casinos.

After the agreement was signed, Osceola recalled leaving Tallahassee hooting and cheering over what was to come. Then the lawsuits arrived, forcing the tribe to a halt.

Finally, last month, both the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court ruled against suspending the compact while two cases continue, opening a tentative door for Thursdays launch. The Florida case could see a conclusion as soon as this month, but that didnt seem to deter anyone.

Once again, the tribe has prevailed, Hard Rock Chairman Jim Allen told the South Florida Sun Sentinel ahead of the ceremony Thursday. And we mean that with a very humble mindset.

Critics of the compact, including the betting companies challenging it in court, have argued that it gives the already powerful tribe an unfair monopoly on sports betting. The tribe and its executives, including Allen, have given millions of dollars to Gov. DeSantis, including tens of thousands towards his presidential campaign.

But on Thursday, tribe officials described their success as championing over adversity.

Were going to create dreams for our great grandchildren of tomorrow, to live a better life than we live, said Seminole Tribe Chairman Marcellus Osceola Jr. in his speech. Thats a dream for each and every one of us in this world, is to have better for our children than what we had.

Local gamblers who also had waited for this day to arrive joined celebrities and members of the tribe at the Classic Casino about 10 a.m., then had to wait again for the ceremony to conclude before they could crowd around the new craps and roulette tables. Some said they had already begun sports betting on the new app; others were waiting for it to arrive in person.

Its been a long time coming, said Eric Sonnabend as he threw $400 on the newly inaugurated craps table Thursday, the first real game of the day.

Moments prior, Osceola Jr. had taken the first dice out of a white satin box at that table and rolled an eleven.

Sonnabend was waiting for craps to start in Florida so he didnt have to travel to Vegas to play, something he does often. As others joined him at the table, he became a sort of impromptu teacher, explaining the rules.

The convenience and lack of a need to leave Florida was a common theme among officials and attendees, including Miami Marlins coach Jon Jay, who echoed Sonnabends sentiments.

I dont have to go to Vegas anymore, he said.

The date of Thursdays launch was fitting, Osceola Jr. said. Nearly 44 years ago to the date, the tribes bingo hall opened where the Seminole Classic is today in December 1979 after the Broward Sheriffs Office threatened to shut it down, he said. The tribe had filed a lawsuit challenging the sheriffs authority and won.

For the Seminoles, guarding the monopoly on its most important income source might seem like a necessity as some Indian reservations have struggled to compete with major betting companies in other states.

Wed like to recycle the money here in the state of Florida with our people, Osceola said towards the end of his speech. Keep it here, not let it leave.

Other speakers included Holly Tiger, the vice-chairwoman of the tribal council and president of its board of directors, Mariann Billie, the councilwoman representing Big Cypress, and Larry Howard, the councilman representing Brighton.

Officials are optimistic that neither court case will force the tribe to reverse Thursdays launch, which involved hiring hundreds of new employees, rolling in dozens of roulette and craps tables and installing sports betting kiosks throughout all Seminole casinos.

We certainly believe in the legal theory that weve worked out prior to signing the compact, Allen said. We didnt just sign this on a whim; we did a lot of research.

The case before the Florida Supreme Court centers around mobile sports betting, he added, and even if the court decided against the tribe, he believes about 80 percent of the scope would remain, including all the new tables and dealers.

Thursdays crowds didnt only include gambling aficionados. Bill Condoulis moved to Hollywood from Brooklyn two years ago, so the casinos are in his neighborhood. He used to gamble in Atlantic City, though he doesnt consider himself a gambler, he said. He goes once a month because its nearby and allows himself to bet $500.

Similar launch ceremonies took place Thursday at the Coconut Creek casino about 1 p.m. and the Hard Rock in Hollywood about 4:30 p.m., concluding with the ceremonial sports bets, where select celebrities and tribe officials clutched golden tickets that read first bet.

Osceola Jr. bet on the Florida State Seminoles; Brooks Nader, a Sports Illustrated cover model, went with the Marlins for the World Series in 2024, and Ross went with the Miami Heat. By 6 p.m., the sports betting kiosks had fully opened to the public.

As players waited impatiently, dealers adjusted to the real-life game for the first time. Rebeca Ynde, who lives in Tamarac, became a dealer only a year ago. She handled the ceremonial roulette spin in the Classic Casino, also her first live game, doling thousands out to tribe officials as the crowd watched. Afterwards, she said she was a good nervous.

Later in the day at the Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, a newly-minted craps dealer spoke casually with Gloria and Emilio Estefan, asking them if theyd stick around to play later, though they had to leave for the red carpet.

Other employees at the Thursdays ceremonies had been around for decades.

Sharon Carrero, 65, received a special shout-out in the morning for spending close to 44 years as an employee at the Classic Casino, beginning as a bingo clerk when it was just a bingo hall in the 1980s.

Carrero saw the Classic Casino go through all of its evolutions, but in some ways, Thursday was the last frontier, she said. Its come full circle.

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'A long time coming': Sports betting, craps and roulette debut in Florida, bringing gamblers, celebrities to Seminole ... - South Florida Sun Sentinel