Author: boringtestbed

Boeing, the renowned aerospace company, is set to make significant job cuts in Florida, specifically on the Space Coast, starting in January 2025. According to the Florida Department of Commerce, more than 100 positions will be eliminated. 

In November, Boeing announced its decision to lay off 141 employees across various locations in the state, including Central Florida and Tampa Bay. With a workforce of approximately 2,500 people in Florida, this reduction is expected to have a notable impact. 

The layoffs will impact multiple areas, including 26 positions at the Kennedy Space Center, 20 in Titusville, and one at Cape Canaveral. In a letter to the Florida Department of Commerce, Boeing mentioned that the layoffs would commence on January 17th for most employees, and there would be no bumping rights available. 

This unfortunate news comes in the wake of Boeing’s troubled year in 2024. The company faced several challenges, such as a door incident during an Alaska Airlines flight and technical issues with their Starliner capsule, including helium leaks and thruster problems. As a result, the Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts, Cmdr. Barry “Butch” Wilmore and pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams, had to change their plans and will now rely on competitor SpaceX’s Dragon capsule for their mission to the International Space Station. 

Boeing’s involvement in the Artemis moon program’s Space Launch System rocket’s core stage adds another layer of uncertainty. The company has been contracted to build the 212-foot-tall rocket’s core stage, which played a vital role in the successful 2022 Artemis I uncrewed mission. Furthermore, Boeing had already delivered the core stage for the upcoming Artemis II mission, aimed at returning humans to the moon. 

The repercussions of these layoffs on Boeing’s engagement in various space programs remain uncertain. Spectrum News reached out to Boeing for comment, but no response has been received yet. 

For further information, you can refer to the official statement by Boeing, accessible on Scribd: [link]. 

As the aerospace industry navigates through challenging times, Boeing’s decision to reduce its workforce raises concerns about the future of Florida’s space-related endeavors. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

The Eastern Florida State College men’s basketball team had an exceptional weekend in Georgia, emerging victorious in their games. They defeated South Georgia State College during the B-Mac’s Christmas Classic, securing a comfortable 74-62 win. This victory allowed them to level the season series with the Hawks.

From the very beginning, the No. 24 ranked Titans took control of the game, establishing a quick 10-point lead. Fredy-Salam Sylla played a crucial role, contributing six of the team’s first 15 points. With such a strong start, the Titans extended their lead to as much as 21 points. Going into halftime, they remained in control with a 40-26 lead.

Although South Georgia State College exhibited a strong comeback in the second half, Sylla ensured the Titans stayed ahead by scoring the first eight points of the half. As the game neared its end, the Titan’s lead was reduced to less than 10 points. However, they showed composure and made five of the six free throws, securing their victory and improving their season record to 10-2.

Sylla was undoubtedly a standout player in the game, finishing with 18 points. Wesley Isoje also made an impact, earning his second double-double of the season with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Emondrek Erkins-Ford contributed 11 points, and Felipe Patino scored 10 points.

Following their successful weekend, the Titans will take a holiday break before their next game against Keep Striving Prep on December 31st. The game, taking place at Titan Field House, will tip off at 3 p.m. Fans can watch the live broadcast online on the Eastern Florida State College YouTube channel.

In summary, Eastern Florida State College’s men’s basketball team showcased their prowess and enjoyed a perfect weekend in Georgia. Their skillful play, especially from Sylla and Isoje, propelled them to victory and a 10-2 season record. With their upcoming game against Keep Striving Prep, the Titans aim to continue their winning streak.

Marcus Maye, a Space Coast Sports Hall of Famer and former standout safety, was recently claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Chargers. The team acquired Maye following his release from the New Orleans Saints, where he had played since 2022 under a three-year, $28.5 million contract. Known for his versatility and skill, Maye has proven himself as a dependable defensive back throughout his NFL career.

A Melbourne native, Maye was a multi-sport athlete at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy before making a name for himself at the University of Florida. During his college career, he earned first-team All-American honors from USA Today in 2015, showcasing his defensive prowess. His impressive performance led to his selection by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, where he excelled for five seasons, accumulating 409 tackles, eight interceptions, and 4.5 sacks in his NFL career to date.

While with the Saints, Maye tallied 97 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and two interceptions in limited appearances. The Chargers likely see Maye as a valuable addition to bolster their secondary, bringing both experience and leadership to their defensive unit.

Maye’s journey from Florida high school star to professional athlete underscores his dedication and talent. The Chargers’ decision to claim him reflects their confidence in his ability to make an impact as they strive to improve their defensive lineup