SUMMARY: Alico Inc., a major citrus grower in Florida, announced it will cease its citrus operations after this year’s harvest due to severe challenges from hurricanes and tree diseases, with production dropping 73% over the last decade. The Fort Myers-based company, which owns over 53,000 acres in Florida, will manage around 3,400 citrus acres through 2026 via third-party caretakers. Alico will also develop a portion of its land for commercial and residential projects. The decision will lead to layoffs of up to 172 employees, highlighting broader declines in Florida’s citrus production driven by disease and recent hurricanes.

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SUMMARY: A December AP-NORC poll indicates that immigration has become a top priority for Americans ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office, with nearly half of respondents highlighting border issues, a significant increase from the previous year. While Republicans largely support stricter immigration policies, including a border wall, Democrats focus more on the economy, with healthcare and political issues as second priorities. Young adults under 30 prioritize economic concerns like inflation and housing, showing less emphasis on immigration than older generations. Overall, economic issues remain paramount for most Americans as Trump prepares to implement his agenda.

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The post Immigration is a higher priority for Americans than it was a year ago, an AP-NORC poll shows appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: Sebastian Zapeta, 33, faces murder and arson charges for allegedly burning 57-year-old Debrina Kawam to death on a Brooklyn subway train. The incident occurred on Dec. 22 when Zapeta is accused of igniting Kawam while she slept and watching her burn. He admitted to being in surveillance footage but cited heavy drinking as a reason for not remembering the event. A Guatemalan citizen with a prior deportation, Zapeta’s top charge could lead to life in prison without parole. The case has sparked renewed concerns about subway safety, prompting increased police presence in high-crime areas.

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The post Man accused of burning woman to death on a New York City subway train is set to be arraigned appeared first on www.clickorlando.com