On a 63-37 vote, the U.S. Senate Thursday confirmed the appointment of Solicitor General Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court of the United States -- with Florida's delegation surprising no one when the vote was taken.

Having written a letter on national issues to U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson earlier in the month, incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, announced Wednesday that he will conduct a tour of hospitals and health-care facilities across the state, addressing health-related issues, including Medicaid.

Although the details have not been announced, the White House Press Office revealed President Barack Obama, the first lady and their two children will spend the second weekend of August on the Florida Gulf Coast … Former Miami Mayor Maurice Ferre continues to struggle in his bid for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate.