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4 takeaways from Israel's inconclusive election
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is down but not out.
From Business to Beluga Whales: Inside Briana Maltez’s Marine Biology Journey
Beneath the hum of filtration pumps and the rhythmic trickle of saltwater tanks, Briana Maltez is completely in her element. The Texas A&M University at Galveston marine biology major is following her lifelong love of animals—and that passion drives her pursuit for a second bachelor’s degree in a field that endlessly ignites her curiosity.As a native of nearby Sugar Land, Maltez did not initially set out toward coastal science. She initially earned a degree in agricultural business through the Texas A&M RELLIS campus in Bryan, but her subconscious fascination with ocean life grew into an unignorable question during her time there: What if? Photo courtesy of Briana MaltezThe query continued to plague her until a turning point came during a Florida trip to near the end of her first degree. Up-close encounters with marine life reignited a childhood dream and shifted her trajectory toward the sea. Yet, stepping into an entirely new field required a leap of faith. Faced with the daunting prospect of starting over, Maltez placed her trust in Texas A&M Galveston as the premier marine biology program in the state. Deciding that she would never feel satisfied unless she tried, she applied—finding the resolve to face the demanding science curriculum head-on.Any lingering doubts vanished during her first semester on the island campus. The close-knit campus environment and small class sizes allowed Maltez to build immediate connections with her professors and peers—a welcoming backdrop where her love for ocean stewardship could truly take root.“I instantly fell in love with the campus and the small classes,” Maltez recalled. “I was like, ‘Yep, I’m so happy I came here.'”Before long, Maltez found a second home inside the university’s Sea Life Facility. Designed to mirror complex, large-scale aquarium infrastructure on a manageable scale, the space offered Maltez a safe training ground to grow familiar with system maintenance and water chemistry under the tutelage of Sea Life Facility Manager Katie St. Clair. While tending to the tanks there, she grew especially fond of watching the facility’s resident clownfish breed and care for their clutches.“Katie definitely wants us to learn, ask questions, and get hands-on experience,” said Maltez. “So, it has been great having her help with getting pre-experience before doing it in the real world.”That hands-on experience quickly sparked a deeper interest in animal husbandry—the daily art of monitoring the animal’s diets, observing their behavior, and maintaining the aquarium’s overall health. Eager to turn those newfound practical skills into technical credentials, Maltez even earned certifications in life support systems and water quality management through Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators courses.Maltez’s passion soon extended beyond campus boundaries. During a summer study abroad program in South Caicos, Turks and Caicos, Maltez immersed herself in underwater field research. In addition to learning about local history and ecotourism impacts, she snorkeled daily, utilizing drones and hydrophones to record underwater bioacoustics and listen to the often-missed crackles of snapping shrimp, fish, and lobster larvae. Maltez at SeaWorld San AntonioPhoto courtesy of Briana Maltez“What you don’t realize is that there’s so many animals around you, but because they sense, you already, they run away,” Maltez explained. “I think that’s really cool to experience, because you don’t even think about that when you travel.”Yet, among all her academic adventures, a week-long course at SeaWorld San Antonio through MARB 302 stands out as a defining milestone. Camping on-site alongside fellow marine biology majors, Maltez gained behind-the-scenes access to professional veterinary and husbandry operations, building lasting friendships and even interacting with penguins in the snow.The undeniable highlight of the trip was face-to-face interaction with beluga whales. Having admired the titanic cetaceans for years, getting to learn directly from their trainers solidified her ultimate aspiration: to care for belugas and contribute to conservation research supporting wild populations in Alaska.“They are one of my favorite animals, and I had heard so much about them,” said Maltez. ”Getting to see them up close was an amazing experience.”When she is not analyzing marine environments, Maltez documents campus life through her camera lens. As a photographer for the Nautilus student newspaper, the Yell Leaders at Midnight Yell, and the Shark Scholars club, she brings the university’s passionate energy into sharp focus. With less than a year remaining until graduation, Maltez looks back on her decision to return to school with gratitude. Taking her journey one day at a time helped her push through demanding coursework, unlocking opportunities she once thought were out of reach. Today, Maltez stands as a compelling example of what happens when passion meets purpose: By trusting her drive and embracing every hands-on experience, she has transformed a second chance at college into an opportunity to dive into a career beneath the waves.
Oceanographic Surveys Reveal Surprisingly Lower Summer Temperatures for Alaska’s Kachemak Bay - NCCOS - National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science
Scientists with NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Kasitsna Bay Laboratory conduct monthly oceanographic surveys in Kachemak Bay, a subarctic estuary located in southeast Cook Inlet and adjacent to the northern Gulf of Alaska. Through these surveys, scientists were pleasantly surprised to discover that this year’s water temperatures have remained persistently colder than ... Read more
King tides inundate streets and flood homes and businesses along both US coasts
King tides have inundated parts of both U.S. coasts
Florida State Fan Base Staging an Uprising Over Norvell
Florida State fans are fed up with coach Mike Norvell. They are taking matters into their own hands.
Netanyahu and top rival face postelection choices that could redefine Israeli politics
Israelis are deep in political uncertainty as they await final election results. There's a possibility of Jewish and Arab parties forming a coalition to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Final
Netanyahu and top rival face postelection choices that could redefine Israeli politics
Israelis are deep in political uncertainty as they await final election results. There's a possibility of Jewish and Arab parties forming a coalition to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Final
Netanyahu and top rival face postelection choices that could redefine Israeli politics
Israelis are deep in political uncertainty as they await final election results. There's a possibility of Jewish and Arab parties forming a coalition to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Final
Scientists count more than 2 million eels on one underwater mountain
Patience Seamount is an underwater mountain in Australia's Huon Marine Park off the coast of Tasmania. Every year, it is the site of an enormous gathering of basketwork eels (Diastobranchus capensis) ...
Report: Whittingham’s Michigan Future Is Already in Question
Industry sources are already whispering about Michigan's coaching job, one year into the Kyle Whittingham era. #Wolverines
How Can You Win an Election and Still Lose Power? Israel’s Coalition Politics Explained
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party appears to […]
Connor Heliger Named All-WPIAL By WPSCA
By: Jared Barton North Allegheny boys’ soccer senior Connor Heliger is garnering more end-of-season awards. The captain took home All-WPIAL accolades Wednesday afternoon from the Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association. Congratulations to our 2026 Boys AAA All-WPIAL Selections! 👏👏👏 https://t.co/nFCtoCBuGK — Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association (@WPSCA_) October 28, 2026 Heliger was named a WPIAL… More »
McCullough’s Silence On Norvell Leaves FSU Fans Hanging
Florida State president skips coach Mike Norvell's name in new letter. With a $46.7M buyout and no AD, fans deserve answers now.
What to know about The AP Voter Poll
The Associated Press uses The AP Voter Poll by SSRS to provide insights into election outcomes. This extensive survey of verified voters explains voting coalitions and what motivated voters in
Lincoln Riley makes his stance clear on staying at USC
Lincoln Riley is happy where he is but could it be time for the coaching carousel to run its course?
FIFA politics around Infantino re-election push Japanese official to resign
GENEVA (AP) — Two-time World Cup coach Takeshi Okada resigned as Japanese soccer federation vice president in protest at the politics around FIFA during Gianni Infantino’s campaign to be re-elected. Japan’s soccer body on Wednesday published Okada’s resignation statement dated last Saturday — 24 hours after the Asian Football Confederation had performed a U-turn by
Come enjoy some picking with the Nature Coast Ukulele Friends
Nature Coast Ukulele Friends invite the public to enjoy some time with good, fun music during the next few months. The group will also help celebrate the holiday season by
Flavio Bolsonaro lands in Miami after losing Brazil’s presidential election
Bolsonaro and his family fled to the US amid a Brazilian Supreme Court order to surrender his passports.
FIFA politics around Infantino re-election push Japanese official to resign
GENEVA (AP) — Two-time World Cup coach Takeshi Okada resigned as Japanese soccer federation vice president in protest at the politics around FIFA during Gianni Infantino’s campaign to be re-elected.
FIFA politics around Infantino re-election push Japanese official to resign
GENEVA (AP) — Two-time World Cup coach Takeshi Okada resigned as Japanese soccer federation vice president in protest at the politics around FIFA during Gianni Infantino’s campaign to be re-elected.
FIFA politics around Infantino re-election push Japanese official to resign
Two-time World Cup coach Takeshi Okada has resigned as Japanese soccer federation vice president in protest at the politics around FIFA during Gianni Infantino’s campaign to be re-elected.
Novant Health's mammogram truck brings free screenings to Buncombe County
The 3D screening coach rotates among four Buncombe County sites, offers free mammograms to people who qualify, and stops at a free Halloween health fair in Black Mountain on Saturday.
Packers’ HC Signals Starting Offensive Line Change
The Green Bay Packers might be without starting right guard Travis Glover for their Week 8 game against the Carolina Panthers. The team plays on Thursday Night Football and Glover has not practiced on the estimated injury report for Monday or Tuesday. Head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear that his current injury status will […] The post Packers’ HC Signals Starting Offensive Line Change appeared first on HEAVY.
'It's a brotherhood,' UCLA coach Chesney boasts about rushing attack
"It's a brotherhood in that room, and it's not the easiest thing to do. When you go through a physical game you find that you really need each other."
Marie Gluesenkamp Perez vs. John Braun: Two styles of lawmaking
U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and state Sen. John Braun face off in Washington's 3rd, bringing contrasting styles of lawmaking, coalition-building and problem-solving to a tight race.
Green Bay Packers’ Matt LaFleur calls for consistency after controversial Lions game
The Green Bay Packers dropped to 4-3 following a narrow 20-17 defeat against the Detroit Lions in Week 7. While controversial officiating decisions left many feeling that Green Bay had been on the wrong end of several calls, head coach Matt LaFleur chose a measured approach when addressing the referees on Tuesday. LaFleur avoided escalating [...]
Women’s college basketball coaches unite to advance women’s cardiovascular health
DALLAS, Oct. 28, 2026 — Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, and new projections indicate that nearly 6 in 10 U.S women will have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2050, according to the American Heart...
Heat's Bam Adebayo takes accountability for unfortunate 0-4 start
Bam Adebayo took a lot of blame after the Heat led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Coach Erik Spoelstra started their NBA season with an 0-4 record.
David Girardi continues to be shocked by Patrick Mahomes' ability
During his press conference, Kansas City Chiefs QB coach David Girardi discussed moments when Patrick Mahomes' ability shocked him | @EdEastonJr
Bruno Fernandes: Man Utd head coach Michael Carrick and club captain hold clear-the-air talks ahead of Chelsea fixture
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was an unused substitute in their 3-0 defeat against Bournemouth after being dropped by Michael Carrick; Man Utd head coach will take Saturdays game against Chelsea with Fernandes now in contention after talks on Tuesday
With Terry McLaurin Out, Commanders Depending on Antonio Williams
Head coach Dan Quinn noted he expects wide receiver Terry McLaurin to draw more targets with Terry McLaurin now sidelined for the season
Kuyt named Fenerbahce interim boss ahead of Liverpool tie
Former Netherlands forward Dirk Kuyt is appointed Fenerbahce’s interim coach a week before they face his former club Liverpool in the Champions League.
JJ Redick: Lakers lacked defensive discipline during Tuesday's loss
Lakers coach JJ Redick commented on his team's defensive shortcomings in Tuesday's loss to the Trail Blazers.
MAHA’s midterm report card
It’s been just over two years since the rise of Make America Great Again, or MAHA. The movement united a coalition of moms, wellness influencers and voters across the political spectrum over concerns about chronic illness and childhood diseases. And when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took over as Secretary of Health and Human Services, it seemed like MAHA would be front and center in Washington.But as we approach the midterm elections, has the Trump administration made good on the MAHA agenda? On today’s episode, we dig into what’s changed, what hasn’t and what that means for your health.Interested in more health science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Karl-Anthony Towns responds to Mike Brown’s Knicks halftime challenge in a huge way
Knicks coach Mike Brown called out Karl-Anthony Towns.
Federal cuts put 40,000 on California's Central Coast at risk of losing health insurance
"I think only time is going to tell how bad that impact will be to our communities."
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 28, 2026, puzzle No. 765
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Israeli Arab political power rising with elections, challenging world’s assumptions
Arab political power reveals a country more complicated than its slogans, with consequential choices for the parties on both sides of the coalition table.
Jared Goff Speaks Bluntly On Lions Coach Dan Campbell
T The Detroit Lions did what they had to do Sunday afternoon against their divisional rival, the Green Bay Packers, at Ford Field, defeating them 20-17 thanks to a last-second field goal from kicker Jake Bates. There was also a moment during the contest that could have ultimately cost the Lions the game, as Jahmyr […] The post Jared Goff Speaks Bluntly On Lions Coach Dan Campbell appeared first on HEAVY.
Phillies Hire New Hitting Coach After Firing Kevin Long
The Philadelphia Phillies have made their decision on who their new hitting coach will be after firing Kevin Long.
FACT FOCUS: Kennedy’s claim that Arabs ‘don’t produce science’ meets a Nobel Prize reality check
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at a campaign rally with President Donald Trump at Alico Arena on the campus of Florida Gulf Coast Univer…
Fox Sports’ Robert Griffin III ‘would 100 percent be interested’ in coaching Baylor
Robert Griffin III has said for years that he wants another shot at an NFL quarterback job. That hasn’t come to fruition. So now, the Fox Sports college football analyst is shifting his focus to a different role: college football head coach. The Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL quarterback made the rounds on Monday…
Fresno nonprofit launches effort to combat youth substance use
Fresno nonprofit USEF is developing a youth substance-use prevention coalition, with plans for research involving Stanford experts.
Coalinga College partnership creates direct pathway from classroom to healthcare careers
Students at Coalinga College are getting hands-on healthcare training and a direct connection to potential employers thanks to a partnership.
Israel faces another period of political uncertainty
If neither bloc reaches the 61 seats needed for a majority in Israel's parliament, a number of coalitions are possible.
Billy Napier's buyout ranks among largest in college football history
Sports Illustrated ranks former Florida coach Billy Napier's $21.2 million buyout sixth among the largest in college football history.
Greek Media Break Down Imanol Alguacil's Impact at Olympiacos
Imanol Alguacil's changes at Olympiacos come after seven straight wins, with the coach bringing new intensity, control, and a different approach to the team.
Colo. aerospace company to establish second HQ in Reston
Colorado security and aerospace defense company Auria will establish its East Coast headquarters in Reston, creating 78 jobs.
Anti-Israel political ad sparks backlash, accusations of antisemitism
Republican Jewish Coalition National Political Director Sam Markstein says the pro-Abdul El-Sayed ad is "rage bait."
Bucs Rookie Named Biggest Offseason Addition Through Seven Weeks
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers struck gold with their second-round selection in this past draft, with linebacker Josiah Trotter serving as head coach Todd Bowles' best defender. As the team gets back into the playoff picture, his production will be expected to continue.
Confirmed: Arsenal Starting XI vs. Fleetwood Town
Mikel Arteta has named a much changed side from Saturday's win against Everton as his Arsenal team travel to Highbury, looking to avoid an unlikely cup upset on the North West coast against Fleetwood Town.
‘One-Trick Pony’: Former Steelers Coach Calls Out DK Metcalf
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf have not developed consistent chemistry over the last two years. That was […]
Hasbro Appoints Dungeons & Dragons VP As Next President Of Wizards Of The Coast
New Wizards of the Coast President is the first internal employee to be promoted to the role
'Confidence in the opportunities': How OU's using 2025 run as 'a template'
Following a season high in offensive yards in a 23-15 win over Mississippi State (4-3, 2-3 SEC), head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle spoke to the media
Vance Joseph Augmenting Head Coaching Resume As Broncos' DC
After two trying seasons as head man of the Denver Broncos, Vance Joseph has returned to the Mile High City and constructed a formidable defense that could result in another head-coaching opportunity.
Former UNC basketball coach Hubert Davis joins TNT Sports college basketball coverage
Davis, who was fired in April, will be part of the network’s game and studio coverage this season.
Once a condo building, this Gold Coast tower just sold for $67M
The sale comes amid a surge in Chicago-area apartment deals, with transaction volume up 91% in the first half of the year.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Trailblazer and diving coach, Diane Maiese
In this episode: We sit down with Diane Maiese, the first AND only Black woman to win an NCAA Championship and be named a four-time, all-American, in diving.
Former Reds Champion Joins Mets Coaching Staff
Mariano Duncan brings World Series wins to Queens. See how the Mets are reshaping their coaching staff with his experience this October.
ASI Power Summit 2026: The Science of Cognitive Fitness
Neurophysiologist and Cognitive Performance Coach Louisa Nicola shared insights on cognitive fitness and how everyone can take better care of their brains.
Scientists are using sharks to forecast hurricanes. The secret lies in what they track beneath the waves.
Researchers at the University of Delaware are using specialized telemetry tags on sharks to measure ocean heat and improve hurricane intensity forecasts along the East Coast.
Roller coaster safety is a matter of science
Guidelines for designing coasters don’t reflect the latest science about what types of movement the brain can withstand.
Republicans Boost Independent's State Senate Bid
With no candidate of their own in the race, the GOP is making a late intervention on behalf of former member Nicole Kalloch.
Key things to know about Israel's election
After polls close late Tuesday, the jostling for power is likely to begin — between parties small and big — to achieve a governing coalition and name the next prime minister.
Jets Already Eyeing Two Vikings Coaches?
The NY Jets are in the gutter and probably on the verge of another head coach search. And two MN Vikings coaches may already on their shortlist.
How a Florida State University researcher uses AI to track hidden health risks from red tide
Red tide, a harmful algal bloom that produces toxins, is known for causing respiratory irritation in humans and killing fish in coastal waters. Recent
Man Utd boss Michael Carrick to remain in charge vs Chelsea and given chance to turn situation around
Man Utds under-pressure head coach Michael Carrick being given the opportunity to turn the current situation around; crushing 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth extended Man Utds winless run to eight games in all competitions
A toothy summer in Charleston: My internship studying barium in bottlenose dolphin teeth to determine freshwater exposure
Hi everyone! My name is Hannah Baker and I’m a 2025 Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship student studying Earth and Environmental Sciences with a minor in Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering at the University of Michigan. For my summer internship, I worked at the National Coastal Centers for Ocean Science (NCCOS) Hollings Marine Laboratory in Charleston, South Carolina, stud
Ravens’ Jesse Minter Pressed Over Contradicting Lamar Jackson Injury Updates
It has been a while since the last time Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson saw action on the field. He has already missed three games, with Baltimore losing two of those, including Sunday’s 35-13 defeat at the hands of the Cincinnati Bengals at home. On Monday, Ravens head coach Jesse Minter was asked to clarify […] The post Ravens’ Jesse Minter Pressed Over Contradicting Lamar Jackson Injury Updates appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
A 'canary in the coal mine': Measles resurgence exposes weaknesses in U.S. public health, experts say
The measles resurgence exposes the U.S.' public health weaknesses, such as declining vaccination rates and waning trust in health institutions, experts say.
Vanderbilt football must address these three areas during off week
Here are three areas Vanderbilt football and coach Clark Lea need to handle during the open week.
Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition wants to improve health through nutrition
The Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition will officially launch on Tuesday at its first Food First Health Summit in Center City. It will promote the role of nutrition in health.
Michigan football still waiting for 'hot hand' in rushing game
On Monday, coach Kyle Whittingham was asked if Michigan football might consider a new strategy at running back: keeping one player in for longer.
Science Pub: El Niño Facts, Myths & Mysteries
What is El Niño—and what makes this year’s super? Many people associate El Niño events in California with unusual animal sightings, heavy rains and flooding, and disruptions to coastal agriculture and fisheries. […]
Why Jasiah Jervis Could Be Crucial to Michigan State’s Success
The sharpshooting freshman’s explosive exhibition performances offer Tom Izzo a dynamic solution to the Spartans' backcourt woes, potentially forcing the veteran coach to lean on elite youth.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 27, 2026, puzzle No. 764
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Florida State, Clemson Coaches Face a Defining Showdown
Florida State enters its final five games needing four wins to reach seven. Both head coaches face mounting pressure heading into Saturday's matchup.
Scientists Map Research Priorities for U.S. Climate Assessments
A group of 175 scientists co-led by a Rutgers University professor have developed a research framework identifying gaps in the evidence needed to assess coastal protection, food production and overlapping climate hazards such as extreme heat and power outages.
Should Florida Stick with Tramell Jones Jr. vs. Georgia?
After a stunning upset in Austin, Coach Sumrall faces a high-stakes dilemma: reward Tramell Jones Jr.’s poise or return to the starter who sparked a 4-0 start.
Kirby Moore’s first season has been an abject failure
Hindsight being what it is, maybe it should’ve been easier to see this coming. On their third coach in three seasons with their depth pillaged like a Yukon gold rush stake left unprotected, expectations of the Washington State Cougars finishing at or near the top of the revamped Pac-12 were, perhaps, lofty. Not many programs […]
Reds Pitching Coach Search: 3 Candidates to Replace Derek Johnson
Following a mysterious coaching departure, Cincinnati must find the right mentor to harness a rotation featuring Hunter Greene and Chase Burns. Meet the three top contenders.
Amidst changing college landscape, NC State's next hire looms large following firing of Dave Doeren
For NC State, the coaching change raises broader questions about stability and the direction of its athletics programs at a time of significant change across college sports.
What McVay’s Cryptic Vague Update Means for Myles Garrett, Terrance Ferguson
Are Myles Garrett and Terrance Ferguson returning to the Rams this week? Head coach Sean McVay just provided a vague update on the injured stars. The post What McVay’s Cryptic Vague Update Means for Myles Garrett, Terrance Ferguson appeared first on LA Sports Report.
Ravens' Jesse Minter Unsure of Severity of Vega Ioane Injury
Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter is unsure how severe the injury to rookie guard Vega Ioane is.
Inside Mike McCarthy's high praise for OL Coach James Campen
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy calls James Campen the best offensive line coach in the NFL while praising young blocking talent.
Tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad are expected to fly in for pivotal vote
Tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad are expected to fly in for this month’s election. That's according to AID Coalition, a U.S.-based nonprofit focused on strengthening Israel’s democracy.
Ravens HC Jesse Minter Offers Injury Update on Lamar Jackson
Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter offered an injury update on Lamar Jackson.
Empath Health expands dementia support services for Suncoast families
Empath Health is expanding its dementia services across the Suncoast, offering families and caregivers access to education, support groups, Memory Cafés and other resources to help navigate a dementia diagnosis.
Water quality health advisory lifted for Eastern Lake in Walton County
The advisory had previously been issued due to elevated bacterial concentrations in the coastal dune lake.
Rhule rundown: Bye week recap, scouting Washington
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule met with media on Monday morning to recap the bye week and preview the Huskers’ Saturday night matchup against Washington at Memorial Stadium.
Wilmington Health facility sells for $9.4M
Wilmington Health’s main facility recently sold for more than $9 million. The 66,000-square-foot facility located at 1202 Medical Center Drive was purchased by Charlotte-based real estate investment firm Cedar Square in a $9.4 million sale-leaseback transaction, according to a deed recorded Oct. 21. Wilmington Health will continue leasing the facility, CEO Jeff James told the Business Journal in September. James said the lease term would likely be five years, with most services eventually transferring to a new medical office building under construction in the Midtown Park office area near The Pointe at Barclay. The Wilmington Health facility was originally listed earlier this year at $11.85 million. A Wilmington Health representative did not respond to a request for comment by press time. Steve Hall, vice president of BlueCoast Commercial, represented Wilmington Health in the transaction. “Wilmington Health wanted to unlock the value in its real estate without disrupting a single patient visit, and a sale-leaseback let them do exactly that,” said Hall in a text to the Business Journal Monday. “Cedar Square gets a long-term, absolute net investment anchored by one of the region’s leading physician groups, and Wilmington Health keeps its home on Medical Center Drive while redeploying that capital into care.” The sale marks Cedar Square’s first entry into the Wilmington market, according to Jon Dixon, the firm's managing partner and founder. “We are attracted to Wilmington's growth and what we see as strong long-term fundamentals,” said Dixon in an email Monday. “Population growth, relative affordability, and quality of life make it a compelling market for us. The climate and proximity to the coast are a big part of that appeal.” He added, “We hope to pursue additional opportunities across retail, industrial, medical office and multifamily in Wilmington. We will evaluate opportunities individually and remain disciplined about the properties we pursue. We would like this acquisition to be the beginning of a broader investment presence in Wilmington.” Given the facility’s age, Dixon said the site could eventually be redeveloped, potentially for medical office space or housing. Dixon said recent announcements from UNC Health and Atrium were among the factors behind the firm’s growing interest in Wilmington’s medical-office market. The announcements involve competing proposals for hospital expansion in New Hanover County, which are subject to the state’s Certificate of Need process. “Medical office remains one of the most sought-after asset classes in commercial real estate,” said Hall, “and well-located (medical office buildings) with strong operators are scarce in Southeastern North Carolina.” According to Dixon, Cedar Square describes itself as a boutique, hands-on real estate investment firm that values direct relationships with tenants and the communities where it owns property. “We’re very hands-on, and we like to be in direct contact with all of our tenants and the communities in which we own,” Dixon said. He added, “We’re definitely interested in building a presence with local owners, brokers and businesses or tenants.”