Business
Twitter-Musk Takeover Dispute Heading for an October Trial
Published
3 years agoon
Tesla CEO Elon Musk lost his fight to delay Twitter’s lawsuit against him as a Delaware judge on Tuesday set an October trial, citing the “cloud of uncertainty” over the social media company after the billionaire backed out of a deal to buy it.
“Delay threatens irreparable harm,” said Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick, the head judge of Delaware’s Court of Chancery, which handles many high-profile business disputes. “The longer the delay, the greater the risk.”
Twitter had asked for an expedited trial in September, while Musk’s team called for waiting until early next year because of the complexity of the case. McCormick said Musk’s team underestimated the Delaware court’s ability to “quickly process complex litigation.”
Twitter is trying to force the billionaire to make good on his April promise to buy the social media giant for $44 billion — and the company wants it to happen quickly because it says the ongoing dispute is harming its business.
Musk, the world’s richest man, pledged to pay $54.20 a share for Twitter, but informed the company in July that he wants to back out of the agreement.
“It’s attempted sabotage. He’s doing his best to run Twitter down,” said attorney William Savitt, representing Twitter before McCormick on Tuesday. The hearing was held virtually after McCormick said she tested positive for COVID-19.
Musk has claimed the company has failed to provide adequate information about the number of fake, or “spam bot,” Twitter accounts, and that it has breached its obligations under the deal by firing top managers and laying off a significant number of employees. Musk’s team expects more information about the bot numbers to be revealed in the trial court discovery process, when both sides must hand over evidence.
Twitter argues that Musk’s reasons for backing out are just a cover for buyer’s remorse after agreeing to pay 38% above Twitter’s stock price shortly before the stock market stumbled and shares of the electric-car maker Tesla, where most of Musk’s personal wealth resides, lost more than $100 billion of their value.
Savitt said the contested merger agreement and Musk’s tweets disparaging the company were inflicting harm on the business and questioned Musk’s request for a delayed trial, asking “whether the real plan is to run out the clock.”
“He’s banking on wriggling out of the deal he signed,” Savitt said.
But the idea the Tesla CEO is trying to damage Twitter is “preposterous. He has no interest in damaging the company,” said Musk attorney Andrew Rossman, noting he is Twitter’s second largest shareholder with a “far larger stake” than the company’s entire board of directors.
Savitt emphasized the importance of an expedited trial starting in September for Twitter to be able to make important business decisions affecting everything from employee retention to relationships with suppliers and customers.
Rossman said more time is needed because it is “one of the largest take-private deals in history” involving a “company that has a massive amount of data that has to be analyzed. Billions of actions on their platform have to be analyzed.”
Tobias said it’s still possible that Musk and Twitter will settle the case before it goes to trial, since both might find a drawn-out fight or the judge’s final decisions costly to their businesses and reputations. One option is that Musk could pay the $1 billion breakup fee both he and Twitter agreed to if either was deemed responsible for the deal falling through. Or Twitter could push for him to pay more to make up for damages – just not the full $44 billion acquisition.
“Does Musk really want to run that company? Do they really want Musk to run that company?” Tobias said. “They could always settle somewhere in between.”
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Business
FNN Highlights Managing Editor Monica Hoyos During National Hispanic Heritage Month
Published
2 weeks agoon
October 14, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News continues its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month by spotlighting another Hispanic leader within its network — Managing Editor Monica Hoyos, a proud first-generation Colombian American whose professional journey reflects her passion for communication, cultural connection, and community empowerment.
A Career Built on Connection and Communication
Monica holds a B.A. in Communications and Spanish from Old Dominion University and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL from George Mason University. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to bridging language and cultural gaps as both a professional interpreter and voiceover actor, bringing clarity and authenticity to English and Spanish audiences alike.
In 2025, Monica joined Florida National News as Managing Editor, Reporter, and Co-Host of the FNN News Podcast en Español, where she uplifts diverse voices through storytelling, interviews, and press coverage that reflect the heart of the Hispanic community.
Empowering Communities Through Leadership
Beyond her work with FNN, Monica serves as an Independent Contractor, working as Lead Project Manager for Esther Wise Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and as Senior Project Manager for Aravicta, a minority- and women-owned business offering professional speaking, coaching, and communication training for leaders and executives.
In both roles, Monica leverages her leadership and expertise to strengthen community initiatives, create inclusive programs, and promote representation for underrepresented voices across various industries.
Celebrating Heritage and Representation
Monica embraces her Colombian heritage with pride and purpose. She views Hispanic Heritage Month as both a celebration and a responsibility.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor our roots while celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of our community,” said Hoyos. “I carry my family’s journey and culture with me in every role I take on, and I’m committed to opening doors for others to do the same.”
Through her work, Monica continues to embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring her roots, connecting cultures, and empowering others to raise their voices.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
ORRA President Lawrence Beillo Shares Expert Tips on Homebuying Trends with FNN TV
Published
2 weeks agoon
October 9, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News TV Talks Real Estate welcomes special guest Lawrence Bedillo, President of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA), for an in-depth discussion on Florida’s housing market and the latest trends shaping homeownership this fall.
Market Insight:
A recent Realtor.com study identifies October 12–18, 2025, as the best week to buy a home this year. During this key period, buyers can expect more listings, lower prices, and reduced competition. According to the report, homebuyers could save over $15,000 compared to peak summer prices as inventory rises and homes stay on the market longer.
Expert Perspective:
In the exclusive video interview, ORRA President Lawrence Beillo shares his insights on what this means for Central Florida buyers and sellers, offering valuable advice on navigating the market, preparing for purchases, and making informed decisions during this ideal buying window.
Watch the full video interview with ORRA President Lawrence Beillo on the Florida National News TV platform and Facebook channels.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
“Bar Rescue” Star Jon Taffer Launches Florida’s First Taffer’s Tavern in Orlando
Published
3 weeks agoon
October 2, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Hospitality entrepreneur and “Bar Rescue” host Jon Taffer has announced the official grand opening of Taffer’s Tavern Orlando on Wednesday, October 15. Located along International Drive, the debut marks the franchise’s first Florida location and introduces a refreshed design, reimagined menu, and immersive brand experience that Taffer calls the blueprint for the brand’s national expansion.
FNN Good News & Reviews is set to capture the one-of-a-kind experience as hospitality mogul Jon Taffer brings his Taffer’s Tavern franchise to Orlando with a highly anticipated grand opening on October 15, on I-Drive. The new tavern unveils a reimagined menu, spirit-infused sauces, and an exclusive lineup of signature cocktails, highlighted by Taffer’s own Browned Butter Bourbon.
A New Era for Taffer’s Tavern
Franchisee Nilesh Patel, a seasoned hospitality operator, brings the Orlando location to life in one of the city’s busiest entertainment districts. Just steps away from hotels, convention centers, and attractions, the tavern is positioned to welcome a mix of locals, tourists, and business travelers.
“Orlando is the perfect city to debut Taffer’s Tavern in Florida,” Patel said. “With its energy, diversity, and constant flow of visitors, it’s an ideal backdrop for the elevated tavern experience Jon has created.”
Elevated Comfort Food with Spirit-Infused Flavors
Inspired by traditional Old World pubs, Taffer’s Tavern features bold comfort food crafted with modern flair. Spirit-forward sauces developed with Taffer’s spirits portfolio infuse familiar dishes with innovative flavor. Menu highlights include:
Bourbon Burger – Browned Butter Bourbon sauce, glazed caramelized onions, whiskey bacon, cheddar, brioche bun ($17.95)
Hangover Wings – Twice-cooked chicken wings with flavors like michelada, tequila lime, and cinnamon whiskey ($12.95)
Whiskey Business Burger – Whiskey ketchup, bacon, arugula, fried egg, provolone, American cheese, brioche bun ($18.95)
Salted Caramel Triple Chocolate Brownie – Served with house-made honey bourbon ice cream and spiced rum caramel ($13.95)
Jon Taffer’s Vision for Expansion
Taffer says Orlando will serve as the model for future franchises. “This expansion into Orlando is more than just launching another location—it’s the blueprint for the future of Taffer’s Tavern,” he explained. “We’ve built a model that’s smarter, stronger, and designed to scale. Orlando is a natural fit for our brand, a city that thrives on energy, excitement, and hospitality.”
In addition to its food menu, the tavern features proprietary cocktails built around Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon, a whiskey with bold vanilla and toffee notes, inspired by Taffer’s work on “Bar Rescue.”
For reservations and franchise opportunities, visit tafferstavern.com.
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