Lakeland, FL -- Glenn Higgins, in his ninth year as a Lakeland City Commissioner, has announced that he will seek re-election for the Lakeland City Commission North East District Seat.

Higgins said in a statement, “Lakeland, like much of the country, faces significant challenges. Now more than ever citizens need elected officials who will stand up for them and represent their interests.”  He added, “As a commitment to the citizens of Lakeland, I will make the most informed and knowledgeable decisions possible and I will always be an advocate for the residents with the best interest of the community in my heart.”

Higgins retired from the Army as a lieutenant colonel in 1979 and in 1997 retired from Polk County Schools where he was the senior ROTC instructor at Lake Gibson High School. He was inducted into the Lake Gibson High School Hall of Fame in 2005.

Washington, DC -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is giving Governor Rick Scott some extra time to change his mind about federal funds for high speed rail.

The two met Friday in Washington, a day after Scott rejected a last-ditch effort by local leaders in the Tampa Bay to Orlando corridor to save the $2.3 billion in federal funds.

Here is the statement sent to 10 News from DOT Secretary LaHood:

"This morning I met with Governor Rick Scott to discuss the high speed rail project that will create jobs and economic development for the entire state of Florida. He asked me for additional information about the state's role in this project, the responsibilities of the Florida Department of Transportation, as well as how the state would be protected from liability. I have decided to give Governor Scott additional time to review the agreement crafted by local officials from Orlando, Tampa, Lakeland and Miami, and to consult with his staff at the state Department of Transportation. He has committed to making a final decision by the end of next week. I feel we owe it to the people of Florida, who have been working to bring high speed rail to their state for the last 20 years, to go the extra mile."

Winter Haven, Florida - Swaying to the beat and gesturing with his hands, Demarin Burgess gives 10 News a sample of his rapping. "That's my word, I'm never giving up."

The 18-year-old high school senior says he loves to rap. "I get that feeling with it-just excited."

And a music video the teen helped create is gathering some steam on YouTube. The song called "Never Say Can't" encourages kids to reach for their dreams.