Across Florida, barbecue smoke drifts through neighborhoods, fireworks tents have sprung up on street corners, and retailers are advertising sales on everything from mattresses to lawn mowers.
It all points to one thing: Independence Day has arrived.
Happy birthday, America. Two hundred fifty is a lot of birthday punches to the metaphorical arm.
Whether your plans include grilling, heading to the beach, or watching fireworks, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering another option: free admission to state parks this weekend.
DEP announced last week that, to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, all residents and visitors are welcome to explore, discover, or, in some cases, rediscover, for free, the beauty the Sunshine State has to offer by waiving admission fees from Friday, July 3, 2026, through Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Florida State Parks.
Florida’s award-winning state parks have something for everyone, from outdoor recreation opportunities for the whole family to caverns, wetlands, beaches and springs. Partake in the fun with hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, swimming, paddling and horseback riding. And because it’s the Fourth of July, why not also check out the amazing historic sites, including forts, battlefields, archaeological sites and other historic landmarks?
“While every July 4 is special, we recognize this Independence Day is a significant moment in our nation’s history. I invite all Floridians, their friends and their family to our state parks to enjoy the outdoors, make new memories and support our treasured public lands,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert.
And just know it’s not a waste of the day, as the Florida State Park system is the only four-time winner of the NRPA’s National Gold Medal Award, showcasing how much the state invests in protecting natural resources while maintaining public access and environmental stewardship.
And it pays to be great, as over the last fiscal year Florida State Parks saw more than 28 million visitors come through their nature-made doors, generating an estimated $3.6 billion in statewide economic impact.
There are a few exclusions to the free admission: Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Skyway Fishing Pier State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Also note that free admission applies to day use only. All other fees, including overnight accommodations, special events, concessions and rentals, will remain in effect.
Plan your trip now; it’s not too late. Make sure to visit FloridaStateParks.org to find the nearest park near you. And if you want to feel patriotic with a Florida twist, you can bask in the 27th state in the Union’s awesomeness at America250FL.com.
Now go watch some videos of bald eagles and late-’90s NFL highlights to get your adrenaline pumping in the name of the USA. It’s what George Washington would want.
___
Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida’s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics.
But first, the “Takeaway 5” — the Top 5 stories from the week that was:
— Take 5 —
Signed — Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a $117.6 billion state budget this week, delivering a shrinking spending plan for the fourth year in a row. In exercising his veto pen, DeSantis quipped, “I’m not trying to set a record here at this point. I’ve been there, done that. I have that T-shirt.” In 2022, DeSantis vetoed a record-breaking $3.1 billion in state budget funds. DeSantis said he vetoed items that he either considered “either inappropriate or maybe nice to have.” The Governor touted the state’s spending plan as investing billions to accelerate road construction projects, increase teacher pay and make major investments in cancer research. The new budget also sets aside $665 million for restoring the Everglades.
The cuts — DeSantis’ final budget as Governor includes nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes, with another $750 million the Legislature wanted to transfer into the state’s rainy-day fund. The House passed a proposed constitutional amendment last year that would increase the mandated cap on the budget stabilization fund. This year, the Legislature added a potential $750 million transfer to ensure the state would be prepared for the new requirement. Additionally, the term-limited Governor vetoed $91.5 million to increase correctional officers’ salaries. Government watchdog Florida TaxWatch previously urged DeSantis to shoot down 621 projects or “budget turkeys” worth $830 million in the 2026-27 fiscal year budget. DeSantis vetoed 184 out of the 621 appropriations from the budget the group wanted slashed.
Staying on the sidelines — DeSantis says he’s not planning to be formally involved with any political committee to campaign for the proposed amendment after the Legislature changed his proposal. “If someone asked me to do something, I’m not saying I wouldn’t. But in terms of leading the effort, in terms of me saying, ‘Here we go, we’re going to do this.’ We’re going to do all that; I’m not going to do it,” DeSantis said in response to media questions at his budget signing news conference. “The reason is what the Legislature did wasn’t my proposal.” DeSantis’ comments come after he spent months traveling across the state loudly pushing for property tax cuts during his official Governor press conferences and during media interviews.
DQ suit — Gubernatorial candidate Jay Collins filed a lawsuit challenging GOP Primary opponent James Fishback’s eligibility for office. Collins filed a complaint in the Leon County Circuit Court, arguing that Fishback does not meet the seven-year Florida residency requirement. The legal complaint notes that Fishback filed to vote in Washington, D.C., in November 2020 and voted in city elections. The lawsuit notes that in order to register there, Fishback had to establish he was a legal resident of the District of Columbia, and that he “did not claim voting residence or the right to vote in any other state or territory, including Florida.” Florida Politics reported on the residency questions in December. Fishback claimed Collins challenge was “nothing more than a desperate and illegal attempt to stop [Fishback’s] momentum.”
Better late than never — It has been 77 years, but the state of Florida has finally approved compensation for the descendants of the Groveland 4. “While no amount of money can erase the pain of the injustice they endured, this $4 million represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of the harm that was done and our responsibility to make it right,” said Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis, who shepherded the efforts through the Legislature this year. The Legislature in 2017 formally apologized to the victims, and in 2019, DeSantis, a newly elected first-term Governor, delivered on his campaign promise to posthumously pardon the Groveland 4.
— One last time —
“We’re gonna teach ’em how to say goodbye.”
This week, DeSantis signed the Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27, a $117.6 billion spending plan that aims to reflect eight years of conservative leadership fueled by fiscal discipline.
There were nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes, and it is the fourth year in a row of declining state spending, while still throwing a bone to education, infrastructure, public safety, environmental conservation and economic opportunity.
“Over the last seven and a half years, Florida has set the national standard for conservative governance, while breaking record after record in economic strength, education, and environmental stewardship. We’ve delivered billions in tax relief to families while making historic investments in the priorities that matter most to Floridians,” said DeSantis.
“The FY 2026-27 budget I signed today reflects the core priorities I laid out from the beginning. This budget protects taxpayers’ interests, cuts spending for the fourth year in a row, and makes meaningful investments to build on Florida’s successes in education, public safety, environmental conservation, infrastructure, cancer research, and more. I’m proud that Florida continues to serve as the prime example of fiscal responsibility and government that works for the people of our state.”
Some highlights touted by the Governor as his eight-year run winds to a close: the state is maxing out its rainy-day fund to the constitutional limit of $5.0 billion (up from $1.5 billion), maintaining a balanced budget, and earning AAA credit ratings from every major credit rating agency, and growing the state’s reserves to nearly $18 billion.
All while giving Floridians nearly $9.7 billion in tax relief, including the repeal of the commercial rent tax.
Read the 2026-27 budget highlights here.
— FICO FAFO —
Attorney General James Uthmeier is launching a civil investigation into the company at the forefront of issuing consumer credit risk reports.
Uthmeier says he has started a “civil investigative demand” and issued a civil subpoena to Fair Isaac Corp. (FICO). That’s the company behind the FICO score, which lenders across America use to determine credit risk. FICO is based in Bozeman, Montana.
The company is being investigated by Florida’s top prosecutor amid questions about whether FICO has engaged in anticompetitive conduct. Uthmeier said he’s investigating to see whether Florida’s Antitrust Act has been violated.
“Floridians deserve fair access to credit — not a system controlled by one company that repeatedly jacks up prices and blocks competition,” Uthmeier said in a news release.
“These skyrocketing costs are passed directly to consumers, making it harder for families to buy homes, finance cars, and secure essential services. My office will not tolerate monopoly abuse that harms Florida families.”
He went on to say that FICO has maintained its monopoly in the credit-scoring market for decades. Uthmeier said credit-scoring prices have risen dramatically in recent years. He went on to say the conduct might include predatory pricing, illegal product “bundling,” exclusionary contracts with major credit bureaus, and efforts to block competitors.
Uthmeier said his case is an offshoot of ongoing federal antitrust litigation. Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri has also raised questions about FICO and the company’s pricing practices.
— Book ‘em —
Attorney General Uthmeier says five people have been arrested in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud public assistance programs in Central Florida.
Uthmeier said the suspects are believed to have stolen electronic benefit transfer (EBT) information and personal identification information (PII) from multiple victims in the Orlando area. According to Uthmeier, they used the information to purchase goods such as Monster and Red Bull energy drinks, coffee and bottled water, among other items. The suspects then turned around and sold the goods.
“Florida is not going to tolerate organized schemes that steal taxpayer-funded benefits intended for Florida families,” Uthmeier said in a news release. “We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify every individual connected to this scheme and hold them accountable.”
The Orlando Police Department cracked the case. Some of the crimes extended into Seminole County as well.
The five suspects arrested include Carlos Ruben Gomez Jimenez, Maite Lazara Mesa Labrada, Carlos Luis Diaz Jimenez, Enrique Gonzalez and Luis Gonzalez Dominguez. Carlos Ruben Gomez Jimenez and Labrada both entered the U.S. illegally two years ago, according to Uthmeier.
All five suspects face charges of an organized scheme to defraud less than $20,000 and public assistance fraud of $200 or more but less than $20,000. Both Jimenezes are also charged with criminal use of PII involving EBT accounts of more than 10 victims. Dominguez is also charged with criminal use of PII. Carlos Luis Diaz Jimenez and Gonzalez are also charged with dealing in stolen property.
— FDLE meet UCF —
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced a partnership with UCF that will embed FDLE experts at the school’s Academic Health Sciences Campus and relocate its toxicology laboratory to the Lake Nona facility.
The end goal is to better connect academic-industry research with workforce development and forensic testing in one of the nation’s fastest-growing medical and technology fields.
“This partnership reflects what UCF was built to do — bring talent, technology and applied research together in service to Florida. By welcoming the FDLE Orlando Toxicology Lab to UCF’s Academic Health Sciences Campus, we are bringing state forensic operations closer to faculty expertise and future workforce, creating opportunities to make smarter use of public resources while strengthening the knowledge, talent and tools available to keep Floridians safe,” stated UCF President Alexander Cartwright.
The old FDLE Orlando Toxicology Lab, which was in downtown Orlando, handled up to 10,000 cases per year. The new partnership aims to modernize forensic services and create a talent pipeline that connects the university and the field.
“Through this partnership between FDLE and UCF, we are investing in the future of forensic science,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.
“This partnership enhances our ability to recruit highly trained forensic scientists, develop new techniques and deliver timely, high-quality results to law enforcement agencies for investigations.”
UCF brings to the table strong credentials, including one of the country’s oldest forensic science programs, established in 1974. The university also ranks No. 6 nationally for bachelor’s degree programs in forensic science, according to CriminalJusticeDegreeSchools.com.
“The closer our researchers are to operational labs, the more responsive and impactful their work becomes. We’re able to identify challenges in real time and immediately begin working on solutions,” added UCF chemistry professor and director of the National Center for Forensic Science, Jack Ballantyne.
— Instagram of the week —
— Safety and style —
Who says being stylish doesn’t matter? This week, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officially entered the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) “Best Looking Cruiser” competition while staying on theme for America’s 250th anniversary. Stylish, functional, and patriotic.
“Join me in celebrating 250 years of American strength and progress, while also celebrating the iconic black-and-tan cruiser and the heroes who drive them,” said Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
“While the contest is a fun opportunity to showcase the best of law enforcement across the country, it also supports a truly important cause, which is giving back to the men and women who wear the badge. A vote for FHP is a vote for Florida.”
Florida is on fire right now (and we aren’t talking weather). For the last three years, FHP’s classic black-and-tan cruisers have earned the “Best Looking Cruiser” title, making Florida the only state in contest history to go back-to-back-to-back.
To go for the four-peat, FHP needs your help. Online voting opened on Monday and runs through Monday, July 13, 2026, at noon. The top 13 states with the most votes will be featured in the 2027 wall calendar, and the top vote-getter will earn the cover.
“The members of the Florida Highway Patrol take great pride in the vehicles that support our mission every day. Our black-and-tan cruiser is more than a symbol of service — it’s an iconic reflection of the dedication and professionalism of every Florida State Trooper patrolling the roadways of the Free State of Florida. We appreciate the continued support from communities across Florida and beyond as we compete once again in this year’s American Association of State Troopers national contest,” said Gary Howze, Colonel of the Florida Highway Patrol.
The annual contest was created by the American Association of State Troopers, founded by Florida State Troopers in 1989 and headquartered in Tallahassee.
Learn how to cast your vote here.
— Parks payday —
GOAT status might not be an understatement when it comes to our parks.
This week, the spirit of Theodore Roosevelt, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and true Floridians alike celebrated with the Florida State Parks Foundation as it announced that $44.5 million in the 2026-27 budget has been allocated to help Florida’s state parks maintain their status as the very best in the nation.
“This generous budget is a clear sign that Gov. DeSantis, our state representatives and our Senators understand how much our state parks mean to Floridians and to visitors from all over the world. We are thrilled to see this reflected in the budget and appreciate all the support that our state parks receive from our state’s leaders,” said former state Rep. Matt Caldwell, the current President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Some of the funding highlights include money for facility improvements, such as the new Discovery Center and Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Monroe County, which recently broke ground on Earth Day.
“Our state parks are a tremendous source of pride for the state of Florida,” said Foundation board member and state Rep. Allison Tant.
“Not only are they home to pristine beaches, springs, trails and wildlife habitat, but they also provide incredible value and return on investment while serving as major economic drivers for our state and local communities.”
To help ensure more funding in future years, the Florida State Parks Foundation has hosted events such as “Legislative Days,” which include a reception at the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, followed by one-on-one meetings between Foundation Board members and elected officials.
“One of the Florida State Parks Foundation’s primary goals is to create ‘Legislative Champions’ at the Capitol,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation.
“We believe that when our state’s leaders experience the parks for themselves and see the incredible benefits they create for Florida’s environment and economy, it’s then easy to prioritize state parks in the budget and provide them with necessary funding.”
— ♫ Shiny teeth and me ♫ —
This week, Rep. Jervonte Edmonds celebrated the signing of HB 253, the Dental Care for Veterans Act, which expands access to critical dental services for Florida veterans through the state’s Veterans Dental Care Grant Program.
“Too many Florida veterans have had to choose between paying for dental care and paying for everyday necessities,” said Edmonds.
“HB 253 is about opening the door to care for more veterans and ensuring that those who served our nation are not left behind when it comes to their health. This law means more Floridians will be able to access preventative care, restorative treatment, and services that can improve their quality of life.”
The bill, sponsored by Edmonds and Sen. Barbara Sharief, passed both chambers of the Legislature unanimously and expands eligibility for the Veterans Dental Care Grant Program by increasing the income threshold from 300% to 400% of the federal poverty level.
“This legislation reflects a simple principle: when veterans need care, we should be finding ways to help more people, not fewer. Today, Florida is taking an important step toward ensuring that more veterans can receive the dental care they deserve,” Edmonds said.
The bill took effect on July 1.
— 30 Milly for Palm Beach —
Isn’t it great when your elected official acts on behalf of you and your community to make meaningful change?
With the budget signed and the veto list scoured, Sen. Mack Bernard is touting funding for 23 appropriations projects totaling more than $30 million for Palm Beach County.
“Bringing home funding to Palm Beach County is one of the most important parts of my job, and it’s one I take very seriously,” Bernard said.
“The more than $30 million invested in our community will help improve schools, roads, and other infrastructure while supporting students with special needs and local nonprofits like the Boys and Girls Club. These are exactly the kind of projects our tax dollars should be supporting, and I’m proud to help direct those funds back to Palm Beach County.”
The funding includes $1.5 million for the Boys & Girls Club & Teen Workforce Readiness Center of West Palm Beach, $440,000 for program enhancements at Roosevelt Elementary School, and $1.5 million to complete a special needs facility through The Arc of Palm Beach County.
Infrastructure projects are also included, with $2 million for drainage improvements along Australian Avenue and $1.5 million for a new water treatment plant in Riviera Beach.
We’re sure the people of Palm Beach County will appreciate the upgrades — sooner or later.
— Palm Beach County cha-ching —
♫♫ “And Peggy!” ♫♫
It clearly pays to have good elected officials where you live. As Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the state budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27, one Representative ensured funding for her county’s needs.
This week, Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman is taking a victory lap for the $32,408,560 in state funding she secured for communities across Palm Beach County during the 2026 Legislative Session.
Some of the funding she secured is going toward investments in higher education, public safety, healthcare, infrastructure, drinking water, environmental restoration, workforce development and nonprofit organizations.
And this isn’t a one-time event.
Since taking office in 2022, Rep. Gossett-Seidman has secured more than $75.4 million in state funding for projects in Boca Raton, Highland Beach and other smaller communities in Palm Beach County.
One of the big highlights this year includes a $20 million investment for Florida Atlantic University’s Health Professions Training & Research Facility.
Other noteworthy projects funded this year for Palm Beach County include Boca School for Autism, security enhancements at the Palm Beach Zoo and Habitat, and pedestrian safety and traffic improvements in Highland Beach.
There was also $1 million for improvements at the intersection of Delray Beach’s Swinton Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, and $1.2 million for the Indian River Lagoon seagrass and water quality recovery initiative.
Not a bad year overall for the Rep and PBC residents.
— Shellfish subsidy sinks —
One of the fishier budget items of the 2026 Legislative Session ultimately didn’t survive Gov. DeSantis’ veto pen.
Among the nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes was a $500,000 appropriation for the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Workforce Development Program, a proposal that drew attention after it earmarked taxpayer dollars to help cover the salary and benefits of the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Association’s Executive Director while also funding work the position would oversee.
The request, sponsored by Rep. Chad Johnson, was pitched as a workforce development initiative to help rebuild Florida’s shellfish industry through internships, training and curriculum development.
But the funding also raised eyebrows because the association’s Executive Director, Adrianne Johnson, is a registered lobbyist, creating optics that critics argued blurred the line between workforce development and taxpayer support for an industry advocate.
In the end, the Governor decided the appropriation didn’t pass the smell test.
— Orange you glad for investments? —
We’ve got the best OJ in the nation, and it’s because of investments like this.
Monday, DeSantis signed the 2026-27 budget, which allocates nearly $196 million for Florida’s citrus industry. The funding includes research, field trials, nursery and packing equipment infrastructure, and marketing.
“We have overcome challenge after challenge caused by citrus greening and hurricanes, and now we have promising new tools, technologies and varieties that can help accelerate recovery and strengthen the long-term viability of Florida citrus,” said Matt Joyner, Executive Vice President and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual.
“These resources will help growers adopt proven solutions more quickly, restore production, strengthen critical industry infrastructure and secure the future of Florida’s iconic crop so that it can continue contributing to our economy, environment and way of life for generations to come.”
The funding includes $160 million for citrus research through the Citrus Research and Field Trial (CRAFT) program and an additional $20 million for Citrus Nursery and Packing Equipment Grants to purchase or rehabilitate equipment for citrus nurseries and packinghouses.
Another $5 million will go toward nonrecurring funding for Florida Department of Citrus marketing efforts, $4.5 million for basic citrus research through the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, $2.25 million for the Crop Transformation Center, $2 million for the Citrus Recovery Program, and $2 million for the Citrus Budwood Program to expand propagation of citrus greening-tolerant or -resistant budwood trees and seedlings.
— FBHA budget praise —
The Florida Behavioral Health Association is thanking Gov. DeSantis for signing a budget that continues the administration’s investment in community mental health and substance use disorder services.
“Behavioral health touches every community in Florida, and this budget reflects the importance of ensuring individuals and families have access to quality mental health and substance use disorder services,” said FBHA President and CEO Melanie Brown Woofter.
“In a year of fiscal discipline, the state’s investment in mental health and substance use disorder services demonstrates a clear recognition of the critical role these services play in improving the health, safety, and well-being of individuals and families in every community. Through his continued investment in Florida’s behavioral health system, the Governor has helped expand access to care, strengthen community-based services, and support providers serving Floridians across the state.”
The association also credited the Governor’s support over the past eight years with helping expand access to care, strengthen community-based services and support providers serving patients across the state.
FBHA, which represents more than 70 community mental health and substance use treatment providers from Pensacola to Key West, also thanked First Lady Casey DeSantis and members of the Legislature for their work to improve Florida’s behavioral health system.
— Clerks crew —
The Clerk of Courts Operations Corp. (CCOC) has installed its new leadership to oversee the organization that assists Florida’s court system supervisors.
The CCOC held its Summer Conference and named its 2026-2027 Executive Council and elected its Executive Committee.
Clay County Clerk of Court Tara Green will return to the organization in her role as Chair of the Executive Council. Also returning to their same roles will be Todd Newton, Gilchrist County Clerk of Courts, who will remain Vice-Chair and Michelle Miller, St. Lucie County Clerk, who will remain as Secretary-Treasurer.
Meanwhile, Juan Fernandez-Barquin, the Miami-Dade County Clerk, will transition from his previous role as House Appointee in the CCOC to Clerk Representative after the CCOC members voted and approved him to fill the position previously held by Tiffany Moore Russell, Clerk of Orange County.
— Historic Florida engineers —
The Rattlers are building something special right here in Tallahassee.
A few months ago, the Spring 2026 graduating class at the Florida A&M University–Florida State University College of Engineering became the largest graduating cohort of FAMU engineering students since the start of the 21st century.
For the university and faculty members who have witnessed that growth firsthand, it showcases intentional recruitment, expanded academic support, and a purposeful approach to student development.
“Graduating the largest group of FAMU engineers from the joint college since the turn of the millennium is evidence that what we’ve built here is working,” said Suvranu De, Dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.
“Our enrollment has grown, our support infrastructure has matured, and our faculty have deepened their investment in student success. These were students who were recruited intentionally, supported consistently and graduated because we built systems designed to get them there.”
Over the last five years, FAMU undergraduate enrollment at the joint college has increased by 66% and, according to De, is rooted in a comprehensive approach that starts well before students step on campus and continues long after the cap and gown.
Those gains have also been fueled by student success in the Engineering Student Access Program, which is supported through Florida A&M University’s Title III Programs.
Of the 40 first-time-in-college students in the graduating cohort, 34 participated in engineering access initiatives — nearly 85% of the class.
“For me, this moment is deeply personal because it represents a journey that began decades ago. As a student at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in the 1990s, I experienced firsthand what the college meant to students on both campuses. There was a strong sense of community, pride and responsibility to help the next generation succeed,” said Charmane V. Caldwell, Director of Student Access at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.
“The key has always been creating an environment where students feel like they belong before they ever question whether they can succeed. Engineering is challenging, and students need a community that pushes them, supports them and reminds them they are not facing those challenges alone.”
— First of its kind —
Florida State University (FSU) is entering into a unique partnership with the United Nations (U.N.) to enhance research in sport ecology.
The partnership is the first of its kind, according to an FSU news release. FSU will be teaming up with the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization to link sport and environmental sciences and influence global policy.
It will be a four-year partnership between FSU and the U.N. and will involve working with peer institutions across six continents, according to the FSU news release. FSU is one of 33 U.S.-based schools taking part in the project. There are 14 chairs designated to oversee the project, and FSU will have one of those chairs.
“Holding the world’s first UNESCO Chair in sport ecology is a distinct honor for Florida State University, and a recognition that sport’s relationship with the environment is worthy of serious study,” said Timothy Kellison, FSU’s chairholder and an Associate Professor of Sport Management within the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.
Sport ecology is a discipline that studies the relationship between sports and the natural environment. That can include the study of carbon emissions, energy use and facility construction associated with different sports and how those impact environmental change.
— Business savvy vets —
Teaching veterans the keys to success with the Noles.
This month, Florida State University (FSU)’s Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship celebrated the completion of the 2026 Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families (EBV-F) and its first cohort, held in Tallahassee from June 8-12.
It was a five-day program that brought together veterans, military spouses and family members from across the Big Bend region to learn the pathway to successful entrepreneurship and business ownership through various hands-on workshops, mentorship and networking opportunities.
Participants gained practical tools and expertise from some of the best and brightest minds in the state in marketing, financial management, leadership and strategic growth.
“Entrepreneurship is more than starting a business — it’s about creating opportunities, building communities and empowering individuals to recognize their own potential. It’s a privilege to support this year’s remarkable cohort of veteran spouses, caregivers and family members as they leverage their unique experiences, resilience and dedication to build businesses that drive meaningful change,” said Melissa Roberts, Director of Veterans Programs at the Jim Moran Institute.
During the program, there was a large emphasis on collaboration, innovation and the unique strengths that veterans and their military families specifically bring to the business community.
An untapped area, potentially.
Graduates are now part of the ever-growing network of alumni from the EBV-F program and the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship.
For more information about the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families and other Jim Moran Institute programs, visit the Jim Moran Institute website.
— Face of the month —
Mark your calendar. In this case, literally.
On Tuesday, June 30, Tallahassee State College (TSC) announced it is now accepting nominations for its annual Cherry Hall Alexander African American History Calendar (AAHC) — a distinguished annual tradition in North Florida that recognizes and celebrates African American trailblazers from across the Big Bend region.
This year’s theme? “From Print to Pixels: Black Creators and Communicators.” It’s all about shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who have made a lasting impact in journalism, publishing, communications, print, and digital media across the area, and how they’ve used media to tell stories, inform the public, and create community connections while shaping public discourse.
“At Tallahassee State College, we believe education is about preserving history, celebrating achievement, and inspiring future generations. The Cherry Hall Alexander African American History Calendar reflects those values by honoring local individuals whose leadership and service have strengthened our communities. We hope this year’s theme encourages even more people to share the stories of those who have made a lasting impact,” said Calandra Stringer, Provost and VP for Academic Affairs at TSC.
To be nominated, an individual must be from Leon, Wakulla, Jefferson, or Gadsden counties and provide proof of meaningful contributions to the community through leadership, education, mentorship, advocacy, civic engagement, or volunteerism while also highlighting the evolving role of media and instant communication in today’s digital age.
Nominations are open through Aug. 31 and can be submitted here.
If you or someone you know fits the bill, be sure to apply.
— County closed for 250 —
Closed in the name of patriotic partying.
Happy Fourth of July, everyone, and we hope you have a great 250. But Leon County wants in on the fun too. So, there will be certain closures and service changes in observance of the Independence Day holiday through Monday.
Starting Thursday and continuing through Monday, Leon County offices, libraries, community centers, and Animal Control will be closed. On the Fourth itself — psst, that’s today — the Leon County Solid Waste Facility, Household Hazardous Waste Center, and Rural Waste Centers will all be closing their doors.
But throughout the holiday, the Leon County Parks and Recreation facilities (parks, greenways, campgrounds, and boat landings) will remain open for citizens to enjoy fireworks, hit the grill, and spend time together.
“As we celebrate Independence Day and commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, I am proud to extend the holiday weekend for our dedicated county staff in recognition of their hard work and service to our community. I hope our residents and visitors enjoy a safe and meaningful holiday weekend, and I thank our county employees for their continued dedication to serving our community throughout the year,” said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban.
Some additional services worth noting include the closure of all LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library branch locations on July 1. All libraries resume normal operating hours on Tuesday.
The Solid Waste Management Facility on Apalachee Parkway closed on Friday and will resume normal operating hours on Monday. But don’t worry, the residential waste collection routes will not be delayed.
The Waste Pro’s holiday schedule can be found online, or you can call the Leon County Solid Waste Management Division at 850-606-1800.
— Parks plays well —
Backed by business.
Election season is heating up, and this week, Tallahassee business owner and attorney Daryl Parks’ mayoral campaign secured a victory in a straw poll conducted by Network of Entrepreneurs and Business Advocates (NEBA), a collective voice of small-business advocates dedicated to making Tallahassee a better place to live and work.
The win came during a candidate forum hosted by NEBA as Parks leveraged his background as a self-made entrepreneur and leader in the Tallahassee finance scene on top of his leadership roles such as being the chairman of the Bond Community Health Center Board of Directors, being the former head of the Florida A&M University Board of Trustees, and having been a long time and key supporter of the Sickle Cell Foundation.
“Winning today’s NEBA straw poll is a powerful vote of confidence from the job creators who drive Tallahassee forward. Our community is ready for an independent leader who will bring executive discipline to City Hall,” stated Parks after the win.
“Through my Unified Economic Development Plan, we will overhaul our permitting code, implement zero-based budgeting, equip first responders with the technology to reduce crime, and bring concrete solutions to address skyrocketing housing costs while maximizing the economic potential of the FSU-TMH healthcare partnership.”
Parks ended his remarks by reminding voters to submit absentee ballots starting next week or to participate in early voting ahead of the Aug. 18 Primary.
— Minions, Monsters, Washington, Elle —
It’s time for the weekly FlaPol film rundown.
You know them, you love them, you hate them; they are the classic out-of-touch Facebook meme: the Minions. And they are back in their 7th outing as a franchise and third solo film, with “Minions and Monsters.”
The Illumination film is co-written and co-directed by long-term creative of the series, Oscar nominee Pierre Coffin (who also voices the Minions), and stars Oscar nominees Jesse Eisenberg and Trey Parker and Oscar winners Christoph Waltz and Jeff Bridges. The plot appears to be child-friendly “Babylon” or animated “Singing in the Rain” as it follows the Minions as they take on 1920s Hollywood searching for the perfect creature for their monster movies. Maybe Hollywood really just loves itself, as the film is the highest rated in the entire series, with 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.5 on IMDb, and 3.3 on Letterboxd.
The other big release this holiday weekend is “Young Washington,” which is about exactly who you think it is. The plot follows a young George as he fights in the French and Indian War. The film is distributed by Angel Studios, the conservative independent film company behind “Sound of Freedom” and, most recently, “Animal Farm,” which was a huge critical, audience, and financial bomb.
Directed by Jon Erwin, the film stars Emmy nominee Andy Serkis, Oscar winner Ben Kingsley, Emmy winner Mary-Louise Parker, and William Franklyn-Miller in the titular role. The film is receiving so-so reviews — 62% on Rotten Tomatoes and 2.2 on Letterboxd. At the end of the day, the film will probably be most remembered for its use of AI in marketing and certain battle scenes for the final cut, which most people aren’t taking kindly to.
When it comes to at-home options, the second season of “X-Men ’97” dropped on Disney+, which goes for the feel and style of the classic 90s series and apparently succeeds, given it has a 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Prime, meanwhile, has a new show with “Elle,” a prequel to the now-mega IP “Legally Blonde,” which follows Elle Woods’ journey through high school. Created by Emmy nominee Laura Kittrel, who produced for “Insecure,” and starring Lexi Minetree, June Diane Raphael, and Tom Everett Scott, it is getting a mixed reception, with 54% on Rotten Tomatoes (75% audience) and a 6.5 on IMDb.
— Capitol Directions —
Florida’s 250 Pavilion — Up arrow — We made the other 49 look like the Soviet exhibit after the Kitchen Debate.
Ron DeSantis — Down arrow — Imagine rejecting a ransom payment because it came in a Samsonite instead of a Rimowa.
Amendment 3 — Down arrow — The Trey Smith of Florida politics: We all know it exists. Nobody’s buying it a movie.
Cord Byrd — Down arrow — Bruh, it’s not the Sagrada Família. Métele!
Jay Collins — Up arrow — Someone had to stack on the door.
Jay Collins, Part 2 — Down arrow — The obvious riposte: “No, I was too busy serving my country.” Can we get a six-figure consulting check now, too?
Paul Renner — Crossways arrow — Like 38 Special at the Strawberry Festival, he put on a hell of a show for the six people listening.
Byron Donalds — Up arrow — The locker room has spoken: stitch on the C.
Alexis Calatayud, Allison Tant — Up arrow — Evidence-based government. What a concept.
Corruption — Up arrow — Sorry, we need to preserve the brand until Kosinski’s reboot drops.
LEO recruitment — Up arrow — Succession planning beats succession panic.
Madeira Beach — Down arrow — Cause. Meet effect.
Miami-Dade Sheriff — Down arrow — The dog that didn’t bark.
Mike Huckabee — Crossways arrow — We’re eagerly awaiting The Kids Guide to Pork.
Randy Maggard — Up arrow — Nobody works the home game better.
New College of Florida — Up arrow — Prussia just cored Silesia. The partitions are loading.
Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge — Down arrow — The oysters respectfully dissent.
Juan Porras — Up arrow — Moved the chains. Got the hardware. Mogged the haters.
Kelli Stargel — Up arrow — Florida Poly Government Affairs: DMAIC complete.
Tampa Bay Rays — Up arrow — Stand-up double.
Florida Justice Association — Down arrow — Another bottle episode. Tune in next Session.
ChatGPT — Down arrow — Prosser & Keeton may need a sixth edition.
Kathy Mears — Up arrow — So … how many Best Supporting nods is that now?
FNGLA — Up arrow — Any friend of Mearkat is a friend of ours.
Sachs Media — Up arrow — From Figma to fully realized, as usual.
Breeze Airways — Up arrow — It’s the Kirkland Signature of airlines, but we’ll take it.
