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Extensive Media Enterprises If it feels like Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway is everywhere this year, you’re not imagining it. Between “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” “Mother Mary,” Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” and David Robert Mitchell’s upcoming “The End of Oak Street,” the Oscar winner is putting together one of the busiest years of her career. But for Florida State University’s College of Motion Picture Arts, it’s Mitchell’s name that stands out. The writer-director behind the cult horror hit “It Follows” is one of a growing list of FSUFilm alumni making waves in Hollywood, a roster that helped the program celebrate another major milestone this week. The Hollywood Reporter, one of the industry’s most notable trades, once again ranked FSU’s College of Motion Picture Arts as the nation’s No. 4 public film school and No. 13 overall, extending a seven-year run among the country’s elite programs. What sets FSU’s program apart, according to THR, is its dedication to hands-on learning and the impressive list of alums who have graced the halls of Doak Campbell Stadium, where the school is housed. “The Hollywood Reporter’s recognition reflects the extraordinary creativity of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff and Florida State University’s continued commitment to providing an exceptional film education,” said Reb Braddock, dean of the College of Motion Picture Arts. 
Hollywood is paying attention. “We’re continuing to build on the innovation that has helped FSUFilm, as The Hollywood Reporter noted, ‘punch above its weight’ while preparing students for successful careers in the industry.” FSUFilm’s highlight reel includes more than alumni success. The Hollywood Reporter also cited the program’s affordable tuition and willingness to innovate. Among the innovations is the college’s MFA Feature Film Program, which sees graduate students pitch, direct and complete a fully financed feature film. BFA graduates are, once again, encouraged to be happy for their MFA classmates. FSUFilm is also preparing to debut a new project for graduate students entitled the “M3 project,” which explores serialized storytelling while building filmmaking skills in virtual production. "We're happy to be recognized by the Hollywood Reporter, but we know we have the best program in the country, because our teaching is hands-on, and our alumni network is the absolute best. Everyone looks out for each other,” said FSUFilm co-Director of Alumni Brenda Mills. The curriculum is paying dividends beyond the classroom. The Hollywood Reporter also spotlighted “NoSeeUms,” the first feature produced through FSUFilm’s MFA Feature Film Program. The film has secured international representation through Odin’s Eye, domestic distribution through Quiver and is now streaming on Apple TV and Amazon. FSUFilm is also investing in its future. Renovations are underway on the new 43,242-square-foot Torchlight Studios Center for Cinematic Innovation, which will house theaters, soundstages, virtual production space, post-production facilities and other resources supporting the college’s expanding programs. Every film school is ultimately judged by what appears in the credits. FSUFilm’s read like a who’s who of modern filmmaking: Academy Award winner Barry Jenkins and producer Adele Romanski, whose collaborations include Best Picture winner “Moonlight,” “The Underground Railroad,” “Mufasa” and “Sorry, Baby”; “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” Director Wes Ball, who is next in line to bring “The Legend of Zelda” to the big screen; editor and producer Max Allman, whose credits include “Jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy” and Best Picture nominee “Marty Supreme”; animation writer Ron J. Friedman (“Brother Bear,” “Chicken Little”); and actor, writer and Alzheimer’s advocate Lauren Miller. The next name to join that list may be Alex Ullom. The FSUFilm graduate’s feature debut, “It Ends,” premieres in theaters Aug. 21 after debuting at SXSW and being acquired by Neon, the studio behind Best Picture winners “Parasite” and “Anora.” As it happens, someone at Florida Politics even worked on that production back in 2023. ___ 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: |
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Take 5 |
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Deadly record — Gov. Ron DeSantis predicted that his administration will set a new state record for capital punishment Tuesday night, noting that he “presided over two executions in the same day,” a historic feat in Florida. DeSantis is close to the record. Thirty-nine people have been put to death with his authorization. Gov. Albert Gilchrist is said to be responsible for 43 between 1909 and 1912. Speaking to the Florida Sheriffs’ Association, DeSantis said he didn’t take “joy” in executions, but said the pace was sped up because of a pandemic pause. Keeping the rights of victims’ families in mind, he said the state had to “get cracking here” and expedite the pace of executions to serve the interests of justice. Deflected — James Fishback will remain in the race for Governor, pending a potential future decision on appeal. judge David Frank of the 2nd Judicial Circuit ruled Monday that Fishback can stay in the contest, giving the embattled candidate a win in his fight to keep his campaign alive. In a 25-page order published just after 5 p.m., Frank dismissed outright a complaint filed by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who is also running in the Republican Primary for Governor. Frank found Fishback’s sworn testimony that he never intended to abandon his Florida residency legally sufficient, particularly since Collins’ side never called a witness to contradict that intent directly. The ruling, which turns on subjective intent rather than documentary contradictions, caps a one-month legal battle Collins brought against Fishback and the Department of State, which oversees elections. Retreat! — Collins is walking back his criticisms of a $10 million donation to the campaign of Byron Donalds from Citadel’s Ken Griffin, a consistent backer of Gov. DeSantis over the years. Spokesperson Jennifer Vickery said the campaign is disavowing a Collins tweet that was sharply critical of Griffin. She described it as the product of a “subcontractor who is trying to help,” but did so without “knowledge or approval” from the campaign. Senior adviser John Cardillo said Collins “did not review and post himself. The contractor posted on his behalf without approval from Jay or the campaign team.” … “The situation has been rectified,” he added. Case closed — Rebekah Jones’ three-year legal fight with the Department of Health (DOH) has reached its conclusion, and the former COVID dashboard manager is not the party walking away vindicated. A three-judge panel of the 1st District Court of Appeal has affirmed summary judgments ending a lawsuit Jones filed against the agency, finding she never made a disclosure protected under the state’s Whistleblower Act and never spoke as a private citizen while publishing work on the dashboard that made her a national name in 2020. She sought reinstatement, back pay and damages. The panel found she could not clear the first hurdle on either of her claims. Do over — Two weeks after he lost in court, Rep. Fabián Basabe is asking the judge who presided over his sexual harassment trial to throw out the six-figure verdict, order a new trial or slash the damages. He contends that a cascade of procedural and evidentiary errors during the trial, in which he forwent legal representation — against advice from the court and conventional wisdom — denied him a fair trial. The request comes through a 25-page motion filed through Florida’s e-filing portal by Deerfield Beach-based lawyer Peter Ticktin, whom Basabe retained after representing himself throughout the trial — a decision the Miami Beach Republican publicly called a “mistake” hours after the verdict. |
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Scotland and Albert |
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Last week, while across the pond, DeSantis presided over the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding in Scotland between UF and the University of St. Andrews to recognize the special relationship between Florida and the United Kingdom in science, research and higher education. Members of the delegation had previously participated in site visits and discussions focused on maritime logistics, supply chain infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and aerospace. “This new partnership between the University of Florida and the University of St. Andrews opens new doors for technology and life science advancements,” DeSantis said. “By increasing our collaboration, Florida continues to position itself as the world destination for innovative research and technological solution development.” 
Further evidence that the Gator Nation is everywhere. The MOU creates a cooperative framework for UF and the University of St. Andrews to pursue joint research, develop faculty and student exchange opportunities, and collaborate in areas of mutual interest such as quantum, marine and physical sciences. All of that comes on top of broader innovation and economic opportunities. “This agreement provides our institutions with remarkable opportunities to advance our missions in research and education. As one of the elite universities in the U.K., the University of St. Andrews is an amazing partner for UF,” said UF Vice President of Research David P. Norton. The new MOU continues the 2023 agreement signed by DeSantis and U.K. Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch. Since then, Florida and the U.K. have made strategic investments with one another and continued building momentum through multiple inbound and outbound trade delegations. “As we continue to build strong ties with Scotland, Florida’s world-class education system is one of our greatest assets. This partnership will not only help students at UF and the University of St. Andrews, but the MOU will also ensure Florida remains on the cutting edge of scientific and technical research for years to come,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. |
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Fauci fray |
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Attorney General James Uthmeier is vowing to open an investigation into Anthony Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, following his congressional testimony Wednesday on his handling of the COVID pandemic six years ago. Fauci appeared before the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to field questions from the Republican-led panel about his influence over the social distancing and mask policies implemented during the 2020 outbreak. But under intense questioning from Senators — especially U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, the Committee Chair — Fauci chose not to answer directly. Fauci declined to answer more than 50 times, injecting new drama into partisan divides that have festered for years over the origins and handling of the pandemic. He repeatedly invoked the Fifth Amendment, which protects Americans from self-incrimination. 
James Uthmeier wants a crack at Anthony Fauci. Uthmeier posted on his official X account shortly after Fauci’s testimony, saying he wants to open an investigation into Florida’s COVID policies during the pandemic. “Fauci’s lack of candor to Congress is unbelievable,” Uthmeier said on X. “My office is launching an investigation into Dr. Fauci. It’s past time we get the truth of what happened during COVID.” The tension between Florida and Fauci is long-standing. DeSantis, who appointed Uthmeier last year, publicly pondered whether Uthmeier could prosecute Fauci on state charges, given that he was preemptively pardoned on federal charges by former President Joe Biden. “We have got a new Attorney General coming in. I think he’s of the mindset to look at this to see what the jurisdictional hooks are, to see what if any (state) statutes may have been violated,” DeSantis said at the Yale Federalist Society in February of last year. He has also referred to Fauci as a “little elf” whom he wanted to “chuck across the Potomac.” |
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Canadian in cuffs |
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A Canadian man is facing charges for illegally casting votes in Florida elections. Attorney General Uthmeier announced Friday that Giorgio Dominique Mucelli was arrested on charges of voting by a non-citizen elector and false affirmation. Following a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for Mucelli, who allegedly voted in seven Florida General Elections over two decades in Brevard County, where he had established permanent residence. 
Ladies and gentlemen … we got 'em. “Florida will not allow non-citizens to steal the vote of Americans at the ballot box,” Uthmeier said in a news release. “This individual knowingly registered and voted while ineligible, lied about it when confronted, and undermined the integrity of our elections. Thanks to the outstanding investigative work of FDLE’s Election Crime Unit and our Statewide Prosecutors, he is being held accountable.” Investigators say the 66-year-old Mucelli is a Canadian citizen who swore under oath that he was a U.S. citizen when he registered to vote in Melbourne. He’s accused of illegally voting in 2004, 2006, 2008, 2012, 2020, 2022 and 2024. U.S. Department of Homeland Security records confirmed he was a permanent resident of Melbourne and renewed that status in April 2023. But he does not hold U.S. citizenship. |
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Drip, splash |
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The Agro Water Dream Team has been assembled. This week, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the new leadership team for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Water Policy. Jessica Ferris will serve as Director of FDACS’ Office of Agricultural Water Policy, and Megan Seward has been tapped as Assistant Director. Ferris previously served as the office’s interim Director and is now stepping up permanently. 
Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward are stepping into leadership roles at the Office of Agricultural Water Policy. “Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward are proven public servants with extensive experience in agriculture, natural resources, environmental policy and government operations, and I know they will build on the historic successes of our Office of Agricultural Water Policy,” Simpson said. “Florida’s farmers and ranchers are the original conservationists, and protecting our water resources while maintaining a strong domestic food supply requires practical, science-based, forward-thinking leadership from our Office of Agricultural Water Policy — and that’s exactly what Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward bring to the team.” During her tenure with the Office of Agricultural Water Policy, Ferris provided guidance for statewide agricultural and water quality initiatives and oversaw the development and implementation of the Agricultural Regional Projects Program. She’s also a Nole, holding a Master of Public Administration and a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, as well as certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP). As Assistant Director, Seward will oversee the Policy, Planning and Coordination Bureau, Budget Section and Contracts Section, while continuing to help lead the division’s implementation of agricultural Best Management Practices, BMP cost-share programs and water quality planning. Before joining FDACS, Seward held senior leadership positions at Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the Northwest Florida Water Management District and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. |
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Instagram of the week |
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♫ Welcome to Miami ♫ |
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On Tuesday, CFO Blaise Ingoglia was in Miami highlighting his accomplishments one year into office, including fighting fraud and supporting law enforcement. In his first year, Ingoglia and the Department of Financial Services’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID) prioritized fraudulent schemes, resulting in more than 1,200 arrests. “Every arrest we make is another promise kept. I will not let fraudsters get away with their schemes in Florida. I applaud the work of my investigators for their success in making more than 1,200 arrests in the last year. I am proud of the work we have done to enhance our support and cooperation with our local law enforcement partners to put more bad guys behind bars. Our work will continue and will keep our foot on the gas and let every fraudster know we are coming for you,” Ingoglia said. 
The CID has averaged more than three arrests a day since Blaise Ingoglia stepped into the CFO's office. CID investigators arrested 1,219 people over the past year, resulting in more than $38 million in restitution. That’s on top of the Bureau of Public Assistance Fraud referring 322 public assistance fraud cases totaling more than $8 million for criminal prosecution. “Our deputies answer the call every day to help others. When our state leaders stand alongside us, we can strengthen our commitment to public safety. I want to thank CFO Ingoglia for helping us keep our community safe,” said Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz. The Bureau of Insurance Fraud arrested 634 people over the past 12 months, while the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives made 344 arrests. The CFO urged anyone with knowledge of fraud to report it through the Fraud Free Florida website. |
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A resilient DeSantis |
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Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis is taking steps to increase the value of a teaching certificate in the state. DeSantis announced in late July the launch of an effort to add a resiliency endorsement for educators earning teaching certificates in Florida. The State Board of Education approved the Resiliency Educator Endorsement, making Florida the first state to offer such a designation. The endorsement is intended to encourage educators to help students develop the characteristics and skills needed to overcome life’s challenges. It’s part of DeSantis’ Resiliency Florida initiative, which equips students with the skills to approach decision-making with responsibility and confidence. 
The First Lady is rolling out a first-of-its-kind resiliency endorsement program. “For several years, the Resiliency Florida initiative has led the nation in reframing the way mental health is taught in schools,” DeSantis said. “Building upon the 11 resiliency characteristics, we are thrilled to announce the Resiliency Educator Endorsement and continue to empower our educators with the tools they need to instill these important characteristics into young Floridians.” The Resiliency Educator Endorsement is one of 14 endorsements teachers can add to their certifications. The program is built around 11 Resiliency Characteristics. Education Commissioner Henry Mack said the effort has practical applications. “The Resiliency Educator Endorsement empowers teachers with practical strategies to cultivate resilience in the classroom, helping students build the confidence, perseverance, and life skills they need to succeed in school and beyond,” Mack said. |
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It’s not getting better |
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A Brooksville man has been arrested on charges of exploiting an elderly person. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) initially investigated 62-year-old Paul Wolaver for possession of child sexual abuse material and promotion of a sexual performance by a child. He was arrested June 10 by FDLE and later released on bond from the Hernando County Jail. 
FDLE caught the suspect before he skipped town. FDLE agents executed an additional search warrant at Wolaver’s home July 22 after receiving tips that he was preparing to leave the country. Documents and electronic communications recovered during the search showed Wolaver had attempted to assume an elderly victim’s identity, according to investigators. Wolaver was arrested again and charged with solicitation to commit exploitation of the elderly. He was booked into the Hernando County Jail, where he is being held without bond. FDLE said the investigation is ongoing. |
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Sooner than expected |
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This one affects Tampa residents — and no, we aren’t talking about the recent Baker Mayfield and Vita Vea contract disputes. This week, the Tampa Electric Company (TECO) notified the Public Service Commission that it expects to complete recovery of its approved storm restoration costs a full month ahead of schedule. As a result, the utility’s storm restoration surcharge will end early, reducing affected customer bills beginning in August. “The early completion of storm cost recovery is welcome news for Tampa Electric customers. Ending the surcharge ahead of schedule will provide customers with meaningful bill relief while ensuring the utility recovers no more than the storm restoration costs approved by the Commission,” said PSC Chair Gabriella Passidomo Smith. 
The TECO surcharge is ending ahead of schedule. PSC approved the surcharge in February 2025 to recover costs associated with restoring service after Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene and Milton, while also helping replenish the utility’s storm reserve. TECO’s updated calculations show the approved storm restoration costs should be fully recovered by the end of July. Beginning Aug. 1, a typical residential customer using 1,000 kWh per month will see a monthly bill decrease of nearly $20. TECO provides service to approximately 860,000 customers across West Central Florida, including Hillsborough County and portions of Polk, Pasco and Pinellas counties. |
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Sheriffs shore up leadership |
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The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) has installed its leadership team for the coming year. The law enforcement group elected its Board of Directors for 2026-27, with Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods serving as the new FSA President. A 36-year law enforcement veteran, Woods said he’s ready to work with the FSA staff and Board of Directors. “Being chosen to lead the Florida Sheriffs Association is something I do not take lightly. It is a role I hold with great honor. At its heart, leadership means putting others first, and I am wholeheartedly dedicated to serving my fellow sheriffs and the citizens of this state with principle and resolve,” Woods said. 
Congrats to incoming FSA President Billy Woods. “I look forward to partnering with our Board of Directors and the outstanding FSA staff to move the Association’s work forward and to make certain the Office of Sheriff remains the foundation upon which public safety in Florida is built for generations ahead.” Woods succeeds immediate Past President Dennis Lemma, the Seminole County Sheriff. Other Board appointments for the FSA include Vice President Rick Staly, Flagler County Sheriff; Secretary Gator DeLoach, Putnam County Sheriff; Treasurer A.J. Smith, Franklin County Sheriff; Chair Eric Flowers, Indian River County Sheriff; and Vice Chair Michelle Cook, Clay County Sheriff. |
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Bet on it |
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A new report detailing Floridians’ worst gambling losses points to a more troubling trend: Calls to the state’s gambling addiction helplines have more than doubled since 2023. A new study by VIP-Grinders, an independent poker and gaming website, surveyed 2,000 people across all 50 states and asked about the worst loss they suffered in a single wagering session. Those figures were averaged by state, with Florida ranking 13th. 
Double or nothing says Florida does better on the next survey. The survey found Florida respondents reported an average worst loss of $4,436. About 8% of Florida gamblers surveyed said they had lost more than $5,000. In addition to those losses, many Florida gamblers acknowledged they haven’t been honest when the dice don’t roll their way. “The survey also points to a troubling culture of financial secrecy, with 38% of gamblers — more than a third — in Florida admitting they have lied about their losses to someone close, including a partner, family member or close friend,” the survey analysts concluded. The report also found Florida is “especially concerning for gambling addiction,” citing a 138% increase in calls to the state’s gambling addiction helplines between 2023 and 2025. |
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Surfs up and chairs W |
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Florida beaches are for everyone. Everyone should be able to access them. This week, it was announced that four of the state’s top beaches will receive new accessible track chairs through the longtime partnership between the Florida State Parks Foundation and Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation. A $100,000 grant from Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation will fund an EcoRover track Chair and storage trailer at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park (Naples), Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (Fort Lauderdale), St. Andrews State Park (Panama City Beach) and T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (Port St. Joe). 
A fitting way to close out Disability Pride Month. The announcement comes at the conclusion of Disability Pride Month, which commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. “The Foundation is committed to creating and expanding accessibility in our state parks every chance we get, and we couldn’t do it without incredible partners like Surfing’s Evolution,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation. “Not only is Surfing’s Evolution an amazing advocate for Florida’s beaches, but it is also an invaluable supporter of accessibility and ensuring that everyone may enjoy these iconic natural wonders.” The Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation was founded by Ron DiMenna, the originator of Ron Jon Surf Shop, and his wife, Lynne, to promote and preserve Florida’s beach and surfing lifestyle for future generations. Since 2021, the foundation has contributed $445,000 to Florida’s state parks. “These track chairs mean that more people will be able to explore Florida’s sandy beaches, feel the ocean breeze, hear the sounds of crashing waves and gaze into our beautiful sunsets. We are proud to continue our support for Florida’s amazing state parks with track chairs that will enhance accessibility at parks in every corner of the state,” said Jacquie Youngs, Foundation Administrator for Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation. |
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Not so Littles |
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The big 150 reps garnet and gold. This week, Florida State University (FSU) announced that Alma Littles, Dean of the FSU College of Medicine, will be installed Aug. 1 as the 150th President of the Florida Medical Association (FMA) during the organization’s annual conference in Orlando. Littles is the first medical school dean to serve as FMA President in the association’s history. Founded in 1874, the FMA represents more than 20,000 physicians on legislative, economic, educational and ethical issues. As President, Littles will Chair the FMA Board of Governors, help set policy for the organization and serve as its chief ambassador. 
Alma Littles is the first medical school dean to serve as FMA President. “While assuming this role is one of the greatest honors of my professional career, I am humbled by the opportunity and mindful of the responsibility. I see this role as an opportunity to serve — not only physicians — but also the patients and communities who depend on us,” said Littles. FMA Presidents serve one-year terms — hence the “150th” designation — and each appoints two members to the FMA Board of Governors. Littles selected Jeremy Slaga, FSU’s Vice President and Chief Clinical Operations Officer overseeing FSU Health, and Andrea Friall, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, who also practices obstetrics and gynecology. “Anyone who has worked with Dr. Littles knows that the superlatives are well-deserved. She’s a remarkable person and a consistently remarkable physician leader. The FMA has always valued having close relationships with Florida’s medical schools. So, the fact that Dr. Littles is the first medical school dean to serve as FMA President in our organization’s 151-year history is especially meaningful,” said FMA Chief Executive Officer Chris Clark. Littles previously served as President of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians (FAFP), was named Florida Family Physician of the Year in 1993 and became a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians in 1998. She also served as Chair of the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Board of Directors in 2016-17. |
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Wine and cheese with FAMU |
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Dionysus might become a Rattler for a day. Save the date: Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) 2026 Grape Harvest Festival returns Aug. 22 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, 6361 Mahan Drive. Hosted by the center and the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS), the event blends family fun, food and agricultural discovery while showcasing FAMU’s nationally recognized work in viticulture and muscadine grape research. 
Get a glass full of goodness. “The Grape Harvest Festival gives families a joyful, hands-on way to experience the science growing in their own backyard. Whether guests are tasting a muscadine grape, touring the vineyard or stepping into a barrel for the grape stomp, we want them to leave with wonderful memories and a greater appreciation for Florida agriculture and FAMU’s research,” said FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research Director Violeta Tsolova. Attendees can take guided trailer rides through the vineyard, sample fresh grape varieties, take part in the U-Pick Grape Gift Bag Experience or cheer on teams during the perennial crowd-favorite grape-stomping competition — think Lucille Ball in Italy. There’s also a grape-throwing contest, a Hula-Hoop competition, winemaking workshops and a health fair. “This festival is one of the most spirited ways we welcome the community into the work of the College,” added CAFS Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs G. Dale Wesson. “It brings research, education and outreach to life while giving people of all ages a chance to connect with our faculty, students and programs. We invite everyone to come ready to learn, laugh and enjoy the harvest.” General admission is $10. Children 12 and younger, along with FAMU students with valid identification, are admitted free. Students from other schools (FSU, TSC, etc.) with valid identification pay $5, while guests 65 and older pay $8. A wine-and-cheese tasting, which requires separate registration, costs $15 and will be offered from noon to 1:30 p.m. |
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Yes to CPM |
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The Florida Certified Public Manager (CPM) program is honoring 456 new graduates this Summer, bringing the total number of Florida CPM graduates to about 9,425 — more than any other state. The CPM program is a nationally recognized leadership development program offered in 38 states. Its goal is to develop more effective public managers and improve services for Florida taxpayers. 
The CPM program is shipping out 456 new graduates. Four CPM graduation ceremonies are taking place this Summer, each marking the conclusion of a three-day leadership conference. The North Florida (144 graduates) and East Central Florida ceremonies were held July 16 and July 30, respectively. Graduates from the West Central Florida area (128 graduates) and Southeast Florida area (72 graduates) will be recognized Aug. 6 and Aug. 20. Florida’s graduate totals make it one of the nation’s largest and most successful CPM programs. The Florida Center for Public Management at the Askew School of Public Administration and Policy at Florida State University administers the Florida CPM program. To graduate, the 456 participants completed a rigorous two-year program that included 31 days of classroom instruction, along with required projects and exams. More than 100 government agencies representing cities, counties, the state and constitutional offices have participated in the Florida CPM program. To learn more about the program, visit the Florida Center for Public Management website. |
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Growing up |
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The growing season gets underway today with the Fall Seed Library Kickoff in Leon County. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to noon at the Leon County Main Library, 200 W. Park Ave. Leon County Government Extension, along with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, is hosting the event to encourage residents to grow their own produce. 
The seed library is open for business. The program is intended to promote healthy eating habits while supporting sustainable gardening practices in the Leon County community. Residents with a library card can check out up to five seed packets per month. Those without a card can still receive up to three packets per month, while supplies last. The packets are free and do not need to be returned. Seeds available during the event include cilantro, beet, cosmic purple carrot, early purple broccoli, early white Vienna kohlrabi, fiesta blend radish, giant champion collards, gourmet mixture lettuce, Komatsuna mustard greens, peppermint Swiss chard and slow-bolt cilantro. The Seed Library Program has been offered in Leon County since 2015 and has provided at least 160 seed varieties to residents, with about 187,000 seed checkouts to date. |
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25 years in the Southside |
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This past Saturday, Leon County celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library, marking a quarter century at its South Adams Street location and more than 50 years of branch library service to the Southside. The free community event, themed “Our Story, Our Library,” featured a commemorative ceremony, family activities, community organizations, complimentary refreshments, music, a historical exhibit and a special story time. The celebration honored the library’s history, the people who helped build its legacy and the profound impact it has had on generations of Tallahasseans. 
The library is celebrating its silver anniversary. “For 25 years, the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library has opened doors of opportunity and discovery for residents of all ages. As we celebrate ‘Our Story, Our Library,’ we look forward to empowering the next generation of dreamers, thinkers, and innovators,” said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban. The library is named in honor of Benjamin L. Perry Jr., a respected community leader who served as the sixth President of Florida A&M University from 1968 to 1977. During his tenure, he helped prevent a merger with Florida State University in the late 1960s. “For decades, the Southside has been shaped by a powerful legacy of community resilience and visionary leadership, personified by the extraordinary life of Dr. Benjamin Perry, Jr.,” said Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor. “This celebration honors that deep history, ensuring that Perry’s lifelong dedication to empowering others continues to light the path forward for generations to come.” The branch originally opened as Page One in 1975 before becoming the Bond Community Branch Library. It moved to its current South Adams Street location as the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library on July 21, 2001. For 25 years, the library has provided internet access, literacy programming and a welcoming space for learning. “Papa firmly believed in education, but even more than that, he believed in lifelong learning and growth. He believed in leaving people better than you found them. That lifting someone else up, will never hold you down,” said Joi Randle, granddaughter of Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. To learn more about the library’s programs and services or to obtain a library card, visit LeonCountyLibrary.org. |
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Guns and drugs are no fun |
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Earlier this week, the Tallahassee Police Department made four arrests. It recovered multiple firearms in less than a week as part of proactive enforcement efforts in the 1500 block of West Tharpe Street. This area has recently experienced shootings and remains an ongoing public safety concern. In one incident, members of TPD’s Violent Crime Response Team observed four individuals acting suspiciously as they entered a vehicle carrying backpacks. After detectives observed a traffic violation, they conducted a traffic stop. During the investigation, one passenger was found carrying an AR-style pistol, and a subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional firearms, including multiple handguns and a short-barreled rifle. One of the handguns was equipped with a conversion device, also known as a “switch,” which allows a firearm to be converted into a fully automatic machine gun. Another handgun had been reported stolen. 
Quite the haul. In a separate enforcement operation in the same area, detectives made two additional arrests on drug charges and recovered another firearm. Between the two investigations, four arrests were made, and five firearms were seized. “This case is a clear example of the focused, proactive work our officers and detectives are doing to reduce gun violence in Tallahassee,” said TPD Chief Lawrence Revell. “Every illegal firearm we remove from the streets represents a potential act of violence prevented and a step toward making our neighborhoods safer. We will continue to focus our efforts in areas impacted by violence and hold accountable those who unlawfully possess firearms.” Jabbarious Dudley, 18, was arrested for possession of a short-barreled rifle; Destin Parks, 17, for possession of a machine gun, possession of a firearm by a minor, and grand theft of a firearm; Zion Williams, 19, for possession of marijuana with intent to sell; and Travon Curry, 17, for sale of marijuana and possession of a concealed firearm. Anyone with information that could help make the Tallahassee community safer is encouraged to contact TPD at 850-891-4200 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS. |
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A new approach |
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The TPD recently launched its new “Approach with Care Autism Awareness Initiative,” a community partnership focused on increasing autism awareness and helping create safer interactions between TPD officers and individuals with autism spectrum disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 31 children in the United States has been diagnosed with ASD. As awareness of autism continues to grow, TPD is prioritizing training and resources to help officers better serve every member of the Tallahassee community. “Every interaction between an officer and a member of the public is an opportunity to build trust,” said TPD Chief Revell. 
TPD has launched a new ASD awareness campaign. “Initiatives like Approach with Care help us better understand the needs of the people we serve so we can respond with greater awareness while continuing to keep our community safe. We are grateful to our community partners for helping make this initiative possible and for their continued commitment to the families of Tallahassee and Leon County.” Community partners in the initiative include the Florida State University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (FSU CARD), Leon County Schools, Behavioral Management Consultants (BMC), Cayer Behavioral Group, Children’s Home Society Early Steps and MidTown Print. “FSU CARD is honored to partner with TPD on this important initiative. Giving law enforcement officers a visual cue to alert them that the vehicle they are approaching may have a passenger with autism allows the officer to shift their mindset before initiating any interaction. This decal, in combination with autism education for law enforcement officers, sets the officers and community members up for success during potentially stressful situations,” said Catherine Zenko, Director of FSU CARD. |
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Hanky drop |
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Florida State University's Master of Applied American Politics and Policy (MAAPP) program celebrated the largest graduating class in its history this week during a commencement ceremony in the Florida Senate Chambers. 
Congrats to FSU MAAPP's largest graduating class to date. Program Director Brad Kile congratulated graduates, while Sachs Media President and Adjunct Professor Drew Piers delivered the commencement address. The milestone class pushes the program's alumni network past 650 graduates, many of whom now serve in leadership roles across Florida and beyond. The ceremony concluded with one of MAAPP's signature traditions as graduates gathered in the fourth-floor rotunda to drop handkerchiefs in a nod to the Legislature's sine die tradition and as a symbolic reminder that "there are no more days." It was a fitting send-off for the next generation of policy and public affairs professionals as they head into the field. |
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Capitol Directions |
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