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Extensive Media Enterprises As originally sung by Fergie and then sampled by Jack Harlow: “first class, up in the sky.” But this time, we aren’t talking about airplanes. Earlier this week in Auburndale, Gov. Ron DeSantis showcased “SunTrax,” Florida’s groundbreaking, nation-leading facility for the research and development of emerging transportation technologies. Nestled along the I-4 corridor in Polk County, the 775-acre SunTrax campus was built to test connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technologies but is now looking to the sky. It has expanded into aviation technology to help safely advance the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology, also known as “flying cars.” With this in Florida’s back pocket, state officials expect to host a series of AAM test flights by the end of the year to let the world know what we are up to. “Great to be at the SunTrax Testing Grounds in Auburndale today to highlight Florida’s leadership in the future of transportation. By the end of this year, Florida will be actively testing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, while SunTrax Air Ground is actively testing and supporting the deployment of autonomous and connected vehicles,” DeSantis said. “I was also proud to announce that FDOT is partnering with Embry-Riddle and Polk State to help Florida students prepare for exciting career opportunities in the next generation of transportation. Florida has the innovation-friendly policies, the universities and research institutions, the infrastructure and forthcoming infrastructure investments, and the talent needed to become the premier location for emerging transportation technology.” Home to the nation’s first dedicated AAM Aerial Test Track, SunTrax will actively test eVTOL aircraft throughout the Central Florida aerospace region by the end of the year using its controlled environment. SunTrax provides companies with the privacy to thoroughly test aircraft and new communication technologies under real-world conditions. Additional tenant hangars stand ready to provide opportunities for research, light manufacturing and final assembly. 
Florida is (almost) cleared for takeoff. “Polk State College is pleased to be a lead partner with FDOT in supporting workforce development and preparing the next generation of professionals for the future of aviation. Florida’s strategic investments in advanced air mobility and autonomous vehicles will help create high-paying jobs while building the skilled workforce needed to support this emerging industry,” Polk State College President Anastasios Kamoutsas said. “SunTrax provides an invaluable resource for hands-on training and research, giving our students rare opportunities to gain experience with cutting-edge technology right here in Polk County. This partnership will help position our students for success while driving innovation and economic growth throughout the region and across Florida.” AAM could change transportation in Florida, the nation, and the world, whether by moving passengers in air taxis or by handling vital, time-sensitive needs such as cargo, medical transport, and emergency response. Florida was also recently selected to lead the development of safety and operational policies for eVTOL and AAM technology through the Federal Aviation Administration's Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) and AAM Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), conducted by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “SunTrax and Florida’s strategic plan to take highways to the sky are prime examples of why Florida remains a global leader in transportation. As our state continues to grow and transportation needs increase, AAM will be a great addition to Florida’s world-class transportation portfolio that serves and benefits all travelers,” stated FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue. Florida’s partnerships with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Polk State College aim to develop training and credentialing opportunities for the next generation of pilots, maintenance technicians, engineers and other transportation professionals. In turn, that should help ensure Florida continues to grow and sustain the industry in its backyard. Blade Runner may be here sooner than we thought — the cool cyber-tech parts, not the bad stuff. Well, that too, maybe. ___ 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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Take two — As ordered by Leon County Judge David Frank, Attorney General James Uthmeier has rewritten the ballot language for Amendment 3, the proposal that would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 next year and $250,000 by 2028. It needs approval from at least 60% of voters to pass. The Legislature’s title, “Save Our Homes From Excessive Property Taxes,” is gone. In its place: “Increased Homestead Exemption; Lower Cap on Increases in Non-Homesteaded Property Assessments.” “This amendment increases the homestead exemption, for all non-school taxes, to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, and adjusts for inflation thereafter. It requires the Legislature to prescribe a uniform procedure for counties and municipalities, for their respective levies, to increase the homestead exemption up to full assessed value, and allows special districts, subject to referendum approval, to do the same,” the revised language reads. Achilles' heel — As state and federal governments crack down on immigration, Florida businesses could continue to feel the squeeze. That’s according to a new report from immigration reform group America’s Voice, which found the Sunshine State has one of the largest shares of foreign-born workers in its labor force, even as some of the most concerted enforcement efforts in the country play out here. The organization’s study, titled “End the ICE Tax” and shared exclusively with Florida Politics, lists Florida among five states where immigrants make up the highest share of the labor force. Florida, California, Nevada, New Jersey and New York are home to roughly half the nation’s foreign-born population. Researchers say that could explain why Florida has suffered one of the worst employment dips in the country as state and federal leaders step up immigration enforcement. Dirty tricks — A homophobic text falsely claiming state Sen. Shevrin Jones has HIV and incorrectly claiming LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Florida paid for the message is being sent to CD 24 voters. Equality Florida, which endorsed Jones last month, says it didn’t pay for the ad, calling it a violation of federal election law. The group says it’s looking into who is responsible. The message tells recipients that Jones “was denied to donate blood” to a COVID survivor after “testing positive for HIV/AIDS because of his homosexuality.” It urges recipients “to stand with our Gay community” before closing with a “Paid for by Equality Florida” disclaimer. Equality Florida spokesperson Brandon Wolf called the ad “a disgusting attack against a public servant who has poured his heart and soul into his community.” “We can all see it for what it is: a desperate attempt by a shady, dark money group supporting one of Shev’s opponents that traffics in ugly tropes, misrepresents a trusted statewide organization, and weaponizes a Black man’s identity,” he said. He urged voters to answer at the ballot box and “tell the dark money fraudsters that power still belongs to the people.” Out of office — Erik Swenk, who is running for Seminole County judge, falsified his attendance sheets for his time card and misused his official state email to send campaign messages and solicit campaign funds, according to a new investigative report released by the Florida Inspector General’s Office. Swenk, an Office of Appeal Hearings Officer Supervisor at the state’s Inspector General’s Office, is running in Judges Group 6 against Alena Chaban and incumbent Judge Wayne Culver in the Aug. 18 Primary. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which coordinated with the investigation, notably found “no criminal predicate exists at this time to warrant further investigation,” the Aug. 6 report said. And Swenk questioned the timing of the investigative report, which was released just as early voters cast their ballots. Final countdown — Republicans have widened their advantage in ballots cast ahead of Florida’s Tuesday Primary. The latest Division of Elections figures show 665,003 Republicans have voted by mail or at an early voting site, compared with 611,882 Democrats. The GOP’s 53,121-vote advantage is up from 9,332 on Tuesday. Democrats still lead in vote-by-mail returns, 441,505 to 381,584. But Republicans have more than erased that advantage in person, casting 283,419 early ballots compared with 170,377 Democrats. Altogether, 1,471,321 Floridians have voted. That marks a sharp reversal from 2022, when Democrats finished pre-Election Day voting ahead by 134,788, though comparisons carry a caveat: Standing vote-by-mail requests now expire after each General Election. |
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Uthmeier v. NYT |
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Uthmeier has sent a 28-page letter to The New York Times demanding to inspect the company's records related to its coverage of the conflict between Israel and Palestinian forces. Uthmeier announced on his X account that he’s taking the action as a trustee and legal counsel for the State Board of Administration (SBA), which oversees Florida’s pension plan. He said the state pension has about 160,000 shares of New York Times stock and added that the newspaper may not be meeting publication standards. Uthmeier singled out an opinion piece by New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof in May that claimed Israeli prison guards engaged in widespread sexual violence against Palestinian detainees. Israeli officials claimed the article contained false information and threatened to sue the news outlet for defamation. The New York Times has defended the article. 
The Attorney General has some opinions about The Gray Lady’s Israel-Palestine coverage. Uthmeier's letter also raises concerns about the newspaper's coverage between October 2023 and June 2024, when, Uthmeier wrote, “the Times admitted 72 errors of its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war that had to be corrected. And many, if not most, of those errors favored Hamas.” Hamas, a militant pro-Palestinian organization that has ruled over Gaza for years, is believed to receive funding from Iran and other countries in the Middle East. Uthmeier said that since the SBA is a significant shareholder in The New York Times Co., he’s asking to see the company's records to protect the value of its investment. “The Times tells investors that its brand and reputation are its most important assets,” Uthmeier said. “If people see its journalism as unreliable or biased, the company can be hurt.” A New York Times spokesperson called Uthmeier's actions grandstanding. |
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Trafficking takedown |
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Attorney General Uthmeier detailed law enforcement investigations in the Hillsborough County area that ended with the arrest of 116 people suspected of engaging in human trafficking. While there are plenty of charges against those arrested, Uthmeier said the investigation, called “Operation Relentless Summer,” is ongoing and there may be additional suspects. Five people believed to be victims of sex trafficking were recovered and have been placed in support services. “These human traffickers and child predators prey on the most vulnerable in our communities, exploiting women and children for their own gain,” Uthmeier said in a press release. 
James Uthmeier added scores to his arrest tally this week. “Thanks to the outstanding work of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Statewide Prosecution, 116 of these criminals are behind bars, five victims have been rescued, and one trafficker is facing three life sentences.” The victims recovered in the investigation include three adults and two juveniles. Law enforcement officials executed search warrants at residences connected to suspected “dark web” activity. Undercover online chats by detectives were also used to identify suspected traffickers. The investigation started in April when detectives said one suspect made several suspicious telephone calls connected to sex with juveniles around a home in Tampa. Investigators say they found the man allegedly recruited women at strip clubs in Florida. He's also suspected of victimizing women and girls in other states, including Texas and Louisiana. |
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Forever farms |
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On Wednesday, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced that more than 2,600 acres of working Florida agricultural land across four farms and ranches are joining the party. The land is being permanently protected through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Once properties are selected, the rural lands protection easements prevent future development while allowing agricultural operations to continue as normal, contributing to Florida’s economy and the production of food, timber and other resources vital to the state’s prosperity. “The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program is the most cost-effective conservation tool Florida has to permanently protect our food supply, natural resources, and wildlife habitat from development. Thanks to historic investments in the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program from the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis, we’re ensuring Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and producers can continue feeding and supporting Florida families for generations to come,” said Commissioner Simpson. 
Save some acreage for term two, Commissioner! All four new properties were enrolled in FDACS Best Management Practices and are located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Meet the new contestants. Ludwig Property, located on Bushy Creek just north of where it flows into Horse Creek, is an approximately 639-acre cow-calf operation in Hardee County and was permanently preserved from development through an easement totaling $3.85 million. Dale Wright Farm, a 589-acre cattle ranch and peanut farm in Marion County, has been preserved through an easement of $2,825,000, with $1,400,000 provided through the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service-Regional Conservation Partnership Program. Lastly, C&G Cattle — Charlie Creek is a 672-acre cattle ranch in Hardee County being preserved for $4,995,000, while C&G Cattle - Fish Branch is a 779-acre cattle ranch in the county being preserved for $4,550,000. |
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Fire funding |
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This week, Chief Financial Officer/State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia made his way south to West Palm Beach to award nearly $1 million to four local fire stations to enhance their emergency response capabilities. The funding was made possible through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant Program, the Firefighter Assistance Grant Program and projects appropriated by the CFO in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget. “Our hometown heroes run towards danger to protect the citizens in their communities each and every day. This funding is a necessity to ensure they have the protective gear and tools to do their jobs safely and protect their communities effectively. As State Fire Marshal, it is an honor to work with these brave men and women whose commitment to public safety makes Florida the best state to live in,” stated CFO Ingoglia. 
Novelty check print shops love when the CFO comes to town. Both the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant and the Firefighter Assistance Grant were created to improve emergency response capabilities and enhance firefighter safety by providing the resources and technology needed to mitigate exposure to hazardous, cancer-causing chemicals. Through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant, the Town of Southwest Ranches received $4,974.80; the City of Green Acres, $6,806.25; the City of West Palm Beach, $19,635; and the Town of Highland Beach, $5,962.50. “I am incredibly grateful for leaders like CFO Ingoglia who step up to assist our first responders’ needs. This money helps us better respond to emergencies throughout the city,” said West Palm Beach Fire Chief Diana J. Matty. The Firefighter Assistance Grant awarded the Town of Southwest Ranches an additional $51,380, and the FY 2025-26 budget set aside $900,000 for the same town’s fire station. “Fighting fires and protecting our community takes resources and manpower. The funding awarded for Southwest Ranches to have a new fire station can help us fight fires quickly and efficiently,” added Southwest Ranches Fire Chief Lee Bennett. |
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Instagram of the Week |
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Amberjack action |
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Greater amberjack enthusiasts will soon get their chance to hook the fish after the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) voted to open the recreational season. The FWC agreed Friday to open the recreational amberjack season on the Gulf Coast from Sept. 1 to Oct. 14. The season applies to state waters along Florida’s West Coast. The executive order approved by the FWC is consistent with a new recreational season announced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for greater amberjack in federal waters. NOAA modified the amberjack recreational season this year to 43 days in Gulf waters, up from 26 days in 2025. 
Got to wait until September to bag one of these massive amberjacks. Greater amberjack are sizable fish that can grow up to 60 inches long and weigh nearly 180 pounds, but they more commonly reach 40 inches and about 40 pounds. They generally live in or near reefs in 60 to 240 feet of water. Florida anglers seeking to catch greater amberjack during the recreational season will need to follow tight regulations through the season’s Oct. 13 close. Anyone using a private recreational vessel to catch amberjack or any other reef fish species must have a State Reef Fish Angler Designation from the state. Annual renewals are required. The bag limit for greater amberjack is one fish per person per day. The minimum size limit during the recreational season is 34 inches. The recreational season opens after the commercial greater amberjack season closes on Aug. 8. |
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Session summons |
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On Wednesday, Republican gubernatorial candidate Paul Renner released a statement criticizing the Florida House for failing to bring the Medical Freedom Bill and the AI Bill of Rights to a vote and calling for an immediate Special Session. “The ultimate slap in the face to voters is the dereliction of duty by their elected representatives. Early in the Session, Governor DeSantis called on the Legislature to act on two critical issues: medical freedom and protections against the abuses of artificial intelligence. The Florida Senate acted on both. The Florida House refused to even bring them to a vote. That failure cannot become an excuse for inaction,” said Renner in an official statement. 
Internal polls show another Special Session has less support than a certain someone's gubernatorial bid. Renner went on to question government interference in citizens’ medical decisions and warn about the dangers of unregulated AI, issues that currently divide both sides of the aisle. “Floridians have waited long enough. They have a right to make their own medical decisions without unnecessary government interference. And they deserve leaders willing to stand up to Big Tech and establish commonsense guardrails to protect children and families from the abuses of unregulated AI. That’s why I’m calling on the Legislature to convene an immediate Special Session on Medical Freedom and the AI Bill of Rights— two priorities that Gov. DeSantis has championed.” Renner closed the statement by calling out outgoing and incoming politicians who have purposefully ignored pressing issues and chosen not to lead or step up. “Outgoing House leadership chose to ignore these issues. Incoming leadership now has a chance to lead. After two frustrating years in Tallahassee, it’s time to stop making excuses and start delivering. Bring these bills to the floor, and let’s deliver for Floridians while spurring enthusiasm in voters to return Republican majorities to Tallahassee this November,” said Renner. To secure the GOP’s top spot in November, Renner will have to beat three notable opponents: front-runner Byron Donalds, Jay Collins and the more controversial James Fishback. |
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Plot foiled |
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This week, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Giovanni Pimienta, 19, of Venice, Florida, on one count each of written threats to kill, threats to bomb or conduct a mass shooting, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device to commit a felony. The investigation began when an FDLE agent received information through the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Joint Terrorism Task Force that a subject later identified as Pimienta was communicating with users online about obtaining weapons to carry out a mass shooting while also glorifying previous mass shootings. Investigators also found an AI-produced video they said supported his intent to carry out a mass shooting, along with a manifesto published on social media. On Aug. 7, FDLE special agents, crime intelligence and forensic analysts, and the Special Operations Team executed a search warrant and discovered a handgun and multiple electronic devices. 
FDLE may have saved Venice from a needless tragedy. Investigators at the scene then discovered that Pimienta had a grievance against a nearby church and had planned to take hostages during a mass shooting using the handgun agents had seized. “The swift and thorough investigative efforts of our FDLE team dismantled Pimienta’s plan to harm our community,” said FDLE Special Agent in Charge Eli Lawson. “I commend our special agents, crime intelligence analysts, forensic analysts and Special Operations Team for working cohesively to investigate and arrest Pimienta to prevent his plan from coming to fruition.” The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, the Venice Police Department, and the FBI assisted with the investigation and may have helped save lives. The Office of the State Attorney of the 12th Judicial Circuit is prosecuting the case, and the investigation remains active. FDLE also strongly encourages the public to report suspicious activity online or in person by calling 855-FLA-SAFE or 911, or by visiting the FDLE website: fdle.state.fl.us. |
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Bright deadline |
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Parents of high school seniors: mark your calendars now. This week, students across the state are heading back to school, and the Florida Lottery is reminding eligible students to submit their Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) by Aug. 31 to be eligible for a Bright Futures Scholarship. “Back to school season marks the beginning of new opportunities for students across our state. The Bright Futures Scholarship Program has helped generations of Florida students turn their dreams into reality by providing critical support throughout their educational journeys,” said Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald D. Dixon. “We advise every student to learn more about the Program and understand the requirements they must meet to receive a Bright Futures Scholarship.” 
The clock is ticking for students seeking tuition help. For nearly 30 years, the Bright Futures Scholarship Program has helped Florida students and families take the next step in their educational journeys. The program is funded primarily by the Florida Lottery and, as of 2026, has provided more than $9.3 billion in educational funding while supporting more than a million students pursuing higher education and career-oriented training at Florida colleges, universities and career and technical education programs. “Education has the power to change lives and build a stronger future for Florida and the nation. It gives students the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to achieve their goals and become engaged, productive citizens. I encourage every eligible student to complete their Florida Financial Aid Application by Aug. 31 and take this important step toward turning their educational dreams into reality,” added Florida Commissioner of Education Henry Mack. For those of you in the back who need another reminder, check out the Lottery's PSA here. |
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Tax revolt |
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On Wednesday, Rep. Ryan Chamberlin announced a new effort to place a ban on property taxes in the state constitution — similar to the ban on an income tax currently enshrined there. For more than three years, Chamberlin has been one of the most consistent voices on the property tax issue and even unveiled a “Freedom 1-2-3” plan to replace property tax revenues with alternative sources, eventually enabling the total elimination of property taxes without hurting the state’s rainy-day funds. “Over the last 5 years, property tax revenues have increased well over 50% statewide, and yet government keeps spending more. People and small businesses desperately need relief. In the Legislature, we failed to give them the relief they need, and I am convinced the only way to truly ensure reform is to place a ban on ad valorem taxation in our state constitution,” said Chamberlin. 
Ryan Chamberlin says a sequel to the property tax amendment is already in production. Rep. Chamberlin is currently the chairman of End Property Tax Now, a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to — you guessed it — what its title implies. The process of forming a political committee and submitting constitutional amendment language to begin collecting petitions is also underway. To secure a spot on the 2028 ballot for voters to decide, Chamberlin’s political committee will have to collect 880,062 petitions statewide and reach a threshold of more than 220,000 to achieve judicial review. Recently, DeSantis expressed his desire to eliminate all residential property taxes in Florida, but his proposed bill failed to pass both the Florida House and Senate. On Nov. 3, Floridians will vote on a constitutional amendment placed on the ballot by the Legislature that would substantially increase the homestead exemption and reduce a home’s taxable value. |
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DOGE handbook |
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There’s a book for that. This week, the James Madison Institute (JMI), along with Florida DOGE, announced the release of “Every Dollar Justified: A Zero-Based Budgeting Handbook for Local Governments,” a new resource designed to help municipalities and counties implement zero-based budgeting and improve transparency, accountability and financial efficiency. The handbook is intended to serve as a blueprint for local governments looking to move beyond traditional incremental budgeting. “Taxpayers deserve a budgeting process that starts by asking what government truly needs — not simply what it spent last year. This handbook equips local leaders with the tools to modernize the budgeting process, improve transparency, and ensure that every public dollar is aligned with the priorities of the communities they serve. Zero-based budgeting is about responsible stewardship, better decision-making, and earning the public's trust,” said Bob McClure, President and CEO of The James Madison Institute. 
The guidelines for smashing this thing are outlined in Appendix A. The new handbook provides local officials with step-by-step implementation guidance, model policies and decision-making tools that have been used successfully across the country. It also addresses the biggest misconceptions surrounding zero-based budgeting while outlining practical approaches that can be adjusted to jurisdictions of every size and scope. “This handbook gives local governments a practical roadmap to evaluate spending based on performance and necessity, helping ensure that limited taxpayer resources are directed toward the services that matter most,” added Eric Soskin, the leader of the Florida DOGE team within the office of Governor DeSantis. Every Dollar Justified: A Zero-Based Budgeting Handbook for Local Governments is available to read here. |
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Sachs on top |
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That’s right, take a bow: This week, Sachs Media was recognized as the Agency of the Year by the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) at its 2026 Golden Image Awards. One of the nation’s oldest PR organizations, FPRA, is dedicated to developing practitioners through ethical, standardized practices that enhance the profession in Florida. The FPRA Golden Image Awards honor the state’s top public relations programs, campaigns and professionals each year. In 2026, Sachs Media takes the cake, and the accolade is a welcome one as the firm celebrates its 30th anniversary this calendar year. 
Is anyone surprised? We kid, we kid — congrats to the Sachs team! What did you get for your 30th anniversary, and was it an award? “Our team gives their all every day, bringing big ideas and incredible energy to help our clients make an impact. This recognition is a testament to their talent, creativity, and commitment to doing great work,” said Sachs Media President Drew Piers. The recognition not only reflects what Sachs Media has strived to build over the past three decades but also showcases the quality of work the firm does for clients across Florida and beyond. The recognition reinforces what clients in Tallahassee and beyond already know: The capital city's homegrown PR shop is world-class. |
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Comms excellence |
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The top communications official at the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) is being honored for excellence in her work. Kristen Knapp, the FHCA Senior Director of Strategy and Communications, received the Walter M. Johnson Jr. Circle of Excellence Award during the organization's Annual Conference and Trade Show in Orlando last week. Knapp has headed up communications for the healthcare organization for 18 years. She’s the lead public relations and public affairs manager and serves as FHCA's spokesperson and media contact. She handled crisis communications during hurricanes and did so during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Florida Health Care Association officials celebrated their Conference and Trade Show in Orlando last week. Image via FHCA. "Kristen has a gift for making sure the world sees what we see every day: people who've dedicated their lives to caring for Florida families and continue to raise the gold standard for quality care," said FHCA CEO Emmett Reed. "Whether she's mobilizing our members through hurricane preparation and response or telling the story of a caregiver who went above and beyond, she brings people together and reminds us why this work matters, and she does it without ever asking for credit. On behalf of all of FHCA, we’re thrilled to highlight Kristen’s invaluable contributions." Knapp also handles workforce initiatives and oversees the FHCA scholarship program, which has distributed about $900,000 to students and long-term healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers. |
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Historic medicine |
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This week, Florida A&M University (FAMU) proudly announced that it has acquired approximately 0.94 acres of contiguous property along South Adams Street, directly across from the university's main campus. The historic Brickler property was for decades home to a medical practice connected to two Black physicians, Dr. Russell L. Anderson and his son-in-law, Dr. Alexander D. "A.D." Brickler. Their work was intertwined with the former FAMU Hospital and instrumental to the health of Tallahassee's Black community. Now, FAMU aims to build on that inspiring, pioneering history by transforming the property into a hub for health sciences education, experiential learning, research and community engagement. “This is a very special opportunity to bring this historic property into the FAMUly while honoring those whose scholarship, medical practice and impact helped shape our University and this community. The era of Dr. Russell Anderson, Dr. Alexander Brickler and Foote-Hilyer reminds us that education and healthcare have always been deeply connected to FAMU’s mission. We accept the responsibility of carrying that history forward and being good stewards of the Brickler and Foote-Hilyer legacy,” said FAMU President Marva B. Johnson. 
FAMU has snapped up the Historic Brickler Property. “We are committed to preserving its significance while creating new opportunities for our students, faculty and community to advance health and knowledge for generations to come.” The acquisition allows FAMU to connect the property’s historic healthcare mission with FAMU’s ever-growing Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation division. One of its first plans is to develop a cardiometabolic center on the property that would focus on conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease and obesity. “This is a remarkable, historical day. This building and really connecting with this building is going to provide an opportunity for our nursing students, our pharmacy students and our allied health students, as well as our public health students, to really work together in a synergistic way to not only learn, research, but also have impact in the community for improving health outcomes in this city,” stated Executive Vice President Donald Palm, who will oversee the enterprise. |
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10 more for IGC |
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On Tuesday, the Institute for Governance and Civics (IGC) at Florida State University (FSU) announced it had welcomed 10 faculty members and research fellows for the 2026-27 academic year, bringing expertise in civics education, law, economics and public policy. Their work will include teaching, research and student engagement across IGC’s focus areas, including constitutional, economic, conscience and educational liberty. “We’re bringing in scholars whose work speaks directly to today’s most pressing questions about liberty, education, and governance. Their expertise will deepen our research and enrich the academic experience for our students,” said IGC Director Ryan Owens. The 10 incoming individuals will support the Institute’s research and degree programming through their expertise in scholarship, teaching, legal practice and public policy. In Economic Liberty, Eric Olson (Economic Liberty Branch Head), Natalie Millar (Economic Liberty Fellow), Morris M. Kleiner (Economic Liberty Visiting Fellow, Spring 2027) and Alexander William Salter (Economic Liberty Visiting Fellow, Spring 2027) will man the ship. 
IGC has a new crop of faculty joining its ranks. In Constitutional Liberty, Adam Feldman (Constitutional Liberty Fellow), Zack Smith (Constitutional Liberty Fellow), Jesse James (Visiting Assistant Professor), and Sam England (Assistant Professor) will showcase their vast knowledge and leadership. Lastly, Educational Liberty has Neal McCluskey (Educational Liberty Visiting Faculty) and Sean Hadley (Teaching Faculty) bringing the goods for all to hear. This group of members and fellows includes the creator of Empirical SCOTUS, a notable data-driven legal blog; a fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution; and scholars and policy experts from the University of Minnesota, Texas Tech University, the Cato Institute and more. Needless to say, it’s a pretty experienced group of 10. Established in 2023, the IGC aims to support a variety of legal initiatives that promote liberty through data-driven research, excellence in teaching and intellectually diverse exchange. For more information about the IGC and the new members and fellows for the 2026-27 academic year, visit the IGC website. |
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Say hello |
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New classes unlocked. Florida State University’s (FSU) College of Fine Arts is launching the School of Design at the start of the 2026-27 academic year to better prepare students for the interdisciplinary nature of the profession and its specific trade secrets. The program, formerly known as the “Department of Interior Architecture & Design,” will now operate as its own school, better reflecting the weight of the design education offered at FSU. It will also maintain and beef up its nationally recognized interior design program, which has more than 50 years of prestige to its name and is ranked #3 in the nation for both undergraduate and graduate education by Niche — a ranking and review site for students, professors and parents alike covering all things schools and universities. “For more than half a century, Florida State University has been training leading designers who shape how we live, work and interact with the world. The launch of the School of Design reflects our dedication to design thinking, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration,” said James Frazier, dean of the College of Fine Arts. 
Associate Professor Jim Dawkins, second from the left, reviews a project with Interior Design students. Florida State University’s College of Fine Arts is launching the School of Design at the start of the 2026-27 academic year. Image via College of Fine Arts. “We are preparing students not only for today’s creative industries, but also for the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping the future of design.” This follows the launch last academic year of a new bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary design and a new graduate certificate in graphic design. Both programs are expanding opportunities for Noles while helping the School of Design meet the moment in an ever-changing profession and focus more on itself. The College of Fine Arts will hold a private celebration on Aug. 28 at the William Johnston Building to toast the launch of the School of Design. To learn more about the program, watch a special video about the school here. “Design is problem solving. It’s thinking about how people need to use spaces and objects and how they receive messages,” said Amy Huber, professor and Chair of the School of Design. “I see the future as really getting our students out there. They’re going to be change makers while society is changing; technology is changing. They’re really the ones that can pull all these thoughts together and really act on problems out in the world and develop solutions alongside others in the field.” |
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Familiar face |
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Florida State University (FSU) Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Jim Clark has appointed Mike Brady interim dean of the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, effective immediately. Brady succeeds Susan Fiorito, the college’s founding dean. Brady’s resume runs deep. He currently serves as assistant provost, the Bob Sasser Professor of Marketing in the Herbert Wertheim College of Business and FSU’s faculty athletics Representative. Fiorito is still right around the corner, having returned to the faculty. “Dr. Brady is a proven administrator, an internationally recognized scholar and a committed member of the Florida State community. His experience in academic leadership, along with his commitment to students and research, positions him well to lead the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship during this transition,” stated Clark. 
Mike Brady is at the helm. For now, at least. Brady is a two-time FSU alumnus, having earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing in 1991 and his Ph.D. in 1997. His research focuses on customer satisfaction, employee interactions and service marketing and has earned more than 38,000 academic citations. Brady has also held leadership roles with the American Marketing Association, including vice president of Publications and Board Chair, and served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Service Research. “It is an honor to serve as interim dean of the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. Dean Fiorito has built a strong college with dedicated faculty, staff and students. I look forward to working with them to continue advancing entrepreneurship at FSU,” said Brady. |
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Cultura Tallahassee |
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This week, Leon County Government is inviting artists of all ages to submit completely original artwork for “Cultura Tallahassee: Together, We Are More,” a new community art exhibition celebrating Hispanic culture, heritage and history. Selected work will be on display at the Leon County Main Library from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as part of National Hispanic Heritage Month. But don’t delay: Submissions must be uploaded here by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 30. “Art has a unique way of bringing people together, sharing stories, and helping us better understand the rich cultures and experiences that make our community special. Through ‘Cultura Tallahassee: Together, We Are More,’ we invite local artists of all ages and experience levels to share their creativity and celebrate Hispanic heritage,” said Leon County Public Library Innovation Officer Elizabeth Loeffelman. 
You've got two weeks — hop to it! Artists with questions or who need assistance should visit the Hispanic Heritage Month page. The exhibition will open Sept. 19, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Leon County Main Library, where the public is encouraged to attend the free event, view beautiful local art and enjoy light refreshments. Observed every year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. During this year’s observance, Leon County Government will also offer cultural programs, recommended reading lists, book displays and movie watchlists to help residents further explore and celebrate Hispanic heritage. |
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Digital domination |
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Can you dig(ital) it? This week, Leon County was named in the top ten of the 24th annual Digital Counties Survey, conducted by the Center for Digital Government in partnership with the National Association of Counties. The survey found that Leon County was the highest-ranked Florida county in its population category (250,000–499,999) and tied for 10th nationally among counties of similar size. This is the 14th consecutive year the county has earned a top ranking in the national survey. “This ranking reflects what drives our work every day: using technology to meet residents' needs and make County services easier to access,” stated Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban. “Fourteen straight years of national recognition show Leon County continues to set the standard for digital innovation in local government.” Examples highlighted in the survey include the county’s existing fiber network, which helped deliver the information technology behind the World Athletics Cross Country Championships a few months back, and the Main Library’s new second floor, which has 15 new multi-use spaces, including a recording and podcast studio and rooms for adult education and English-language learning. 
Leon County earned a spot near the top of the national rankings. One of Leon County’s biggest digital accomplishments this year was the introduction of a new endpoint security solution that protects the county and its eight partner agencies while cutting costs by about 50%. That amounts to $570,000 in savings per year. “We are honored to be recognized among the nation's best for the 14th year in a row,” said Leon County Chief Information Officer Michelle Taylor. “Our shared-services model lets one team deliver technology for the County and eight partner agencies, and those economies of scale mean real savings for taxpayers.” Leon County's Office of Information and Technology also provides shared technology services to the Sheriff, Courts, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector, Supervisor of Elections, State Attorney, Public Defender and Medical Examiner. “I could not be prouder of our Office of Information and Technology team. Every one of these projects comes back to the same goal: streamlining County operations and serving our community better,” added Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. |
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Radar love |
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School is back, and so are speeding tickets. This week, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) is reminding drivers that the School Zone Speed Enforcement Program resumed observation on Wednesday. The automated speed detection systems are active during school hours to encourage drivers to slow down and help protect students, families, faculty and staff traveling to and from school. Beginning Aug. 12, drivers traveling more than 10 miles per hour over the limit during designated enforcement periods can expect a $100 notice of violation. “Keeping our students safe is a responsibility we all share, and that starts with slowing down and paying attention in our school zones. As students return to school, we’re asking every driver to remain alert, follow the posted speed limits and make safe driving a priority,” said Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell. 
Pump the brakes or pay the price. “A few extra minutes on your commute can make a significant difference in protecting a child. However, we will continue to have warning periods when new cameras are installed.” TPD reminds drivers to pay attention to posted speed limits in school zones and throughout the city. Some tips to keep you from swearing up a storm when the back-to-school commute makes you late: Leave 10 to 15 minutes earlier, remain alert for crosswalks and pedestrians using them in school zones, avoid distractions such as phone calls and loud music, and obey all posted speed limits. |
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Kino dino |
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“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” continues to be a Summer blockbuster juggernaut and is looking to overtake “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” as the highest-grossing domestic film unadjusted for inflation after adding another $144 million to its total. “The Odyssey” continues to be the adult-oriented film of the Summer, adding another massive $32 million, while “One Night Only,” the new rom-com that critics jokingly called “The Purge” but with sex, had a modest opening weekend at $5.5 million. Still, it could have legs like the Director’s previous film “Anybody But You” — something to keep an eye on. We hope you are ready for some dinosaur action this weekend, as both of the two biggest releases feature extinct animals at the forefront. “The End of Oak Street” is the latest film from FSUFilm alumnus David Robert Mitchell, whose credits include 2018’s “Under the Silver Lake,” starring Oscar nominee Andrew Garfield, and his mega indie cult-classic breakout hit “It Follows” — which, side note, is receiving a sequel soon entitled “They Follow.” The plot follows a suburban ’80s family, the Platts, who are suddenly thrown into the age of dinosaurs and forced to survive the craziness in their neighborhood. The film stars Oscar winner — and woman who is everywhere this year — Anne Hathaway (“Les Misérables”, “The Dark Knight Rises”) and Emmy winner Ewan McGregor (“Star Wars,” “Trainspotting”). It has received relatively positive reviews, with some critics even calling it the best dinosaur movie since “The Lost World.” It currently has an 84% on Rotten Tomatoes (74% audience), a 6.6 on IMDb and a 3.2 on Letterboxd. Why not support an FSUFilm alumnus, enjoy a fun family dino movie and let its sub-100-minute runtime fly by? The biggest complaints tend to center on character decision-making, but it’s a survival/disaster movie; that’s just a given with the genre. And let’s also ignore that stupid AI dog podcast marketing Warner Brothers did for this movie, because who exactly was that for? 
The film is being described as 'a gonzo good time.' Image via AP. For a much more kid-friendly — or toddler-friendly — dinosaur outing, there’s “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie.” If you have a youngling or know anyone with a young child or toddler — especially one born between 2018 and 2022 — you’re more than familiar with this children’s programming. The plot follows the classic PAW Patrol pups as they get stranded on an uncharted tropical island filled with dinosaurs. And when that no-good Mayor gets up to his notorious scheming, he causes a dormant volcano to erupt, throwing the pups into a series of high-stakes, dino-sized rescues. The new film is directed and co-written by Cal Brunker, who helmed the previous two films as well as “Escape from Planet Earth” and “The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature.” You know what you are getting with this, and you know it's probably not for you. But the film has an 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 6.1 on IMDb and a 2.9 on Letterboxd. At home, Prime Video has season 4 of “Reacher,” based on Lee Child’s ever-popular Jack Reacher novel series and starring Niceville native Alan Ritchson (“Motor City,” “War Machine”). The season currently has a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes and promises more of the maximum entertainment and brawn you’ve come to expect. Or you can dive into James Gunn’s DC and, on Sunday, watch the new Green Lantern show “Lanterns” — starring Emmy winner Kyle Chandler (“Friday Night Lights,” “Argo”) and Aaron Pierre (“Mufasa”, “The Morning Show”), aka the man who really made the Jennifer Hudson hallway videos go viral. The show follows two lanterns who are drawn to Earth to investigate a murder. It has an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and, yes, appears to tie in Nathan Fillion’s Lantern character from the most recent “Superman” movie and “Peacemaker” cameo. Happy watching. |
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Capital Directions |
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