Issuu

Tallahassee

Leon County to Add New Strategic Initiatives

By Steve Stewart

Circuit Judge John Cooper, citing “fatal flaws”, dismissed a lawsuit filed by City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow that alleged the structure of the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency’s violated Florida’s Sunshine Laws.

Page 6

On Tuesday, February 11, the Leon County Commission (Board) will vote to add new Strategic Initiatives following an open discussion among elected officials and staff at the recently concluded annual retreat.

Page 1

Florida State University has completed the acquisition of the Governor’s Square theater complex in Tallahassee, a significant milestone for the College of Motion Picture Arts.

Page 3

The U.S. Senate Tuesday night confirmed Florida prosecutor Pam Bondi as the attorney general of the United States under President Donald Trump.

Page 7

The December jobs report shows Leon County lost 485 jobs and the unemployment rate fell to 3.2%.

Page 10

Four Leon County teams win soccer district titles. Get the details. Page 12

Leon County Commission Votes 5-2 Against Affordable Housing Proposal

By Steve Stewart

On Tuesday, the Leon County Commission voted 5-2 against a Capital Area Justice Ministry (CAJM) proposal that would reallocate 20% of the County’s portion of the Blueprint infrastructure surtax to establish an “Affordable Rental Housing Land Acquisition and Leaseback Program.” County Commissioners Bill Proctor and David O’Keefe voted for the proposal. Those voting against included com -

The initiatives were added across four issue areas which include the economy, environment, quality of life, and governance.

The Strategic Initiatives will be included in the updated FY 2022 – 2026 Strategic Plan and assigned to the appropriate departments. The departments will develop proposed implementation plans for the new Strategic Initiatives.

The agenda item notes that throughout the life of the Strategic Plan, the Board will be presented with agenda or budget discussion items recommending specific actions necessary to advance the Strategic Initiatives including identifying any associated fis-

cal impacts. In addition, the Board will receive an update on all Strategic Initiatives as part of the midyear strategic plan update during the June budget workshop.

New Strategic Initiatives: Economy

Expand our economic competitiveness by hosting the 2025 Motor, Drive Systems, and Magnetics Conference and explore opportunities to attract future magnetic conferences as part of our broader efforts to establish TallahasseeLeon County as the magnetic capital of the world.

DeSantis: ‘We’ll Land the Plane’ on Immigration

By Dara Kam The News Service of Florida

TALLAHASSEE — After spending a week castigating a legislative plan addressing illegal immigration, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday adopted a more conciliatory tone as he laid out his proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

DeSantis has been locked in a fierce battle with House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, and Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, over how to help carry out President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.

But as DeSantis held a news conference Monday to announce his proposed budget, he tamped down the dispute.

“We’ve had great discussions. I think we’ll land the plane,” DeSantis said when asked about the immigration issue.

The Republican-controlled Legislature during a special session last week snubbed a plan floated by DeSantis and instead approved a measure that would make Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson the state’s immigration czar. The legislation (SB 2-B) would give Simpson’s office oversight of nearly $500 million in grants to state and local law-enforcement agencies to assist with the Trump administration’s illegal-immigration

efforts.

DeSantis made the rounds on national radio and television to excoriate the legislative leaders’ proposal, calling it “weak” and a “pro-amnesty” bill. The governor and his allies also unleashed attacks on social media, as DeSantis threatened to back GOP candidates in next year’s legislative and gubernatorial primary races. DeSantis focused his critique on the part of the plan that would establish Simpson — a potential 2026 gubernatorial candidate who is close to Trump — as the state’s chief immigration officer.

The governor also said he would veto the bill, though the Legislature had not formally sent it to him as of Monday afternoon.

The showdown over the immigration proposal is the first time Republican lawmakers publicly have broken with the governor on a major issue since his election in 2018.

DeSantis on Monday credited the Legislature for partnering with him and delivering on his agenda for the past six years.

“And while I am the most wellknown of all the folks up here, the reality is that the Legislature has had a huge role to play in that,” the governor said. “And I just think it wouldn’t be within their character of their more recent actions to not aggressively address illegal immigration, given the historic moment.”

By Amy Farnum-Patronis FSU News

The Florida Board of Governors appointed Peter Jones to Florida State University’s Board of Trustees on Jan. 30. The FSU alumnus begins his term immediately.

A native of Clearwater, Florida, Jones graduated from the College of Business with a Bachelor of Science in accounting in 1977. He has extensive senior executive, accounting and investment management experience at firms in the investment management industry.

In 2015, Jones ended a 27-year career at Franklin Templeton Investments, where he served as chairman of Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC and president of Franklin Templeton Distributors Inc.

After retirement, Jones became an FSU adjunct professor, teaching finance classes over four summers in the university’s study abroad program in London and Valencia, Spain. In 2018, he was inducted into the FSU College of Business Hall of Fame.

Jones has devoted countless hours of service to his alma mater as a board member

Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch and County Manager Vince Long participate in County's annual retreat.

TOC Announces Opening of the Spine and Joint Surgery Center & New CEO

The Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic (TOC) recently announced the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art Spine and Joint Surgery Center and the appointment of Kelby Tardi as Chief Executive Officer. Revolutionizing Orthopedic Care with the Spine and Joint Surgery Center

The Spine and Joint Surgery Center, located in Tallahassee, is an advanced Ambulatory Surgical Center designed to deliver cutting-edge spine and joint care. A joint venture between TOC and HCA Healthcare, the center represents a new era of collaboration and innovation in orthopedic healthcare.

“The Spine and Joint Surgery Center represents a transformative step in orthopedic care for our region,” said Dr. Matthew Lee, Spine Surgeon and Managing Partner at TOC. “This facility is a testament to our commitment to providing the highest level of care, combining advanced surgical technology with a patient-centered approach to achieve the best possible outcomes.”

Leon County Government is once again offering County residents the opportunity to plant a tree on unincorporated Leon County properties for free through its Adopt-A-Tree Program.

The deadline for the program has been extended to Monday, February 17, 2025. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis at LeonCountyFL.gov/AdoptATree. When applying, residents may select the “delivery only” option if they prefer to plant the tree at their own convenience. For those in need of assistance, Leon County staff will be available to aid with tree placement and installation for those who choose the "delivery and plant" option.

Starting in Spring 2025, Leon County will commence tree deliveries and planting for county residents. This year, residents can select from two na-

Key features of the facility include minimally invasive surgical technology to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes, state-of-the-art surgical suites equipped with the latest technology to support complex spine and joint procedures, dedicated pre- and post-operative care spaces designed for patient comfort and efficiency and patient-centered design and amenities focused on enhancing the overall surgical experience.

A New Leader for TOC in 2025

TOC also announced Kelby Tardi as its new Chief Executive Officer. Kelby, who has been with TOC for 25 years, previously served as Chief Financial Officer and has been instrumental in the clinic's growth and success.

“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue TOC’s legacy of excellence,” said Kelby Tardi, CEO of TOC. “Our focus remains on innovation, patient care, and supporting the communities we serve. The Spine and Joint Surgery Center is just one example of our dedication to advancing

tive species: Riverbirch, a medium-sized tree that may grow 50 to 90 feet tall and normally grows with a central leader and small-diameter, dark-colored lateral branches Shumard Oak, a large, stately tree with a narrow, rather open, rounded canopy, somewhat reminiscent of red oak.

The act of planting native trees and other vegetation plays a crucial role in safeguarding our natural ecosystem by providing essential habitat and sustenance for native insects, birds, and other creatures that call Leon County home. To ensure the successful establishment of these new trees, the County encourages homeowners to water the tree three times a week for one year. The tree can be planted anywhere between a house and any publicly or privately maintained road

orthopedic care.”

The press release noted that Kelby “brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of TOC’s mission, and a commitment to strengthening its impact within the community. Her vision for the future includes continued

with public access.

Since 2007, through the Adopt-A-Tree Program, Leon County has planted more than 4,800 trees in nearly 250 neighborhoods, allowing citizens to enhance the beauty and value of their properties and communities. The Adopt-a-Tree Program is one of the County’s many ways to protect our local ecosystem and value our environment and natural beauty as a vital component of our community’s health, economic strength and social offerings.

expansion of services, the integration of cutting-edge medical technologies, and further enhancement of patient experiences across all locations.”

To participate in the program, interested County residents can register at LeonCountyFL.gov/AdoptATree by Monday, February 17, 2025.

For more details, contact Dean Richards, Leon County Public Works, at (850) 606-1400 / RichardsD@LeonCountyFL.gov, or Mathieu Cavell, Leon County Community and Media Relations, at (850) 606-5300 / CMR@ LeonCountyFL.gov.

First Tee – Tallahassee Names Callie Kitchens as LPGA *USGA Girls Golf Program Director

First Tee – Tallahassee recently announced Callie Kitchens as its new LPGA *USGA Girls Golf Program Director. Kitchens, recently named by the Tallahassee Democrat as the Big Bend Preps Boys Coach of the Year, brings a proven track record of coaching excellence to the only national junior golf program that specializes in providing girl-friendly environments for juniors to learn about the game.

“Bringing Callie on board is a tremendous win for our program,“ said Chuck Urban, Founder and Chairman of First Tee – Tallahassee. “Our goal has been to expand the program, offering all youth in the region, especially girls, the chance to work with experienced coaches who will make the game of golf fun, while also teaching them valuable life skills like confidence and perseverance.”

with her father when she was very young. Riding in a golf cart was what incentivized her to get on the course. Under her father’s guidance she learned how to chip and putt. Starting in 8th grade she played for North Florida Christian High School where she won districts five times as an individual and won regionals twice. She also played collegiate golf for Daytona State College and Lee University, winning a national championship at both institutions.

“I think it is important for young girls to see themselves represented in the sport, so they feel empowered to play their game with confidence,” said Kitchens. “My hope is that every girl that attends our sessions will find the game of golf fun, tell their friends about it, and continue to build their confidence to play or compete for

Prior to joining First Tee – Tallahassee, Kitchens served as the Lincoln High School boys' golf team coach for five years. During that time, she was named Coach of the Year twice and attributes that success to the young men she coached.

“Their hard work and dedication made me a better coach,” she said. “I was very proud to lead such a successful team in Leon County. I am thankful for the administration allowing me the privilege of working with such talented and committed athletes.”

About First Tee - Tallahassee

First Tee — Tallahassee is one of 150 First Tee chapters across the U.S. and select international locations. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the

First Tee School Program In more than 10,000 elementary schools across the United States, many students are teeing off for the first time thanks to the First Tee School Program, bringing our curriculum to elementary school gyms during physical education class. Through safe, fun activities, elementary students are learning the basic skills of the lifelong sport of golf. By teaching elementary students about core values and healthy habits, we’re putting them on the course to a healthy and active

Florida State University College Of Motion Picture Arts Acquires Theater For College Expansion

By Anna Prentiss FSU News

Florida State University has completed the acquisition of the Governor’s Square theater complex in Tallahassee, a significant milestone for the College of Motion Picture Arts.

This acquisition enhances the college’s production facilities and supports its commitment to innovation by providing essential space for virtual production, production design and a new entrepreneurial feature film program, in addition to opportunities for screening films.

“When the film school was established in 1989 with the mission to prepare students for successful careers in the motion picture industry, it was given nearly every tool needed to become one of the greatest colleges dedicated to film education — except one: a movie theater of its own,” said Reb Braddock, dean of the College of Motion Picture Arts.

For decades, the college has lacked an exhibition facility to showcase its students’ work and curate the very cinema it seeks to inspire. Each year, the college has had to rely on external venues, subject to their schedules and prices. Those elements created a bottleneck in the kind of cinematic programming the film school could provide. This acquisition changes that.

Since Florida State University’s First Lady Jai Vartikar arrived in Tallahassee, she has focused on supporting and enhancing the world class art schools at FSU and took an interest in

The Music of Billy Joel Starring Michael Cavanaugh with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra

Friday, February 14, 2025, 7:30 PM, Ruby Diamond Concert Hall Michael Cavanaugh is the new voice of the American Rock & Roll Songbook and a charismatic performer and musician made famous for his piano/lead vocals in the

helping the college acquire a theater of its own. She saw the potential of the Governor’s Square theater and worked to help facilitate its purchase.

“We are profoundly grateful to Dr. Vartikar and the incredible leadership team of President Richard McCullough, Provost Jim Clark and Vice President Kyle Clark for making it possible for Florida State University to acquire the theater facilities,” Braddock said.

The new facility will house the college’s Center for Cinematic Innovation, known as Torchlight Studios, relocating it from Midway, Florida, to the heart of Tallahassee.

Torchlight Studios focuses on lighting the pathways from education to industry by bringing state-of-the-art production resources, including an innovative virtual production stage that features a high-tech LED screen. That technology, made famous by shows like “The Mandalorian” and “House of the Dragon,” allows filmmakers to use interactive virtual backgrounds to enhance their productions.

Another arm of Torchlight Studios is Torchlight Cinematheque, which has curated films that have been screened by FSU’s festival of the fine and performing arts, Opening Nights, and in venues around the region. For the first time, the Cinematheque will have a dedicated exhibition space to celebrate cinema within the Tallahassee community.

“This visionary move transforms the Governor’s Square theater into a true center for film appreciation and

Broadway musical “Movin’ Out”. Handpicked by Billy Joel to star in “Movin’ Out”, Cavanaugh evokes a style rivaling the Piano Man. He appeared in the show for three years with over 1,200 performances and received multiple accolades. The show culminated in 2003 with both Grammy and Tony Award nominations. It wasn’t long before symphony orchestras discovered Cavanaugh’s talents and audience appeal.

production, with a strong focus on community engagement,” Braddock said. “The college will open its doors to showcase the cinematic work of its students, faculty and alumni and to create unique theatrical experiences curated for the broader Tallahassee audience.”

Provost Clark emphasized the innovative curriculum and industry connections of the film school.

“The College of Motion Picture Arts at FSU is renowned for its cuttingedge curriculum and robust industry links that prepare our students for successful careers in the motion picture industry,” Clark said. “This new facility will enhance our ability to deliver an unparalleled educational

Phat Cat Swinger

Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 7:30 PM, Opperman Music Hall

If Bruno Mars and Frank Sinatra made a band, it’d look and sound like Phat Cat Swinger. Phat Cat Swinger specializes in high-energy music with that classic Hollywood touch. What sets them apart is the showmanship, movement, and creative takes on swing

experience and foster strong ties with the professional film community.”

The facility will enable FSU students to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences to ensure that they are well-prepared for their careers and can showcase their talents both locally and globally as distinguished alumni.

“It is my hope that this facility will become a new partner in all things cinematic for the Tallahassee community,” Braddock said. “Our dream is for Tallahassee to see this not as the loss of another movie theater but as an exciting opportunity for the film school and the community to come together to celebrate our shared love of the movies.”

classics. The band can often be experienced on The Disneyland Resort stages, presenting re-imagined Disney songs and originals in the iconic Phat Cat sound. Phat Cat Swinger is featured in videos with Christina Aguilera and The Jonas Brothers. They appear at A-List shindigs, like the Playboy Mansion, and JJ Abrams invited them to perform for his company, Bad Robot Productions. Their end of show salute,

“Together…we are…Phat Cat Swinger!” means that they are a band in every sense of the word – every cat on stage shines.

By Staff

TPD Announces Arrests in Drug Trafficking Search Warrants

The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) recently completed multiple investigations into drug trafficking and related crimes. TPD reported that a series of search warrants over the past two months resulted in arrests, drug seizures and illegal firearms confiscations, “further strengthening efforts to reduce the availability of illegal narcotics in the community.”

In a press release, TPD provided the following details related to the arrests.

Arrestee: Cameron White, 37 years of age

Search Warrant Location: 5000 block of Lakefront Drive

Charges: Trafficking Heroin; Trafficking MDMA; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell; Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell (six counts): oxycodone, alprazolam, methylphenidate, clonazepam, norbuprenorphine, and lisdexamfetamine; Possession of Psylocibin Mushrooms with Intent to Sell; Operating a Drug House; Possession of Firearms in the Commission of a Felony; Cultivation of Cannabis; Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Summary: TPD’s Special Investigations Section received information that Cameron White was selling drugs in the Tallahassee area, and an investigation was started. Both FDLE and the State Attorney’s office participated in the investigation. On Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, TPD’s Special Investigations Unit and Violent Crime Response Team executed a residential search warrant at White’s residence near the 5000 block of Lakefront Drive. The search of the residence yielded 113.7 grams of heroin; 14.6 grams of cocaine;

124.4 grams of MDMA; 79.1 grams of prescription pills; 140.4 grams of psylocibin mushrooms; nine firearms (three AK-47s, a shotgun and five handguns); and approximately $3,600. Arrestees: Pedro Cornet, 30 years of age, and Iosif Rojas, 21 years of age Search Warrant Location: 1700 block of Wade Road Charges: Trafficking Phenethylamines (MDMA) (three charges), Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell, Psylocibin Mushrooms with Intent to Sell, Cannabis with Intent to Sell, Operating a Structure for Drug Trafficking, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell (High THC cartridges) Summary: Detectives received information that Pedro Cornet and his coconspirator Iosif Rojas were involved in trafficking MDMA in the Tallahassee area. During the investigation, a search warrant was obtained and executed on Dec. 6, 2024, at Cornet’s residence in the 1700 block of Wade Road. The search yielded 441 grams of Cannabis, 146 grams of psylocibin mushrooms, 12.4 grams of Phenethylamines (MDMA), 16 high THC vape cartridges, 3.8 grams of Cocaine, and approximately $2,900. Cornet was currently out on bond for a Trafficking in Cocaine charge from March 2023 and eight charges from a June 2024 arrest that included a seizure of over two pounds of MDMA and numerous firearms.

Arrestee: Gregory Martin, 61 years of age Search Warrant Location: 2700 block of Peachtree Drive Charges: Trafficking Phenethylamines, Trafficking Methamphetamine, Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Sell

within 1,000 Feet of a School, Manufacturing Crack Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Structure or Vehicle Known to Traffick Drugs, Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Grand Theft of a Firearm, Possession of a Machine Gun, Possession of Paraphernalia Summary: GregoryMartin had an arrest warrant for Failure to Appear Felony Theft. Detectives observed Martin at his primary residence and took him into custody. While doing so, probable cause was established to procure a search warrant for the residence. The search on Dec. 13, 2024, yielded 47 grams of synthetic cathinone, 15 grams of methamphetamine, 3.6 grams of fentanyl, one gram of crack cocaine, crack cocaine manufacturing items, a .300 blackout rifle, a 32-caliber revolver, and a stolen Glock 17 equipped with a “Glock switch.”

Arrestee: Ermias Kahassai, 25 years of age Location: 1400 block of Capital Circle NE Charges: Trafficking Marijuana, Burglary of Structure/Unoccupied Summary: A storage facility employee called to report a large amount of marijuana in an unrented unit. Detectives determined that Ermias Kahassai recently moved items from one storage unit to the vacant unit. Probable cause was established, and 30 pounds of marijuana was found inside the storage unit during a search conducted on Dec. 17, 2024. When Kahassai returned to the unit, he was observed carrying a suitcase. Inside the suitcase was an additional nine pounds of marijuana and $3,900.

Arrestee: Jaquez Harris, 25 years of age

Search Warrant Location: 700 block

Deputy Philip Pepper Recognized by LCSO

By Staff

Deputy Philip Pepper was recently selected as the Leon County Sheriff’s Office sworn Law Enforcement Employee of the Month for February 2025.

Deputy Pepper began his career with Leon County Sheriff’s Office in November 2020 as a Detention Deputy, serving in the Housing Unit. In June 2023, Deputy Pepper transitioned to the LCSO Uniform Patrol Division, where he currently serves. Sergeant Matt Sears nominated Deputy Pepper for Employee of the Month. Below is the nomination:

During the month of October, a series of vehicle burglaries were taking place in the northwest sector of Leon County in the Lakeshore Drive area. Soon thereafter an intelligence bulletin was issued by CID, when surveillance cameras showed an image of a man on a scooter prowling in the area of one of the confirmed car burglaries.

During the following shift check-on, I approached Deputy Phillip Pepper who was assigned to work for me in the NW sector for the night. Before I could make any request, Deputy Pepper (who typically works in the south sectors) advised me he had already

reviewed his emails and was familiar with the description of the car burglar. He insured me when time and duty permitted, he would be in the area to look for the suspect.

On November 4th at 2300 hours, Deputy Pepper called-out with a suspicious person on Meridian Road, just blocks from the Lakeshore area which had been struck by the crime spree. Upon my arrival on scene, it was apparent that Deputy Pepper located the exact subject being shown on the surveillance photo screenshots (thin male, wearing a jacket with reflective tape on the back, carrying a bag with reflective tape, and operating a scooter with a built-in headlight attached). The man was identified by Deputy Pepper, and a thorough FIR was completed, with accompanying photographs. With no existing probable cause, CID was notified of the incident, and the man was released.

The next morning one car burglary was discovered only blocks away from where the stop took place. Since the night of the suspicious persons stop, there have been no new car burglaries in the Lakeshore area. In addition, CID took the FIR and gathered enough additional information to charge the subject that Deputy Pepper identified

with multiple vehicle burglaries.

The above instance is a great example of strong proactive policing. Deputy Pepper was alerted to a problem (car burglaries in the NW), he did the requisite research (studying the photographs provided), and then he implemented a plan to solve the problem (patrolling the area of interest for the suspect during the time when the crimes were occurring). Deputy Pepper should be congratulated for his efforts and proud of a job well done.

of Pointe Court Charges: Trafficking in Synthetic Cathinones, Possession of Controlled Substance, Drugs-Sell Possess Structure Vehicle, Know Sell Drugs, Possession of Weapon, or Ammunition by Other State Felon, Possession of Paraphernalia Summary: While on a call at a neighboring apartment, Jaquez Harris was observed throwing narcotics and drugrelated materials out a rear window. A search warrant was ultimately signed, and the search conducted on Jan. 14, 2025, yielded multiple caliber rounds and one firearm. A total of 58 prepackaged bags of synthetic cathinone weighing 14.7 grams were recovered from the rear of the residence.

Arrestee: Curtis Battle, 37 years of age Search Warrant Location: 2200 block of Hartsfield Way Charges: Trafficking Heroin, Trafficking Cocaine, Trafficking Oxycodone, Possession of Phenethylamines with Intent to Sell, Possession of Marijuana – more than 20 Grams, Possession of Firearm or Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Paraphernalia Summary: Detectives received information that Curtis Battle was selling narcotics in the Tallahassee area. Through TPD’s investigation, probable cause was sought for his arrest and a search of his residence. During the arrest on Jan. 15, 2025, Battle was in possession of 6.5 grams of crack cocaine, 1.5 grams of powder cocaine, and 3.5 grams of marijuana. A search of the residence yielded the following: 30.5 grams of cocaine, 206.2 grams of heroin, 91.4 grams of Oxycodone (suspected pressed fentanyl), 534 grams of marijuana, 7.8 grams of synthetic cathinone, 9mm ammunition, and $15,036.

TPD Responds to Dog Attacks

officers were

WE CONQUER ALL PEAKS

On February 2nd, 2025, at approximately 11:26 am, TPD

Tallahassee-Leon County to Host 2025 Motor, Drive Systems & Magnetics Conference

By Steve Stewart

The Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) recently announced that Tallahassee-Leon County will host the 2025 Motor, Drive Systems & Magnetics (MDSM) Conference, taking place this February 18–20, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

The event attracts more than 400 industry experts, innovators, and decision-makers from across the world to explore advancements in magnetics, motor design, drive systems, and motion control technologies. The MDSM Conference caters to industries such as automotive, renewable energy, electronics, healthcare, and beyond—drawing global corporations like Apple, Google, Philips, Samsung,

CITGO, Amazon, Ford, Toshiba, Toyota, Hyundai, and HP. Attendees have the opportunity to discuss the latest economic trends, cutting-edge materials, and technical innovations driving the future of these industries.

The press release notes that “Tallahassee-Leon County is uniquely positioned to support the conference’s focus on magnetics and applied sciences with world-class research facilities like the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab), the Florida Center for Aero-Propulsion, the Center for Advanced Power Systems, and the High-Performance Materials Institute.”

Bringing the MDSM Conference to Tallahassee-Leon County was a collaborative effort led by OEV, aligning the event’s purpose with the region’s

strengths. Partners included Florida State University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, the MagLab, Danfoss Turbocor, the City of Tallahassee, Leon County Government, FloridaCommerce, Visit Tallahassee, the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce, the Capital City Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce.

Keith Bowers, Director of the Office of Economic Vitality said, “The MDSM Conference is a tremendous opportunity for Tallahassee-Leon County to shine on the global stage as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing. Bringing this prestigious event to our region allows us to showcase our world-class assets like the National MagLab and Dan-

foss Turbocor, connect with industry leaders, and foster collaborations that can drive future investments and job creation in our community.”

MDSM will offer a lineup of keynote speakers, technical sessions, and networking opportunities to inspire collaboration and innovation. Attendees can tour the MagLab and Danfoss Turbocor at Innovation Park. Designed for professionals advancing magnetic systems, emerging technologies, or global market solutions, MDSM provides actionable insights and unmatched opportunities to connect with industry leaders shaping these industries.

Leon County to Expand Strategic Initiatives

INITIATIVES, From Front Page

Coordinate with the Local Technology Planning Teams to evaluate areas lacking reliable broadband and cellular services and additional opportunities to work with industry stakeholders to direct investments in these areas.

Explore opportunities to attract Top 100 Billboard artists for concerts and performances at various local venues throughout the year.

Evaluate recreational amenities in Southwest Leon County, including Lake Talquin, J. Lewis Hall Sr. Park, and the St. Marks Trail, for opportunities to host annual events and competitions.

New Strategic Initiatives: Environment

Engage an engineering consultant to complete the Miccosukee Road Greenway Trail Flood Study to identify solutions to flooding along Miccosukee Road.

Initiate a feasibility study as a component of Phase II implementation of the Apalachee Regional Park Master Plan.

Exempt land conservancy groups, such as Tall Timbers, from environmental permitting requirements for activities that support and further their mission of fostering exemplary land stewardship such as tree removal and other vegetation management.

New Strategic Initiatives: Quality of Life

Continue to coordinate with DISC Village, Inc., and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office in leveraging opioid settlement funding to provide substance abuse treatment and ancillary services for individuals with opioid and substance use disorders in the community.

Continue to support the Big Bend Continuum of Care in the coordination and implementation of the annual Point-In-Time Count to collect homeless data critical to securing state and federal funding.

Support the Children’s Services Council of Leon County in hosting

Leon County Commission Meeting Briefs: Jan. 28

By Steve Stewart

Below are the news briefs from the Leon County Commission meeting held on January 28, 2025. The Board approved Consent Items 1-19.

The consent items included approval of procurement awards related to Fiscal Year 2025 Insurance Coverage Renewals and approval of an agreement for security guard services.

The consent also included three status reports: Annual Status Report on the Leon County Water Quality Monitoring Program and the 2024 Water Quality Report, Food Distribution and Healthcare Services in Woodville, Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Performance and Financial Report, and the Annual Sustainability Program Status Report Including the Semiannual Report on Curbside Waste Collection

Consent Items Pulled for Discussion

Item 20: Feasibility of Placing a Storm Shelter in Woodville, pulled by Commissioner Caban. The Board voted 7-0 to delay consideration of this item for three months.

General Business

Item 21: Capital Area Justice Ministry Proposal and Leon County’s Ongoing Commitment and Efforts to Increase Affordable Housing. The Board voted 5-2 against a Capital Area Justice Ministry (CAJM) proposal that would reallocate 20% of the County’s portion of the Blueprint infrastructure surtax to establish an “Affordable Rental Housing Land Acquisition and Leaseback Program.” County Commissioners Bill Proctor and David O’Keefe voted for the proposal. Those voting against included commissioners Brian Welch, Nick Maddox, Rick Minor, Carolyn Cummings, and Christian Caban.

Item 22: Contract Award for the Leon County Solid Waste Facility Class I and Class III South Landfill Closure Project. The Board voted 7-0 to approve the contract award for the Solid Waste Management Facility Class I

and Class III South Landfill Closure

project to T & K Construction LLC in the amount of $16,706,516 and to authorize the County Administrator to execute the agreement subject to legal review by the County Attorney.

Item 23: Contract Award for Additional Lobbying Services for the 2025 State Legislative Session. The Leon County Commission voted 4-3 to award a contract to the Southern Group for supplemental lobbying services for the 2025 State Legislative Session.

Item 24: Full Board Appointments to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. The Board voted to appoint four eligible applicants to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee for three-year terms ending on January 31, 2028. The appointees were Lawrence Tobe, Michael Parker, Danielle Andrews and Christie Perkins.

Scheduled Public Hearings, 6:00 P.M.

Item 25: The Board voted 7-0, during the First and Only Public Hearing, for an Ordinance Amending Chapter 4, Article II, of the Leon County Code of Laws regarding Animal Control to Prohibit the Retail Sale of Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits. The amendment prohibits the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in unincorporated Leon County. The proposed Ordinance would not prohibit retailers from holding pet adoption events in coordination with animal shelters and animal rescue organizations. It would also continue to allow breeders to sell animals directly to the public at non-retail locations and allow for private sales between individuals. The amendment also grandfathers in one business that currently sells rabbits.

Item 26: The Board voted 5-2 (Minor, Okeefe against) - during the First and Only Public Hearing – to adopt an Ordinance Amending Chapter 6, Sections 6-32 and 6-34, and Chapter 14, Section 14-56, of the Leon County Code of Laws relating to Hearing Procedure and Administrative Fines and Liens.

Family Resource Centers at county facilities.

Explore innovative strategies to enhance pedestrian safety, including traffic safety studies and utilizing automated speed detection technology in school zones.

Develop a Woodville Rural Community Sense of Place Plan to evaluate land uses and guide future improvements in the Woodville area and coordinate with County Public Works in developing a 5-year improvement plan to include vehicular and pedestrian safety.

New Strategic Initiatives: Governance

Coordinate with the Public Safety Coordinating Council, the Judiciary, Court Administration, and other partners in implementing the jail population management strategies identified by the Leon County Detention Facility Needs Assessment Report.

Execute all 41 after-action recommendations from 2024, addressing key findings, and lessons learned from the

Bicentennial Storm, the May 2024 Tornado Outbreak, and Hurricane Helene to strengthen County preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

Expand efforts to build public awareness of the County’s Code Compliance Program through ongoing neighborhood engagement and public information efforts.

Establish a Citizen Charter Review Committee to review the County’s Home Rule Charter and propose any amendments or revisions ahead of the 2026 General Election.

Expand effort to reduce graffiti and roadside littering by coordinating with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office to explore the development of a new anti-graffiti/ anti-littering program that would install Capital Region Real-Time Crime Center (CRRTCC) cameras in selected areas, on a rotating basis, where graffiti and roadside littering are severe.

Leon County School Board Meeting Briefs: Jan. 28

By Maddox Goodman

Provided below are news briefs from the January 28, 2025, Leon County School Board meeting related to Recognitions, Reports and items considered by Board members.

Recognitions & Reports

The Board recognized the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce Annual Title I Golf Tournament and accepted a donation focused on Title 1 schools.

The Board received an update on school choice marketing efforts.

Items Considered by the Board

Item 11.01: The Board approved a project that will fund the purchase and installment of advanced mechanical robotic equipment for expanding the Robotics Engineering Pathway program at SAIL high school.

Item 12.01: The Board approved a five-year Field Experience Agreement with Nova Southeastern University, to provide educational experiences for selected pre-service teachers.

Item 17.01: The Board approved the removal of portable classrooms located at Killearn Lakes Elementary School. The agenda item noted that the portables are not needed to meet capacity requirements and have been found to be no longer structurally feasible to maintain.

Item 18.01: The Board voted to support the Superintendent recommendation to approve a Short Form Agreement with Rippee Construction, Inc., at Chiles High School Welding Lab Project.

Item 19.01: The Board discussed the K-5 Science Adoption Public Hearing scheduled for February 11th, 2025. The new science curriculum was chosen by a committee of teachers from all Leon County elementary schools off a list provided by the Florida Department of Edu -

cation. The teacher’s final choice was McGraw Hill Florida Science, and the public has the opportunity to view the adopted materials online on the LCPS website.

Item 19.02: The Board voted unanimously to approve the 20242025 Compensation Plan, Memorandum of Understandings, and revisions to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Leon County School and the Leon Classroom Teachers Association (LCTA). The compensation proposal includes a 3.037% increase for all teachers with at least one year of experience. Also included is a performance pay provision which will be supplemental for all teachers who are a part of LCTA.

Article revisions to the Collective Bargaining Agreement include an increase in bereavement leave from 3 days to 5 days, and the implementation of a sick-leave buyback plan. The sick-leave buyback plan will apply to any teacher who misses 4 or less days during the school year and is intended to reward teachers who maintain consistent attendance. The two other article revisions will span only the 2024-2025 contract years and include five days paid parental leave and an employee childcare assistance trial program. The childcare program will include free before and after school care for children of eligible employees.

The Superintendent also spoke on the current situation surrounding immigration and ICE raids happening across the county. The superintendent has been in talks with individuals across the county and recently sent out a memo across the district to all principals giving clear direction if agents arrive at their schools. Superintendent Hanna said that if agents show up with proper documents and subpoenas, that the school district will follow the law, continuing by saying that “This is more about bad actor adults that potentially are here illegally as opposed to 6 and 7 year olds”.

Citing “Fatal Flaws”, Judge Dismisses Matlow’s Blueprint Lawsuit

By Steve Stewart

City officials reported that as of Sept. 23, the Blueprint IA had paid $55,821 for legal services and costs related to Matlow’s lawsuit.

Matlow, who had previously called the Blueprint process a sham, filed a lawsuit two years ago arguing that the agency’s Intergovernmental Management Committee (IMC) to determine whether the two-person committee is subject to Florida’s broad open government laws regarding open meetings and public access to records. The IMC consists of City Manager Reese

Goad and County Administrator Vince Long.

On Monday Judge Cooper granted Blueprint’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit based on the fact the suit did not identify any actions taken by Blueprint. The dismissal will not allow Matlow to refile the complaint. Matlow’s Lawsuit

When Matlow filed the lawsuit in 2022, he said decisions about local infrastructure spending are too often made outside the public view.

“Over the course of four years, I’ve heard from people all across our community, whether it was the unfortunate way the northeast gateway progressed—you know hundreds of residents in Killearn showing up being confused about the process, not knowing who to speak to. We saw that play

out with the Doak Campbell Stadium. People were asking what happened before we got here, how did this come out of nowhere? I think those are valid questions and they speak to the sunshine concern,” Matlow said.

However, Susan Dawson, an attorney representing Blueprint, said the IMC does not need to comply with the Sunshine Law because it’s not a board. Even though it does make recommendations, Dawson explained the IMC functions more like a manager, in that the city manager and county administrator are managing the Blueprint director. Blueprint’s board is made up of city and county commissioners who are elected and meet publicly. But

the Intergovernmental Management Committee does not. The IMC is charged with administering Blueprint programs, recommending policy to the Blueprint board and carrying out its long-range direction. Part of that involves making recommendations about funding decisions.

Leon County Commission Votes 5-2 Against Affordable Housing Proposal

HOUSING, From Front Page

missioners Brian Welch, Nick Maddox, Rick Minor, Carolyn Cummings, and Christian Caban.

Concerns by officials who did not support the proposal included problems with funding projects outside of a normal budgeting process and the fact that the proposal focused on acquiring land for affordable housing. Officials indicated that acquiring land is not a major obstacle to building affordable housing at this time. Rather, it is matching developers with the needed financing arrangements.

Elected officials did vote 6-1 to look at the affordable housing issue during future budget discussions. Proctor voted no on the motion.

The Proposal

During the November 19, 2024, Board meeting, CAJM representatives requested the proposal be adopted to provide financial assistance to multifamily housing development projects (rental) to set aside units for very low and extremely low-income

households. A subsequent motion approved by the Board later in the meeting requested an agenda item on the CAJM proposal.

CAJM’s proposal is modeled after the Pinellas County’s Penny for Pinellas Land Assembly Funding Program which is one approach to address affordable housing. The Pinellas County Program acquires land for proposed affordable housing projects with the proceeds from the infrastructure surtax. The land is then leased to the affordable hous -

ing development at nominal or no cost for 99 years. The developers are required to set aside units for lowincome households for the duration of the lease agreement. The agenda item noted that CAJM’s request would reallocate approximately $1.2 million annually over the life of the current infrastructure tax (2039) and would require a reduction in funding to the roadway resurfacing program absent supplemental funding from another source.

Leon County’s Alex MacKinnon Wins Florida Emergency Preparedness Association Award

By Steve Stewart

Leon County Government recently announced that Leon County Emergency Management Coordinator Alex MacKinnon has been awarded the esteemed 2025 Gary Arnold Emergency Management Service Award. Presented by the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association (FEPA), this award recognizes an exceptional individual for their dedicated, unselfish, and enthusiastic service in advancing the emergency management community.

“I am incredibly proud of Leon County’s continuous focus on exceeding expectations in the areas of emergency management when our citizens need us most,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch. “Alex is an important part of the County team, and his exceptional efforts play a crucial role in our ongoing success in safeguarding our community.”

MacKinnon joined Leon County Emergency Management in 2016 and

has played a pivotal role in strengthening the County’s preparedness and response capabilities. His leadership during Hurricanes Hermine, Michael, Idalia, Debby, and Helene, and the May 10, 2024, Tornado Outbreak ensured coordinated and effective disaster response and recovery efforts. MacKinnon also helped established local initiatives, including the County’s Leon Ready online disaster resource hub and annual Disaster Survival Guide, which better equip residents with essential tools to pre-

pare for and recover from disasters.

“Alex is a local and statewide leader in the area of emergency management,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “For nine years, he has helped coordinate disaster response for 10 federally declared major disasters and so much more. His expertise and unwavering commitment have made a significant impact on emergency management both within Leon County and throughout the state.”

Board of Governors Appoints Alumnus Peter Jones to FSU Board of Trustees

JONES, From Front Page

for several support organizations, including the FSU Foundation Board of Trustees, the FSU International Programs Association and the FSU College of Business Student Investment Fund. He continues to serve on the FSU Foundation’s Investment Committee. From 2020-2023, he served as the inaugural chair of the Professional Advocacy Board for the Depart -

ment of Finance in the FSU College of Business. Jones currently serves on the Investment Advisory Council of the State Board of Administration of Florida and as an independent trustee of MFS Investment Management. Actively involved in the community, Jones served on the board of Copperhead Charities Inc., the host orga -

Dog Et Al Closes Southside Location Amid Safety Concerns

According to the owner, the Dog Et Al restaurant on South Monroe is permanently closed due to qualityof-life issues at the location.

Owner Adam Braun told a reporter with the Tallahassee Democrat that the restaurant has been relocated to Bannerman Crossing, a retail center in Northeast Leon County. The Bannerman Crossing location was opened in July 2024.

“We couldn’t really feel comfortable opening up at night and having employees there. It’s just unfortunate because I love the south side, so we want to try to open up somewhere (else) down there,” he said. “It’s not sustainable when you can only open up a fast-food restaurant for a two- or three-hour lunch.”

Braun cited theft, shootings in the area and an incident of a passer-by defecating in the parking lot.

Based on crime incident reports tabulated by Tallahassee Reports, Dog Et Al was located in one of the few areas that experienced an increase in total crime

nization of the PGA TOUR Valspar Championship, from 1990 to 2023 and the Tampa Bay Research Institute board from 2010-2024.

The FSU Board of Trustees is the 13-member governing board for the University.

Peter Collins is the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The Florida State University Board of Trustees was created in 2001 and is the

public body corporate of the university. It sets policy for the institution and serves as the institution’s legal owner and governing board. The Board of Trustees is responsible for high quality education programs within the laws of the State of Florida and Regulations of the Florida Board of Governors. The Board of Trustees holds the institution’s resources in trust and is responsible for their efficient and effective use.

Local News Briefs

incidents in 2024 when compared to 2023. Braun suggested another location could be opened somewhere in the greater downtown area.

Meriadoc Road Homicide Suspects Arrested

On January 28 at approximately 7:11 a.m., the Tallahassee Police Department responded to the 1800 block of Meriadoc Road in reference to a deceased subject lying in the roadway. Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit were quickly called to the scene. Over the past two days, detectives worked tirelessly to collect evidence and develop probable cause for the arrest of Thailan Williams and Deshan Jones. Detectives found that, at approximately 1:14 a.m., the victim drove Williams and Jones to the 1800 block of Meriadoc Drive. After exiting the vehicle, the victim was shot without any apparent precipitating altercation or provocation. Following the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in the victim's vehicle, with Jones driving. Later that morning, at

approximately 3:09 a.m., a Florida Highway Patrol officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle for a moving violation near the Leon-Jefferson County Line. The driver fled the traffic stop and ultimately crashed the vehicle near the Jefferson County Courthouse. Williams and Jones fled the scene of the crash on foot.

On January 30, members of the United States Marshals Task Force apprehended both suspects near the 4100 block of Jackson Bluff Road without further incident.

Leon County Approves Supplemental Lobbying Contract

The Leon County Commission voted 4-3 to award a contract to the Southern Group for supplemental lobbying services for the 2025 State Legislative Session. The Commission decided to dismiss the staff recommendation related to the procurement and support the motion made by Commissioner Christian Caban which was seconded by Commissioner Bill Proctor.

The County utilizes con-

tract lobbying services at the state and federal levels to further the County’s legislative goals and in pursuit of appropriations for key local projects. The Capitol Alliance Group, Inc. has been under contract for state lobbying services since 2008.

During the October 22, 2024, Workshop on State and Federal Legislative Priorities, the Board provided direction to issue an RFP for supplemental lobbying services to support the County’s efforts in securing state appropriations during the 2025 State Legislative Session. On November 19, 2024, the Board ratified its actions taken at the Workshop and approved a budget amendment allocating $40,000 from the General Fund contingency account for the costs associated with contracting for additional lobbying services.

LCSO Arrests Chiles Student for Written Threats on Social Media

On Wednesday, January 22, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office received information that a 14-yearold student from Chiles

The thirteen-member Board of Trustees is composed of six members appointed by the Governor, five members appointed by the Florida Board of Governors, the Chair of the Faculty Senate and the President of the Student Body.

High School made a threat to “shoot up the school” via social media. The student was interviewed about the social media post and admitted to making the threat after frustration from a game he was playing. Following the investigation, the male student was taken into custody on Friday, January 24, and charged with Written or Electronic Threats to Conduct a Mass Shooting.

In a press release LCSO stated, “in coordination with Leon County Schools, treats all threats toward schools with the utmost seriousness. We remain vigilant in investigating any potential threat and ensuring the safety of our students and staff. Parents and guardians are encouraged to have open discussions with their children about the seriousness of making threats and the potential consequences.”

The release also noted that the FortifyFL app is available to anonymously report any suspicious activity related to Leon County Schools or call 850-922KIDS.

State

DeSantis Proposes $115.6B State Budget

By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida

TALLAHASSEE — Gov.

Ron DeSantis late Sunday proposed a $115.6 billion budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year that calls for increasing pay for state law-enforcement officers and firefighters, eliminating a commerciallease tax and holding a new sales-tax “holiday” on guns and ammunition.

The proposal is an initial step as lawmakers prepare to negotiate a final budget during the regular legislative session, which will start March 4. It also was released as DeSantis quarrels with House and Senate leaders

over an immigration bill that lawmakers passed during a special session last week.

The 2025-2026 fiscal year will start July 1.

The governor’s proposal includes cutting 741 government positions and setting a goal of paying down 50 percent of the state’s tax-supported debt by the 2027-2028 fiscal year.

The proposal calls for $118.3 million in pay increases for state law-enforcement officers and firefighters. Entry level law-enforcement officers would see pay pushed up 20 percent, while veteran law enforcement officers and state firefighters would receive 25 percent increases, according

to a summary of the proposal from the governor’s office.

The package also calls for $2.2 billion in tax cuts that mostly would come through the elimination over two years of a tax that businesses pay on commercial leases, a move long sought by business groups.

Under DeSantis’ proposal, the tax would go from 2 percent to 1 percent on Jan. 1, 2026, and then be crossed out a year later. The lease tax, imposed since 1969, went from 4.5 percent to 2 percent last year as part of a 2021 deal to require out-of-state retailers to collect sales taxes on purchases made by Floridians.

The governor’s proposal

also calls for the return of sales-tax holidays, allowing shoppers to avoid paying sales taxes on school supplies and clothes in August, on disaster supplies at the start and the peak of the hurricane season and on recreational purchases throughout July.

He also proposed a “Second Amendment Summer” sales-tax holiday between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July that would temporarily remove sales taxes on ammunition, firearms and related items. The new tax holiday would save shoppers an estimated $8 million, according to the governor’s office.

The budget proposal doesn’t seek tuition or fee increases for students at Florida colleges or universities, and would maintain funding for the Bright Futures Scholarship Program at $632 million. Per-student funding in the kindergarten through 12thgrade system would increase by $222, to $9,205.

In the environmental portion of the budget, DeSantis proposed $805 million for Everglades restoration projects. He also proposed such things as $3 million for removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades and constructing shooting and archery facilities in Liberty and Polk counties.

Lawmakers Seek Money Amid Belt-Tightening

By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida

Florida lawmakers have started filing what are expected to be hundreds of proposals seeking money for local projects and programs — but legislative leaders are cautioning not to expect as much spending as in the past few years.

As of Tuesday morning, House members had filed 40 funding proposals, while one had been filed in the Senate, according to legislative websites. Lawmakers will consider the proposals as they negotiate a budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year during the legislative session that will start March 4.

Since taking their positions in November, House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, and Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, have advised lawmakers about a need to slow spending. At least in part, that is because federal money that flooded into the state during the COVID-19 pandemic has dried up.

“It is far easier to spend money than to save it,” Perez said during an organization session in November.

Lawmakers each year try to get state money for local projects and programs — what are known in the Legislature as “member projects.” Spending on such projects and programs grew from $174 million in 2019 to $1.3 billion in 2024.

Last year, senators filed 2,695 requests for local funding that would have cost $7.3 billion. House members put forward 3,167 proposals that would have required $8.8 billion.

Sen. Tom Leek, an Ormond Beach Republican and former House budget chairman, warned people who attended a Putnam County legislative delegation meeting this month that member project funding could drop to about $500 million in the upcoming budget.

“During the COVID years, the federal government was just dumping money on the states,” Leek said during the meeting.

“Our choice was to either give that money back to the federal government, and have it go into a black hole, or to use that money for citizens of Putnam (County) and

U.S. Senate Confirms Florida’s Pam Bondi as U.S. Attorney General

By Ashley Murray Florida Phoenix

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate Tuesday night confirmed Florida prosecutor Pam Bondi as the attorney general of the United States under President Donald Trump. Senators voted 54-46 to install the former Florida attorney general at the top of the U.S. Justice Department, an agency Trump has in his crosshairs after federal prosecutions targeted his actions following his loss in the 2020 presidential election.

Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania voted in favor of Bondi’s confirmation.

Bondi easily gained the support of the Republican-led Senate Committee on the Judiciary, which put her on a glide path to confirmation. The panel split along party lines Wednesday to advance her to a full floor vote.

Bondi was sworn in to office on Wednesday morning in the Oval Office, by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Trump congratulated Bondi, calling her “unbelievably fair and unbelievably good,” according to a pool report.

Grassley Support

“I’m disappointed that none of my Democratic colleagues on the Judiciary Committee voted for Ms. Bondi, and I hope the full Senate takes a different approach,” Committee Chair Chuck Grassley of Iowa said on the floor Monday.

“If my colleagues won’t cross the aisle for this qualified nominee, they’ll show that they’re intent on opposing President Trump’s picks for purely partisan reasons,” Grassley said.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Tuesday that Americans have “lost faith” in the Justice Department.

“Pam Bondi has promised to get the department back to its core mission: prosecuting crime and protecting Americans from threats to their safety and their freedoms,” the South Dakota Republican said Tuesday afternoon on the floor, accusing the department of political bias under former President Joe Biden.

Democrats spoke out against Bondi ahead of the confirmation vote.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, a Rhode Island Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, said Tuesday that Bondi’s responses during her confirmation hearing were cause for “real concern.”

“She said a lot of the right things about independence of the department and rule of law. What I couldn’t get over was how things changed when she got to a topic that would have been sensitive to Donald Trump, something that would have gotten Donald Trump all twitchy,” Whitehouse said on the floor.

“She couldn’t say obvious things, things like,’ Did President Biden win the 2020 election?’ That’s an easy answer, ‘Yes, he did, sir or ma’am.’ Super simple. When she can’t say that, that’s a sign,” Whitehouse continued.

Floridians,” added Leek, who was elected to the Senate in November after serving in the House. “So, we chose to keep that money. … I think we’re going to see a return to pre-COVID numbers. So, you should expect the total legislative projects to be somewhere in the neighborhood of $500 million, maybe (it) gets to $750 million, but substantially less than it’s been in the past.”

Leek said local officials have a new funding avenue for some water-related projects, as a 2024 law designates money from a gambling deal with the Seminole Tribe of Florida to buying and maintaining land in a state wildlife corridor, removing invasive species and helping properties convert from using septic tanks to sewer systems. DeSantis vetoed about $950 million in spending from the fiscal 2024-2025 budget, which took effect July 1. That included more than $200 million in water projects.

“Just because a water project was vetoed last year doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen. It’s just a different path you’re going to

go forward,” Leek told the Putnam County officials. “It (the Seminole Tribe gambling money) relieves some pressure off of us. It provides a dedicated funding source. But it also relieves a little pressure off of you guys, because now you don’t have to come to the Legislature and fight for that money. You just go through the grant process.”

Lawmakers also have been advised that getting local matches could help with their requests for money from the Legislature.

As an example, Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, has filed a $995,000 request for money for the non-profit Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options Children’s Ability Center, which provides services to families raising children with developmental disabilities. The request said the center is in line for $3.395 million from local governments and $1.345 million from “other” sources. A similar proposal landed $475,000 in the budget for the current fiscal year.

Among other proposals already pitched for the 2025

session:

— Rep. Randy Maggard, RDade City, is seeking $19.72 million to help the St. Johns River Water Management District acquire property in Volusia County and $30.8 million for the Southwest Florida Water Management District to acquire a property in Pasco County.

— Rep. Susan Plasencia, ROrlando, is seeking $3 million for automotive-technician workforce apprenticeships involving electric vehicle repairs.

— Rep. Patt Maney, RShalimar, is seeking $1.5 million for Fort Walton Beach traffic improvements.

— Rep. John Snyder, RStuart, is seeking $250,000 for Juno Beach-based Loggerhead Marinelife Center for a water-treatment system to help sick and injured sea turtles.

DeSantis: ‘We’ll Land the Plane’ on Immigration

IMMIGRATION, From Front Page

Albritton and Perez have issued joint memos defending their plan and lashing out at DeSantis for overstepping his authority, and attacks became increasingly personal.

“The problem is that he (DeSantis) has two years left, and unfortunately he is trying to stay in a place of relevance. And our bill is, quite frankly, just stronger than his. And that’s unfortunate, because I look at him as a partner,” Perez said during an appearance on CBS News Miami’s “Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede” that aired Sunday.

Perez took aim at a proposal pushed by DeSantis that would allow the governor to transport undocumented immigrants from Florida to their home countries.

“The governor wants to be able to appoint the immigration czar, that’s how he quotes it. He wants to appoint some bureaucrat inside his office — not elected by the people — so he has all the power,” Perez said. “That’s what this is about. This is about Ron DeSantis wanting to be the deporter-in-chief, and the Legislature wanting that to be President Trump. We’ve solved for this problem through the eyes of President Trump. DeSantis wants everything for himself. That’s what’s happening here.”

But DeSantis on Monday downplayed the dispute, saying “I do think that you’re going to see the plane land” on the immigration issue.

“There’s always dissonance. There’s always people who want to throw some sand in the gears for all these other reasons,” the governor said.

The legislative plan includes boosting criminal penalties for undocumented immigrants, ending in-state tuition rates for undocumented-immigrant students and creating the chief immigration officer position within the Department

of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The bill also would lead to spending about $500 million, with much of the money going to local law-enforcement agencies, and would require the death penalty for undocumented immigrants who commit crimes such as firstdegree murder.

Republicans on both sides of the dispute tried to tie themselves to Trump — with the final version of the bill titled the “Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy (TRUMP) Act,” a moniker that drew DeSantis’ jibes.

The budget proposal DeSantis submitted to lawmakers late Sunday didn’t show any signs of backing away from the governor’s stance on the immigration front. The governor’s proposal is considered a starting point for lawmakers as they craft a fiscal 2025-2026 spending plan during the legislative session that will begin March 4.

DeSantis’ proposed budget would direct $505 million to the state Division of Emergency Management for immigration enforcement and earmark another $4.4 million to set up a “special immigration unit” within the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission “to immediately assist the federal administration’s enforcement of illegal immigration.”

DeSantis on Monday said Republicans should focus on “policy that makes a difference.”

“Are we doing what we told the voters we were going to do? And if you do that, you’re going to see everyone be happy, and then we can move on to the next set of issues. I think it was an aberration last week. I do think we’re going to be united on this issue, and then we can move forward,” he said.

President/Publisher: Kathy Stewart

Editor: Steve Stewart

Contributing Writers: Steve Stewart, Maddox Goodman, Samuel Schaefer, Kate Stewart

Social Media and Data Analysis: Robert Stewart

Tallahassee Reports is a project of Red Hills Journalism Foundation Inc. and publishes reports on local government, politics, consumer affairs, business and public policy. Red Hills Journalism Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The Tallahassee Reports print newspaper is published twice each month. For advertising information, you can visit tallahasseereports.com

The Annual Point in Time Count of the Unsheltered is Underway in Leon County

By Gina Jordan, WFSU News

The annual Point in Time Count of those who are unsheltered is underway in Leon County. Volunteers are assisting teams visiting areas where those who lack housing may be staying.

Based on last year's count, Leon County saw an overall 5 percent increase in homelessness. The number is much larger nationally.

Gina Jordan talked with Margie Menzel about her time spent with those working on the count.

GJ: Margie, the Point in Time Count continues this week, and a lot of groups have been out there doing this work. Tell us what they're doing.

MM: They're basically trying to find out as much as they can about why people are homeless and what their situation is, in hopes of helping. And I went with the HOST [Homeless Outreach Street Teams] deputies. They're from the Leon County Sheriff's Office, and they took me to an encampment. They had questions that they were surveying folks off their phone. And, you know, some of it was really specific about well, you know, ‘Were you in the military service?’ Some of it is, ‘Do you have a cognitive disorder? Are you on drugs or alcohol? Do you have HIV?’ And the people that they were asking seemed to know them. One of them even expected – ‘Hey, isn't it time for the Point in Time Count?’

GJ: Oh, wow. Okay, so they want to find out, are there veterans who are homeless? Are there families out there? And are drugs an issue? And they're counting, too. They're really trying to figure out how many people in our community are unhoused.

MM: Absolutely, and that's going to be going on through Friday of this week. One of the people that I spoke with is Dee Jenkins. He's an intern. He's studying social work, and he does

his internship at the Kearney Center, and so he was one of the volunteers who was basically looking for people downtown who are homeless and asking them what their situation is.

DEE JENKINS: Early in the morning, I walked around a lot downtown near the LeRoy Collins Public Library, and just that whole general area. There was, like, seven people, I think we got around that time and managed to sit down with, talk about, you know, what's their life like? What are they going through? What can we do for them, get them connected to resources and just get their information.

GJ: And we should say also that we have had reporters go out, you've gone out. We don't take pictures. We're not allowed to record while it's actually happening. But Dee was telling us about what happens when, when he's out there doing his thing. So, you have been following the HOST unit for the local Point in Time Count this week. Tell us about that particular group.

MM: So, that is from the Sheriff's Office. It started in June 2022. I went out with Paul Pacchioli, and he’s the same person that I went out with in June 2022. At that time, he took me to an encampment that he knew nobody was going to be in, just to see what an encampment looked like, basically. And yesterday, he was in a position to tell me more about what the HOST unit has accomplished and the trust they’ve been able to build with the people they’re trying to bring services to and ultimately house.

DEPUTY PAUL PACCHIOLI: They feel like nobody sees them. And I think that’s what helps outreach be so successful is because we’re having those conversations. We see them on the street corners, we go have those conversations. They are still human beings, and we're going to treat them that way. And we're going to have those conversations and see if we can help, along

with our service providers, and what they do to get these people to services that, you know, that they want or that can help them.

MM: One thing that's really important to say, Gina, is that, according to Paul, at the beginning of the operation of the HOST unit, people would run away from them, but now they have whole relationships, and it was very clear that Paul was familiar with the situations of the people he was talking with, and that they trusted him.

GJ: Yeah, that's great. Let's talk about the relationship between those who are unsheltered and the business community. So, we've heard a bit about this, especially recently. We had a fire. It happened at an encampment off Mahan Drive, and business owners in that area were not happy with police response to loiterers.

MM: They told one of our reporters that people had been defecating on the sidewalk next to their business. They had been going into the dumpster, which the businesspeople understood, and basically said, ‘Sure, you know, go ahead and get food. But do you have to strew it all over the parking lot?’

GJ: Right. Yeah. Well, we have a new state law now that bans people from sleeping in public spaces. Where are we with enforcement of that?

MM: Well, according to everyone I've talked with, locally, we're in good shape. I had an interview recently with Leon County Commissioner Rick Minor, and he agrees. And then Paul Pacchioli told me the same thing.

PP: I think one of the main things in that was the city and the county can't allow people to camp on, you know, city or county property. And the city and county haven't. Even since HOST has started, you know, if there's somebody, we go, we offer services, we educate them about they can't sleep on county property. And there's things

Many unhoused people prefer living in encampments rather than emergency shelters

like that. We try to get them some help or change the situation the best that we can in that moment. But yeah, we follow up with complaints from the county, and there's things like that.

GJ: So, one positive takeaway from last year's count nationally is that the number of unhoused veterans is declining. We have research from the federal government that indicates that is due to coordinated investments in affordable housing and services. So, veterans are benefiting, but others are doing worse. And it sounds like the whole system for responding to homelessness is just underfunded.

MM: Massively underfunded. The Federal ARPA funding that had been used for homelessness services here in Leon County, that's gone now. It was connected to the COVID-19 pandemic, and so it did have some very good uses, but they're gone. And now the county has been indicating to our nonprofits, 'Hey, you know, we're going to have to cut back on y'all so that we can spend more money on homelessness services.' There's just not enough money.

Florida House Bill Seeks to Curb Corporate Purchases of Single-Family Homes

By Caden DeLisa, The Capitolist

A House bill filed on Wednesday would limit corporations and investment firms from buying up singlefamily homes and converting them into rentals, giving local governments the authority to restrict investor-owned housing.

The Strengthening Home Ownership in Florida Act (HB 401), filed by Rep. Berny Jacques, seeks to protect homeownership opportunities by keeping more properties in the hands of individual buyers.

The measure allows counties and cities to zone land exclusively for owneroccupied homes, preventing large-scale rental conversions in certain areas. It additionally creates a new classification, “single-family hybrid housing,” which applies to homes primarily used as rentals and owned by corporations, investment groups, or related entities. Under the proposal, an individual or related entity cannot own more than

Uncertainty at USAID

Secretary of State Marco Rubio was named acting director of the US Agency for International Development, stepping in as the organization faced increasing calls for its closure by the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency.

The roughly $40B-per-year agency oversees the vast majority of US foreign aid, funding efforts ranging from economic development to humanitarian assistance. The organization, authorized and funded by Congress each year, was created in 1961 as a means to consolidate foreign aid under one roof. As of yesterday afternoon, reports suggested USAID would be folded into the State Department with an unspecified reduction in workforce while retaining its humanitarian mission.

Analysts say the move could face legal obstacles—while USAID has reporting and budgetary ties to the State Department, it was established by Congress and, therefore, may require an act of Congress to dissolve.

The move follows a weekend standoff between Musk aides and agency personnel,

three single-family properties in a county and still qualify for residential zoning.

“Evolving housing needs require adaptable policy frameworks that promote inclusivity and economic diversity within communities,” the bill reads. “Distinguishing between land use categories for owner occupied singlefamily residential use and hybrid housing use addresses the diverse needs and preferences of the residents of this state. There is currently no mechanism to ensure that rezoning land into uses for single-family residential use will provide for home ownership opportunities, necessitating legislative action to address this concern.”

Local governments would have broad authority to enforce these rules through zoning and land-use regulations. Under the bill’s purview, municipalities could prohibit hybrid housing in designated areas while still allowing it elsewhere. The law would not apply

to government-owned properties, ensuring that affordable housing projects are unaffected.

As of 2023, Florida’s homeownership rate stands at 67.3 percent, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Meanwhile, corporate investors have been steadily increasing their presence in the state’s housing market, with more than 117,000 single-family homes now owned by corporate entities, according to a 2024 report from Florida Trend.

The bill also includes exemptions for builders and developers, allowing them to construct and sell new homes without restrictions as long as the properties are unoccupied and intended for sale.

The issue is also being addressed at the national level. U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Dwight Evans (PA-03) introduced the Stop Predatory Investing Act in October 2024 to restrict tax breaks for

National News Briefs

who claimed DOGE staff did not have appropriate clearance to access classified documents.

Tariffs on Pause

President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on goods imported from Mexico and Canada are now paused for at least 30 days after the commander in chief struck last-minute border security deals with both countries. The tariffs—initially set to take effect today—would have ignited a North American trade war, with consequences potentially passed on to consumers.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau agreed to send approximately 10,000 troops each to their respective borders with the US as part of efforts to curb the flow of illicit drugs and illegal immigration. Trudeau also said he would carry out a previously announced $1.3B border plan, appoint a "fentanyl czar," and launch a joint strike force to tackle organized crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering. Negotiations between the US and its neighbors are expected to continue.

A 10% tariff on Chinese imports will still remain in play. Mexico, Canada, and China accounted for 42% of total US imports last year, or about $1T in goods.

Existing-Home Sales Ascended 2.2% in December

Existing-home sales climbed in December, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. Sales advanced in three major U.S. regions and slipped in the Midwest. Yearover-year, sales accelerated in all four regions. On an annual basis, existing-home sales (4.06 million) declined to the lowest level since 1995, while the median price reached a record high of $407,500 in 2024.

Total existing-home sales –completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – elevated 2.2% from November to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.24 million in December. Year-over-year, sales swelled 9.3% (up from 3.88 million in December 2023).

"Home sales in the final months of the year showed solid recovery despite elevated mortgage rates," said NAR

big corporate investors that buy up homes, often driving up local housing prices and rents. This legislation would prohibit an investor who acquires 50 or more single-family rental homes from deducting interest or depreciation on those properties. The bill restricts tax breaks for private equity and large investors that currently give them an advantage in the market for affordable single-family homes, and helps make homeownership a reality for more families across the country.

“With home prices reaching record highs, many Ohioans are struggling to afford homeownership and some are being priced out of the neighborhoods they’ve lived in all of their lives. It’s unfair for homeowners to have to compete with deep-pocketed investors who are adding to their real estate portfolios, meanwhile they drive up rents and reduce the housing supply while receiving generous tax breaks,” said Rep. Sykes.

Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. "Home sales during the winter are typically softer than the spring and summer, but momentum is rising with sales climbing year-over-year for three straight months. Consumers clearly understand the long-term benefits of homeownership. Job and wage gains, along with increased inventory, are positively impacting the market."

Total housing inventory registered at the end of December was 1.15 million units, down 13.5% from November but up 16.2% from one year ago (990,000). Unsold inventory sits at a 3.3-month supply at the current sales pace, down from 3.8 months in November but up from 3.1 months in December 2023.

The median existing-home price for all housing types in December was $404,400, up 6.0% from one year ago ($381,400). All four U.S. regions posted price increases.

"The median home price was elevated partly due to the upper-end market’s relative better performance," Yun added. “Sales rose by 35% from a year ago for homes priced above $1 million, while sales fell for homes priced under $250,000.”

Philadelphia Plane Crash

At least seven people died and 22 others were injured when a midsize medical transport plane crashed in a Philadelphia neighborhood shortly after takeoff on Friday, January 31. Officials categorized the incident as an accident.

The Mexico-registered Learjet 55—chartered by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance—took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport shortly after 6 pm local time, set to return 11-year-old Valentina Guzman Murillo to Mexico after four months of care at Shriners Children’s Hospital in the city. The craft was unresponsive to air traffic control and descended steeply less than a minute after departure, immediately killing Murillo, her mother, four crew members, and a car driver and leaving a five-block debris field. Workers identified the plane's black box 8 feet deep within the impact crater late Sunday. The incident occurred two days after a passenger plane and Army helicopter collided over the Potomac River in Washington, DC, claiming nearly 70 lives.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Saturday, February 8 1� a.m. - 12 p.m. Leon County Main

The Spring Seed Library Program offers 11 fruit and vegetable seed varieties that are free to check out.

NEWS & EVENTS

Protect Your Home or Business From Flooding

do not cover flood damage. Even if your residence or business is not required to purchase flood insurance, you should consider purchasing flood insurance as an important safeguard for your property.

Visit LeonCountyFL.gov/FloodProtection to learn more about your flood risk, how to protect your home or business from flooding, the benefits of flood insurance, and more.

Property Tax Exemptions

If you own and occupy property in Leon County, you may qualify for homestead or other property tax exemptions. March 1 is the filing deadline for each tax year. Eligibility is based on your permanent residence status as of January 1, and exemptions do not automatically transfer between properties. Do not miss your opportunity to save on your property taxes!

To learn more, visit leonpa.gov or contact the Leon County Property Appraiser at 850-606-6200.

Business News

Leon County Loses 485 Jobs, Workforce Shrinks in December

The latest employment report shows that the number of jobs in Leon County fell in December when compared to November. There were 157,699 people working in Leon County in December compared to November’s revised employment number of 158,184, a decline of 485 jobs.

The December unemployment rate came in at 3.2%, down from the 3.7% reported last month. This drop was due to a decline in the workforce.

There were 162,961 people in the workforce in

Dec-22Dec-23Dec-24Chg 23/24

December, down from 164,646 in November.

One year ago, the November 2023 unemployment rate was 3.2%.

Year Over Year Comparisons

The Leon County Jobs Report, provided below, shows the number of people working in November 2024 was 708 less than in November 2023. The November labor force – those looking for jobs – came in at 165,333 which was 438 more than the number reported one year ago.

The chart below shows the monthly level of jobs in Leon County over the last 37 months with a 12-month average trend line. The highlighted numbers relate to employment levels for the month of December back to 2021.

Tallahassee Airport Passenger Traffic Up 12.9% in 2024

Despite challenging circumstances related to air carriers, the Tallahassee International Airport reported a 12.9% growth in passenger traffic in 2024 when compared to 2023. There were 965,921 passengers in 2024, an increase of approximately 110,000 passengers over the 2023 count of 855,568.

This increase comes despite losing the service of JetBlue in 2024.

The latest information shows the December

December Passenger Traffic Report

2024 passenger traffic increased 12.7% when compared to traffic one year ago. The number of passengers were up 9,386 from the 73,891 reported during December 2023 to 83,277 in December 2024.

Relative to 2023, the Passenger Traffic Report shows year-over-year passenger counts in December were down 1.4% for American Airlines, up 11.1% for the Delta Group and up 209.5% for Silver Airways.

Service provider Jet Blue ended service in November.

The graph to the right shows the annualized number of passengers for the last 37-months. The highlighted numbers on the graph indicate the annual traffic during the month of November over the last four years.

The annual rate of passengers at TIA in December 2024 – 965,921 – is up 12.9% when compared to one year ago. The annualized num -

ber of passengers is calculated by summing the previous 12 months of traffic.

Prime Meridian Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

Prime Meridian Holding Company (OTCQX: PMHG), the parent bank holding company for Prime Meridian Bank, today announced unaudited financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. The Company reported net earnings of $1,774,000, or $0.54 per basic and diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $2,257,000, or $0.71 per basic and $0.70 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The Company reported net earnings of $3,705,000, or $1.13 per basic and $1.12 per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $4,758,000, or $1.49 per basic and $1.48 per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2023.

“We are positioning ourselves for the next chapter,” said Sammie D. Dixon, Jr., Vice Chairman, President, and CEO. “ We are coming off a good quarter number-wise. Loan and deposit balances improved, as did net mortgage banking revenue. We have a clean balance sheet heading into the second half of 2024. We are a tighter,leaner team that’s ready to put more points on the board.” Dixon, always one to promote

the Bank’s culture, is referring to management’s adoption of a backto-basics approach. “We have an exceptionally competent and confident team that cares about its clients and is dedicated to growing the Bank,” he said.

“For 16 years we have operated profitably in times of change. That’s largely due to our culture. Adapting to change has always been one of our strengths and is still very much the case,” he continued.

Headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, Prime Meridian Holding Company (OTCQX: PMHG) offers a broad range of banking services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Prime Meridian Bank, a Florida state-chartered non-member bank. Founded in 2008, the Bank now serves the Tallahassee and Lakeland/ Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA), including clients in North and Central Florida as well as South Georgia and South Alabama. The Bank currently has four Florida locations: two in Tallahassee, Florida, one in Crawfordville, Florida, and one in Lakeland, Florida. As of June 30, 2024, the Bank had 113 full-time equivalent employees.

By Robert Stewart

Florida High Boys Basketball Leads Leon County Rankings

The Florida High boys basketball team finished the regular season with an impressive record of 17-5 and are the top ranked team in Leon County. The Seminoles are coming off of an 88-55 win against Pine Forest on Jan 31. and hope to carry that momentum into the first District game against Suwannee on Feb. 5.

Rickards – the second ranked team – capped the regular season off with a 55-47 home win against Godby on Jan. 31. They will be looking to replicate this result as they play Godby in the 4A District 2 final on Feb. 7. Godby, coming in at third, ended their regular season with a record of 15-6 and proceeded to the District tourna-

ment where they beat Wakulla in the semi-finals 74-34. Although Godby lost their last game of the regular season to Rickards, the Cougars will get a chance at revenge as they play the Raiders in the District final on Feb. 7.

Boys Rankings

1. Florida High, 17-5, FL Rank: 22

2. Rickards, 15-9, FL Rank: 82

3. Godby, 16-6, FL Rank: 111 4. Leon, 17-6, FL Rank: 146 5. Lincoln, 16-7, FL Rank: 154

6. Maclay, 9-13, FL Rank: 298

7. Chiles, 12-13, FL Rank: 331

8. St. JPII, 8-13, FL Rank: 404

9. NFC, 8-14, FL Rank: 460

10. FAMU, 7-15, FL Rank: 613

11. CCS, 2-12, FL Rank: 808

Lincoln Alum Cayden Bevis Makes Impact on Division 1 Wrestling Team

By Robert Stewart

Lincoln Alum Cayden Bevis is a junior at Binghamton University wrestling in the 197-pound weight class. Binghamton’s wrestling team is a division 1 program included in the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA). The EIWA contains 12 total teams including notable colleges such as Army, Navy and Lehigh University.

On the season, Binghamton is 7-8 while matching up against some of the top wrestling teams in the country including Penn State (#1), Cornell (#9), Missouri (#16) and Illinois (#17). Although Binghamton lost to Missouri in a close match 19-15, Cayden Bevis won his bout against Jesse Cassatt by a 4-1 decision winning 3 points for the

FSU NEWS

Bearcats.

In conference play, Binghamton is 3-2 with Bevis winning bouts in the 197-weight class contributing points in all 3 conference wins by the Bearcats. Binghamton has four more matches left in the regular season before they compete in the EIWA championships on Mar. 7-8. Their next match is against Morgan State University on Feb. 7.

FSU’s Hamilton Submits Resignation Effective At

TALLAHASSEE – Florida State University men's basketball head coach Leonard Hamilton announced Monday that he is resigning as head coach effective at the end of the current season.

FSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Michael Alford announced that the University will immediately begin a national search for Hamilton's successor.

Hamilton is the winningest head coach in FSU history and the fifthwinningest head coach in the history of the Atlantic Coast Conference. The

Seminoles are 13-9 overall this season, including a 4-7 record in ACC play. As head coach at FSU, Hamilton has compiled an overall record of 434290 including a mark of 196-186 in ACC regular season games. He currently ranks 10th on the NCAA's list of winningest active Division I coaches. Hamilton has led Florida State to 16 postseason appearances and 12 20-win seasons.

"I am deeply thankful for the tremendous support of our fans, alumni, and everyone associated with Florida State throughout my time here," Hamilton said. "I am proud of the quality of the

While participating on the Lincoln wrestling team in high school, Bevis went 107-20 while setting the school record for takedowns in his high school career and a single season. Bevis is also a two-time regional champion, three-time state qualifier and Big Bend 2022 wrestler of the year.

End Of Season

young men that it was my privilege to lead, for their faith in this program and in their belief in the philosophy that we tried to instill in them over the years. I have been blessed beyond words for the opportunity and the experience we've had here.”

"Coach Hamilton's personal character and integrity, and his leadership, set a tremendous standard for all of FSU Athletics," Alford said. "Few people have been as important in building the positive reputation of Seminole Athletics. FSU's stature as one of the leading brands in college sports has been possible, in part, to his leadership of our

men's basketball program. He steadily developed a culture of excellence that reflects his personal values: commitment to academic success, competitive success, community service, leadership, and ongoing personal excellence."

"I'm excited for the future of men's basketball at Florida State," Alford said. "Thanks to Coach Hamilton's excellent stewardship and leadership, it has been proven that Florida State can be a contender in the ACC and nationally. I'm looking forward to continuing to build on what he has accomplished here as we identify the next leader of our program."

Florida High's boys basketball team are the top ranked team in Leon County. Pictured: Iean Allen. Photo credit: Robert Stewart

Four Leon County Teams Win Soccer District Titles

By Robert Stewart

Last week four district final soccer matches took place resulting in Maclay (girls and boys), Chiles (girls), and Florida High (boys) all claiming titles in their respected classification. 2A District 1

On Jan. 29, the Maclay boys soccer team (16-1-2) took on the Taylor County Bulldogs (10-8-3) in Tallahassee for the 2A District 1 final. Coming into the match not only seeded first in the district but also ranked 24th in the state by MaxPreps, Maclay was a heavy favorite. The Marauders proved this by dominating the Bulldogs on both sides of the ball for the full 40 minutes. Usually matches are 80 minutes but with Maclay up 8-0 at the end of the first half, the match concluded via the mercy rule.

On offense, the Marauders found goals from 5 different players including Santi Nunez (Jr.) and Tyson Willett (Jr.) with one, and Luke Daunt (Sr.), Zac Scovotto (Sr.), and Barnes Ray (Sr.) all with two. Six of these goals were scored with assists from Santi Nunez (2), Luke Daunt (2) and Jack Daunt (2) (Sr.). On the defensive side for Maclay, Gavin Slocum (Sr.) led the team with four steals.

The Maclay girls soccer team (113-2) was also playing for a district title on Jan. 30 against the Port St. Joe Tiger Sharks (10-12-1). It was a matchup between the one seed and the three seed which ultimately favored the Marauders. Maclay showed their dominance in the first half as their offense found the back of the net five times and their back line held tight to go into halftime up 5-0. Maclay outscored the Tiger Sharks in the second half 4-1 winning the match 9-1 and claiming the district title.

On offense, Maclay had five different players score at least one goal including Reagan Cummings (So.) and Gray Burelson (So.) with one, Claire Lawler (8th) and Mallory VanLeuvren (Fr.) with two, and Maggie Bragg (So.) leading the team with three. In addition to her goal, Gray Burelson led the team in assists with two. On the

defensive side, Maggie Bragg led the team in steals with six.

3A District 2

On Jan. 30 the Florida High Seminoles (12-3-3) played for a district title against North Bay Haven (5-10-1) in Tallahassee. The Seminoles were the one seed in the district tournament coming off of a convincing win against Rutherford (7-7-1) in the semifinals while North Bay Haven was seeded second.

During the first half of the match both teams looked somewhat even as they headed into halftime with a score of 1-1. During the second half, the Seminoles started connecting on a lot more opportunities and outscored North Bay Haven 3-0 in the second half resulting in a 4-1 win and a district title.

5A District 2

On Jan. 30 the Chiles girls soccer team hosted the Mosley Dolphins at Stan Goldstein field for the 5A district 2 final. This was a much-anticipated matchup for multiple reasons but mainly because both teams are ranked highly in the state of Florida. Chiles was the one seed ranked 18th in the state and Mosley was the two seed ranked 74th in the state.

Both teams started the game off very strong defensively but had trouble finding meaningful runs on the offensive side of the ball. When Mosley did get past the Timberwolves back line, they could not find a way to put the ball past Chiles’ keeper, Gracie Gerteisen (Fr.). Both teams headed into halftime empty handed at 0-0.

Chiles came out of halftime determined to score and it showed as there offense played much more aggressive than in the first half. After some well-timed crosses and favorable runs, the Timberwolves beat Mosley 3-0 claiming the district title.

Chiles players that scored goals included Cadence West (Sr.), Addison Kantor (Sr.) and Abbey Griffin (Fr.). Jada Bartusek (Jr.) and Kyndal Smith (Sr.) both had one assist. On the defensive side of the ball Kyndal Smith led the team in steals with a total of six.

Leon County High School Scoreboard

Recent Match Results

Chiles (15-2-0) 3 Vs. Mosley(16-3-2) 0, Jan. 30

FSUHS (11-4-3) 0 Vs. North Bay Haven (13-4-2) 1, Jan. 30

Maclay (11-3-2) 9 Vs. Port St. Joe (10-12-1) 1, Jan. 30

Chiles (15-2) 3 Vs. Orange Park (12-4-1) 0, Feb. 4

Leading Scorers Player, School, Goals

1. Maggie Bragg, Maclay ……………………………..…..13

2. Reagan Wolfe, Chiles …………………………..……..11

2. Gray Burleson, Maclay ………………………....…......11

4. Gabrielle Jeune, FSUHS ……………………………………8

5. Grace Toulon, Maclay ……………………………………7

5. Jordyn Wysocki, JPII ……………………………………7

5. Mallory VanLeuven, Maclay….………………………7

Boys Basketball

Recent Game Results

Luke Daunt, Maclay

Matias Pardi, JPII

Jake Veleber, CCS

Jack Daunt, Maclay

Will Fordham, CCS

Keenen Jeune, FSUHS

Rickards (15-9) 55 Vs. Godby (16-6) 47 , Jan. 31

Maclay (9-13) 76 Vs. Marianna (19-4) 70, Feb. 1

Lincoln (16-7) 60 Vs. Chiles (12-13) 46, Feb. 3

Godby (16-6) 74 Vs. Wakulla (4-16) 34, Feb. 3

Leading Scorers Player, School, Points

Isaiah Bundrage, Chiles ………………………………..409