Tallahassee
Leon County staff has submitted a status report regarding the curbside waste collection service provided by Waste Pro, Inc. which indicates continued customer service improvement.
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Six months into 2025, crime incident data shows that total crime incidents have declined by 36.8% when compared to incident data from January thru June in 2024.
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The United Way of the Big Bend has announced plans to support 63 programs in its eight-county service area.
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Tallahassee Reports has learned from several sources close to Mayor John Dailey that Dailey has decided to seek a third term.
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The latest information from the Tallahassee International Airport shows the May 2025 passenger traffic decreased 6.90% when compared to 2024.
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Tallahassee’s Real Talk 93.3 radio station is being sold to Jon Jopling, a Tallahassee resident.
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Leon County elected officials will consider the establishment of a Citizen Charter Review Committee.
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LCS FAST Testing Shows Improvement
By Steve Stewart
According to scores from the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) tests released on June 25 by the Florida Department of Education (FDOE), the number of Leon County students with a 202425 passing grade increased 3% for English Language Arts (ELA) (grades 3-10) and 3% for Mathematics (grades 3-8) when compared to 2023-2024. Leon County’s English Arts passing grades increased from 52% to 55%. The Mathematics passing scores increased from 54% to 57%. At the state level, FDOE
America Celebrates 249 Years of Independence
Court Urged to Keep Immigration Law on Hold
By Jim Saunders The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — The U.S. Supreme Court should reject a request by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier to at least temporarily allow enforcement of a new law targeting undocumented immigrants who enter the state, attorneys for plaintiffs challenging the law argued Wednesday.
Attorneys for the Florida Immigrant Coalition, the Farmworker Association of Florida and two individual plaintiffs filed a 41-page brief that said the Supreme Court should keep in place a preliminary injunction that has blocked the law.
Uthmeier on June 17 asked the Supreme Court for a stay of the preliminary injunction issued in April by U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams — a request that, if granted, would allow the law to be enforced while a potentially lengthy court battle plays out. A panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on June 6 rejected such a stay.
Williams ruled that the law (SB 4-C) was likely preempted by federal immigration authority. In Wednesday’s brief at the Supreme Court, attorneys for the plaintiffs focused heavily on the preemption issue and said other courts across the country have reached similar conclusions on issues related to entry of undocumented immigrants.
The brief, partially quoting a 2024
ruling in a Texas case, said “Congress has ‘established a comprehensive framework to identify who may enter, how they may enter, where they may enter, and what penalties apply for those who enter unlawfully.’”
“And SB 4-C conflicts with the intricate federal scheme at every turn: Congress has provided a range of tools and broad discretion to federal officials in order to balance a range of national interests, yet SB 4-C seeks to wrest control of one of those tools — criminal regulation of entry — from federal control and discretion, to be applied however Florida (and, presumably, any other state) sees fit,” the brief said.
But in asking the Supreme Court for a stay, lawyers in Uthmeier’s office said Florida has been “enjoined from enforcing its statute to the detriment of Florida’s citizens and the state’s sovereign prerogative to protect them from harm.”
“Illegal immigration continues to
Leon County Provides Update on Waste Pro Service
By Steve Stewart
Leon County staff has submitted a semiannual status report regarding the curbside waste collection service provided by Waste Pro, Inc. which indicates continued customer service improvement.
On March 21, 2023, the Board directed staff to prepare semi-annual status reports regarding Waste Pro’s performance under a new contract to ensure Waste Pro meets the expectations of the Agreement. The first status report was included in the Annual Sustainability Program Status Report on January 23, 2024; subsequent reports were provided at the July 9, 2024, and January 28, 2025, Board meetings.
The current status report indicates that during “the preceding 20 months of the curbside collection service contract, Waste Pro has demonstrated the ability to provide satisfactory service to the residents of Leon County.”
The report notes that since the October 1, 2023, commencement of services, Leon County’s enhanced contractual standards alongside operational improvements by Waste Pro have contributed to an overall successful delivery of service that has resulted in a decrease in liquidated damages from the previous contract.
The staff’s evaluation of Waste Pro service is based on a review of liquidated damage assessments and the volume and
From the fireworks at Tom Brown Park to the backyards across Leon County, neighbors celebrated the 249th birthday of the Unites States of America this past week. A country that began with a 1,038 word "unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America" signed by 56 people and presented to Congress on July 4, 1776. P7
City Seeks Applications for 2025 Neighborhood Awards
Applications for The City of Tallahassee's 2025 Neighborhood Awards Program are now open.
Neighbors and Neighborhoods will be recognized in the following 2025 Neighborhood Awards Program categories:
Outstanding Neighbor of the Year Award
Any resident who has facilitated improvement(s) in his/her neighborhood and/or any other neighborhood within the City of Tallahassee in the past year (2024) is eligible to be nominated. The Neighbor of the Year Award includes two categories:
Neighborhood Advocacy - This award recognizes a neighborhood leader or resident who has demonstrated strong advocacy and diligence in advancing policies, programs, projects and/or initiatives to improve the quality of life for a single neighborhood or entire community.
Neighborliness - This award recognizes a neighborhood leader or resident who embodies the spirit of neighborliness, taking care of others, providing neighborhood/community services and/or helping with efforts within or beyond their neighborhood that promotes community and unity.
Neighborhood of the Year Award
Any City of Tallahassee neighborhood/homeowners' association that facilitated improvement(s) in its community, actively engaged residents in community building and bonding activities and/or was involved in the civic aspect of the City in the past year (2024) is eligible to be nominated. The Neighborhood of the Year Award includes two categories:
Small Neighborhood - Neighborhoods with fewer than 200 homes
Large Neighborhood - Neighborhoods with more
than 200 homes
Best Neighborhood Programs Award
Any City of Tallahassee neighborhood/homeowners' association that facilitated and/or completed projects that improved their neighborhoods in the past year (2024) is eligible to be nominated. The focus is on the physical aspects of a neighborhood, social or cultural aspects of a neighborhood and/or communication outreach efforts to bring the neighborhood together.
The Best Neighborhood Programs Award is given in three categories:
Best Physical Improvements - This award category recognizes outstanding projects that enhance the physical aspects of a neighborhood (i.e., parks, lighting, litter control, traffic management, housing improvements, etc.).
Best Social Improvements - This award category recognizes outstanding projects that enhance the social or cultural aspects of a neighborhood (i.e., safety, youth and/or senior programs, programs that foster teamwork and connections, etc.).
Best Communication - This award category highlights excellence and creativity in neighborhoodoriented publications, communication and/or outreach activities. This award may also recognize neighborhood groups that are diligent about notifying residents, promoting their organization and/or communicating with members via printed material and/or social media.
For more than 40 years, the City has honored the work being done by neighborhood leaders and residents to further enhance and enrich their communities.
Recipients of the Neighborhood of the Year Award will receive an award sign to display in their respective neighborhoods. Previous winners will receive a sign blade that will be affixed to their existing Neighborhood of the Year sign. For the 2025 awards program, a cash prize of $500 will be provided to the winners of Neighborhood of the Year to fund a neighborhood program or project. Recipients of Neighbor of the Year and Best Neighborhood Programs awards will receive award plaques.
Neighborhoods located within the City limits are encouraged to apply and highlight their efforts undertaken in 2024 to bring about positive change. The application and more information about the categories are available online at Talgov.com/NeighborhoodAwards. If you need a hard copy, please contact the City's Neighborhood Affairs division at 850-891-8795. All entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025.
United Way of the Big Bend Announces Funding Priorities
The United Way of the Big Bend has announced plans to support 63 programs in its eight-county service area. The organization’s President and CEO Berneice Cox explained the process of deciding who will get funding is tough.
"It is a nine-month process with over 900 volunteer hours that went into it. These are the decisions that were made for the 2025-2027 allocation, so for the next 2 years these will be the funded program partners that will receive the United Way of the Big Bend dollars."
The dollars allocated total just under one-and-a-quarter million. That might seem substantial. But Cox said that number doesn’t seem so
big when you consider the need. She points to the latest ALICE report. ALICE stands for Asset-Limited-IncomeConstrained-Employed and measures the working poor in the community.
"The average in our 8-county region was 53% in ALICE. It's not going up if you look at the percentages for the 8 counties. We did have a couple of counties that went down maybe 1%. But we also saw counties that went up. And this latest ALICE report is not reflective of the hurricane disasters in Taylor, Madison and Jefferson (counties.) So I think that next report will be even more telling and probably an increase in the ALICE population."
There simply aren't enough resources to solve every problem, so Cox said the funding focuses on specific areas of need.
"We look at housing, education, early learning, health and mental health, skills development and the safety net. The calls to 211 (of the Big Bend,) which is the 911 of human services. And we also look at what's coming up there; what are they hearing are the needs?"
And what have the crisis assistance folks been hearing lately?
"Rental and utility assistance. That's the number one call they've been getting. The volunteers use that data as far as making their decisions.
Transportation is another need along with food insecurity. Domestic violence, unfortunately, has increased since COVID."
Cox said there's another issue at play. That's the uncertainty of what may happen, especially on the federal level, when it comes to support for human service agencies. She says it was gratifying, in the midst of what may or may not happen there, to hear this recently from a local United Way partner agency.
"You're dependable, you're reliable, we know that as long as we're meeting the metrics and outcomes that you request in our quarterly reports, every month we're going to have a reliable source of funding from United Way of the Big Bend and that matters now more than ever with what we face from the uncertainty."
Cox now hopes the community will step up as the organization launches its next fundraising campaign on August 27th at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.
Leon County Accepting Tourism Grant Applications For Special Events & Sports Events
The Leon County Division of Tourism (Visit Tallahassee) application for the 2025-2026 Special Events and Sport Events Grants is now open. Applications are due by Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 5 p.m. This opportunity represents the ongoing effort to promote tourism and provide financial support for events that have a history of, or show potential to, attract out-of-town tourists and generate overnight stays in Leon County.
Eligible event(s) must take place between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, and are required to comply with Florida Statutes Section 125.0104, for the utilization of Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funds. Event grant applications are evaluated based on the historical or potential ability to attract overnight tourists, how the event will elevate the destination and increase overall economic and community impact, demonstrate paid out-ofarea marketing activities, and include scheduled programming/activities during non-peak periods. Event funding
levels are determined by the anticipated number of hotel room nights/overnight lodging in Leon County generated by the event.
All grant applicants must attend one of three Grant Orientation workshops. An in-person workshop will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Leon County Office of Resource Stewardship (ORS) Gathering Room, located at 1907 South Monroe Street. Two additional workshops will be conducted via Teams on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 11 a.m. and on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 5 p.m. A recording of the July 8 workshop will be available on the Visit Tallahassee website. The workshops will include, overview of the online grant application portal, explanation of the statutory requirements of the funding, available funding and schedule of funding levels (based on room nights), peak visitor periods where events will not be considered for funding and grant review process and scoring criteria.
The Leon County Tourist Develop-
ment Council (TDC) Grant Review Committee will review and evaluate applications and submit recommendations to the TDC for approval in September.
Leon County Government Wins Awards
Leon County Government has earned seven prestigious Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo). This year's awards bring the County's total to an impressive 118 Achievement Awards received since 2013.
The NACo Achievement Award program honors outstanding county government programs and practices across the nation. The awarded programs and projects, ranging from historic preservation to county resiliency, reflect the County's dedication to enhancing the lives of its residents.
“These recognitions highlight the County’s commitment to excellence in public service,” said Leon County
This year, Leon County earned the following Achievement Awards for exceptional programs and services:
-TEAM Leon, in the category of Risk and Emergency Management -Sustainable Yard Debris Management Program, in the category of County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy, and Sustainability -Family Heir Property Support Program, in the category of Human Services -Lake Munson Action Plan, in the category of County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy, and Sustainability -Affordable Housing and Home Buyer Support Initiative, in the category of Community and Economic Development -Leading the Way for Family Day, in the category of Community and Economic Development -Leon County Website Relaunch, in the category of Civic Education and Public Information.
Commission Chairman Brian Welch.
Crime Incidents Down 36.8% in 2025, Residential Burglaries Spike in Northwest Neighborhood
By Steve Stewart
Six months into 2025, crime incident data published daily by the Tallahassee Police Department shows that total crime incidents have declined by 36.8% when compared to incident data from January thru June in 2024. The drop was driven by a 40.1% decline in property crime.
However, the data shows that residential burglaries approached 2024 levels due to increases reported in a couple of areas of town. For example, residential burglaries spiked in the NW area near High Road and Tharpe Street. During the first six months of 2024 there were five residential
burglaries in this area. So far this year, 16 residential burglaries have been reported.
The Numbers
The incident data -tabulated by TR – show that property crime incidents are down 38.7% and violent crime incidents are down 32.8% during the 6-month period.
Property crimes encompass burglar-
Conviction in Dan Markel's Murder Case Upheld by Court
An appeals court has upheld Katherine Magbanua’s convictions for her role in Dan Markel’s murder. Her attorneys claimed technical errors during her trial.
Markel was an FSU law professor who was shot at his Betton Hills home in 2014 in what prosecutors say was a murder-for-hire plot.
Magbanua was accused of being the go-between for the orchestrator and the hitmen. She is serving a life sentence for first first-degree mur-
der, conspiracy, and solicitation.Four people have been convicted so far in Markel’s murder, including his exbrother-in-law. Charlie Adelson was accused of ordering the murder, and he is also serving a life sentence.
Markel’s former mother-in-law, Donna Adelson, is set to go on trial in August on the same charges.
Markel was in a fierce custody battle with this his ex-wife Wendi Adelson when he was killed.
ies, thefts, and incidents of vandalism. Violent incidents include aggravated assaults, armed robberies, and physical altercations.
A look at specific crimes (see table below) reveals the decrease in property crime was driven by a 52.7% decrease in commercial burglaries and a 27.9% decrease in residential
burglaries. The Auto Burglary & Theft category – which accounts for approximately 55% of all property crimes –was down 40.1%. The violent crime data shows that robbery incidents were down 25.8%, while assault & battery incidents were down 31.9%.
Fatal Shootings
There have been 11 fatal shootings during the first six months of 2025, compared to 15 fatal shooting deaths in 2024 during the same period.
Sources: Mayor John Dailey to Seek Third Term
By Steve Stewart
Tallahassee Reports has learned from several sources close to Mayor John Dailey that Dailey has decided to seek a third term.
Dailey was first elected Tallahassee mayor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. The decision comes after most local politicos had concluded Dailey would not run again. This political vacuum opened the door for others with mayoral ambitions to step up.
For example, on April 6th, 2025, Tallahassee City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow appeared on The Sean Pittman Show and confirmed that he plans to run for Tallahassee mayor in the 2026.
Also, there was information indicating Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban would enter the race.
Other names bantered around included Bill Montford, Al Lawson, Allison Tant and Loranne Ausley.
However, it appears that many close
to Dailey think the political winds have changed since the last two election cycles and that Dailey will have the opportunity to run a positive campaign related to accomplishments that include a lower crime rate and a solid local economy. Will Dailey’s decision impact the ambitions of Matlow or Caban or any other possible candidate? Only time and a lot of polling will tell.
Tuesday and Thursday 12 Noon - 1 p.m.
Leon County to Consider 2026 Charter Review Process
By Steve Stewart
Leon County elected officials will receive an overview of the proposed charter review process and consider options and recommendations regarding the establishment of a Citizen Charter Review Committee (CCRC) by November 3, 2025.
The Leon County Charter requires that a Citizen Charter Review Committee (CCRC) be appointed by the Board every eight years at least 12 months before the general election to review the County’s Home Rule Charter and propose any amendments or revisions for placement on the general election ballot.
Elected officials will consider the following:
-Direct staff to prepare an agenda item for the Board’s September 16, 2025, meeting, for the appointment of a 14-member Citizen Char-
ter Review Committee (two appointments per Commissioner), and consideration of preliminary committee bylaws.
-Convene the Citizen Charter Review Committee on October 23, 2025, for a period of no more than 120 days, to review the Leon County Charter and propose recommended amendments or revisions to the Board of County Commissioners for placement on the 2026 general election ballot.
-Establish the meetings of the Citizen Charter Review Committee to occur biweekly to be broadcast on the County’s Comcast channel 16, the Leon County Florida Channel on Roku, the County’s Facebook page, YouTube channel, X, and the County’s website.
-Utilize County staff to provide support to the Citizen
Charter Review Committee.
-Provide Board direction on any specific issues for staff to bring back in an analysis and for the Board to determine if the issues should be addressed by the Citizen Charter Review Committee.
Since the Charter was adopted in 2002, the Board has appointed two CCRCs (2009 and 2017) to review the County’s Home Rule Charter and propose amendments or revisions for placement on the general election ballot.For the most recent CCRC in 2017 –2018, the Board appointed a 14-member committee (two appointments per Commissioner) which convened for three months, conducting six meetings and three public hearings, all of which were held in the Commission Chambers and broadcast online and via television.
During its meetings, the
CCRC considered 11 different issues provided by the Board, Constitutional Officers, Committee members and the public. Through a series of votes and three separate public hearings, the CCRC narrowed the list of issues to two items: A Proposal to Provide a Code of Ethics Requirement in the Leon County Charter and A Proposal to Modify the Hiring/ Firing Process for the County Attorney.
On February 27, 2018, the 2017 – 2018 Leon County CCRC Final Report was presented to and approved by the Board. On April 10, 2018, public hearings were held for both proposed amendments recommended by the CCRC. The Board voted to place the proposed amendment entitled “Proposal to Provide a Code of Ethics Requirement in the Leon County Charter” on the November 2018 General Election ballot.
For the other proposed amendment entitled “Proposal to Modify the Hiring/ Firing Process for the County Attorney,” an Ordinance was adopted at the April 10, 2018 meeting, to effectuate the hiring/firing process changes sought by the CCRC rather than placing the issue on the ballot.
Pursuant to the Leon County Charter, the next CCRC must be established by November 3, 2025, 12 months before the 2026 general election.
Leon County Provides Update on Waste Pro Customer Service
WASTE PRO, From Front Page
nature of customer calls.
The update states the amount of assessed damages has remained steady and at a manageable level, demonstrating that the operational improvements and stronger standards are contributing to an acceptable level of service. This is especially notable when compared to the previous contract. For example, the total liquidated damages in 2022 was more than
$304,000 and was reduced to $30,000 in 2024 under the higher contractual performance standards.
The report also highlights the fact that customer complaints have dramatically decreased in comparison to the prior contract. For example, the total number of customer complaints in 2022 was 4,602 compared to 578 in 2024. While performance is at a satisfactory level, County
staff remain proactive in monitoring service routes and responding immediately to any customer outreach to ensure the circumstance is resolved in accordance with contract standards.
The report cautions that “technology is not infallible—temporary connectivity issues can still result in service errors, particularly when compounded by staffing challenges like driver turn -
over.” The report states that driver performance remains a critical factor in delivering reliable service. To address this challenge, Waste Pro— which typically experiences higher turnover during the summer due to the physically demanding work in extreme heat—took proactive measures, including hosting a job fair at its Midway location, and collaborated with the County to shift route start
times an hour earlier, aiming to reduce heat-related strain on drivers and minimize the risk of service disruptions.
Waste Pro currently serves 32,125 residents in the unincorporated area and handles roughly 300,000 service transactions per month. The Agreement was awarded to Waste Pro on March 21, 2023, and will expire in September 2030.
LCS FAST Testing Shows Improvement
TESTING, From Front Page
reported 57% of students in grades 3-10 scored at or above grade level on the endof-year progress monitoring assessment in ELA in 2025, an increase of 4 percentage points from 2024. For the Mathematics test, 58% of students scored at or above grade level in Mathematics in 2025, an increase of 3 percentage points from 2024.
“I am proud of our students and teachers for their hard work during the past school year,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Today’s results affirm that
our first-in-the-nation statewide progress monitoring system is making a difference for our students. Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida will continue to provide the best opportunities for our students.”
“Florida is a national leader in education because we are not afraid to challenge the status quo, said Incoming Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas.
“Progress monitoring assessments are a prime example of how Florida has changed education for the better, and the scores are proof of our
successful approach.”
The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) was introduced in 2023 to monitor student progress with three exams administered throughout the school year for math and English: at the beginning to provide a baseline, at the end of the second nine weeks, and a final time at the end of the school year.
Scores by Schools
The Leon County results show wide variation among schools in the district. For example, for the ELA 5th grade scores, there were 18 schools
reporting passing percentages below the Leon County passing percentage of 54%. This included Oak Ridge Elementary School with 21% of the students passing the test.
There were thirteen schools that performed above the Leon County average with three schools reporting over 80% of students achieving a passing grade. Those schools included Killearn Lakes (81%), Hawks Rise (86%), and Florida State University School (82%).
For the Mathematics 5th grade test, 21 schools reported scores below the Leon
Local News Briefs
County passing percentage of 56%. Less than 30% of students at Fort Barden and Oak Ridge passed the test. There were 10 schools that surpassed the Leon County passing grade percentage with four schools scoring over 80%. These schools included Killearn Lakes (81%), Hawks Rise (84%), FAMUDRS (91%) and Roberts (94%). Complete results can be found on TallahasseeReports. com.
Tallahassee Wins Third All-America City Designation
Tallahassee was named an All-America City for the third time. The honor was announced, June 29, at the 2025 All-America City Conference in Denver.
The award came from the National Civic League, one of the oldest non-profit civic organizations focused on municipalities in the country.
This year’s recognitions were given to ten cities around America that are working to strengthen environmental sustainability. Tallahassee was recognized in part for its Clean Energy Plan, which aims for 100% net clean renewable energy by 2050.
The large Tallahassee delegation present in Denver to receive the award on Sunday began chanting "Heyyyyy, Tallahassee" when their city was called.
At the event, Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey thanked city staff, other commissioners, and attendees from other cities.
“It is very, very refreshing to spend an entire weekend with a group of citizens who
love their communities as much as we love our community, and this is what it's all about," he said.
Tallahassee also received an award for its social media presence.
After a Radio Career Spanning Half-a-Century, Tallahassee’s Joe Bullard Signs- Off
One of Tallahassee’s best-known live, on-air radio personalities has given his final sign-off. Joe Bullard had been on Capital City radio longer than just about anybody.
Bullard’s family released a statement which read, “While his departure was unplanned on his part and ultimately bittersweet for us all, we as a family have enough faith to know that God makes absolutely no mistakes, even in this. Joe will now have unlimited time to do what matters most to him, and that is to spend more time with his family and true friends.”
His last day at the WHBXFM radio station, owned by Cumulus Media, was June 17. Bullard worked with Cumulus Media since August 1997 before his
“unplanned” departure last month, his family said. At the station he held down the midday shift and served as the program director.
Bullard was often called "The Almighty." Not only for his broadcasting skill, but also because he's been around Tallahassee since the 1970s, doing an overnight shift at WTAL while going to classes at Florida A&M during the day.
Despite him parting ways from the radio station, his family said he still plans to be the voice of FAMU’s Marching 100, this year marking 50 years for him.
Saxon Street Death Investigation Ruled Homicide; Suspect Arrested
The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) has arrested 25-year-old Deric Young following a death investigation that was later ruled a homicide involving a one-year-old child.
On June 23, at approximately 9:15 a.m., first responders were dispatched to a residence in the 1700 block of Saxon Street in reference to a child who was not breathing. Life-saving measures were immedi-
ately attempted, but sadly, the child was pronounced deceased at a local hospital. Initially treated as a death investigation, detectives quickly uncovered signs of foul play. An autopsy revealed the child had suffered severe injuries, including multiple strikes to the head with a closed fist that ultimately caused the child's death. Based on these findings and additional evidence, TPD's Violent Crimes Unit took over the case. As the investigation evolved, detectives learned the child was left in the care of Young, the boyfriend of the woman hired to watch the child, the night before the incident occurred.
Detectives developed probable cause and arrested Young for murder and aggravated child abuse.
FAMU: “Historic Level of Funding” Florida A&M University’s president-elect, Marva Johnson, is celebrating what she calls “an historic level of funding” for FAMU in the state’s new budget. The spending plan
earmarks more than $65 million for the university. Johnson is elated that the amount is more than FAMU had requested.
“That’s nearly a $10 million increase over the original ask,” she said.
FAMU Board of Trustees Vice Chair Deveron Gibbons sees the funding as a nod of approval from the legislature for the university’s newly selected leader.
“Many of you know over the past few months we have taken on water and a lot of heat about our president-elect," he said. "But let me just say this: This is a new day for Rattler Nation.” Johnson says she's hopeful the university will be able to funnel some of that money to its faculty and staff.
“We’re hopeful we’ll be able to close the gap on some of the concerns we have about competitive compensation," she said. "We know that with the investment the state has made in FAMU, that gap will be closing as we look to implement some of this funding.”
State News
DeSantis Signs Budget, Vetoes $567M
By Tom Urban and Jim Saunders The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed what he said was a $117.4 billion budget for the fiscal year that will start Tuesday and issued $567 million in line-item vetoes, while saying the plan better prepares the state for potential economic downturns.
“I think what you see in the budget is an example of a very fiscally responsible state,” DeSantis said during a billsigning event at the Rohan Regional Recreation Center in The Villages.
?The budget includes $580 million to pay off state debt, and lawmakers approved a separate bill (HB 5017) that requires an annual $250 million repayment of state bonds.
“I can tell you that right now, I don’t know what’s going to happen over the next couple years. If I did I would start a hedge fund,” DeSantis said.
“But I think we have to be prepared that we could have a slowdown, that there could be hiccups,” he added.
Lawmakers passed the budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year on June 16 after disagree-
ments about spending and tax cuts led to extending the annual legislative session, which was scheduled to end May 2. The budget included a bottom line of $115.1 billion.
But DeSantis said that number does not include what is known in the Capitol as money in the “back of the bill.” That includes money carried over from previous years. When such money is included — and vetoes are factored in — DeSantis said the budget totals $117.4 billion.
DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez, RMiami, have clashed for months. Perez made a priority of trying to shrink the budget, and DeSantis made a point Monday of saying the? overall spending plan is “roughly” $10 million higher than his recommendations from early February.
The governor and speaker also battled about tax-cut plans, with DeSantis wanting to provide property-tax rebates to homeowners and Perez seeking to reduce the sales-tax rate. In the end, neither idea passed.
DeSantis used the appearance in The Villages to reaffirm his support for asking voters next year to pass a
constitutional amendment to reduce or eliminate taxes on homesteaded properties. But he cut $1 million from the budget that had been earmarked for the Legislature’s Office of Economic & Demographic Research to study a potential property-tax elimination.
“It’s kind of like a state version of, like, the Congressional Budget Office,” DeSantis said. “I’ve been very nonplussed by their analysis. So, I vetoed that because we don’t need to give a bureaucracy money to study this.”
The Legislature linked the budget to a proposed constitutional amendment (HJR 5019) that will ask voters in 2026 to increase the limit of a rainy-day reserve, known as the Budget Stabilization Fund, from 10 percent of general revenue collections to 25 percent. The Legislature also approved setting aside $750 million in each of the next two fiscal years in anticipation of the ballot measure passing. DeSantis vetoed $750 million of the funding.
That was in addition to the $567 million in line-item vetoes, which nixed money for dozens of projects and programs across the state.
As examples, DeSantis ve-
toed $4.44 million for public television stations; $2 million for repairs to the Brickell Key Bridge; $1.73 million for the South Florida AgriCenter and Emergency Shelter at the South Florida Fairgrounds; and $750,000 for the development of the Florida Museum of Black History.
One lawmaker hit hard by vetoes was Rep. Alex Andrade, a Pensacola Republican who chairs the House Health Care Budget Subcommittee, which spent weeks scrutinizing a foundation linked to First Lady Casey DeSantis’ signature economic-assistance program, Hope Florida.
DeSantis axed 15 projects in the Panhandle sponsored by Andrade, totaling $7.45 million.
Meanwhile, Sen. Tom Leek, R-Ormond Beach, thanked DeSantis for cutting $6.25 million that would have gone toward restoring North Florida’s Ocklawaha River.
Environmentalists have tried for decades to restore the river, which was dammed as part of an effort to create the long-abandoned CrossFlorida Barge Canal. But officials and businesspeople in areas such as Putnam County have contended that the reservoir, known for its fishing,
is an economic engine.
Leek, whose district includes Putnam County, said the funding, which was a priority of Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Sanford, would have “destroyed the Rodman Reservoir and quality of life in our surrounding communities.”
The budget includes 2 percent pay raises for most state employees, with state law enforcement officers and firefighters in line for additional 8 percent to 13 percent boosts. Meanwhile, the plan eliminates more than 1,000 vacant state government positions.
Per-student spending in the pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade system will increase from $8,987.67 to $9,130.41. The plan also includes $691.5 million for Everglades restoration, the same as in the current year; $675.2 million for water improvement projects; and $170 million for flood and sea-level grants.
The spending plan also directs $13.7 billion for the state transportation work program. That is down from $14.5 billion in the 2024-2025 fiscal year Money for Visit Florida, the state’s tourism arm, will remain at $80 million.
Court Urged to Keep Immigration Law on Hold
wreak havoc in the state while that law cannot be enforced,” the request said. “And without this (Supreme) Court’s intervention, Florida and its citizens will remain disabled from combatting the serious harms of illegal immigration for years as this litigation proceeds through the lower courts.”
The law, passed during a February special legislative session and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, created state crimes for undocumented immigrants who enter or re-enter Florida. Supporters said it was aimed at helping carry out President Donald Trump’s policies on preventing illegal immigration.
The plaintiffs filed the lawsuit on April 2 in federal court in South Florida, alleging, in part, that the law violates what
is known as the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution because immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility.
The lawsuit names as defendants Uthmeier and local state attorneys across Florida. Williams on April 4 issued a temporary restraining order to block enforcement of the law and extended the restraining order on April 18. Ultimately, she issued a longer-lasting preliminary injunction on April 29, saying the law was likely unconstitutional.
Among other things, Williams pointed to the law requiring that violators go to jail.
“First, it gives state officials authority to prosecute illegal entry or reentry in cases where federal actors may choose not to,” the judge wrote. “Even
if federal and state officials choose to commence parallel dual prosecutions under both laws, SB 4-C’s mandatory detention provision limits federal law enforcement discretion to recommend pre-trial release and obstructs federal courts’ ability to conduct proceedings requiring defendants’ presence. Relatedly, state officials are free to prosecute a charge under SB 4-C even while a federal immigration proceeding is underway, which may determine that the defendant may remain lawfully present under federal law.”
Uthmeier appealed the preliminary injunction to the Atlanta-based appeals court and unsuccessfully sought a stay while the appeal is pending. A panel of the appeals
10 New Florida Laws
By Jim Turner and Jim Saunders
The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — With Gov. Ron DeSantis signing a state budget and a flurry of other bills, the dust has settled on the 2025 legislative session. Here are 10 laws that took effect July 1, the start the 20252026 fiscal year:
BALLOT INITIATIVES: A law (HB 1205) that places additional restrictions on the ballot-initiative process largely took effect Tuesday. Groups backing proposed constitutional amendments are fighting the law in federal court.
BUDGET: DeSantis on Monday signed the budget (SB 2500), which he and legislative leaders said would help prepare the state in case of an economic downturn. DeSantis issued $567 million in line-item vetoes to the budget, which had a $115.1 billion bottom line when passed by the Legislature.
FLUORIDE: A wide-ranging bill (SB 700) about issues involving the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services bans the longstanding practice of local governments adding fluoride to water supplies.
GULF OF AMERICA: Following the lead of President Donald Trump, the Republican-controlled Legislature approved a measure (HB 575) changing dozens of state laws to use the name “Gulf of America” instead of “Gulf of Mexico.”
JUDGES: Lawmakers approved a
bill (SB 2508) that calls for adding 22 circuit-court judges and 15 county-court judges across the state, while also making changes at two appeals courts.
PUBLIC RECORDS: With lawmakers pointing to threats and harassment, a law (SB 268) will prevent release of the home addresses and telephone numbers of legislators, members of Congress and numerous other state and local elected officials.
SCHOOL START TIMES: Lawmakers passed a measure (SB 296) that backed away from a 2023 law that would have prevented high schools from starting earlier than 8:30 a.m. The 2023 law, which was designed to help teens get more sleep, was scheduled to take effect in 2026.
STATE PARKS: After a public outcry last year about a development proposal, a new law (HB 209) will prevent the construction of golf courses, resort-style lodges and sports facilities in state parks.
STUDENT CELL PHONES: Students will be prohibited from using cell phones throughout the school day in elementary and middle schools under a measure (HB 1105) that expands a restriction on using phones during instructional time.
TAX CUTS: Parts of a tax-cut package (HB 7031) took effect Tuesday, including sales-tax exemptions on hurricane-preparedness supplies and certain purchases related to outdoor activities. Other parts, including eliminating a commercial-lease tax, will take effect later.
court is scheduled to hear arguments in the underlying challenge to the preliminary injunction in October.
The case has been contentious, including a dispute between Uthmeier and Williams about whether the injunction should apply to law-enforcement officers across the state — a dispute that resulted in the judge finding Uthmeier in civil contempt.
Uthmeier argued the injunction should only apply to him and local state attorneys, the named defendants in the lawsuit. But Williams also applied it to police agencies across Florida, effectively ensuring the law is not enforced.
While Uthmeier wants the Supreme Court to issue a stay of the entire injunction, his
By Peter Schorsch FloridaPolitics.com
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a measure designed to protect one of Florida’s most sensitive natural areas from oil and gas exploration.
HB 1143, which passed the Legislature unanimously, prohibits drilling for oil or gas within a set boundary around designated national estuarine research reserves. The measure’s primary focus is protecting the Apalachicola River and Bay system, a critical ecological and economic resource for the Panhandle.
“This is about protecting a national treasure,” DeSantis said at the bill signing. “The Apalachicola basin is vital to the environment, to the economy, and to the way of life in this region. This bill ensures that no drilling will threaten this ecosystem.”
The bill codifies protections that were — partially — upheld in court. In April, an administrative law Judge ruled that the proposed exploratory drilling in the Apalachicola floodplain could not proceed, finding that it violated long-standing envi -
office’s request also raised the possibility of the court issuing a partial stay so that the injunction would not apply to law-enforcement officers.
But in the brief Wednesday, the plaintiffs’ attorneys wrote that allowing police to make arrests while prosecutions would be enjoined isn’t “logical.”
“(The) undisputed scope of the injunction bars anyone, anywhere, from prosecuting SB 4-C’s entry and reentry crimes,” the brief said. “Defendants contend that police agencies should nevertheless be allowed to arrest for crimes that cannot be charged — but that makes no sense and would violate the (U.S. Constitution’s) Fourth Amendment.”
ronmental safeguards, including the area’s designation as an “Outstanding Florida Water.” Following the ruling — and facing what some observers called an embarrassing legal defeat — the Department of Environmental Protection formally withdrew its preliminary intent to issue the drilling permit. But that decision applied only to the specific permit at issue and remained subject to appeal.
“North Florida has some of the most beautiful coastlines, springs and rivers,” said Republican Rep. Jason Shoaf, the bill sponsor. “These ecosystems are also incredibly fragile, and we must do everything we can to protect them. I’m not willing to risk the beauty of our region, our coastal economy or the health of our environment for the exploration of oil. Too much is at stake.”
“This was one of those rare issues where everyone came together,” said Sen. Corey Simon, a Republican whose district includes the region. “Nobody wants to see oil rigs in the middle of an estuarine preserve that’s the lifeblood of this area.”
HB 1143 took effect July 1.
President/Publisher: Kathy Stewart
Editor: Steve Stewart Contributing
The Declaration of Independence
In Congress, July 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.-That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide
Georgia
Button Gwinnett
Lyman Hall
George Walton
North Carolina
William Hooper
Joseph Hewes
John Penn
South Carolina
Edward Rutledge
Thomas Heyward, Jr.
Thomas Lynch, Jr.
Arthur Middleton
Happy B-Day America
July 4, 2025, marked 249 years since the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.
Founding Father and second President John Adams expected it would be celebrated on July 2—the day delegates voted to break from Great Britain—but the idea didn't catch on. Today, the Fourth of July is synonymous with fireworks and barbecues, though some celebrate in more peculiar ways.
Since July 4, 1776, the US has grown from 13 colonies with 2.5 million people to 50 states and 14 territories with over 342 million people connected by roughly 5,000 airports, 4 million miles of roads, 140,000 miles of train tracks, and 5.5 million miles of power lines.
The economy has prospered to nearly $30T. Public health advances have dwindled the child mortality rate to under 1%, and Americans live over three decades longer on average. Meanwhile, homegrown scientific achievements have delivered everything from the light bulb and modern flight to the internet and air conditioning. We’ve also sent over 300 citizen astronauts to space— the most of any country.
Since last Independence Day, an American infant was
new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to pre-
Massachusetts
John Hancock
Maryland
Samuel Chase
William Paca
Thomas Stone
Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia
George Wythe
Richard Henry Lee
Thomas Jefferson
Benjamin Harrison
Thomas Nelson, Jr.
Francis Lightfoot Lee Carter Braxton
vent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render
Pennsylvania
Robert Morris
Benjamin Rush
Benjamin Franklin
John Morton
George Clymer
James Smith
George Taylor
James Wilson
George Ross
Delaware
Caesar Rodney
George Read
Thomas McKean
New York
William Floyd
it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions. In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting
Philip Livingston
Francis Lewis
Lewis Morris
New Jersey
Richard Stockton
John Witherspoon
Francis Hopkinson
John Hart
Abraham Clark
New Hampshire
Josiah Bartlett
William Whipple
Massachusetts
Samuel Adams
John Adams
National News Briefs
successfully treated with a novel gene-editing technique, computers are becoming exponentially faster problem solvers, and the James Webb Telescope photographed its first new planet.
NAR Existing-Home Sales Report Shows 0.8% Increase in May
Existing-home sales rose 0.8% in May when compared to April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.03 million, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.
Year-over year sales were down 0.7% from the 4.06 million reported in May 2024. Sales elevated in the Northeast, Midwest and South, but retreated in the West. Yearover-year, sales progressed in the Northeast and Midwest but contracted in the South and West.
"The relatively subdued sales are largely due to persistently high mortgage rates. Lower interest rates will attract more buyers and sellers to the housing market," said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. "Increasing participation in the housing market will increase the mobility of the workforce and drive economic growth. If mortgage rates decrease in the second half of this year, expect home sales across the country to increase
due to strong income growth, healthy inventory, and a record-high number of jobs."
Court Allows Trump Administration to Send Group of Immigrants to ”Third Countries”
The Supreme Court cleared the way for the Trump administration to send a group of immigrants currently being held on a U.S. military base in the east African country of Djibouti to South Sudan. In a brief opinion, the justices made clear that their June 23 order, which paused an order by a federal judge in Massachusetts limiting the government’s ability to deport immigrants to countries that are not specifically identified in their removal orders, applies fully to the eight immigrants in U.S. custody in Djibouti.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor dissented, in an opinion that was joined by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. She argued that Thursday’s order “clarifies only one thing: Other litigants must follow the rules, but the administration has the Supreme Court on speed dial.”
The order came less than two weeks after the Supreme Court put on hold, at least for now, an April 18 order by U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy that prohibited the federal government from sending im-
in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
Robert Treat Paine
Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island
Stephen Hopkins William Ellery
Connecticut
Roger Sherman
Samuel Huntington
William Williams
Oliver Wolcott
New Hampshire
Matthew Thornton
migrants to “third countries” –that is, countries not explicitly listed in their removal orders –without first following a series of steps to help ensure that the immigrant would not be tortured if deported to those countries.
Planned Parenthood Ruling
The Supreme Court recently ruled that South Carolina can lawfully remove Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid program, barring patients from suing to protect their choice of healthcare provider. The 6-3 decision, split along ideological lines, found that while Medicaid guarantees access to any “qualified and willing” provider, federal law does not give patients the legal right to sue the state to enforce that provision.
The state excluded Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid program to prevent public funds from supporting organizations providing abortions. Planned Parenthood—which received more than $792M from government sources in 2023, about one-third of its revenue—offers a range of reproductive health services. The state argued any funding indirectly supports abortion, even if not used for those services. Medicaid covers about one in five Americans. Critics warn the ruling could reduce
access for low-income patients and encourage other states to follow suit.
Diddy's Split Verdict
Sean “Diddy” Combs was found guilty of two of five counts against him yesterday, capping his weekslong, highprofile sex crimes trial. The hip-hop mogul was acquitted of all sex trafficking and racketeering charges, which carried sentences of life in prison. He was convicted of two lesser counts of transportation to engage in prostitution: one involving an anonymous woman and another involving his ex-girlfriend, Casandra "Cassie" Ventura Fine. Combs faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing to come at a later date.
Thirty-four witnesses testified for the prosecution, including former partners, employees, and rapper Kid Cudi—who accused Combs of breaking into his home and firebombing his Porsche. At the center of the case were allegations Combs led a criminal enterprise, with prosecutors highlighting hundreds of Combs’ “freak off” parties, where he was accused of engaging in abuse and coercion. Combs maintains all encounters were consensual.
The Stories Behind the Names: Exploring Local History Using StoryMaps
SATURDAY, JULY 26, 11 A.M.-12 P.M.
Discover the people and places behind some of Tallahassee and Leon County’s most familiar names. Explore local history through maps, photos, and an interactive digital StoryMap that highlights the lasting contributions and community connections of our namesakes.
This program is free and open to the public. Refreshments provided.
Marcus Curtis is a GIS Specialist for Tallahassee-Leon County Geographic Information Systems (GIS). His work has supported the John G. Riley Center and Museum, the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, and the First Florida Capitol Building through award-winning StoryMaps.
LEARN MORE AT LeonCountyFL.gov/GetEngaged
All summer long, Leon County Government and Second Harvest of the Big Bend are proud to offer free healthy, packaged meals to kids and teens 18 and under at Leon County Public Library locations. No registration is required.
THE SCHEDULE AT LeonCountyLibrary.org/SummerBreakSpot
NEWS & EVENTS
Tourism Special Events & Sports Events Grant Cycle Now Open
Do you have an event in Leon County between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, that will attract out-of-town visitors? You may be eligible for funding through the 2025-2026 Leon County Division of Tourism (Visit Tallahassee) special events and sport events grants program. The application deadline is Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 5 p.m. Apply now at VisitTallahassee.com/Grants.
Leon County Public Notices Available Online
On July 11, 2023, the Leon County Board of County Commissioners adopted an Ordinance allowing the digital publication of certain advertisements and legal notices as allowed under Section 50.0311, Florida Statutes. The Leon County Public Notices website streamlines the public noticing process for Leon County Government and governmental partners to improve accessibility and ease of use while reducing government costs.
Residents and property owners within Leon County, Florida, may receive legally required advertisements and public notices from Leon County Government by first-class mail or email upon registering their name and mailing address or email address by email at PublicNotices@LeonCountyFL.gov or by phone at (850) 606-5300.
Citizens can view the County’s digital notices at LeonCountyFL.gov/PublicNotices.
Enjoy Summer Fun at All Leon County Public Library Locations
Join the Leon County Public Library throughout July for the Color Our World summer programs! Explore a vibrant summer filled with exciting games, crafts, scavenger hunts, animal visits,
Business News
May Airport Traffic Down 6.8%
The latest information from the Tallahassee International Airport shows the May 2025 passenger traffic decreased 6.90% when compared to traffic one year ago. The number of passengers was down 6,019 from the 87,762 reported during May 2024 to 81,743 in May 2025.
The calendar year-to-date comparison, January through May, shows passenger traffic is down 2.36% in 2025 when compared to 2024.
May Passenger Traffic Report
Relative to 2024, the Passenger Traffic Report shows year-over-year passenger counts in May were down 11.5% for American Airlines, up 12.9% for the Delta Group and up 52.9% for Silver Airways.
Jet Blue ended service in November 2024.
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 May over the last four years.
The annual rate of passengers at TIA in May 2025 – 954,812 – is up 4.75% when compared to one year ago (911,557). The annualized number of passengers is calculated by summing the previous 12 months of traffic.
Tallahassee’s Real Talk 93.3 Radio Station Gets Local Owner
Tallahassee’ Real Talk 93.3 radio station is being sold to Jon Jopling, the current President & CEO of Panama City based Magic Broadcasting. Jopling resides in Tallahassee.
Magic Broadcasting announced the sale of Tallahassee radio station WVFT, Real Talk 93.3 FM, to 923 Ventures, LLC, owned by Jon Jopling. Jopling, who has served as President and CEO of both Magic Broadcasting’s Panama City and Tallahassee stations since 2021.
The announcement notes that the “sale ensures that Real Talk 93.3 FM will remain Tallahassee’s only locally owned radio station, a distinction underscored by its long-standing dedication to providing authentic, community-focused content hosted by Tallahassee media staples like legendary sports talk host Jeff Cameron, award winning morning show host Greg Tish, and investigative reporter Steve Stewart.”
“As someone who has lived and worked in Tallahassee for over 23 years, I understand how important it is for our city to have trusted local
voices on the airwaves,” said Jopling.
“This transition isn’t just about ownership — it’s about strengthening our commitment to the people of Florida’s capital city. We’ll continue to focus on real news, real conversations, and real connections that matter to the people that live here — delivered by people who live here, too.”
With more than 45 hours of local content each week, WVFT has been a platform for entertaining and informative conversations from voices that reflect the diverse perspectives of Tallahassee residents since its founding.
Jopling said, the station will continue to expand its lineup of local hosts discussing local issues, civic matters, and community events — ensuring listeners stay informed and engaged.
“We’ve had a lot of success at 93.3, and we are thankful for the continued support of all of our incredible listeners, fans, and advertisers. Or as we like to call them, our family. I’ve been privileged to be in charge of the station, but now, as the owner, I know our family will only get better.”
Reports indicate that Tallahassee MSA taxable sales were up 3.7% in April ($610.1M) when compared to May ($588.1M). The April annual rate was reported as $6.68 billion, up 2.2% over the annual rate reported one year ago. Taxable sales data is often used to measure economic activity.
The table above lists the most re
cent single family home sales in the Killearn Acres neighborhood. The sales information is from the Leon County Property Appraiser.
Killearn Acres is located just north of Killearn Estates in NE Tallahassee. The neighborhood is known for it's streets being named after Thoroughbred race horses.
The table above list 15 recent transactions with sale prices ranging from a low of $275,000 to a high of $359,900. The average sales price for these transactions was calculated to be $324,820
Reviewing another popular measure of home value, the dollar per
square foot ($/SqFt) shows a range starting with a low of 192.4 $/SqFt to a high of 279.2 $/SqFt. The average $/SqFt was calculated to be 228.3 $/SqFt. Current homes listed for sale in Killearn Acres range from $285,000 to $549,000. For more information on real estate sales in Leon county and overall economic conditions, visit TallahasseeReports.com.
By Robert Stewart
Tallahassee’s Prostyle Volleyball
Academy (PSVA) 17 & under indoor volleyball team finished second in the USA Volleyball 2025 Girls' Junior National Championship Tournament.
The tournament was held at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas from June 25 to July 3, 2025. The event featured over 1,000 teams in various divisions for the 14-17 age groups. The 17 & under age group featured 381 teams in six divisions.
Tallahassee qualified in the 17 & under Liberty Division which featured 24 teams. Tallahassee entered the tournament seeded 16th but was able to finish first in their six-team pool with a record of 4-1, ahead of the #2 & #8 seeded teams.
After three consecutive two set victories in the playoff round (best of three set format) Tallahassee qualified for the Gold bracket which featured four teams with national rankings between 70-100.
Tallahassee advanced to the finals with a 3-set victory over a club from Atlanta, 25-22, 23-25, & 15-11 and
then fell in the finals to a club from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 25-20, 2515.
The team was coached by Kaitlin Jahn, the Chiles High School indoor coach.
Jahn told TR, “I am so proud of our players. We have played a very competitive schedule all season and trained to perform at the highest level. Prostyle volleyball club has supported and put us in position to compete with some of the biggest clubs in the country. Our players were never underestimated, although Tallahassee is a smaller town compared to others we played against. Our players were well prepared to battle with the best and I’m so honored to lead them to the podium.”
Prostyle Volleyball Academy (PSVA) has been fielding teams in the Tallahassee area since 2013. Gokhan Yilmaz, the head coach at Florida A&M University since 2018, is the club’s executive director.
The All-Tournament Team featured three players from the Tallahassee team (pictured below). They included Eva Goodson, Natalie Gibson, and Lindsay Smith.
First Tee – Tallahassee recently announced the award of $300,000 in state appropriations to support and expand its youth development initiatives across the Big Bend region.
The press release noted the “milestone investment was made possible through the steadfast leadership of Representative Allison Tant and Senator Corey Simon, and with the approval of Governor Ron DeSantis.”
“We are deeply grateful to Representative Tant, Senator Simon, and Governor DeSantis for their unwavering commitment to the young people in our community,” said Chuck Urban, President of First Tee –Tallahassee. “This funding allows us to broaden our reach and provide more children with access to life-changing programs that teach confidence, character, and resilience through the game of golf.” The secured funding specifically
enables First Tee – Tallahassee to expand its mission to serve more children with special needs—ensuring that every child, regardless of ability and adversity, has the opportunity to grow through the game and gain skills that last a lifetime.
“Thanks to this support, more kids across our region—including those with unique challenges—will have the chance to develop lifelong tools for success,” added Urban. “We’re not just teaching golf—we’re helping shape the next generation of leaders.”
First Tee – Tallahassee is a nonprofit that uses golf as a platform to teach young people essential life skills, character, and leadership. Since launching in 2022, First Tee has already made a measurable impact— serving hundreds of youths annually throughout Leon and surrounding counties.
Back Row: Riley Knipple (Palm Beach State) , Whitley Harvey, Kinsley
Timmons (Valdosta State), Lindsay Smith (Embry Riddle), Jorja Williams, Kaitlin Jahn. Front Row:Eva Goodson (Appalachian State), Jessica Campbell, Madison Joyner, Natalie Gibson