Tallahassee
Tallahassee Reports
The Reports
Elected officials from Leon County and City government discuss ICE agreements and TMH governance issues during a town hall style forum hosted by the Village Square and WFSU.
Page 1
The Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency (IA) is scheduled to address a proposal to fund air service financial incentives in the amount of $670,000 annually beginning in 2026.
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Tallahassee’s two major hospitals recently received grades in the Hospital Safety Grade report released by The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization.
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Four months into 2025, crime incident data published daily by TPD shows that total crime incidents have declined by 37.2%.
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Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo recently announced that he has left the Democratic Party and registered as a voter with no party affiliation.
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The latest jobs report shows the Leon County March unemployment rate was unchanged from February at 3.8%.
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Avery McKnight Appointed FAMU General Counsel
By Steve Stewart
Florida A&M University
(FAMU) recently announced the appointment of Avery D. McKnight as vice president of Legal Affairs and general counsel, effective May 12, 2025. The alumnus brings with him more than three decades of legal experience, much of it dedicated to the service of higher education and public institutions across the state of Florida.
“Avery McKnight is no stranger to Florida A&M University, having served four permanent presidents and
Air Service Incentives Land at Airport
By Steve Stewart
The Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency (IA) is scheduled to address a proposal to fund air service financial incentives at the Board's next budget workshop.
The proposed Blueprint 2026 budget includes a new economic development funding request of $670,000 per year from the Incentives, Grants and Programs master project.
The funding would be allocated for TLH air service development incentives and related air service capacity-related improvements. The cost of the program would be $3,350,000 over the five-year planning period and $10 million over the life of the Blueprint 2020 sales tax.
The proposal comes after public criticism of high fares and the loss of JetBlue service at the Tallahassee airport.
The agenda item notes that typically “project funding requests are presented to the Blueprint IA Board as separate agenda items for consideration. However, due to the time-sensitive nature of this project, the Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) is requesting that consideration of this funding proposal be included as part of the Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget and 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan.”
The expedited approach will allow the staff to incorporate the proposed project
into the budget for the first budget public hearing on August 28, 2025.
A consultant hired by the Tallahassee projects the incentive program would enhance, expand and improve air service in Tallahassee. Also, an analysis indicates the return on investment (ROI) would be approximately $1.1 billion in economic impact, with a corresponding 1,158 jobs created.
Lawmakers to Return to Hammer Out Budget
By Jim Turner, Tom Urban and Dara Kam The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — House and Senate leaders said late Friday they had reached agreement on a “framework” for a budget deal that would include $2.8 billion in tax cuts, with lawmakers expected to return to the Capitol during the week of May 12 to negotiate details.
House Speaker Daniel Perez, RMiami, and Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, made the announcement on the final scheduled night of a contentious 60-day legislative session. Lawmakers had to approve an extension of the session because they did not finish the budget.
“I know the extension of session presents difficulties and challenges for you and your families,” Perez told House members. “I apologize for this delay. But I believe it is better to do it right than to do it fast.”
Perez said the budget for the 20252026 fiscal year, which will start July 1, will total less than Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposed $115.6 billion spending plan, though he did not give an exact amount. He also said the tax-cut package will include his priority of reducing the state’s 6 percent sales-tax rate.
“We have a responsibility to safeguard taxpayer dollars and improve accountability, transparency, and oversight of government spending,”
The agenda item notes that according to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, community-sponsored funding unlocks additional incentives for the airport, such as Minimum Revenue Guarantees (MRGs), when recruiting new air service. The agenda states that an “MRG is a financial risk-mitigation tool used by most communities and airports to attract
Albritton said to senators.
During the extended session, lawmakers will consider only the budget and related bills. That means a wide range of other bills died Friday night after not passing during the 60 days. The House adjourned at 10:23 p.m., with the Senate following nine minutes later.
Lawmakers, who will not be in Tallahassee next week, need to pass a budget before the start of the fiscal year. Also, DeSantis has line-item veto power before the budget takes effect.
The House and Senate were at odds for weeks about the budget and tax cuts, as leaders held talks behind the scenes to try to work out differences. The House and Senate passed budget proposals last month with a more than $4 billion gap. The House’s proposal totaled $112.95 billion, while the Senate’s weighed in at $117.36 billion.
The House proposed a tax package (HB 7033) totaling about $5 billion,
By WFSU News
Leon County and Tallahassee elected officials don’t like the state’s requirement that forces them to enter into agreements between their local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration enforcement, but they say their hands are tied.
The elected officials made those comments during the Our Town panel discussion Thursday hosted by the Village Square and WFSU.
The Tallahassee Police Department and Leon County Sheriff's office have already entered into 287 (g) agreements with ICE. Those agreements were the focus of a dozen or so protestors outside of WFSU Public Media where the panel discussion was held.
When asked about the agreements, City Commissioner Curtis Richardson said city staff entered them because of requirements
Commissioner Christian Caban Delivers 2025 TSC Commencement Address
Leon County Vice Chairman and District 2
Commissioner Christian Caban recently returned to his alma mater, Tallahassee State College (TSC), to serve as the keynote speaker for the college’s 2025 commencement ceremony. Addressing a packed auditorium of graduates, families, and esteemed faculty, Commissioner Caban delivered an inspiring message rooted in willpower, bravery, and the power of relationships.
An alumnus of Tallahassee State College, Commissioner Caban reminded graduates that their background does not define them, emphasizing that “your will over skill” is what truly shapes success.
Drawing from his own experiences, he encouraged students to take risks, build meaningful relationships, and focus on becoming the best versions of themselves. In a world full of distractions, he challenged them to fall in love with the process of growth.
“When I was in col-
lege, I had to skip my own graduation just to make rent,” said Commissioner Caban.
“Standing before the Tallahassee State College Class of 2025 as their commencement speaker was a fullcircle moment I’ll never forget.”
In the closing comments, Commissioner Caban left graduates with a powerful charge: be bold, be brave, and be kind. He urged them to take the first step – even when no one’s watching – and to bet on themselves. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, encouraging them to keep showing up and to treat every role with purpose. Caban also spoke to the quiet strength of
kindness, reminding graduates to lead with integrity, even when it’s inconvenient.
“Boldness, bravery, and kindness,” he said, “carried me from the front door to a seat at the table – and they’ll carry you, too.” With a hopeful sendoff, Commissioner Caban challenged the Class of 2025 to take what they’ve built and create something meaningful. “Stay grounded. Stay hungry. And keep showing up.”
The commencement ceremony celebrated the achievements of more than 500 graduates, marking a significant milestone for Tallahassee State College and the broader Tallahassee community.
Downtown Concert Series Returns to Cascades Park for the Tenth Year
The Downtown Concert Series will return to the Adderley Amphitheater in Cascades Park for its tenth year of bringing free live music to the Tallahassee community. These events have always served as a way to activate the downtown area while showcasing the incredible musical talent Tallahassee and the region have to offer.
The 2025 Lineup: May 17 – Revival with Special Guests, June 28 – The Lee Boys with Kason Sellers Band, July 19 – Randall Bramblett Band with Kanise August 23 – The Retrograde with Peak Dive. Each concert runs from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and is free to the public and open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, chairs, friends, and drinks. A variety of local food trucks will be on-site offering delicious options for purchase.
According to Elias Mathes, CEO of the Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority (TDIA), “We started this series 10 years ago with the goal of having a small event to bring a few hundred people together during the peak of the summer. We are so proud that these concerts now draw several thousand attendees that help to activate downtown and support local businesses. We could not be more excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the series, and we greatly appreciate the continued support from the community.”
The TDIA press release notes that “The Downtown Concert Se-
ries has become a summer tradition, fostering community engagement and showcasing the vibrant music scene in Tallahassee. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, it’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday evening with friends and family.” The Downtown Concert Series is made possible by the generous support of Visit Tallahassee, City of Tallahassee, Hotel Indigo, Adams Radio Group, and other local sponsors. Anyone interested in sponsorship opportunities at the events should contact the TDIA for more information: elias. mathes@talgov.co
HCA Florida Capital Hospital Announces New CEO
HCA Florida Capital Hospital recently announced the appointment of Dale Neely as chief executive officer. This is a return to Tallahassee for Neely, who served for five years as chief operating officer at HCA Florida Capital Hospital from 2007-2012.
In his new role, Neely will oversee the 288-bed, full-service acute care hospital, outpatient centers and affiliated freestanding emergency rooms: HCA Florida Southwood Emergency, HCA Florida Lake Jackson Emergency, and HCA Florida Gadsden Emergency.
“Dale brings more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience and a proven track record in driving operational excellence and quality,” said Brian Cook, president, HCA Healthcare – North Florida Division. “A dedicated leader who has served in several key roles across HCA Healthcare, Dale’s expertise will be invalu-
able in advancing innovation in patient care. His return “back home” to Tallahassee will help ensure we continue to deliver the very best care possible at HCA Florida Capital Hospital.”
Neely joins HCA Florida Capital Hospital from Memorial Satilla Health, part of HCA Healthcare’s South Atlantic Division, where he has served as CEO since 2023. Under Neely’s leadership, the hospital underwent strong
growth and an increase in employee engagement and patient satisfaction.
Neely also served as the CEO of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Tallahassee from 2012 – 2023. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing a $20 million expansion of the facility, growth in inpatient volume, and the expansion of the medical staff. Neely also placed a strong emphasis on employee engagement and
as a result, the hospital was ranked in the top 10 companywide.
Neely served as the chief operating officer (COO), ethics and compliance officer, and chief staffing officer at HCA Florida Capital Hospital from 2007-2012. During his tenure, he successfully oversaw growth and development of a wide range of services, including bariatric services, cardiovascular services, imaging services, and rehabilitation services.
Prior to service at HCA Florida Capital Hospital, Neely held leadership roles at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, Georgia, and Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome, Georgia, where he provided oversight to numerous service lines, launched an ethics and compliance program, and was involved in strategic growth initiatives across multiple facilities. He holds a Master of Business
Administration from Vanderbilt University and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Tennessee.
“It is an honor to have been chosen to lead and to return to HCA Florida Capital Hospital and its exceptional care team,” said Neely. “We have exciting and important work ahead. I have a deep affection for Tallahassee and the community and we will continue to elevate the standard of excellence in healthcare for the Big Bend Region and beyond.”
Maclay Juniors Host Sexual Assault Awareness Panel with Legal Experts
In a powerful effort to educate and empower their peers, Maclay School juniors Claire Smith and Blair Bayliss organized a sexual assault awareness panel on April 24, drawing a packed audience of upper school students and faculty. The event featured an esteemed lineup of speakers including State Attorney Jack Campbell, Chief Assistant State Attorney Georgia Cappleman, and Chief Investiga-
tor Jason Newlin. Together, they offered insight into the legal realities of sexual assault, its alarming prevalence—especially among college-aged students—and strategies for prevention and safety.
“As students preparing to enter college, we wanted to bring awareness to an issue that impacts so many lives,” said Claire Smith. “This conversation is long overdue.”
Blair Bayliss added,
“We hope that by hearing from these professionals, our classmates understand both the seriousness of the issue and the importance of speaking up.”
Smith and Bayliss were encouraged by the strong turnout, especially since participation was completely optional—a sign, they said, of their peers’ genuine interest in the topic and willingness to engage. The panel addressed key statistics, real-
life case experiences, consent, bystander intervention, and the legal consequences surrounding sexual assault. The speakers encouraged students to be proactive, informed, and supportive of survivors.
Maclay School commended Claire and Blair for their leadership and commitment to promoting awareness and change in the community.
Godfrey Smith AWARD
RANDY LASHUA
Randy Lashua has been named recipient of the prestigious Godfrey Smith Award, the highest honor a Capital City Associate can receive. A trusted leader and valued colleague, Randy has served Capital City Bank with distinction for nearly two decades.
As our chief retail officer, Randy sets the standard for excellence in every Capital City Banking Office, ensuring that the principles that have always defined our Company – strong relationships, exceptional client service and a steadfast commitment to doing the right thing – remain at the heart of our work.
Grounded in faith and guided by genuine care for others, Randy leads with integrity, loyalty and a deep sense of purpose. His example affirms the values that defined Godfrey Smith and continues to strengthen our culture and community.
C ongratulations , Randy !
www.ccbg.com
The event featured speakers including State Attorney Jack Campbell, Chief Assistant State Attorney Georgia Cappleman, and Chief Investigator Jason Newlin.
By Steve Stewart
Crime Continues Trending Down, Auto Related Incidents Up in April
Four months into 2025, crime incident data published daily by the Tallahassee Police Department shows that total crime incidents have declined by 37.2% when compared to incident data from January thru April in 2024. The drop was driven by a 40.6% decline in property crime.
However, auto thefts and auto burglaries increased dramatically –approximately 30% – in April when compared to monthly incidents reported from January thru March, Despite the increase, the incident
categories remain down year-to-date when compared to 2024.
The Numbers
The incident data -tabulated by TR – show that property crime incidents are down 40.6% and violent crime incidents are down 30.1% during the 4-month period.
Property crimes encompass burglar-
LCSO Releases Details Related to Dog Shooting
By Staff
On Monday, LCSO released the details related to the arrest of an individual for firing shots at a dog that allegedly bit the shooters child.
The incident took place on Saturday afternoon in the Glen at Golden Eagle, a Northeast Leon County neighborhood.
The press release stated that, “upon arrival, deputies made contact with the dog’s owner, who reported that their pet had run out of the house unsupervised and approached the suspect’s daughter. The suspect, John Pender, then discharged a firearm at the dog.
The pet owners secured the dog inside their vehicle at their residence. Pender then opened the door of the vehicle and fired one more shot, striking the dog.”
LCSO arrested John Pender for Armed Burglary of a Conveyance, Aggravated Animal Cruelty, and Child Abuse (causing mental distress). The arrest happened after Pender pursued the dog – after the encounter with his daughter and entered dog owners’ property where the shooting took place.
The LCSO release noted that the at this time the shooters daughter did not “appear to” suffer any injuries.
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 59.3 decrease in commercial burglaries and a 38.5%
decrease in residential burglaries. The Auto Burglary & Theft category –which accounts for approximately 55% of all property crimes – was down 36.8%.
The violent crime data shows that robbery incidents were down 28.9%, while assault & battery incidents were down 30.7%.
Fatal Shootings
Fatal shootings in 2025 are down when compared to 2024. During the first four months of 2024 there were 11 fatal shootings compared to 8 fatal shootings during the same 4-month period in 2025.
FSUPD Officers Receive Governor’s Medal of Heroism
By Staff
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently presented members of the Florida State University Police Department with the Governor’s Medal of Heroism in honor of their bravery during the campus shooting that took place at the Student Union earlier this month.
FSUPD officers quickly responded to the April 17 shooting, neutralizing the threat in just over two minutes.
“I am immensely proud of the men and women of FSUPD,” FSUPD Chief Jason Trumbower said. “We are honored and humbled that Gov. DeSantis acknowledged our courageous officers today. This recognition is entirely about them.”
Picture Caption: FSUPD Chief Jason Trumbower receives the Governor’s Medal of Heroism from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday, April 25, 2025. (Office of the Governor)
Tuesday and Thursday 12 Noon
TMH, HCA Florida Capital Receive Grades from Industry Groups
By Maddox Goodman
Tallahassee’s two major hospitals recently received grades in the Hospital Safety Grade report released by The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization reporting on quality, safety and transparency in the U.S. healthcare.
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) and HCA Florida Capital Hospital both received a “B” grade in the spring 2025 ratings report.
Leapfrog assigns letter grades to hospitals across the country based on 22 national performance measures related to errors, injuries, safety processes and infections. These grades provide a benchmark for patients and families seeking transparent information about hospital safety.
Grades are updated twice annually and are calculated using publicly reported and self-submitted data through an annual hospital survey.
The group’s mission is to “trigger giant leaps forward in the safety, quality and affordability of U.S. health care by using transparency to support
informed health care decisions and promote high-value care.”
TMH’s B grade is a significant achievement given the fact the hospital has not received a grade higher than a C in the survey since 2015.
“This improved rating more accurately reflects the care we provide and helps convey to the public what we have known to be true,” said Jana Iezzi-Tumblin, Vice President & Chief Improvement and Analytics Officer at TMH. “We’re proud of the grade but prouder of the hard work and commitment made by our team every day, every shift, every patient.”
“This recognition belongs to every team member at TMH who plays a role in caring for our patients,” said Mark O’Bryant, President & CEO of TMH. “We know our community depends on us for high-quality care, and we are committed to continuing our progress and achieving the highest safety standards.”
HCA Florida Capital Hospital’s B grade follows three years of A and B grades from the Leapfrog survey.
HCA Florida Healthcare Receives
2025 Patient Safety Excellence Award
The HCA Florida Healthcare statewide network recently announced 34 of its hospitals received the 2025 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ by Healthgrades, this includes Tallahassee’s HCA Florida Capital Hospital. Healthgrades is a leading web site Americans use when searching for a hospital or doctor.
To determine the top-performing hospitals for patient safety, Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted complication and mortality rates for approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide. The annual study found that patients treated in hospitals that received the 2025 Patient Safety Excellence Award have a significantly lower chance of experiencing one of the leading safety
indicators, such as falls prevention or hospital-acquired infections. “As 2025 Patient Safety Excellence Award recipients, HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals consistently puts the well-being of their patients and staff at the forefront, setting a high standard for patient safety nationwide,” said Debra Gradick, MD FACEP, senior physician consultant at Healthgrades. “We commend the statewide network for providing consistently exceptional care while preventing serious injuries, giving patients their best chance of a seamless recovery.”
Air Service Incentives Land at Airport
AIRPORT, From Front Page
new air service. It guarantees an airline a minimum revenue amount for a new route over a defined term, not to exceed 24 months. If the actual revenue falls short, the MRG fund covers the difference, up to the predetermined cap. This support helps mitigate earlystage financial uncertainty and encourages airlines to enter markets they might otherwise overlook.
It is important to note that an MRG is not a subsidy, but it is an effective, highly regulated risk-mitigation tool that has become an expected incentive in the airline industry.”
If approved, the Tallahassee International Airport will provide all necessary technical support to establish and maintain the requirements for the incentive program per FAA regulations. The Airport will be responsible for and manage all correlated capac-
ity enhancements required for establishing, maintaining and improving all new carriers, routes and services such as gate, screening, baggage and signage improvements. In addition, the Airport will manage all FAA required notices as well as marketing per FAA guidelines. The FAA will not allow the “community sponsored” funding to be comingled with airport funding for MRGs. As such, the City of Tallahassee will be required to administer the contracts for each MRG.
Incentives are Working in Daytona, After Jet Blue Exit Air service incentives have a hit and miss record. In some locations the approach works for a few years and then fails. In other areas, the approach works as planned and a community benefits – see Sanford, Florida.
Leon County School Board Meeting Briefs: April 22, 2025
By Steve Stewart
Provided below are the news briefs from the April 22, 2025, Leon County School Board meeting. Items Considered by the Board
Item 19.01: The Board voted unanimously to advertise amendments to Policy 0169.1 – Public Participation at Board Meetings, for a public hearing and adoption on June 17, 2025. The amendments require -in part – that individuals desiring to provide public input must complete a public input form with their name and identify the proposition or matter on which the individual desires to speak, each individual speaker shall be allotted up to a total of three (3) minutes, Individuals who have filled out the Board’s public input form may not delegate their allotted time to speak to other individuals, and individuals may not utilize any demonstrative aids when providing public input.
Item 19.02: The Board voted unanimously to advertise amendments to Policy 8651 – BoardOwned Vehicles, for a public hearing and adoption on June 17, 2025. The policy notes that the School Board recognizes the benefits of operating the most functional, fuel-efficient, and least environmentally harmful fleet in a fiscally responsible manner, taking into consideration vehicle procurement and operational costs. To implement this policy, a needs analysis shall be conducted when a new or replacement vehicle is requested.
Item 19.03: The Board voted unanimously to approve a settlement related to a school bus accident. A Leon County school bus collided with a vehicle driven by Ruthie Flanders on April 5, 2022. The accident occurred at the intersection of Jackson Bluff
Two years ago, the Volusia County Council voted 4 to 2 to approve Daytona Beach International Airport officials' request to create a $1 million "minimum revenue guarantee" to lure Avelo Airlines to provide air service. According to a study commissioned by the airport, new service provided by Avelo could boost the local economy by more than $11 million a year.
A recent report indicates the incentives are working.
After the County Council approved its incentives, Avelo immediately announced plans to introduce twice-weekly nonstop service to two destinations: New Haven, Connecticut, and Wilmington, Delaware/Philadelphia beginning June 2023. This past summer, Avelo Airlines announced plans to add twice-weekly nonstop flights to a third destination:
and Ausley Road. The plaintiff was taken from the accident by an ambulance. The plaintiff subsequently received medical treatment by orthopedic physicians. Ms. Flanders has filed a lawsuit alleging that the LCSB driver was negligent causing the accident. The parties have agreed to resolve this matter for $62,500 with no admission of fault. Approval of the settlement will resolve all claims related to this incident and settle case #2025 CA 000009.
Item 19.04: The Board voted unanimously to approve out of county travel for School Board Member Laurie Lawson Cox to attend the FSBA School Finance Workshop. Board policy requires that all out of county travel be approved in advance by the school board.
Information Update
Item 20.02: Renaissance Academy Charter School Updates. Chairman of the Board of the Renaissance Charter School, Inc. and the owner and operator of Renaissance Academy, a charter school in Leon County, has notified the Superintendent that they are suspending operations at Renaissance Academy, effective at the end of the FY25 school year. Their current enrollment is 220 students.
Renaissance Academy opened in 2012 under the name, Governors Charter Academy. They changed the school’s name in July 2023 from Governors Charter Academy, to Renaissance Academy. The school has served students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade.
The Charter Office will be following a Closure Action Plan to effectively ensure proper charter school closure and is monitoring student enrollment to ensure all students displaced from the school are enrolled in an educational setting.
Hartford, Connecticut, beginning Nov. 8. In addition, another ultra low-cost carrier, Breeze Airways, in August 2024 announced plans to begin service in the coming months to four destinations: Hartford; Providence, Rhode Island; Westchester County (White Plains), New York; and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.
On May 7, Breeze Airways announced the addition of a flight between Daytona Beach International Airport and Akron-Canton Airport in Ohio, which is about 50 miles from Cleveland.
However, the current positive situation in Daytona emerged out of a previous bad experience with incentives.
In January 2016 JetBlue began offering once-daily nonstop flights from Daytona to New York City. It gave Daytona airport a much-needed
boost in both passenger traffic as well as optimism.
The airline decided to give Daytona a try thanks in part to a $2.3 million incentive package. It included a twoyear commitment by dozens of Volusia County businesses to purchase tickets on JetBlue flights as part of a "travel bank."
Despite decent "passenger load" numbers JetBlue pulled the plug on its Daytona BeachNew York service after just three years.
However, the Volusia County Council, when considering the most recent use of air service incentives, attributed the Jet Blue decision to pull out of Daytona as a systemwide pullback from multiple airports, not a failure in the air service incentive approach.
County Introduces Students to Skilled
Workforce Opportunities
By Staff
On April 25, Leon County Government and the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Opportunity connected more than 1,000 high school students to local skilled workforce opportunities at the 10th Annual Leon Works Expo. Students from Leon, Wakulla, Gadsden, Jefferson, Calhoun, Madison, and Taylor counties explored high-demand career paths and engaged directly with nearly 80 employers in the areas of health, business and information technology, creative, trade and more.
“The Leon Works Expo gives students a front-row seat to some of the fastestgrowing and most rewarding careers in our region,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch. “Whether it’s in healthcare, information technology, public safety, or the skilled trades, these careers offer real opportunities for success, financial security, and long-term growth.”
Held at the FSU Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, the Expo transformed the venue into an immersive career readiness experience, focused on bridging the skilled workforce gap of the future. Students participated in interactive exhibits, attended breakout sessions hosted by CareerSource Capital Region, and experienced real-world demonstrations in industries, such as aviation, construction, and emergency medical services.
“Our goal with the Leon Works Expo is simple: open doors,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Not every path to success runs through a fouryear college. This event shows students the many ways they can find meaningful work and build a future, right here in our community.”
By 2032, more than 38,000 jobs that require education beyond high school but not a four-year degree with average wages of more than $22 per hour will be available in Leon County and the surrounding region. These positions are vital to the region’s economic future, and Leon Works builds on the County’s continued efforts to define their own success.
“The Leon Works Expo helps redefine how students and families think about career success,” said Keith Bowers, Director of the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality. “These are not just jobs. They are meaningful careers that are vital to our community and economy. We’re proud to be part of an effort that inspires students and equips them with the tools to pursue these opportunities.”
Since its inception in 2015, the Leon Works Expo has played a major role in developing the region’s future workforce, connecting more than 8,000 high school students with more than 600 local employers, academic institutions, and workforce development organizations.
State News
Michigan Leader Sole Pick for UF President
By Jim Saunders
The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — Santa Ono, who has led the University of Michigan since 2022, is the sole finalist to become president of the University of Florida, UF announced Sunday.
A presidential-search committee recommended that the UF Board of Trustees approve Ono after a search that began last year following the abrupt resignation of former President Ben Sasse. Kent Fuchs, a former UF president, has served as interim president.
“Throughout an extensive and thorough process, we sought a leader who could match UF’s extraordinary momentum, understand its role as the flagship university of one of the most dynamic states in the country and inspire our community to reach even greater heights,” Rahul Patel, a UF trustee and chairman of the search committee, said in a prepared statement Sunday. “Dr. Ono’s proven record of academic excellence,
innovation and collaborative leadership at world-class institutions made him our unanimous choice.”
Ono, who has a doctorate in experimental medicine from McGill University in Canada, served as president of the University of Cincinnati and the University of British Columbia before becoming president of the University of Michigan.
Ono is scheduled to visit the Gainesville campus Tuesday for forums with students, faculty members and administrators, according to Sunday’s announcement. If approved by the UF Board of Trustees, his selection would need confirmation from the state university system’s Board of Governors.
Sasse, a former U.S. senator from Nebraska, served less than two years as president before announcing last summer he would step down because of his wife’s health.
Subsequent reporting by the Independent Florida Alligator student newspaper raised questions about issues such as
spending on travel and highlevel employees who did not live in Florida. Sasse denied inappropriate spending.
Sunday’s announcement came after the Florida House this spring unsuccessfully sought to revamp laws about college and university presidential searches, including trying to repeal a 2022 law that provided exemptions to public-records and publicmeetings laws for information about most candidates for presidencies. Under the law, only information about finalists for the positions is released.
The House proposal died Friday when the Senate did not take it up before lawmakers finished most business of this year’s legislative session.
The UF announcement Sunday said the search committee “was responsible for designing the search criteria, identifying and vetting a broad pool of qualified candidates, and recommending finalists to the Board of Trustees.” It did not provide information about other
Lawmakers Turn Off Student Cell Phones
By Jim Saunders The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — Florida
lawmakers late Friday approved barring students in elementary and middle schools from using cell phones during the school day — and testing the idea in high schools.
Current law prevents students from using cell phones during instructional time, but the change would expand that prohibition to throughout the school day in elementary and middle schools. Rep. Demi Busatta, a Coral Gables Republican who spearheaded the proposal, described it as “bell to bell.”
The cell-phone change was included in a broader education bill (HB 1105) that passed in the final hours of the last scheduled night of this year’s legislative session. Lawmakers, however, did not finish a budget and are expected to return to the Capitol during the week of May 12 to negotiate a spending plan.
While the bill would prohibit cell phone use throughout the day in elementary and middle schools, it would keep
the current law about instructional time for high schools. But it also would create a pilot program in six counties that would prevent cell phone use in high schools during the entire school day.
Sen. Danny Burgess, a Zephyrhills Republican who led efforts to pass the bill in the Senate, said lawmakers were taking a hybrid approach and cited a “different dynamic” in high schools than in lower grades.
The pilot would be in two small counties, two mediumsized counties and two large counties selected by the Department of Education.
Rep. Ashley Gantt, DMiami, raised concerns about how a ban would affect students who take part in such things as field trips during the school day.
“If there’s a field trip that’s out of town and they go to some event and it’s out of town, (and) the kids don’t have their cell phones, parents won’t have the ability (to reach them),” Gantt said.
But Busatta pushed back against such arguments.
“Just like we did it when we were in school and we
didn’t have phones and we didn’t have smart phones, our parents were able to get a hold of us when they needed to,” she said. “They would call the front desk, you go to the front desk, you make a call from the front office.”
The House voted 85-14 to pass the bill, with the Senate following in a 26-5 vote. The bill is ready to go to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The bill also included changes that would help charter schools. For instance, it would require that charter schools get a cut if school districts receive sales-tax money through what is known as a local-government infrastructure surtax. Charter schools would receive proportionate shares based on school enrollment.
Also, the bill would make it easier to convert traditional public schools to charter schools. Currently, such conversions must receive support from a majority of parents and a majority of teachers. The bill would remove the requirement for teacher support.
Pizzo Exits Party, Leadership Post
By Dara Kam and Jim Turner
The News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — In a stunning move less than a week before the scheduled end of the legislative session, Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo announced Thursday that he has left the Democratic Party and registered as a voter with no party affiliation.
Pizzo, who was quickly replaced as minority leader by Sen. Lori Berman, announced his move late Thursday afternoon on the Senate floor before the chamber adjourned for the weekend.
“Here’s the issue. The Democrat Party in Florida is dead. There are good people that can resuscitate it. But they don’t want it to be me,” Pizzo, who became minority leader after the November elections, said.
Pizzo, of Sunny Isles Beach, has been an outspoken critic of Democratic Party leaders as Republicans have dominated state politics. The GOP holds a large voter-registration edge, every statewide office in Florida and supermajorities in the Senate and House.
Pizzo had been viewed widely as a centrist since his election to the Senate in 2018 and
had been speculated as a potential 2026 Democratic gubernatorial candidate.
An emotional Pizzo said Thursday he had submitted a form to change his voter registration to no party affiliation, or NPA.
“Our constituents are craving political leaders, not partisan hacks,” Pizzo said, crediting independent voters with boosting him into office. “I think stripping myself of the title of a party designation allows me to run free and clear, clean and transparent and help many, many more.”
Pizzo’s defection is the latest legislative loss for Democrats. Two House members — Susan Valdés of Tampa and Hillary Cassel of Dania Beach — switched to the Republican Party following the November elections. Democrats now hold 10 of 40 seats in the Senate; two seats are vacant.
candidates. Members of the search committee were announced in October. The university system has seen heavy turnover in presidents in recent years. Former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner was selected in February to become president of Florida Atlantic University, while former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez was named interim president of Florida International University.
Lawmakers to Return to Hammer Out Budget
with cuts largely stemming from a plan to permanently reduce the state’s sales-tax rate from 6 percent to 5.25 percent.
The Senate proposed a $1.83 billion tax-cut package (SB 7034) that included eliminating sales taxes on clothing and shoes that cost $75 or less.
Sen. Don Gaetz, a Niceville Republican who was Senate president during the 2013 and 2014 sessions, said this isn’t the first time lawmakers have disagreed on the budget.
“Our obligation is to agree on a budget before the end of the fiscal year,” Gaetz said earlier Friday. “My hope is that, in the intervening time between now and the time we come back, that there would be folks from the Senate and folks from the House who would lock themselves in a windowless room with warm beer and cold pizza and come up with a solution.”
Other sessions have had acrimonious endings, such as a 2011 standoff involving then-House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Orlando, and then-Senate President Mike Haridopolos, RMelbourne.
Sen. Gayle Harrell, a Stuart Republican in her 23rd year in the Legislature, has seen sessions deteriorate in the final hours, but noted Friday “this is not a typical end of session.”
“I’ve been through other tense sessions, you know. I remember the Haridopolos-Dean Cannon days. I remember the Johnny Byrd days,” Harrell said, referring to former House Speaker Johnny Byrd, a Plant City Republican who clashed with other lawmakers. “So there’s been other tense sessions. This one is probably the most tense in the last week that I’ve seen.”
Rep. Ashley Gantt, D-Miami, called the process “extremely frustrating,” but said “it’s part of what I signed up for.”
“It is part of my philosophy to not have expectations up here,” Gantt said.
Lawmakers have had a combative year, which started with DeSantis squaring off with the House and Senate leaders over carrying out President Donald Trump’s efforts to crack down on illegal immigration.
While agreements on immigration issues were reached at the end of three special sessions, DeSantis and Perez have remained at odds, including over a House investigation into a foundation linked to First Lady Casey DeSantis’ signature economic-assistance program, Hope Florida. DeSantis has traveled the state to attack the probe and legislative proposals that sought to limit his powers.
House and Senate budget leaders struggled to reach agreement on “allocations” — overall dollar amounts for different areas of spending — needed to begin formal budget conference negotiations. Albritton indicated Friday night that talks about the allocations would continue next week.
Albritton in recent weeks pointed to “philosophical differences” with the House, as he expressed concerns about approving recurring tax cuts amid unsettled national economic forecasts. He raised the possibility that deep cuts could force lawmakers to address financial shortfalls in future years.
Perez accused the Senate of supporting “pathological overspending” while arguing lawmakers should cut taxes to curb spending.
While making an appearance Wednesday at a Fruitland Park school, DeSantis placed blame on the House, saying, “this will go down as the least productive Florida House of Representatives in decades.” DeSantis also described the House as being focused “on the personal agendas of the leadership.”
President/Publisher: Kathy Stewart
Editor: Steve Stewart
Contributing Writers: Steve Stewart, Maddox Goodman, Samuel Schaefer, Kate Stewart
Social Media and Data Analysis: Robert Stewart
Last month, Florida A&M University announced the names of four finalists to become its president. In addition, University of South Florida President Rhea Law has announced she is stepping down.
LAWMAKERS, From Front Page
FSU/TMH Merger – An Argument for Working it Out
By Dana Brooks
It seems everyone has a strong opinion about Florida State University taking over Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Once we get past the ruffled feathers over how the matter came to light, it’s clear it all comes down to the same problem we always have in Tallahassee: who gets to decide how we grow.
In a nutshell, the City of Tallahassee owns the land and assets of TMH and leases it to them for $1.00 a year. TMH runs operations, led by a President/CEO and a 15-member board of directors, comprised of nine local business leaders and six members of the TMH medical staff. In March 2025, TMH asked the city to approve a 17-page plan creating a new regional board and brand to expand beyond Tallahassee. City leaders were concerned that the proposed changes granted TMH a lot of additional authority while diminishing city oversight. That prompted an agenda item at the next city commission meeting that included exploring the feasibility and potential advantages of a sale of TMH’s assets. FSU expressed an interest in acquiring the hospital
to create an academic medical center under the “FSU Health” banner.
The FSU Medical School already partners with TMH, which has resulted in expanding health care to previously underserved populations. There is no reason to believe that reach would recede. Indeed, TMH CEO Mark O’Bryant has long endorsed TMH becoming an academic health center, saying it was in TMH’s strategic plan for a long, long time. The arguments in support are many and those against it are few, but meaningful. It seems the only thing to do now is work out the details.
An obvious pro is ending the automatic “get out of town” response residents hear when people learn they’re dealing with a serious illness. Either we or someone we know has had to leave town for medical treatment. Even with health insurance, most people do not have the flex in their budgets to accommodate missing work and traveling for healthcare.
Another supporting argument is that academic medical centers have doctors and scientists conducting research to bring new, innovative treatments to our area and beyond.
By Jon Ausman
After running a successful State Representative campaign in late 1976 in Broward County, I moved to Tallahassee. By April 1980 I was Chair of the Leon County Democratic Party, a position I held for twenty years until January 2000.
During my time as County Chair I helped progressives, moderates and conservatives get elected provided they were Democratic candidates. Before helping I wanted to learn the code of conduct for each candidate so that I could communicate within their code to create a framework for assembling a mutually supportive coalition for each election. I also shared with these candidates my own code, some of which I present below. First, I encouraged each candidate I supported to, when elected, never take a gratuity or gift from anyone, especially from those who may be doing business under the office upon which they sought election. This would apply all the way down to declining a cup of coffee from any vendor, lobbyist or employee. Even such a small ‘kindness’ might one day skew a rational or neutral decision. I advised thank junkets paid for by other entities should be strictly avoided regardless of how much one may rationalize it as an informational and educational event.
New US Travel Requirement
Starting on May 7, most travelers flying domestically within the US must present a federally compliant driver's license or identification card— known as a REAL ID and marked by a star in the upper right corner—to airport security or to access other federal facilities.
Travelers without a REAL ID-compliant license or identification will still be allowed to board domestic flights, but should expect extra screening, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Currently, 81% of US travelers have REAL ID-compliant identification.
Congress enacted the REAL ID program in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations that the federal government set standards for issuing state identification documents like driver’s licenses. Its goal is to enhance the security and reliability of state-issued identification, making it harder to forge and requiring states to verify applicants’ information more thoroughly.
The program, originally set to launch in 2008, faced repeated delays due to states' concerns over implementation costs and privacy, limited federal funding, technical challenges, and disruptions
They attract the best and brightest students by placing them with leading academic experts using state-of-the-art technology. For patients, that gives us multiple sets of eyes and ears working together for the best possible outcomes.
Not only would an academic medical center expand the accessibility of higher-level health care in our region, it would make Tallahassee relevant for more than the legislature and football games. We could draw greater talent, which creates broader interest in our area, beyond medicine. Instead of our residents driving to Atlanta or Jacksonville to fly to conventions and symposiums, Tallahassee could host those meetings. It could free us from the economic hamstring created by the cyclical nature of living in a college town/capital city. Business owners would have reliable employees all year long, allowing them to grow their businesses and compete with chains, all while retaining the unique character of our community.
Yet another positive is that FSU would be the main source of capital for these improvements. The FSU/TMH expansions already in process have
reportedly not cost taxpayers. With FSU as a partner or owner, TMH could expand services and technology without raising taxes.
Still, there are well-founded concerns. One fear is that this would result in corporatized local healthcare or turn our healthcare providers into state workers. Many local medical practices have moved to a more efficient, technologically advanced, corporate structure. Staffing structures can be negotiated. That’s why God created lawyers.
Some fear losing their doctors who prefer working in a “community based” medical setting. But when was the last time you saw your doctor, versus an extender? The delivery of healthcare is rapidly changing, and patients have learned to adjust. But when an institution only wants oversight from a board of friends and co-workers, it is fair to question why.
Finally, many fear a loss of control at the local level and more top-down influence from the state level, introducing politics into local medical care. If you follow the news, you know that ship has sailed. There is a way to grow our city and our healthcare options,
In the Arena: A Code of Ethics
Second, I suggested they stay true to themselves and to vote their conscious in a manner to better our community. The ability to look at yourself in the mirror with satisfaction is more important than praise from friends of the office and even better than holding the office itself. I told all the candidates upon election that suddenly, as if by magic, upon being sworn in that people will say you are funnier, smarter, better looking, and more deserving of trophies or plaques of recognition by community groups. Once out of office, those “friends of the office” will move on to the new occupant.
Third, despite managing or advising many winning elections, I never took a job with the newly elected officeholder. If an elected official had hired me then I would no longer be doing what is best for the party but what is best for my boss. A party chair must serve the best interests of the entire party when it comes to voter registration, voter education, voter turnout, and voter performance. You cannot succeed in achieving the broad goals of the party if you are employed to represent the narrower interests of the employer. One cannot be fully committed to an inclusionary party if the ambitions of the boss must first be attended. The only honorable action is either to step down as party leader or resign the government post. Of course many would disagree with
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
US GDP Shrinks
me as the prefer to receive a steady check each month.
Fourth, as a general rule I prefer electoral systems that lower campaign costs so more citizens can consider running for office. It is why I support the five single member district and two at-large seats for County Commissioners when I served on an earlier County Charter Revision Committee. I would have preferred a 7-0 system but I compromised to get the 5-2.
Likewise I strongly supported the School Board moving to a 5-0 system that exists to this day with one school board seat, District 5, being entirely within the City. There is nothing inherently better by slicing the district pie starting at a central point and spreading out to the county boundaries.
While serving on another County Charter Revision Committee, I introduced a successful motion to limit donations to a maximum of $200 per person or legal entity. The Florida Legislature later undid that effort by setting higher maximums.
Lastly, I support a party rule that would allow all non-partisan voters, and perhaps minor party registrants, to vote in the Democratic primaries.
The United States Supreme Court in Connecticut approved the Republican Party of Connecticut adopted rules allowing non-partisan voters to cast ballots in the Republican Party primaries
National News Briefs
The US economy shrank for the first time in three years last quarter, according to new data released on April 30.
The nation's gross domestic product—or the value of all the goods and services it produced—declined at a 0.3% annual rate, short of expectations of 0.4% growth. The contraction, and an accompanying drop in consumer spending, came amid US tariff announcements fueling a surge in imports; those imports are subtracted from GDP. Economists are mixed on whether the second quarter will show a continued slowdown or whether it will rebound as US businesses reduce their imports. The data revealed a healthy pace of growth outside of imports and boosted investment in equipment.
A separate report from ADP showed private payrolls rising by 62,000 in April, far below the Dow Jones consensus estimate of 120,000. The combined reports caused experts to raise concerns about a potential recession in 2025.
Existing Home Sales Receded 5.9% in March
Existing home sales descended in March, according
to the National Association of REALTORS®. Sales slid in all four major U.S. regions. Year-over-year, sales dropped in the Midwest and South, increased in the West and were unchanged in the Northeast.
Total existing home sales –completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – fell 5.9% from February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.02 million in March. Year-overyear, sales drew back 2.4% (down from 4.12 million in March 2024).
"Home buying and selling remained sluggish in March due to the affordability challenges associated with high mortgage rates," said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. "Residential housing mobility, currently at historical lows, signals the troublesome possibility of less economic mobility for society."
The median existing home price for all housing types in March was $403,700, up 2.7% from one year ago ($392,900).
All four U.S. regions registered price increases.
"In a stark contrast to the stock and bond markets, household wealth in residential real estate continues to reach new heights," Yun said. "With mortgage delinquencies at near-historical lows, the hous-
introduce some objectivity and accountability to the process, and maintain sufficient local control, but it’s going to take maturity, level heads, putting the community first, and parking the egos in the garage.
Dana Brooks is managing partner of Fasig|Brooks Law Offices, serving injured persons throughout North Florida. She received her Bachelor of Science and Masters in Social Work as well as her law degree, magna cum laude, from Florida State University. Dana is a frequent speaker and panelist on matters ranging from leadership to women’s issues to community welfare. She has called Tallahassee home since 1991.
as superior to the Connecticut state law there that provided for a closed primary.
The reason for this post on ethics is that I recently learned that in January of this year a former FDP State Chair, Terrie Brady of Jacksonville, and one other officer had been indicted by a Federal grant jury for allegedly taking $1.2 million each by selling back to their union, that she led, vacation time the grand jury said “they had not accrued and did not earn” between 2013 and 2022. Another former FDP State Chair, Scott Maddox, plead guilty to multiple fraud charges in 2019.
While the above allegations and crimes may seem horrendous, there are local candidates who take “free” pizzas for their campaign workers without recording it as a donation to their campaign. Just taking the free and undeclared pizzas from a person raises the question of ethics. But especially when they are seeking someone to provide them a third vote. It is a slippery slope once you do so. This gets me back to don’t even, or ever, “take a cup of coffee.”
Jon M. Ausman is the longest serving Chair of the Leon County Democratic Party in Leon County’s history (April 1980 to January 2000). He can be reached at 850-321-7799 or at ausman@embarqmail.com.
ing market is on solid footing. A small deceleration in home price gains, which was slightly below wage-growth increases in March, would be a welcome improvement for affordability”
National Security Adviser
Mike Waltz Out National Security Adviser
Mike Waltz was relieved of his current role and will become ambassador to the United Nations, according to a social media post by President Donald Trump yesterday. The decision comes after fallout from a leak of military plans in a Signal group chat. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will fill the role on an interim basis. Waltz is the first senior leader in Trump’s second administration to exit his role.
As national security adviser, Waltz was tasked with providing the president with direct, cross-departmental reports on national security and producing the president’s daily brief. The White House had reportedly considered firing Waltz for weeks due to his role in the leak, in which the three-term former Florida congressman unintentionally invited Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg into a group chat discussing imminent military plans in March. Several other national security officials were fired in recent weeks. Defense
Secretary Pete Hegseth faces ongoing scrutiny for his participation in the chat.
Buffett Announces Retirement
Famed investor Warren Buffett will step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway by the end of the year. The 94-yearold made the announcement at the company's annual shareholder meeting, a widely anticipated event referred to as the "Woodstock of Capitalism." Buffett seeks to install Greg Abel, vice chairman of noninsurance operations, as his replacement.
Born and raised (and still residing) in Omaha, Nebraska, Buffett took the lead at Berkshire Hathaway—then a struggling textile company—in 1970. Since then, the company has grown into a wide-ranging conglomerate with controlling shares in roughly 70 companies. Known for his dedication to value investing (which emphasizes finding undervalued stocks), the company has delivered average returns of almost 20% since Buffett took over. More recently, the company has stockpiled cash, with close to $350B on hand. Buffett's longtime business partner, Charlie Munger, passed away at age 99 in late 2023.
PRESS
CHEST
Fertilizer Rain Delay Continues in May
The Fertilizer Rain Delay campaign reminds homeowners and professional fertilizer applicators not to apply fertilizer for at least one day ahead of forecasted heavy rain (1 inch or more in 24 hours). Check Leon County social media pages for a reminder to refrain from fertilizing whenever there is heavy rain in the forecast. Learn more about fertilizer application and best practices at LeonCountyFL.gov/Fertilizer.
Apply to Serve on the Children’s Services Council
Approved by voters during the November 2020 General Election, the Children’s Services Council (CSC) functions to provide children with early learning and reading skills, development, treatment, preventative and other children’s services. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply to serve on the council by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at LeonCountyFL.gov/CSCApplication.
Celebrate Florida Emancipation Day at Henry Hill Park
Celebrate freedom and community at the Henry Hill Foundation's annual Florida Emancipation Day Celebration on Saturday, May 17, from 1-7 p.m. at Henry Hill Park, 1835 Centerville Road. During this family-friendly event, learn about the rich history of Emancipation Day in Florida while enjoying an afternoon filled with food, music, drum beating, wrapping the maypole, dancing, and more.
Business News
March Unemployment Rate Unchanged, Jobs & Workforce Up
The latest jobs report shows the Leon County March unemployment rate was unchanged from February at 3.8%.
The number of jobs in Leon County increased in March by 586 when compared to the February jobs report. There were 161,943 people working in Leon County in March compared to February’s revised employment number of 161,357. The size of the workforce also increased in
March. There were 168,281 people in the workforce in March, up from 167,656 reported in February.
Year Over Year Comparisons
The Leon County Jobs Report, provided below, shows the number of people working in March 2025 was 2,162 more than in March 2024. The March labor force – those looking for jobs – came in at 168,281 which was 2,877 more than the number reported one year ago.
The March unemployment rate of 3.8% is up from the 3.4% 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
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union to Acquire Prime Meridian Bank
MID Florida Credit Union recently announced plans to acquire Prime Meridian Bank, which was founded in Tallahassee and first opened for business on February 4, 2008. The Company was incorporated on May 25, 2010, and became the parent bank holding company of the Bank on September 16, 2010.
The bank has grown from 14 to over 100 employees and has been in the OTCQX Best 50, an annual ranking of the top 50 national and international companies traded on the OTCQX Best Market.
“We built a bank based on a culture of service to our clients, our team and our community,” said Sammie Dixon, Prime Meridian’s Vice Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. “We recognized the strength in being able to adapt to change and it is fitting we now find ourselves in a position to bring physical locations to MIDFLORIDA’s operations in the Big Bend area. The opportunities for our employees (all of whom will be retained by MIDFLORIDA), and the expanded resources available to our clients, are huge,” Dixon added.
Steve Moseley, President and Chief Executive Officer of MIDFLORIDA
Credit Union, echoed this sentiment.
“As Florida’s community credit union we are already serving the panhandle in a lending capacity with mortgage, auto and commercial business loans. This acquisition will provide branches in the market to fuel additional growth in both consumer and business banking.”
This represents the third bank acquisition for MIDFLORIDA in the last five years.
Prime Meridian Bank currently operates four Florida offices: two in Tallahassee, one in Crawfordville, and one in Lakeland. The bank is widely recognized for its culture of personalized client service, commercial lending portfolio and well-established mortgage operation.
LEAP Now Accepting Applications
The Jim Moran Progam Helps Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The Leon Entrepreneurship and Adversity Program (LEAP) is launching in Tallahassee this fall—and applications are now open.
Managed by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and the Jim Moran Institute at Florida State University, LEAP helps aspiring entrepreneurs facing difficult circumstances start or grow their businesses.
Participants will take part in the Community Bootcamp for Entrepreneurs, a hands-on program taught by seasoned faculty, subject matter experts, and successful entrepreneurs. Sessions run on six consecutive Saturday mornings from 8:30 AM–12:30 PM, beginning October 18 through
November 22, followed by networking lunches. Topics covered include: Launching and growing a successful venture, Understanding your market and profit model, Setting up operations, marketing, and financial basics & Thinking and acting entrepreneurially with limited resources.
Cost: $500 | Scholarships: $475 scholarships available based on financial need (participants pay only $25). Deadline to apply: Saturday, September 27, 2025 Apply here: jimmoraninstitute.fsu. edu/leap
By Robert Stewart
Local Sports Lincoln Defeats Chiles Baseball in Regional Semifinals
On April 30, the Lincoln baseball team (22-9) hosted Chiles (17-14) in a best two out of three series in the FHSAA 5A region 1 semifinals. These two teams met twice this year in the regular season with Lincoln winning the first game 7-1 and Chiles winning the second 4-3. Lincoln won the series in two games advancing to the regional finals.
Lincoln started the first game off with three runs in the first inning holding an early advantage against the Timberwolves. Chiles found their first run in the third inning, but Lincoln responded with another three-run
inning in the third as well. Lincoln’s defense, behind pitcher Nate Diez (Sr.), closed out the game without allowing a run in the last four innings, resulting in a 7-1 win for the Trojans. Notable performances for the Trojans include Nate Diez who allowed only allowing two hits, recorded three K’s and had a .087 OBA (opponent batting average) and Jayson Parker who had five RBI’s, one homerun and a batting average of .667.
The second and final game of the series took place on May 1 and was the closest game out of the two. Unlike the first game, Chiles scored first in the second inning bringing home two runs. The Timberwolves kept the
Chiles, Florida High Flag Football Teams Headed to State Semifinals
By Robert Stewart
On May 1, both Chiles (14-4) and Florida High (15-3) won their regional final flag football games to advance to the state semifinals. Chiles competed in the 5A classification as a second seed in their region, while Florida High competed in the 1A classification as a first seed.
Florida High (1A)
As the top seed in their region, the Florida high flag football team played third seeded Bradford (14-3) in the regional finals in Tallahassee. Quarterback Danielle White (Jr.) led the Seminole offense with 113 yards through the air on six completions and 83 yards on the ground on seven carries. White accounted for both of Florida High’s touchdowns contributing one rushing touchdown and one passing touchdown. On the other end of the touchdown pass from White was Florida High wide receiver Azura Vermettee (Jr.) who had 2 catches for 72 yards including a 62-yard touchdown reception.
On the defensive side of the ball for the Seminoles, Hannah Bowden (Fr.) led the team in tackles with a total of
six with two sacks. Other notable defensive performances include Emma Prosser (7th) and Danielle White both recording one interception each.
With their 14-0 win against Bradford, Florida High is set to play Eddison (17-1) in the state semi finals on May. 8.
Chiles (3A)
After just sliding by Fleming Island in a 7-6 victory in the regional semi finals, the Timberwolves upset the top seeded Pace (17-2) 12-6, handing them only their second loss of the season. Timberwolves quarterback Kendall Sadberry (Fr.) threw for 128 yards on 10 completions with a passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown. On the other end of Sadberry’s touchdown pass was wide receiver Katie Vernon who had two catches for 18 yards.
Notable performances on the defensive side of the the ball include Lainey Crisafulli (So.) who led the team with seven tackles, Tessa Vermillion (So.) led the team with three sacks and Kendall Sadberry had one interception. With this win, Chiles plays Homestead in the state semifinals on May 8.
Julian V. Smith COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
MIKE STEHLIK
Mike Stehlik is the recipient of the Julian V. Smith Community Service Award, an honor reserved for the Capital City Associate who selflessly gives of themselves for the benefit of others and exemplifies a deep dedication to strengthening their community.
Over decades of volunteer leadership, Mike has demonstrated a true heart for service. His efforts are remarkable, not only for the number of causes he supports — ranging from education and youth development to the arts and local government — but for the depth and longevity of his involvement. When Mike steps up to serve, he remains committed. His steady, tireless service has made a lasting impact and helped build a stronger community for his neighbors.
In honor of his dedication, a $1,000 grant will be awarded by the Capital City Bank Group Foundation on Mike’s behalf and evenly divided between the two organizations of his choice, Theatre Tallahassee and Scouting America.
C ongratulations , Mike !
Trojans quite on offense until they took the lead scoring three runs in the fourth inning. Although Chiles found the tying run in the sixth inning the Trojans managed to score in the final inning to win the game 4-3.
A notable performance from the Timberwolves included Jack Neely (Sr.) with one RBI, one homerun and a batting average of .667.
A notable performance from the Trojans included pitcher Chase Fuller (So.) who faced nine batters and had four total strikeouts with a OBA of .250
With this win, Lincoln will face off against Niceville (27-4) in an away series for the FHSAA 5A region 1 final on May 7.
Chiles, Florida High Fall in Beach Volleyball Regional Finals
By Robert Stewart
On May. 6, both Florida High (11-5) and Chiles (16-2) competed in a beach volleyball regional final match in their respective classification. Chiles played in the FHSAA 2A region 1 final against Gulf Breeze (19-3) while Florida High played in the FHSAA 1A region 1 final against episcopal (17-5). Although both matches came down to the wire, the beach volleyball season came to an end for both the Timberwolves and the Seminoles.
2A Region 1
Chiles and Gulf Breeze started the dual off by splitting the fourth and fifth positions with the Timberwolves
winning the fours in a third set but losing the fives in a third set as well. Gulf Breeze’s second and third positions both won their matches in straight sets clinching the dual for the Dolphins and advancing them to the state semifinals. Chiles’ first position ended up winning the final match to make the final score 3-2.
1A Region 1
Florida High had the most success against Episcopal in the middle of the lineup forcing the second, third and fourth positions all to a third set. Although the Seminoles won the third position they lost every other position including the first and fifth positions in straight sets, losing the dual 4-1.
