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<\/a>FSU art students assist Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens staff in preparing an interactive toy for testing within the bird enclosure. Image via Matthew McConnell\/FSU.<\/p>\n\u201cThe creativity behind the design for these items and the quality of the products they were able to produce was far above my expectations. These students being able to come in, bring a fresh set of eyes, the time and the tools to create all of these things is really awesome,\u201d said Danielle Minkus, senior Bird Keeper at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.<\/p>\n
To ensure the highest-quality results, the class worked alongside veterinarians, zookeepers and zoo staff to understand each species\u2019 behaviors, quirks and needs. The goal was to design toys explicitly tailored to each animal. Species selected for the project included giraffes, Komodo dragons, and various birds.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s very, very rare that our clients are 10-foot-tall animals. We designed a barrel with holes arranged in a giraffe pattern, with two layers that force the giraffes to stretch their tongues and exercise their mouth muscles more than they typically would in captivity,\u201d said Kate Casey, a senior dual-degree studio art and theater student.<\/p>\n
Students tested their designs and sourced safe materials through the FSU Innovation Hub, a collaborative workspace open to on-campus students. Once complete, the class traveled to the Jacksonville zoo, where final adjustments were made with zoo staff as needed.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving others interested in helping us improve the well-being of our animals is really invaluable. At the end of the day, everyone\u2019s goal is for these animals to live their best lives and having the university help with that is just incredible,\u201d said Alexis Hart, Applied Animal Wellbeing Officer at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.<\/p>\n
So the next time you\u2019re at the Jacksonville zoo with the kids and see giraffes playing with a unique toy, know it was made possible by some enthusiastic Seminoles with a love for art and animals.<\/p>\n \u201cI think this class honestly taught me about career paths that I didn\u2019t even know existed. There\u2019s so much research to be done in animal enrichment and interdisciplinary studies, and how that connects to art and design \u2014 that\u2019s a link I\u2019d never made before,\u201d Casey said.<\/p>\n FSU may be known for party animals, but this time it\u2019s the real ones \u2014 and the Noles are making their lives a little better.<\/p>\n ___<\/p>\n Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida\u2019s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics.<\/p>\n But first, the \u201cTakeaway 5\u201d \u2014 the Top 5 stories from the week that was:<\/p>\n \u2014 Take 5 \u2014<\/p>\n Surprise, surprise<\/a> \u2014 Florida\u2019s congressional redistricting to address supposedly \u201cmalapportioned\u201d districts will come after the Regular Session ends, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced this week. The redistricting Session is set to convene at noon on April 20 and adjourn by the end of that week, with a narrowly tailored agenda: produce a new congressional map and set aside money to defend it in court. This April timetable aligns with DeSantis\u2019 repeated assertions that he expects redistricting \u201cthis Spring,\u201d a move that could further cement GOP dominance of the congressional delegation and help maintain a Republican U.S. House next year.<\/p>\n But wait, there\u2019s more<\/a> \u2014 During the same announcement, DeSantis said another Special Session may be in the works to develop a ballot initiative on eliminating property taxes that can actually pass muster with voters. DeSantis says clear and simple language is necessary to achieve the 60% support needed to amend Florida\u2019s Constitution. And it may not be possible to get that during the hurly-burly of the 60-day Legislative Session that starts next week. The Governor also said that a unified, clear product would benefit Republicans politically in November, saying it would \u201cget people to be excited about voting.\u201d The House currently has several proposals moving through the process. But DeSantis doubts the Senate will pass them and says that even if it did, the process would be more perilous.<\/p>\n He wasn\u2019t kidding<\/a> \u2014 Rep. Kevin Steele this week reached into his pocket to put $5 million into his statewide campaign for Chief Financial Officer. The Dade City Republican, who is challenging appointed incumbent Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, said he\u2019s willing to put a significant chunk of skin in the game as he runs. DeSantis appointed Ingoglia in July and has the Governor\u2019s endorsement for a full term, but Steele entered the race at the encouragement of President Donald Trump\u2019s political team. He also enjoys the support of U.S. Sen. Rick Scott. Steele, who so far has held back from running an intensely negative campaign, has said he would take a different approach to reducing spending than Ingoglia.<\/p>\n Case closed(ish)<\/a> \u2014 Former Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence CEO Tiffany Carr has agreed to a negotiated plea that would spare her prison time in exchange for cooperation with state prosecutors, including testifying against a co-defendant, former FCADV Chief Financial Officer Patricia Duarte, later this month. Carr and Duarte were accused of submitting false quarterly reports, billing the state for vacant positions and charging for services that were never provided. The plea comes five years after Florida ended its contract with FCADV, a nonprofit established by the state and tasked with distributing state and federal grants to Florida\u2019s 42 domestic violence shelters. DeSantis dissolved the organization in a 2021 executive order.<\/p>\n One in, one out<\/a> \u2014 As first reported by Florida Politics, Rep. Johanna L\u00f3pez said she is not running for re-election to the House but is turning her sights on the Orange County Board of Commissioners instead. L\u00f3pez said she had long eyed the Orange County Commission but saw the opportunity to run now, as District 4 is an open race, and she could avoid challenging an incumbent. Alongside her HD 43 exit announcement, L\u00f3pez endorsed Orange County Democratic Chair Samuel Vilchez Santiago as her successor. Santiago has led the county party for three years and helped flip seven local seats. He told Florida Politics he\u2019s ready for his next challenge: \u201cAll the work that we\u2019ve been doing out in the community to win elections and to shape local politics will obviously come in handy as we get to this state House race.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Operation Tidal Wave \u2014<\/p>\n This week, DeSantis announced that \u201cOperation Tidal Wave\u201d has successfully concluded, resulting in more than 10,000 arrests of illegal residents. The operation showcases Florida\u2019s commitment to working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to protect Florida citizens.<\/p>\n \u201cSince Operation Tidal Wave launched eight months ago, Florida law enforcement agencies have arrested more than 10,400 illegal aliens and worked with federal partners to remove them from our state and country,\u201d said DeSantis. \u201cThis is the largest joint immigration enforcement operation in ICE\u2019s history, and we\u2019re proud that it will continue here in Florida.\u201d<\/p>\n Of those arrested, 3,435 are from Guatemala, 3,331 from Mexico, 1,353 from Honduras, 312 from El Salvador, 312 from Venezuela and 1,249 from various other countries.<\/p>\n The Sheriff\u2019s Offices that played a significant role in supporting the operation and ICE included Alachua County, Baker County, Bradford County, Brevard County, Clay County, Hernando County, Hillsborough County, Indian River County, Orange County, Pinellas County, St. Johns County, Sumter County and Volusia County.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s immigration enforcement efforts are delivering real results to the people of our state. Operation Tidal Wave is a prime example of those efforts, with more than 10,000 arrests made, marking a major milestone to protect public safety and uphold the rule of law,\u201d said Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough our first-in-the-nation 287(g) partnerships, Florida is working hand in hand with the federal government to ensure that individuals in our country illegally \u2014 especially those with serious criminal convictions \u2014 are identified, detained and processed appropriately.\u201d<\/p>\n Federal, state and local law-enforcement agencies collaborated to conduct Operation Tidal Wave. ICE Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the FBI, the DEA, the and the U.S. Marshals Service all assisted at the federal level.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are a country of laws, and Florida is and always will be a law-and-order state. We will never apologize for doing anything in our power to make sure Floridians are safe,\u201d said Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement Director Anthony Coker.<\/p>\n \u2014 A Milly \u2014<\/p>\n It hasn\u2019t been the best week for immigration enforcement at the national level, but that didn\u2019t stop the state\u2019s Chief Financial Officer from making the rounds, despite the optics.<\/p>\n This week, CFO Blaise Ingoglia stopped by the Seminole County Sheriff\u2019s Office to personally present Sheriff Dennis Lemma with more than $1 million to support immigration enforcement efforts. The State Board of Immigration Enforcement provided the funding.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida has continued to be the gold standard for immigration enforcement in our country, thanks to the hard work of our local and federal law-enforcement partners. Because of the work of our law-enforcement agencies, criminal illegal aliens are being taken off our streets and Florida families are safer,\u201d said Ingoglia.<\/p>\n Under the 287(g) agreement under the Immigration and Nationality Act, state and local law-enforcement agencies may partner with federal authorities, including ICE. Local agencies can also apply for reimbursement for immigration enforcement activities through funding provided by the State Board of Immigration Enforcement.<\/p>\n \u201cWith the support of the State of Florida, the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, and our continued collaboration with our federal partners, we have the critical financial resources and operational capacity necessary to identify and remove criminal aliens who deliberately bypass the immigration process, ignore our laws, and threaten the safety of our community,\u201d said Lemma.<\/p>\n \u201cThese funds are not only deeply appreciated but also vital to ensuring that our deputies have the tools, training, and support required to carry out their duties with diligence and professionalism.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 Clear the way \u2014<\/p>\n Don\u2019t be a road hog \u2014 especially in an emergency. That\u2019s the message from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).<\/p>\n Both agencies are reminding drivers that January is \u201cMove Over Month.\u201d The awareness campaign is designed to remind motorists that Florida law requires vehicles to move over from outside lanes when emergency, service, or utility vehicles are responding to a scene. Drivers must move into an inside lane or slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit if moving over is not possible. The Move Over Act has been law in Florida since 2002.<\/p>\n \u201cUnfortunately, over the years, we have seen many State Troopers, other law-enforcement officers, and service professionals injured or killed by someone not giving them the room to work,\u201d said DHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner.<\/p>\n \u201cThese are preventable crashes that not only take our officers away from their families but also take members of our communities who gave freely to make Florida a safer place to live and travel. Please remember to slow down and move over. Lives depend on it.\u201d<\/p>\n As of Jan. 1, the Florida Move Over Act has been expanded to include vehicles parked on the side of the road with hazard lights flashing, emergency flares or visible emergency signs, as well as disabled cars with flat tires.<\/p>\n \u2014 Rearview mirror \u2014<\/p>\n As 2026 warms its way into our hearts and minds \u2014 and muscle memory while writing or typing \u2014 the start of the year is always an appropriate time to look back at what was accomplished in the year prior or even what was squandered.<\/p>\n This week, the FLHSMV and its FHP division did just that.<\/p>\n With more than 1,600 FLHSMV personnel and nearly 2,000 State Troopers, it takes a significant amount of effort to serve and protect Florida\u2019s 23 million residents and 143 million visitors. But this past year was all about maintaining law-and-order (DUN-DUN) for the many Americans who call Florida home.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and the Florida Highway Patrol have had an unprecedented year, one that will leave a lasting impact on Floridians and visitors alike,\u201d said Kerner.<\/p>\n Highlights from the year included entering into a memorandum of agreement with ICE, apprehending more than 7,000 illegal residents, providing pay raises for law-enforcement officers, assisting Miami and Panama City with Spring Break activities, implementing the Desk Trooper Program, and launching the Verification of Lawful Status (VLS)\/Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, among other accomplishments.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are protecting families, preserving law-and-order and upholding the values that make Florida strong. As we look ahead, we remain committed to building on these achievements, strengthening collaboration with our partners, and ensuring that Florida\u2019s highways remain safe, secure, and welcoming for all,\u201d Kerner said.<\/p>\n \u2014 DEP celebrates 2025 \u2014<\/p>\n DEP also rolled back the tape on 2025 to revisit what was accomplished. After all, that\u2019s what the Oscars do in the early stretch of the year, right?<\/p>\n This week, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Secretary Alexis Lambert reflected on the work accomplished last year \u2014 from Everglades projects to conserving working lands \u2014 2025 was a busy one.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s environment is not separate from our economy; it is the foundation of it,\u201d Lambert said. \u201cFlorida has made strategic, forward-thinking investments that protect our air, water, and land while ensuring Florida remains a place where both communities and commerce can thrive. I look forward to working with the Governor and the Florida Legislature in the coming year to continue turning Florida\u2019s environmental commitments into measurable results.\u201d<\/p>\n Among the major accomplishments was the completion of the 10,000-acre Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir, which is set to deliver clean water across the Tamiami Trail and into Florida Bay.<\/p>\n The year also marked the 200th conservation easement completed through the Florida Forever program, bringing the total to nearly 400,000 acres of working farms protected from private development. It also coincided with the program\u2019s 25th anniversary.<\/p>\n And when it comes to rankings, Florida landed two beaches on the \u201cBeach\u2019s Top 10 Beaches List for 2025.\u201d Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples came in at No. 4, while St. Andrews State Park in Panama City ranked No. 7. The list of accomplishments goes on, but those were some of the standouts.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s hoping 2026 proves to be an even better year for Florida\u2019s environment.<\/p>\n \u2014 FloridaCommerce FTW \u2014<\/p>\n FloridaCommerce joined the rest of the class in taking one more look back at 2025 this week, highlighting its accomplishments from the past year, including Florida\u2019s ranking as the top economy in the nation for the third consecutive year by CNBC. Florida\u2019s annual GDP now stands at roughly $1.8 trillion, representing a 65% increase since 2019.<\/p>\n \u201cIn 2025, Florida strengthened its position as the most business-friendly state in the nation \u2014 supporting small and emerging businesses, accelerating growth in key industries, expanding workforce training, and reinforcing our role as an international hub for investment and innovation,\u201d said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.<\/p>\n \u201cCreating an environment where job creators and job seekers can thrive in the Free State of Florida.\u201d<\/p>\n Highlights from the year included DeSantis welcoming SpaceX\u2019s Starship operations to Florida, the full repeal of the business rent tax and the creation of law-enforcement recruitment bonus programs.<\/p>\n \u201cBy aligning resources with statewide initiatives and enhancing services across our network, we\u2019re ensuring that job seekers and businesses have the tools and support they need to thrive. We are grateful for the leadership of Governor DeSantis and our dedicated Board of Directors, whose vision and guidance make these accomplishments possible,\u201d said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Adrienne Johnston.<\/p>\n FloridaCommerce also pointed to international outreach efforts, including participation in the Paris Air Show, to showcase Florida\u2019s growing role as a global hub for aerospace and aviation.<\/p>\n \u2014 Wastewater info \u2014<\/p>\n Water is essential to Florida \u2014 even the dirty kind \u2014 and what we do with it.<\/p>\n This week, Rep. Lindsay Cross and Senate Minority Leader Lori Berman filed HB 1167 and SB 1468, respectively, for the 2026 Legislative Session to address wastewater infrastructure needs across Florida.<\/p>\n \u201cOur environment and economy depend on clean water, yet aging sewage facilities continue to threaten our resources. By requiring annual reports on treatment levels and infrastructure health, SB 1468 allows us to prioritize the most urgent upgrades and ensure a sustainable future for Florida,\u201d Berman said.<\/p>\n Due to inadequate sewage and stormwater infrastructure across the state, water quality continues to degrade. If passed, the legislation would require wastewater facilities to submit data to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which would then be made public. Required reporting would include pollution treatment levels, including nitrogen, phosphorus, PFAS and other contaminants.<\/p>\n \u201cAll Floridians deserve clean water regardless of their ZIP code. Unfortunately, the patchwork of water quality policies in Florida means that wastewater is treated to different standards throughout the state. This bill will empower lawmakers with comprehensive data to make better decisions about water quality improvements and where to invest scarce resources to clean up our water. And it provides the public with better accountability of where their money is going,\u201d Cross said.<\/p>\n Supporters say making the reports public would help the state better identify needs and develop targeted plans to modernize wastewater treatment facilities by using consistent data.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida continues to be burdened by our aging and inadequate wastewater infrastructure, causing water quality issues throughout our state. We must prioritize investments that bring us into the 21st century. We are encouraged by this bill, which will have support in communities across the state,\u201d said Tampa Bay Waterkeeper Executive Director Justin Tramble.<\/p>\n \u201cAs Floridians, we\u2019ve all seen firsthand the devastating impact of raw sewage dumped into our rivers and bays time and time again. Now is the time to prioritize fixing this. Our water is just too important to do anything less.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 The Third Man \u2014<\/p>\n Transparency is key in all areas of life \u2014 except for a few things we probably don\u2019t want to see too closely, like how the sausage gets made. But when it comes to kids, crystal-clear communication and accountability are the expectation. The bar is not high. It\u2019s basic.<\/p>\n In a rare display of bipartisanship, Sen. Keith Truenow and Rep. Johanna L\u00f3pez this week filed SB 1008 and HB 867, respectively, to strengthen transparency and oversight for student support services operating in Florida\u2019s K-12 public schools. SB 1008 and HB 857 address potential gaps in communication and oversight involving third-party organizations \u2014 such as counselors, coaches and tutors \u2014 that work with students.<\/p>\n \u201cParents deserve to know who is working with their children, how programs operate, and whether proper safeguards are in place. This bill puts common-sense standards in place around student support services so families can make informed decisions and schools can ensure students are safe while participating in these programs,\u201d L\u00f3pez said.<\/p>\n SB 1008 and HB 857 would also require Level 2 background screenings for all individuals working with students in third-party school programs, including counseling, tutoring, sports and clubs. The intent is to establish clear expectations for parents regarding appropriate mentorship and interactions with their children. Knowledge is power.<\/p>\n \u201cThis bill is a good first step to ensuring that third-party mentor programs have a basic level of accountability and fairness. We should expect nothing less for our children. The bills being proposed by Representative L\u00f3pez and myself are long overdue,\u201d Truenow said.<\/p>\n On the technology side of transparency, schools would also be required to post clear and accessible information on their websites detailing all third-party programs offered if the legislation passes. The measure would take effect July 1, 2026.<\/p>\n \u2014 Change a coming? \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s time to streamline and modernize. Adapt or move over. And yes, that apparently applies to bureaucracy as well.<\/p>\n This week, Sen. Tina Polsky and Rep. Dan Daley announced they are filing SB 1450 and HB 1199, respectively, to transfer the Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement from FLHSMV to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).<\/p>\n The goal is to modernize Florida\u2019s transportation law-enforcement structure by consolidating statewide operations under FDLE while ensuring FHP maintains its authority, purpose and identity.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s law-enforcement structure should be organized around public safety and services, not outdated bureaucracy. By moving the Highway Patrol and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement to FDLE, we are strengthening coordination, improving accountability, and ensuring critical public safety and licensing functions are led by experienced law-enforcement professionals,\u201d Polsky said.<\/p>\n The legislation would also require updates throughout the Florida Statutes to ensure continuity of traffic enforcement and public safety operations. In addition, it would require the Executive Director of FLHSMV to be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.<\/p>\n \u201cFloridians deserve a government that works, not excuses. The Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is supposed to do two basic things: provide efficient licensing services and ensure public safety through its oversight of the Florida Highway Patrol. Right now, it is failing at both,\u201d Daley said.<\/p>\n \u201cDespite shifting much of the licensing process to county tax collectors, wait times remain unacceptable while agency leadership continues to claim success that simply isn\u2019t reflected on the ground. This bill restores accountability by requiring Senate confirmation of the Division Director and strengthens public safety by moving the FHP under the FDLE, where law-enforcement oversight, training and accountability belong.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen performance doesn\u2019t match reality, oversight isn\u2019t political \u2014 it\u2019s imperative.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Hard time \u2014<\/p>\n State Rep. Berny Jacques is sponsoring a bill for the upcoming Legislative Session that would increase penalties for possession of child pornography.<\/p>\n Jacques\u2019 bill (HB 1159<\/a>) proposes that anyone who possesses more than 10 files of pornographic material involving a minor would face a mandatory prison sentence of at least five years, up to 15 years, depending on whether the offense is classified as a second-degree or third-degree felony.<\/p>\n The bill would also redefine \u201cchild\u201d to include \u201cpersons whose identities are unknown or appear to be younger than 18 years of age,\u201d according to a news release from Jacques\u2019 office. Jacques is a Clearwater Republican.<\/p>\n In addition, the proposal would mandate a minimum 15-year prison sentence for anyone convicted of knowingly using a child for a sexual performance, increasing to 25 years if the offense is classified as aggravated use of a child.<\/p>\n The bill also proposes increased penalties for generating and distributing child pornography, as well as for those convicted of sexual acts with animals.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is imperative that we protect our most vulnerable against the most heinous crimes imaginable,\u201d said Jacques.<\/p>\n \u2014 Revolving door \u2014<\/p>\n Florida\u2019s public schools are entering the second half of the academic year with thousands of unfilled positions, according to newly released teacher and staff vacancy data.<\/p>\n The latest figures show an increase in vacancies since August 2025, leaving districts statewide short of bus drivers, paraprofessionals, custodial staff, cafeteria workers and classroom teachers. By midyear, most positions are typically filled, but vacancies persist well into January, a trend advocates say reflects roles districts are struggling to fill.<\/p>\n Turnover remains high. Statewide data shows that 31% of teachers last year had fewer than four years of experience, a statistic education leaders cite as evidence of a system marked by constant churn rather than stability.<\/p>\n The Florida Education Association argues staffing shortages persist despite declining public-school enrollment, which it links to rising living costs, the state\u2019s voucher program and policies affecting migrant communities. Even with fewer students enrolled, districts continue to report widespread vacancies, raising concerns about educator retention.<\/p>\n While some vacancy totals have declined year over year, the teacher union said those reductions are mainly attributable to budget cuts and the elimination of positions, not to sustained improvements.<\/p>\n Advocates also contend that some districts may temporarily fill positions with uncertified substitutes and leave vacancies unadvertised, masking the true scope of staffing challenges.<\/p>\n \u201cWhile the Commissioner of Education will likely try to rewrite the facts, the truth is, if even one child walks into a classroom this semester without a permanent, certified educator, that is one too many,\u201d FEA President Andrew Spar said.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s unacceptable for students to cycle through four or five different teachers in a single year, because consistency is key to student success. Yet, between the micromanagement of classrooms, overbearing regulations, and Florida ranking 50th in average teacher pay, our educators and education staff professionals are being chased out of the profession.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Housing group scores \u2014<\/p>\n The Florida Housing Finance Corp. is heading into 2026 with a sense of satisfaction, noting significant gains over the past year.<\/p>\n The affordable housing advocacy group is recapping its 2025 successes and there are plenty. In a news release, Florida Housing officials highlighted that for the seventh consecutive year, Gov. DeSantis approved approximately $435 million in appropriations for the organization. The funding was included in the 2025-26 fiscal budget and is intended to help ensure safe and affordable housing for Florida families.<\/p>\n That funding includes $71.2 million for apartment incentive loan programs, $150 million for local components of those programs, $163.8 million for the State Housing Initiatives Program, which encourages partnerships between local governments and developers and $50 million for the Florida Hometown Heroes program. The latter assists first-time homebuyers working in fields such as law enforcement, first response, education, child care, active military service and veterans\u2019 services.<\/p>\n In addition to major legislative appropriations, Florida Housing cited multiple other accomplishments in 2025, including tax credits and homebuyer loan programs, according to the release.<\/p>\n \u2014 Kutak and Tally Lawyers, Rock \u2014<\/p>\n Big news in the Tallahassee legal scene: Kutak Rock, a national law firm with 21 offices across 14 states and Washington, D.C., and more than 550 attorneys serving commercial and government clients, announced that two Tallahassee-based attorneys have been elected to the firm\u2019s partnership: Ryan Durgan and Michele Rigoni. Applause all-around for the 850-lawyer operation.<\/p>\n Durgan is known for counseling special districts in Florida on district operations and governance, including infrastructure financing, contracts, public procurement of goods and services, ethics, public records and open meetings.<\/p>\n He also advises landowners and developers on the formation of special districts and infrastructure financing.<\/p>\n Rigoni has extensive experience counseling special districts, landowners, developers and related parties on special district formation and governance, public financing and infrastructure construction, and land development.<\/p>\n In addition, Rigoni advises Florida districts on a wide range of matters, including contracts, real property, public procurement of goods and services, ethics, public records and open meetings.<\/p>\n Kutak Rock emphasizes a client-first approach and delivering excellence by understanding the full scope of client needs. By that measure, Durgan and Rigoni have clearly earned their new roles.<\/p>\n \u2014 Big Bend expands \u2014<\/p>\n Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. For decades, Floridians in North Florida have relied on the compassionate care provided by Big Bend Hospice \u2014 and the nonprofit is heading into 2026 with big news.<\/p>\n This week, the organization that has served the Big Bend region since 1983 announced it will expand its end-of-life care services to Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf counties.<\/p>\n The expansion marks the first step toward a longer-term goal of providing care to individuals and families throughout this part of the state.<\/p>\n \u201cOur teams have already begun building relationships with providers, facilities and community partners to better understand the unique needs of each community and to ensure the introduction of BBH services is thoughtful, seamless, and rooted in compassion,\u201d said Bill Wertman, CEO of Big Bend Hospice.<\/p>\n End-of-life care options can be limited for Floridians living in more rural areas. During an already stressful and emotionally charged time for friends and families, navigating care for loved ones can be especially difficult.<\/p>\n That\u2019s where Big Bend Hospice steps in, bringing more than 40 years of experience supporting patients and families through moments centered on comfort, dignity and compassion. The organization says it is eager to extend that care to communities in need across North Florida.<\/p>\n \u2014 FAMU storyteller makes CBS \u2014<\/p>\n Everyone in Florida knows the strength of Florida A&M University\u2019s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC). This week reinforces why.<\/p>\n This week, FAMU announced that student journalist and multimedia storyteller Jonathan Charles had one of his stories selected by KFF (formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation). The piece was then distributed nationally by CBS News, a frequent KFF media partner.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen I found out CBS was running the story; my mind was blown. I literally Googled my name and saw it pop up. That moment made me feel like I\u2019d found my niche,\u201d Charles said.<\/p>\n Charles, a Haitian American and first-generation college student from Broward County, credits his success to coursework and student organizations at FAMU, including SJGC and student media outlets such as Journey Magazine, The FAMUAN and 90.5 FM, the university\u2019s student radio station.<\/p>\n \u201cWorking in those spaces helped me understand the industry and sharpen my skills. Every environment pushed me to grow in a different direction,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n FAMU SJGC professor Clarence Fowler, who taught Charles in visual storytelling courses, said the national exposure came as no surprise, noting Charles\u2019 consistency and focus.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen he\u2019s locked into a story, he puts everything into it. He goes the extra mile to separate his work from what the average student might produce, and you can see that not only in his personal projects but also during his time as a digital content creator for the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering,\u201d Fowler said.<\/p>\n When Charles isn\u2019t reporting, he\u2019s building his personal brand as a photographer and videographer. He is preparing to launch his portfolio website and is expected to graduate in Fall 2026.<\/p>\n \u2014 New crib \u2014<\/p>\n Business is booming. And it has a new home.<\/p>\n This week, Florida State University kicked off 2026 with the grand opening of the Herbert Wertheim Center for Business Excellence.<\/p>\n The 218,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility near Gaines Street was made possible by a $65 million philanthropic investment from Herbert Wertheim, a billionaire optometrist, inventor, and founder of Brain Power Incorporated, the world\u2019s largest optical tint manufacturer. Wertheim was on hand for the ribbon-cutting.<\/p>\n \u201cI am standing here in front of all of you to say, \u2018Thank you to America.\u2019 (Thank you) for allowing me to have this opportunity to give back. It\u2019s not the finances; it\u2019s not the money. It\u2019s my heart that I give you. And education has made the difference in my life,\u201d Wertheim said.<\/p>\n The building is now the largest academic facility on FSU\u2019s Tallahassee campus. Construction began in October 2022, following more than a decade of efforts to secure funding for a new facility. The College of Business had been housed in the Rovetta Business Building and Annex since 1958 and 1984, respectively and had outgrown those spaces. With an estimated 10,000 students expected to pass through the building during the Spring semester, the timing proved right for a new home.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are thrilled to launch this new semester by letting our students and faculty experience the absolute grandeur of the Wertheim Center \u2014 named for someone who is the quintessential example of the American Dream,\u201d said FSU President Richard McCullough.<\/p>\n The College of Business is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, was recently named a top 10 \u201cBest College for Business in America\u201d by Niche and has officially opened its new home. Needless to say, it\u2019s been a big year.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is our legacy. This is our home. And together, we have laid the foundation for generations of students to dream, achieve and lead, and we\u2019re going to proudly do so as the world-renowned Herbert Wertheim College of Business,\u201d said Dean Michael Hartline.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve ever thought about earning a business degree \u2014 or already have an undergraduate degree from FSU \u2014 now might be the perfect time to check out the new crib and apply.<\/p>\n \u2014 Running greatness in 850 \u2014<\/p>\n If you\u2019re reading this in time, there may still be a chance to witness literal greatness \u2014 and literal Olympians.<\/p>\n Today, the World Athletics Cross Country Championships are taking place at Apalachee Regional Park. The world\u2019s best runners from the United States, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Spain, Great Britain, and beyond are competing across five championship races before an international audience. Roughly 450 of the world\u2019s top athletes are racing right here in the capital.<\/p>\n \u201cLeon County is proud to welcome the world to Apalachee Regional Park for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships. With hundreds of elite athletes from nearly 50 countries, this event will put Tallahassee-Leon County on the international stage and is expected to generate more than $4 million in local economic impact. We\u2019re honored to host \u2014 and committed to delivering an exceptional experience for athletes, fans and our community,\u201d said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban.<\/p>\n The world-renowned Florida A&M University Marching 100 will kick things off with the national anthem and perform throughout the event. A Fan Zone will also be open for spectators, featuring interactive games, food trucks, live music, photo booths, and a beer garden for those looking to enjoy the action and the atmosphere.<\/p>\n \u201cTallahassee stands ready to welcome the world for a truly historic event. Fans from near and far will experience world-class competition, unmatched energy, and the excitement of our destination in the spotlight on a global platform,\u201d said Visit Tallahassee Executive Director Kerri Post.<\/p>\n Tickets are $10, with free admission for children 12 and under. Gates open at 7:45 a.m., and the championship race begins at 9:45 a.m. What are you waiting for?<\/p>\n \u2014 Is This Primate Migration? \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s been a minute, but welcome back to the movie rundown. Time to return to the theater.<\/p>\n At the box office this weekend, James Cameron\u2019s \u201cAvatar: Fire and Ash\u201d pulled in $41 million \u2014 and despite the haters, has now crossed $1 billion worldwide. \u201cZootopia 2\u201d (or \u201cZootropolis\u201d overseas) brought in $19 million for the animated sequel, while \u201cThe Housemaid\u201d continued its thriller run with $15 million, pushing its global total past $120 million.<\/p>\n On to the new releases.<\/p>\n January is home to questionable horror drops, and this year\u2019s entry is \u201cPrimate,\u201d a film about a group of friends on vacation who are attacked by a pet monkey. Directed and co-written by Johannes Roberts (\u201c47 Meters Down,\u201d \u201cThe Strangers: Prey at Night\u201d), the film stars Oscar-winner Troy Kotsur (\u201cCODA,\u201d \u201cBlack Rabbit\u201d) and is (surprisingly) being received well so far. A 75% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.2 on IMDb, and 2.9 on Letterboxd is solid given the premise. Horror fans may be in for a treat, and a sub-90-minute runtime doesn\u2019t hurt.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Ron DeSantis announces Operation Tidal Wave conclusion after arrests, highlighting Florida law enforcement cooperation statewide. Image via X\/@GovRonDeSantis.<\/p>\n<\/a>Blaise Ingoglia stopped by to deliver a check to Dennis Lemma.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Seriously\u2026 move over.<\/p>\n<\/a>FLHSMV is touting a prosperous 2025.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Bear Creek Forest Florida Forever Project. Image via Lauren Yoho\/Wildpath\/FL DEP.<\/p>\n<\/a>J. Alex Kelly highlighted Florida\u2019s continued economic momentum in 2025.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Wastewater has to go somewhere.<\/p>\n<\/a>Keith Truenow and Johanna L\u00f3pez are making a bipartisan pitch this Session.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Turns out January is \u2018Move Over\u2019 month in more ways than one.<\/p>\n<\/a>Berny Jacques\u2019 bill would increase the time for the crime.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/a>Not pictured: A teacher.<\/p>\n<\/a>Everything was on the up and up last year at the Florida Housing Finance Corp.<\/p>\n<\/a>Michelle Rigoni and Ryan J. Dugan got the partner nod this week.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Big Bend Hospice will make tough moments a bit more bearable for families in Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf counties.<\/p>\n<\/a>Student journalist Jonathan Charles is emerging as one of the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication\u2019s rising voices. Image via FAMU.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>A ceremonial ribbon-cutting took place at the grand opening celebration of the FSU Herbert Wertheim College of Business. Image via Bill Lax\/FSU.<\/p>\n<\/a>Get out of bed and catch a glimpse of greatness. Image via Leon County.<\/p>\n