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<\/a><\/p>\nThey chose Sarasota as its home, believing the city would provide the perfect backdrop for an Italian-inspired art museum \u2014 a judgment history has been kind to.<\/p>\n
Fast forward to 2026. The Ringling is now Florida\u2019s official art museum and has shared stewardship with Florida State University for the past 25 years. This year marks the Silver Jubilee \u2014 a milestone worth celebrating, particularly at a time when the arts can feel undervalued.<\/p>\n
Over the last quarter century, FSU has led major restoration projects, expanded the estate, and significantly increased public access and engagement.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are grateful for the steadfast stewardship of The Ringling by Florida State University these past 25 years. Their support has allowed us to flourish and advance our mission to serve as the legacy of John and Mable Ringling and to inspire, educate, and entertain,\u201d said Steven High, Executive Director of The Ringling.<\/p>\n \u201cWe look forward to our continued partnership and success together in the years to come.\u201d<\/p>\n Since stewardship began, the museum has added 12,500 works to its collection \u2014 compared to just 8,000 previously \u2014 while growing its endowment from $4 million to $65 million. The Ca\u2019 d\u2019Zan, the Ringlings\u2019 historic mansion, was also fully restored in a $15 million effort.<\/p>\n \u201cToday, The Ringling is one of the largest university-based art museums in the U.S. It is a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration between the state, the university, and the vibrant Sarasota and Manatee communities \u2014 a partnership that preserves history, inspires learning, and keeps the arts alive for generations to come,\u201d said Jim Clark, Provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs at FSU.<\/p>\n The museum welcomes about 45,000 visitors annually and remains a public asset owned by all Floridians. FSU has also overseen construction of new visitor centers, on-site dining options, the Johnson-Blalock Education Center, the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for Asian Art \u2014 showcasing more than 3,000 years of history \u2014 and the Kolter-Coville Glass Pavilion, a standout collection of studio glass.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve never made the trip to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, you\u2019re missing out. Here\u2019s to another 25 years \u2014 and many more \u2014 of shared stewardship with FSU.<\/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 \u2014Take 5\u2014<\/p>\n Lean budget<\/a> \u2014 If preliminary comments from Sen. Ed Hooper and Rep. Lawrence McClure are an accurate indication, the next fiscal year budget will be anywhere from $1 billion to $4 billion less than the current fiscal year. That offers a glimmer of hope that a repeat of the 2025 Legislative Session\u2019s long overtime can be averted. The budget chiefs for their respective chambers for the second and final Legislative Session, Hooper and McClure will lead budget negotiations and largely control the state\u2019s purse strings. For now, at least, they seem largely in lockstep on reining in COVID-era spending levels. \u201cThere\u2019s no federal COVID money coming into the coffers,\u201d Hooper reminded. \u201cWe\u2019re now adjusting our expectations back to 2018\/2019 numbers.\u201d To put that into perspective, the approved budget that year was less than $89 billion. The current fiscal year\u2019s approved budget was more than $117 billion, about the same amount Gov. Ron DeSantis has called for in his proposed budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.<\/p>\n Who knows?<\/a> \u2014 House Speaker Daniel Perez opened the 2026 Legislative Session by casting the chamber\u2019s activities last year as a part of a necessary transition shaped by internal fights, bruising negotiations and a public rupture with Gov. DeSantis. The Miami Republican also used the moment to reflect on the volatility of the 2025 Session, when, in his telling, the House \u201cfound (its) voice\u201d and \u201cinsisted on our independence.\u201d On the most recent flashpoint, redistricting, the Governor this month called for a Special Session in April to redraw congressional lines \u2014 markedly later than when Perez views as ideal. As for what will happen with that undertaking and many other hot-button issues the Legislature faces this year, it\u2019s anyone\u2019s guess, the Speaker said. \u201cHonestly, I don\u2019t know what is going to happen,\u201d he said. \u201cThat\u2019s OK, because the journey is the best part.\u201d<\/p>\n Greatest hits<\/a> \u2014 In his final State of the State address as Governor, a defiant Ron DeSantis defended the controversial Hope Florida charity and proclaimed that he has delivered \u201cbig results\u201d during his time in office. \u201cWe have set the standard for the rest of the country to follow. We are the Free State of Florida,\u201d DeSantis said in his 30-minute speech addressing lawmakers on the opening day of the 2026 Session. DeSantis urged the Legislature to pass bills on illegal immigration, eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs, expanding gun rights and supporting the state\u2019s rural areas. \u201cMy message is simple. Get the bills to my desk,\u201d DeSantis said. \u201cIn the spirit of 1776, I\u2019m happy to put my John Hancock on those pieces of legislation.\u201d<\/p>\n Finally \u2026<\/a> \u2014 After months of deliberation, Lt. Gov. Jay Collins is officially entering the race for Governor. \u201cI\u2019m running for Governor because leadership is forged under pressure, not in soundbites. I served over 23 years in the United States military, mainly as a Green Beret, where accountability is real, decisions have consequences, and service comes before self. That experience shaped how I lead and why I believe public office is a public trust,\u201d Collins said in a Monday announcement. Collins has roughly $900,000 in his political committee, Quiet Professionals FL. These are credible fundraising levels for a Florida Senate race. That said, his entry into the race will find him competing for the Republican nomination against candidates with deeper war chests to date, at a time when questions have been raised about how strong the DeSantis political operation\u2019s fundraising is so late in his second term.<\/p>\n The boot<\/a> \u2014 DeSantis declined to renominate his once loyal ally, former House Speaker Jos\u00e9 Oliva, to an influential state Board that oversees Florida\u2019s public university system. In a press release sent out just before his State of the State address started Tuesday, DeSantis named four new appointments and two reappointments to the State University System\u2019s Board of Governors (BOG). Missing in the press release was any mention of Oliva, whose prior term ended Jan. 6. Oliva was a DeSantis defender who had even been rumored to be on DeSantis\u2019 list of Lieutenant Governor choices before DeSantis picked Collins. But Oliva clashed with DeSantis as the BOG voted on a new Chair in November.<\/p>\n \u2014 Rate relief rocks \u2014<\/p>\n This week, everyone\u2019s favorite former collegiate baseball player and Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, announced that massive statewide insurance rate relief is on the way for Florida homeowners.<\/p>\n The upcoming spring 2026 policy renewal will result in large premium reductions for Citizens Property Insurance (CPI) policyholders across Florida. On average, CPI policyholders are set to receive an 8.7% reduction.<\/p>\n \u201cFloridians are seeing rate reductions in both auto and homeowners insurance across the state, with additional relief coming soon. The reductions in Citizens Insurance rates are the most significant in recent memory. Premiums are lowering because we\u2019ve enacted real reforms and withstood the pressure to reverse course,\u201d DeSantis said.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will hold firm in our commitment not to go back to the broken insurance market of the past.\u201d<\/p>\n South Florida homeowners saw some of the biggest reductions. In Broward County, around 27,000 homes will see an average reduction of 14.1%, with Miami-Dade close behind at 14.0% for roughly 42,000 homes. Palm Beach County\u2019s 26,000 homes will receive an average reduction of 11.9%, while Monroe County\u2019s approximately 1,000 homes are seeing an average reduction of 11.3%.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are seeing nothing but good news across all data points for Florida\u2019s auto and home insurance markets,\u201d said Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky.<\/p>\n \u201cI am hopeful that these reforms will not be repealed and that we will continue to be dogged in our efforts to improve the everyday conditions for Floridians.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Uthmeier\u2019s Nassau notes \u2014<\/p>\n Attorney General James Uthmeier has issued a critical opinion stating that Nassau County cannot jack up impact-fee increases beyond the limits set by Florida law simply because its population has grown substantially over the past half-decade.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said in a news release that he received a request to examine potential additional impact fees amid growth in the First Coast county. Rep. Richard Gentry, a DeBary Republican, requested the Attorney General\u2019s opinion.<\/p>\n Nassau County has about 103,000 residents, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, representing roughly a 17% increase since 2020.<\/p>\n Nassau County Commissioners<\/a> approved impact-fee increases<\/a> in December, citing the rapid growth of the municipality as \u201cextraordinary circumstances.\u201d In some cases, which amounted to a 50% increase in impact fees over a four-year period, in multiple phases, according to a report in the Fernandina Observer<\/a>.<\/p>\n Florida law allows counties to increase impact fees beyond 50% if \u201cextraordinary circumstances\u201d exist. Impact fees are assessed by local governments on developers to offset the effects new buildings and developments have on local services, such as infrastructure, schools, and public safety.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said in his three-page opinion sent to Gentry that Nassau County does not meet the threshold for raising impact fees at the rate approved in December.<\/p>\n Gentry\u2019s Dec. 17 letter to Uthmeier argued that Nassau County\u2019s interpretation of the law was off base.<\/p>\n \u201cThe interpretation is deeply flawed,\u201d Gentry said bluntly.<\/p>\n Gentry added that his motivation for seeking the opinion was rooted in concern that counties could begin usurping the authority of the Legislature, which crafts state law.<\/p>\n \u201cNassau County\u2019s interpretation of this statute would undermine the Legislature\u2019s intent and open the door to arbitrary fee hikes statewide,\u201d Gentry wrote. \u201cI urge your office to confirm that Nassau County cannot lawfully exceed the statutory cap.\u201d<\/p>\n Uthmeier agreed with Gentry.<\/p>\n \u201cThe steady, albeit heightened, increase in population of 17% over the previous five years does not qualify as \u2018extraordinary circumstances,\u2019\u201d Uthmeier said.<\/p>\n \u2014 Sink or swim \u2014<\/p>\n Uthmeier announced that he has filed a lawsuit against major American competitive swimming organizations, alleging discrimination against women by allowing transgender competitors.<\/p>\n The legal action alleges that U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) and the Florida Association and Local Masters Swim Committee Inc., both regional affiliates of USMS, are \u201cdeceiving consumers by allowing men to compete in women\u2019s swimming events that are advertised as female-only.\u201d<\/p>\n Uthmeier published a statement on the lawsuit, which was filed in the 12th Judicial Circuit of Florida in Sarasota County.<\/p>\n \u201cMen have real physical advantages in strength, speed and endurance,\u201d Uthmeier said in the video statement posted on X<\/a>. \u201cWhen they\u2019re allowed into women\u2019s races, they take medals, rankings and opportunities away from female athletes who have trained for their entire lives for a fair shot.\u201d<\/p>\n USMS is based in Sarasota and is an athletic organization that promotes competitive swimming throughout the United States.<\/p>\n \u201cUSMS itself concedes that its policy still allows men who merely \u2018identify\u2019 or \u2018express\u2019 themselves as women to compete in women\u2019s swimming competitions. And importantly, the new policy does not actually prevent men who identify as women from earning recognition in women\u2019s swimming competitions,\u201d the 39-page lawsuit said.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said the policy violates Florida law.<\/p>\n \u201cU.S. Master\u2019s Swimming still advertises women\u2019s divisions while allowing men to compete in them. That is deceptive, and it violates Florida law,\u201d Uthmeier said in his recorded message. \u201cWe gave them the chance to fix it and they refused.\u201d<\/p>\n Uthmeier sent a written demand<\/a> in July to USMS asking that the organization block transgender athletes from competing in women\u2019s events.<\/p>\n \u2014 Pesky solicitors get popped \u2014<\/p>\n No more door-to-door soliciting for these pesky pests. Pun intended.<\/p>\n On Thursday, Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) shut down an illegal door-to-door pest control sales operation that was preying on Floridians.<\/p>\n The investigation found that 30 employees conducted unlicensed pest control activities. Mira Home LLC hired Grit Marketing LLC to conduct door-to-door sales and execute pest control contracts on their behalf. Mira Home also obtained Pest Control Identification Cards for independent contractors through Grit Marketing, all of which violated state law.<\/p>\n Mira Home LLC was fined $36,000, and Grit Marketing LLC has been banned from engaging in any pest control activity or sales in Florida after illegally soliciting more than 600 pest control contracts.<\/p>\n \u201cOne of my top responsibilities as Florida\u2019s Commissioner of Agriculture is protecting Florida\u2019s consumers, and that includes cracking down on illegal door-to-door sales operations and those operating outside the law. I encourage all Floridians to be wary of high-pressure, door-to-door sales tactics, to verify that a pest control company and its employees are properly licensed before signing any contract, and to report any suspicious activity to FDACS,\u201d Simpson said.<\/p>\n The violations occurred between March 3, 2025, and March 11, 2025, during which more than 600 pest control contracts were solicited on behalf of Mira Home, a licensed company. However, the independent contractors conducting the solicitations were not.<\/p>\n To further address issues like this, Simpson has proposed SB 290, the \u201c2026 Florida Farm Bill,\u201d which includes a provision allowing Floridians to officially post \u201cNo Commercial Solicitation\u201d signs at their homes or businesses. Which we can get behind. No more guilt-tripping from the Girl Scouts.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ingoglia\u2019s immigrant agenda \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s been a chilly past few days in the 850 \u2014 probably a sign that Session is officially kicking off this week (our condolences). With that, the Capitol crowd in Tallahassee is making sure legislative proposals are moving.<\/p>\n That includes Florida\u2019s Chief Financial Officer.<\/p>\n This week, CFO Blaise Ingoglia announced that SB 1380 and HB 1307 have been filed by Sen. Jonathan Martin and Rep. Berny Jacques on his behalf, aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration in Florida.<\/p>\n \u201cWe must continue the fight against illegal immigration and put an end to the harm that has come to law-abiding citizens at the hands of illegal immigrants who should have never been in our country in the first place. With this legislation, we will build on Florida\u2019s strong stance against illegal immigration, and we will create even more deterrents for illegal immigrants trying to enter our state,\u201d Ingoglia said.<\/p>\n Among the major highlights \u2014 or lowlights, depending on who you ask \u2014 the bills would prohibit commercial driver\u2019s license instruction and testing in any language other than English, remove illegal immigrants as covered employees under the Workers\u2019 Compensation statute, require companies to use E-Verify when submitting a Workers\u2019 Compensation claim, and bar illegal immigrant IDs from being used to access bank accounts at state-chartered financial institutions or to obtain cashier\u2019s checks.<\/p>\n The proposal would also require insurance companies to accept fault if an illegal immigrant they insure is involved in a car accident.<\/p>\n Ingoglia is making clear he is taking an aggressive posture on illegal immigration, aligning himself fully with ICE enforcement and putting those priorities into statute.<\/p>\n \u2014 ICE cold cash \u2014<\/p>\n ICE just keeps getting that sweet, cold cash from the Chief Financial Officer.<\/p>\n This week, CFO Ingoglia traveled to Winter Haven to award $1.7 million to support local law enforcement agencies assisting with immigration enforcement efforts. The Polk County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Hernando County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Sarasota County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Hardee County Sheriff\u2019s Office, and the Port Richey Police Department were among the recipients.<\/p>\n \u201cLocal law enforcement agencies throughout Florida work tirelessly to protect Floridians. Because of the crisis caused by reckless border policies of the Biden Administration, our local law enforcement agencies have stepped up to assist with immigration enforcement efforts and help to deport dangerous criminal illegal aliens out of our country. It is because of their efforts that Florida leads the nation in immigration enforcement. We must keep our foot on the gas to continue our efforts to protect Floridians from criminal illegal aliens,\u201d Ingoglia said.<\/p>\n The funding is made possible through 287(g) agreements and the State Board of Immigration Enforcement. Of the total, $1,006,985.10 went to the Polk County Sheriff\u2019s Office; $321,112.30 to the Hernando County Sheriff\u2019s Office; $283,389.68 to the Sarasota County Sheriff\u2019s Office; $135,560 to the Hardee County Sheriff\u2019s Office; and $32,850 to the Port Richey Police Department.<\/p>\n \u201cThe illegal immigration crisis has been a problem for far too long. Thanks to the efforts of our Governor and our CFO during his time as a legislator, we now have the resources necessary to support our federal partners,\u201d said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.<\/p>\n \u201cAs our deputies work to arrest and transport criminal illegal aliens, they must have the tools to do their job safely and effectively. I want to thank CFO Ingoglia for his dedication to prioritizing the needs of our deputies as they protect and serve the Polk County community.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 Distinguished service \u2014<\/p>\n U.S. District Judge Amanda Arnold Sansone has been named the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Federal Judicial Service Award, recognizing outstanding and sustained public service with a focus on support for pro bono legal work.<\/p>\n The award will be presented by Chief Justice Carlos G. Mu\u00f1iz during a Jan. 22 ceremony at the Florida Supreme Court, which will be livestreamed on Facebook<\/a>, WFSU: Gavel to Gavel<\/a> and the Florida Channel<\/a>.<\/p>\n Sansone, who serves on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa, was cited for her long-standing commitment to the judiciary, the legal profession, and the broader community. In addition to her courtroom duties, she has played a leading role in overseeing pro se law clinic programs, supporting the Federal Reentry Program, and promoting pro bono representation in prisoner cases.<\/p>\n The ceremony will also recognize pro bono contributions from individuals, law firms, voluntary bars, judicial circuits, and young lawyers\u2019 organizations.<\/p>\n \u2014 High school grad numbers high \u2014<\/p>\n Ladies and gentlemen, the numbers are in, and they are looking great for Florida high school students. In fact, the best ever \u2014 just don\u2019t look too closely at how much the bar has been lowered over the years.<\/p>\n This week, during the State of the State, DeSantis announced that Florida\u2019s high school graduation rate reached 92.2% for the 2024-25 school year. That marks the highest graduation rate in state history and a 2.5% increase from the year prior. Not too shabby.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s historic graduation rate reflects the power of Governor DeSantis\u2019 strong leadership, clear expectations, and unwavering commitment to student success. These achievements demonstrate what can be accomplished when we uphold rigorous standards, provide robust support to schools and prepare every student for success beyond graduation,\u201d said Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas.<\/p>\n Some of the raw numbers include a 5.6 percentage point increase for English Language Learners, up 13.3% since the 2021-22 school year; a 3.9% increase in graduation rates for African American students; a 2.6% increase for Hispanic students; and a 2.3% bump for students with disabilities.<\/p>\n Students classified as \u201ceconomically disadvantaged\u201d also saw a 3.3% increase, bringing the gain to 6.4% since the 2021-22 school year. Records have been broken. Let\u2019s see if they eventually crack 93%.<\/p>\n For more information about graduation rates and data, visit DOE\u2019s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 FDLE suicide research\u2014<\/p>\n Mental health is human health, and one commonly underserved area in mental health research involves active and former law enforcement and corrections professionals. Some significant developments have occurred on that front.<\/p>\n This week, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) announced the publication of its first peer-reviewed scholarly study aimed at advancing understanding of suicide trends among active and former law enforcement and corrections professionals.<\/p>\n The findings were published in Policing: An International Journal under the title \u201cMeasuring Suicide Among Active and Former Sworn Law Enforcement Personnel: A State Level, Proof of Concept Methodology,\u201d which was accepted on Nov. 17, 2025.<\/p>\n \u201cThis research represents a major step forward in understanding the full scope of this issue. By developing a method that other states can use, we are helping build the foundation for a more accurate and unified understanding of officer suicide nationwide,\u201d said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.<\/p>\n \u201cFor the first time, we can see a more complete picture of Florida\u2019s active and former certified officers who died by suicide, which is essential as we work to support the men and women who serve our state.\u201d<\/p>\n The research resulted in the first peer-reviewed method for accurately identifying suicides among former sworn officers, an area previously considered a blind spot. It also established a state-level approach to support nationwide reporting consistency, along with a framework for a national surveillance strategy should other states opt to participate in shared data collection.<\/p>\n \u2014 Moving forward \u2014<\/p>\n SB 54<\/a>, sponsored by Sen. Barbara Sharief, advanced this week through its second Committee stop in the Appropriations Committee on Criminal Justice.<\/p>\n The measure focuses on procedures tied to information collection and reporting following incidents of life-threatening violence. Among its provisions, the bill addresses medical examiner reporting requirements and expands training for certain public safety and school personnel related to substances that may affect cognitive function.<\/p>\n As written, the legislation also establishes new processes for documenting toxicology findings in cases involving suspected violent offenders and outlines when certain medical records may be shared with law enforcement. Additional sections require substance-related training for school safety specialists and safe-school officers.<\/p>\n SB 54 will now move on to its next Committee of reference \u2014 it had been slotted for Rules but is currently pending reference review. If ultimately approved by the Legislature, the bill would take effect July 1, 2026.<\/p>\n \u2014 Smithsonian strike strike strike\u2014<\/p>\n Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University continues to show what it means to raise the bar \u2014 not just as a student body or an HBCU, but as a community as a whole.<\/p>\n On Jan. 16, to celebrate the legacy of HBCUs, \u201cAt the Vanguard: Making and Saving History at HBCUs\u201d launched at the Smithsonian\u2019s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, D.C. The exhibition prominently showcases FAMU\u2019s history and selections from its archival collections, alongside materials from four other HBCUs: Clark Atlanta University, Jackson State University, Texas Southern University, and Tuskegee University.<\/p>\n \u201cThis exhibition honors the legacy of HBCUs as cultural and educational powerhouses. Through these collections from our partner institutions, we see the breadth of Black intellectual excellence, activism and artistic achievement, reinforcing the vital role HBCUs play in shaping American history,\u201d said the museum\u2019s acting director, Shanita Brackett, in an official release announcing the exhibition.<\/p>\n Since opening in 2016, the museum \u2014 which spans more than 400,000 square feet \u2014 has welcomed more than 13 million visitors. Among the FAMU artifacts on display is a vegetable garden program brochure from the 1960s tied to the FAMU Cooperative Extension Tractor Clinic, a project that helped meet the needs of local farmers through hands-on skills training and demonstrations.<\/p>\n One of the most notable items featured in the exhibition is a rare color video of inventor and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver, one of only a few such recordings known to exist.<\/p>\n The exhibition will remain open through July 19, 2026. More information about the exhibit is available here<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 FSU Day at Capitol\u2014<\/p>\n Planning on being at the Capitol this Wednesday? Well, good. Listen up \u2014 and go Noles.<\/p>\n Jan. 21 marks the annual \u201cFSU Day\u201d at the Capitol. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors are invited to explore exhibits from Florida State University\u2019s colleges, academic departments, and programs, with displays spread throughout the second- and third-floor rotundas of the Florida Capitol.<\/p>\n Be sure to step outside between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., when a pep rally will take place between the Old and New Capitol buildings. The rally will feature remarks from FSU President Richard McCullough, live performances by FSU\u2019s pep band, Seminole Sound, appearances by FSU cheerleaders, and plenty of crowd energy. For the fourth year in a row, Jeff Culhane will serve as the official master of ceremonies.<\/p>\n When activities at the Capitol wrap up, the celebration continues. As part of FSU\u2019s 175th anniversary, attendees can take part in the Legacy Walk, which will include free swag, a photo-op station, cupcakes, and special guests.<\/p>\n The night before, the FSU Office of Governmental Relations and the FSU Student Government Association will co-host \u201cSeminole Evening on Adams\u201d from 5 to 7 p.m. at Eve on Adams. The event is open to those interested in seeing FSU student leaders welcome attendees, state legislators, and other guests.<\/p>\n All events are free, open to the public, and garnet-and-gold attire is strongly encouraged. Be there \u2014 or be square. Or worse, an annoying Gator or Cane.<\/p>\n \u2014 Make Magnolia Dr. great again \u2014<\/p>\n Tallahassee drivers \u2014 your prayers have been answered, depending on your daily route.<\/p>\n On Friday afternoon, Magnolia Drive between Pontiac Drive and Diamond Street reopened as part of Phase II of the Magnolia Drive Multi-Use Trail Project.<\/p>\n The $9 million renovation, funded by the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency, includes new trail and sidewalk connections, improved lighting, upgraded underground utilities, and stormwater improvements designed to enhance safety and reliability.<\/p>\n \u201cReopening Magnolia Drive restores a critical connection for residents and commuters while delivering the safety upgrades and long-term infrastructure improvements. This project is about more than a roadway \u2014 it\u2019s about building a safer, more resilient South Magnolia corridor for everyone who travels it,\u201d said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban.<\/p>\n For Leon County, this marks just Phase II, with Phase III expected to follow. The next phase is slated to bring improvements from Diamond Street to Apalachee Parkway. As traffic returns, drivers are urged to remain alert for pedestrians and cyclists using the new sidewalks and paths, which may take some time to get used to.<\/p>\n \u201cWe truly appreciate the patience our neighbors have shown during the construction. Now that Magnolia Drive is open, our community benefits from a safer and more efficient corridor, especially for children on their way to school. Thank you for enduring the inconvenience; together, we\u2019ve paved the way for a safer future,\u201d said Leon County Vice Chair David O\u2019Keefe.<\/p>\n To learn more about the Magnolia Drive Multi-Use Trail Project, visit LeonCountyFL.gov\/Magnolia<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cThis project delivers meaningful improvements to the South Magnolia corridor: rebuilding the roadway while modernizing stormwater and underground utilities, and adding safer options for people walking and biking,\u201d said Leon County Administrator Vincent Long.<\/p>\n \u2014 Tallahassee creeper \u2014<\/p>\n Not a good look for a former Tallahassee resident, but a strong one for the justice system.<\/p>\n This week, officials announced that Gabriel Michael Stoelze, 26, of Port St. Lucie, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. Stoelze pleaded guilty in federal court to attempting to entice or persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity, distribution of child pornography, and receipt of child pornography.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is one of our highest duties to protect our children from the predations of sex offenders like this defendant, so I applaud the outstanding investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to identify and catch this offender,\u201d said John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, who announced the sentence.<\/p>\n \u201cMy office will continue to prosecute these sick individuals with the full force of the law and seek maximum punishment for their disgusting crimes to keep our children safe, both online and in our communities.\u201d<\/p>\n Court documents show that in 2024, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) received CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children based on information provided by social media platforms.<\/p>\n Records indicate that someone living in Tallahassee uploaded child pornography to social media servers while also sending files to other users. Investigators determined that Stoelze was communicating with users as young as 14 and attempting to arrange sexual encounters in person.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Tallahassee Police Department will continue to use every investigative tool available to protect children and uphold the safety of our community,\u201d said Lawrence Revell, Chief of the TPD.<\/p>\n Law enforcement later searched a residence and discovered evidence that Stoelze sent and received child pornography through an online application.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is no safe haven for anyone who preys on children. The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate these crimes, which inflict irreparable harm and lasting trauma to the victims. This case highlights the critical partnership between our agents and state law enforcement partners and ensures there is one less predator victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community,\u201d said Jason Carley, the FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge of the case.<\/p>\n When Stoelze is released from prison, he will be subject to a lifetime term of supervised release.<\/p>\n \u2014 Family Dollar Four busted\u2014<\/p>\n No need to fear \u2014 the \u201cFamily Dollar Four\u201d have been brought to justice.<\/p>\n This week, the TPD announced the arrest of four individuals from Texas in connection with a string of multi-state burglaries targeting Family Dollar stores across the South. The arrests were made in part using License Plate Reader (LPR) technology.<\/p>\n Robert Chalk, 23; Tyler Foster, 21; Daylon Malcom, 24; and Jylen William, 25, were charged with burglary of a structure (two counts), possession of burglary tools, and criminal mischief.<\/p>\n \u201cStaying vigilant and being able to quickly identify crime trends is essential to keeping our community safe. By leveraging technology, real-time data, and advanced investigative tools, our officers and detectives can identify patterns, share information quickly, and act decisively,\u201d said TPD Chief Revell.<\/p>\n \u201cThis case is a perfect example of how we can address problems head-on. Let this be a message: Tallahassee is not the place to come to commit crimes and then leave. Through a combination of technology, analytics, and strong partnerships, our officers, detectives, analysts, and partners will find you, and you will be held accountable.\u201d<\/p>\n On Jan. 12, TPD was notified by the Pensacola Police Department (PPD) of the burglary spree targeting Family Dollar locations. Working quickly with PPD, the Leon County Sheriff\u2019s Office, the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), and using LPR technology, officers took the suspects into custody after observing criminal activity and preventing them from leaving a parking lot.<\/p>\n \u2014 28 Years: The Rip\u2019s Wire \u2014<\/p>\n Off to the cinemas we go.<\/p>\n Coming in first this past weekend was \u201cAvatar: Fire and Ash,\u201d which scorched the box office with $22 million (yet haters still pretend people don\u2019t like these films), bringing its domestic total to $349 million. \u201cPrimate\u201d did decently for a January horror film, let alone one about a killer ape, and came in second with $11 million, and right behind with $11 million as well was \u201cThe Housemaid,\u201d which has slowly proved it had legs in this holiday season, now start of 2026. Word-of-mouth people \u2014 the biggest thing Hollywood can\u2019t predict.<\/p>\n Onto the new goods. Fans of the \u201c28 Days Later\u201d franchise didn\u2019t have to wait long. Last year, with the critical and financial success of \u201c28 Years Later,\u201d it wasn\u2019t shocking that the studio went through with the trilogy plans and released \u201c28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,\u201d which was filmed at the same time as the previous film and picks up right where the last one leaves off. Alex Garland returns as the writer (\u201cAnnihilation,\u201d \u201cCivil War,\u201d \u201cEx Machina\u201d) along with the cast of Jack O\u2019Connell, Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes, and Alfie Williams. But this time, director Nia DaCosta (\u201cCandyman,\u201d \u201cThe Marvels,\u201d \u201cHedda\u201d) is in the director\u2019s chair, not Oscar-winning Danny Boyle. Critics are loving it, though. 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, 7.8 on IMDB, and a 4.0 is really promising, especially for the fourth film in a franchise about zombies in the U.K.<\/p>\n On the visually striking side, but don\u2019t get it twisted, it\u2019s R-rated, is the animated film from Japan, \u201cAll You Need is Kill.\u201d The film follows a \u201cGroundhog Day\u201d- style time-loop plot about a young woman during an alien invasion, who keeps dying until she crosses paths with a shy young man stuck in the cycle, too. It\u2019s bloody, it\u2019s sci-fi, it\u2019s action-packed, and it\u2019s less than 90 minutes. Sitting at a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.6 on IMDB, and a 3.4 on Letterboxd, that\u2019s pretty good in our books.<\/p>\n For those looking for something a little bit more artistic or \u201ccinema\u201d-esque there\u2019s Oscar nominee Gus Van Sant\u2019s (\u201cGoodwill Hunting,\u201d \u201cMilk,\u201d \u201cElephant\u201d) \u201cDead Man\u2019s Wire\u201d which is true story about Tony Kiritsis when he took the president of a mortgage company hostage in 1977 with a sawed off shotgun wired with a \u201cdead man\u2019s wire\u201d from the trigger to Tony\u2019s neck. The film stars Darce Montgomery (\u201cStranger Things,\u201d \u201cElvis\u201d \u201cPower Rangers\u201d) Bill Skarsgard (\u201cIt,\u201d \u201cNosferatu,\u201d \u201cJohn Wick: Chapter 4\u201d) and Oscar winner Al Pacino (\u201cThe Godfather,\u201d \u201cSerpico\u201d \u201cDick Tracy\u201d). The film is being praised as Gus Van Sant\u2019s best work in years and is sitting at 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 7.0 on IMDb, and 3.5 on Letterboxd.<\/p>\n And for those staying at home watching the NFL playoffs this weekend, great choice, but maybe in between the games, you can check out \u201cThe Rip,\u201d the new Netflix action film from Oscar-winning duo Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. TheJoe Carnahan (\u201cSmokin\u2019 Aces,\u201d \u201cThe Grey,\u201d \u201cThe A-Team\u201d) co-written and directed movie is loosely based on a true story about a group of Miami cops that discover a stash of millions in cash which turns to distrust and hijinks. Portions of the film were actually filmed in Miami. Notable faces like Oscar nominee Steven Yeun (\u201cBeef,\u201d \u201cMinari,\u201d \u201cNope\u201d)Teyana Taylor (\u201cOne Battle After Another,\u201d \u201cA Thousand and One\u201d \u201cComing 2 America\u201d) and Emmy winner Kyle Chandler (\u201cFriday Night Lights,\u201d \u201cSuper 8,\u201d \u201cWolf of Wall Street\u201d) round out the cast. It\u2019s getting good reviews, especially for a streamer-released action film, with an 85% on Rotten Tomatoes (77% with audience) and a 3.4 on Letterboxd, which is more than respectable.<\/p>\n And if you\u2019re a big Game of Thrones fan, even after the disastrous 2019 ending, HBO just dropped another spin-off series in \u201cA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,\u201d which is set 1,000 years before the events of the critically acclaimed books and show. It has 87% on Rotten Tomatoes and drops on Sunday.<\/p>\n Happy watching.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/RM-1.1F-640x427.jpg\")
<\/a>Here\u2019s to another 25 years. Image via FSU.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KIR25002-Web-Ad-3-e1760498324308.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Updated-2026-PIFF-Market-Pulse-SunBurn-Ad-600x400-1.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/DeSanties-property-insurance-640x360.jpeg\")
<\/a>Property insurance bills will be a little less painful for some Floridians. Image via X\/@GovRonDeSantis.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/UTHMEIER-BLUE-GOOD-EDIT-Large-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Sorry, Nassau County \u2014 no increase for you.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/ecowater_ad.gif\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-16-at-6.18.03-PM-640x346.png\")
<\/a>James Uthmeier is going after USMS. Image via X\/@AGJamesUthmeier.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AdobeStock_423500466-640x427.jpeg\")
<\/a>Think twice, champ. Stock image via Adobe.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/policyproject_ad.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/ingoglia-copy-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Blaise Ingoglia\u2019s legislative priority landed sponsors in the House and Senate.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/cfo-with-sheriffs-holding-checks-640x409.jpg\")
<\/a>It\u2019s like Christmas in January! Image via X\/@CFOIngoglia.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/MAA-2502_EduRefresh_EmailSponsorship_LocalEcon_FL_600x400_Final.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/seniors_ad.gif\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/SANSONE-BLUE-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Congratulations to this year\u2019s Distinguished Federal Judicial Service Award winner.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Anastasios-Kamoutsas-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Florida\u2019s graduation rate hit another high.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/samsara_ad.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mark-Glass-ART-640x393.jpg\")
<\/a>FDLE\u2019s research is getting published in a major journal.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/heart_ad.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/sharief-640x324.jpeg\")
<\/a>Barbara Sharief\u2019s bill is moving through Committee.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/conservativescleanenergy_ad-1.gif\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1024x768_FAMU-Flame-640x480.jpg\")
<\/a>FAMU\u2019s getting some recognition in a new Smithsonian exhibit. Image via FAMU.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/fachc_ad.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/FSU-Day-2.1F-640x427.jpg\")
<\/a>Save the date \u2014 and have your garnet-and-gold garb at the ready.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/SadowskiSunburnBoxAd_1025-e1760570571357.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Magnolia-Drive-Trail-Phase-2-Map-640x495.jpg\")
<\/a>The phase-by-phase breakdown, courtesy of Leon County.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/sunrise_ad.jpeg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"U.S.](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/heekin-640x360.webp.webp\")
<\/a>John Heekin is getting creeps off the streets.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aarp_ad.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Family-Dollar-AP-640x426.webp.webp\")
<\/a>Welp, it\u2019s better than Dollar General Four\u2026 Image via AP.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/UBER_FL_insurance_600X400_010526.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/The-Bone-Temple-AP-640x427.webp.webp\")
<\/a>According to one reviewer, the new \u201928 Days Later\u2019 entry is \u2018bonkers and triumphant.\u2019 Image via AP.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/shutts_ad.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/CD-1.17.26-640x3978.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n