![\"\"](\"https:\/\/floridapolitics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2026_big_bend_bites_igfb.jpg\")
<\/a>Be there or be square.<\/p>\nThose attending the event are encouraged to donate meal boxes that include meat, dairy, produce and nonperishables to feed a family of four. The boxes will then be distributed at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis. About 1,000 families are expected to be served during the distribution window.<\/p>\n
\u201cSupporting families experiencing food insecurity is a core part of our mission and how we strive to serve families throughout the Tallahassee community. We are grateful for the community\u2019s support in hosting the largest Spring Break feeding event, helping meet the needs we know many students face during this time of year,\u201d said JLT President Vicki Bradley.<\/p>\n
The JLT was established in 1960 and is a women-led nonprofit organization that supports the basic needs of local children and families through community programs and volunteers providing food, clothing and shelter.<\/p>\n
The Big Bend Bites project was first hosted in March 2020, just before the COVID-19 shutdowns. The project is also the only communitywide program that specifically addresses child hunger during the Spring Break window.<\/p>\n
The goal is to provide enough food for a family of four to eat three meals a day during the seven-day break. Meals will be distributed until supplies run out.<\/p>\n
Media are encouraged to arrive between 7:30 a.m. and 8 a.m., when the event is expected to be busiest.<\/p>\n
For more information, visit JLTallahassee.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n So go ahead and donate some food if you can \u2014 and enjoy your Spring Break if you get one. Knowing North Florida\u2019s luck, though, a cold front will probably sweep in at the last minute and cancel any outdoor plans you had.<\/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 Overtime<\/a> \u2014 Everyone saw it coming, but now it\u2019s official: Session is going long. Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Ed Hooper said this week that budget talks are moving too slowly for lawmakers to adjourn Sine Die next Friday. Hooper told Florida Politics that it\u2019s \u201cpossible\u201d budget allocations could be finalized by the end of the 60-day Regular Session, but the full spending plan will not be completed in time.<\/p>\n DOA?<\/a> \u2014 The Senate passed a measure to create an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights, but the bill isn\u2019t expected to advance through the Legislature this Session since House Speaker Daniel Perez said he wants the federal government \u2014 not the states \u2014 to take the lead on AI reform, which is in line with President Donald Trump\u2019s stance. Under Sen. Tom Leek\u2019s bill, companion chatbot platforms must post pop-up reminders that they are AI at the beginning of an interaction and at least once every hour. The platforms must also remind users to log off and take a break. Parents would also be required to consent to minors\u2019 use of AI platforms. Governments would also be barred from entering into AI-related contracts with certain foreign countries, such as China and Russia.<\/p>\n Unanimous<\/a> \u2014 Years after escaping an abusive relationship with her daughter and little else, Lake Worth Beach Democratic Rep. Debra Tendrich passed legislation in the House designed to protect other domestic violence survivors. House members approved the bill (HB 277) by a 112-0 vote. All those present added their names as co-sponsors to the measure, which promises to be signature legislation for the first-term lawmaker. HB 277 will now cross the rotunda and be taken up in the Senate, where its companion (SB 682) by Miami Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud awaits a floor vote after clearing all three Committees to which it was referred.<\/p>\n On hold<\/a> \u2014 After opposition from several members, the Senate has temporarily postponed a bill (SB 354) from Sen. Stan McClain that creates a framework supporters say better aligns growth, conservation and infrastructure planning. It would establish \u201cBlue Ribbon\u201d projects, which would apply to landowners who control or own at least 15,000 contiguous acres, an increase from the 10,000 acres originally included in the bill. Despite the Senate\u2019s postponement, the bill is not yet dead. A House version of the bill (HB 299) from Rep. Lauren Melo cleared its final Committee last week and also now awaits a floor vote on the House second-reading calendar, meaning either the Senate or House versions could still come back up.<\/p>\n Brake check<\/a> \u2014 The Senate is pumping the brakes on an effort that would transfer the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus to New College of Florida. The Senate Appropriations Committee adopted a \u201cdelete everything\u201d amendment to HB 5601, stripping the bill of all substantive language before reporting it favorably. The campus transfer proposal has been a central flashpoint in budget negotiations, with the House backing a plan aligned with Gov. Ron DeSantis to transfer all USF Sarasota-Manatee property and facilities to New College by July 1, but added a proposal to also shift an additional $22.47 million in recurring funding from USF to New College to the plan. The Senate has resisted that funding shift, creating a divide between the chambers. Sources have warned that the additional funding transfer could jeopardize the broader property deal, with USF leadership arguing that losing those funds would threaten current students and employee salaries.<\/p>\n \u2014 Turn it up, Panhandle \u2014<\/p>\n Time to party it up on the Emerald Coast like it\u2019s Spring Break because cha-ching!<\/p>\n This week, DeSantis announced that more than $13 million has been awarded to the Panama City-Bay County Airport and Industrial District, the City of Port St. Joe and the Gulf County Board of County Commissioners \u2014 all through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, which supports workforce and infrastructure needs in the aerospace, aviation and maritime industries.<\/p>\n \u201cSince 2019, the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund has facilitated the creation of more than 42,000 new jobs and 32,000 workforce education opportunities throughout our state. Thanks to strategic investments like these, Florida is now the No. 1 state in the nation for workforce education \u2014 five years ahead of the goal we had set in 2019,\u201d said DeSantis.<\/p>\n The Panama City-Bay County Airport and Industrial District is receiving $5 million to help construct a 160,000-square-foot aircraft engine repair station and engine testing facility at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, which is expected to add 400 new technician jobs in Bay County.<\/p>\n The City of Port St. Joe is getting $2,250,709 for a two-phase road project set to support the creation of 177 workforce homes. The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners is being awarded $6 million to build a self-docking floating dry dock at the shipyard through a set of mooring dolphins, which is expected to add 337 new jobs.<\/p>\n \u201cThese investments will put Bay County, Gulf County and the City of Port St. Joe in a better position to attract new job creators to the area while also supporting job seekers in Florida\u2019s great northwest,\u201d said J. Alex Kelly, Florida\u2019s commerce secretary.<\/p>\n Since 2019, the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund has awarded more than $318 million to communities across the state and helped create more than 42,000 new jobs.<\/p>\n \u2014 Multi-county crackdown \u2014<\/p>\n More than 500 illegal gaming machines were seized at 39 locations in an investigation launched by Attorney General James Uthmeier.<\/p>\n The two-day sting operation last week cracked down on illegal gambling outfits in four counties. A total of 525 illegal gambling machines and $190,000 in illicit gambling proceeds were seized in the law enforcement operation spanning Volusia, Brevard, Duval and Flagler counties.<\/p>\n \u201cUnlawful gambling operations often play a role as the financial backing behind criminal networks,\u201d Uthmeier said in a news release. \u201cThese illegal casinos fuel organized crime, prostitution and other illicit activities. Florida will see a major statewide crackdown on illegal gaming in 2026. If you\u2019re running an illegal operation, don\u2019t roll the dice; shut it down now.\u201d<\/p>\n The investigation was a joint operation between the Florida Gaming Control Commission, Uthmeier\u2019s Office of Statewide Prosecution, and the Volusia County, Flagler County, Brevard County and Jacksonville Sheriff\u2019s offices.<\/p>\n Illegal machines were found in restaurants, bars, gas stations, bogus arcades and some standalone illegal casinos. Some of those outlets were masquerading as other businesses, such as nail salons and beauty supply stores. The illegal gaming machines included slot machines, personal computer slot machines, tabletop machines, coin-push machines and fish table machines.<\/p>\n \u201cThis successful operation sends a clear message that organized criminal activity has no place in Florida,\u201d said T.K. Waters, Jacksonville Sheriff. \u201cI\u2019m grateful for the strong partnership between our agency, the Attorney General\u2019s Office, and our regional law enforcement partners because by working together, we\u2019ve made Duval County and the State of Florida a safer place.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Florida Farm Bill \u2014<\/p>\n Shoutout to the farmers for feeding us all. Hopefully, this will go a long way for you all.<\/p>\n This week, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson praised the Florida Legislature for passing SB 290, the Florida Farm Bill, sponsored by Sen. Keith Truenow and Rep. Danny Alvarez, which aims to support Florida farmers, ranchers and growers through new initiatives across the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services\u2019 jurisdiction while helping protect natural resources and working lands.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Florida Legislature passing the 2026 Florida Farm Bill is a major victory for Florida farmers and Florida families,\u201d Simpson said. \u201cTogether, we\u2019re strengthening the backbone of Florida\u2019s economy and ensuring our state remains a place where freedom, family and farmers can thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n If signed into law, the Florida Farm Bill would allow the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to defend farmers\u2019 use of gasoline-powered farm and lawn care equipment, make it easier to protect natural lands from development, help improve road safety through driver testing, and make the Farmers Feeding Florida Program permanent. The program directs fresh Florida agricultural products to food banks for those in need.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s agriculture industry is the foundation of our economy and our way of life. The 2026 Florida Farm Bill, thanks to the leadership of Commissioner Simpson, ensures that Florida continues to protect and support that foundation while also strengthening public safety, defending property rights, and keeping government out of the way of hardworking Floridians,\u201d Truenow said.<\/p>\n Another key element of SB 290 establishes a loan-repayment program that reimburses up to $25,000 per year to veterinarians who treat food animals in Florida. Supporters say the program would strengthen the agricultural workforce and food security.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you focus on Florida, freedom and our farmers, you\u2019re on the right path, and that\u2019s exactly what the 2026 Farm Bill delivers. For the fourth year in a row, I was proud to partner with Commissioner Simpson on this year\u2019s Farm Bill, because we both know that protecting those three pillars is what keeps Florida strong, secure and truly special,\u201d Alvarez said.<\/p>\n \u2014 Timbaland \u2014<\/p>\n The more protected rural working acres, the better. It\u2019s part of what makes Florida, Florida.<\/p>\n This week, Agriculture Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS announced that approximately 2,600 acres of working Florida agricultural land are being protected through the department\u2019s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.<\/p>\n Thayendanegea Timber in Baker County and Land West Holdings in Gilchrist County are the recipients.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s working agricultural lands are part of our heritage, and it\u2019s our responsibility to protect them. I am proud to announce another win for Florida through our Rural and Family Lands Protection Program today. We are permanently protecting nearly 2,600 acres of productive timberland to ensure it stays in private hands and continues working for Florida families,\u201d Simpson said.<\/p>\n \u201cThese easements protect private property rights, keep government from owning and managing more land, and ensure Florida families can continue producing the food, fiber, wildlife habitat and economic opportunity that fuel our state.\u201d<\/p>\n Thayendanegea Timber is a 1,685-acre timber property preserved through a $3,706,000 easement, with $1,853,000 provided through the Natural Resources Conservation Service\u2019s Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The land\u2019s primary agricultural practice is silviculture and includes wetlands that provide a riparian buffer to Cedar Creek, which runs through the property.<\/p>\n Land West Holdings is a 910-acre timberland operation preserved through two separate rural lands protection easements totaling $2,408,000, with $525,250 provided through the Natural Resources Conservation Service\u2019s Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The land includes wetlands, large basin marshes and forested swamps that support pine plantations.<\/p>\n Since 2001, the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program has preserved 230,000 acres of working Florida land.<\/p>\n \u2014 Oscars who? \u2014<\/p>\n Fire burning on the dance floor? Or at the Old Capitol?<\/p>\n This week, he skipped the photo op because the biggest DOGE enthusiast you know, Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia, was in Tallahassee and made the sizzling announcement of the 2025 Fire Service Award winners.<\/p>\n The annual awards are a top honor given to firefighters across Florida in conjunction with the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association, the Florida Fire Service Association, the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association, the Florida Fire Training Directors Association, and the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association.<\/p>\n \u201cI was proud to recognize some of the extraordinary firefighters who answer the call and run toward danger, while others run away. Their courage, sacrifice and dedication to protecting Floridians is truly unmatched. As State Fire Marshal, I want to thank these firefighters for their exceptional work to keep our communities safe every single day,\u201d Ingoglia said.<\/p>\n The brave Floridians who put their health on the line, seize the moment, and quite literally run headfirst into a burning building deserve our utmost respect.<\/p>\n The Fire Service winners of 2025 are as follows:<\/p>\n \u2014 Reginald McKnight Jr \u2014 Fire Service Instructor of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Brent Stevens \u2014 Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Harold Theus \u2014 Fire Chief of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Karl Hook \u2014 Volunteer Firefighter of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Ron Huguenin \u2014 Professional Firefighter of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Jefferson Mendal \u2014 Career Firefighter of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Cathie Perkins \u2014 Chad Reed Emergency Manager of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 North Collier Training Center \u2014 Training Center of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Adam Chrisman \u2014 Fire and Life Safety Educator<\/p>\n \u2014 Armando Nodal \u2014 Forestry Firefighter of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Thomas Fucci \u2014 Fire Investigator of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Sandra Thomas \u2014 Fire Inspector of the Year<\/p>\n \u2014 Rodney Kwiatkowski \u2014 Fire Marshal of the Year<\/p>\n A big thank you to everyone listed above who helped make Florida safer in 2025. And to those not selected, we\u2019re sure you were snubbed.<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 Gamble for America \u2014<\/p>\n Who said getting a little gamble on couldn\u2019t be patriotic?<\/p>\n This week, the Florida Lottery announced a new set of special scratch-off games, \u201cAMERICA 250 FLORIDA,\u201d billed as a way to play while celebrating the enduring spirit of freedom and opportunity associated with America and Florida.<\/p>\n The games feature three themes: \u201cFind Your Own Fountain of Youth,\u201d \u201cGulf of America,\u201d and \u201cFree State of Florida,\u201d each drawing on Florida\u2019s history and its ties to the nation\u2019s founding story.<\/p>\n \u201cAMERICA 250 FLORIDA is more than a game; it\u2019s a celebration of our nation\u2019s history and the opportunities that define the American experience. This game honors the spirit of perseverance and pride that has shaped our country for 250 years while continuing the Lottery\u2019s mission of supporting education and communities across Florida,\u201d said Acting Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald Dixon.<\/p>\n The new tickets offer the classic scratch-off experience with a chance to win $250 through a special prize feature. The top prize is $1 million. More than 3.9 million tickets offering a prize are available, with overall odds of winning at 1 in 4.01.<\/p>\n \u201cNo other state in the nation is doing more to celebrate America\u2019s founding than Florida. As Chair of the America250FL Commission, I am grateful to the Florida Lottery for bringing the America250FL celebration to their scratch-off games, which attract millions of players each year,\u201d said Secretary of State Cord Byrd.<\/p>\n Scratch-off tickets accounted for 74% of Florida Lottery ticket sales in the 2024-25 fiscal year and have awarded more than $70.8 billion in prizes since their creation.<\/p>\n \u2014 Just call an Uber \u2014<\/p>\n You know the expression: \u201cDrive sober or get pulled over.\u201d Simple, but true, and a statement that saves lives.<\/p>\n This March, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and its Florida Highway Patrol division are reminding motorists to be responsible drivers this month \u2014 and every month \u2014 through the \u201cNever Drive Impaired\u201d campaign.<\/p>\n The agencies are emphasizing the dangers of impaired driving while increasing patrols aimed at preventing crashes caused by impaired motorists.<\/p>\n \u201cImpaired driving is a choice that puts lives at risk, and the consequences are far too real for far too many Florida families. Every one of us has a responsibility to prevent these tragedies before they happen. Through the \u2019Never Drive Impaired\u2019 campaign, we are reminding drivers that safety begins long before they start the car,\u201d said Executive Director Dave Kerner.<\/p>\n \u201cPlan ahead, make responsible decisions, and remember that you only have one life\u2014protect it.\u201d<\/p>\n Drinking and driving continues to be the leading factor in impaired-driving crashes, injuries and fatalities throughout the state. Over the past five years, alcohol has accounted for 84.4% of impaired-driving crashes, 80.7% of impaired-driving injuries and 35.7% of impaired-driving fatalities. DUI and open container violations also historically increased during the four weeks of March, possibly due to Spring Break and March Madness.<\/p>\n \u201cEvery day, our troopers encounter situations that could have been prevented with one responsible decision to not get behind the wheel while impaired. Whether the impairment is caused by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, the result can be life-changing in an instant. We urge every driver to recognize the responsibility they carry each time they start their vehicle,\u201d added FHP Colonel Gary Howze.<\/p>\n \u201cEvery safe choice behind the wheel protects a family, a community and a future that cannot be replaced.\u201d<\/p>\n As the tagline in the campaign says, remember: \u201cYou only have one life\u201d \u2014 and that applies to everyone else on the road, too.<\/p>\n \u2014 Big 5 rate change \u2014<\/p>\n As gas prices climb amid conflict, Floridians may see some relief on another major auto expense.<\/p>\n This week, the Office of Insurance Regulation and Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky announced that Progressive, Berkshire Hathaway\u2019s GEICO, State Farm, Allstate and USAA, which together make up about 78% of Florida\u2019s auto insurance market, are indicating an average rate change of about -8%.<\/p>\n \u201cThe historic legislative reforms continue to drive auto insurance rates down \u2014 with nearly 80% of Florida\u2019s auto policyholders seeing lower rates for 2026. Florida\u2019s top five auto writers are already indicating an -8% rate change for 2026, with one group even indicating an -16.5% rate change. This is great news, and we anticipate this trend to continue for the auto market,\u201d Yaworsky said.<\/p>\n The rate changes are being attributed in part to increased confidence and stability in the market following recent legislative reforms, which supporters say have contributed to steady rate reductions over the past two years.<\/p>\n \u201cOnce again, policyholders are saving money and benefiting from Florida\u2019s historic tort reforms. Florida has laid out the blueprint for successful insurance reform, and we are continuing to see the difference it is making for Florida families and their wallets. As CFO, I will continue to work with Commissioner Yaworsky to ensure that announcements like this continue,\u201d added Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia.<\/p>\n In both 2024 and 2025, Florida posted the lowest personal auto liability loss ratio in the nation. The 2025 figure came in at 52.5%, the lowest recorded in Florida in the past 15 years.<\/p>\n \u2014 Off to the desk \u2014<\/p>\n We\u2019ve all seen the classic Schoolhouse Rock video, so we know the next stop after a bill passes the House and the Senate.<\/p>\n This week, Rep. Tom Fabricio and Sen. Tom Leek praised the passage of legislation (HB 883\/SB 990) updating Florida\u2019s insurance framework by creating and regulating protected cell captive insurance companies. Both released statements following the bill\u2019s passage.<\/p>\n The bills would expand Florida law\u2019s definition of a captive insurance company \u2014 a shared insurance company in which multiple businesses can insure themselves in legally separate \u201ccells\u201d without affecting one another \u2014 to include protected cell captive insurance companies, establishing a framework for their formation and operation in the state.<\/p>\n \u201cHB 883 positions Florida as a national leader in innovative and responsible risk management solutions. By authorizing protected cell captive insurance companies, we are creating a structured and secure environment for businesses to manage risk efficiently while maintaining strong regulatory safeguards,\u201d Fabricio said.<\/p>\n If signed into law, the legislation would restrict coverage issued by protected cell captive insurance companies, create minimum capital, net asset and surplus requirements, and establish detailed standards for the formation and licensure of the companies.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s insurance marketplace must remain competitive, transparent, and financially sound. This legislation strengthens our regulatory framework, enhances economic development opportunities, and ensures that businesses operating in Florida have access to sophisticated risk management tools within a well-defined legal structure,\u201d Leek added.<\/p>\n The bill would also authorize the combination of assets of different protected cells and establish clear procedures for pleadings and legal actions involving those cells.<\/p>\n \u2014 Learn now; college later\u2014<\/p>\n Jumping headfirst into the deep end can be scary, especially without a lifeguard nearby just in case.<\/p>\n Earlier this week in Monticello, Rep. Allison Tant partnered with Jefferson County Schools and the Children\u2019s Home Society of Florida to hold the first-ever Career and Academic Planning Night for Jefferson K-12 schools.<\/p>\n The event reflects Tant\u2019s own legislation \u2014 HB 417: Career and Academic Planning for Middle and High School Students \u2014 which would require School Districts to provide easily accessible annual information on academic and career pathways to Florida eighth graders and their families.<\/p>\n \u201cThis was a preview of what my bill would look like in action and why it is so badly needed. So many students have no idea that Bright Futures scholarships can be applied to career education. The money is already there from the Legislature. We just need to do a better job of making sure students know about it,\u201d Tant said.<\/p>\n The first portion of the event featured presentations from the Florida Department of Education\u2019s Office of Student Financial Aid, Xello and various school guidance counselors on how to plan careers, tap into local scholarships and use Bright Futures for either academic or Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.<\/p>\n All participants received a free dinner courtesy of Share Your Heart North Florida and free desserts prepared by students from Keiser University\u2019s culinary education program.<\/p>\n \u201cFor too many families, college or career remains out of reach,\u201d Tant added.<\/p>\n \u201cBy reaching our children while they are still in 8th grade, they can get a head start on career planning before it\u2019s too late.\u201d<\/p>\n After the presentations, students and their families strolled from exhibit to exhibit and table to table, meeting with a variety of local career planning organizations, colleges and potential employers, including CareerSource North Florida, North Florida College and Keiser University\u2019s Tallahassee campus.<\/p>\n \u2014 VA shakedown \u2014<\/p>\n Bon voyage, see you in a few years!<\/p>\n This week, John Heekin, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced Anthony Brewer, 47, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after he previously pleaded guilty to theft of government property valued at more than $50,000.<\/p>\n Court documents revealed that Brewer agreed to serve as a fiduciary in the Department of Veterans Affairs\u2019 fiduciary program, managing the monetary benefits of an individual who was unable to manage their own finances to help with care, support, health, welfare, comfort and other needs of the beneficiary. But Brewer went on to misuse and steal VA funds from Oct. 7, 2020, to Jan. 9, 2023.<\/p>\n \u201cThis defendant abused his position of trust to financially benefit himself by illegally diverting money that was intended to support one of our brave military veterans, and this prison sentence ensures he is held accountable for his selfish, criminal conduct,\u201d stated United States Attorney Heekin.<\/p>\n \u201cOur military veterans deserve our respect and gratitude, and my office will ensure they receive the government benefits they have earned through their sacrifice and service by aggressively prosecuting anyone who tries to steal the U.S. government moneys intended for their support.\u201d<\/p>\n Brewer has been ordered to pay $53,567 in restitution, and his sentence will run consecutively to a State of Florida prison sentence he is currently serving.<\/p>\n The case resulted from an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and its Criminal Investigations Division.<\/p>\n \u201cThis sentence holds the defendant accountable for defrauding a vulnerable beneficiary who was incapable of managing their finances,\u201d said David Spilker, Special Agent in Charge with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General\u2019s Southeast Field Office.<\/p>\n \u201cVA fiduciary roles require high integrity and trust, and the VA OIG is committed to rigorously investigating those who exploit veterans and their families.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Pretty Sentiment-al \u2014<\/p>\n Confidence in the economy among Floridians has ticked up for three straight months.<\/p>\n Consumer sentiment survey results published by University of Florida researchers showed that overall consumer confidence increased in February. The consumer sentiment index rose from 76.9 in January<\/a> to 79.3 in February.<\/p>\n \u201cFebruary marks the third consecutive month of improvement in consumer sentiment. While both current conditions and future expectations strengthened, the increase was driven primarily by more optimistic views regarding the national economic outlook over the next year,\u201d said Hector H. Sandoval, Director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF\u2019s Bureau of Economic and Business Research.<\/p>\n \u201cThese positive expectations align with recent economic developments, including easing inflation and a stabilizing unemployment rate, which could allow for further interest rate cuts in the near term following the pause at the end of January.\u201d<\/p>\n Looking at some survey components, perceptions of personal finances compared to a year ago rose from 73 in January to 75.1 in February. Opinions about whether Floridians consider now to be a good time to buy big-ticket household items, such as appliances, increased from 66.2 in January to 69 last month.<\/p>\n Expectations about personal finances in the next year increased from 88.6 to 89.9. The outlook for U.S. economic conditions in the next 12 months surged from 78.4 to 82.5, the largest gain among the components. Views on U.S. economic conditions over the next five years rose from 78.4 to 80.2.<\/p>\n \u2014 A big \u201cThank You\u201d for Tally \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s the little things in life, like giving back or volunteering with no motives or payment in mind. And students at Tallahassee\u2019s schools did just that.<\/p>\n On Saturday, Feb. 21, more than 1,100 students from Florida State University, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee State College gathered for \u201cThe Big Event Tallahassee,\u201d an initiative guided by the tagline: \u201cA Thank You to Tallahassee.\u201d<\/p>\n The service project sees students assisting nonprofit organizations, businesses and residents with a variety of tasks, no matter how big or small \u2014 cleaning, repairs, painting and whatever each student brings with their expertise.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Big Event Tallahassee is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Not only does it bring students from FSU, FAMU and TSC together, but it also creates meaningful connections between our students and the broader Tallahassee community,\u201d said Stormy McGivern, director of the FSU Office of Student Organizations and Involvement.<\/p>\n In the Fall, a smaller, similar event titled \u201cThe Little Event\u201d (go figure) does the same thing and saw more than 600 students help 40 sites. This Spring, 55 locations were assisted throughout Tallahassee, including schools, local businesses, nonprofits and personal residences.<\/p>\n \u201cInvesting in the place you call home during your college years is invaluable, and it\u2019s inspiring to watch students learn about Tallahassee while making a positive impact. We\u2019re incredibly proud of The Big Event RSO for earning national recognition as the Most Improved Big Event at this year\u2019s One Big Thanks Conference,\u201d McGivern added.<\/p>\n Students can sign up individually or with a group, and before the event starts, the registered student organization and Fraternity and Sorority Life organization with the most participants wins the top prize, the \u201cGolden Shovel.\u201d<\/p>\n This year\u2019s RSO winner was the Florida Beta chapter of Alpha Epsilon Delta, and the FSL winner was the Delta Lambda chapter of Beta Theta Pi. Congratulations to them both for their work in the Tallahassee community.<\/p>\n The Big Event started as a small gift of gratitude in 1982 at Texas A&M University and has since grown into a nationwide volunteer event for colleges and universities.<\/p>\n \u2014 Leader of colleges \u2014<\/p>\n Higher education is a powerful tool that can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. And it\u2019s key for schools to help level the playing field for all their students.<\/p>\n Tallahassee State College was re-certified as an Achieving the Dream \u201cLeader College of Distinction,\u201d a national recognition for community colleges that demonstrate strong results in advancing student success and closing equity gaps.<\/p>\n Achieving the Dream is a nationwide nonprofit that has partnered with more than 300 community colleges to support students from enrollment through graduation and career success.<\/p>\n \u201cTallahassee State College is deeply committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. Being re-certified as a Leader College of Distinction reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff and our continued focus on implementing strategies that help students achieve their academic and career goals,\u201d said TSC President Jim Murdaugh.<\/p>\n In 2009, TSC was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College and in 2022 earned its first Leader College of Distinction designation, along with the Leah Meyer Austin Award, which recognizes institutions demonstrating significant improvements in student outcomes.<\/p>\n \u201cBy using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes, strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network, reflecting the focus, discipline, and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional change,\u201d said Karen A. Stout, President and CEO of Achieving the Dream.<\/p>\n Big ups for TSC and all the students who benefit from the school\u2019s efforts to close equity gaps.<\/p>\n \u2014 Charge on Tally \u2014<\/p>\n As the NFL\u2019s Los Angeles Chargers say: bolt up.<\/p>\n Next weekend, the City of Tallahassee will host the Florida Municipal Electric Association\u2019s 2026 Florida Lineman Competition from March 13-14 at Apalachee Regional Park. The event is free and open to the public.<\/p>\n The event will showcase the best of Florida\u2019s public power companies in its 25th year of friendly competition. Electric utility lineworkers and apprentices from municipal utilities across the state will take part in challenges demonstrating technical skills and safety practices while being timed. The events are inspired by real-world scenarios such as pole climbs, equipment repair and system troubleshooting.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are thrilled to welcome municipal utilities from around the state to Tallahassee! This competition provides excellent training opportunities to reinforce the skills our lineworkers use every day while serving our community. It also strengthens relationships with partner utilities, which is critical when providing or receiving mutual aid,\u201d said Tony Guillen, general manager of the City of Tallahassee Electric and Gas Utility.<\/p>\n \u201cWe encourage our community to come out and see firsthand the dedication, expertise and teamwork it takes to keep the lights on and our city powered every single day.\u201d<\/p>\n The City of Tallahassee has won 59 overall trophies at the Florida Lineman Competition, the most of any participating utility. In addition to the competitions, food trucks and vendors will be on-site throughout the day for attendees.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are incredibly excited to celebrate the 25th year of the Florida Lineman Competition and to bring together so many lineworkers from across our public power communities,\u201d said Amy Zubaly, Executive Director of the Florida Municipal Electric Association.<\/p>\n \u201cThis event is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the exceptional skill, precision and professionalism that define linework, all within a controlled environment that places safety at the forefront. Just as importantly, it highlights the strong sense of brotherhood within the trade \u2014 the same spirit of teamwork and trust that keeps our communities powered every day.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Hoppers: The Immortal Bride! \u2014<\/p>\n This past weekend at the box office, \u201cScream 7\u201d smashed all projections and opened to a $64 million debut, the largest ever for the series despite its overwhelmingly negative reviews. \u201cGOAT\u201d continues to have box-office hooves, raking in $12 million, and \u201cWuthering Heights\u201d looms at third place with $6.7 million.<\/p>\n Oscar nominee, and the frontrunner to win Best Actress at the Oscars in a week for \u201cHament,\u201d Jessie Buckley stars in \u201cThe Bride!\u201d along with Oscar winner Christian Bale, Oscar nominee and 90s icon Annette Bening in this modern retelling of the classic WB monster movie \u201cThe Bride of Frankenstein\u201d \u2014 because between this and Guillermo Del Toro, Frankenstein is so in right now. Oscar nominee and actress Maggie Gyllenhaal writes and directs this flashy dark comedy\/romance, which, according to the trades, was haunted by reshoots and studio notes. A 60% on Rotten Tomatoes (64% audience), 6.1 on IMDB, and a 3.1 on Letterboxd proves for an OK time, possibly, but it seems like it might be a love-it-or-hate-it type of picture.<\/p>\n \u201cHoppers\u201d is Disney-Pixar\u2019s new film directed and co-written by Emmy nominee Daniel Chong of Cartoon Network\u2019s \u201cWe Bare Bears\u201d fame. It stars recognizable voices in Bobby Moynihan from SNL and Emmy winner\/TV legend Jon Hamm. It follows the plot of James Cameron\u2019s \u201cAvatar\u201d in a family-friendly way, where technology allows an animal-loving 19-year-old to enter her consciousness into a robotic beaver and hang out with animals. The film is being praised for its humor and heart and has a 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 7.7 on IMDB, and a 3.8 on Letterboxd.<\/p>\n Back in 2024, fans of the critically acclaimed cult-classic Netflix show \u201cPeaky Blinders\u201d by Oscar-nominated writer Steven Knight were shocked to learn not only that a new movie was coming soon, but also that Oscar winner and fiercely Irish actor Cillian Murphy would be returning as their favorite Romani gangster, Thomas Shelby.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Some upgrades are on the way. Image via X\/@GovRonDeSantis.<\/p>\n<\/a>\u2018Operation Reel of Fortune\u2019 is a killer name. Image via X\/@FLGamingControl.<\/p>\n<\/a>Wilton Simpson secured a clean win with the Farm Bill\u2019s passage.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Thayendanegea Timber in Baker County. Image via FDACS.<\/p>\n<\/a>Blaise Ingoglia flanked by the announcement of the 2025 Fire Service Award winners.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>The odds are better than 1:Semisesquincentennial. Image via Florida Lottery.<\/p>\n<\/a>As it says, you only have one life.<\/p>\n<\/a>We appreciate OIR putting the graph in Gator colors.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>But can he say \u2018protected cell captive insurance company\u2019 three times fast?<\/p>\n<\/a>Allison Tant joined Jefferson K-12\u2019s first Career and Academic Planning Night.<\/p>\n<\/a>John Heekin nabbed another one.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Sunshine State consumers are bullish on the economy.<\/p>\n<\/a>College students in Tallahassee help clean up neighborhoods, schools and local businesses on Feb. 21, 2026. Image via Evan Eisenstark\/Division of Student Affairs.<\/p>\n<\/a>The distinction comes with a cool logo, too.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>The Lineman Competition is coming to town! Image via FMEA.<\/p>\n