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<\/a>Lake Kissimmee State Park, Lake Wales. Image via DEP.<\/p>\nFlorida\u2019s award-winning state parks have something for everyone, from outdoor recreation opportunities for the whole family to caverns, wetlands, beaches and springs. Partake in the fun with hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, swimming, paddling and horseback riding. And because it\u2019s the Fourth of July, why not also check out the amazing historic sites, including forts, battlefields, archaeological sites and other historic landmarks?<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile every July 4 is special, we recognize this Independence Day is a significant moment in our nation\u2019s history. I invite all Floridians, their friends and their family to our state parks to enjoy the outdoors, make new memories and support our treasured public lands,\u201d said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert.<\/p>\n
And just know it\u2019s not a waste of the day, as the Florida State Park system is the only four-time winner of the NRPA\u2019s National Gold Medal Award, showcasing how much the state invests in protecting natural resources while maintaining public access and environmental stewardship.<\/p>\n
And it pays to be great, as over the last fiscal year Florida State Parks saw more than 28 million visitors come through their nature-made doors, generating an estimated $3.6 billion in statewide economic impact.<\/p>\n
There are a few exclusions to the free admission: Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Skyway Fishing Pier State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Also note that free admission applies to day use only. All other fees, including overnight accommodations, special events, concessions and rentals, will remain in effect.<\/p>\n
Plan your trip now; it\u2019s not too late. Make sure to visit FloridaStateParks.org to find the nearest park near you. And if you want to feel patriotic with a Florida twist, you can bask in the 27th state in the Union\u2019s awesomeness at America250FL.com.<\/p>\n Now go watch some videos of bald eagles and late-\u201990s NFL highlights to get your adrenaline pumping in the name of the USA. It\u2019s what George Washington would want.<\/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 Signed<\/a> \u2014 Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a $117.6 billion state budget this week, delivering a shrinking spending plan for the fourth year in a row. In exercising his veto pen, DeSantis quipped, \u201cI\u2019m not trying to set a record here at this point. I\u2019ve been there, done that. I have that T-shirt.\u201d In 2022, DeSantis vetoed a record-breaking $3.1 billion in state budget funds. DeSantis said he vetoed items that he either considered \u201ceither inappropriate or maybe nice to have.\u201d The Governor touted the state\u2019s spending plan as investing billions to accelerate road construction projects, increase teacher pay and make major investments in cancer research. The new budget also sets aside $665 million for restoring the Everglades.<\/p>\n The cuts<\/a> \u2014 DeSantis\u2019 final budget as Governor includes nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes, with another $750 million the Legislature wanted to transfer into the state\u2019s rainy-day fund. The House passed a proposed constitutional amendment last year that would increase the mandated cap on the budget stabilization fund. This year, the Legislature added a potential $750 million transfer to ensure the state would be prepared for the new requirement. Additionally, the term-limited Governor vetoed $91.5 million to increase correctional officers\u2019 salaries. Government watchdog Florida TaxWatch previously urged DeSantis to shoot down 621 projects or \u201cbudget turkeys\u201d worth $830 million in the 2026-27 fiscal year budget. DeSantis vetoed 184 out of the 621 appropriations from the budget the group wanted slashed.<\/p>\n Staying on the sidelines<\/a> \u2014 DeSantis says he\u2019s not planning to be formally involved with any political committee to campaign for the proposed amendment after the Legislature changed his proposal. \u201cIf someone asked me to do something, I\u2019m not saying I wouldn\u2019t. But in terms of leading the effort, in terms of me saying, \u2018Here we go, we\u2019re going to do this.\u2019 We\u2019re going to do all that; I\u2019m not going to do it,\u201d DeSantis said in response to media questions at his budget signing news conference. \u201cThe reason is what the Legislature did wasn\u2019t my proposal.\u201d DeSantis\u2019 comments come after he spent months traveling across the state loudly pushing for property tax cuts during his official Governor press conferences and during media interviews.<\/p>\n DQ suit<\/a> \u2014 Gubernatorial candidate Jay Collins filed a lawsuit challenging GOP Primary opponent James Fishback\u2019s eligibility for office. Collins filed a complaint in the Leon County Circuit Court, arguing that Fishback does not meet the seven-year Florida residency requirement. The legal complaint notes that Fishback filed to vote in Washington, D.C., in November 2020 and voted in city elections. The lawsuit notes that in order to register there, Fishback had to establish he was a legal resident of the District of Columbia, and that he \u201cdid not claim voting residence or the right to vote in any other state or territory, including Florida.\u201d Florida Politics reported on the residency questions in December. Fishback claimed Collins challenge was \u201cnothing more than a desperate and illegal attempt to stop [Fishback\u2019s] momentum.\u201d<\/p>\n Better late than never<\/a> \u2014 It has been 77 years, but the state of Florida has finally approved compensation for the descendants of the Groveland 4. \u201cWhile no amount of money can erase the pain of the injustice they endured, this $4 million represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of the harm that was done and our responsibility to make it right,\u201d said Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis, who shepherded the efforts through the Legislature this year. The Legislature in 2017 formally apologized to the victims, and in 2019, DeSantis, a newly elected first-term Governor, delivered on his campaign promise to posthumously pardon the Groveland 4.<\/p>\n \u2014 One last time \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re gonna teach \u2019em how to say goodbye.\u201d<\/p>\n This week, DeSantis signed the Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27, a $117.6 billion spending plan that aims to reflect eight years of conservative leadership fueled by fiscal discipline.<\/p>\n There were nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes, and it is the fourth year in a row of declining state spending, while still throwing a bone to education, infrastructure, public safety, environmental conservation and economic opportunity.<\/p>\n \u201cOver the last seven and a half years, Florida has set the national standard for conservative governance, while breaking record after record in economic strength, education, and environmental stewardship. We\u2019ve delivered billions in tax relief to families while making historic investments in the priorities that matter most to Floridians,\u201d said DeSantis.<\/p>\n \u201cThe FY 2026-27 budget I signed today reflects the core priorities I laid out from the beginning. This budget protects taxpayers\u2019 interests, cuts spending for the fourth year in a row, and makes meaningful investments to build on Florida\u2019s successes in education, public safety, environmental conservation, infrastructure, cancer research, and more. I\u2019m proud that Florida continues to serve as the prime example of fiscal responsibility and government that works for the people of our state.\u201d<\/p>\n Some highlights touted by the Governor as his eight-year run winds to a close: the state is maxing out its rainy-day fund to the constitutional limit of $5.0 billion (up from $1.5 billion), maintaining a balanced budget, and earning AAA credit ratings from every major credit rating agency, and growing the state\u2019s reserves to nearly $18 billion.<\/p>\n All while giving Floridians nearly $9.7 billion in tax relief, including the repeal of the commercial rent tax.<\/p>\n Read the 2026-27 budget highlights here<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 FICO FAFO \u2014<\/p>\n Attorney General James Uthmeier is launching a civil investigation into the company at the forefront of issuing consumer credit risk reports.<\/p>\n Uthmeier says he has started a \u201ccivil investigative demand\u201d and issued a civil subpoena to Fair Isaac Corp. (FICO). That\u2019s the company behind the FICO score, which lenders across America use to determine credit risk. FICO is based in Bozeman, Montana.<\/p>\n The company is being investigated by Florida\u2019s top prosecutor amid questions about whether FICO has engaged in anticompetitive conduct. Uthmeier said he\u2019s investigating to see whether Florida\u2019s Antitrust Act has been violated.<\/p>\n \u201cFloridians deserve fair access to credit \u2014 not a system controlled by one company that repeatedly jacks up prices and blocks competition,\u201d Uthmeier said in a news release.<\/p>\n \u201cThese skyrocketing costs are passed directly to consumers, making it harder for families to buy homes, finance cars, and secure essential services. My office will not tolerate monopoly abuse that harms Florida families.\u201d<\/p>\n He went on to say that FICO has maintained its monopoly in the credit-scoring market for decades. Uthmeier said credit-scoring prices have risen dramatically in recent years. He went on to say the conduct might include predatory pricing, illegal product \u201cbundling,\u201d exclusionary contracts with major credit bureaus, and efforts to block competitors.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said his case is an offshoot of ongoing federal antitrust litigation. Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri has also raised questions about FICO and the company\u2019s pricing practices.<\/p>\n \u2014 Book \u2018em \u2014<\/p>\n Attorney General Uthmeier says five people have been arrested in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud public assistance programs in Central Florida.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said the suspects are believed to have stolen electronic benefit transfer (EBT) information and personal identification information (PII) from multiple victims in the Orlando area. According to Uthmeier, they used the information to purchase goods such as Monster and Red Bull energy drinks, coffee and bottled water, among other items. The suspects then turned around and sold the goods.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida is not going to tolerate organized schemes that steal taxpayer-funded benefits intended for Florida families,\u201d Uthmeier said in a news release. \u201cWe will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify every individual connected to this scheme and hold them accountable.\u201d<\/p>\n The Orlando Police Department cracked the case. Some of the crimes extended into Seminole County as well.<\/p>\n The five suspects arrested include Carlos Ruben Gomez Jimenez, Maite Lazara Mesa Labrada, Carlos Luis Diaz Jimenez, Enrique Gonzalez and Luis Gonzalez Dominguez. Carlos Ruben Gomez Jimenez and Labrada both entered the U.S. illegally two years ago, according to Uthmeier.<\/p>\n All five suspects face charges of an organized scheme to defraud less than $20,000 and public assistance fraud of $200 or more but less than $20,000. Both Jimenezes are also charged with criminal use of PII involving EBT accounts of more than 10 victims. Dominguez is also charged with criminal use of PII. Carlos Luis Diaz Jimenez and Gonzalez are also charged with dealing in stolen property.<\/p>\n \u2014 FDLE meet UCF \u2014<\/p>\n The Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced a partnership with UCF that will embed FDLE experts at the school\u2019s Academic Health Sciences Campus and relocate its toxicology laboratory to the Lake Nona facility.<\/p>\n The end goal is to better connect academic-industry research with workforce development and forensic testing in one of the nation\u2019s fastest-growing medical and technology fields.<\/p>\n \u201cThis partnership reflects what UCF was built to do \u2014 bring talent, technology and applied research together in service to Florida. By welcoming the FDLE Orlando Toxicology Lab to UCF\u2019s Academic Health Sciences Campus, we are bringing state forensic operations closer to faculty expertise and future workforce, creating opportunities to make smarter use of public resources while strengthening the knowledge, talent and tools available to keep Floridians safe,\u201d stated UCF President Alexander Cartwright.<\/p>\n The old FDLE Orlando Toxicology Lab, which was in downtown Orlando, handled up to 10,000 cases per year. The new partnership aims to modernize forensic services and create a talent pipeline that connects the university and the field.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough this partnership between FDLE and UCF, we are investing in the future of forensic science,\u201d said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.<\/p>\n \u201cThis partnership enhances our ability to recruit highly trained forensic scientists, develop new techniques and deliver timely, high-quality results to law enforcement agencies for investigations.\u201d<\/p>\n UCF brings to the table strong credentials, including one of the country\u2019s oldest forensic science programs, established in 1974. The university also ranks No. 6 nationally for bachelor\u2019s degree programs in forensic science, according to CriminalJusticeDegreeSchools.com.<\/p>\n \u201cThe closer our researchers are to operational labs, the more responsive and impactful their work becomes. We\u2019re able to identify challenges in real time and immediately begin working on solutions,\u201d added UCF chemistry professor and director of the National Center for Forensic Science, Jack Ballantyne.<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 Safety and style \u2014<\/p>\n Who says being stylish doesn\u2019t matter? This week, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officially entered the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) \u201cBest Looking Cruiser\u201d competition while staying on theme for America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Stylish, functional, and patriotic.<\/p>\n \u201cJoin me in celebrating 250 years of American strength and progress, while also celebrating the iconic black-and-tan cruiser and the heroes who drive them,\u201d said Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.<\/p>\n \u201cWhile the contest is a fun opportunity to showcase the best of law enforcement across the country, it also supports a truly important cause, which is giving back to the men and women who wear the badge. A vote for FHP is a vote for Florida.\u201d<\/p>\n Florida is on fire right now (and we aren\u2019t talking weather). For the last three years, FHP\u2019s classic black-and-tan cruisers have earned the \u201cBest Looking Cruiser\u201d title, making Florida the only state in contest history to go back-to-back-to-back.<\/p>\n To go for the four-peat, FHP needs your help. Online voting opened on Monday and runs through Monday, July 13, 2026, at noon. The top 13 states with the most votes will be featured in the 2027 wall calendar, and the top vote-getter will earn the cover.<\/p>\n \u201cThe members of the Florida Highway Patrol take great pride in the vehicles that support our mission every day. Our black-and-tan cruiser is more than a symbol of service \u2014 it\u2019s an iconic reflection of the dedication and professionalism of every Florida State Trooper patrolling the roadways of the Free State of Florida. We appreciate the continued support from communities across Florida and beyond as we compete once again in this year\u2019s American Association of State Troopers national contest,\u201d said Gary Howze, Colonel of the Florida Highway Patrol.<\/p>\n The annual contest was created by the American Association of State Troopers, founded by Florida State Troopers in 1989 and headquartered in Tallahassee.<\/p>\n Learn how to cast your vote here<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 Parks payday \u2014<\/p>\n GOAT status might not be an understatement when it comes to our parks.<\/p>\n This week, the spirit of Theodore Roosevelt, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and true Floridians alike celebrated with the Florida State Parks Foundation as it announced that $44.5 million in the 2026-27 budget has been allocated to help Florida\u2019s state parks maintain their status as the very best in the nation.<\/p>\n \u201cThis generous budget is a clear sign that Gov. DeSantis, our state representatives and our Senators understand how much our state parks mean to Floridians and to visitors from all over the world. We are thrilled to see this reflected in the budget and appreciate all the support that our state parks receive from our state\u2019s leaders,\u201d said former state Rep. Matt Caldwell, the current President of the Foundation\u2019s Board of Directors.<\/p>\n Some of the funding highlights include money for facility improvements, such as the new Discovery Center and Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Monroe County, which recently broke ground on Earth Day.<\/p>\n \u201cOur state parks are a tremendous source of pride for the state of Florida,\u201d said Foundation board member and state Rep. Allison Tant.<\/p>\n \u201cNot only are they home to pristine beaches, springs, trails and wildlife habitat, but they also provide incredible value and return on investment while serving as major economic drivers for our state and local communities.\u201d<\/p>\n To help ensure more funding in future years, the Florida State Parks Foundation has hosted events such as \u201cLegislative Days,\u201d which include a reception at the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, followed by one-on-one meetings between Foundation Board members and elected officials.<\/p>\n \u201cOne of the Florida State Parks Foundation\u2019s primary goals is to create \u2018Legislative Champions\u2019 at the Capitol,\u201d said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation.<\/p>\n \u201cWe believe that when our state\u2019s leaders experience the parks for themselves and see the incredible benefits they create for Florida\u2019s environment and economy, it\u2019s then easy to prioritize state parks in the budget and provide them with necessary funding.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 \u266b Shiny teeth and me \u266b \u2014<\/p>\n This week, Rep. Jervonte Edmonds celebrated the signing of HB 253, the Dental Care for Veterans Act, which expands access to critical dental services for Florida veterans through the state\u2019s Veterans Dental Care Grant Program.<\/p>\n \u201cToo many Florida veterans have had to choose between paying for dental care and paying for everyday necessities,\u201d said Edmonds.<\/p>\n \u201cHB 253 is about opening the door to care for more veterans and ensuring that those who served our nation are not left behind when it comes to their health. This law means more Floridians will be able to access preventative care, restorative treatment, and services that can improve their quality of life.\u201d<\/p>\n The bill, sponsored by Edmonds and Sen. Barbara Sharief, passed both chambers of the Legislature unanimously and expands eligibility for the Veterans Dental Care Grant Program by increasing the income threshold from 300% to 400% of the federal poverty level.<\/p>\n \u201cThis legislation reflects a simple principle: when veterans need care, we should be finding ways to help more people, not fewer. Today, Florida is taking an important step toward ensuring that more veterans can receive the dental care they deserve,\u201d Edmonds said.<\/p>\n The bill took effect on July 1.<\/p>\n \u2014 30 Milly for Palm Beach \u2014<\/p>\n Isn\u2019t it great when your elected official acts on behalf of you and your community to make meaningful change?<\/p>\n With the budget signed and the veto list scoured, Sen. Mack Bernard is touting funding for 23 appropriations projects totaling more than $30 million for Palm Beach County.<\/p>\n \u201cBringing home funding to Palm Beach County is one of the most important parts of my job, and it\u2019s one I take very seriously,\u201d Bernard said.<\/p>\n \u201cThe more than $30 million invested in our community will help improve schools, roads, and other infrastructure while supporting students with special needs and local nonprofits like the Boys and Girls Club. These are exactly the kind of projects our tax dollars should be supporting, and I\u2019m proud to help direct those funds back to Palm Beach County.\u201d<\/p>\n The funding includes $1.5 million for the Boys & Girls Club & Teen Workforce Readiness Center of West Palm Beach, $440,000 for program enhancements at Roosevelt Elementary School, and $1.5 million to complete a special needs facility through The Arc of Palm Beach County.<\/p>\n Infrastructure projects are also included, with $2 million for drainage improvements along Australian Avenue and $1.5 million for a new water treatment plant in Riviera Beach.<\/p>\n We\u2019re sure the people of Palm Beach County will appreciate the upgrades \u2014 sooner or later.<\/p>\n \u2014 Palm Beach County cha-ching \u2014<\/p>\n \u266b\u266b \u201cAnd Peggy!\u201d \u266b\u266b<\/p>\n It clearly pays to have good elected officials where you live. As Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the state budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27, one Representative ensured funding for her county\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n This week, Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman is taking a victory lap for the $32,408,560 in state funding she secured for communities across Palm Beach County during the 2026 Legislative Session.<\/p>\n Some of the funding she secured is going toward investments in higher education, public safety, healthcare, infrastructure, drinking water, environmental restoration, workforce development and nonprofit organizations.<\/p>\n And this isn\u2019t a one-time event.<\/p>\n Since taking office in 2022, Rep. Gossett-Seidman has secured more than $75.4 million in state funding for projects in Boca Raton, Highland Beach and other smaller communities in Palm Beach County.<\/p>\n One of the big highlights this year includes a $20 million investment for Florida Atlantic University\u2019s Health Professions Training & Research Facility.<\/p>\n Other noteworthy projects funded this year for Palm Beach County include Boca School for Autism, security enhancements at the Palm Beach Zoo and Habitat, and pedestrian safety and traffic improvements in Highland Beach.<\/p>\n There was also $1 million for improvements at the intersection of Delray Beach\u2019s Swinton Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, and $1.2 million for the Indian River Lagoon seagrass and water quality recovery initiative.<\/p>\n Not a bad year overall for the Rep and PBC residents.<\/p>\n \u2014 Shellfish subsidy sinks \u2014<\/p>\n One of the fishier budget items of the 2026 Legislative Session ultimately didn\u2019t survive Gov. DeSantis\u2019 veto pen.<\/p>\n Among the nearly $810 million in line-item vetoes was a $500,000 appropriation for the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Workforce Development Program, a proposal that drew attention<\/a> after it earmarked taxpayer dollars to help cover the salary and benefits of the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Association\u2019s Executive Director while also funding work the position would oversee.<\/p>\n The request, sponsored by Rep. Chad Johnson, was pitched as a workforce development initiative to help rebuild Florida\u2019s shellfish industry through internships, training and curriculum development.<\/p>\n But the funding also raised eyebrows because the association\u2019s Executive Director, Adrianne Johnson, is a registered lobbyist, creating optics that critics argued blurred the line between workforce development and taxpayer support for an industry advocate.<\/p>\n In the end, the Governor decided the appropriation didn\u2019t pass the smell test.<\/p>\n \u2014 Orange you glad for investments? \u2014<\/p>\n We\u2019ve got the best OJ in the nation, and it\u2019s because of investments like this.<\/p>\n Monday, DeSantis signed the 2026-27 budget, which allocates nearly $196 million for Florida\u2019s citrus industry. The funding includes research, field trials, nursery and packing equipment infrastructure, and marketing.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have overcome challenge after challenge caused by citrus greening and hurricanes, and now we have promising new tools, technologies and varieties that can help accelerate recovery and strengthen the long-term viability of Florida citrus,\u201d said Matt Joyner, Executive Vice President and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual.<\/p>\n \u201cThese resources will help growers adopt proven solutions more quickly, restore production, strengthen critical industry infrastructure and secure the future of Florida\u2019s iconic crop so that it can continue contributing to our economy, environment and way of life for generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n The funding includes $160 million for citrus research through the Citrus Research and Field Trial (CRAFT) program and an additional $20 million for Citrus Nursery and Packing Equipment Grants to purchase or rehabilitate equipment for citrus nurseries and packinghouses.<\/p>\n Another $5 million will go toward nonrecurring funding for Florida Department of Citrus marketing efforts, $4.5 million for basic citrus research through the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, $2.25 million for the Crop Transformation Center, $2 million for the Citrus Recovery Program, and $2 million for the Citrus Budwood Program to expand propagation of citrus greening-tolerant or -resistant budwood trees and seedlings.<\/p>\n \u2014 FBHA budget praise \u2014<\/p>\n The Florida Behavioral Health Association<\/a> is thanking Gov. DeSantis for signing a budget that continues the administration\u2019s investment in community mental health and substance use disorder services.<\/p>\n \u201cBehavioral health touches every community in Florida, and this budget reflects the importance of ensuring individuals and families have access to quality mental health and substance use disorder services,\u201d said FBHA President and CEO Melanie Brown Woofter.<\/p>\n \u201cIn a year of fiscal discipline, the state\u2019s investment in mental health and substance use disorder services demonstrates a clear recognition of the critical role these services play in improving the health, safety, and well-being of individuals and families in every community. Through his continued investment in Florida\u2019s behavioral health system, the Governor has helped expand access to care, strengthen community-based services, and support providers serving Floridians across the state.\u201d<\/p>\n The association also credited the Governor\u2019s support over the past eight years with helping expand access to care, strengthen community-based services and support providers serving patients across the state.<\/p>\n FBHA, which represents more than 70 community mental health and substance use treatment providers from Pensacola to Key West, also thanked First Lady Casey DeSantis and members of the Legislature for their work to improve Florida\u2019s behavioral health system.<\/p>\n \u2014 Clerks crew \u2014<\/p>\n The Clerk of Courts Operations Corp. (CCOC) has installed its new leadership to oversee the organization that assists Florida\u2019s court system supervisors.<\/p>\n The CCOC held its Summer Conference and named its 2026-2027 Executive Council and elected its Executive Committee.<\/p>\n Clay County Clerk of Court Tara Green will return to the organization in her role as Chair of the Executive Council. Also returning to their same roles will be Todd Newton, Gilchrist County Clerk of Courts, who will remain Vice-Chair and Michelle Miller, St. Lucie County Clerk, who will remain as Secretary-Treasurer.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Juan Fernandez-Barquin, the Miami-Dade County Clerk, will transition from his previous role as House Appointee in the CCOC to Clerk Representative after the CCOC members voted and approved him to fill the position previously held by Tiffany Moore Russell, Clerk of Orange County.<\/p>\n \u2014 Historic Florida engineers \u2014<\/p>\n The Rattlers are building something special right here in Tallahassee.<\/p>\n A few months ago, the Spring 2026 graduating class at the Florida A&M University\u2013Florida State University College of Engineering became the largest graduating cohort of FAMU engineering students since the start of the 21st century.<\/p>\n For the university and faculty members who have witnessed that growth firsthand, it showcases intentional recruitment, expanded academic support, and a purposeful approach to student development.<\/p>\n \u201cGraduating the largest group of FAMU engineers from the joint college since the turn of the millennium is evidence that what we\u2019ve built here is working,\u201d said Suvranu De, Dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.<\/p>\n \u201cOur enrollment has grown, our support infrastructure has matured, and our faculty have deepened their investment in student success. These were students who were recruited intentionally, supported consistently and graduated because we built systems designed to get them there.\u201d<\/p>\n Over the last five years, FAMU undergraduate enrollment at the joint college has increased by 66% and, according to De, is rooted in a comprehensive approach that starts well before students step on campus and continues long after the cap and gown.<\/p>\n Those gains have also been fueled by student success in the Engineering Student Access Program, which is supported through Florida A&M University\u2019s Title III Programs.<\/p>\n Of the 40 first-time-in-college students in the graduating cohort, 34 participated in engineering access initiatives \u2014 nearly 85% of the class.<\/p>\n \u201cFor me, this moment is deeply personal because it represents a journey that began decades ago. As a student at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in the 1990s, I experienced firsthand what the college meant to students on both campuses. There was a strong sense of community, pride and responsibility to help the next generation succeed,\u201d said Charmane V. Caldwell, Director of Student Access at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.<\/p>\n \u201cThe key has always been creating an environment where students feel like they belong before they ever question whether they can succeed. Engineering is challenging, and students need a community that pushes them, supports them and reminds them they are not facing those challenges alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 First of its kind \u2014<\/p>\n Florida State University (FSU) is entering into a unique partnership with the United Nations (U.N.) to enhance research in sport ecology.<\/p>\n The partnership is the first of its kind, according to an FSU news release. FSU will be teaming up with the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization to link sport and environmental sciences and influence global policy.<\/p>\n It will be a four-year partnership between FSU and the U.N. and will involve working with peer institutions across six continents, according to the FSU news release. FSU is one of 33 U.S.-based schools taking part in the project. There are 14 chairs designated to oversee the project, and FSU will have one of those chairs.<\/p>\n \u201cHolding the world\u2019s first UNESCO Chair in sport ecology is a distinct honor for Florida State University, and a recognition that sport\u2019s relationship with the environment is worthy of serious study,\u201d said Timothy Kellison, FSU\u2019s chairholder and an Associate Professor of Sport Management within the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.<\/p>\n Sport ecology is a discipline that studies the relationship between sports and the natural environment. That can include the study of carbon emissions, energy use and facility construction associated with different sports and how those impact environmental change.<\/p>\n \u2014 Business savvy vets \u2014<\/p>\n Teaching veterans the keys to success with the Noles.<\/p>\n This month, Florida State University (FSU)\u2019s Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship celebrated the completion of the 2026 Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families (EBV-F) and its first cohort, held in Tallahassee from June 8-12.<\/p>\n It was a five-day program that brought together veterans, military spouses and family members from across the Big Bend region to learn the pathway to successful entrepreneurship and business ownership through various hands-on workshops, mentorship and networking opportunities.<\/p>\n Participants gained practical tools and expertise from some of the best and brightest minds in the state in marketing, financial management, leadership and strategic growth.<\/p>\n \u201cEntrepreneurship is more than starting a business \u2014 it\u2019s about creating opportunities, building communities and empowering individuals to recognize their own potential. It\u2019s a privilege to support this year\u2019s remarkable cohort of veteran spouses, caregivers and family members as they leverage their unique experiences, resilience and dedication to build businesses that drive meaningful change,\u201d said Melissa Roberts, Director of Veterans Programs at the Jim Moran Institute.<\/p>\n During the program, there was a large emphasis on collaboration, innovation and the unique strengths that veterans and their military families specifically bring to the business community.<\/p>\n An untapped area, potentially.<\/p>\n Graduates are now part of the ever-growing network of alumni from the EBV-F program and the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n For more information about the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families and other Jim Moran Institute programs, visit the Jim Moran Institute<\/a> website.<\/p>\n \u2014 Face of the month \u2014<\/p>\n Mark your calendar. In this case, literally.<\/p>\n On Tuesday, June 30, Tallahassee State College (TSC) announced it is now accepting nominations for its annual Cherry Hall Alexander African American History Calendar (AAHC) \u2014 a distinguished annual tradition in North Florida that recognizes and celebrates African American trailblazers from across the Big Bend region.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s theme? \u201cFrom Print to Pixels: Black Creators and Communicators.\u201d It\u2019s all about shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who have made a lasting impact in journalism, publishing, communications, print, and digital media across the area, and how they\u2019ve used media to tell stories, inform the public, and create community connections while shaping public discourse.<\/p>\n \u201cAt Tallahassee State College, we believe education is about preserving history, celebrating achievement, and inspiring future generations. The Cherry Hall Alexander African American History Calendar reflects those values by honoring local individuals whose leadership and service have strengthened our communities. We hope this year\u2019s theme encourages even more people to share the stories of those who have made a lasting impact,\u201d said Calandra Stringer, Provost and VP for Academic Affairs at TSC.<\/p>\n To be nominated, an individual must be from Leon, Wakulla, Jefferson, or Gadsden counties and provide proof of meaningful contributions to the community through leadership, education, mentorship, advocacy, civic engagement, or volunteerism while also highlighting the evolving role of media and instant communication in today\u2019s digital age.<\/p>\n Nominations are open through Aug. 31 and can be submitted here<\/a>.<\/p>\n If you or someone you know fits the bill, be sure to apply.<\/p>\n \u2014 County closed for 250 \u2014<\/p>\n Closed in the name of patriotic partying.<\/p>\n Happy Fourth of July, everyone, and we hope you have a great 250. But Leon County wants in on the fun too. So, there will be certain closures and service changes in observance of the Independence Day holiday through Monday.<\/p>\n Starting Thursday and continuing through Monday, Leon County offices, libraries, community centers, and Animal Control will be closed. On the Fourth itself \u2014 psst, that\u2019s today \u2014 the Leon County Solid Waste Facility, Household Hazardous Waste Center, and Rural Waste Centers will all be closing their doors.<\/p>\n But throughout the holiday, the Leon County Parks and Recreation facilities (parks, greenways, campgrounds, and boat landings) will remain open for citizens to enjoy fireworks, hit the grill, and spend time together.<\/p>\n \u201cAs we celebrate Independence Day and commemorate America\u2019s 250th anniversary, I am proud to extend the holiday weekend for our dedicated county staff in recognition of their hard work and service to our community. I hope our residents and visitors enjoy a safe and meaningful holiday weekend, and I thank our county employees for their continued dedication to serving our community throughout the year,\u201d said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban.<\/p>\n Some additional services worth noting include the closure of all LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library branch locations on July 1. All libraries resume normal operating hours on Tuesday.<\/p>\n The Solid Waste Management Facility on Apalachee Parkway closed on Friday and will resume normal operating hours on Monday. But don\u2019t worry, the residential waste collection routes will not be delayed.<\/p>\n The Waste Pro\u2019s holiday schedule can be found online,<\/a> or you can call the Leon County Solid Waste Management Division at 850-606-1800.<\/p>\n \u2014 Parks plays well \u2014<\/p>\n Backed by business.<\/p>\n Election season is heating up, and this week, Tallahassee business owner and attorney Daryl Parks\u2019 mayoral campaign secured a victory in a straw poll conducted by Network of Entrepreneurs and Business Advocates (NEBA), a collective voice of small-business advocates dedicated to making Tallahassee a better place to live and work.<\/p>\n The win came during a candidate forum hosted by NEBA as Parks leveraged his background as a self-made entrepreneur and leader in the Tallahassee finance scene on top of his leadership roles such as being the chairman of the Bond Community Health Center Board of Directors, being the former head of the Florida A&M University Board of Trustees, and having been a long time and key supporter of the Sickle Cell Foundation.<\/p>\n \u201cWinning today\u2019s NEBA straw poll is a powerful vote of confidence from the job creators who drive Tallahassee forward. Our community is ready for an independent leader who will bring executive discipline to City Hall,\u201d stated Parks after the win.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough my Unified Economic Development Plan, we will overhaul our permitting code, implement zero-based budgeting, equip first responders with the technology to reduce crime, and bring concrete solutions to address skyrocketing housing costs while maximizing the economic potential of the FSU-TMH healthcare partnership.\u201d<\/p>\n Parks ended his remarks by reminding voters to submit absentee ballots starting next week or to participate in early voting ahead of the Aug. 18 Primary.<\/p>\n \u2014 Minions, Monsters, Washington, Elle \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s time for the weekly FlaPol film rundown.<\/p>\n You know them, you love them, you hate them; they are the classic out-of-touch Facebook meme: the Minions. And they are back in their 7th outing as a franchise and third solo film, with \u201cMinions and Monsters.\u201d<\/p>\n The Illumination film is co-written and co-directed by long-term creative of the series, Oscar nominee Pierre Coffin (who also voices the Minions), and stars Oscar nominees Jesse Eisenberg and Trey Parker and Oscar winners Christoph Waltz and Jeff Bridges. The plot appears to be child-friendly \u201cBabylon\u201d or animated \u201cSinging in the Rain\u201d as it follows the Minions as they take on 1920s Hollywood searching for the perfect creature for their monster movies. Maybe Hollywood really just loves itself, as the film is the highest rated in the entire series, with 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.5 on IMDb, and 3.3 on Letterboxd.<\/p>\n The other big release this holiday weekend is \u201cYoung Washington,\u201d which is about exactly who you think it is. The plot follows a young George as he fights in the French and Indian War. The film is distributed by Angel Studios, the conservative independent film company behind \u201cSound of Freedom\u201d and, most recently, \u201cAnimal Farm,\u201d which was a huge critical, audience, and financial bomb.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/a>The final state budget of the DeSantis Era was signed this week.<\/p>\n<\/a>It keeps saying \u2018civil investigative demand.\u2019 Do you have another card? Stock image via Adobe.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>James Uthmeier caught a couple more alleged fraudsters this week.<\/p>\n<\/a>The state\u2019s top law enforcement agency is partnering with UCF. Image via X\/@fdlepio.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>She\u2019s a beaut. Now, go vote!<\/p>\n<\/a>The new state budget delivered for Florida\u2019s parks.<\/p>\n<\/a>Jervonte Edmonds\u2019 bill will expand access to dental care for more veterans.<\/p>\n<\/a>Mack Bernard didn\u2019t come home from the 2026 Session empty-handed.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Peggy Gossett-Seidman\u2019s tally since 2022 has crossed $75M.<\/p>\n<\/a>Looks like FSAA will have to pay its own way.<\/p>\n<\/a>Florida\u2019s 2026-27 budget included big bucks for the state\u2019s signature crop.<\/p>\n<\/a>Melanie Brown Woofter applauds Florida\u2019s continued investment in behavioral health.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Tara Green is returning as Chair. Image via Twitter.<\/p>\n<\/a>Dean Suvranu De, Ph.D., dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, congratulates a graduating engineering student during Florida A&M University\u2019s Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony. Image via Christian Whitaker.<\/p>\n<\/a>Becoming a UNESCO Chair in Sport Ecology positions FSU at the forefront of a growing discipline that links sport, environmental science and global policy. Image via FSU.<\/p>\n<\/a>Participants of the FSU Jim Moran Institute Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families engaged in sessions focused on business planning, marketing, financial management, leadership and strategic growth. Image via Seamus Toner.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Nominations are open!<\/p>\n<\/a>Check back in a few days.<\/p>\n<\/a>Daryl Parks was the pick for Tally Mayor in NEBA\u2019s straw poll.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n