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<\/a>Florida coastal Thanksgiving table with stone crab, citrus-brined turkey and Fresh From Florida dishes everywhere.<\/p>\nThis week, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson wants you and your family to try what Fresh From Florida, a subprogram of the FDACS that aims to promote healthy, local Florida products to help our farmers, has curated for an original, Florida-based Thanksgiving menu. To get that classic pilgrim style, but also a Florida spin.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery Thanksgiving plate starts with a farmer. Fresh From Florida makes it easy for families to find locally grown ingredients that are perfect for their holiday meals. This Thanksgiving, we celebrate the farmers who make our food abundant, fresh and full of flavor,\u201d said Commissioner Simpson.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s special recipes include \u201cFlorida Stone Crab Claws with Key Lime Mustard Dipping Sauce,\u201d \u201cFlorida Sweet Corn and Sausage Stuffing,\u201d \u201cTurkey with Florida Citrus Brine,\u201d and last but not least, \u201cFlorida Citrus Prosecco Crush.\u201d We don\u2019t know about you, but our mouths are watering.<\/p>\n
By shaking things up this year with your Thanksgiving dinners and trying FDACS\u2019 Fresh From Florida menu, not only are you expanding your palate to include coastal Thanksgiving treats, but you are also actively helping the Florida economy and the farmers who make so many meals a reality here in Florida, while also guaranteeing health and quality products. Tariffs have been hitting them, too. Hard.<\/p>\n
Fresh From Florida also has your back if you are a little turkey naive when it comes to all things making one. They have some tips. If you have a 20\u201324-pound turkey, you need to start thawing ASAP (literally yesterday \u2014 Friday); if you have a 16-19-pound turkey, start thawing today, Saturday. If you have a 12-15-pound turkey, begin on Sunday, and if you have a 4-11-pound turkey, Monday is the day to start thawing for you.<\/p>\n
And if your little ones enjoy helping you make Thanksgiving a reality this year and loved kitten time, maybe sign them up for Fresh From Florida\u2019s Jr. Chef University program, which recently launched and features the talent of a celebrity award-winning chef, Chef Justin Timineri. It\u2019s self-paced and great for all ages.<\/p>\n
Fresh from Florida reminds everyone that when it\u2019s made\/caught or grown here, it\u2019s \u201cgrown with care, pride and purpose.\u201d Give thanks to what you have and maybe consider being a little generous and throwing one to our Florida farmers this Thanksgiving. For the complete menu, visit followfreshfromflorida.com\/florida-thanksgiving<\/a> and happy Turkey Day!<\/p>\n Also, if you are running the turkey trot this year, please keep it to yourself. We will be stuffing ourselves over here and don\u2019t need to feel guilty about not getting up at 7 a.m. to run a 5- or 10-km race.<\/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 Yikes<\/a> \u2014 A federal grand jury indicted U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick on charges she stole $5 million in disaster relief funds to finance her 2021 congressional campaign<\/a>. The indictment alleges that Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, secured funding intended for a COVID-19 vaccine distribution program, but when overpayments were made, she routed the funds through several accounts that later donated them as campaign contributions. Should Cherfilus-McCormick be found guilty of all counts in the indictment, the 46-year-old could face up to 53 years in prison, according to the Justice Department. The allegations mirror those investigated<\/a> by the House Ethics Committee. The Office of Congressional Conduct released a report<\/a> in May saying the Congresswoman may have violated federal law.<\/p>\n Creative cartography<\/a> \u2014 The Florida House has announced the first step in a highly anticipated mid-decade congressional redistricting effort. A House schedule shows the Congressional Redistricting Select Committee<\/a> will hold its first meeting on Dec. 4 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. But it\u2019s unclear what the meeting will entail. The full notice and agenda remain unavailable, and some members of the Committee were surprised to see the meeting on the schedule. The move came just a week after House Speaker Daniel Perez told POLITICO<\/a> at the Lincoln Day Dinner in Miami that \u201credistricting hasn\u2019t been a conversation that we\u2019ve had yet.\u201d Gov. Ron DeSantis shortly afterward made clear he still expects movement and encouraged people to \u201cstay tuned<\/a>.\u201d Meanwhile, the White House has aggressively pushed Republican-controlled states across the country to maximize seats where the GOP has an advantage in U.S. House contests ahead of the Midterms.<\/p>\n They\u2019re everywhere<\/a> \u2014 Florida\u2019s public schools are reporting a flood of letters from charter school operators staking claim to space inside District campuses under the state\u2019s expanded \u201cSchools of Hope<\/a>\u201d program. As of this week, 22 School Districts across the state have received at least 690 letters of intent from charter school operators, according to data gathered by the Florida Policy Institute, a member of the Florida Coalition for Thriving Public Schools. Critics describe the program as an unfunded mandate that forces public schools to subsidize private operations and drains resources from classrooms already struggling to keep pace with inflation. South Florida has received the most letters so far, with at least 224 between Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Miami-Dade officials said the District received at least 180 letters, though only 90 were considered valid because many came from Bridge Prep Academy, which is not yet an approved Schools of Hope operator.<\/p>\n Fare thee well<\/a> \u2014 Equality Florida<\/a> CEO Nadine Smith will step down at year\u2019s end to lead national racial justice group Color Of Change<\/a>. The Equality Florida Board has named Stratton Pollitzer, who co-founded the group with Smith, as its new CEO and Executive Director. In a video message<\/a>, Smith said she was leaving Florida\u2019s largest LGBTQ advocacy organization in a position of strength. \u201cMy commitment to this organization and its mission is forever,\u201d she stressed. \u201cThis is family. This is home. And I\u2019m brimming with confidence because the team we\u2019ve built here is without question among the most talented and dedicated in the nation.\u201d She has worked at Equality Florida for 28 years, and said the new opportunity came as a surprise. Color Of Change announced that she would begin there on Jan. 12.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a race<\/a> \u2014 Rep. Kevin Steele<\/a> has officially filed to run for Chief Financial Officer. U.S. Sen. Rick Scott is endorsing Steele, who will challenge incumbent CFO Blaise Ingoglia<\/a> in an increasingly crowded GOP Primary. \u201cKevin Steele is a proven leader and a true conservative who knows how to get results,\u201d Scott said in his endorsement. \u201cAs a business owner, he\u2019s created jobs, cut waste, and made organizations more efficient. As a legislator, he\u2019s fought to protect Florida taxpayers and lower costs for families. I\u2019m proud to support Kevin because he\u2019ll bring that same fiscal responsibility, accountability, and focus on results to the CFO\u2019s office.\u201d Steele is a Republican<\/a> from Dade City who has served in the Florida House since 2022. Steele represents House District 55, which covers parts of Pasco and Hillsborough counties.<\/p>\n \u2014 DeSanta Claus returns \u2014<\/p>\n It\u2019s the holiday season, a time known for giving and being considerate. And even a Grinch like our Governor can have his heart grow three sizes despite it being \u201ctwo sizes too small.\u201d<\/p>\n Good news for state workers: This week, Gov. DeSantis announced that state offices will be closed on Nov. 26, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 as a celebration of Thanksgiving, Christmas and the start of the New Year \u2014 meaning all state workers will get those additional days off.<\/p>\n It\u2019s an early Christmas miracle.<\/p>\n \u201cOur state employees have worked hard throughout the year. I hope they enjoy additional time off with loved ones and friends this holiday season. The First Lady and I are thankful for their continued dedication to the people of Florida,\u201d DeSantis said.<\/p>\n The additional days off are in addition to regular holiday office closures: Thursday, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving); Thursday, Dec. 25 (Christmas); and Thursday, Jan. 1 (New Year\u2019s Day).<\/p>\n Thanks, Mr. Scrooge.<\/p>\n Enjoy the extra time to eat more leftovers, spend time with family, watch football (CFB and NFL alike) and eat some black-eyed peas \u2014 however you and your family celebrate the last two months of the year.<\/p>\n Enjoy the most wonderful time of the year from all of us at Florida Politics, and from your ever-warm and charming Governor.<\/p>\n \u2014 Home for the holidays \u2014<\/p>\n A statewide operation involving the Attorney General\u2019s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service ended with the rescue of 22 missing children.<\/p>\n Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Monday the children were recovered as part of an investigation called \u201cOperation Home for the Holidays.\u201d The investigation spanned Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and Fort Myers, and extended into nine other states.<\/p>\n \u201cThanks to one of the single largest child-rescue operations in U.S. history, 122 missing children are safe,\u201d Uthmeier said. \u201cThis operation highlights the strength and diligence of Florida\u2019s Law Enforcement. I am deeply grateful for everyone that made Operation Home for the Holidays a massive success. Many of these kids have been victimized in unspeakable ways. We will prosecute their abusers to the fullest extent of the law.\u201d<\/p>\n The two-week investigation ended with the recovery of the missing youth. Some 57 were located in the Tampa area, 14 in Orlando, 22 in Jacksonville and 29 in Fort Myers. The children ranged in age from 23 months to 17 years. A press release said several had experienced abuse, neglect, exploitation and exposure to criminal activity. Six people were charged with felonies.<\/p>\n The Department of Children and Families was also involved in the operation.<\/p>\n \u201cOperation Home for the Holidays is a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together with urgency and shared purpose to recover Florida\u2019s most vulnerable children,\u201d said DCF Secretary Taylor Hatch.<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 Indictment season \u2014<\/p>\n It was a busy last two months for the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office in the Northern District of Florida. Indictments galore.<\/p>\n This week in Tallahassee, U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin announced that 46 individuals across the state were indicted across the three divisions of the Northern District during the lapse in appropriations.<\/p>\n In the Gainesville Division, Peter Daniel Ring (threatening communications), Deshawn Russ (prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition) and Khalil Keari Barnett (possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking and prohibited person in possession of a gun and ammunition) all received indictments.<\/p>\n In the Pensacola Division, the following individuals were indicted: Pedro Lopez Calderon, Jonathan Callejas-Callejas, Mateo Linares-Aparicio, Jose Del Carmen Perez-Gomez, Eduardo Ramirez-Francisco, Nicholas Mencho-Lucas, Augustin Bello Rodriguez, Joel Nahum Sanchez Montoya, Selvin Ramos Vasquez, Abel DeJesus Ronquillo-Martinez, Juan De La Cruz Mejia-Castro, Belarmino Basilio Godinez, Miguel Angel Gomez-Ical, Luis Maldonado, Carlos Eulogio Mortero-Sipac, Jose Julian Maldonado-Ramas, Treivorn McLeod, Christopher Gene Summers, Gustavo Ramirez-Guillen, Tamal Jenkins, Damian Pressle, Logan Schoonmaker, Matthew Murillo, Tiffani Harris, Marquis Dy\u2019Monte Bethea, Terrance Goodman and Daniel Bookout.<\/p>\n And the following unlucky individuals got popped in the Tallahassee division: Paul Hart, Michael Duane Dyson, Edward Cromartie, Timeka Griffin, Robert Rundles, Justin Luis Ruiz Jr., Dalvert Encarnacion Francisco, Theodore Robinson, Johnny Robinson, Michael McDonald, Dani Cordoba Munoz, Howard Martin, Jose Vasquez-Martinez, Cordelle Collier, Miguel Hatcher and Jose Neftali Monge-Guevara.<\/p>\n A reminder: An indictment is an allegation by a grand jury and not proof that a defendant has committed a crime. Thirty-four of the indictments were part of \u201cOperation Take Back America,\u201d and four were part of \u201cProject Safe Childhood,\u201d an initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.<\/p>\n \u2014 Line goes down \u2014<\/p>\n As the U.S. Department of Labor returned to posting figures on new weekly unemployment filings after the federal government shutdown that lasted more than a month, Florida continued its trend of fairly solid numbers, evident throughout most of the Summer months.<\/p>\n The DOL report<\/a> for the week ending Nov. 15 shows a sharp decrease in first-time unemployment claims in the state. That figure came in at 4,981, down from the previous week\u2019s 5,833 \u2014 a reduction of 852 claims. It\u2019s one of the biggest drops in the last half-year and reflects the general trend of a few notable increases.<\/p>\n The last formal new unemployment report<\/a> was nearly two months ago and covered the week ending Sept. 20, when there was also a notable drop. The figure fell by 485 from the week ending Sept. 13 to 5,590.<\/p>\n The first report in November reflects the steeper slide in claims tied to the onset of the holiday season. Retailers are ramping up hiring of seasonal workers in anticipation of the influx of shoppers as the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays approach.<\/p>\n The most recent drop in Florida\u2019s initial jobless claims reflects the national trend. Unadjusted data showed there were 216,671 claims last week \u2014 a 9.3% decrease from the previous week\u2019s figure of 22,095. That is a larger decrease than DOL analysts projected. Federal economists had anticipated a 5.9% decline, or a drop of 14,166.<\/p>\n \u2014 Capital City crackdown \u2014<\/p>\n All Floridians can unify on one topic: fentanyl, and how it has become an epidemic in our country. Anytime it\u2019s taken off the streets, lives are being saved \u2014 and this time it affects the capital city itself.<\/p>\n This week, the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office for the Northern District of Florida announced that Curtis Battle, 38, of Tallahassee, has been sentenced to 15 years for the distribution of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, crack and marijuana. U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin announced the sentence on Wednesday.<\/p>\n \u201cDeadly fentanyl continues to have a devastating impact on communities across the Northern District of Florida and nationwide, but our state and federal law enforcement partners remain committed to aggressively targeting and removing the peddlers of this poison from our streets. My office stands ready to back up those law enforcement efforts with the full force of the law,\u201d Heekin said.<\/p>\n Law enforcement conducted a series of drug purchases directly from Battle, then later executed a federal search warrant at his Tallahassee residence. Officers seized multiple drugs, trafficking paraphernalia and $15,000.<\/p>\n \u201cPeddling these poisons in our communities will not be tolerated. DEA will continue to make removing these bad actors a top priority,\u201d said DEA Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter.<\/p>\n Heekin had one final message: \u201cWe will take back America from the drug traffickers who have flooded our streets with deadly drugs.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Line goes down, part deux \u2014<\/p>\n Workers\u2019 compensation insurance policies will be a bit more affordable in Florida thanks to a decision by the Office of Insurance Regulation this week to lower rates by 6.9%.<\/p>\n The average rate decrease on new and renewal policies will take effect Jan. 1. It\u2019s the ninth consecutive year Florida has reduced those rates.<\/p>\n The decrease was proposed by the National Council on Compensation Insurance and is designed to provide relief for employers across the state.<\/p>\n Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky issued the final order approving the rate decrease on Monday.<\/p>\n \u201cI am pleased to approve a substantial rate cut of 6.9% for Florida\u2019s workers\u2019 compensation policies this upcoming year. This rate decrease directly translates to reduced operating costs for businesses, encouraging investment and growth throughout Florida\u2019s economy,\u201d Yaworsky said in a news release. \u201cThis also marks the ninth consecutive year of rate decreases for workers\u2019 compensation policies \u2014 more evidence of Florida\u2019s success in managing risk and maintaining a competitive insurance environment.\u201d<\/p>\n The decision came after a series of public hearings<\/a> on the rate proposal.<\/p>\n The Florida Chamber of Commerce was a key element in convincing the state to lower rates. Chamber officials said the latest reduction is part of a cumulative 78% decrease since the business group began lobbying for cuts and reforms in 2003, when Florida had the highest workers\u2019 compensation rates in the country.<\/p>\n Chamber officials applauded the latest decrease.<\/p>\n \u201cFactors influencing this year\u2019s rate filing include a continued reduction in both the frequency and severity of claims, which is also a national trend. This improvement is attributed to employers\u2019 ongoing commitment to enhancing workplace safety, which has reduced workplace injuries and facilitated quicker return-to-work processes for employees,\u201d the Chamber said in a statement.<\/p>\n \u2014 Drone patrol \u2014<\/p>\n School shootings remain a real fear for students and parents anytime they turn on the news \u2014 a constant and preventable tragedy. Maybe gun control is the answer. Or maybe it\u2019s \u2026 drones?<\/p>\n This week, Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced that the School Districts in Broward, Leon and Volusia will participate in the new \u201cCampus Guardian Angel Pilot Program,\u201d which aims to bring additional safety and security during active shootings.<\/p>\n The Campus Guardian Angel Program uses drones to distract shooters and provide real-time audio and video to guardians and law enforcement.<\/p>\n \u201cEnsuring students and teachers have a safe and secure learning environment is one of my top priorities as Commissioner. Florida remains the national leader in school safety because we continue to invest in solutions that protect students and enable rapid, coordinated responses. The Guardian Angel Program is an important step in expanding the safety tools available to our districts,\u201d Kamoutsas said.<\/p>\n The program is a $557,000 investment in safety and intends to ensure all schools have access to advanced, lifesaving technology that also helps law enforcement respond quickly and effectively.<\/p>\n \u201cAs we join the Campus Guardian Angel Pilot Program, Leon County Schools is embracing another layer of protection that enhances rapid response, real-time awareness and coordinated action,\u201d said Leon County School Board Chair Laurie Cox.<\/p>\n \u201cWe appreciate the state\u2019s commitment to equipping our District with advanced tools and look forward to this partnership helping ensure every campus remains a place of learning and safety.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Arrive Alive \u2014<\/p>\n Florida officials are launching the \u201cArrive Alive<\/a>\u201d campaign to encourage safe driving on state roads during the holiday season.<\/p>\n The Florida Highway Patrol and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles are reminding motorists to remain alert and follow traffic laws between Thanksgiving and New Year\u2019s Day. Simple steps such as driving responsibly, observing road signs and staying sober can save lives.<\/p>\n \u201cReckless and impaired driving are not just violations of the law \u2014 they are threats to the lives of every Floridian on the road,\u201d said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner.<\/p>\n \u201cThis holiday season, we are reminded that every decision behind the wheel carries consequences. Let us all choose patience over aggression, responsibility over risk, and remember that arriving alive means protecting not only yourself, but everyone sharing Florida\u2019s roads \u2014 today and every day.\u201d<\/p>\n FHP Col. Gary Howze said troopers across Florida are watching for motorists who exhibit erratic maneuvers on state roads and will be issuing citations: \u201cOur troopers see firsthand the devastating aftermath of drivers that choose distraction, unlawful speed or impairment over safety.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Shelter, not punishment \u2014<\/p>\n This week, Sen. Shevrin Jones of Miami Gardens and Rep. Daryl Campbell of Fort Lauderdale filed the \u201cSafe Shelter Act\u201d (SB 516\/HB 435) to address a gap in Florida law that punishes domestic violence survivors seeking refuge with children in tow.<\/p>\n If passed, the Democratic lawmakers\u2019 proposal would ensure domestic violence centers are officially recognized as safe and appropriate placements for children, closing a loophole that courts and agencies have often used against fleeing survivors.<\/p>\n \u201cThis legislation is a critical, long-overdue correction to a flawed system that has inadvertently penalized victims of domestic violence. By legally recognizing certified domestic violence shelters as appropriate placements for children, we are removing a barrier that forced parents to choose between their safety and their parental rights,\u201d Jones said. \u201cThis bill is fundamentally about ensuring that the law protects survivors, rather than punishing them for seeking refuge.\u201d<\/p>\n Specifically, the Safe Shelter Act would legally recognize certified domestic violence centers as valid temporary placements for children, waive in-person home study requirements for shelters, bar the Department of Children and Families from forcing a child to return to a home previously deemed unsafe, and clarify that safety \u2014 not procedural technicalities \u2014 governs placement decisions.<\/p>\n \u201cRight now, Florida law can force a parent to make an impossible choice \u2014 stay in an abusive home to keep your children or flee to safety and risk losing them. That is not justice, that is cruelty by omission. The Safe Shelter Act corrects a decades-old oversight and affirms what should be obvious: fleeing violence to protect your family is an act of courage, not abandonment,\u201d Campbell said.<\/p>\n \u2014Phoenix Rising backlash \u2014<\/p>\n Democrats from across the state are united in their opposition.<\/p>\n This week, House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa, Reps. Ashley V. Gantt of Miami, Angie Nixon of Jacksonville, Daryl Campbell of Fort Lauderdale, Yvonne Hinson of Gainesville, Mitch Rosenwald of Oakland Park, Felicia Robinson of Miami Gardens, Anna V. Eskamani of Orlando, Michael Gottlieb of Davie and Michele Rayner of St. Petersburg all signed a letter voicing their opposition to the recent vote to adopt the Heritage Foundation\u2019s \u201cPhoenix Declaration\u201d into Florida law.<\/p>\n Last Thursday, the Florida Board of Education voted unanimously to adopt and ratify the declaration in full.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is blatant indoctrination of Republican politics in our public-school systems. I am not only outraged that the Board unanimously passed this, but it is evident that they have abdicated their responsibilities to serve children and are now singularly focused on destroying democracy and intellectual freedom,\u201d Gantt said.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Board of Education is wholly compromised, and this is proof that racist, radical right-wing agendas being pushed into our schools is the goal. Our parents and children deserve an opportunity to have public servants who celebrate the rich diversity of Floridians instead of cowardly cronies who are attempting to strangle it with racist ideologies steeped in mediocrity and ignorance. Enough is enough.\u201d<\/p>\n The Phoenix Declaration outlines various controversial philosophies about education penned by the Heritage Foundation, including language encouraging a religious tradition-based and Western-centric core for teaching.<\/p>\n In their joint letter, the lawmakers wrote: \u201cThe Phoenix Declaration is a violation of our students\u2019 right to receive a quality education free of partisan bias. We demand the Florida Department of Education rescind this vote and cancel all plans on adopting the Phoenix Declaration into our public schools.\u201d<\/p>\n The Heritage Foundation is also known for its involvement in \u201cProject 2025,\u201d a political initiative to restructure state and federal government with right-wing ideologies \u2014 a divisive movement that President Donald Trump, then the GOP nominee, initially denied knowledge of before later reversing course.<\/p>\n \u2014 Turns out we\u2019re into it \u2014<\/p>\n Not so fast, eager politicians looking to make a populist splash.<\/p>\n Homeowners associations are a classic punchline \u2014 the stereotypical \u201cfascist-lite\u201d rule enforcers who seemingly need your lawn to look perfect for their life to have meaning. But according to new polling, Floridians have a soft spot for the Karens and Darrens on their cul-de-sac.<\/p>\n A new Tyson Group survey of Florida HOA homeowners, conducted Oct. 3-7 for the Chief Executive Officers of Management Companies, found that 80% enjoy living in their HOA, 61% say the benefits are worth the dues and 61% say they would choose HOA living again.<\/p>\n \u201cThis poll makes it crystal clear: Floridians increasingly value their HOAs and the quality of life they provide. Although the idea of abolishing HOAs may have made a few headlines, these numbers reflect a very different reality for the people who live in them,\u201d said Mark Anderson, Executive Director of CEOMC. \u201cHomeowners see their HOAs as essential to maintaining property values, resolving disputes and keeping taxes low.\u201d<\/p>\n HOAs are responsible for maintaining roads, drainage, landscaping and neighborhood standards for more than 6 million Florida homeowners.<\/p>\n The polling also shows that 72% agree removing HOAs would increase neighbor disputes over parking, noise and short-term rentals, and 76% believe banning HOAs would force local taxpayers to cover costs \u2014 such as roads and drainage \u2014 that neighborhoods already pay for through their associations.<\/p>\n The Tyson Group survey had a sample size of 1,000 Florida homeowners in an HOA. The results are weighted to reflect Florida\u2019s current demographics by age, gender, region and race\/ethnicity. The poll has a margin of error of +\/- 3%.<\/p>\n \u2014 Wheels up for storm season \u2014<\/p>\n Great news for Florida State Parks and those who love visiting them.<\/p>\n This week, it was announced that various parks across Florida are set up to receive four new strike team trailers to assist during hurricanes and natural disaster recovery. The effort comes through a joint partnership between the Florida State Parks Foundation and Florida Power & Light Company.<\/p>\n The trailers were funded by two grants totaling $215,000: $140,000 from the NextEra Energy Foundation and $75,000 from the Florida State Parks Foundation\u2019s Disaster Relief Fund.<\/p>\n \u201cTime and again, our Florida State Parks strike teams make us proud with their bravery, their resilience and their commitment to caring for their parks in the wake of a major storm. The Foundation is proud to provide these inspiring men and women with all the resources they need, and we are grateful to have FPL\u2019s NextEra Energy Foundation alongside us in this effort,\u201d said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation.<\/p>\n The trailers will serve as mobile headquarters during recovery missions. They can store utilities, vehicles, heavy equipment and portable generators \u2014 all essential during natural disasters and storm response. A similar partnership and purchase occurred in 2023 through the same organizations.<\/p>\n \u201cThese trailers make a huge difference for our strike teams, and we are so glad to have them. Every second counts when we are responding to a storm, and having a good, mobile base of operations ensures that our strike teams can do their jobs as safely, quickly and efficiently as possible, and ultimately reopen affected parks for visitors,\u201d said Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher.<\/p>\n This latest batch of trailers was announced back in 2024 as a response to the tough hurricane season marked by Helene and Milton.<\/p>\n \u201cTo support these response efforts, we\u2019re providing new trailers to help strike teams mobilize in the field,\u201d said Mike Sole, vice president of environmental services for NextEra Energy. \u201cFPL is proud to contribute to this important cause and help ensure our parks and communities are prepared when the next storm arrives.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 FAMU SJGC Strikes Gold \u2014<\/p>\n Florida A&M University (FAMU) is bringing home the gold yet again and showing what it means to have Rattler pride. Tally in the house!<\/p>\n This week, the FAMU School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (FAMU SJGC) celebrated its major accomplishments at the annual Florida Print Awards ceremony in Orlando. FAMU won \u201c10 Best of Category\u201d awards, 13 \u201cAwards of Excellence,\u201d and 43 honorable mentions, making it the most recognized school at the event.<\/p>\n \u201cRecognition from respected competitions not only boosts confidence but also enhances portfolios and r\u00e9sum\u00e9s, helping students stand out to employers and clients,\u201d said the SJGC\u2019s Graphic Communication Division Director Anosh Gill.<\/p>\n \u201cAwards provide exposure through publications and exhibitions, opening networking opportunities with industry professionals and potential job offers. Most importantly, they establish credibility early on, allowing students to enter the design community with recognition and momentum.\u201d<\/p>\n The competition featured groundbreaking achievements and innovations in print design and production, showcasing the best of what is to come in the creative advertising field for Florida\u2019s emerging talent. Most importantly, though, this competition showed FAMU\u2019s SJGC doesn\u2019t mess around, and that the door is open for these young creatives to step through and dominate.<\/p>\n These awards \u201cvalidate their creativity, skills and hard work, while giving them a competitive edge in their careers,\u201d said Gill.<\/p>\n Congratulations to all the winners and FAMU. Strike, strike and strike again with these great wins.<\/p>\n \u2014 Junie B. Jones \u2014<\/p>\n Gather the kids this weekend and take them to Florida State University (FSU) for a special theater treat.<\/p>\n Starting on Thursday, Nov. 20, and running until the end of the weekend, Sunday is FSU\u2019s School of Theatre presentation of \u201cJunie B. Jones, The Musical\u201d based on the iconic bestselling children\u2019s book series by Barbara Park in the Richard G. Fallon Theatre.<\/p>\n The story follows the titular Junie B. Jones as she navigates the ups and downs of growing up, including making new friends, developing talents, facing the obstacles of everyday life, and the enthusiasm\/humor lens through which she views the world.<\/p>\n \u201cThis show is packed with fun for everyone. The creators of \u2018Junie B. Jones, The Musical\u2019 beautifully capture the big emotions children experience and remind us how friendship, family and resilience help us overcome our insecurities,\u201d said the production\u2019s director Melissa Tarduno.<\/p>\n \u201cJunie B. represents a bit of all of us, proving that when we believe in ourselves, anything is possible. Big or small, you\u2019ll have a ball!\u201d<\/p>\n FSU School of Theater students Leah Joy Ifill and Gianna Weerasooriya split the role of Miss Jones, with Ellie Rae Dobleske, Patrick Melley, and Londyn Kirol rounding out the cast. Ryan Douglass, costumes by Diana Girtain, sound design by Alex Riggs, and lighting by Lindsay Kramer make up the scenic design.<\/p>\n Tickets are available at tickets.theatre.fsu.edu, and if you are curious about the rest of the season\u2019s shows, visit theatre.fsu.edu.<\/p>\n Break a leg to all the performers, and to the families in town, check out a feel-good book adapted to the theater, and support local art. To quote Marty McFly, \u201cyour kids are gonna love it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 TSC, U.N., D.C. \u2014<\/p>\n Hey Model U.N. fans. This one is for you because we know how die-hard you all were in high school and college.<\/p>\n This week, Tallahassee State College (TSC) placed at the National Model United Nations (NMUN) Conference in Washington, D.C. TSC represented Switzerland and won the \u201cDistinguished Delegation Award\u201d and two \u201cOutstanding Position Paper Awards.\u201d With these wins, TSC was placed among the highest performing delegations at an international conference featuring universities and colleges from across America and the world.<\/p>\n \u201cI couldn\u2019t be prouder of my team. The team has worked hard all semester, preparing for the D.C. Conference, and all of that hard work paid off,\u201d said the TSC MUN\u2019s faculty adviser, Edward Duggan.<\/p>\n The TSC delegates that participated in the event across several commuters included the TSC MUN President, Grace Leon, as well as Justin Kendrick, Jonah Salazar, Nicole Ordonez, Reese Whitehead, Hailee Spires, Avery Tatum, Kevin Diez, Magrathea Burke, Emery Benson, and Grantland Waggoner.<\/p>\n Students prepared for the conference over the past few months by hosting weekly study groups on Model U.N. rules and procedures and specialized writing workshops. TSC students even held a joint simulation conference with Valdosta State University to practice and prepare.<\/p>\n TSC students, after their wins, also took time to explore and tour the U.S. Capitol and did the tourist things like visiting historic landmarks and going to various museums.<\/p>\n Congratulations to all those involved and to TSC as a whole. Now let\u2019s see the real U.N. actually do something for once.<\/p>\n \u2014 Fore! a good cause \u2014<\/p>\n First Tee \u2013 Tallahassee<\/a> is asking the community to step up to the tee box this month. The youth golf nonprofit has been nominated for a GiveTLH.com<\/a> grant worth up to $10,000, with winners decided by daily online voting.<\/p>\n Supporters can cast one vote per day per IP address through Nov. 28 at 11:59 p.m. WCTV is also helping push the effort with on-air promos and QR codes to make voting quick for viewers on the go.<\/p>\n The local First Tee chapter serves kids and teens across Leon, Gadsden and Jefferson counties, using golf as a vehicle to teach character and life skills.<\/p>\n The nonprofit\u2019s mission is to provide learning opportunities and educational programs that promote honesty, integrity, confidence, respect and other life-enhancing values \u2014 all while kids are learning how to navigate a fairway.<\/p>\n Programs are offered both on campus and on the course, from in-school lessons at Sabal Palm Elementary to sessions at SouthWood Golf Course and other facilities.<\/p>\n Leaders say the GiveTLH dollars would help expand access, add programs and reach more families who might otherwise be able to afford organized sports. For them, every daily click is another kid getting a shot at the game.<\/p>\n \u2014 Wicked: Sisu Dreams \u2014<\/p>\n Movies. You know them. We love them. And it\u2019s time for the inside scoop on what\u2019s what this week on all things film.<\/p>\n Without further ado.<\/p>\n \u201cNow You See Me: Now You Don\u2019t\u201d opened to $21 million this weekend, making it the third film in the franchise to break $20 million in its debut. Let\u2019s see how the drop-off and word-of-mouth hold up. \u201cThe Running Man\u201d drastically underperformed for an Edgar Wright, Glen Powell-led movie and opened to $16 million. Although the film is fun, we imagine it\u2019ll find its audience. \u201cPredator: Badlands\u201d continues to do well domestically and earned another $13 million for its total gross. Now onto the new goods.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Ron DeSantis grants extra holiday leave as state workers welcome added seasonal downtime.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Operation Home for the Holidays rescues 22 missing Florida children through a coordinated statewide effort.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Federal sweep across North Florida results in 46 indictments spanning three divisions during shutdown.<\/p>\n<\/a>Florida jobless claims fall sharply as holiday hiring drives one of the year\u2019s most significant weekly drops.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Tallahassee man sentenced to 15 years as federal agents seize fentanyl and multiple other drugs.<\/p>\n<\/a>Florida approves a 6.9% workers\u2019 comp rate cut as employers see continued cost relief.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Florida launches drone-based Guardian Angel program to boost school safety and aid rapid response.<\/p>\n<\/a>Florida launches Arrive Alive campaign urging safe, sober driving on state roads through holidays.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Shevrin Jones and Daryl Campbell push the Safe Shelter Act protecting fleeing families.<\/p>\n<\/a>Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas faces backlash as Democrats condemn adoption of Phoenix Declaration.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Survey shows Floridians overwhelmingly support HOAs, citing stability, property values and fewer neighborhood disputes.<\/p>\n<\/a>Florida State Parks add new strike team trailers to boost hurricane response and disaster recovery.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>FAMU\u2019s journalism and graphic communication school dominates Florida Print Awards with sweeping honors.<\/p>\n<\/a>FSU presents Junie B. Jones musical as families gather for a lively weekend theater experience.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Tallahassee State College wins top Model U.N. honors in D.C., earning major delegation awards.<\/p>\n<\/a>First Tee Tallahassee seeks votes for a grant to expand youth golf and life-skills programs.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n