In one year of planning, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Center has pulled off an extraordinary feat: It has turned the heart of downtown into a magical Winter festival.

“It’s amazing. I had no idea just what the transformation would be,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer during a preview for the media and local officials this week for the first-ever Frontyard Holiday Festival supported by AdventHealth.

Fire pits glow. Singers perform on stage. Fake snow falls down for the Florida kids who don’t know the real thing. Holiday booths sell coquito, sandwiches and hearty snacks. It’s easy to forget that the 408 traffic is in the backdrop or ignore an ambulance siren going by. Instead, you get lost in Santa greeting children and the music on stage from Central Florida’s talent.

The free festival, which is officially open, runs 28 days through Jan. 4 and will feature 80 live performances, holiday movies, nightly tree lightings and more. The slate of performers includes opera singers, high school choirs, jazz performers, Latin Night and more. The schedule is available here.

About 300,000 people are expected to attend — a boon to the city’s economy especially since one 1 of every 4 Dr. Phillips Center visitors typically comes from outside Orange County, said Orange County Commissioner Mike Scott.

“Most importantly, this festival builds connections,” Scott said. “This festival creates a cultural and economic ripple that extends well beyond the borders of downtown.”

The performing arts center has hosted “Lion King,” “Hamilton” and more during its 10 years in business. But during the pandemic, it began using the space out front — its “front yard” — in innovative ways, said Kathy Ramsberger, President and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center.

Keeping patrons spread apart in individual seat boxes, Dr. Phillips held concerts outdoors during the pandemic.

Ramsberger said the Dr. Phillips Center purposefully has chosen not to develop the land in order to keep the space for people to come together.

“Hopefully, this will grow across the street to City Hall, down the street, over to Orange County administration building, up and down Orange Avenue, and the entire city will be connected with something that the City of Orlando started to celebrate Christmas and the holidays,” Ramsberger said.

Turkey time is over (even if your leftovers say otherwise). It’s officially the time of year to start decking the halls and getting your “fa-la-la-la-la” on. While we’re not necessarily advocating fruitcake and figgy pudding, it is the season when holiday spirit is encouraged — and tolerable — unlike those freaks who celebrate right after Halloween.

There are plenty of ways to get in the proper holiday mood. You can watch Christmas classics like the Oscar-nominated “It’s a Wonderful Life,” or “Die Hard,” which is absolutely a holiday go-to. You can put up decorations, break out the Advent calendars, build gingerbread houses, bury yourself under thousands of classic songs and coffeehouse Michael Bublé tracks and, of course, stroll through the many cities and towns that transform their downtown into twinkling holiday displays.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, Tallahassee is home to — and loves — all kinds of holiday cheer. And if you’re looking for the perfect way to kick off the festivities, the Tallahassee Winter Festival has you covered.

Today from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., downtown Tallahassee will host the 39th annual “Winter Festival – a Celebration of Lights, Music and the Arts.” It’s a Tallahassee staple that is best enjoyed with crisp seasonal weather and the people you love. And of course, there are plenty of activities for everyone.

“We are excited to welcome everyone downtown this weekend & celebrate the season,” the City of Tallahassee said in a social media post.

“Candy Cane Lane” in McCarty Park is open to all ages. Open from 3 to 10 p.m., the magical holiday display is perfect for strolling, snapping photos and soaking up the vibes. If you miss it this weekend, don’t worry — it’s open nightly from 6 to 9 p.m. through Dec. 14. The lights alone are enough to get even the grouchiest elf into the Ho-Ho-Ho spirit.

Throughout the night, live entertainment will feature local bands, dancers, actors and more across several locations: the intersection of College Avenue and Monroe Street, Ponce de Leon Park, the showmobile on Adams Street near City Hall and the intersection of College Avenue and Duval Street.

Vendors will be spread throughout downtown offering food, beer, arts and crafts — so bring your wallet, an empty stomach and room for a local lager.

The official lighting ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. on the platform at South Monroe Street and Park Avenue at Bloxham Park. If you’re looking for the moment to kick off the holidays, the flip of the switch that floods downtown with light should do the trick.

For those who love to get their steps in, the annual “Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run” begins at 6:15 p.m. Registration closed on Dec. 5, but spectators can still cheer on the festive runners making their way around the 1.5-mile course. It’s a Tallahassee classic — and there’s always next year if you miss it.

Then comes the belle of the ball: the Nighttime Holiday Parade. Starting at 7:15 p.m., 65 parade entries and floats will make their way down Monroe Street, turning the holiday spirit up to 11 (“it goes to 11”). Arrive early if you want a good viewing spot.

And for the Grinches in the room: yes, road closures will be extensive and downtown traffic will be a mess. Plan ahead — or avoid downtown entirely on Saturday.

Don’t forget: a couple of weeks from now, on Thursday, Dec. 18, Dorothy B. Oven Park will host “Elf Night” from 5:30 to 8 p.m., a beloved walk-through event featuring more than 150,000 lights transforming Tallahassee into a winter wonderland — despite the lack of snow… or winter.

There is a chance of rain, so monitor the City of Tallahassee’s website and social media for potential updates or changes. Happy Holidays, everyone!

___

Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida’s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics.

But first, the “Takeaway 5” — the Top 5 stories from the week that was:

—Take 5—

Forward march — Four proposed constitutional amendments to overhaul Florida’s property tax framework are now one stop from the House floor after clearing another Committee hearing, where Democrats, local officials and policy advocates again warned of adverse impacts. After three hours of discussion, Republican lawmakers in the State Affairs Committee pushed through the quartet of proposals, which varied in scope. All the proposals would prohibit local governments from reducing property taxes that fund law enforcement below current levels and would also exempt school-related property taxes. Those carve-outs would not extend to fire rescue and funding for other first-responder-related services — such as 911 dispatchers and emergency medical technicians — may not be protected, depending on how the Legislature implements the changes. HJR 201, HJR 205, HJR 209 and HJR 211 all passed 18-7 on a party-line vote. They will go next to the Ways and Means Committee, after which they will head to the House floor. None of the bills has a Senate companion.

Mid-decade map madness — The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting is beginning to consider what a new mid-decade map might look like. Chair Mike Redondo called Thursday’s meeting an educational “listening and learning” session, in which Committee members would be educated on how redistricting works. Redondo, who was the only Committee member to speak Thursday, elicited laughter from the crowd when he said the process was divorced from politics, given partisan processes in California favoring Democrats and in Texas favoring Republicans. “I’m not naïve to the fact that there is much public discourse around mid-decade redistricting. Let me be very clear: Our work as a Committee and as a legislative body is not directed by the work of other states or partisan gamesmanship,” he said. The new map, should it be devised, is expected to make Florida’s congressional delegation even more Republican-leaning by considering which districts could be determined by race.

Nope — Senate President Ben Albritton said his chamber has no plans right now to work on mid-decade redistricting. Albritton sent a memo late Wednesday afternoon on the eve of the House’s redistricting meeting. Albritton’s memo comes as the White House is pressuring red states to redraw their maps to maximize the Republican advantage ahead of the Midterms. Gov. Ron DeSantis is also pushing for Florida to get more congressional seats. DeSantis said this week he plans, for now, to leave it to the Legislature for a mid-decade redistricting. Albritton left the door open to the Senate changing its posture ahead of a possible Spring Special Session. “As we move forward, I am continuing to monitor legal developments that could impact Florida and will certainly keep you apprised of any updates to the status I have outlined here,” he added.

Hmm … — A state agency is repaying the federal government a portion of $10 million of the Medicaid money that had been diverted to Hope Florida and spent on political purposes, said Rep. Alex Andrade, a fierce critic of First Lady Casey DeSantis’ charity. In Andrade’s views, it deepens the financial impact of Hope Florida’s scandal. Instead of $10 million in taxpayer money wasted, the cost is now $16 million, Andrade said. “It means James stole $16 million from taxpayers,” said Andrade, taking a shot at Attorney General James Uthmeier, who previously chaired the Keep Florida Clean committee that received millions of dollars tied to the tainted Hope Florida funds. The $10 million under scrutiny was part of a $67 million settlement from state Medicaid contractor Centene. Earlier, DeSantis described the $10 million as “a cherry on top” in the settlement, arguing it wasn’t truly from Medicaid money. Andrade argued Thursday that new state records prove otherwise.

Rollback? — The House Judiciary Committee voted 13-7 to advance HB 133, which would change the 2018 law raising the minimum wage to 21. The Legislature passed the measure after the Parkland school shooting, when a 19-year-old former student killed 17 students and staff with an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon on Valentine’s Day 2018. But as Florida has shifted even further to the right and Republicans who backed the 2018 law have hit term limits and left the Legislature, some current GOP lawmakers are moving to revisit those 2018 restrictions. Tuesday’s vote fell along party lines, except that Republican Rep. Hillary Cassel, a former Democrat, voted against it. The bill sparked passionate debate among young activists. Most people who spoke at Tuesday’s hearing opposed HB 133.

— Bill of Rights AI style —

When the Constitution was first brought into our nation’s history in 1787, James Madison, the eventual fourth President of the United States, felt there needed to be 10 amendments to protect the citizens of the newly founded country — what we now know as the Bill of Rights.

Move over, Madison — the 46th Governor of Florida has the floor.

This week, DeSantis outlined his plan to protect Floridians when it comes to artificial intelligence by establishing the first “Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights.” That announcement came alongside his proposal to stop Floridians from “footing” the bills for AI data centers and to allow local governments to reject their development in their towns.

“Today, I proposed new legislation on artificial intelligence and AI data centers to protect Floridians’ privacy, security and quality of life. Our AI proposal will establish an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights to define and safeguard Floridians’ rights — including data privacy, parental controls, consumer protections, and restrictions on AI use of an individual’s name, image or likeness without consent,” said DeSantis.

Some highlights in the proposed “AI Bill of Rights” include reenacting protections Floridians have against “deepfakes,” prohibiting AI from using a person’s name, image or likeness, requiring companies to notify customers when they are interacting with AI, ensuring that personal or work data inputted into AI is protected and private, and limiting insurance companies from using AI for claims.

DeSantis’ data center proposal includes preventing utilities from charging Floridians for AI power use, ensuring there are no subsidies for Big Tech, giving local governments the authority to stop development of AI centers, and protecting Florida’s water and natural resources.

— Way of water —

In Florida, we love our nature and, of course, our water — all of it. Salt, fresh, for drinking or for observing. Florida and water go hand in hand.

This week in Tampa, Gov. DeSantis announced that more than $112 million in grants will be awarded to improve water quality and quantity across the state. Of that, $50 million will fund 14 “alternative water supply projects,” another $50 million will support 23 projects aimed at restoring and protecting Florida’s natural freshwater springs and the remaining $12 million-plus will fund 16 projects designed to detect, prevent and mitigate algal blooms — an infamous threat to Florida waters.

“My administration has made historic investments in protecting our water resources. Florida is a leader in water resource protection, and we will continue to deliver results and act as responsible stewards of our resources,” DeSantis said.

The “Alternative Water Supply” investments are expected to help produce more than 94 million gallons of new water per day once operational. The spring restoration projects focus on enhancing flow and improving water quality, including wastewater upgrades that are projected to reduce total nitrogen by more than 100,000 pounds per year.

“The funding announced today will help communities secure reliable water supplies, improve water quality and better respond to environmental challenges. These investments reflect our commitment to protecting the resources that support our economy and our way of life,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert.

As for the algal bloom prevention funding, the 16 supported projects are intended to expand current response teams’ abilities to provide rapid mitigation during bloom events by adding tools, vendors and scientific capabilities.

“These projects integrate real-time monitoring, predictive modeling and field-scale treatment systems to improve how we forecast bloom conditions and implement rapid mitigation strategies. The result is a more data-driven, adaptive approach to protecting Florida’s aquatic ecosystems,” said Florida Chief Science Officer Mark Rains.

— Taking tech to task —

Attorney General Uthmeier is subpoenaing a global technology network and smartphone provider as part of what he says is an investigation into possible connections to the Chinese Communist Party.

Uthmeier said in a news release that he has issued an investigative subpoena to TP-Link Systems Inc., looking into the company’s cybersecurity practices, handling of U.S. consumer data and supply-chain infrastructure. The California-based company sells Wi-Fi routers for home and business networks, among other tech products.

The subpoena demands that TP-Link Systems officials turn over extensive documents regarding the company’s corporate structure, software development, manufacturing practices, data handling and evidence supporting the company’s security claims.

“Floridians deserve to know the truth about the security of the products they bring into their homes,” Uthmeier said. “If a company is going to make claims about their cybersecurity or foreign relationship practices, then they had better be accurate. We will not allow Floridians to be misled into handing their personal data to the Chinese Communist Party.”

Several U.S. government agencies have supported banning future sales of the company’s home routers due to its ties to China. Some of those agencies have claimed the company poses a national security risk, according to a report in The Washington Post. U.S. Department of Commerce officials have been among the most vocal.

But TP-Link has defended its practices.

“TP-Link vigorously disputes any allegation that its products present national security risks to the United States,” Ricca Silverio, a spokeswoman for TP-Link Systems, said in a statement published in The Washington Post report. “TP-Link is a U.S. company committed to supplying high-quality and secure products to the U.S. market and beyond.”

— Sentence secured —

A Volusia County man who taught at a private school was sentenced this week to 135 years in prison after being convicted of possession of child pornography and sexual contact with an animal.

David Robert McKeown, 47, was arrested in June by the Holly Hill Police Department after the agency received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). McKeown was a sixth grade teacher at United Brethren in Christian (UBIC) Academy, a private elementary, middle and high school in Holly Hill.

“The abuse and trauma this predator inflicted is sick, and he deserves every moment of this sentence,” said Uthmeier. “We will always seek the longest sentence possible for anyone who harms innocent children or defenseless animals. Thanks to Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Emily Frazier and the Holly Hill Police Department, this criminal has been brought to justice and will not be allowed to harm another child or animal again.”

The investigation into McKeown found that he used artificial intelligence to create child sexual abuse material (CSAM) with pictures of real children, some of whom may have attended the school where he was a teacher, according to an Attorney General news release.

Investigators say McKeown was disseminating, downloading and communicating with users on the Discord social media platform while connected to the UBIC Academy Wi-Fi service. They say he shared 19 images of CSAM and another nine images of himself engaging in sexual acts with a family pet. There were also videos depicting sexual activity with a family pet.

— Ingoglia goes all in —

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia is proposing legislation targeting undocumented migrants in the state and preventing them from receiving driver’s licenses, workers’ compensation coverage and other privileges.

Ingoglia held a news conference in St. Augustine, where he detailed the proposed measures.

“It’s about time we put our foot down and continue to put our foot down,” Ingoglia said during the event on Wednesday. “A lot of times we’re oblivious, and we were ignorant as to the havoc illegal immigrants were causing in our communities.”

Ingoglia said he’ll propose legislation to lawmakers that would close “loopholes” for migrants in the state who have no legal documentation. That could include blocking the ability to open accounts with banks, eliminating any availability of car insurance and restricting workers’ compensation for migrants without documentation, among other proposals.

The auto insurance provision would likely prevent undocumented migrants from getting driver’s licenses in Florida, Ingoglia added.

Ingoglia’s advocacy comes on the heels of a wreck on Aug. 12 on a portion of the Turnpike near Fort Pierce. Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officials say the driver of a truck was attempting to make a U-turn in an unauthorized area of the Turnpike. When the semi entered the U-turn, it collided with a minivan carrying several passengers. Three people inside the van were killed.

The driver of the truck, Harjinder Singh, survived and was charged with three counts of vehicular homicide. FHP and Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles officials said Singh entered the U.S. illegally in 2018 through Mexico.

— Seal of approval —

Several Florida prosecutors are throwing their support behind CFO Ingoglia, giving his campaign a lift as they point to his record on public safety and financial oversight.

The announcement highlights Ingoglia’s work backing policies that strengthen criminal accountability, support prosecutors and tighten financial safeguards tied to the CFO’s responsibilities. State Attorneys said his approach reflects a respect for the rule of law and the demands of overseeing taxpayer dollars.

In all, 13 State Attorneys are endorsing Ingoglia. They are Thomas Bakkedahl of the 19th Judicial Circuit, Bruce Bartlett of the 6th Circuit, Larry Basford of the 14th Circuit, Ed Brodsky of the 12th Circuit, John Durrett of the 3rd Circuit, Amira Fox of the 20th Circuit, Bill Gladson of the 5th Circuit, Brian Haas of the 10th Circuit, Brian Kramer of the 8th Circuit, R.J. Larizza of the 7th Circuit, Ginger Bowden Madden of the 1st Circuit, William Scheiner of the 18th Circuit and Dennis Ward of the 16th Circuit.

“I’m honored to earn the endorsement of Florida’s top prosecutors who work day in and day out to protect Floridians,” Ingoglia said in a statement. “As CFO, I will continue to champion law-and-order, hold bad actors accountable, and ensure that our state’s finances remain transparent and secure. Thank you for the trust you have placed in me.”

Several prosecutors offered public statements underscoring why they view him as the right fit for the role.

“Blaise Ingoglia has consistently demonstrated that he is tough on crime and unwavering in his commitment to the safety of Florida’s families,” Gladson said. “His strong stance on law-and-order solutions and commitment to protecting taxpayers make him the right choice for Florida. Looking forward to the leadership he’ll bring to the office of the CFO.”

Fox linked his fiscal priorities to broader public safety goals.

“Financial integrity and public safety go hand in hand,” Fox said. “Blaise Ingoglia is a solid choice for Chief Financial Officer because he understands that cracking down on wasteful spending and enforcing strong financial protections are essential parts of keeping Florida strong.”

Ingoglia, originally from New York, entered state politics in 2007 after producing “Government Gone Wild,” a series of seminars criticizing government spending. He was elected to the Florida House in 2014 and later served as Chair of the Republican Party of Florida. He won a Florida Senate seat in 2020.

Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Ingoglia as CFO in July 2025. He faces a crowded field in the race for a full term, including Republican challengers Frank William Collige, Benjamin Horbowy and Rep. Kevin Steele, as well as no-party candidate John Daniel Smith.

— Instagram of the week —

— Alaska bound! —

One of Florida State University’s BFA film school grads — and one of Florida Politics’ behind-the-scenes MVPs — is heading 4,500+ miles away to Alaska next week as his new acclaimed short film “Ts and Ps” continues its festival run.

The political satire written, directed, produced and co-composed by Liam Fineout screens Dec. 11 in the Short Comedy Block at the Anchorage International Film Festival, one of MovieMaker magazine’s “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.”

(We assume it’s also one of the coldest ones in the world.)

Starring southern locals Haley Utnehmer and Scott Wrenn, the film follows a headstrong debate coach scrambling to respond after a mass shooting occurs minutes before a televised gun control debate. “Ts and Ps” was conceived in 2022, shot in Tallahassee in 2024, completed in the Summer of 2025, and premiered last month at the Key West Film Festival, another of MovieMaker’s Top 25 picks.

The title is a reference to the expression “Thoughts and Prayers,” and it is a tried-and-true response by many politicians after mass shootings.

The short is 17 minutes long and told with an unabridged, chaotic, comedic, “behind the scenes” vision and style, guided in part by the stressful jazz score composed by both Fineout and his frequent collaborator and lifelong friend, Aidan Murtha.

Fineout says Alaska will be a drastically different backdrop from Key West, but no less meaningful.

“Key West Film Festival was truly amazing for the official premiere of ‘Ts and Ps.’ It is such a beautiful place, and I had a great time. The Anchorage International Film Festival will be weather-wise the polar opposite, but I still cannot wait,” he said, adding, “It’s an honor and privilege to be selected to Alaska’s biggest film festival, which is known for its fantastic selection of international and Alaskan native films. The views alone will be worth freezing for, and I can’t wait to see where Ts and Ps take us next.

“It saddens me that ‘Ts and Ps’ subject matter is still relevant despite how long it’s been in the making. But that’s the exact reason for telling this story. We need change and gun control. Thank you to the amazing cast and crew who made this possible — Alaska bound!”

The other producers on the project include fellow FSU film grads Pierce Ryan and Sophie Rizzo, and FIU grad and filmmaker Racquel Lewis. This will be the second stop in what Fineout expects to be a longer festival circuit into 2026 and beyond.

— Raising the bar —

We all want Florida’s nurses to be as qualified as possible — for our safety and theirs.

This week, Palm City Republican Rep. Toby Overdorf’s legislation, HB 121, which would establish new requirements for pre-licensure nursing education programs, passed unanimously in its final Committee stop, the House Health & Human Services Committee.

With Florida ranking 50th in first-time NCLEX passage rates for new nurses, it may be time to reevaluate the curriculum and standards at these pre-licensure nursing programs.

“Florida demands the absolute highest standards in everything we do — from our universities to our beaches to the doctors and nurses we trust with our lives and the lives of our families. Dead last is unacceptable. Mediocrity is not an option when someone’s mother, child, or grandparent is on the operating table. This bill doesn’t just raise the bar, it resets it at the level Floridians deserve: the very best in the nation,” Overdorf said.

HB 121 would mandate standardized admission and evaluation criteria across all programs, require a comprehensive exit exam that reflects a student’s likelihood of passing the NCLEX, require programs to provide remediation for students who don’t pass and grant the Department of Health more authority to shut down or correct underperforming programs.

“These are not suggestions. These are the non-negotiable standards used by top-performing states; standards Florida will now match and exceed. Florida patients, health care providers, and future nurses have waited long enough. The bar is about to go up, way up,” Overdorf added.

— High credit —

Floridians can surely (don’t call me Shirley) agree that we want all of our high school students to have a fulfilling and meaningful education and to graduate, no matter who they are.

But the truth is that some students with special needs struggle to fulfill the Florida law that mandates physical education credits for graduation.

Enter SB 556 and HB 453.

Sen. Lori Berman, a Boca Raton Democrat, and Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, a Highland Beach Republican, have filed the “Requirements for Standard High School Diploma.” The bipartisan legislation would allow students with disabilities to meet their high school physical education requirement by participating in Special Olympics.

Current law already allows exceptions, such as students meeting the PE requirement through participation in extracurricular or music activities like marching band. The bill would extend similar flexibility to students with special needs by allowing involvement in Special Olympics to count as a physical education credit.

“We already recognize that activities like marching band provide the physical activity necessary for a well-rounded education, and it is time we extend that same logic to our students with special needs. SB 556 ensures that students with disabilities are given credit for the hard work, teamwork, and physical training they undertake in the Special Olympics,” Berman said.

And don’t worry, naysayers — there’s a way to ensure actual physical activity, unlike, per se, the popular online HOPE PE courses in Florida. The Individualized Education Program (IEP) team would determine whether each student is sufficiently participating in Special Olympics activities based on their abilities to receive high school credit.

The bill could also reduce expenses for traditional PE programs, which often must secure specialized staff and equipment for students with disabilities. Allowing Special Olympics participation to fulfill the PE credit would help schools manage costs while ensuring students work with trained professionals who can provide safe, appropriate physical activity at each student’s own pace.

“There is nothing more important than supporting and encouraging strong academic performance while promoting inclusive opportunities in sports and physical activity,” Gossett-Seidman said. “This bill advances both goals by empowering differently abled students to participate and excel at their highest level. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to achieve their highest goals, both in the classroom and on the playing field.”

— Rep. Holiday Drive —

It might be lovely weather for a sleigh ride together, but it’s also the giving season — a time to help those in need. During the 2025 holiday season, Rep. Allison Tant of House District 9 is partnering with Family Promise of the Big Bend to support its Christmas collection drive.

The drive will take place on December 16 at RedEye Coffee’s Midtown location (next to the Whataburger) from 9 a.m. to noon.

“These families are working hard to get back on their feet, and with your help, we can ensure their holidays are filled with comfort and care,” Tant said in an online statement.

A wide range of items is needed: pillows and pillowcases, deodorant, shampoo, gift cards from major retailers such as Target, Walmart and Ross, and clothing, including coats, sweaters and hoodies. A complete list of suggested donations is available in the graphic above.

All donated items will go to children and teens staying with Family Promise, the region’s only shelter dedicated to housing families with children.

“Whether it’s a small gift or a bag full of items, every donation makes a difference. Let’s rally together to make this season brighter for the families who need it most… I hope to see you on the 16th,” Tant added in the official email.

If you can’t make the event but still want to contribute, you can donate directly to Family Promise of the Big Bend here.

Happy holidays — and remember, everyone deserves the most wonderful time of the year, no matter their circumstances, and you can help make that happen.

— Keeping it low key —

Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, Mr. $100 bill himself, once said that only two things are certain: death and taxes. Well, at least in Florida, we have some good news on the latter.

This week, the Florida Department of Revenue announced that approximately 65% of Florida employers will pay the lowest possible reemployment tax rate in 2026 — marking the 11th consecutive year employers will pay a 0.1% rate. Those contributions help fund programs that assist unemployed Floridians in finding work.

“Eleven years of the lowest possible reemployment tax rate is a testimony to the strength of Florida’s workforce and economy. This low tax rate gives employers greater freedom to grow their businesses,” said Florida Department of Revenue Executive Director Jim Zingale.

In Florida, employers will continue to pay a percentage only on the first $7,000 of wages, making the state one of just four in the nation with that wage base. All other 46 states set a higher threshold. Reemployment taxes fund “Florida’s Reemployment Assistance Trust Fund,” which currently holds more than $4.8 billion to help job seekers.

“Florida businesses directly benefit from this stable and predictable tax environment because it allows employers to reinvest more capital into growth, innovation and workforce development. Advancing our low-tax and business-friendly climate is critical to remaining competitive in our target industries and ultimately supporting Florida’s job seekers and job creators,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.

For more information about the reemployment assistance tax rate, visit FloridaRevenue.com.

— Presidential aura farming —

A presidential visit and photo op just took place in Central Florida.

This week, Florida A&M University and the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) welcomed FAMU President Marva B. Johnson to the FAMU Brooksville Agricultural & Environmental Research Station (BAERS), a pivotal agricultural research center and institution for environmental stewardship.

The station was established in 1932 by Col. Raymond Robins, who donated 3,800 acres to create an agricultural research facility. It operated from 1929 to 2012 under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service before being transferred to FAMU in October 2015.

FAMU is one of only two land-grant universities in Florida, placing responsibility on the institution to provide practical agricultural and scientific education, conduct national research and address statewide challenges facing farmers, families and underserved communities.

“I am committed to ensuring that all FAMU campuses are aligned and mission-focused so that we operate as one FAMU to uplift the communities we serve. The BAERS campus is one of our greatest assets to expand our research footprint as we enhance FAMU’s presence in Central Florida’s agriculture–urban corridor,” Johnson said.

BAERS is currently working to develop itself as a regional innovation hub that connects agriculture and environmental science, with initiatives such as water quality research, youth STEM education, carbon sequestration, biodiversity monitoring, economic development, community wellness and more.

“As we continue to elevate our research enterprise, BAERS plays a pivotal role in expanding CAFS’ capacity to address Florida’s most pressing agricultural and environmental challenges. Our work here strengthens the university’s land-grant mission and creates new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and student success,” said G. Dale Wesson, dean and director of Land-Grant Programs for CAFS.

Ramdeo Seepaul, recently appointed BAERS executive director, is looking to expand the station’s reach while maintaining its focus on resource-efficient agriculture, soil health, livestock systems, ecosystem restoration, specialty crops and workforce development — the areas BAERS is best known for.

“FAMU’s land-grant mission is alive and thriving at BAERS. We remain focused on delivering research and outreach that directly support Florida’s agricultural communities and natural resources,” Seepaul said.

Whether in Tallahassee or in the middle of Central Florida, conducting field research, FAMU faculty, administration, staff and students continue to strike, strike and strike again with academic excellence.

— FSU Fall grads —

It’s that time of year when Winter graduates are getting ready to say goodbye to their alma mater and begin their journey into the real world — or, if they’re scared, continue pursuing higher education.

At the end of this Fall semester on December 12, Florida State University (FSU) will award 2,982 degrees: 1,946 bachelor’s degrees, 811 master’s and specialist degrees, 112 doctoral degrees, 5 law degrees, 106 Juris master’s degrees and 2 LLM degrees. More than 2,000 graduates are expected to make their way to the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center to celebrate by walking across the stage, shaking hands and tossing their caps toward the sky.

Of course, commencement speakers need to unite graduates and their families — because waiting two hours to hear one name isn’t always thrilling. A good orator is essential.

At the 2 p.m. ceremony — which includes graduates from the Dedman College of Hospitality; Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship; College of Applied Studies; College of Motion Picture Arts; FAMU-FSU College of Engineering; College of Social Sciences & Public Policy; College of Business; College of Music; and Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health and Human Sciences — Rep. Lawrence McClure will serve as speaker.

First elected in 2017 in House District 68, McClure currently chairs the House Budget Committee and serves as the alternating Chair of the Joint Legislative Budget Commission — indeed, a man with influence on the inside.

At the 7 p.m. ceremony, the speaker needs no introduction for FSU fans: Coach J. Leonard Hamilton will address graduates from the colleges of Medicine, Fine Arts, Communication and Information, Law, Nursing, Criminology and Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Arts and Sciences.

Head coach of FSU basketball for 23 years, Hamilton is the winningest coach in program history and has led the Noles to an NCAA Elite Eight appearance, three Sweet 16 berths and the program’s first ACC regular-season championship.

Congratulations to all the future Noles — and may you enjoy the fandom of this terrible football team for life.

— TSC Eagles fly off —

The weather is steadily dropping, which means a lot of things are wrapping up. It’s simply that time of year — whether it’s wrapping gifts, closing out the calendar or watching higher education students look forward to (or dread) graduation.

While not as popular or traditional as spring commencement, the end of the Fall semester still sees many students across the nation take their final steps as students and their first as postgrads — aka unemployed. We’re kidding … kind of. This week, on Thursday, Tallahassee State College (TSC) welcomed 2,348 new alumni to the Eagle flock during its commencement ceremony at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

And as anyone who’s sat through a graduation knows, the speakers matter. TSC featured remarks from Student Government Association President for 2025–26 Bryan Bacallao and keynote speaker Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas, Commissioner of Education and a member of the Florida Cabinet.

“We applaud our graduates for reaching this milestone and look forward to celebrating their success during our fall ceremonies,” said TSC President Jim Murdaugh.

TSC also held a series of special events for specific groups of graduates, including the “Veterans Cord and Coin Ceremony” and the “Healthcare Professions Pinning Ceremony,” both held the day prior. Over the next two weeks, the “Workforce Development Healthcare Pinning” and the “Florida Public Safety Institute Graduations” (law enforcement graduation) will take place for others crossing their finish lines as well.

Congratulations to all the TSC graduates — and wherever your next chapter takes you, Godspeed.

— Burn ban —

If you’re residing in the Leon County area, you’ve surely noticed the gloomy, rainy, overcast weather that’s been slowly dipping in temperature — unless you’ve been inside all week with the blinds closed, which we wouldn’t judge you for.

But despite the recent rain, Leon County has extended its countywide temporary ban on burns due to ongoing extreme drought conditions that continue to pose an elevated fire risk. While it may be inconvenient now, the ban is in place to help protect lives and property.

“With rain in the upcoming forecast, our County experts will be closely reviewing conditions and the need for any further extension of the burn ban, and we are hopeful that conditions will be safer by next week. Recent brush and wildfires in neighboring counties show just how dry our region remains, and we are grateful for the community’s cooperation and caution so far,” said Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban.

“We ask everyone to remain vigilant and follow the burn ban guidance so our first responders can continue protecting our community during these challenging conditions. Extending this temporary burn ban for one more week remains a necessary, expert-recommended step to safeguard lives, homes and property throughout Leon County.”

The ban remains in place until 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 10, unless extended or rescinded. That means no burning of yard debris (leaves, branches, vegetation), no land-clearing fires, no campfires, bonfires or fire pits on public or private property, no burning of garbage or waste and no use of burn barrels.

Don’t fret, though — the use of grills (electric, charcoal or propane) is still permitted. Indoor fireplaces, wood stoves and similar appliances are also allowed as long as they comply with safety codes.

Help keep the community safe and do your part; Smokey Bear is proud of you.

— Five Nights at Hamnet’s —

It’s been a while, thanks to Thanksgiving break, but it’s time for Florida Politics to take you back to the movies. Let’s rip it.

This past Thanksgiving weekend was a box-office success, as usual for this time of year. “Zootopia 2,” sequel to the 2016 Oscar-winning Disney film, opened to a whopping $100 million — and that’s just Friday–Sunday, not including its Wednesday Thanksgiving debut. “Wicked: For Good” continues to defy gravity with $62 million, and “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” held its spot in the top three with $6.9 million.

Now to the new releases.

From Academy Award winner Chloé Zhao (“Nomadland,” “Eternals”), the second woman ever to win Best Director, comes potential Best Picture contender “Hamnet.” The historical-fiction period piece stars Academy Award nominees Jessie Buckley (“The Lost Daughter,” “I’m Thinking of Ending Things”) and Paul Mescal (“Aftersun,” “Gladiator II”) and tells the story of William Shakespeare’s wife, her family and the inspiration that led to Shakespeare’s masterpiece — Hamlet. If you don’t know the reason, we suggest going in blind. The film is being praised by critics and audiences alike for its direction, cinematography, score and performances — especially Buckley, currently the odds-on favorite for Best Actress. The gut-wrenching film is sure to make you cry, so bring tissues and prepare to be transported to the era of the Globe Theatre.

In the horror-and-kids quadrant, Blumhouse delivers the sequel to the 2023 mega box-office hit — and adaptation of the wildly popular video game — “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2.” Director Emma Tammi returns, as do Josh Hutcherson (“The Hunger Games,” “Bridge to Terabithia”), Elizabeth Lail (“You,” “Countdown”) and cult icon Matthew Lillard (“Scooby-Doo” [2002], “Scream,” “Twin Peaks: The Return”). The film adapts the iconography of the second game by developer Scott Cawthon, who also serves as screenwriter. So … how is it? Well, yikes. An 11% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 5.9 on IMDb and a 2.9 on Letterboxd don’t inspire confidence. But fans of the games loved the first film, and they’ll likely love this one too — these movies feel tailor-made for them. Expect big money regardless of reviews.

If none of that floats your boat, maybe the flashy, kung-fu, blood-soaked “Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair” is for you. Select theaters are screening both volumes as one mega film, which director Quentin Tarantino says was always the intended version. Uma Thurman’s yellow jumpsuit as The Bride is always iconic — even if Tarantino’s recent remarks about actor Paul Dano are… strange (Google if you’re unaware).

There’s also “Merrily We Roll Along,” taking the “Hamilton” (2020) route with a professionally filmed version of the Tony-winning Stephen Sondheim musical. Starring Emmy nominee and Tony winner Jonathan Groff (“Frozen,” “Knock at the Cabin,” “Hamilton”), Tony winner Lindsay Mendez and Tony winner Daniel Radcliffe (“Harry Potter,” “Swiss Army Man”), the filmed production is critically acclaimed (95% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a perfect option for Broadway fans who want to experience the 2024 Tony winner without bootlegging it.

On the homefront, Netflix is debuting “Jay Kelly,” an Oscar hopeful starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler, written and directed by Noah Baumbach (“Marriage Story,” “The Squid and the Whale”). The film follows a fading movie star and his manager in a satire of Hollywood’s inner workings. With a 77% Rotten Tomatoes score (87% audience), a 6.7 on IMDb and a 3.4 on Letterboxd, it looks like a solid holiday watch for fans of the Sandman or Mr. “Good Night, and Good Luck” himself. It just scored four Critics’ Choice Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor and Best Original Screenplay.

Happy watching!

— Capitol Directions —

The DeSantis family — Up arrow — Three smiling kids, two new rescue puppies and one expertly timed soft-focus family moment. When did Hallmark join the Gov’s inner orbit?

DeSantis’ AI push — Down arrow — Do we really want guidance on the lifeless from the soulless?

Jay Collins — Down arrow — DeSantis isn’t Nate Dogg. If you want the hook, you’ve gotta earn the feature.

Paul Renner — Up arrow — We knew he had a strong left hook; we’re just glad he’s got a right jab too.

Blaise Ingoglia — Up arrow — Momentum like this should come with a warning label.

Hope Florida — Down arrow — There’s a Latin phrase for this: nolo contendere.

Shevaun Harris — Down arrow — When the paperwork says one thing and the agency says another, a confirmation vote starts looking like a trust fall with no catcher.

Stasi Kamoutsas — Down arrow — We were worried about third grade reading scores, but now we’re more concerned about his ability to read a room.

Ben Albritton — Crossways arrow — He’s now firmly attached to the hip to Gov. DeSantis, for better or worse.

LaVon Bracy Davis, RaShon Young — Up arrow — Can Florida finally deliver “Devil in the Grove” the hopeful epilogue it deserves?

Tom Leek — Up arrow — Unanimous support and real movement on Florida’s Black History Museum. Nice to see a project gaining altitude instead of gathering dust.

Lori Berman, Peggy Gossett-Seidman — Up arrow — Their Special Olympics bill offers the kind of commonsense inclusivity Tallahassee could use more of.

James Buchanan — Up arrow — Pad up, hit the hole, do the job. His launch vid was all smash, no flash.

Demi Busatta Cabrera — Up arrow — Landing the ALEC National Chair without ever holding the gavel is no small feat — and it’s clearly not her ceiling, either.

Dana White — Up arrow — Sorry, we can’t make it an octagon, but it might still scare off a few I-4 tailgaters.

Bears — Down arrow — To paraphrase a famous bear: “We’ve tried to stop FWC’s ‘brilliant’ ideas with common sense a thousand times. Has it ever worked?”

FAU — Up arrow — Score one for the Owls.

Bowen Kou — Down arrow — When your anti-SLAPP loss comes with an $11,000 invoice, it’s time to admit the only thing getting slapped is you.

Big Bend Cares — Up arrow — A $5 million shot in the arm to get families housed. Big win for a local that shows up.

Laveranues Coles — Up arrow — Some careers are built on stats. Others are built on purpose.

Mike Norvell — Down arrow — You know what they say, “if they’re looking, they’re cheating.” It’s just a matter of time.

Hayward House — Birthday cake — “… and many more!”

Florida could soon rewrite how it responds to domestic violence.

Lake Worth Democratic Rep. Debra Tendrich has filed HB 277, a sweeping proposal aimed at modernizing the state’s domestic violence laws with major reforms to prevention, first responder training, court safeguards, diversion programs and victim safety.

It’s a deeply personal issue to Tendrich, who moved to Florida in 2012 to escape what she has described as a “domestic violence situation,” with only her daughter and a suitcase.

“As a survivor myself, HB 277 is more than legislation; it is my way of turning pain into policy,” she said in a statement, adding that months of roundtables with survivors and first responders “shaped this bill from start to finish.”

Tendrich said that, if passed, HB 277 or its upper-chamber analogue (SB 682) by Miami Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud would become Florida’s most comprehensive domestic violence initiative, covering prevention, early intervention, criminal accountability and survivor support.

It would require mandatory strangulation and domestic violence training for emergency medical technicians and paramedics, modernize the legal definition of domestic violence, expand the courts’ authority to order GPS monitoring and strengthen body camera requirements during investigations.

The bill also creates a treatment-based diversion pathway for first-time offenders who plead guilty and complete a batterers intervention program, mental-health services and weekly court-monitored progress reporting. Upon successful completion, charges could be dismissed, a measure Tendrich says will reduce recidivism while maintaining accountability.

On the victim-safety side, HB 277 would flag addresses for 12 months after a domestic-violence 911 call to give responders real-time risk awareness. It would also expand access to text-to-911, require pamphlets detailing the medical dangers of strangulation, authorize well-check visits tied to lethality assessments, enhance penalties for repeat offenders and include pets and service animals in injunctions to prevent coercive control and harm.

Calatayud called it “a tremendous honor and privilege” to work with Tendrich on advancing policy changes “that both law enforcement and survivors of domestic abuse or relationship violence believe are meaningful to protect families across our communities.”

“I’m deeply committed to championing these essential reforms,” she added, saying they would make “a life-or-death difference for women and children in Florida.”

Organizations supporting HB 277 say the bill reflects long-needed, practical reform. Palm Beach County firefighters union IAFF Local 2928 said expanded responder training and improved dispatch information “is exactly the kind of frontline-focused reform that saves lives.”

The Florida Police Benevolent Association called HB 277 a “comprehensive set of measures designed to enhance protections” and pledged to help advance it through the Legislature.

The Animal Legal Defense Fund praised provisions protecting pets in domestic violence cases, noting research showing that 89% of women with pets in abusive relationships have had partners threaten or harm their animals — a major barrier that keeps victims from fleeing.

Florida continues to see high levels of domestic violence. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that 38% of Florida women and 29% of Florida men experience intimate-partner violence in their lifetimes — among the highest rates in the country.

With costs rising statewide, HB 277 also increases relocation assistance through the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund, which advocates say is essential because the current $1,500 cap no longer covers basic expenses for victims fleeing dangerous situations.

Tendrich said survivors who contributed to the bill, which Placida Republican Rep. Danny Nix is co-sponsoring, “finally feel seen.”

“This bill will save lives,” she said. “I am proud that this bill has bipartisan support, and I am even more proud of the survivors whose bravery drives every line of this legislation.”