Takeaways from Tallahassee — Shiny Happy SEOC

Who doesn’t enjoy something big, shiny and new?

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) on Feb. 24 unveiled Florida’s new, high-tech, state-of-the-art State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC). The new facility in Tallahassee is built to enhance disaster response and recovery efforts across the state, which will undoubtedly save lives, time and resources.

Built to last like never before, the new SEOC allows FDEM to coordinate and collaborate with state, local and federal partners when disaster strikes more seamlessly than ever.

“The new State Emergency Operations Center is a bold investment in Florida’s future. This facility was designed not just for today’s challenges, but for the evolving threats of tomorrow. It strengthens our ability to unify partners at every level, harness innovation, and lead with speed and precision when disasters strike,” stated FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie.

“More than a building, it is a symbol of Florida’s proactive approach to preparedness and our continued commitment to setting the benchmark for emergency management nationwide.”

The new facility more than doubles the original emergency operations center floor space. The 208,400-square-foot center features wing infrastructure built to withstand wind bursts of 200 mph, three backup generators and a massive 95-by-13-foot video wall for multiple live data feeds, weather monitoring, GIS mapping and real-time incident tracking.

“The expectation when an emergency strikes is an all-hands-on-deck approach that gets Florida’s communities back to normal as quickly as possible. This new facility will strengthen preparations and response efforts, enhance collaboration, and bring greater resources to the teams working around the clock to serve Floridians,” added Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue.

The facility was funded by the Florida Legislature during the 2021-22 fiscal year and approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis. To further improve speed and coordination, including vehicle logistics, the center also includes two new loading docks capable of accommodating 53-foot trailers, thereby streamlining resource distribution and deployment.

“Building the new State Emergency Operations Center was a true partnership between the Department of Management Services and the Division of Emergency Management. DMS is proud to have built a facility that, for many years, will reflect the resilience and dedication of those who work inside it,” said DMS Interim Secretary Tom Berger.

Last year, no hurricanes made landfall in Florida or anywhere in the United States — the first time since 2015 that has happened. While not as damaging, it was still dangerous, and it was also only the second time in 25 years that Florida did not see at least a tropical storm; the last was in 2014.

Florida families and properties tend to get hit hard during hurricane season, so investing in a game-changing emergency operations center should be seen as a positive for all Floridians — because you never know when they may need help.

“Preparedness is one of the most important investments we can make for Florida’s future. As Senate President, I was proud to help secure the initial and subsequent funding to replace and upgrade our State Emergency Operations Center, giving emergency managers the modern tools and space they need to protect lives and property across our state,” said Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson.

“Emergency Management Day” also took place Feb. 24-25 at the Capitol, where residents and lawmakers were welcomed to stop by and speak with emergency management professionals from across the state about their roles and the new facility.

“This new emergency operations center will further enhance our response capabilities and ensure that we are prepared for any disaster,” said Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia.

___

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—

Denied — The Florida Supreme Court has declined to hear a challenge to DeSantis’ ability to change qualification dates to redraw a congressional map. Justices ruled that the Governor’s Office has the power to call the Legislature into Special Session, as he did when he set a Session starting April 20 for lawmakers to conduct redistricting. DeSantis set that Session concurrent with the qualifying week for federal candidates, so Secretary of State Cord Byrd ordered qualifying for U.S. House candidates to be moved to June, at the same time as state legislative candidates and most other county offices in Florida. The decision removes a significant obstacle that even many Republican political consultants said could derail a mid-decade redistricting effort DeSantis wants to undertake this year.

Hyperscale hyperspeed — The Senate has approved a proposal (SB 484) to protect consumers and ratepayers from utility costs associated with large-scale data centers, and the House is one step away from doing the same after its version of the bill (HB 1007) cleared its full committee lineup without having been heard before this week. The bills would establish a comprehensive framework governing “large load customers,” which are defined as facilities with an anticipated monthly peak load of 50 megawatts or more at a single location, a threshold that captures many hyperscale data centers. The proposal would require the Florida Public Service Commission to develop minimum tariff and service requirements to ensure that large-load customers bear their full cost of service and that those costs are not shifted onto other utility ratepayers.

Washington weighs in — The AI Bill of Rights legislation could be in trouble. White House staff reached out to House Speaker Daniel Perez to voice opposition to the bill on the eve of the Senate’s scheduled floor vote on SB 482, which was subsequently postponed. The Senate did not respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. The Senate bill seeks to protect minors and vulnerable adults by requiring AI bots to display disclaimers that AI is being used, increasing parental controls and more. The Senate has been trying to advance AI reforms, a DeSantis priority. Perez has maintained that the federal government — not the state — should be responsible for AI reform. He left the door open, saying the House might get involved in legislating AI in the future. “I wouldn’t say it’s a never, but it’s something that we’re still having conversations about,” Perez added.

Sequel fatigue — The April Special Session on redistricting is on the calendar, but the Governor is still indicating that he’ll call for lawmakers to reconvene for a separate Special Session on homestead property tax abatement. Speaking in St. Augustine, DeSantis said there was never an intention from his Office to get a ballot initiative approved during the Regular Session. “I would just say stay tuned. I would not anticipate this happening in the Regular Session. That was never our plan on this. And there’s reasons for that. But it’s going to get done. And you guys are going to be able to go to the polls and be able to vote something that’s really, really meaningful,” DeSantis said.

Overhaul OK’d — The House approved a sweeping elections bill that would require verification of U.S. citizenship before voters can cast a ballot, mandate statewide re-checks of existing voter rolls and overhaul how election results are audited. HB 991 requires that an applicant’s U.S. citizenship be verified through records maintained by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) before a voter registration application is deemed valid. The measure would also tighten voter eligibility verification, narrow acceptable forms of identification at polling places, revise candidate qualification rules, and create a new automated, independent vote-validation process before results can be certified. The Senate companion (SB 1334) cleared its second Senate Committee on Feb. 18. If the measure is ultimately approved and signed by the Governor, most provisions would take effect on July 1.

— AG wades into deadly clash —

Attorney General James Uthmeier is ordering an investigation into an international incident involving a Florida vessel in Cuban waters that resulted in at least four deaths and six injuries.

Uthmeier announced on his X account that he is aware that a speedboat registered in Florida was operating about 1 mile northeast of the El Pino channel in the Cayo Falcones Corralillo municipality in the Cuban province of Villa Clara. He referenced a statement from the Cuban Embassy in the U.S. relayed by U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez, a Miami Republican.

“The dictatorship in #Cuba has just attacked a boat from Florida & murdered those on board. This regime must be relegated to the dustbin of history!” Gimenez said on social media.

“I’ve directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to work with our federal, state and law enforcement partners to begin an investigation,” Uthmeier added.

According to an account from the Cuban Ministry of the Interior, the speedboat was registered in Florida, and Cuban officials posted the registration number as verification. Cuban authorities said the vessel approached the island nation before Border Guard Troops with the Ministry of the Interior confronted the occupants.

“When a surface unit of the Border Guard Troops of the Ministry of the Interior, carrying five service members, approached the vessel for identification, the crew of the violating speedboat opened fire on the Cuban personnel, resulting in the injury of the commander of the Cuban vessel,” the Cuban Ministry of the Interior statement said.

The confrontation then turned deadly.

“As a consequence of the confrontation, as of the time of this report, four aggressors on the foreign vessel were killed and six were injured. The injured individuals were evacuated and received medical assistance,” the Cuban statement said.

— Target Thefts Targeted —

A Palm Beach man suspected of committing 75 thefts at multiple Target stores across South and Central Florida over the past year has been charged with running a retail theft scheme.

Attorney General Uthmeier announced Thursday that 39-year-old Keith Wallis faces three felony counts of dealing in stolen property and one count of felony money laundering.

“Florida has the No. 1 economy in the nation because of our commitment to law and order,” Uthmeier said in a news release. “Organized retail theft drives up prices for consumers, and that is not a result we are going to tolerate. These schemes will be met with the maximum punishment allowed under the law.”

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Martin and Broward County sheriff’s offices and assistance from Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution, investigated Wallis and the dozens of thefts from various Target stores. Investigators say the thefts occurred between July and this month, hitting stores from Miami to the Orlando area.

According to investigators, Wallis stole multiple large boxes of trading cards and 99-cent packets of taco seasoning. At self-checkout, he allegedly paid only for the taco seasoning while placing the trading cards in purchase bags without paying for them.

Authorities say the scheme resulted in losses of more than $10,000 to the various Target stores. Meanwhile, Wallis allegedly sold the stolen goods and amassed $40,000 in revenue.

— That’s a lot of damage —

Living in Florida at the start of 2026 has meant massive cold fronts and storms. Even this week, freeze warnings returned to the Capital City. Florida’s crops were not fans — and it ultimately cost farmers big.

Agriculture Commissioner Simpson announced this week that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ preliminary estimate of losses from recent freezes totals more than $3 billion across the state’s agricultural sectors.

“Our preliminary estimate of over $3 billion in agricultural losses makes clear what we already knew: This was one of the most damaging freeze events for Florida agriculture in history. It is also clear that our state’s farmers, ranchers, and growers – who we rely on daily to feed and nourish our communities – need timely and substantial support,” Simpson said.

The largest hit came to sugarcane, with an estimated $1.15 billion in losses. Citrus followed at $674.66 million, strawberries at $306.97 million, sweet corn at $255.36 million and greenhouse and nursery operations at $240.00 million. Tomatoes accounted for $164.27 million in losses, with bell peppers at $108.38 million, potatoes at $79.07 million, blueberries at $78.51 million, watermelons at $65.44 million, squash at $24.52 million and cabbage at $21.80 million.

“Working hand in hand with producer groups and our congressional delegation, we stand ready to accept and quickly administer federal block grant funding to support our impacted producers to recover, to replant, and to keep our nation fed,” Simpson added.

The estimates were calculated using data from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Florida Census of Agriculture, USDA Market News, UF-IFAS Preliminary Freeze Event Assessment and direct communication between the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and individual producers seeking to recover from the freezes.

The full preliminary estimate is available to read here.

— 2023 & 2024 called —

Although Florida did not experience any hurricanes this year, many producers are still reeling from storms in prior seasons.

This week, Agriculture Commissioner Simpson announced that ag producers can now apply for more than $600 million in disaster assistance for impacts from the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons through the Florida Block Grant Disaster Relief Program. The grant assists with infrastructure damage, market loss, citrus loss and timber damage for farmers affected by recent hurricanes.

“Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers suffered billions of dollars in damages and losses during the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons, and this grant program offers them much-needed financial support,” Simpson said.

“We’ve worked to get this funding to our producers as quickly as possible. We are also prepared to administer additional financial resources, as soon as federal approval is granted, for producers impacted by the recent and historic freezes.”

All applications must be submitted by Aug. 25, 2026, or until funding is exhausted, whichever comes first.

The $600 million reflects roughly 35% of Florida’s total agricultural losses and damage from the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons combined.

For more information, the FDACS has launched a portal at FDACS.gov/BlockGrant.

— ICE ICE money —

The state CFO spends his time doing one of two things: staging photo-ops about excessive local government spending and handing out checks to law enforcement agencies financed by that same spending.

Ingoglia announced in Panama City this week that more than $2 million is going directly to local law enforcement agencies for immigration enforcement efforts.

The departments receiving funds include the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, City of Blountstown, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and the Marianna Police Department.

“We are not taking our foot off the gas, and we will continue to support our law enforcement officers as they work to protect our communities,” Ingoglia said.

The funding is made possible through the State Board of Immigration Enforcement awarding reimbursement dollars to Florida agencies that applied for immigration enforcement support. That is in addition to state and local agencies across Florida partnering with ICE under 287(g) agreements.

“CFO Ingoglia, and our other state and federal partners, understand the importance in ensuring public safety in our communities. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for your continued support and commitment to law enforcement,” added Tommy Ford, Bay County Sheriff.

The funding breaks down as $685,956 for the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, $648,805 for the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, $77,530 for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, $30,361 for the Marianna Police Department, $26,055 for the City of Blountstown, $24,892 for Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and $15,071 for Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.

“Thank you to CFO Ingoglia and the Florida Cabinet for the work you all do to support law enforcement across the state. These funds give us the resources our deputies need to do their job safely and effectively,” said Kevin Crews, Washington County Sheriff.

— Top 10 open-air museum —

Have you ever visited the historic, uniquely Florida experience that is Mission San Luis? If not, there’s no excuse now.

Secretary of State Cord Byrd and the Florida Department of State announced that Mission San Luis ranked in the top 10 for Best Open-Air Museums as part of the USA TODAY 10BEST list. Mission San Luis placed No. 7 out of 20 and was the only open-air museum in Florida to make the top 10.

“As our nation reflects on 250 years of independence, it is also fitting that we honor the centuries of history that preceded it. Visit Mission San Luis to rediscover the legacy of the Apalachee and Spanish people who shaped this land over three centuries ago,” Byrd said.

“Our team of living history interpreters are proud to preserve these stories, offering a first-class educational experience that brings our shared past to life.”

Mission San Luis is a 60-acre open-air museum and Tallahassee’s only National Historic Landmark. It features recreations of historical structures, including a Franciscan church, a Spanish house, a palisaded fort, a blacksmith shop and an Apalachee council house, the largest of its kind in the Southeast.

From 1656 to 1704, Mission San Luis served as the western capital of Spanish Florida. The museum recreates daily life during the height of its operation.

For those marking the semiquincentennial with a Florida focus, Mission San Luis is also listed as one of the America250FL 14th Colony Heritage Sites.

For more information, visit MissionSanLuis.org.

— Instagram of the week —

— OZ The Great and Powerful 2.0 —

Business opportunities are expanding across Florida and beyond.

This week, FloridaCommerce announced the launch of the “Opportunity Zone 2.0 Tour” (OZ 2.0), a statewide initiative designed to help communities prepare for the next Opportunity Zone designation cycle.

The program aims to equip rural and low-income communities with the tools and guidance needed to compete for long-term private investment and economic growth, positioning them to attract capital that may have previously been out of reach.

“The Opportunity Zone 2.0 tour provides a platform for input from local leaders, economic development professionals, workforce education partners and other community stakeholders — giving Florida communities the opportunity to better position themselves to secure the resources they need to strengthen critical infrastructure, attract job creators and support job seekers,” said Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly.

“Florida’s rural and low-income communities have specific goals to set themselves up for economic success, and this initiative helps ensure those goals can cross the last mile.”

The Opportunity Zone program was established under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Governors nationwide will nominate new Opportunity Zones by July 1, with final certification by the U.S. Treasury expected by Dec. 31. The updated zones will take effect Jan. 1.

— Winner winners —

The Olympics may be over, but high-stakes competition continues across Florida classrooms.

In celebration of Black History Month, the Florida Department of Education, Volunteer Florida, the Florida Lottery and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation hosted the “Black History Month Art, Essay, and Educator Contest,” centered this year on the theme “Celebrating Black History.” Winners were recognized this week during a reception at the Governor’s Mansion.

“Florida students once again amazed me with the quality of their art and essay submissions, and the educators showed their commitment and dedication to their students. I am pleased that so many took this opportunity to learn about Black history and send my congratulations to the winners,” said Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas.

Art contest winners — each receiving a $200 school supply gift card and a one-year Florida State Parks pass — were Isobel DeGroot (Kindergarten, St. Andrew’s Academy), Kiera Pero (First Grade, Waters Edge Elementary), Allison Garcia (Second Grade, Kendale Elementary) and Madison Cruess (Third Grade, Westside School).

The essay contest, open to students in grades 4–12, recognized two winners in each of the following categories: grades 4–5, middle school and high school. Winners received a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, along with a $200 school supply gift card. Honorees included Elizabeth Grim (Fourth Grade, Schwarzkopf Elementary School), Adriana Watkins (Fifth Grade, Coronado Beach Elementary School), Saije Wade Cody (Sixth Grade, Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School), Rohanna Johnson (Seventh Grade, Franklin Academy), Tevay Berry (Ninth Grade, Freedomschoolers Academy) and Ah-Jnea Ottley (Twelfth Grade, Homestead High School).

“We are incredibly proud to recognize these outstanding students and educators whose creativity and dedication bring the stories of Black history to life in meaningful ways. Their work not only honors the past, but also inspires a spirit of service, leadership, and unity that will shape Florida’s future for generations to come,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo.

The “Excellence in Education Award” — open to nominations from principals, teachers, parents, guardians and students — included a $2,500 award provided by Volunteer Florida. This year’s recipients were Omega Mothersill (Auburndale High School), Brittany Rudolph-Montgomery (The Villages Charter School), Yanetta Smith (Pedro Menendez High School) and Francis Thomas (Renaissance Charter School at Chickasaw Trail).

— End of watch —

Last week, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) honored the life and service of Trooper Michael Diego, who on Feb. 18 was killed in the line of duty taking part in a competitive process for the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit at the FHP Training Academy.

Trooper Diego suffered a medical emergency and, despite efforts by hospital staff, died at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital with his loved ones by his side.

“Florida State Trooper Michael Diego exemplifies what it means to be an American and one of Florida’s finest. He lived his life in service and protection to others. Trooper Diego passed away in the line of duty, surrounded by his family and his fellow State Troopers. Our hearts grieve his untimely passing, and for the pain his family is experiencing,” said FHP Executive Director Dave Kerner and Col. Gary Howze in an official statement.

Trooper Diego began his career with FHP in 2021 as part of the 149th Recruit Class. He served more than four years in the FHP, with assignments in Troop L (Fort Pierce District) and Troop F (Fort Myers District). He is survived by his mother, sister and fiancé.

“We are deeply thankful for the rescue efforts of his fellow State Troopers, EMS first responders, the pilots and medics of Survival Flight, and the medical professionals of Gadsden Memorial Hospital and Tallahassee Memorial Hospital,” Kerner and Howze added.

Trooper Diego was memorialized during a service at First Naples Church on Feb. 21, at noon in Naples.

— Pitch perfect OIG —

With law enforcement, accountability, integrity, professionalism and organization are key — and Florida wants the best of the best.

This week, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Office of Inspector General (OIG) earned full accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA), highlighting a commitment to professional oversight and efficiency. The accreditation is a testament to FDLE’s efforts to expand and strengthen its OIG.

“This accreditation is a testament to the vision we set for FDLE’s Office of Inspector General, and the hard work required to achieve it. With the support of Governor DeSantis and our leadership team, we built an OIG that meets the highest professional standards in Florida. I am proud of our team and their unwavering commitment to accountability and integrity,” said Mark Glass, FDLE Commissioner.

Following a comprehensive assessment completed in December 2025, the CFA awarded accreditation to FDLE on Feb. 19. The CFA found the OIG to be 100% compliant with investigative standards and offered no recommendations for improvement — a rare feat.

CFA assessors highlighted the OIG’s Early Intervention System, designed to proactively identify risks, as a standout feature of the office. With full accreditation, FDLE’s OIG joins a select group of oversight bodies in Florida that have met or exceeded the highest professional standards for investigative and auditing practices.

With support from FDLE leadership, the OIG has met some of the most rigorous statewide benchmarks for investigative excellence. For more information about the OIG, visit www.fdle.state.fl.us.

— Sickle Cell bill sweeps Senate —

In a rare show of unanimity, the Senate this week passed the Sickle Cell Disease Care Management and Treatment Continuing Education bill.

The measure, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Shevrin Jones, now heads to the House, where similar legislation (HB 353) has already worked its way through the committee process.

“The passage of SB 844 is a monumental step toward correcting historical disparities in health care for sickle cell patients in Florida,” Jones said in a statement.

“This legislation isn’t just about mandated education; it is about saving lives, validating patient experiences, and ensuring every resident living with sickle cell disease receives the compassionate and modern care they deserve.”

SB 844 seeks to improve patient care and reduce health care disparities by ensuring providers receive updated training in pain management and treatment protocols. The bill calls for continuing education requirements to standardize and modernize care for individuals living with sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder in which red blood cells form into a sickle shape due to an abnormality in hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in the blood. The condition can cause blockages in capillaries, leading to severe pain, organ damage and reduced life expectancy, and disproportionately affects non-Hispanic Black individuals.

— Tooth Rep —

The Florida House delivered a rare unanimous vote this week on a bill aimed at expanding access to dental care for veterans.

On Feb. 25, the House passed HB 253, commonly referred to as the Veterans Dental Care bill, sponsored by West Palm Beach Democratic Rep. Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds, with bipartisan support in a 116-0 vote.

“Imagine serving your country with honor, only to come home and suffer in silence because you can’t afford to fix a cracked tooth or treat an infection. That is not how we honor service. That is not how we treat heroes,” Edmonds said.

Florida is home to nearly 1.5 million veterans, many of whom face chronic dental pain or long-term complications because of the excessive cost of care.

Dental health affects overall health, as untreated issues can contribute to heart disease, diabetes and infection.

“When 116 members of the Florida House stand together, Democrats and Republicans, it shows that some issues rise above politics. Caring for our veterans should never be partisan. Our veterans kept their promise to this country. Today, the Florida House kept ours,” Edmonds added.

HB 253 seeks to improve access to dental care for Florida’s veterans.

— Climate crackdown —

Sierra Club Florida is urging the Senate Committee on Appropriations to strip an amendment to a Senate tax cut package that would bar local governments from adopting or implementing policies aimed at cutting pollution and planning for climate impacts.

The proposal would block new local climate initiatives and halt existing programs designed to lower energy costs, protect drinking water and reduce flooding risks. It would also prohibit communities from setting emissions goals, supporting efficiency programs or participating in regional resiliency efforts.

The group argues the amendment overrides locally driven conservation efforts and undermines home rule authority, ignoring the distinct environmental and economic challenges facing different parts of the state.

“Florida’s communities are already dealing with stronger storms, rising seas, and extreme heat. This amendment ties the hands of local leaders who are working to protect residents, wildlife, and taxpayer dollars. At a time when Floridians are facing intensifying climate impacts, lawmakers should be expanding solutions — not banning them,” said Javier Estevez, Sierra Club Florida’s Political and Legislative Director.

The bill is slated to go before the Senate Committee on Appropriations on Monday at noon.

— King of Pop x Marching 100 —

The Rattlers clearly wanna be startin’ somethin’ for us all to enjoy.

The musical-slash-biopic film “Michael,” set for release on April 24, chronicles the life of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The film stars his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, alongside Miles Teller. Oscar nominee Colman Domingo portrays Jackson’s father and manager, Joe Jackson. The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua.

To mark the lead-up to the release and honor Black History Month, FAMU’s world-renowned Marching 100 performed Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” from his 1979 album “Off the Wall.”

The performance is part of the “MICHAEL CELEBRATES: Legacy, Artistry, Culture” campaign, highlighting Jackson’s influence and the longstanding relationship between his music and HBCU culture.

“Michael Jackson elevated entertainment through originality and discipline. The same standard the Marching 100 has upheld for decades. This tribute honors a creative genius, whose impact parallels the excellence rooted in HBCU traditions, so we absolutely had to participate,” said Shelby Chipman, FAMU’s director of bands.

The performance was led by Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede, the first female head drum major in the Marching 100’s history.

“Serving as the first female head drum major of the Marching 100 while honoring Michael Jackson is incredibly meaningful. Michael was often the first to reimagine what performance could look like and who could lead it. In stepping into this role, I’m reminded that progress requires courage,” Oloyede said.

“As student leaders at an HBCU, we are empowered to challenge limits, innovate boldly and carry our culture forward.”

The performance is available on FAMU’s official social media platforms and the film’s official channels. It can also be viewed here.

“For Michael’s fans everywhere, his legacy of performance and artistry is enduring. That legacy lives powerfully within HBCU communities, where music, movement and excellence have long been expressions of culture and identity,” said Briana McElroy, head of digital marketing for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.

— Dress for success with donations—

It may be a little cold outside, but that doesn’t mean spring cleaning can’t begin. If you are clearing out clothes that no longer fit or suit your style, FSU is asking you to consider donating them locally.

From March 2 through April 3, the fifth annual FSU Career Center “Spring Cleaning with Meaning Clothing Drive: Restock the Racks” will collect professional attire to provide free clothing for students to wear to interviews, internships, jobs, career fairs, networking events and presentations.

The official kickoff will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 6 at the Westcott Fountain and Plaza.

“By donating to the closet, you’re giving students an advantage to excel in their academic and career pursuits with confidence and professionalism. This year marks an exciting milestone as we introduce our first-ever kickoff event, designed to celebrate past donors, honor the students who rely on the closet and provide a convenient opportunity for supporters to drop off clothing donations in person,” said Heather Lazar, Senior Assistant Director of Employer Relations at FSU.

The closet is seeking professional attire, including suits, blazers, dress slacks, skirts, dresses and blouses for women, and suits, blazers, dress pants and dress shirts for men. Dress shoes and accessories such as belts and ties are also accepted. Smaller sizes are especially needed.

Last academic year, more than 3,100 FSU students utilized the Professional Clothing Closet. Organizers hope to collect 3,000 clothing items and raise $10,000 to help keep the closet stocked for next year.

Donations must be clean, lightly used and appropriate for a business setting. Drop-off locations will be available across FSU’s campus, at Champions First Credit Union branches in Tallahassee and at the Southwood Association Community Center.

— Another dominating win —

As DJ Khaled once said: “Another one.”

The wins keep stacking up for Tallahassee State College (TSC). This week, the TSC Speech and Debate Team claimed the Overall Team Sweepstakes title at the Florida Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Championship.

TSC came out on top against teams competing from better-known institutions such as the University of Central Florida, the University of Florida, the University of West Florida, Florida State University, and Southeastern University.

TSC was able to advance 24 entries beyond elimination rounds, earned three individual state championships and secured six runner-up finishes. Straight up “BTA” as the kids say.

“I hope everyone understands how special a win like this is. These university teams have larger squads and travel with numerous juniors and seniors. For us to win the championship exclusively with a group of freshmen and sophomores is amazing,” said John Schultz, TSC’s Director of Forensics.

TSC also swept the Overall Individual Speaker awards, with Jack Hopkins placing first, Natalie Gordon second, and Samuel King and Grace Hartman third and fourth, respectively.

The victory marks TSC’s fourth state championship at FIFA and continues to bolster its reputation in collegiate forensics.

Additional runner-up finishes included Olivia Shull in Communication Analysis, Gordon in Poetry Interpretation, King in Prose Interpretation, and Hopkins in After-Dinner Speaking and Public Debate.

— FB Marketplace thief busted —

Justice has been brought to the marketplace of Tallahassee – the online one, at least.

This week, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) arrested a juvenile in connection with a series of thefts linked to Facebook Marketplace transactions.

TPD was on trial when they identified similarities among five reported incidents and determined the cases were connected. With the help of victim interviews, digital evidence analysis, and investigative follow-up, TPD detectives established probable cause and identified the subject responsible for the occurrences at the Service Center on Highland Street.

On Feb. 19, officers arrested the 15-year-old in connection with five thefts reported between Jan. 4 and Feb. 17.

“This arrest reflects the focused and coordinated work of our detectives. When patterns emerge, our investigators work carefully to build strong cases that ensure accountability. We remain committed to protecting residents and holding those who seek to exploit members of our community accountable,” Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell said.

In each case, victims reported arranging a meetup for what appeared to be legitimate transactions. Police said the suspect would take the property and flee. In one incident, a victim attempted to retain possession, but the suspect escaped with the item. Reported stolen property included iPhones, a MacBook Pro and a laptop.

The suspect, 15, was charged with grand theft, two counts of petit theft, robbery by sudden snatching and two counts of dealing in stolen property.

Now find a good deal on Facebook Marketplace — or just doomscroll down it, because you can always see some wacky stuff there.

Let this be your reminder: Good lighting and the buddy system are non-negotiables … or better yet, get some delayed gratification practice in by ordering online.

— Pillion 7 —

It was a relatively solid weekend at the box office for late February, seeing the original animated film “GOAT” earn the No. 1 spot (how fitting) at $17 million, followed by “Wuthering Heights” at $14 million, and “I Can Only Imagine 2” at $9.7 million. And a big congratulations to “Zootopia 2” which officially this week became the highest grossing domestic film of 2025.

For fans of Wes Craven’s iconic meta/self-aware horror series “Scream,” a new edition to the series hits theaters this weekend in “Scream 7.” Courteney Cox is back, along with David Arquette, along with the franchise’s star, Neve Campbell and the new young friend group established across the previous two installments. But what’s notable is who isn’t there: Emmy nominee Jenna Ortega and the actor who plays her older sister, Melissa Barrera, who were clearly being set up as the series’ next flagship duo.

After comments Barrera made about the Israel-Hamas war on social media, she was let go from the production. Due to a busy schedule filming “Wednesday” and showing solidarity with her co-star (plus, let’s be honest, she’s outgrown these films), Ortega announced she was stepping down. So now what? The stars of the previous two installments are gone, but the show must go on, right? The result netted a 37% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 6.1 on IMDB, and a 2.5 on Letterboxd … a massive letdown to say the least.

“Pillion,” the film nominated for three BAFTA awards this year, is releasing this week in select theaters nationwide. The film stars Emmy winner Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling of “Harry Potter” fame. The dark romantic comedy about bikers, leather, and S&M. The film has a 99% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 6.8 on IMDB, and a 3.6 on Letterboxd.

And on the TV side of things, season 2 of the Emmy-nominated Hulu series “Paradise” is being greeted warmly by critics, with an 87% on Rotten Tomatoes. And the reboot of the cult classic comedy “Scrubs” also dropped to a 90% on Rotten Tomatoes — and yes, Zach Braff and Donald Faison are back!

Happy watching!

— Capitol Directions —

RON DESANTIS — Up arrow — Looks like the lame duck finished PT. At least Primary voters think so.

RON DESANTIS, PART 2 — Down arrow — Even Guy Fieri gave up on the Guy Fieri schtick. Please, no more diners or drive-ins.

YOUR APRIL PLANS — Down arrow — They were just gerrymandered into May.

CASEY DESANTIS — Crossways arrow — She’s competitive … until question two.

BYRON DONALDS — Up arrow — He’s at 44 before anyone mentions 47.

AG OFFICE — Down arrow — Guess the ‘growing family’ required a third job as Andrade’s publicist.

DEPT. OF HEALTH — Down arrow — Somewhere between backyard glyphosate testing and YouTube grand rounds, our Surgeon General discovered the bootstrap paradox.

LORI BERMAN — Up arrow — Leadership by circumstance, carried with grace, and concluded with class.

DANNY ALVAREZ — Crossways arrow — Brandon Staley on fourth-and-forever, but in bill form.

JERVONTE ‘TAE’ EDMONDS — Up arrow — In a Session full of root canals, he pulled off a routine cleaning.

TOM FABRICIO — Up arrow — The only thing missing is a sales tax holiday on Goo Gone.

ASHLEY GANTT — Down arrow — Next up: fact-checking gravity.

PATT MANEY — Up arrow — Show HB Left of Boom adopted.

JOE CASELLO — Halo — The PFAS bill was a farewell worthy of a class act.

MICHELLE SALZMANN — Up arrow — Security on the front end, survival on the back end, all in the same week.

ALLISON TANT, KRISTEN ARRINGTON — Up arrow — A unanimous ‘OK, that’s enough.’

HB 995 — Down arrow — Supporters see ‘workforce flexibility.’ Opponents see cloth-insulated knob-and-tube.

FHBA — Down arrow — Kari Hebrank just taught Highland Towers a $600,000 civics lesson.

HOSPICE PATIENTS — Up arrow — Already in a horrible situation, they will not be treated like they’re in California.

RAY LEWIS — Up arrow — The rare ‘former athlete with a mic’ that works.

EDWIN PEREZ — Down arrow — We can’t wait for him to read the patch notes.

MICHAEL EMANUEL RAJNER — Up arrow — Other advocates should consider throwing in on a K12.

TOM SALANTRAS — Down arrow — The robe doesn’t come with final cut privileges.

RICHARD MCCULLOUGH — Up arrow — The lease was ticking down, but FSU exercised the buyout before it ever hit the lot.

FAST CARS & MASON JARS — Down arrow — Nothing says philanthropy like bourbon and a small brawl before the Uber ride home. Do better, lobby corps.