Takeaways from Tallahassee — The Sunshine State takes the stage

There’s nothing quite like a fair, is there?

And while maybe not as iconic — yet — as the Chicago World’s Fair that celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival and coined the “Great White City” nickname for the Windy City, the Great American State Fair kicked off Thursday in Washington, D.C.

The Florida Pavilion joins exhibits from every state and six U.S. territories at the expo, hosted by Freedom 250, on the National Mall through July 10. The exhibit highlights the people, places, industries — from space to agriculture — and culture that make Florida a destination.

“As our nation celebrates 250 years of independence, Florida is proud to showcase the culture and history that has helped shape America and continues to define our state’s success,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement marking the Florida pavilion’s debut.

“From our unmatched natural beauty to our thriving agriculture and world-class attractions, Florida’s pavilion will give visitors from across the country a taste of everything that makes the Free State of Florida exceptional.”

Visitors begin their journey in St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established city (the distinction matters — ask one of your Pensacola pals), where Florida’s story begins with Juan Ponce de León’s arrival in 1513 and continues through generations of Floridians who helped shape the nation.

“VISIT FLORIDA is proud to contribute to the Florida Pavilion at the Great American State Fair to celebrate America and share Florida’s incredible story. Visitors to the Florida Pavilion will be able to explore Florida’s long history, natural treasures, and current landmarks as they walk through the exhibit, and experience the important role our state has played in America’s story,” said VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Bryan Griffin.

“We will showcase the people, places, innovation, and courage that made our state — and even offer a few fun Florida giveaways.”

Those who visit the Florida Pavilion can explore five signature experiences unique to the Sunshine State. There’s “Florida’s History & Heritage,” followed by “The Manatee: Florida’s Iconic Marine Mammal,” highlighting the state’s beloved gentle giant and conservation efforts. Visitors can also explore “Florida’s Natural Resources,” celebrating the landscapes and waterways that define the state.

The exhibit continues with “Fresh From Florida: Florida’s Agricultural Heritage,” honoring the state’s farmers, ranchers and growers, before concluding with “Live More Floridays,” a celebration of Florida tourism — beaches, theme parks, nightclubs, breweries and untouched natural beauty. We’ve got it all.

“The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is proud to participate in the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., as our nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday. Through an interactive exhibit showcasing Florida’s iconic wildlife, world-renowned fisheries, and breathtaking natural landscapes, we invite visitors to experience the incredible resources that make the Sunshine State unique. Stop by our booth and discover why Florida is recognized as the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young.

Bring a mindset ready to learn about the nation’s history and an empty stomach. A variety of food and beverages, including some with a kick, will be available for purchase throughout the fairgrounds. Bags are permitted, but they must be clear — if you’ve done a Saturday at Doak or The Swamp, you know the drill.

“The Great American State Fair is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Americans to celebrate together and honor our nation’s rich history. Florida’s pavilion represents the best of our state, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the boundless ingenuity of our people,” said America250FL Chair and Secretary of State Cord Byrd.

The fair is open Sunday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours until midnight on the Fourth of July. Each day also features its own programming, from Military & Veterans Appreciation Day to Engines of Enterprise, so be sure to check the calendar before you go.

If you don’t have Summer plans over the next couple of weeks, you do now. Celebrate Florida and America’s 250th, brush up on some history, and maybe even check out that Reflection Pool everyone’s been yapping about — don’t touch anything unless you really need a free hotel in the DMV.

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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 —

That’s a wrap — Florida’s controversial Alligator Alcatraz facility detaining suspected illegal immigrants is finally ceasing operations after facilitating nearly 21,000 deportations in almost a year in operation. White House Border Czar Tom Homan joined DeSantis in Ochopee at the previously obscure Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, a largely disused facility in the Everglades that drew national scrutiny as Florida activated it to supplement federal deportation efforts. “Alligator Alcatraz fulfilled the role it was designed to serve,” DeSantis said. “There’s no question that this mission has made Florida safer.” The last Alligator Alcatraz detainees were transferred out earlier this month, leaving cleanup and remediation to the state at an estimated cost of $40 million. That will add to the $1 billion total cost, including $608 million for operations. The latter sum is being reimbursed by the Trump administration gradually; just $58 million has been sent back to the state so far.

Dumpstered — DeSantis has rejected two bipartisan bills aimed at addressing the rising risks posed by electric bikes and scooters, as well as a measure that would have opened the door for high school students to earn scholarship hours by volunteering at the polls. Both proposals had broad support in the Legislature, reflecting growing concern over public safety and civic engagement. SB 382, filed by Republican Sen. Keith Truenow, sought to create a statewide system for tracking e-bike and scooter crashes. Right now, there is no consistent data because local and state agencies each record these incidents differently. HB 461 would allow high school students to volunteer as poll workers in exchange for community service hours for their graduation requirements or Bright Futures scholarships. The bill sponsored by Republican Reps. Kiyan Michael and Susan Valdés would have loosened the rules on privately funded election-related expenses that kept students from volunteering at the polls in time for the upcoming August Primary.

Ramping up — Pushback is mounting against a proposed constitutional amendment that would increase Florida’s homestead exemption to $250,000, and now a political committee is raising funds to oppose it. The Stop Unfair Tax Shifts PC, chaired by former Leon County Commissioner Bryan Desloge, is using funds to urge Floridians to reject Amendment 3 this November. The committee argues Floridians are voting on a “complex package of tax changes that will have major consequences for the Sunshine State.” Desloge is confident voters will choose to protect the revenue their local governments count on. “As more Floridians recognize that the choices are to either cut the things our communities depend on, or shift the cost to someone else, I believe voters will choose to protect their local communities and defeat Amendment 3,” Desloge added.

Last ditch — Rep. Paula Stark is suing to get on the ballot for re-election in House District 47 after she failed to qualify this month. The St. Cloud Republican officially filed her lawsuit in Leon Circuit Court and argued her Form 6 was hand-delivered to Tallahassee in time by Stark’s campaign Treasurer Joel Davis, who is also her partner. But Stark’s suit says Davis was mistakenly given the form back. Form 6 is a public disclosure of financial interests that all candidates for state office must submit during the qualifying period, which started June 8 and ran through June 12 at noon. “The Department’s filing officer physically took possession of all three qualifying materials from the plaintiff before the end of the qualifying period,” her lawsuit said. Both Stark and the Secretary of State declined to comment on Monday when Florida Politics reached out.

Hands off — With Ye’s two Tampa concerts just days away, Tampa Sports Authority Chair Patrick Manteiga says the shows will go on despite a mounting pressure campaign from elected officials, Jewish community advocates and residents urging the publicly supported venue to call off the performances. Ye is scheduled to perform on June 26 and June 28 at Raymond James Stadium. The shows have drawn opposition over his history of antisemitic remarks, including praise for Adolf Hitler, calling himself a Nazi and selling merchandise featuring swastikas. Ye has since publicly apologized for his antisemitic actions. Manteiga acknowledged the petition and calls from the community, but said thousands of fans have also “voted that they’re OK with this with their wallet because they’re going to write $200 checks or more to get a ticket for this event.”

— Elderly abuse crackdown —

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the bust of what prosecutors describe as a multiyear abuse and exploitation ring targeting elderly and disabled adults in Central Florida.

The Office of Statewide Prosecution filed felony charges against 60-year-old Ronald Keith Pack and 56-year-old Marie Carenan, alleging they operated eight unlicensed assisted-living facilities through Cherish Home Care Inc. and Cherish Independent Living Care Inc. in Osceola and Polk counties.

“Florida will not stand by while predators pose as caregivers and prey on the elderly and disabled,” Uthmeier said.

Investigators allege the pair accepted patients referred from mental health and behavioral health facilities before confiscating identification cards, debit cards, Social Security benefits, medications and personal belongings. Authorities also accuse the defendants of restricting residents’ movement by padlocking doors, windows, refrigerators and cabinets, preventing victims from leaving, accessing their finances or obtaining emergency medical care.

Multiple state and local agencies participated in the yearslong investigation.

“Florida’s seniors have spent their lives building this state and raising our families; they deserve to live their later years with dignity, safety, and peace of mind,” said Department of Elder Affairs Secretary Michelle Branham.

Prosecutors filed seven felony charges against the suspects, including organized scheme to defraud, exploitation of an elderly person and aggravated abuse of an elderly person.

— CVS under scrutiny —

Uthmeier is launching a civil investigation into CVS Health Corp. and its retail pharmacies to determine whether the company is engaging in unfair market practices through its pharmacy benefit manager operations.

Uthmeier announced the probe in Miami, saying his office has subpoenaed CVS for records related to its practices as a pharmacy benefit manager, or PBM. CVS owns Caremark PBM and operates more than 800 retail pharmacies in Florida.

The Attorney General’s Office said it has received complaints alleging CVS has pressured independent pharmacies to participate in pharmaceutical services with the company while steering patients toward its own pharmacy network and failing to pass along rebates and other discounts that could lower prescription costs.

“We’re always going to lead, and we’re always going to fight back,” Uthmeier said. “It appears one company has gotten so big that they’re controlling market powers.”

CVS has until July 28 to respond to subpoenas seeking financial records, contracts, audits and PBM-related documents.

“Florida families and seniors deserve access to affordable medication and real pharmacy choices — not a system rigged by one giant corporation that may favor its own stores and squeeze out competitors,” Uthmeier said.

— Yes to fireworks, no to fires —

Let freedom ring, but don’t let the woods.

With the Fourth of July and America’s 250th anniversary around the corner, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service are urging Floridians to celebrate responsibly by following local burn regulations and county burn bans where applicable.

Nobody wants you pulling a Jason Pierre-Paul or burning down Smokey Bear’s neighborhood because someone had one too many in the name of freedom.

“The past six months have been one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory, and though recent rains have helped rein in drought conditions, the risk of wildfire still exists in Florida and needs to be taken seriously,” Simpson said.

Since the start of the year, more than 2,440 wildfires have burned over 176,000 acres across Florida after drought conditions at the end of 2025 intensified wildfire activity statewide.

“The start of our Summer rainy season has helped lift most of the state’s countywide burn bans, but we continue to have wildfire flare-ups around the state. We want to urge everyone to be mindful when burning or using fireworks near a wooded area. Always keep a water supply nearby and be prepared to act quickly if a fire starts,” said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan.

Officials recommend lighting fireworks only in cleared areas, keeping water nearby, never using homemade fireworks, soaking spent fireworks before disposal, storing fireworks and lighters away from children, never leaving fires unattended, and calling 911 immediately if a fire breaks out.

— Cash after the storm —

Hurricane Ian made landfall nearly four years ago, but rebuilding doesn’t end when the skies clear.

FloridaCommerce this week announced more than $7.2 million in new awards through the Hurricane Ian Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program, helping local governments meet FEMA match requirements for infrastructure and resiliency projects designed to withstand future storms better.

The latest round includes nearly $5.9 million for Charlotte County, with funding supporting a Public Works Hurricane Safe Room generator and a leachate waste plant generator project. Other awards include nearly $284,000 for the City of Palatka’s lift station generator project, about $751,000 for the Port of the Islands Community Improvement District’s Union Road water storage and infrastructure retrofit, and roughly $319,000 for Seminole County’s Shad Lane mitigation reconstruction project.

“Thanks to Gov. DeSantis’ commitment to strengthening our state’s long-term resiliency, Florida communities are getting the support they need to bolster critical infrastructure and storm-readiness,” Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly said.

Since its inception, the Hurricane Ian Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program has awarded more than $12 million in matching grants to communities still recovering from one of Florida’s costliest storms.

— Instagram of the week —

— Weld for America —

Art meets trade school.

This week, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced the winners of the Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge, showcasing student craftsmanship, creativity and patriotism ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.

And some of them are pretty sweet to say the least.

“As we recognize America’s 250th anniversary, this competition highlights the innovation and technical skills developing across Florida’s career and technical education programs. These student projects reflect the hands-on learning experiences that are strengthening Florida’s workforce, preparing students for success in high-demand careers and positioning Florida as the national leader for workforce education,” Kamoutsas said.

The competition challenged students from Florida’s public secondary and postsecondary institutions to design original metalwork commemorating America’s semiquincentennial. The finished pieces are intended as permanent installations on campuses and in communities across the state.

A special shoutout goes to Tallahassee’s Lively Technical College, whose sculpture featuring a bald eagle, crossed muskets with bayonets, American flags and the Liberty Bell earned the Commissioner’s Choice award in the technical college division. There were also winners in the secondary school, Florida College System, Technical Excellence and People’s Choice categories.

Check out the students’ work here.

— Knot on the noggin —

Not a finger.

The Florida Highway Patrol’s Criminal Alien Apprehension Team, working alongside U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, announced the arrest of a Mexican national accused of assaulting an ICE agent during a June 16 traffic stop in Orange County.

Authorities say multiple occupants fled on foot after the vehicle was stopped near Americana Boulevard and Pointe Vista Circle. During the pursuit, Elias Bautista allegedly fought with officers, striking an ICE agent in the head before escaping.

“Assaulting and obstructing law enforcement officers is a felony, and anyone who does so will be fully prosecuted,” said ERO Miami Field Office Director Matthew Elliston.

Investigators with FHP, ICE and Homeland Security Investigations used surveillance footage, witness interviews, intelligence gathering and law enforcement databases to track Bautista, who authorities say entered the country illegally. With assistance from the Levy County Sheriff’s Office, he was arrested on June 18 after allegedly resisting law enforcement a second time.

“Every day, our State Troopers and law enforcement partners demonstrate exceptional professionalism and courage as they carry out their duties to protect the people of Florida,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner.

— Promise altered? —

Will the American Dream continue for these individuals?

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to end Temporary Protected Status for thousands of Haitian and Syrian immigrants throughout Florida and the United States. In response to the decision, House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell released a statement sharing her thoughts on the case.

“Hundreds of thousands of people woke up today protected by the promise of America. Tonight, many are wondering whether that promise still exists. Many TPS recipients did exactly what the law required of them. They registered with the federal government, underwent screening, renewed their status, and built their lives around a legal program established by Congress. The message sent by repeatedly dismantling lawful immigration pathways is a troubling one,” Driskell said.

She continued: “These are our neighbors, co-workers, and community members. They work legally, pay taxes, raise families, and contribute to our country every day. This decision is part of a broader effort by President Donald Trump to restrict legal immigration pathways and make life more difficult for immigrant families, regardless of the contributions they have made or the dangers they would face if forced to return home.”

The 6-3 ruling overturned decisions by federal judges that had blocked the administration from terminating TPS for roughly 350,000 people from Haiti and an additional 6,100 from Syria.

“History will remember how we responded in moments like this. We should choose compassion over cruelty and remain committed to the values that have long made America a beacon of hope for those seeking safety and opportunity. Our prayers remain with the Haitian and Syrian families whose futures were thrown into uncertainty today,” Driskell concluded.

— Spectrum Alert —

Every second counts.

Great news for those who care about children’s safety, as this week, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Missing Persons and Offender Enforcement Division (MPOE) is gearing up to launch the “Florida Spectrum Alert.”

The alert, established last year by the Legislature and signed into law by DeSantis, is used to quickly mobilize the community and state to assist in safely locating missing children with autism spectrum disorder. This group can often be misunderstood, especially by law enforcement.

“When our FDLE inspectors, agents and analysts work with law enforcement on missing persons cases, we know that time is of the essence. The Spectrum Alert is another resource for the community that helps agencies get information to the public faster and bring Florida’s most innocent and vulnerable home safely. FDLE remains steadfast in our mission in protecting Florida’s children,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.

The criteria for a Spectrum Alert and Enhanced Spectrum Alert are the same for the Missing Child Alert and Enhanced Missing Child Alert but also include the requirement that the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction reasonably believes that the child has ASD. For the Spectrum Alert to be sounded, five things must occur:

— The child must be under 18 years of age.

— The law enforcement agency of jurisdiction must reasonably believe that the child has ASD.

— The law enforcement agency of jurisdiction must have a well-founded belief, based on an active investigation, that the child is in danger of death or serious bodily injury.

— There must be a detailed description and/or a photograph of the child to broadcast to the public.

— The law enforcement agency of jurisdiction must recommend activation.

There’s also an Enhanced Spectrum Alert, which is activated under the same criteria but emphasizes if the child is in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury.

The alert will be distributed by Florida’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) to any citizen who has signed up to receive the alerts and displayed on dynamic highway messages and on the FDLE’s public website and social media accounts.

Sign up to receive Florida Spectrum Alerts through email or text messages here.

— Welcome aboard —

The Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking is adding another veteran law enforcement leader to its Board.

Appointed to the Alliance’s Board of Directors by the FDLE Commissioner, Melissa Bujeda serves as FDLE’s Director of Missing Persons and Offender Enforcement and Immigration Support, overseeing Florida’s Missing Endangered Person Information Clearinghouse and the state’s sexual predator, offender and career offender registries.

Bujeda brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience, including time with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, where she specialized in child abuse, sex crimes, human trafficking and kidnapping investigations. She also previously served as Director of Communications for the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office.

“Melissa Bujeda brings an extraordinary combination of investigative expertise, statewide public safety leadership and deep compassion for vulnerable children and families,” said Erin Collins, Executive Director of the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking.

“Her experience working at the intersection of law enforcement, child protection and community engagement will be an incredible asset as we continue expanding training, awareness and prevention efforts across Florida.”

The nonprofit works with law enforcement, government agencies, businesses and community organizations to combat human trafficking through education, training, prevention and public awareness across Florida.

— Historic Capitol Foundation names officers —

Florida’s Historic Capitol has a new leadership team.

The Florida Historic Capitol Foundation announced its new slate of officers, naming Ed H. Moore as Chair. Joining him are Sara Gonzalez as Vice Chair, Jim Brainerd as Treasurer, Marti Coley as Secretary and Jeff Kottkamp as Immediate Past Chair.

Created by the Legislature in 2009, the Foundation supports preservation of the Florida Historic Capitol Museum while helping fund exhibits, civic education initiatives and long-term maintenance of the historic building, which was famously saved from demolition in the late 1970s through a grassroots preservation effort.

Today, the restored 1902 Capitol welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year, offering Floridians and schoolchildren alike a firsthand look at the state’s political history.

The restoration, completed in 1982, was conducted under the supervision of the Department of General Services in conjunction with the Department of State. This intensive project of historical and archaeological investigation makes Florida’s former Capitol one of the most thoroughly documented restoration projects in the nation.

— Need for speed —

The Fast and the Furious, Big Bend edition.

The Florida Highway Patrol, working with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, arrested Zachary Read, 36, on Monday following a June 18 pursuit through Tallahassee.

Authorities say FHP attempted to stop Read on State Road 61 after he was spotted traveling northbound; he immediately fled, reaching speeds of 90 mph in a 45-mph zone, driving into oncoming traffic and disregarding public safety.

Troopers attempted a Precision Immobilization Technique on Bragg Drive, but Read allegedly rammed a law enforcement vehicle before continuing the chase. The pursuit ended only after he lost control of his vehicle and crashed head-on into a tree. Authorities say he continued resisting before officers took him into custody after a brief struggle.

A search of Read and his vehicle turned up a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Probably not worth all the hassle.

Prosecutors charged Read with multiple felonies, including aggravated fleeing and eluding, battery on a law enforcement officer, driving with a suspended license as a habitual offender, and fleeing after a crash with property damage. He also faces misdemeanor charges for resisting an officer without violence, marijuana possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, along with eight hit-and-run counts tied to the pursuit.

— Fellowship x FAMU —

“The Hill” may be where most Rattler attention lands, but let’s not forget about the students making waves in Orlando.

This week, Florida A&M University College of Law announced that four students have been selected as 2026 Justice John Paul Stevens Public Interest Fellows. The fellowship provides financial, training and networking support to law students pursuing unpaid public-interest internships and recognizes those who have demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, public-interest law and social justice.

“FAMU College of Law is honored by our long collaboration with the John Paul Stevens Foundation. The Public Interest Fellowship Program provides invaluable support to students that, by their commitment, exemplify the College’s mission to be a catalyst for social change and provide legal advocacy to underserved individuals, families, and communities,” said Mark Dorosin, associate professor of law and director of Legal Clinics & Field Placements.

The four Fellows and their placements:

— Cierra Broughton, 3L — Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office (Summer 2026)

— Bethany Humphrey, 3L — Ninth Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office (Summer 2026)

— Alexandria Atkins, 3L — Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office (Fall 2026)

— Gabrielle Henry, 2L — Fifth Circuit Regional Conflict Counsel (Fall 2026)

“Earning the Justice John Paul Stevens Public Interest Fellowship reflects the passion, integrity, and dedication our students bring to public interest law,” said Cecil Howard, associate provost and interim dean of FAMU College of Law.

“We are incredibly proud of these students and are confident they will continue to make meaningful contributions that advance access to justice in serving those most in need.”

The John Paul Stevens Foundation works to promote democracy, the rule of law, access to justice and equality by supporting law students and lawyers pursuing careers in the public interest.

“Our partnership with Florida A&M University College of Law remains a cornerstone of our mission to invest in a diverse pipeline of future public interest leaders. By providing these critical grants, we ensure that dedicated students can accept impactful, unpaid public service internships that would otherwise be financially out of reach,” said Sara Woods, executive director of the John Paul Stevens Foundation.

“These Fellows embody Justice Stevens’ profound belief that the lawyer is a guardian of our freedom, and we are proud to support them as they work to ensure access to justice in their communities.”

— 20 years of STEM success —

Here’s to two decades — and many more.

This week, the Florida Center for Research in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics at Florida State University is celebrating its 20th anniversary and the role it has played in shaping STEM education in classrooms across Florida. Through research-based tools and technologies, the center has helped prepare students for careers in tomorrow’s workforce.

Created by the Florida Legislature in 2006 and competitively awarded to FSU, FCR-STEM has operated through the university’s Learning Systems Institute ever since.

“FCR-STEM has had a remarkable impact on STEM education in Florida over the past 20 years. Their researchers have consistently pioneered innovative technologies to equip our K-12 educators with the tools and resources they need to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s workforce. By empowering educators, FCR-STEM ensures Florida’s students are positioned to thrive and lead in the next generation of work,” said Stacey Patterson, Vice President for Research.

The center’s mission is to improve STEM teaching and learning in Florida’s K-12 classrooms, narrow achievement gaps and encourage more students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Among its best-known innovations are CPALMS, MyStemKits, the Math Formative Assessment System and its leadership in Cognitively Guided Instruction.

“FCR-STEM has positively impacted STEM education in Florida’s K-12 classrooms for two decades. For 20 years, LSI team members have looked forward and innovated new systems and platforms, giving Florida educators the tools to put our children in a position to capitalize on the opportunities that the next generation of work will present,” said Rabieh Razzouk, director of the Learning Systems Institute and FCR-STEM.

Over the years, FCR-STEM has received support from the U.S. Department of Education, the Florida Department of Education, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the National Science Foundation, the Office of Naval Research, the Everglades Foundation and eight Florida School Boards.

Since 2006, the center has secured more than 150 research grants totaling more than $190 million.

— Meet Ava —

Meet North Florida’s newest Gemini.

This week, Tallahassee State College announced the launch of Ava, an artificial intelligence-powered virtual assistant designed to help students quickly access information, complete routine tasks and connect with campus resources while easing the load on college staff.

“Ava represents another step forward in our commitment to student success and innovation. Today’s students expect convenient, personalized support. By leveraging artificial intelligence responsibly, we are expanding access to information and services while helping students get the answers they need when they need them,” said Jim Murdaugh, President of Tallahassee State College.

Available through Student Central, TSC’s centralized student support hub, Ava can assist students by chat or phone with questions about admissions, financial aid, registration, transcripts, student records and account information. The virtual assistant is part of the College’s broader effort to incorporate innovative technologies into the student experience.

Perhaps most importantly, Ava doesn’t clock out at 5 p.m. — because, as everyone knows, that’s exactly when questions seem to pop up.

“Ava is the result of strong collaboration between Information Technology and Student Affairs, with a shared focus on improving the student experience,” said Jason Fowler, Vice President for Information Technology.

“By using AI-powered automation in a thoughtful way, we can help students get answers faster while giving our staff more capacity to support complex needs.”

Students and parents can learn more about Ava by visiting Student Central at studentcentral.tsc.fl.edu or by calling (850) 201-4444.

— Leon NACo sweep —

Excellence is one thing. Sustaining it is another.

Leon County has added eight more National Association of Counties Achievement Awards to its trophy case, bringing its total to 126 national honors since 2013.

The annual awards recognize innovative county government programs from across the country that improve residents’ quality of life, spanning everything from historic preservation to civic engagement.

“National recognition like this reflects the County’s commitment to finding innovative solutions that improve the lives of residents every day. From enhancing services to strengthening our community, these award-winning programs demonstrate what local government can achieve when it remains focused on delivering meaningful results,” said Christian Caban, Chair of the Leon County Commission.

This year’s winning programs included the World Athletics Cross Country Championships, the Miccosukee Community Center revitalization, Family Resource Centers, a road closure response and awareness platform, a peer support mental health initiative for employees, a volunteer management training series, updated infrastructure engineering standards, and the Leon County-Tallahassee Comprehensive Plan public engagement strategy.

“This national recognition reflects Leon County’s strong culture of innovation, service, and commitment to the residents we serve,” said Vincent S. Long, Leon County Administrator.

“Achieving and sustaining this level of excellence is only possible because of the dedication of our county employees and the continued leadership and support of our County Commission.”

“One Battle After Another” may have swept the Oscars this Spring with six wins, but even Paul Thomas Anderson would be jealous of this haul.

— Small-town thieves —

What’s your favorite heist movie, and why is it Heat?

Also, are you open to some local competition? The Tallahassee Police Department announced this week the arrest of James Bryant, 54, in connection with the recent robbery of a Regions Bank branch.

Just before 9 a.m. on June 22, officers responded to the Regions Bank at 2266 N. Monroe St. after a robbery had just occurred. Detectives say Bryant arrived with two other people, entered the bank, handed a teller a note demanding money and left with a lot of cash.

Well, some cash.

OK, it was only around $3,000. But it was stolen from a bank during business hours.

Yes, $3,000 total. Before the split. Way to ruin everything.

Moving on … investigators quickly identified Bryant as a suspect and arrested him on robbery and grand theft charges. Authorities said he was carrying more than $900 in cash — mostly large-denomination bills … presumably fives and up — along with other evidence linking him to the crime.

Detectives also arrested Brandon Dodson, 43, who they say drove Bryant to and from the bank before later accepting a share of the stolen money. Dodson was charged with accessory after the fact to armed robbery and grand theft.

— Supergirl & Jackass —

It’s either raining or 100-plus degrees, so why not catch a flick at an icy-cold cinema near you?

The second official film in James Gunn’s DCU, “Supergirl,” flies into theaters this weekend and is directed by Emmy nominee Craig Gillespie and stars Milly Alcock of “House of the Dragon” and “Sirens” fame, both award darling shows, as the titular role and Jason Momoa as Lobo. Now you might think to yourself, wasn’t Momoa just involved in the old DC films that were so mid that Warner Brothers eventually gave up on them?

Why yes, yes, he was.

But Gunn and Momoa both felt Lobo was a role he was born to play, so forget the 2023 Aquaman movie and enjoy the ride. The film follows Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, as she struggles to find her way as a traditional hero. It isn’t receiving the strongest reviews — 57% on Rotten Tomatoes (76% audience), 6.0 on IMDB, and a 3.1 on Letterboxd isn’t terrible, but definitely not what the studio had in mind for their sophomore effort.

The other big opening this weekend is the MTV cult-classic movie series” supposed swan song, “Jackass: Best and Last.” The gang you’ve come to know and love (or hate) is all here — Johnny Knoxville, Steve-O and Wee Man and is directed by longtime collaborator Jeff Tremaine.

Does anyone actually need a synopsis? The bottom line is the same as ever: if the prior entries were up your alley, go ahead and grab your ticket.

And at home, there are some good options as well. The final season of Hulu’s acclaimed Emmy sweeper (although we will die on the hill that it is not a comedy) about a Chicago-based restaurant, “The Bear,” is back with stars Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Ayo Edebiri, who have each secured Emmy wins for their now iconic characters, in the rotation. Critics say the final season sticks to the landing, offering a character-driven, scaled-back season in time and scope. Rotten Tomatoes agrees — it’s sitting at 98%.

The second season of Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the cult-classic children’s show “Avatar: The Last Airbender” dropped on Thursday and follows the same arc as the original show, with this being book two, or “Earth.” And while not as hated as the M. Night Shyamalan rendition, the show still has naysayers questioning it as a cash grab. But the second season received better reviews than the first and is sitting at 71% on Rotten Tomatoes (69% audience).

Or if you are in the mood for something more patriotic, you can check out “The American Experiment” on Netflix. The doc examines the American founders’ ideals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness that gave rise to a nation that’s been going strong for 250 years. It is narrated by Emmy winner Martin Sheen and Executive Produced by two-time Oscar winner-slash-America’s dad, Tom Hanks.

— Capitol Directions —

Ron DeSantis — Down arrow — I built a torture chamber at Alligator Alcatraz, and all I got was this stupid T-shirt.

Ron DeSantis, Part 2 — Down arrow — We’ll never know how many would-be model citizens ate pavement on the way home from the SoE.

Board of Governors — Down arrow — Medice, rege te ipsum.

Danny Perez — Crossways arrow — The Panhandle booster only had a Matt Gaetz common and a pile of Homarids.

Stasi Kamoutsas — Up arrow — The proctor finally beat the DC.

FDACS — Up arrow — Sorry, mealy bugs. The guy wearing the boots knows where to step.

Cody Farrill — Up arrow — Careful, Florida might get used to competent PR.

Bryan Desloge — Up arrow — TANSTAAFL still hasn’t been repealed.

Cities & Counties — Down arrow — Show your proofs.

Jennifer Bradley & Demi Busada — Up arrow — git commit -m “Fix affordable housing. Again.”

James Buchanan — Up arrow — Next stop: government discovers wholesale interchange.

Barbara Sharief, Jervonte Edmonds — Up arrow — Finally, a bill with some teeth.

Michelle Obama — Up arrow — 44 Regular is this season’s must-have.

Doak Campbell — Down arrow — MMR decay is real.

John Adams — Down arrow — Sorry, John, it’s the 4th!