Takeaways from Tallahassee — Zooming along

After a week of maps, maps, and more maps, Floridians are at least getting something that might actually help navigate them.

Whether it’s the classic trip to Disney World, a run to the thousands of beaches up and down the coast, or some R&R day at the springs, the best way to get there is usually by hitting the road. And one of the most important arteries in Florida travel is getting an upgrade — don’t worry, traffic skeptics, it’s already ahead of schedule.

Thursday in Ormond Beach (which we’re pretty sure is still in CD 6 …), Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Transportation held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off reconstruction of the I-95 interchange at U.S. 1, which is one of the oldest interchanges in the state highway system and a key travel corridor.

Part of the Moving Florida Forward initiative, the project was originally slated to begin a year from now, but accelerated construction practices pushed the timeline forward.

The Governor credited the state’s “responsible fiscal governance” for putting Florida “in the position to make transformative investments in our state’s infrastructure.”

“Florida is consistently ranked in the top five states with the highest-quality roadways, and the Moving Florida Forward Initiative ensures that Florida will continue to be a model of efficient and cost-effective infrastructure investment.”

While the groundbreaking is ahead of schedule, the project itself was already fast-tracked by 15 to 20 years after the initiative was fully funded.

The timeline boost is partly due to a Modified Phased Design-Build approach, which builds on existing delivery methods to accelerate construction, streamline resources and reduce costs.

“These new enhancements will bring much-needed congestion relief and safety improvements as U.S. 1 traffic volumes are expected to double in the next 20 years. By reconstructing the I-95 interchange and increasing U.S. 1 capacity by 50%, this project is expected to have a $554 million regional economic impact in the Volusia County community,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue.

This project will include a new interchange design that adds three new bridges and redesigned loop ramps on I-95, in theory making it easier and safer for drivers entering and exiting the interstate. Drivers, especially those who aren’t familiar with the area, will have more time to react and adjust their speed for safer access to and from I-95 with the new extension on the northbound off-ramp and southbound on-ramp.

Both I-95 off-ramps will be widened, and a one-mile stretch of U.S. 1 will expand to six lanes. The new interchange is also expected to serve as a gateway to Ormond Beach, with design elements reflecting the community.

___

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—

New maps — The Legislature has passed a new congressional map proposed by DeSantis. By a 21-17 vote, with Republican Sens. Jenn Bradley, Alexis Calatayud, Ileana Garcia and Erin Grall breaking from their own party to vote with Democrats, the Senate approved the map after the House approved it. The upper chamber debated the cartography more rigorously than the House, which rushed the map through without Republicans advocating for the product before voting for it. The map, if it survives an almost certain legal challenge, could net congressional Republicans an additional four seats, offsetting Democratic gains from a similar redistricting effort in Virginia.

Called it — DeSantis and the Republican Party of Florida are celebrating a U.S. Supreme Court decision they say affirms the constitutionality of the new map. After the 6-3 decision in the long-awaited Louisiana v. Callais case, DeSantis General Counsel David Axelman wrote legislators to “continue to urge (them) to enact the proposed congressional map” in light of a novel interpretation of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), which has been long held as a justification for minority-access districts as Florida had for decades. DeSantis on social media said he “called this one months ago,” adding, “The decision implicates a District in FL — the legal infirmities of which have been corrected in the newly-drawn (and soon to be enacted) map.”

Happy May Day — DeSantis has signed legislation weakening public employee unions, as he aimed at Florida’s teacher union. At a news conference, DeSantis said he was signing SB 1296 to “provide once and for all for the decertification of partisan teacher unions.” SB 1296 amends the law to require at least 50% of a public employees’ bargaining unit to vote in certification, recertification and decertification elections. If fewer than 60% of members pay dues, the bargaining unit must petition the state for recertification. The changes don’t apply to public safety unions, like those representing police officers, which DeSantis has supported. FEA slammed the timing of DeSantis’ bill-signing, which falls on May 1, International Workers’ Day.

No-go — House Speaker Daniel Perez said at the start of the Special Session that bills on artificial intelligence and eliminating vaccine mandates for students are dead in the House, putting a halt to the legislation. That defies the wishes of DeSantis, who put pressure on the Legislature to pass his agenda items during a Special Session this week. But Perez said no bills have been filed by the House as the lower chamber quickly convened on the first day of the Special Session. “We were fairly clear on our position during Session, and neither of these bills moved through the House and the Committee process,” Perez said Tuesday.

Yikes — In the wake of getting a new congressional map passed that he said was “race-neutral,” Florida’s Governor put particular emphasis on how he apparently believes a Black ideological adversary talks when celebrating the achievement. DeSantis is escalating his war of words with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, trying to mock the New York Democrat’s cadence during a media conference on road construction. DeSantis, who often deepens his voice to parody his critics as sounding dumb, went further on this occasion. “He goes out there, and he’s like, um, ‘we’re gonna do maximum warfare against Republicans. Florida Republicans, you F around, you gonna find out,’ all this stuff,” DeSantis said. DeSantis then resumed his Jeffries impersonation, albeit with less bass in his voice.

— Busted —

A 59-year-old Starke man is facing charges related to being a sexual predator of a minor.

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Gary Adams is accused of five counts of possession of child sexual abuse materials and one count of unlawful use of a two-way communication device. A probe was launched on April 24 after Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigators received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that he was sharing and uploading illegal material on his Facebook account.

FDLE investigators then connected the initial tip to 31 additional complaints about Adams’ Facebook account.

“Sharing images and videos of child sexual abuse is a predator’s way of controlling the victims, and we cannot allow that cycle to continue,” Uthmeier said in a news release. “Anyone possessing or distributing these materials is contributing to the abuse. We will continue hunting down every child predator in Florida and ensure they remain behind bars.”

FDLE officials and Bradford County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Adams at his home on April 29. He is being held at the Bradford County Jail on a $850,000 bond. If convicted, Adams could face up to 30 years in prison.

— Cottonmouth —

It’s drier than a popcorn fart out in Florida, which can lead to dangerous conditions.

This past week, Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia shared wildfire safety tips on social media amid extreme drought conditions across the state.

Anytime it’s this dry, fires can spread quickly, causing massive damage to wildlife and property. Residents should follow local burn bans to protect themselves, their property and their communities.

“As we enter the wildfire season, I am encouraging all Floridians to be proactive when it comes to fire safety. Prevention and preparedness are the best tools we can use against wildfires. I’m thankful for the hard work of Florida’s forestry firefighters, but by taking the necessary precautions, we can reduce the number of fires our firefighters have to respond to and ensure the safety of our communities,” Ingoglia said.

Since 2026, the Florida Forest Service has recorded more than 1,700 wildfires burning over 100,000 acres of state and federal land. Currently, 42 counties have burn bans in place, prohibiting activities such as campfires, bonfires and burning yard waste. Track updates here.

Ingoglia also shared a video on social media.

General safety tips for homes and communities include paying attention to emergency alerts; avoiding outdoor burning; clearing roofs and gutters of debris such as pine needles, leaves and branches; mowing vegetation within 100 feet of homes; keeping a garden hose connected; storing flammable materials at least 20 feet from structures; avoiding littering cigarette butts; not parking on dry grass; and keeping important personal data in a password-protected digital space.

— Instagram of the week —

— Educator awards —

The next generation will solve global warming, cure cancer and figure out the inevitable AI energy crunch (well, we hope they will, at least).

Right now, they’re being educated and readied by some of the best Florida has to offer. And it’s time to recognize a few of those standout leaders.

This week, Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas announced the 2026 Florida Principal of the Year, Florida Assistant Principal of the Year and Florida School-Related Employee of the Year: Brooke Loyed of Patronis Elementary School in Bay County (Principal), Reshonda Scott of East Ridge High School in Lake County (Assistant Principal) and Chris Hattaway of Rockledge High School in Brevard County (School-Related Employee).

“Strong leadership is essential to shaping the success of our students, supporting our educators and strengthening the future of our state. I applaud these leaders for their commitment to excellence and the lasting impact they are making in their schools and communities,” Kamoutsas said.

First established in 1988, the Principal of the Year award includes a $3,575 prize. Loyed was recognized for outstanding leadership and academic gains, including increasing the percentage of third graders performing at grade level in English Language Arts from 67% to 79% over the past four years.

Scott has worked in Lake County Schools since 2013 and as an Assistant Principal since 2018. She helped boost the share of high school seniors on track to complete their courses by 40%. She received a $2,500 prize.

Hattaway is a school resource officer who has fostered a sense of safety, mentorship and community engagement among students. He also launched a voluntary student support initiative and introduced K9 Trusty, a therapy dog aimed at building connections between law enforcement and youth. He received a $10,000 prize.

— Two years later, justice —

Sometimes it takes time, but justice does its thing.

This week, Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner announced that Corrine Adrianna Blue — who was involved in a vehicle crash that killed three Palm Beach County Deputy Sheriffs on Nov. 21, 2024 — has been arrested.

Following a Florida Highway Patrol investigation, Blue faces three counts of vehicular homicide.

“We are thankful for the decision of State Attorney Alexcia Cox and her office in seeking and obtaining this felony warrant for arrest. We now turn our attention to the judicial process, where a jury of the defendant’s peers will decide the ultimate outcome,” Kerner said.

“Regardless of the ultimate outcome, we remember Corporal Luis Paez, Deputy Sheriff Ralph ‘Butch’ Waller, and Deputy Sheriff Ignacio ‘Dan’ Diaz as heroes of our community. We recognize the pain and loss their families, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and the community at large have experienced.”

Blue was arrested by State Troopers pursuant to a warrant issued by a 15th Judicial Circuit Court Judge on April 30.

“These charges follow a thorough review of the evidence and mark an important step in the pursuit of justice for the families of Corporal Paez, Deputy Diaz, and Deputy Waller. These deputies were serving this community when their lives were tragically taken by a reckless driver,” Cox said.

Anytime you get behind the wheel, be aware, be sober, and remember: reckless driving puts more than just your own life at risk.

— Right direction —

New unemployment claims in Florida have dropped consistently in the back of April.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) reports the Sunshine State had 5,375 initial jobless filings for the week ending April 25. It’s a slight decrease of 284 claims from the week ending April 18, when there were 5,659 new filings. There was a more significant drop of nearly 1,000 claims for that week.

Florida’s general trend aligns with the national indicators. DOL officials say there were 179,765 initial unemployment claims last week. It’s a more pronounced drop, though, than the Florida decline. Nationally, the figure fell by 26,668 new filings from the previous week.

That’s a 12.9% slide.

It’s a bigger drop than DOL analysts had expected. Those economists projected a 0.8% decline, or 1,724 fewer, in unemployment claims across the country.

The latest initial jobless claims figures also show a substantial drop in the year-over-year comparison. There were 224,021 initial claims nationally for the comparable week in 2025. That’s a whopping 21.9% difference in the national annual comparison.

While the latest decline in new jobless claims in Florida was nominal, it’s still good news compared to the state’s overall unemployment rate.

That figure has been increasing in the last few data releases by FloridaCommerce, the state’s economic development bureau. The most recent monthly jobless rate was 4.6% in February. It was an indicator of an upward trajectory for the state. It was the second month in a row that the figure rose after January’s unemployment rate rose to 4.5%.

— Consumer confidence slips again —

Florida consumer confidence wavered for the second straight month in April.

A University of Florida report on consumer sentiment shows the outlook dropped 3.5 points, falling from 78.1 in March to 74.6 in April. That matches the national figure, which also declined 3.5 points over the past month.

Hector Sandoval, Director of the Economic Analysis Program at the UF Bureau of Economic and Business Research, said he wasn’t surprised by the findings as the war with Iran continues to rattle the economy.

“The decline in sentiment is not unexpected, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered a global energy shock,” Sandoval said. “This has led to a sharp rise in gasoline prices and renewed inflationary pressures, with monthly inflation posting its largest acceleration since 2022. These rising costs are straining household finances, even as the broader labor market remains relatively stable.”

Sandoval and other analysts rely on a group of indexes to gauge consumer outlook. The UF survey shows all five leading economic perceptions declined among Floridians in April.

Opinions on personal financial situations compared to a year ago fell sharply, dropping from 74.6 in March to 70.5 in April. The outlook for U.S. economic conditions over the next year saw the steepest slide, declining from 79.8 to 73.4.

The UF report aligns with more troubling economic signals this month, as FloridaCommerce officials reported the unemployment rate is rising. The latest report for February showed the state’s jobless rate hit 4.6%. It’s the second consecutive month Florida exceeded the national rate, which stood at 4.4% in February.

— Payday potential —

Florida’s Special Session, beginning May 12 to reconcile the state budget, will draw particular attention from state employees.

The 18-day Session aims to hammer out a spending plan for the 2026-27 fiscal year, which begins July 1. While the House and Senate were unable to reconcile their spending plans during the Regular Session, pay raises for state workers are on the line in the upcoming Special Session.

“I think it’s critical,” said Tallahassee Democratic Rep. Allison Tant. “They’re not getting adequate pay. Employees leave state jobs because they’re not being paid enough.”

At issue is a 3% across-the-board pay hike for state employees, according to a Senate budget proposal (SPB 2500). Workers such as state park rangers, prison guards, law enforcement and firefighters would get an additional 2% raise.

Tant represents House District 9, which encompasses the state capital, Tallahassee and surrounding areas. She said for her constituents, many of whom are state employees, the pay issue has a major impact.

“This is the backbone of the economy of Tallahassee with the state capitol and state employees,” Tant said. “They’re headquartered here, and this is home base.”

She said pay increases for state employees are needed amid rising concerns about affordability in general in Florida.

“We need to make sure that people who work here can afford to live here by paying them adequately for their educational background and for their experience and for what they contribute to the well-being of the state. It’s hand-in-glove for me,” Tant said.

— FLC approves —

It’s not often these days that a politician gets positive affirmation, so go ahead and take a bow.

This week, the Florida League of Cities — a unified voice for Florida’s municipal governments — recognized Rep. Jose Alvarez in Kissimmee with the 2026 Legislative Appreciation Award for his work during the 2026 Legislative Session to protect local decision-making.

“I am truly honored to receive the Florida League of Cities 2026 Legislative Appreciation Award,” Alvarez said.

“Supporting our cities means supporting the people who call them home, and I remain committed to strengthening our communities, empowering local leadership, and ensuring every municipality has the tools to thrive.”

The Florida League of Cities gives the award to highlight lawmakers who consistently champion its priorities during the Legislative Session. In 2026, the group pointed to Alvarez’s contributions and support for local control.

Efforts such as proposing amendments to avoid preemption and unfunded mandates, while building support for local self-governance, helped put Alvarez over the top.

— Geic-uh-oh —

No matter what they say in commercials, you may need more than fifteen minutes for this.

This week in Lauderhill, Rep. Lisa Dunkley is urging her constituents — and all Florida drivers insured by GEICO — to immediately check their driver’s license status after the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issued a notice about a possible insurance reporting error.

GEICO customers who received a driver license suspension notice and had a policy renewed between Jan. 1 and April 13 may have had their insurance status incorrectly reported to FLHSMV as canceled.

“Floridians should not have to deal with the fear, confusion, or consequences of a license suspension because of a reporting error. A suspended license can impact someone’s job, family responsibilities, insurance costs, and daily life. I am urging GEICO customers to check their status immediately and take the necessary steps to protect themselves,” Dunkley said in a statement.

Drivers can check their license status here and should review the “Effective Insurance Cancellation Suspensions” section on the site.

If your status shows valid, you’re in the clear. If it shows pending or suspended, follow the instructions in the notice, which may require entering your GEICO policy information to update your record.

We’ve got our eye on you, Australian gecko.

— This isn’t over —

Friday marked May Day, or International Workers’ Day, when workers across the world stand in solidarity. With that seemingly top-of-mind, DeSantis signed SB 1296, legislation he said would “provide, once and for all, for the decertification of partisan teacher unions.”

In Florida, union membership isn’t tilted toward one side of the political spectrum — over 30% of union members are registered Republicans, with close to a third being third-party or no-party voters.

“Today, the Governor gave another win to billionaire-funded out-of-state think tanks at the expense of Florida’s working people. Make no mistake, however: this is a temporary win. While wealthy special interests might believe they have the power in the halls of the Florida Capitol, Florida’s public sector workers have the power and support in our communities statewide to show them otherwise. We will organize and come back stronger than ever,” said Florida AFL-CIO President Kimberly Holdridge following the Governor’s news conference.

The Florida AFL-CIO represents more than 500 local labor unions, 10 councils, and more than one million members, retirees and their families statewide.

Florida AFL-CIO Director of Politics and Public Policy Rich Templin also responded, saying DeSantis’ statements “prove what we have been saying all along.”

“Focusing on the fact that ‘conservative leaders around the country will celebrate this bill,’ Gov. DeSantis spoke about California and Illinois, and notably very little about Florida. This legislation has nothing to do with our state but everything to do with his continued focus on his own national political ambitions. His focus is not on Floridians and their needs,” Templin said.

“His answer to helping our people navigate our growing affordability crisis? Fewer rights and lower wages and benefits for our bus drivers, healthcare workers and educators, all to satisfy the unquenchable thirst of deep-pocketed ideologues and their social media bots. This legislation is all about himself and his ambitions, not Florida’s working families.”

— Sporting a new Committee —

When it comes to sports decisions, you want fair, objective, passionate people making the calls.

This week in Orlando, the Florida Sports Hall of Fame — established in 1961 to honor the state’s top athletes and support youth sports participation — announced a newly formed Advisory Committee.

The Committee is tasked with advancing the group’s mission of celebration, recognition and engagement across Florida’s sports landscape.

“The collective insight of this impressive group of individuals will play an important role in shaping initiatives that honor Florida’s rich sports heritage and inspire future generations. They will ensure the Florida Sports Hall of Fame remains relevant, inclusive and forward-thinking while honoring excellence, achievement, and leadership in sports throughout the state,” said Board Chair Keyna Cory.

The new members hail from the sports industry as well as a broad range of fields that intertwine, including the lobbying corps. The list includes RSA Consulting founder and CEO Ron Pierce, who serves as the go-to guy for sports interests such as the Sunshine State Athletic Conference, Tampa Bay Lightning and others.

The other members, drawn from across the professional sports world and related fields, will serve three-year terms:

— Sean Belgrade (Regional Vice President, Business Operations, NASCAR)

— Jose Bello (Independent Board Director & Strategic Marketing Executive Director, Seminole)

— Cameron Benson (City Manager, City of Miami Gardens)

— Daniel Brown (Director of Ticket Operations, Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium)

— Brian Ford (Chief Operating Officer, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

— Howard Grosswirth (Vice President of Corporate Partnership, Community and Media Relations, New York Yankees)

— Greg Huntington (Senior Account Executive for WM and former Jacksonville Jaguar)

— John Mitchell (Manager of Sustainability, Coca-Cola Florida)

— Cynthia O’Connell (Director, Florida Prepaid College Foundation)

— Jason Pappas (Professor, Florida State University, Department of Sports Management)

— Clemmie Perry (Founder & Executive Director, Women of Color Golf)

— Jack Ramsberger (Clinical Research Coordinator, Advent Health Cancer Institute)

— Joe Ramsberger (Vice President – Retail Services, CBRE)

— Matt Repchak (Chief Marketing Officer, Florida Citrus Sports)

— Walter Roy Smith (President, Atlas Benefits and former MLB player)

The Committee will provide guidance, expertise and strategic recommendations to enhance programming, broaden engagement and elevate the Hall of Fame’s statewide visibility.

— Top tier —

Sachs Media is once again at the top of the heap.

The Tallahassee-based firm remains a dominant force in high-stakes communications and issue advocacy, earning the No. 1 spot among Florida public affairs firms and No. 2 spot nationally in O’Dwyer’s latest industry standings.

The recognition comes as Sachs marks its 30th year and continues to expand its national footprint, building on its reputation for excelling in crisis communications, public affairs, and complex policy campaigns.

The firm’s work has increasingly stretched beyond Florida, with campaigns in more than 30 states and a client roster spanning both the public and private sectors.

In addition to its consistent high rankings, Sachs has been recognized with numerous industry awards, including a Gold Pollie Award from the American Association of Political Consultants and multiple Golden Image Awards.

Sachs Media is led by Drew Piers, who was named firm President in January after 14 years at the company.

— Is that a threat? —

Mess with the bull, get ready for legal consequences.

This week, Diego Villavicencio, 36, of Tallahassee, pleaded guilty to two counts of sending interstate threats, one count of impeding or retaliating against a federal official, and one count of threats against the President. The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida John Heekin.

“As the terrifying events at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner this past weekend showed, threats of violence can quickly escalate to acts of violence by deranged individuals. My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting criminal threats of violence against public officials to stop dangerous individuals, like this defendant, before they become would-be assassins,” Heekin said.

“Criminal threats directed at public officials are becoming alarmingly more common, and this must stop now. We have zero tolerance for such criminality in the Northern District of Florida and will seek maximum punishments to keep our public officials safe.”

Court documents show Villavicencio made multiple online threats targeting President Donald Trump, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell over several months.

On Sept. 15, 2025, he posted on Twitter/X an image depicting a red sight and crosshairs pointed at Powell’s head with the text “Jerome Powell will be shot and killed September 23.”

On Sept. 16, 2025, he again posted threats on the platform, this time directed at a Member of Congress, writing, “I’ll kill you and your family, and you won’t do anything about it. Corruption listens to bullets.”

He also sent a direct message stating, “You are going to be shot and killed on September 24.”

On Jan. 25, 2026, Villavicencio responded to a post on 4chan stating he would drive to Mar-a-Lago “to take a couple of shots at Trump and some of the other corrupt plutocrats …”

Villavicencio faces up to 25 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief District Judge Allen Winso. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Welch is prosecuting the case.

— May for mental health —

You are not alone, and you have options.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Florida Association of Managing Entities is highlighting the growing need for accessible, community-based behavioral health services while pushing a “no wrong door” approach to care.

Data from the National Institute of Mental Health shows more than one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental health condition. At the same time, high rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among young people remain high. It’s time for action, not just talk.

“The conversation around mental health has grown, but so too has the need for action. Awareness is important, but access to timely, effective care is what truly saves lives,” said Natalie Kelly, CEO of the Florida Association of Managing Entities.

Florida has seven behavioral health Managing Entities that serve as the backbone of the state’s safety net, providing access to care regardless of ability to pay through nonprofit, community-based organizations.

Managing Entities have helped expand mobile crisis response teams, address housing instability and strengthen early intervention efforts.

During the month, Floridians are encouraged to check in with themselves and others and not be afraid to ask for help. Dial 2-1-1 to connect with local services, or call or text 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline during moments of extreme emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.

— Shark Tank ooh-ha-ha! —

Ready to get your Mark Cuban on?

Last week at Florida State University’s Innovation Hub, students from across disciplines pitched business ventures in the Student Innovators’ Shark Tank competition.

Hosted by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, the event offered a $1,000 top prize to help launch the next venture.

“The JMC Shark Tank offers students a hands-on opportunity to experience what it’s really like to pitch in front of real entrepreneurs and successful business owners. These students are learning how to communicate under pressure, respond to feedback and adapt their strategies in real time, building a level of professional confidence that sharpens their skills regardless of their major,” said student engagement program coordinator for JMC May Wang.

The competition featured three-minute pitches followed by five-minute Q&A sessions with local business owners and entrepreneurs, judged on originality, strength of the value proposition and market potential.

“Applying what I’m learning in the classroom to real-world projects allows me to see my efforts come to life while building the confidence I need to be ready for my career,” said Samir Kanbar, who competed in the event.

This year’s winner was Larry Harper, a senior majoring in history. His $1,000-winning idea, “Chapter,” uses AI alongside traditional curriculum to boost student engagement while sending performance data back to universities.

“The Shark Tank is one of the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship’s most valuable initiatives. Not only does it provide a space for students to socialize and hear other businesses, but it has proven to be the single most important way for students to pitch their ideas, come back again and again, becoming better each time,” Harper said.

— Peace out, TSC —

It’s that time of year when students cheer — and traffic adds 25 minutes to your drive home.

This week, Tallahassee State College held its Spring Commencement Ceremony at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, celebrating 1,882 graduates.

“It is a privilege to be a part of our students’ educational journey. We are extremely proud of the students’ dedication and perseverance. We look forward to celebrating each of them and this significant milestone,” said TSC President Jim Murdaugh.

The ceremony featured a keynote address from author Amelia Parnell, President of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, as well as remarks from Student Government Association President Bryan Bacallo.

Graduates had their names called as they crossed the stage, shook hands and received their diplomas — or at least the placeholder version with mailing instructions — before taking part in the age-old tassel turn.

— Can I Trustee? —

Welcome back to the TSC Board of Trustees (bars — because that unintentionally rhymed).

On May 1, DeSantis reappointed Sara Bayliss, Eugene Lamb Jr., and Karen Moore to the Tallahassee State College District Board of Trustees.

Bayliss is a college admissions adviser at John Paul II Catholic High School in Tallahassee and a counselor at Game Plan College Admissions Counseling. She earned a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and French from the University of Iowa and a master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University.

Lamb is a retired Leon County Schools teacher with 30 years of service. He previously served as a Gadsden County Commissioner and a member of the Florida Commission on Healthcare and Hospital Funding and the Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors.

Moore is CEO and Founder of The Moore Agency and serves as Chair of the Florida College System Foundation Board of Directors, as well as a member of the Florida Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the BioFlorida Board of Directors. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Central Florida — charge on.

All appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

— PBA picks Ausley —

The Big Bend Chapter of the Florida Police Benevolent Association, which represents more than 500 police officers in Tallahassee, is endorsing former state Sen. Loranne Ausley’s bid for Tallahassee Mayor.

“Throughout her tenure in the Florida State Legislature, Loranne Ausley has always championed the issues that matter most to our officers and their families,” Big Bend Chapter President Richard Murphy said in a news release.

“She has consistently defended the rights of law enforcement officers and advocated for more funding to keep police officers safe, while they are on patrol, protecting our communities,” Murphy said in an official statement.

Ausley is running in a crowded field to succeed incumbent Mayor John Dailey, who announced last year he would not seek a third term. Other candidates include sitting City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow and attorney Daryl Parks.

Packaged alongside the Ausley endorsement was a nod for Talethia Edwards, who is running for the Commission seat Matlow is vacating to run for Mayor.

Murphy said Edwards “will bring both a fresh voice to the City Commission and partner with us to advocate for law enforcement and enhance public safety.”

— Goodbye and Goad Luck —

At some point, everyone decides it’s time to hang it up (unless you’re Jerry Jones).

This week, Tallahassee City Manager Reese Goad announced that after 31 years of public service — including 26 years with the City of Tallahassee — he is stepping down.

Goad joined the city in 2000, serving in various roles before becoming City Manager in 2017.

“It has been my honor to serve as Tallahassee’s City Manager for the last nine years. Throughout my career with the City, it has been a privilege to work alongside exceptional colleagues to strengthen our organization, which is defined by a culture of excellence, deep commitment to teamwork, and an unwavering spirit of resourcefulness,” Goad said.

“Together, we navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and consistently strived to provide the best level of service to the residents of Tallahassee, and I’m proud to say we delivered.”

Under Goad’s leadership, the city strengthened its electric utility, making it one of the largest in Florida and a cornerstone of reliability, affordability and financial stability.

“I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished as a team. The professionalism, innovation, and dedication demonstrated by City staff have set the standard that will continue to guide the organization well into the future.”

The City Commission will determine the timeline for hiring a new City Manager. Goad’s retirement is effective Sept. 30, 2026, or upon the selection of a successor.

— The Devil Wears Animal Farm —

Time to get some use out of your AMC A-list account, because we’ve got your rundown of all things movies.

The 2006 rom-com based on the best-selling book “The Devil Wears Prada” became a box-office success, a fan favorite, scored two Oscar nominations (Best Actress, Best Costume Design), and became the infamous joke/answer to the question of who the worst movie/TV boyfriend ever is.

Two decades later, we get “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” which sees the key cast and crew reprising their roles, with even Meryl Streep breaking her no sequels rule. Streep was the only cast member with Academy clout the first time around, but her co-stars have padded their resumes over the years — Oscar winner Anne Hathaway and Oscar nominees Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci all reprise their roles. Also on board: Emmy winner Justin Theroux, Oscar winner and Shakespeare man Kenneth Branagh, along with Emmy nominees B.J. Novak and Lucy Liu.

So, how is the David Frankel film being received? Great for a sequel 20 years in the making, with a 79% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is 4% higher than the original, a 7.0 on IMDB, and a 3.5 on Letterboxd.

The other big release this weekend is “Animal Farm,” based on George Orwell’s classic novel. The animated film comes from Angel Studios, an independent media company that has received significant attention from right-wing audiences and news outlets. In 2023, they were somewhat put on the map by “Sound of Freedom,” which tackled themes of human trafficking through a Christian lens, along with the theatrical distribution of the popular TV show about Jesus, “The Chosen.” So, is anyone shocked that out of all the books they could’ve chosen, they picked Animal Farm? Not really.

The film, directed by Emmy nominee Andy Serkis of “The Lord of the Rings” and “Planet of the Apes” fame, features the voices of Emmy winner Seth Rogen, Emmy nominee Steve Buscemi, Oscar winner Kieran Culkin, Oscar nominee Kathleen Turner, and eight-time Academy Award loser Glenn Close, along with many other big names. The film is PG, under 100 minutes, and poorly reviewed — 25% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 2.0 on Letterboxd as of this writing.

For those looking for something family-friendly at home, Netflix just dropped the animated movie “Swapped,” which follows a tiny woodland creature and a majestic bird who suddenly swap bodies, experiencing “Freaky Friday” in the woods. The Nathan Greno-directed film stars Oscar-winning Michael B. Jordan, fresh off his recent duo-vampire turn in “Sinners,” and four-time Emmy nominee Juno Temple of Ted Lasso fame. It has a 53% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 3.6 on Letterboxd.

— Capitol Directions —

STATE CONSTITUTION — Crossways arrow — For my friends everything, for my enemies the law.

RON DESANTIS — Up arrow — Elbridge Gerry just got redrawn into the footnotes of history.

RON DESANTIS — Crossways arrow — May Day …  He’s never missed a chance to drive the nail where the wood is soft.

JOSEPH LADAPO — Down arrow — Sorry, the House takes its healthcare cues from, you know, actual medical authorities.

ANGIE NIXON — Up arrow — The bullhorn wasn’t subtle, but neither was the map.

BULLHORNS — Down arrow — But maybe don’t use it next to your colleague’s ear.

DON GAETZ, JPM — Up arrow — That performance deserves an episode of Inside the Actor’s Studio.

JENN BRADLEY — Up arrow — Principles don’t succumb to political convenience. Unfortunately, term limits apply even to those who have them.

ALEXIS CALATAYUD — Up arrow — She continues putting her District over the letter next to her name, much to the dismay of direct mail consultants.

ERIN GRALL, ILEANA GARCIA — Up arrow — Courage is more supply-constrained than diesel right now, but they’ve got a flicker of it.

JASON BRODEUR — Down arrow — It feels like he just booked passage on the Titanic. Maybe he can swim.

FOX NEWS — Up arrow — Straight to Fox, naturally. What, did you think this map was drawn for Floriaudiencesuds?

PALM BEACH CO. SOE — Down arrow — They’re about to log some serious overtime — maybe the PBC delegation can do something about that in a couple of weeks …

PINELLAS CO. — Down arrow — Of course St. Pete Beach has a lot in common with Arcadia.

MARK WALKER — Up arrow — Like Fitzmagic/Fitztragic, we know the lineup, but which version shows up is a mystery.

FLORIDA DECIDES HEALTHCARE — Down arrow — Is it time to just throw in the towel?

JENNA PERSONS MULICKA – Up arrow — Loyalty has its perks.

JENNIFER MITCHELL — Prayer hands — The conversation isn’t over, just paused. Stay strong.

LAUREN BOOK — Up arrow — We’d recommend a victory lap, but after 1,500 miles, maybe just a comfy chair will do.

JOHN CARDILLO — Up arrow — The paycheck says $20K, the product says $2.

DAVID RIVERA — Down arrow — The tab came due.

SLOTH WORLD — Down arrow — Sloths are slow, but our AG isn’t.

GARY FINEOUT — Up arrow — Congrats on scoring the Wilton re-endorsement scoop!

REESE GOAD — Crossways arrow — Congratulations on a job, um, done.

ETHAN PRITCHARD — Up arrow — This is what resilience looks like.