Good morning, Tallahassee.

Today at Backwoods Crossing, Zoe Allaire measured a 13-foot sunflower grown from cross-pollinated seeds started in March; the record-breaking plant, raised alongside peppers, herbs, and grapes at the restaurant farm, will later have its seeds offered to guests (to attract songbirds).

Central Street near St. Mary Primitive Baptist Church in Frenchtown is now Rev.

Dr. Ernest Ferrell Street (honoring his service as the longtime pastor).

The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra will headline the Celebrate America event at Tom Brown Park on Saturday, July 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. cellist Kim Jones returns to the tradition as the evening will feature food trucks, kids' activities, and fireworks at 9:50 p.m. to honor America 250.

Florida State lost its Top Three ranking and Florida A&M landed on the watch list as the Board of Governors approved $645 million in performance funding—FSU scored 93 while FAMU fell to 80.

This decision came after the metrics were finalized on Thursday.

Florida higher education officials are considering a rule to bar undocumented students from enrolling in public universities beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year while current students and online learners remain unaffected.

The state Board of Education will review similar policies for state colleges next week.

Leon County drought conditions eased after heavy rains linked to Tropical Storm Arthur delivered relief by June 25; records show Tallahassee International Airport received nearly 6 inches of rain with other areas seeing even more (meteorologist Wright Dobbs said more rain is needed for full recovery).

Florida Power and Light advises raising your thermostat by one degree to save money during a heat wave with temperatures in the 90s.

Tallahassee residents can lower cooling bills by checking appliance settings and cleaning AC filters ahead of Fourth of July events (America 250 events).

TLH Reckoning will host retired soccer star Crystal Dunn at its final USL-W game against Fort Lauderdale United.

The club (led by founder Ashlee Fontes) expects her visit to boost local women's soccer and inspire young players.

FSU football and track star Micahi Danzy is hosting his 2nd annual speed camp at Florida High today — the sold-out event will offer local athletes coaching in sprint mechanics, acceleration, and agility.

ServSafe Certification Class in Spanish

Fast-track your ServSafe certification — 4-hour class + exam — Hilton Garden Inn Tallahassee — From $159 — Gain your 5-year certification in one day with expert instruction and instant results.

Steve Sternberg Piano Performance

10 AM – 2 PM — Seven Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center — Free entry — Experience the captivating musical journey with pianist Steve Sternberg's energetic and playful compositions.

Tally Contra Dance

7:15-10 p.m. — Tallahassee Senior Center — $10 Adults, $9 Seniors, $6 Students, Free for Kids under 12 — Experience the energetic and welcoming world of contra dancing with live music and beginner lessons.

Infinity Con

10 AM – 1 PM — Donald L. Tucker Civic Center — Tickets required — Explore the universes of sci-fi, comics, and gaming with creators and events for all ages.

Live Music at Summers Smokehouse

6-9 p.m. — Summers Smokehouse — Free entry — Enjoy an unplugged evening with Aidan Patrick and friends in Tallahassee's local hotspot.

Together Festival

12:00 – 11:59 PM — Tom Brown Park — Family-friendly fun — Experience a full day of community, culture, and engaging activities for all ages.

The 850 Band Live Performance

8:30 PM — Duke's & Dottie's — Free entry — Enjoy a long-awaited night of great tunes and cold drinks with The 850 Band.