Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of July.
Good morning, Tallahassee.
Breeze launches nonstop flights from Tallahassee to Raleigh and Fort Lauderdale today with three weekly departures, backed by a $3M city incentive to boost local travel.
MacDinton's Irish Pub will open in CollegeTown this fall after signing a lease for a 12,000 sqft space at student housing complex Perla on 1111 W Gaines Street.
The venue will feature a sports bar atmosphere with Irish dishes and weekday specials.
The Florida Department of Education released school grades for 2025-2026.
In Tallahassee, Bond Elementary improved to an A rating while Gilchrist and Hawk Rise maintained their A streak.
Florida education laws that took effect July 1 changed the way students earn PE credits, learn cursive, and carry epinephrine devices in Tallahassee.
The laws also ease teacher re-entry but may weaken unions as districts can reassign teachers from struggling schools.
Leon County Schools announced that all high school tracks and athletic fields, including those at Leon High School and Chiles High School, were closed to public use for the foreseeable future beginning June 20, 2026 because of safety and maintenance concerns.
Leon County Schools earned a B grade from the state report card released on July 1, 2026.
Superintendent Rocky Hanna said eight schools improved their ratings, including Sealey Elementary and Fairview Middle, which jumped from a C to an A (reflecting steady progress across the district).
Florida State University's Jim Moran Institute celebrated the graduation of its Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans and Families, held June 8-12 in Tallahassee.
The week-long program taught veterans, military spouses & family members key business skills for starting and growing ventures.
A new sidewalk is nearing completion on North Monroe between Lakeshore Drive and John Knox Road today, part of safety and aesthetic upgrades from the North Monroe Gateway Project; grant funding from FDOT supports this effort to boost pedestrian safety in the busy corridor.
At the Capital City Country Club during a June NEBA luncheon, mayoral hopefuls took a straw poll that showed Daryl Parks leading with 51% of votes as Loranne Ausley finished second with 27% while Jeremy Matlow ended third; the candidates discussed economic growth and civic leadership.
State revenue collections for May beat forecasts with net revenue reaching $4.66 billion, driven by a $231.8 million surplus from higher sales tax and investment earnings, while corporate taxes came in slightly lower; a report from the Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research showed a 5 percent rise over the revised January forecast.
Florida's AIDS Drug Assistance Program returns to full eligibility today as Governor DeSantis signs the state budget to restore access for those living with HIV— the move adds $75 million in funding while insurance premium help remains cut.
FAMU men's basketball coach Charlie Ward signed nine new players from high schools, junior colleges and transfers to join returner Antonio Baker Jr. for the upcoming season (the team finished 14 to 17 last season and reached the SWAC tournament semifinals).
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.
Godby Class of 1986 Reunion
6 p.m. — AC Hotel Tallahassee Universities at the Capitol — $100 per person — Celebrate the 80s with food, drinks, and dancing at an unforgettable reunion night.
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