Good morning, Tallahassee.

Florida lawmakers passed a new law that increases penalties for swatting hoaxes to include up to 15 years in prison for those whose false 911 calls cause injury or death—repeat offenders also must pay restitution, officials said.

Southern Shakespeare Company announced it will move its Shakespeare in the Park Festival from May to February because winter nights are more comfortable and reliable.

The festival is set for Feb 19–22 in Cascades Park and will include free performances for families.

Leon County Schools may pilot a new Campus Guardian Angel program — using drones to provide immediate situational awareness during school threats.

The pilot is backed by $557,000 in state funding — and a full system could cost over $1 million if expanded.

Innovation Academy of Excellence, Florida’s first AI middle school, will open Aug.

11 at Tallahassee State College—serving grades 6-8 with 120 students and up to eight teachers while using AI to help teachers plan lessons and guide students toward high school credit courses by eighth grade.

Florida State University has named Tim Weisheyer to the Board of Trustees after Gov. Ron DeSantis chose him on July 11.

His term starts on Aug. 30 pending Florida Senate confirmation (he brings decades of experience in education and business).

City Commissioner Matlow plans to address the fire services fee issues by proposing a moratorium on fees for churches, calling a special meeting, and ordering an audit to review fee collections—County Commissioner Caban questioned his earlier support for the fee increase, saying it hurts residents by driving up housing costs and may have political motives.

A WalletHub study ranked Florida among the worst states for healthcare by scoring it 48.7 out of 100 in cost, access and outcomes.

Experts said low scores came from Medicare cuts, high medication prices and workforce shortages — issues that challenge care as the state’s population grows.

Deion Sanders, the former FSU All-American and current Colorado football coach, underwent bladder cancer surgery on July 28 and reported no traces of cancer after the procedure while he planned to continue coaching this season.

Former teammates and coaches praised his strength and resilience—adding that a documentary about his life will be released in 2026.

Florida A&M will begin preseason football training camp on August 1—players will compete for starting spots at key positions like quarterback, receiver, defensive end, and cornerback.

The Rattlers will add transfers and new talent ahead of their season opener against Howard on Aug. 30 at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium.

Forever Grads 2025 Graduation Party

10 PM – 2 AM — Potbelly's — Free entry for graduates — Celebrate your achievements and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at the ultimate graduation party.

Back to School: Fuel the Future

10 AM – 1 PM — Florida Blue Center - Tallahassee — Free school supplies — A family-friendly event with fun activities and resources to kickstart an academic year.

Parrothead Phrenzy

7-10 p.m. — The Moon — $47 — Enjoy a concert featuring Jimmy Parrish & the Waves in support of Alzheimer's Project.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping Certification Training

8 AM – 12 PM — UF/IFAS Leon County Extension — Registration required — Complete your training to become a certified Florida-Friendly Landscape Professional.