Good morning, Tallahassee.

Henry Wilson was sentenced on August 8 to 12 years in prison and 3 years probation after being found guilty of vehicular homicide for a 2020 accident on West Tennessee Street—he drove over 90 mph, swerved to avoid another vehicle, hit the curb, and struck a pedestrian while a baby in a stroller was injured.

The Florida Authors and Publishers Association held its President's Book Awards on Aug.

5 in Orlando — where four Tallahassee authors won Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Experts chose winners to honor excellence in publishing — and local bookstores now offer these titles.

Thousands of students returned to Leon County Schools on Aug.

11 to start the new year at Canopy Oaks Elementary where the school improved from a C to a B rating + principal Clayton Cloud said teachers are focusing on extra help for every student. Parents and staff expressed excitement about the 2025-26 year + efforts to personalize learning for children in Tallahassee.

A Florida law effective July 1 now prevents local governments from banning synthetic turf on single-family properties—leading more homeowners to choose man-made surfaces over natural lawns.

UF researchers found that artificial turf can reach about 174°F—while natural grass stays around 102°F—and they warn that higher temperatures may create safety risks in residential areas.

Leon County high school boys golfers are set to return for the 2025 to 2026 season as Lincoln had five qualifiers last year with Bryce Matthews, Chase Fleischer and William Young coming back while Chiles will also see Alex Parker compete; Florida High rising junior Peyton Johnson will lead the girls team after her state appearance last season and the Maclay girls won City Championship by 18 strokes — boosting local hopes for a strong fall season.

FAMU men’s basketball secured four‐star recruit Jayden ‘JJ’ Joseph from Gillion Academy in Virginia after he chose FAMU over offers from larger programs—new coach Charlie Ward will debut on November 3 as he builds the team’s 2026 class while the school pursues another top prospect.

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.

Ronnie Randolph with Walter Kelleher

6-10 p.m. — Hobbit American Grill - East — Free entry — Enjoy the duo's encore performance featuring local music talent in Tallahassee.

Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra Live

7:30 PM — Ruby Diamond Concert Hall — Tickets on sale starting July 21 — Experience a night of jazz and entertainment with Jeff Goldblum and his renowned orchestra.

OLLI at FSU Fall 2025 Showcase

1-3 p.m. — Augustus B Turnbull Conference Center — Free entry — Explore exciting lifelong learning opportunities for adults 50+ at the Fall Showcase.