Good morning, Tallahassee.

Seminole Tribe artist Erica Deitz saw her 24-by-16-foot acrylic painting Osceola’s Vision in full scale at an event hosted by FSU’s Native American and Indigenous Studies Center at the FSU Student Union on Friday.

She said the mural represents Osceola’s vision for her people’s freedom and prosperity and is meant to encourage students to learn about the Seminole Tribe and the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum.

FPL rejected a request to revisit a counter proposal that would lower future rate hikes—FPL argued that settlements without the utility are not legally valid while a two-week hearing on its current settlement begins Oct.

6.

Florida State University earned its highest national ranking ever in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings by placing 51 overall and 21 among public universities—while a Niche report ranked it 11 among public schools, noting a slight drop from last year; more than 86,000 students applied for the fall 2025 semester. FSU President Richard McCullough said the results show the strength of its academic programs and campus life.

A new Florida law will make gift card theft and fraud specific crimes starting Wednesday with penalties of up to five years in prison—officials say it will protect shoppers and businesses—and targets rising scams amid holiday sales.

Starting October 1, Florida will enforce almost 30 new laws, including ending the business rent tax that will save businesses nearly $1.15 billion and return $3 billion to local companies.

The laws also raise punishments for crimes such as fleeing officers—hit-and-run and impersonating law enforcement—and change how courts treat mentally ill people while requiring landlords to share flood risk details with renters.

Leon County Government announced that former County Commissioner Bruce J.

Host died Friday morning. He served District 4 from 1992 to 2000 and led key community projects—including creating the Bruce J. Host Northeast Branch Library and preserving the Bradfordville School House.

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Craig Gaines, who died nearly two weeks ago from medical complications after a leg fracture injury at a FAMU away game, was laid to rest Monday morning at Restoration Place Church in Tallahassee with a Celebration of Life held at 10 a.m.—state troopers from Alabama, Mississippi and other states attended along with a Tallahassee Fire Department ladder truck carrying an American flag in tribute.

Florida State coach Mike Norvell said both running back Roydell Williams and safety Ashlynd Barker are questionable for the Miami game at Doak Campbell Stadium—Williams will return in his first game since Week 1 while Barker’s condition will be confirmed over the weekend.

After a double overtime loss to Virginia on Friday, defensive coordinator Tony White said FSU's defense did not finish plays and will focus on better tackling on third and fourth downs as the team prepares to face Miami on Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium—TV on ABC.

The Seminoles aim to rebound in this key rivalry game.

Florida State coach Mike Norvell said at a news conference in Tallahassee on Sept.

29 that the rivalry with the Miami Hurricanes is a blessing for his team — he expects the matchup to bring fresh energy and challenge to the season.

This Friday at 7 p.m., the Chiles High Timberwolves will face the Florida High Seminoles in Tallahassee’s live local football game on CW channel 24.1 — the match is part of the Barineau Heating & Air FNR series presented by Shore Up Foundation Repair.

On September 26, the Lincoln Trojans (3-2) defeated the Leon Lions (2-3) 70-0 at Gene Cox Stadium with strong play in a dominating game.

Taylor Jacobs Jr. threw for 253 yards and four touchdowns while Maliek Denmark added two receiving touchdowns and one interception.

Awakening Events: Christian Music Concerts

7-11 p.m. — Donald L. Tucker Civic Center — Ticketed event — Experience uplifting performances at this exciting evening of Christian music.

Michael Miller Band Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Bannerman Crossings Shopping Center — Ticket info not specified — Experience the soulful sounds of country music from the Michael Miller Band.

Tally Tango Ultra-Endurance Bikepacking Adventure

11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. — 3430 Weems Rd, Tallahassee, FL — Route information purchase required — Experience Florida's first ultra-endurance bikepacking routes through scenic terrains.

Moon Over Maclay Concert

10 p.m. — Florida State University — Enjoy live music under the full moon rising over Lake Hall.

Bryce Mauldin Concert

9 PM - 1 AM — Bowden's — Tickets available — Experience Bryce Mauldin's country vibes live in Tallahassee.

GWTC Pine Run 20K Trail Race

7:30-10:30 a.m. — Tall Timbers — $25-$40 — Experience a challenging trail run through beautiful Florida pine forests with rucking options available.

Florida Music Showcase: Danitza & Friends

7:30-10:30 p.m. — 926 Bar & Grill — $ — Enjoy a lively music showcase featuring local bands from Florida.

Trevor Wallace Performance

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Moon — $44 and up — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Trevor Wallace at a popular local venue.

The Thing With Feathers Concert

7-9 p.m. — 926 Bar & Grill — Check for ticket details — Enjoy an evening with the alt-rock and pop sounds of Nashville’s own The Thing With Feathers.

BABE HAVEN Live in Tallahassee

7:30-9:30 p.m. — 926 Bar & Grill — Ticket prices tba — Experience Boone NC’s BABE HAVEN performing tracks from their latest album 'Nuisance' along with local bands.