Daily
Tallahassee
Friday, December 12th, 2025
Good morning, Tallahassee. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Tallahassee remembers Chuck Goodheart—a trail pioneer who dedicated 30 years to creating biking, hiking and equestrian trails—who died in a crash near Lake Jackson on Nov. 29 that injured his daughter, as a memorial at Piney Z is planned. Tallahassee Democrat
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled his $117.3 billion state budget proposal that allocates over $30 billion for schools and nearly $300 more per student; he also calls for $1.5 billion to boost teacher pay, though some critics say the plan falls short. Lawmakers will review it soon. WCTV
- ➤ The FAMU/FSU College of Engineering rebranded its long-standing program as Mechanical and Aerospace to strengthen ties with military+private aerospace partners. The change is expected to spur research, innovation, and job opportunities for students and the region. WFSU Public Media
- ➤ FSU’s Institute for Governance and Civics released a survey showing 20% of young adults believe violence is justified to stop harmful speech — a result that highlights a generational gap amid growing concerns over free expression in Tallahassee. WFSU Public Media
- ➤ FSU Vice President for Research Stacey S. Patterson has been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) for driving innovation and bridging academia with practical solutions. She oversees a $487 million research operation and her honor will be celebrated at the NAI 15th Annual Conference in June. Florida State University
- ➤ At a Dec. 9 meeting, the Leon County School Board tasked its Student District Advisory Council to ask peers why attendance is low and gather ideas to improve it. The board has previously sought student input on other policy challenges. WFSU Public Media
- ➤ FSU will honor 2,982 fall graduates today at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Ceremonies begin with a doctoral hooding at 9 a.m. and include bachelor's, master's and specialist presentations at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., spotlighting alumni achievements & career plans in research, public health, nursing, finance and theatre. Florida State University
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Some local restaurants are emphasizing stylish decor and mood lighting to create an upscale dining feel even though the food remains similar to that in simpler eateries. Experts note that overpaying for ambiance may impact budgets, especially for local students and regular diners. FSU News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Thomas County Central's undefeated team will host Roswell in the state semifinal on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the Jackets' Nest, with a win giving them a chance to play for a state title next week. WCTV
- ➤ Thomas County Central beat Roswell 49-28 to secure a trip to the 5A state title game. The Jackets will face Gainesville on Dec. 17 (7:30 p.m.) in Atlanta. WCTV
- ➤ Florida State football announced on Dec. 11 that Nick Williams has been hired as the new edge coach and pass rush specialist, bringing experience from Syracuse, Colorado, Texas A&M, and Georgia to help draw top talent. The South Georgia native expressed excitement about returning to a program he always admired. Tallahassee Democrat
- ➤ Junior forward Jordynn Dudley of Florida State was named as one of three finalists for the Hermann Trophy on Wednesday by United Soccer Coaches and the Missouri Athletic Club. She helped lead her team to win their fifth national championship and is the first finalist in school history since 2023. WCTV
- ➤ FAMU running back Jamal Hailey announced on Dec. 10 that he will enter the NCAA Transfer Portal after coaching changes led to the firing of head coach James Colzie III; he will have from Jan. 2 to Jan. 16 to explore new opportunities. Tallahassee Democrat
- ➤ On Wednesday, Dec. 10, Tallahassee State College’s men’s basketball team, ranked 17th nationally, beat Pasco-Hernando 116-41 while the women won 79-50 over Albany Tech in a home game. WCTV
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Tallahassee Ultra Distance Classic
12-10 p.m. — Wakulla Springs State Park — Registration required — Experience a scenic road race in the heart of Florida's nature.
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Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Florida State Seminoles Women's Basketball
6-7:30 p.m. — Donald L. Tucker Civic Center — Cost info not provided — Experience collegiate women's basketball as Virginia Tech faces Florida State.
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December VG League Cup
Tournament — All Day — Gamescape — Entry Fee Required — Join the excitement of the December VG League Cup tournament.
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Christmas at the Farm 2025
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Redemptive Love Farm — $10-$15 admission — Celebrate Christmas with farm animals, festive activities, and Santa in a magical setting.
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A Tribute to Soul Legends
7-9:30 p.m. — Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices not listed — Experience an unforgettable evening honoring the soulful music of Johnnie Taylor, Bobby Womack, and Tyrone Davis.
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New Year's Eve Celebration at Cascades
7-10 p.m. — Adderley Amphitheater — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with live music, food trucks, and fireworks at Cascades Park.
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Anniversary Weekend Celebration
3-10 p.m. — The Hub at Feather Oaks — Free entry — Enjoy live music and delicious food from local food trucks during this festive anniversary weekend.
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Plies Live
10:00 – 11:30 PM — The Moon — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of Plies in an intimate setting for an unforgettable night.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage.
~ Anais Nin
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