Good morning, Tallahassee.

Community members, activists & a FAMU student said on Dec.

10 they opposed the city commission’s approval to sell the Capitol City Country Club, which includes graves of enslaved individuals. They argue the decision disregards the need to honor local history.

Tallahassee retailers see increased business as shoppers crowd local stores for year-end deals; some host customer appreciation events with complimentary wine and snacks—while one import shop faces tariff challenges.

A new mural now adorns the side of the Tallahassee Branch NAACP building in historic Frenchtown, honoring local civil rights figures and key milestones from seven decades of community history.

Local artist Michael Crowne led the project, which was unveiled on Dec. 13 — following nearly two years of planning.

FAMU alum Gregory Anderson wrote the script for 'Deck the Hallways' (a Lifetime film tribute to his late father, math professor Osiefield Anderson) before his passing in August; the film now streams through the holidays.

Florida State University College of Music is launching a new Community Music degree that teaches music analysis, arts administration, and entrepreneurship to connect students with local groups (video submissions and interviews replace auditions).

Applications are due by February 1.

Tallahassee Classical School grew its enrollment by 10% this school year under a new dual leadership team, and it now accepts the CLT for university admissions and scholarships as supported by recent Florida legislation.

Florida State University promoted Jenn Garye to Assistant Vice President for Research Business Strategy and Operations as it expands research operations.

With nearly 20 years at the university (recognized with the 2019 Gabor Award), she will lead administrative, fiscal and operational improvements across campus.

Whittnie Merlau of Fort Braden Elementary School was named Teacher of the Month by WCTV and Addition Financial on Dec.

15. Her award — recognizing outstanding classroom contributions — celebrates local excellence in education.

Local grape growers are advised to delay pruning muscadine vines until mid-February to avoid frost damage, as cooler autumn temperatures help the vines enter winter dormancy and protect next year's buds (Florida A&M's Frank Humphries explained).

Early winter work should focus on tool care and light cleanup to ready the vineyard.

Griffin Middle School held an assembly on Dec.

15 for 70 students to learn about gun violence prevention. Local law enforcement, school officials and community leaders offered resources and urged the students to make positive choices following recent weapon confiscations.

Leon County officials announced that Old Bainbridge Road will have segmented closures from Dec.

15 until May for a water main replacement project, with a reopening from Dec. 24 through Jan. 4. Drivers detour: southbound via High Road and Tharpe Street and northbound via Tharpe Street and High Road.

At a state workshop held Friday, Florida health officials reviewed a proposal to end school mandates for four vaccines including hib, chickenpox, pneumococcal and hepatitis B, while doctors warned that dropping requirements could lower vaccination rates & increase serious infections.

FAMU men's basketball played against Albany State on Monday, Dec.

15 at the Al Lawson Center. The team offered free entry to educators with valid IDs and to fans who donated to the Christmas drive throughout December & marked its first home game in over a month.

Coach Quinn Gray announced his departure from Albany State on Dec.

15 after a 12-2 season and a national title, and he is a leading candidate to fill the vacancy at FAMU as the Rattlers aim to rebuild after a 5-7 season.

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.

December VG League Cup

Tournament — All Day — Gamescape — Entry Fee Required — Join the excitement of the December VG League Cup tournament.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.