Good morning, Tallahassee.

At the Kearney Center on the longest night of the year, a memorial service was held to honor neighbors who lost their lives while living without shelter, showing the cold weather dangers and the need for community care.

Florida held a Powerball drawing on Dec.

22 at its Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, offering a $1.6 billion jackpot after no one won the $1.5 billion prize on Dec. 20. Two more drawings are scheduled before Dec. 25 — five Publix outlets have sold winning tickets since 2013.

Bainbridge High Anchor Club donated over 150 gifts to Friendship House in one of its biggest projects of the year — the donations will support local families during the holiday season.

Santa and his elves brought holiday cheer to Dorothy B.

Oven Park Monday evening as visitors enjoyed Elf Night, and police urged drivers to avoid phone use & drive safely amid expected traffic delays.

Piggly Wiggly Food For Less opened its new store at 102 East 1st Ave in Havana Monday, Dec.

22 at 10 a.m. The grocery shop uses a cost plus pricing model (10% surcharge) so shoppers can save with clear, affordable prices.

Florida State and Florida A&M reported higher early applications for fall 2026.

FSU received 33,700 applications and 12,900 acceptances, while FAMU saw 12,930 submissions with 2,967 admissions; FSU will release more decisions Feb. 12 & FAMU on March 12.

Kindergarteners at John G.

Riley Elementary School were surprised with presents days before Christmas, filling their classroom with cheer and holiday spirit.

Florida State University’s College of Business will be renamed the Herbert Wertheim College of Business after Dr. Herbert Wertheim, founder of Brain Power Incorporated, pledged a $65 million donation that will also fund the new Herbert Wertheim Center for Business Excellence.

Florida State University trustees have voted to rename the business school and its new center after Herbert Wertheim following his $65 million pledge.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for Jan. 6 and discussions continue on acquiring Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare property to support FSU Health.

Tallahassee honors John Gilmore Riley, a pioneering educator and civic leader who began teaching without formal schooling, as his legacy continues to inspire local educational initiatives.

Tallahassee offices will be closed Dec.

25-26 for Christmas and waste collection, transit & animal services will have new schedules; Leon County offices and libraries will also close on key holiday dates while parks stay open for public use. Residents should check online for full details.

FSU football wide receiver Elijah Moore entered the transfer portal on Monday — after two seasons in Tallahassee he recorded 69 yards in 14 games — and he will have three years of eligibility left.

Florida State men's basketball won against Jacksonville 87-63 at Donald L.

Tucker Center Monday night with four starters scoring in double figures. The Seminoles now prepare to face North Carolina on Dec. 30 and Duke on Jan. 3 in ACC play.

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.