Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.17.25

Good Wednesday morning. Let’s start with two quick notes:

When good things happen to good people: Congrats to Albie Kaminsky, who was recently elevated to vice president of Government Affairs for Florida at Charter Communications. “The future of connectivity is full of opportunity, and I’m grateful for an incredible team that is committed to serving communities across Florida. Excited for the work ahead as we continue building a stronger, more connected future,” he said on social media. Kaminsky has been in Charter’s government affairs division since 2018. He previously served two years as a top staffer to then-Rep. Jim Boyd, who is in line to become Senate President in November 2026.

Berny Jacques named Of Counsel at HBS Tampa office — Law firm Hall Booth Smith is welcoming Rep. Jacques as Of Counsel at its Tampa office. Jacques, a Stetson Law alum, worked as a prosecutor and in private legal practice before his 2022 Election to represent Pinellas-based HD 59. “We’re excited to welcome Berny to our Tampa team,” said Ryan Rivas, managing partner of HBS’ Tampa office. “His trial experience and community leadership will be a great asset as he focuses on defending our state and nationwide clients.” HBS said Jacques will focus his practice on defending hospitals, physicians, and other health care providers in medical malpractice claims.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@JimRosicaFL: In short order, Attorney General (Pam) Bondi has garnered blowback from Brit Hume, Erick Erickson and now Matt Walsh over her free speech comments after Charlie Kirk’s death. Walsh’s reaction is particularly strong.

—@MarcACaputo: Trolls, partisans & bullshit artists attacked @axios^[1] for using anonymous sources Sat in reporting authorities believed this was (Tyler) Robinson’s alleged motive: he had a transgender lover & thought Kirk was a transphobe. Our reporting was right. Our critics weren’t

—@ChairmanGruters: The truth about Charlie Kirk’s killer was just made crystal clear by the indictment: This was a political assassination of a conservative by a radicalized leftist. Any suggestions otherwise are nothing but completely shameful attempts to ignore the obvious.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

—@WiltonSimpsonFL: Thank you @realDonaldTrump^[2] and @RobertKennedyJr^[3] for the MAHA agriculture recommendations. These recommendations are common-sense measures that protect our health and our food supply. I have long advocated for returning whole milk to our school lunch program. Let’s give our kids healthy milk that also tastes good!

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Black Rabbit’ with Jude Law and Jason Bateman premieres on Netflix — 1; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 1; ’Tulsa King’ season three premieres — 4; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 9; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 13; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 16; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 19; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 19; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 23; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 28; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 33; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 34; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 39; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 40; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 48; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 60; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 65; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 70; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 72; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 77; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 77; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 83; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 86; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 91; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 93; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 99; Legislative Session begins — 118; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 118; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 142; last day of the Regular Session — 177; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 189; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 190; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 201; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 210; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 215; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 219; F1 Miami begins — 226; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 247; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 258; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 264; State Qualifying Period ends — 268; FIFA World Cup begins — 267; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 290; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 295; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 300; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 302; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 306; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 323; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 325; Primary Election Day 2026 — 335; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 359; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 363; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 367; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 372; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 379; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 383; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 402; 2026 General Election —412; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 457; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 457; Tampa Mayoral Election — 531; Jacksonville First Election — 552; Jacksonville General Election — 608; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 626; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 688; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 744; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 821; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1031; U.S. Presidential Election — 1147; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1547; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2278.

— TOP STORY —

“State agencies request nearly $500M for land conservation but face headwinds^[4]” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Florida’s top environmental and agricultural agencies are collectively seeking nearly half a billion dollars for land conservation in their new budget proposals, setting up a potential legislative battle over the state’s environmental spending priorities.

The requests, submitted for the 2026-27 fiscal year, include significant funding for two distinct but popular programs. The Department of Environmental Protection is asking for $100 million in recurring funds for its flagship Florida Forever land acquisition program, plus an additional $30 million for local parks.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, led by Commissioner Wilton Simpson, is requesting $150 million for its Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, which focuses on purchasing conservation easements to prevent development on working farms and ranches.

Simpson argued that protecting these lands is crucial for preserving wildlife habitats and sustaining the state’s agricultural industry. “Maintaining Florida’s agricultural land base is among the most critical issues within the state,” he wrote in his budget request.

However, the ambitious proposals face a challenging political reality. Last year, the Legislature dramatically slashed DeSantis’ $100 million request for Florida Forever to just $18 million. With House budget chief Lawrence McClure already signaling a push to “trim the state budget” this upcoming Session, a similar fight is expected.

The proposals now head to DeSantis, who must release his full budget recommendation at least 30 days before the Legislative Session begins on Jan. 13. Environmental advocates will be watching closely, arguing that both land acquisition and easements are vital to protecting Florida’s future.

— STATEWIDE —

Happening today — State Rep. Ryan Chamberlin will hold a news conference via Zoom to unveil a slate of ideas on how to end property taxes in the state of Florida: 1:30 p.m. ET, Zoom link here.^[5]

“Florida Pharmacy Board jumps into vaccine debate” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — Florida’s Board of Pharmacy is set to discuss COVID-19 vaccine administration and rules for other immunizations, signaling a move into the state’s fierce debate over vaccine mandates. This follows DeSantis and Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo’s push to eliminate all vaccine requirements, including those for schoolchildren. The Board, which operates under Ladapo’s Department of Health, will meet virtually to consider changes that could align with the administration’s anti-mandate stance. While physician groups have requested meetings on proposed rule changes, the state has yet to confirm if public input will be heard. The Board’s discussion marks a significant step in the administration’s effort to reshape public health policy through regulatory channels.^[6]

—“COVID-19 vaccine accessibility frustrates Floridians as federal guidance comes up for debate” via Anne Geggis of The Palm Beach Post^[7]

“New ‘Hope’ charter expansions are ‘likely’ to cost school districts, state officials say” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Florida’s Board of Education is finalizing a rule forcing school districts to cede unused public school space to “Schools of Hope” charter schools. This major expansion of school choice mandates that districts not only provide buildings but also cover services like custodial, security, and transportation at no cost to the charters. The rule allows these schools to open in the “nearest suitable” facility, even overriding local zoning. While the state acknowledges this will create significant new costs for districts, it has not provided a financial estimate. Districts have little power to refuse these “co-locations,” which could begin in Fall 2026, adding immense financial pressure on traditional public schools.^[8]

“Florida’s KidCare expansion in limbo as number of uninsured children jumps 20%” via Christopher O’Donnell of the Tampa Bay Times — A state plan to expand subsidized health insurance for kids has remained in limbo for almost two years despite rising demand for coverage as more Florida children lose health insurance. About 8.5% of Florida children — roughly 403,000 kids — had no health coverage last year, according to an analysis of census data from Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families. That’s a 20% spike from 2022. The study covers the two years after the state resumed Medicaid eligibility checks for the first time since the pandemic. During that span, more than 500,000 children were dropped from the federal program, according to the report.^[9]

“Jessica Baker refiles ‘Officer Jason Raynor Act,’ confident bill will see less friction in 2026” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bill meant to eliminate any question about whether someone can violently resist arrest is back for 2026 after failing inches from the finish line last Session, and its sponsor is confident it will see far less friction this time. Jacksonville Republican Rep. Baker has refiled the measure (HB 17), which cleared both chambers of the Legislature earlier this year before dying due to disagreements over arguably negligible language differences and procedural rules that limited the number of times it could cross the rotunda. If passed, the bill would mandate life sentences without parole for defendants convicted of manslaughter in the death of a police officer.^[10]

“Senate sets Committee schedules^[11]” via the News Service of Florida — The Florida Senate is ramping up for the 2026 Legislative Session, announcing a tentative schedule for interim Committee meetings in October. Lawmakers are slated to convene on Oct. 7-8 and Oct. 14-16 to begin work ahead of the formal Session. The schedule also includes a swearing-in ceremony for newly elected Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis on Oct. 7 and time for joint House and Senate Committee meetings. This early work will continue with additional Committee weeks scheduled for November and December. All these preparations lead up to the official start of the 2026 Legislative Session, which is set to begin on Jan. 13.

— REQUIEM —

“Charlie Kirk shooting suspect charged with murder in Utah” via Madlin Mekelburg, Bob Van Voris, and Myles Miller of Bloomberg — Utah prosecutors have charged Robinson with first-degree aggravated murder in the assassination of conservative leader Kirk, and they will seek the death penalty. Robinson, 22, also faces charges including obstruction of justice and witness tampering. The case has amplified concerns about political violence, with President Donald Trump blaming the left for inciting hatred. According to court documents, Robinson’s roommate revealed a note stating, “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.” When asked why, Robinson allegedly replied, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out.” The killing, which Utah’s Governor called a “political assassination,” has deeply shaken the nation.^[12]

“Rick Scott, Jimmy Patronis team up on Kirk Day of Remembrance” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — In the wake of the assassination of conservative leader Kirk, two of Florida’s leading conservatives, U.S. Sen. Scott and U.S. Rep. Patronis, are pushing to establish a National Day of Remembrance in his honor. They propose Oct. 14, what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday, as a day to pray and celebrate his impact. Scott remembered his friend as a “magnetic leader” lost to an “evil act of political violence,” while Patronis lauded him as a “fearless defender of faith, freedom, and the principles that make America great.” The day is intended to carry his legacy forward and inspire future generations to lead with courage and speak boldly for freedom.^[13]

“Byron Donalds worries for his own safety after Kirk assassination” via Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Donalds is concerned for his own safety in the wake of last week’s assassination of conservative thought leader Kirk. “My wife is very concerned; my kids are concerned. Everybody is shaking in this moment. And we can’t be the more perfect union, we can’t be the United States of America, if elected officials and other prominent people in our society now feel threatened,” the Republican gubernatorial candidate said on “Varney and Co.” “Now they have to hire up these massive security apparatuses just so they can continue to exercise their free speech in the United States. We need to change. It’s wrong. We cannot continue like this.” Donalds blamed the “radical left” for coarsening discourse.^[14]

“How Kirk helped shape the political futures of Florida conservatives” via Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times — The assassination of conservative leader Kirk has ignited a fierce debate over speech and consequences. Supporters are hailing him as a “free speech martyr,” with allies like U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna vowing to continue his work and lobbying for a statue in his honor. Simultaneously, individuals celebrating his death online are facing severe professional repercussions, including being fired. Conservatives defend these terminations not as “cancel culture” but as “consequence culture,” arguing that celebrating political violence is a justifiable reason for dismissal. The fallout is especially intense in Florida, where Kirk had deep political ties, with state agencies and universities actively investigating and reprimanding employees for their online comments.^[15]

Tweet, tweet:

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Pam Bondi clarifies: ‘Hate speech’ won’t be prosecuted” via Marc Caputo of Axios — Attorney General Bondi says her office is not prosecuting or investigating anyone for alleged hate speech, only for speech that she says unlawfully incites violence. Bondi sought to clarify her comments during a Monday podcast in which she said the Justice Department would “absolutely target you, go after you, if you are targeting anyone with hate speech.” Her remarks drew criticism from across the political spectrum — including from some fellow MAGA Republicans, who as a group has historically been sensitive to curbs on free speech.^[16]

“Donald Trump adds Venezuela to drug-transit list, decertifies Colombia as drug-fighting ally” via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — The Trump administration has added Venezuela to its annual list of major drug-transit and production countries and, for the first time since 1996, decertified Colombia as a U.S. ally in the fight against narcotics. The Presidential Determination for fiscal year 2026, issued by the Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, accuses Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of heading a global trafficking ring. “In Venezuela, the criminal regime of indicted drug trafficker Nicolás Maduro leads one of the largest cocaine trafficking networks in the world, and the United States will continue to seek to bring Maduro and other members of his complicit regime to justice for their crimes,” the document says. “We will also target Venezuelan foreign terrorist organizations such as Tren de Aragua and purge them from our country.”^[17]

“FBI director blames Alex Acosta for the ‘original sin’ in prosecuting Jeffrey Epstein” via Emily Goodin of the Miami Herald — FBI director Kash Patel on Tuesday blamed Acosta for mistakes in the prosecution of Epstein, claiming the former U.S. attorney cast the “original sin” in the case. Acosta, while U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Florida, signed off on the 2008 non-prosecutorial agreement that was later described as a “sweetheart deal,” allowing Epstein to plead guilty to a lesser charge and obtain work-release from his county jail sentence. “The original sin in the Epstein case was the way it was initially brought by Mr. Acosta,” Patel told the Senate Judiciary Committee. Patel claimed Acosta, who went on to become Labor Secretary in Trump’s first term, hamstrung further investigation and prosecution efforts.^[18]

“Trump announces Republican Midterm convention” via Avery Lotz of Axios — President Trump on Tuesday announced that the Republican Party will host a convention ahead of the 2026 Midterms — an event Axios previously reported senior Democratic officials are also weighing putting on their party’s calendar. The conventions typically happen every four years to formally nominate presidential candidates, but the possibility of dueling Midterm gatherings demonstrates the weight both parties are placing on 2026, which could determine whether Trump retains his GOP trifecta in D.C. Just after Axios reported in August that Ken Martin, the Democratic National Committee Chair, had been quietly pushing the idea of a smaller national convention ahead of the 2026 Election, Trump floated doing the same on Truth Social the next day.^[19]

“House GOP releases stopgap bill to fund government through Nov. 20” via Kate Santaliz and Stephen Neukam of Axios — House Republican leaders released the text of a 91-page stopgap measure Tuesday to keep the government funded through Nov. 20 and provide additional resources for lawmaker security. It’s the opening salvo in what could be a drawn-out battle to avoid a shutdown in two weeks. Republican leaders in the House opted to press forward without backing from their Democratic colleagues, meaning Speaker Mike Johnson has very little wiggle room for defections. And the measure will need 60 votes in the Senate, meaning it will definitely need Democratic backers there — a tall order given the demands Democrats have outlined and the fast-approaching Sept. 30 deadline.^[20]

— ELECTIONS —

“Medicaid campaign fighting new ballot initiative law retracts third preliminary injunction request” via Arek Sarkissian of POLITICO — The committee behind Florida’s Medicaid expansion ballot initiative has withdrawn its request for a third preliminary injunction against the state’s tough new petition-gathering laws. The group, Florida Decides Healthcare, had sued Secretary of State Cord Byrd over restrictions signed by DeSantis, arguing they were unconstitutional. While a federal judge initially halted parts of the law, an appeals court reversed one of those decisions. The committee has now rescinded its latest motion, which targeted rising signature verification costs imposed by County Supervisors. Citing “changing circumstances,” the group stated emergency relief was no longer necessary, signaling a strategic shift in its legal battle to place Medicaid expansion on the 2026 ballot.^[21]

“Senate leadership endorses Rep. James Buchanan for his District 22 Senate run” via Amber Jo Cooper of Florida’s Voice — State Rep. Buchanan has secured a powerful endorsement from Florida Senate leadership for his 2026 bid for the Senate District 22 seat. In a joint statement, Senate President Ben Albritton and other leaders praised Buchanan as a family man committed to community safety, a strong economy and being a “consistent voice for the most vulnerable Floridians.” Buchanan, a Republican real estate agent from Sarasota County, expressed his honor at receiving their trust. He is currently the sole candidate for the seat being vacated by term-limited Sen. Joe Gruters, who has also endorsed him. The district includes Sarasota County and a portion of Manatee County, setting Buchanan on a clear path for the nomination.^[22]

“Tracy Caruso drops out of HD 87 race, won’t succeed husband” via Michael Costeines of The Floridian — Tracy Caruso is taking her name out of consideration for House District 87, she announced this week. Caruso was looking to replace her husband, Mike Caruso, in a to-be-determined HD 87 Special Election. “When Mike was first elected, I chose to live in Tallahassee with him — a choice many spouses don’t make,” Tracy said in a statement to Florida Jolt. “People often asked why I stayed there. The simple answer is that we are married, and I want to live where my husband lives. Seven years later, that feeling hasn’t changed.” DeSantis appointed Mike Caruso to serve as the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller in August. The Governor also appointed Tracy Caruso to the Palm Beach State College District Board of Trustees in July.^[23]

Happening tonight:

and

Happening tomorrow:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Palmetto Bay censures Council member Steve Cody, who refuses to resign after Kirk post; calls on Ron DeSantis, AG to investigate” via Amber Jo Cooper of Florida’s Voice — The Palmetto Bay Village Council has censured Council member Cody, who refuses to resign following a controversial Facebook post in the wake of Kirk’s murder. The Council is calling on the Governor and Attorney General to investigate, hoping to find cause to remove him from office. Mayor Karen Cunningham introduced a resolution to censure Cody and request his resignation over a Facebook post in which he wrote: “Charlie Kirk is a fitting sacrifice to our Lords: Smith & Wesson. Hallowed be their names.” The Board voted 4-1 and amended the resolution after a motion by the Vice Mayor Mark Merwitzer. Merwitzer’s amendment requests that the Governor and the attorney general “open up an investigation into his official conduct for malfeasance, misfeasance, neglect of duty or incompetence, or any other statutory reason that would give the Governor good cause to remove him.”^[24]

“Why Palm Beach County rejected a plan to lower the proposed tax rate” via Mike Diamond of the Palm Beach Post — Palm Beach County Commissioners have rejected a plan offered by Commissioner Sara Baxter to lower the proposed county tax rate by 6%. Instead, the Commission voted 5-2 to keep the rate at its current level of 4.5000 during the first public hearing on the 2026 fiscal year budget. Baxter urged her colleagues to adopt the “rollback rate” of 4.2413, which would generate the exact amount of money as last year, even though it is a lower tax rate. New construction worth $3.5 billion is expected to create massive amounts of additional tax revenue for the county. Keeping the rate at 4.5000 will generate an extra $89 million.^[25]

“Delray Beach leaders seek new ways to honor LGBTQ+ community after Pride crosswalk covered” via Gershon Harrell of WPEC — City leaders in Delray Beach discussed the other avenues they could take to honor the LGBTQ community after its Pride intersection was covered. The City Commission could not agree on the matter, but several ideas were brainstormed. Some of those ideas included renaming the street to “Pride Street,” painting murals on a parking garage or even adding light projections on a water tower. The Florida Department of Transportation sandblasted the rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of Northeast 1st Street and Northeast 2nd Avenue. The state claims that the colors are distracting and can pose a risk to drivers.^[26]

“West Park Commissioners want a $30K pay raise. Residents are outraged” via Amanda Rosa of the Miami Herald — Big drama is brewing in a tiny Broward city. Residents of West Park, a small municipality south of Hollywood, are sounding the alarm on what some call “self-serving” proposed spending by City Commissioners ahead of a Commission meeting this Wednesday. In one of Broward’s smallest cities, three out of five Commissioners recommended raising their salaries to $40,000, effectively quadrupling their current $9,600 salaries. The final budget public hearing is at 6 p.m., followed by the regular City Commission meeting at 7. “What they do in Hollywood, this city can’t do. We only have 16,000 residents,” said Carolyn Hardy, 75, a longtime West Park resident.^[27]

“Former Jackson Health Foundation executive pleads guilty to $4.3M embezzlement scheme” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A federal probe into embezzlement that siphoned millions from Miami-Dade County’s public hospital fundraising arm concluded this month when one of the organization’s former top overseers admitted in federal court to orchestrating the scheme. Charmaine Gatlin, the former Chief Operating Officer of the Jackson Health Foundation, pleaded guilty to defrauding the foundation out of at least $4.3 million between 2014 and 2024. The money was intended to support Jackson Health System’s safety net hospitals and patients. Instead, Gatlin, 52, diverted the funds to herself, her relatives or unrelated entities to pay for luxury goods, kickbacks and even a rose-gold golf cart for her home in Weston.^[28]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Osceola approves budget with $1B in road improvements” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Osceola Commissioners unanimously approved a $3 billion budget, its largest ever, while also maintaining a millage rate of $6.70 — a figure unchanged for 15 consecutive years. Osceola also set aside $1 billion for ongoing road improvement projects and accepted more than $1 million in state funds to remove the aquatic vegetation from North Lake Toho. “I want to thank the county manager and everybody that has allowed us to be able to maintain the same millage rate for 15 years in a row,” Commission Chair Viviana Janer said at the meeting. “So incredibly proud.”^[29]

“Melbourne Mayor suggests naming street for Kirk after backlash against Eau Gallie business” via Tyler Vazquez and Amber Olesen of Florida Today — Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey wants to rename a street in Eau Gallie to Charlie Kirk Lane. The stretch of Cypress Avenue that he wants to rename is the block where Lamb & Co. Fishmongers is located. The company’s owner, Kaili Lamb, commented in a since-deleted social media post a few days after Kirk’s assassination, “Sorry, not sorry what a (expletive) douche.” “It was a terrible mistake,” Lamb told Florida Today of her post, noting that she is receiving threatening online messages and phone calls. Lamb posted a lengthy apology on social media and wrote, “A comment I made last night was deeply inappropriate and hurtful. … I take full responsibility for my poor judgment and hurtful words.”^[30]

“Turbulence continues in Fort Meade with resignations, utility billing problems” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — As Fort Meade reaches its seventh month of interim leadership, the city continues to deal with turbulence. Since August, the Fire Chief and the water and sewer director have resigned. City leaders face questions about errors in utility billing. And tensions have arisen surrounding plans to celebrate Fort Meade’s 175th anniversary. Meanwhile, the city has agreed to pay a combined $145,000 to settle lawsuits filed by former employees. Matt Zahara, who had been Fort Meade’s Fire Chief since March 2023, submitted his resignation in late August. Zahara led the conversion of Fort Meade’s Fire Department from a volunteer outfit into a hybrid model, with a staff of six full-time firefighters supplemented by volunteers.^[31]

“Scuba-wearing restaurant robber swims away with cash at Disney Springs” via Garfield Hylton of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A popular Disney Springs restaurant was robbed by a goggle-wearing man who reportedly fled the scene in scuba gear. On Monday, just after midnight, deputies responded to an armed robbery report at Paddlefish, a restaurant housed within a steamboat replica on the shores of the lake at Disney’s shopping and dining attraction, according to a press release from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The unidentified man approached the restaurant by swimming up in scuba gear and a wetsuit. One victim told deputies she was standing in the doorway of the manager’s office when a man came in, pushed them, and made them get on their knees. She described the robber as a white male, 5-foot-10 and about 160 pounds, wearing all black, including a blue hat, rubber gloves, a ski mask and socks, but no shoes.^[32]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Commissioner: Rays in good spot with new owners, stadium possibilities” via Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times — Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Tuesday that things are looking up for a Rays franchise often considered among the league’s most concerning. “I think that the situation in Tampa has a lot of kind of promising developments,” Manfred said at a Front Office Sports summit in New York. “I think the potential for the sale to a group that has huge, deep roots in Tampa would be a definite positive development in terms of the long-term (future of) the franchise.” A new ownership group, led by Jacksonville developer Patrick Zalupski, is expected to close a deal to buy the team from Stuart Sternberg in the next few weeks.^[33]

“Terri Balliet to kick off St. Pete City Council campaign” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Balliet, one of two candidates so far in the race to replace term-limited incumbent Gina Driscoll, is officially kicking off her campaign for St. Petersburg City Council, District 6, next week. The event will be at Voodoo Brewing located at 220 4th St. North in St. Pete on Sept. 25 from 6-8 p.m. Balliet, a local nonprofit leader who serves as the CEO of the Children’s Network of Hillsborough County, so far faces Linsey Grove, a nonprofit consultant who owns and runs The Hypatia Collaborative, a nonprofit shared services organization that provides administrative and support services and consulting to small nonprofits in the region.^[34]

“Pinellas planning to close more schools amid shrinking enrollment” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Pinellas County families should expect to see some schools close next year — and more in the following years — as the school district aims to confront enrollment declines that show no sign of rebounding. No details are set, Superintendent Kevin Hendrick said during a Tuesday School Board workshop, as his team plans to conduct town hall sessions and gather community feedback before settling on specific recommendations due in January. At least a couple of ideas are off the table for the near term, though. Hendrick pledged not to consider any major school boundary revisions for next Fall, to allow adequate time for public engagement in that often-contentious process.^[35]

“Five people detained in St. Pete Beach on ‘administrative warrants’ related to immigration status^[36]” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A routine traffic stop in Pinellas County escalated into an immigration enforcement action, with five Hispanic individuals detained based on “administrative warrants.” The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) cited the driver for not having a valid license but has refused to release reports or details, citing an active investigation. Both PCSO and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have declined to provide names or specify where the individuals are being held. The incident highlights the expanded authority of local law enforcement under new agreements with ICE, which allow deputies to perform certain immigration functions. This has raised concerns about potential racial profiling; a charge officials have vehemently denied.

“The next phase of Pinellas beach renourishment begins at Indian Shores” via Carl Lisciandrello of WUSF — Pinellas County has begun the next phase in its efforts to replenish the beaches that were devastated by last year’s hurricanes. Last week, crews began replacing the sand near 197th Avenue in Indian Shores. They’re starting by installing pipelines, followed by dredging, as part of a long-delayed emergency project that will help restore the shoreline. “This displays our commitment to protecting our beaches and to protecting our citizens and to protect their property,” Pinellas County Commission Chair Brian Scott said Friday. “It’s critically important to protecting our infrastructure and to protecting the value of our property and our No. 1 industry, tourism.”^[37]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Wakulla schools spark debate with ‘Charlie Kirk Day’ proclamation” via Alaijah Brown of the Tallahassee Democrat — The Wakulla Public School System has officially proclaimed Oct. 14 to be “Charlie Kirk Day of Peaceful Civic Discourse” after the conservative political activist was assassinated, leaving many in mourning – and others conflicted. The Wakulla County School Board unanimously approved the proclamation at its Sept. 15 meeting. Superintendent Richard Myhre made the recommendation to the Board. “This is not about partisanism,” Myhre said. On Oct. 14, which is also Kirk’s birthday, Wakulla students will receive “grade-level appropriate, Florida Standards–aligned instruction on the importance of these unalienable rights and the core values of American life,” according to the proclamation.^[38]

“FSU, TMH deal announced: Future of Tallahassee hospital now in City Commissioner hands” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — After months of confidential negotiations, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and Florida State University have struck a deal: Pending City Commission approval, TMH would become a part of FSU Health with the university taking control of all the city-owned assets of the hospital. The “landmark agreement,” first announced in a Sept. 16 informational email to TMH staff that the Tallahassee Democrat obtained, could mean the end of community ownership of the hospital in favor of an academic medical center – a step toward developing a clinical enterprise like the sprawling health care system its rival University of Florida has been operating for decades. “Maintaining local control and governance of our hospital was one of our most important tenets, and we believe this partnership accomplishes that goal and will position our organization — and our community — for an even stronger future,” CEO Mark O’Bryant wrote.^[39]

“Sarah Dugan, Donna Adelson prosecutor, named finalist for Big Bend judgeships” via Jim Rosica of USA Today Network — One of the prosecutors in the recent high-profile murder trial of Adelson is now a finalist to become a judge in Florida’s Big Bend. Assistant State Attorney Dugan was among those nominated for two open positions of circuit judge and Leon County judge, according to the 2nd Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC). Commission Chair William N. Spicola announced the panel’s picks on Sept. 16. Dugan and one other applicant were nominated for both spots.^[40]

“Jacksonville City Council considering incentives for TV or movie production company” via Joe Lister and Ric Anderson of the Jacksonville Daily Record — Jacksonville City Council could offer up to $400,000 in public incentives for a California-based movie or TV production company to film in the city. Ordinance 2025-0720, introduced by City Council member Rahman Johnson, would transfer $400,000 from the city’s debt management fund to the Office of Economic Development for the production, code-named Project T in city documents. The OED would then negotiate an agreement with the company, which would then be submitted to the Council for approval. The legislation was before the Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee on Sept. 15. Ed Randolph, the office’s director of Economic Development, told the Committee that the company plans to spend $3 million on its production in Jacksonville.^[41]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“New College announces Kirk statue to honor assassinated conservative influencer” via Melissa Pérez-Carrillo of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — New College of Florida will commission a statue of conservative activist Kirk, the school announced. The statue will be privately funded by community leaders, and its location will be announced in the coming months. The statue will “stand on campus as a commitment by New College to defend and fight for free speech and civil discourse in American life,” said Jamie Miller, vice president of communications and chief marketing officer. “Charlie Kirk knew that universities are ground zero for free speech and the marketplace of ideas. These ideas are not luxuries, but the foundation of a free republic,” said New College President Richard Corcoran.^[42]

“Bradenton spills 1.7M gallons of sewage in Manatee River, report says” via Ryan Ballogg of the Bradenton Herald — Bradenton’s wastewater plant recently spilled an estimated 1.7 million gallons of sewage into the Manatee River during an overflow at the plant, a report filed by the city says. It’s the largest spill reported this year at the wastewater plant. It comes as the city is in the midst of millions of dollars in upgrades to its aged and troubled sewer system. For now, the plant remains a source of constant pollution for the Manatee River. While major sewage spills have been less frequent this year, the plant still regularly exceeds state limits for nutrients in its treated wastewater, a known contributor to water quality problems such as harmful algal blooms like red tide.^[43]

— TOP OPINION —

“Florida’s insurance mess — big salaries, missing flood insurance, underfunded companies” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Two years ago, Tallahassee promised insurance relief. What we got were nine straight quarters of rising premiums while insurance companies reaped the benefits. You know you’re still paying through the nose and your choices are limited.^[44]

So to distract you, politicians have spent their time screaming about everything but insurance: immigrants, prosecutors, even rainbow-colored crosswalks. Pay no attention to the fact that you can barely afford your home; get angry about chalk drawings instead.

While they were busy ginning up outrage, the real insurance issues got worse. We’ve learned that executives at Slide — a company the state has forced tens of thousands of Floridians to use — had compensation packages worth a combined $50 million over two years. This wasn’t a free market success; the state foisted over 200,000 customers onto them from the state-run Citizens program, helping pad their pockets.

At the same time, a staggering number of us are dangerously exposed. Only 20% of Floridians have flood insurance, a potentially devastating mistake in a state where, anywhere it rains, it can flood.

Perhaps most disturbing, seven insurers operating in Florida were recently flagged for potentially being unable to pay all claims after a catastrophe. Is your company one of them? Who knows. The state’s insurance division refuses to release that information, choosing to protect corporate interests over consumers.

There have been a few bright spots, but rates remain punishingly high. Meanwhile, some insurance execs are cashing in, and you can’t even find out if your own company was deemed financially unsound.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Kirk’s murder does not justify suppressing speech” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — A plausible theory is that a small man simply wanted to make a huge mark on history — and he certainly did. We also may never really know why Kirk was murdered. The motive of the alleged killer, if he’s found guilty, could be as inexplicable as (Lee Harvey) Oswald’s. But Kirk’s killing has unleashed an unprecedented attack against free speech in America, as Trump and his accomplices use Kirk’s death as a pretext for declaring war against everyone and everything on the political left. It extends even to denouncing, suspending and terminating law-abiding citizens for exercising their constitutional right to question whether Kirk’s actions and words were good or bad for the nation.^[45]

“Could Walt Disney fix his company’s problems today?” via Ted Gioia of The Honest Broken — By today’s standards, Disney was a fool. He never made sequels; instead, he built cross-generational loyalty by re-releasing classics like Snow White to new audiences every few years, a strategy that turned even box-office failures into massive successes. However, his true ambition wasn’t to extend old brands. It was radical innovation, culminating in his vision for E.P.C.O.T. — not a theme park, but an experimental city of the future. This was a people-first tech hub designed for human flourishing, not just profit. The modern Disney company has abandoned this courageous spirit for tired formulas, forgetting the playbook he left behind was built on bold, original creativity, not endlessly rehashing the past.^[46]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“First look: Disney introduces ‘Tron: Ares’ overlay to Magic Kingdom ride” via DeWayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — Walt Disney World has tweaked its Tron Lightcycle/Run ride at Magic Kingdom theme park. The changes are notable, but neither drastic nor permanent, for the futuristic indoor/outdoor roller coaster. We made a couple of rounds on Monday, the first day of the revamping. Here are things to know before trekking to Tomorrowland for the “Tron: Ares” overlay. Obvious even to non-riders will be the amped up lighting package built into the sloped canopy of the ride. Thanks to adaptable LED technology, there are new hues and effects to absorb as the ride vehicles zoom past, as well as in between the streams of screams. The colors have subtle changes. What may appear blue can fade into a purple or a teal. The roof can go all red — though those moments seem to be spread out for maximum effect — or it can present a mashup from its palette.^[47]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Belated wishes to Jenna Tala of the Florida League of Cities. Celebrating today are former Tampa Bay Times reporter Charlie Frago, J.T. Foley, former St. Petersburg City Council member Charlie Gerdes, Ashby Green, Orlando Sentinel reporter Jeff Schweers, and INFLUENCE Magazine contributor Mary Beth Tyson.

___

Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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