The Tallahassee mayoral race has the largest fundraising totals. Former state Sen. Loranne Ausley leads with $347,252.92 in contributions, followed closely by Daryl Parks with $319,917.55. Jeremy Matlow has raised $188,987.90, while Mike Foust has collected $6,437.49.

The numbers make the mayor’s race the most competitive financially at the top. Ausley has raised about $27,335 more than Parks, while Matlow trails Ausley by roughly $158,265.

In City Commission Seat 3, Tom Derzypolski leads the six-candidate field with $116,519.16. Talethia Edwards is second at $84,294.26, followed by PJ Perez at $67,916.21. Maxwell Herrle has raised $31,880.07, while Norm Roche and Darryl Alfred are far behind at $7,256.87 and $6,375.90, respectively.

That makes Seat 3 a three-candidate fundraising race at the top, with Derzypolski holding a roughly $32,225 advantage over Edwards and $48,603 over Perez.

Seat 5 is less competitive financially. Dianne Williams-Cox leads with $75,537, more than three times the $23,784.26 raised by Dot Inman-Johnson and nearly four times the $19,970.30 raised by Tiffany Hill.

Among the Leon County School Board races, District 3 incumbent Darryl Jones is unopposed. District 5 has a substantial fundraising disparity, with Marcus Nicolas raising $14,797.78, compared with $3,481 for James G. Reilly Jr.

The figures suggest the mayor’s race is the closest fundraising contest, while Seat 3 has a meaningful three-way financial competition. Seat 5 and the School Board District 5 race show much larger fundraising gaps.

Beginning July 8, detectives investigated seven smash-and-grab-style burglaries that occurred throughout Tallahassee, with the most recent taking place on Aug. 2. In each case, the suspects used a large object to shatter the front glass door of a business before immediately targeting the cash register and fleeing in less than three minutes. Through investigative work, detectives determined all seven incidents were connected.

As the investigation continued, detectives collected evidence and subsequently identified the primary suspect, along with the vehicle believed to have been used during the burglary spree. Additionally, during several of the burglaries, the suspect was armed with a firearm while unlawfully entering the businesses.

The investigation ultimately led detectives to identify and locate the individuals responsible for the burglary spree. Through evidence collected during the investigation, detectives linked the suspects to the series of burglaries and recovered a firearm believed to have been used during several of the offenses. All three individuals were taken into custody without incident.

“This case is another example of the dedication and collaboration that exists across the Tallahassee Police Department,” said Chief Lawrence Revell. “From patrol officers responding to the initial calls to detectives, crime analysts and specialized investigative units working tirelessly behind the scenes, this investigation demonstrates our commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting our business community.”

Those arrested include, Kymani Geter,16, who was charged with unarmed burglary of an unoccupied structure, armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, attempted armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, criminal mischief, and seven counts of petit theft.

Zyah Geter, 21, was charged with attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft.

Antwaniya Winchester, 19, was charged with attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft.

Friday, August 7, 2026

Weather: Today, a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 2pm and 3pm with a high near 93. Tonight, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm with a low around 74. Saturday, a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm, with a high near 92. Saturday night, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm with a low around 75. NWS

US stock markets close lower (S&P 500 -0.2%, Dow -0.9%, Nasdaq -0.1%).

Local Sports: With several of Leon County’s top boy swimmers graduating, a new group of returners will take over the spotlight during the 2026-2027 season. Details.

Local & State News

The number of single-family residential construction permits issued in July were up 92.3% when compared to July 2025. Details.

Steve Stewart discusses the role of political ideology in the city commission races.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday that the state will not challenge a Leon County Circuit judge’s finding that the ballot title and summary for Amendment 3 defective and that the Attorney General James Uthmeier is rewriting the language. Details

National News

Dr. Anthony Fauci held in contempt of Congress by Senate committee for refusing to answer questions about COVID-19 pandemic (More).

President Donald Trump signs executive orders restricting birthright citizenship for kids of foreign lobbyists, “birth tourists,” and more (More).

Owen Ekk – Chiles

Owen Ekk enters the 2026-2027 season as one of the top returning swimmers in Leon County after a dominant 2025-2026 campaign. Ekk won two individual state titles, placing first in the 100 freestyle with a season-best time of 44.74 and the 200 individual medley with a personal-best time of 1:46.23. He also helped Chiles finish second in the 200-medley relay alongside teammates Crosby Fenniman, Tyler Wang, and Will Bracken.

Ekk finished the season with the fastest returning times in Leon County in the 50 freestyle (20.97), 100 freestyle (44.56), and 200 IM (1:46.23), making him one of the most versatile swimmers in the county.

Jacob Askey – Leon

Jacob Askey returns as one of the top distance swimmers in Leon County after a strong 2025-2026 season. Askey placed 13th in the 200 freestyle finals at the FHSAA Class 3A State Championship with a time of 1:44.03 and finished the season as the county leader in both the 200 freestyle (1:43.80) and 500 freestyle (4:39.17).

Along with his distance success, Askey also recorded a 22.82 in the 50 freestyle, showing his ability to contribute outside of traditional distance events.

Kipton Fenniman – Chiles

Kipton Fenniman returns after a strong season that included a state championship appearance in the 500 freestyle. Fenniman placed eighth in the 500 freestyle finals with a time of 4:43.01 and finished the season with one of the top returning distance times in the county.

Fenniman also recorded a 1:55.93 in the 200 IM, 51.07 in the 100 freestyle, and 24.30 in the 50 freestyle, making him one of the county’s most versatile returning swimmers.

William Chen – Maclay

William Chen returns as one of Maclay’s top swimmers after a standout 2025-2026 season. Chen placed among the county’s fastest swimmers in the sprint events, recording a 21.96 in the 50 freestyle and a 48.78 in the 100 freestyle. His speed gives Maclay one of the top returning sprint threats in Leon County heading into the 2026-2027 season.

Manny Squiter – Chiles

Manny Squitier enters the season as another key returning swimmer for Chiles after competing at the state championship level during the 2025-2026 season. Squitier recorded a 22.67 in the 50 freestyle, 48.76 in the 100 freestyle, and 1:44.44 in the 200 freestyle. He also posted a 54.88 in the 100 butterfly, showing his ability to compete across sprint freestyle and stroke events.

Tyler Wang – Chiles

Tyler Wang returns as one of the county’s top swimmers across multiple strokes after helping Chiles earn a second-place finish in the 200-medley relay at the state championship. Wang was part of the relay team alongside Owen Ekk, Crosby Fenniman, and Will Bracken.

Individually, Wang recorded one of the county’s strongest performances in the 100 butterfly with a time of 53.68, the fastest returning time in the event. He also posted a 1:00.02 in the 100 breaststroke, giving Chiles another elite-level swimmer in multiple events.

Case Moore – Lincoln

Case Moore returns as one of Lincoln’s top swimmers after leading the Trojans in several events during the 2025-2026 season. Moore recorded the fastest returning time for Lincoln in the 200 freestyle with a 1:52.98 and also posted a 59.07 in the 100 backstroke and a 24.29 in the 50 freestyle. With his versatility across multiple events, Moore enters the season as one of Lincoln’s swimmers to watch.

David Paquette – Maclay

David Paquette returns as one of Maclay’s strongest distance swimmers after posting some of the top freestyle times in the county during the 2025-2026 season. Paquette recorded a 1:49.93 in the 200 freestyle and a 5:01.59 in the 500 freestyle. His distance performances give Maclay a strong returning presence in longer freestyle events.

Brennan Abatecola – Maclay

Brennan Abatecola returns as one of Maclay’s most experienced freestyle swimmers. Abatecola recorded a 51.84 in the 100 freestyle, a 1:54.00 in the 200 freestyle, and a 24.72 in the 50 freestyle during the 2025-2026 season. His ability to compete in multiple freestyle events makes him an important returner for the Marauders.

Grant Hudnall – Leon

Grant Hudnall returns as one of Leon’s top returning sprinters after recording strong performances during the 2025-2026 season. Hudnall posted a 24.13 in the 50 freestyle and a 1:04.04 in the 100 butterfly. With several top swimmers graduating, Hudnall will look to take on a larger role for the Lions during the 2026-2027 season.

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Weather: Today, scattered showers and thunderstorms, with a high near 92. Tonight, scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm, with a low around 73. Friday, isolated showers and thunderstorms between 2pm and 3pm with a high near 93. Friday night, isolated showers with a low around 75. NWS

US stock markets close mixed (S&P 500 -0.1%, Dow +0.5%, Nasdaq -0.8%) (More).

Local & State News

Steve Stewart discusses the role of political ideology in the Tallahassee mayoral race.

A federal appeals court Tuesday determined Florida’s law banning children from drag shows is constitutional, tossing aside an earlier ruling that found it violated the First Amendment. Details

Colorado State University researchers further reduced their projections for the number of named systems, including the odds of landfalls, during the remaining months of the Atlantic hurricane season. Details

National News

Progressive Abdul El-Sayed wins Democratic primary for the Senate seat in Michigan, narrowly defeating pro-Israel centrist Rep. Haley Stevens (D, MI-11) (More).

Senate confirms Erica Schwartz as CDC director, President Donald Trump’s third pick for the role (More).

Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Weather: Today, scattered showers and thunderstorms after 2pm with a high near 91. Tonight, patchy fog after 1am with a low around 72. Thursday, a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm, with a high near 91. Thursday night, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2am with a low around 73. NWS

US stock markets close at record highs (S&P 500 +1.8%, Dow +1.7%, Nasdaq +2.6%), fueled by earnings reports (More).

Local & State News

A local media outlet recently addressed the partisanship of candidates running for local non-partisan races. With most local candidates registered as Democrats, this guide does little for voters who are looking for contrast among the candidates. Details.

State university officials want Congress to pass an antitrust exemption for the NCAA to establish a salary cap, along with transfer and eligibility regulations on student athletic programs. Details

The title and summary of a property tax cut proposal to be placed on the November ballot contain political rhetoric and are misleading, and must be redrafted, a Leon Circuit Court judge ruled late Monday. Details

National News

Progressive Abdul El-Sayed leads in Democratic Senate primary race in Michigan as of this writing, ahead of centrist Rep. Haley Stevens (D, MI-11); winner will face former Rep. Mike Rogers (R, MI-8) in November; see live updates (More).

At least 12 states have reported cyberattacks targeting drinking water and wastewater utilities, with officials investigating whether Iranian-linked hackers were behind some of the incidents. Authorities say drinking water was not contaminated, though some Minnesota residents experienced low-pressure water flow or received boil water notices.

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Weather: Today, showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 4pm and 5pm with a high near 92. Tonight, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8pm. with a low around 73. Wednesday, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 3pm and 5pm with a high near 92. Wednesday night, partly cloudy, with a low around 73. NWS

US stock markets close higher (S&P 500 +1.5%, Dow +1.3%, Nasdaq +2.1%); Dow hits record as Big Tech stocks rise and oil prices fall (More).

Local & State News

The Leon County School District is planning major capital projects totaling $183.5 million over the next five years, with the largest investments concentrated at Augusta Raa Middle School, Elizabeth Cobb Middle School, John G. Riley Elementary School and Griffin Middle School. Details.

Public safety groups are warning voters about the property tax cut amendment that will appear on ballots this November. Details

National News

Michigan voters head to the polls today for statewide races, including the most expensive Democratic Senate primary in US history. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in November for the seat being vacated by Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI).

Amazon becomes fifth company to top $3T market cap as its shares reach a new all-time high (More).

Monday, August 3, 2026

Weather: Today, a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm, with a high near 88. Tonight a 30 percent chance of showers with a low around 72. Tuesday, showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 4pm and 5pm, with a high near 91. Tuesday night, showers and thunderstorms likely, with a low around 73. NWS

US stock markets rise Friday (S&P 500 +0.7%, Dow +0.5%, Nasdaq +1.0%); Amazon shares rise almost 16% as cloud service sales jump by more than 37% year-over-year (More).

Local & State News

Voters in Florida House District 9’s Republican primary will choose between first-time candidates Jibri Knight and Tracy Robinson on Aug. 18, with the winner advancing to face Democratic incumbent Allison Tant in the November general election. Details.

Check out the voting guide for the Tallahassee mayoral race and the two city commission races. Details.

A shared federal database has provided evidence to charge a Canadian citizen with voting illegally in Florida seven times, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced, chastising a federal judge who has shut down that same database for most of the country. Details

National News

President Donald Trump announced a pause in US strikes against Iran Saturday, citing “rapid” progress toward a deal to end the monthslong war.

The nation’s first ban on tools allowing users to generate nonconsensual “nudified” content from images or video of fully clothed people went into effect in Minnesota Saturday, after a judge denied a last-minute suspension request from Elon Musk. A hearing is set for Aug. 19 to decide whether to pause the ban while legal challenges proceed.

The free community event, themed “Our Story, Our Library,” featured a commemorative ceremony, family activities, community organizations, refreshments, music, a historical exhibit, and a special story time. The event honored the library’s history and its profound impact on generations of residents.

“For 25 years, the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library has opened doors of opportunity and discovery for residents of all ages,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Christian Caban. “As we celebrate ‘Our Story, Our Library,’ we look forward to empowering the next generation of dreamers, thinkers, and innovators.”

The library is named in honor of Dr. Benjamin L. Perry, Jr., a community leader who served as the sixth president of Florida A&M University from 1968 to 1977. During his tenure, he was a champion for the university and is credited with saving FAMU from the threat of merger with Florida State University during the late 1960s. After many years of service to the community, Perry passed away on March 21, 1997.

“For decades, the Southside has been shaped by a powerful legacy of community resilience and visionary leadership, personified by the extraordinary life of Dr. Benjamin Perry, Jr.,” said Leon County District 1 Commissioner Bill Proctor. “This celebration honors that deep history, ensuring that Perry’s lifelong dedication to empowering others continues to light the path forward for generations to come.”

Originally opened as Page One in 1975, the branch later became the Bond Community Branch Library before opening at its current South Adams Street location as the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library on July 21, 2001. Since then, it has provided internet access, early literacy programming and a welcoming gathering place for the Southside community.

“A library is only as strong as the people who serve in it, and for 25 years, our dedicated staff at the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch have put our community at the heart of everything they do,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “This silver anniversary honors their tireless efforts to connect, inspire, and support generations of Leon County residents.”

Today, the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library continues to serve as a vital resource for residents of all ages. As part of the Leon County Public Library System, the branch offers books, technology, educational programs, and meeting spaces that foster lifelong learning and community connection.

“Over the last 25 years, the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library has served as a launchpad for discovery, offering everything from digital tools and educational workshops to community gathering spaces,” said Leon County Public Library Director Pamela Monroe. “As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this foundation by continuing to offer innovative services and engaging programming that inspires and connects our community.”

“Papa firmly believed in education, but even more than that, he believed in lifelong learning and growth,” said Joi Randle, granddaughter of Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. “He believed in leaving people better than you found them. That lifting someone else up, will never hold you down.”

To learn more about the programs and services offered at the library and to sign up for a library card, visit LeonCountyLibrary.org.

Knight, a Tallahassee native and insurance professional from Monticello, is campaigning on a traditional conservative platform centered on limited government, fiscal responsibility, support for law enforcement and the military, and eliminating property taxes. A graduate of Lincoln High School, Knight says his experience in the insurance industry and state government has prepared him to address issues affecting North Florida. His campaign also emphasizes environmental stewardship, support for small businesses, and strengthening protections for children and families.

Robinson, of Madison, brings a different background to the race. A graduate of Florida A&M University, she has worked in emergency management, law enforcement, and technology, including as an artificial intelligence engineer. Robinson describes herself as a “community first” Republican and has built her campaign around what she calls the “REVIVE” agenda, focusing on restoring communities, expanding economic opportunity, investing in infrastructure, supporting veterans and public safety, strengthening education, and promoting faith and families.

While both candidates identify as Republicans, they offer distinct approaches. Knight has emphasized conservative governance and reducing the size and cost of government, while Robinson has highlighted community revitalization, economic development, and bringing technology and innovation to state government. Both candidates also stress their commitment to North Florida values and improving the quality of life in District 9.

The Republican nominee will face a difficult challenge in November against Tant, who has represented the district since 2020. Although the district has become somewhat more competitive following redistricting, it has consistently elected Democrats to the Florida House over the past decade.

Friday, July 31, 2026

Weather: Today, a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm with a high near 93. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms likely before 11pm with a low around 74. Saturday, showers and thunderstorms likely, high near 86. Saturday night, Showers and thunderstorms, low around 73. NWS

US stock markets close higher (S&P 500 +1.7%, Dow +1.2%, Nasdaq +2.8%) (More).

Local Sports: On July 23rd, Chiles Alum Tyler Correa posted that he has officially committed to continue his college baseball career at Florida State University. Details.

Local & State News

Voter Info City Commission Seat 5: Incumbent City Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox is seeking a third term representing Tallahassee City Commission Seat 5 after first winning election in 2018. Her challengers include Tiffany Hill and Dot Inman-Johnson. Details.

Former House Speaker Paul Renner is attempting to climb up the polls and drag down U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in the Republican gubernatorial primary, but he’s also trained his sights at Dr. Anthony Fauci. Details

The U.S. Department of Labor on Thursday estimated 5,806 initial Florida unemployment claims were filed last week, down from a revised count of 6,281 the week ending July 18 and 7,334 the week ending July 11. Details

National News

US economy slowed to 1.5% growth in Q2, while US Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index—key inflation metric monitored by the Fed—fell to 3.7% year over year in June, down from 4.1% in May (More).

Authorities investigate whether Iran was responsible for cyberattacks on more than 30 water plants in Minnesota this week (More).

Chipola

As an infielder for the Indians, Correa quickly established himself as one of Chipola’s most productive offensive players during his freshman season. Appearing in 53 games, he batted .372 with 68 hits, 50 runs scored, 51 RBIs, eight doubles, four triples, and five home runs. Correa also displayed excellent plate discipline, drawing 33 walks while striking out just 17 times, helping him post a .473 on-base percentage and a .541 slugging percentage.

Correa’s consistency carried over into conference play, where he hit .325 with 25 hits, 20 runs, and 20 RBIs in 21 games. He added three doubles, two triples, and a home run while maintaining a .443 on-base percentage. Along with his production at the plate, Correa contributed on the bases with seven stolen bases and showcased the all-around skill set that made him one of Chipola’s top performers and ultimately earned him an opportunity to continue his career at Florida State.

Chiles

During his time at Chiles, Correa established himself as one of the program’s top offensive contributors, finishing his varsity career with a .390 batting average across 110 games. Over four seasons, he recorded 135 hits, 115 runs scored, 58 RBIs, 30 doubles, one triple, and four home runs. Correa also showed consistent production throughout his career, posting a batting average above .340 in each of his four varsity seasons.

His strongest season came during his senior year in 2024-2025, when Correa hit .485 with 47 hits, 29 runs scored, 19 RBIs, and nine doubles in 31 games. The performance capped a highly productive high school career and helped solidify his reputation as one of the area’s premier infielders before continuing his baseball career at Chipola College.

Defensively, Correa provided versatility and reliability in the infield throughout his four seasons at Chiles. In 110 varsity games, he recorded 124 putouts and 179 assists while finishing with a .944 fielding percentage. Correa’s strongest defensive season came as a junior in 2023-2024, when he posted a .977 fielding percentage with 56 assists and just two errors across 88 total chances. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball made him a valuable piece of the Timberwolves’ lineup and helped prepare him for the next level of collegiate baseball.