Gulf Coast Dispatch

At its September meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed changes to improve the Marine Special Activity License (SAL) program licensing process, accommodate additional requested activities, and update provisions to several license types.

At its September meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved classifying the oceanic whitetip shark as a prohibited species within Florida state waters.

The Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) has announced the recovery of more than $10,000 for a victim of a cryptocurrency-based romance scam. The case involves Sunday Adebola, a Nigerian national who was charged in October 2023 with grand theft, scheme to defraud, money laundering, fraudulent use of a money service business, and stolen valor. If he enters the United States, Adebola faces up to 30 years in prison.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will host a public meeting on October 10 from 6-8 p.m. to discuss FWC activities and conditions on Orange, Lochloosa, and Newnans lakes. The meeting will also feature guest speakers from the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department.

FloridaCommerce has announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to Florida businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to Hurricane Debby. This assistance is specifically for those who are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Affected individuals are encouraged to submit claims at FloridaJobs.org.

Governor DeSantis issues executive order launching state investigation of second assassination attempt on President Trump

Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual POW/MIA Recognition Day in Florida Proclamation. Sept. 20, 2024, is National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

ORLANDO, Fla.—Today, during National College Savings Month, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record refunds to parents through the Florida Prepaid program and encouraged all Florida families to take advantage of an affordable prepaid college plan.

The ninth edition of the FWC Lionfish Challenge concluded on September 2, with competitors battling until the last minute and breaking the record set in 2023. Participants showcased their determination to rid Florida waters of invasive lionfish and claim the titles of Lionfish King or Queen and Commercial Champion.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is hosting the 2024-2025 Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest. The annual program invites youth from around the world to connect with nature and learn about fish and aquatic habitats while exploring creative art and writing. Since its founding in 1997, the Fish Art Contest has reached over 85,000 youth in 46 countries, building future stewards of the outdoors.

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced two judicial appointments to the Hillsborough County Court.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Samantha Ferrin, Robert “Bob” Majka, Monica Russell, and Chris Young to the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged.

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Eudaldo “Eddie” Lopez to the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Miami-Dade County.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Roberto Diaz, Rylan Douthett, Geoffrey Fraser, Dr. Amit Rastogi, and Thomas Sabatino to the Health Care Innovation Council.

Generations of service members and their families gathered for the renaming of the St. Francis Barracks Parade Field at St. Augustine, Fla., on Sept. 13, 2024. The field was renamed in honor of retired Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw, Jr., former Adjutant General of Florida. This field represents the legacy the Guard has built through its decades of dedicated service to both the nation and the state.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced a significant milestone for its TrophyCatch program, marking the approval of 15,000 trophy bass catches.

The Heritage Foundation has announced that Florida ranks first in Education Freedom for the third consecutive year. This ranking reflects Florida's focus on expanding school choice, supporting parental rights in education, and enabling families to choose the best educational options for their children. The Education Freedom Report Card was initiated in 2022, and Florida has maintained the top position since its inception.

The Heritage Foundation announced today that Florida ranks #1 in Education Freedom for the third consecutive year. This achievement is attributed to Florida’s initiatives to expand school choice, support parental rights in education, and ensure families can make optimal educational choices for their children. The Education Freedom Report Card, which began in 2022, has consistently placed Florida at the top.

Tallahassee, Fla., September 11, 2024 – Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. announced the selected books for the Commissioner’s Book of the Month for September. This initiative is part of a monthly reading challenge aimed at promoting literacy and engagement in preK-12 schools. Each month, Commissioner Diaz highlights five recommended books, one for each selected grade range.

PALM HARBOR, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis spoke at the Palm Harbor 9/11 Memorial Ceremony to honor the memories of those lost in the attacks on September 11th, 2001.