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State back-to-school sales tax holiday will end Aug. 12

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(The Center Square) — Florida families are able to take advantage of an ongoing sales tax holiday as they prepare their children for the new school year.

Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference July 25 to highlight the Back-To-School sales tax holiday, which began July 29 and will last two weeks until Aug. 12.

(Rivage/Unsplash)

“This is an opportunity to save real money…it will allow you to save money on the most important school supplies, including pretty much any school supply selling for $50 or less is tax-free, clothing, footwear, and other apparel $100 or less, tax-free,” DeSantis said. “Learning aids up to $30 tax-free, personal computers and other accessories with a sales price of $1,500 or less…are tax-free.”

Other sales tax holidays include a 50% reduction for commuters that use toll roads, the disaster preparedness tax holiday that happens twice a year, a skilled worker tool sales tax holiday beginning in September and the Freedom Summer sales tax holiday that is currently happening during July.

“I appreciate the Legislature stepping up and renewing this — it’s important that we’re able to provide for Florida families,” DeSantis said.

Florida’s economy was recently ranked number one by CNBC, and DeSantis noted that because of this success, he and the Legislature could deliver billions in tax cuts for Floridians.

“We are number one in new business formations every year since I’ve been governor, number one in net in-migration…number one in education two years in a row by U.S. News & World Report, number one in the higher education system, I think six years in a row now,” DeSantis said.

DeSantis stated that tuition costs for state universities and colleges have not increased since he became governor and remain well below what other states charge students.

The Bright Futures Scholarship Program is fully funded in the 2024-2025 state budget. This program awards scholarships to high-achieving high school students, who can receive free tuition or a 75% reduction in tuition fees if they still perform well academically.

Top-performing out-of-state students who have a grandparent or other close family members living in the Sunshine State could also be eligible for scholarships. DeSantis noted that Florida also ranks number one in the nation for education freedom from pre-K through 12th grade.

 

Published August 7, 2024

Florida to provide $7.2M for workforce training at St. Petersburg College

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(The Center Square) — Florida officials are appropriating taxpayer funds for workforce training to create new job opportunities for residents.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on July 24 new workforce training opportunities in St. Petersburg, and noted Florida’s success since taking office, including its top ranking in education and job creation.

(Jub Rubjob/Getty)

DeSantis announced that St. Petersburg College will receive $7.2 million to establish a semiconductor, artificial intelligence and machine learning training program. He pointed out that semiconductors have become the lifeblood of the modern economy, but are often purchased from overseas.

“This is a very high-skill, very high-tech industry for our state,” DeSantis said. “We have invested hundreds of millions of dollars into growing these various sectors in our states, and some of it is through workforce programs.”

DeSantis stated that not making semiconductors in the U.S. is a national security risk, especially because a large amount comes from Taiwan and China.

“The bottom line is, there’s a lot of uncertainty with respect to this, and this has the opportunity, if those chips aren’t being produced, to really crash the economy,” DeSantis said.

The governor stated taking on a four-year degree and a high amount of debt is not always appealing to everyone and noted there are more ways to be successful beyond going to a university or college, which is why workforce training and trade schools are also a priority in Florida.

“You have so many programs where you can go in at low cost, and get equipped with skills where you can really apply that in a very meaningful way,” DeSantis said. 

DeSantis stated he wants to provide opportunities and pathways for not only young people, but people looking for a change in career as well.

“We’re producing high school students that have skills in welding, producing skills in electrical, producing high school students with skills in HVAC,” DeSantis said. “In a state like Florida, all that is gonna be in demand. You are gonna be employed, there’s no question about that.”

DeSantis noted this type of training will allow Floridians to start businesses if they wish to, and further pointed out that Florida is not becoming less populated, and those jobs will always be needed.

 

Published August 7, 2024.

Garden-to-table meals: Harvesting and cooking together as a family

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August is the perfect time for families to enjoy the fruits of their labor from their home gardens. The garden-to-table movement emphasizes the importance of growing your own food and creating delicious meals from the produce you’ve nurtured. This approach promotes healthy eating, sustainability and quality family time. Here’s how you can turn your garden into a source of fresh, wholesome meals and create memorable experiences together.

1. Planning and planting your garden
Making family meals from homegrown food can promote health and happiness.
(Halfpoint Images/Getty)
  • Choose your crops: Start by selecting fruits, vegetables and herbs that thrive in your climate and suit your family’s tastes. Popular choices for summer gardens include tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, bell peppers, basil and mint.
  • Involve the kids: Engage your children in the planting process. Teach them about different plants, how to sow seeds, and the importance of watering and caring for their garden.
  • Create a schedule: Maintain a gardening schedule to ensure regular watering, weeding and checking for pests. This teaches responsibility and consistency.
2. Harvesting the bounty
  • Know when to harvest: Research the best time to harvest each type of produce. For instance, tomatoes should be picked when they are fully colored and zucchinis are best when they’re about 6 inches to 8 inches long.
  • Make it fun: Turn harvesting into a fun family activity. Give each child a basket and let them collect the ripe produce. Celebrate the hard work and patience it took to grow these delicious foods.
Grill some veggie skewers for a wholesome meal. (Sean Gladwell/Getty)
3. Creating garden-to-table meals
  • Fresh salads: Start with simple dishes like fresh garden salads. Combine crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers and a sprinkle of basil. Let the kids help with washing and chopping the vegetables.
  • Grilled veggie skewers: Skewer chunks of zucchini, bell peppers and cherry tomatoes. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and grill until tender. This is a great way to get kids to enjoy vegetables.
  • Herb-infused lemonade: Use fresh mint or basil from your garden to create refreshing herb-infused lemonade. It’s a healthy and hydrating treat for hot summer days.
  • Homemade pizza: Make a family pizza night using homemade dough, fresh tomato sauce, and toppings from your garden. Basil, tomatoes and bell peppers make excellent pizza toppings.
  • Stuffed zucchini boats: Hollow out zucchinis and stuff them with a mixture of quinoa, tomatoes and herbs. Bake until tender for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
4. Educational benefits
  • Science lessons: Gardening offers practical lessons in biology and ecology. Children learn about plant life cycles, photosynthesis and the importance of pollinators.
  • Math skills: Measuring plant growth, counting seeds and weighing harvested produce help reinforce math skills.
  • Healthy eating habits: Kids are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables they’ve helped grow. This encourages healthy eating habits and an appreciation for fresh, nutritious food.
5. Sustainability and environmental awareness
  • Reduce food miles: Growing your own food reduces the need for transportation, decreasing your carbon footprint.
  • Composting: Teach your family about composting kitchen scraps and garden waste to enrich your soil naturally.
  • Water conservation: Use rain barrels and mulch to conserve water and maintain a sustainable garden.
6. Building family bonds
  • Teamwork: Gardening and cooking together fosters teamwork and cooperation. Each family member can have specific roles, from planting to cooking.
  • Quality time: Spend time together away from screens and daily distractions. Working in the garden and kitchen offers opportunities for meaningful conversations and bonding.
  • Sense of accomplishment: Seeing the process from planting to enjoying a meal provides a sense of achievement and pride for both parents and children.

The garden-to-table approach is a rewarding way to spend time together as a family, promoting healthy living, sustainability and lifelong skills. By involving every member of the family in the process, from planting seeds to creating delicious meals, you create cherished memories and instill valuable lessons about the importance of fresh, homegrown food. So, grab your gardening gloves, head to the garden, and start planting the seeds for both your garden and your family’s health and happiness.

 

Published August 7, 2024

 

End of summer family adventures

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As summer starts to wind down, it’s the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family. With the weather still warm and the days long, you have a golden opportunity to embark on fun, adventurous activities before the school year and cooler temperatures begin. Here are some engaging and enjoyable end-of-summer family adventures to make the most of the remaining sunshine.

1. Outdoor movie night

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor movie theater. Set up a projector and screen (or a white sheet), and arrange blankets and lawn chairs for seating. Prepare some popcorn, snacks and drinks, and let the whole family enjoy a favorite film under the stars. For added fun, consider a themed movie night with costumes or a selection of summer classics.

It’s not too late to squeeze in one more camping trip before school starts. (Sebastien St-Jean/AFP via Getty Images)
2. Beach or lake day

Spend a day at the beach or lake soaking up the sun and enjoying water activities. Pack a picnic, beach toys and sunscreen. Whether you’re building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball or just relaxing by the water, a day at the beach or lake is a classic summer adventure that the whole family will love.

3. Family hiking excursion

Explore nature by taking a family hike on a nearby trail. Choose a trail suitable for all fitness levels and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Bring along a nature guidebook to identify local wildlife and plants, or pack a journal to record your observations and experiences. A picnic at the end of the trail is a great way to reward everyone’s efforts.

4. Visit a local farm or farmer’s market

Take a trip to a local farm or farmer’s market to explore fresh produce and farm animals. Many farms offer pick-your-own fruit or vegetable experiences, which can be both educational and fun. After your visit, use your fresh finds to cook a meal together, highlighting the journey from farm to table.

5. Plan a family camping trip

If you haven’t yet been camping this summer, now’s a great time to plan a family camping trip. Whether you choose a state park, a campground or even your own backyard, camping is a fantastic way to bond as a family. Enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, s’mores by the campfire and stargazing.

6. Explore a nearby city or town

Take a day trip to explore a nearby city or town that you haven’t visited before. Check out local attractions, museums, parks or historical sites. This can be an exciting way to learn about new places and create special family memories. Be sure to visit a local eatery or café to get a taste of the area’s cuisine.

7. Host a family talent show

Unleash your family’s creativity by hosting a talent show at home. Each family member can prepare and perform their unique talent, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks or comedy. Set up a stage area and create tickets and programs for a fun, organized event. Celebrate everyone’s performances with a small awards ceremony or a special treat.

8. Go on a scavenger hunt

Create a scavenger hunt that takes your family on a quest around your neighborhood or a local park. Make a list of items or landmarks to find and provide clues or riddles to guide them along the way. This can be a great way to explore familiar places with a new perspective and enjoy some friendly competition.

Snorkeling can be a fun adventure if your family enjoys being in the water. (Thomas Barwick/Getty)
9. Try a new water sport

If your family enjoys being in the water, consider trying a new water sport like paddleboarding, kayaking or snorkeling. Many rental places offer equipment and lessons for beginners. Trying something new can be an exciting adventure and a chance to learn a new skill together.

10. Plan a DIY arts and crafts day

Spend a creative day indoors by tackling a DIY arts and crafts project as a family. Choose a project that interests everyone, such as painting, making jewelry or building a birdhouse. Gather supplies and set up a crafting station where everyone can contribute their ideas and creations.

The end of summer is a fantastic opportunity to make the most of the remaining warm days and create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor adventures, exploring new places or simply having fun at home, these activities will help you celebrate the season and make the most of the time spent together. So gather your family, plan your adventures and enjoy the final moments of summer together.

 

Published August 7, 2024.

Girl Scout receives ‘gold’ for magazine

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The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) has recognized Gold Award Girl Scout Emily Conner as the recipient of the Girl Scouts of the USA Gold Award Scholarship. Conner, a St. Petersburg Collegiate High School 2024 graduate, earned $5,000 in honor of her enterprise entitled, “Astraea Zine Project,” according to a news release.

Emily Conner was honored for her magazine, “Astraea Zine.” (Courtesy of Maddi Dolan/GSWCF)

Astraea Zine is a magazine in which photography, art and writing are published both digitally and in print to amplify the voices of girls who would not otherwise have the resources or ability to express and share their experiences. With the help of 10 girls, Conner published five issues of the magazine, showcasing hundreds of submitted works, the release says

“I was inspired to create Astraea Zine because of my love for writing, art and sisterhood. I had submitted some of my poems to similar online magazines, and I felt really fulfilled and proud to be part of a publication. I wanted to help other girls, especially younger girls just starting their creative journey, to get published, too,” said Conner in the release.

“Anyone who submits to Astraea Zine, no matter the experience level, can be part of the publication,” said Conner.

Each year, the Gold Award Scholarship recognizes one outstanding Gold Award Girl Scout, per council. 

The Gold Award is the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn, available to girls in high school who create sustainable change in a community.

As a recent graduate, the scholarship Conner received will assist with tuition as she begins her college career this fall, at which she plans to study psychology.

In addition to the $5,000, Conner also earned the local council’s scholarship of $450 and the Ann Hensler Scholarship of $600.

For more information about Conner’s project, visit www.astraeazine.com or GSWCF.org/gold.

Published July 31, 2024

State officials predict Florida K-12 enrollment will continue to grow

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(The Center Square) — Florida economists have suggested that full-time enrollment in Florida’s schools has increased over recent years but still remains below pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

The Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) held a two-part education estimating conference in late June and July for Florida’s Public Schools Capital Outlay Full Time Equivalent (COFTE) Membership — and forecasts show a small but steady increase in enrollments.

(kali9/Getty Images)

During the pandemic, enrollments in Florida schools decreased by 6% in the fall of 2020. While they have begun to increase, they remain 3% below their prior level. Economists noted that this is due to more school options being presented to parents, including homeschooling options and access to scholarships.

According to state data, full-time equivalent enrollment from pre-K through 12th grade had a total of 2.37 million students in 2022-2023, an increase of over 32,000 or 1.4% over the previous year.

This was, however, less than anticipated from the 2023 forecast, and EDR economists pointed out more parents are choosing a different setting for kindergarten.

“The take-home point here is that kindergarten came in less than anticipated, which is a reflection of families choosing a non-COFTE setting for their kindergartener,” Elizabeth Goodman from EDR said during the conference.

The conference projected in 2023-2024, student numbers will again increase by 0.2% or 3,774 full-time students. Into the future, enrollment is forecast to continue growth trends, projected to grow by 0.5% in 2024-2025, and 0.7% in 2025-2026.

State Pre-K numbers only include preschool-aged children with disabilities and children whose parents are in the Teenage Parent Program. Estimates also do not include children participating exclusively in the Voluntary Prekindergarten Program who receive services through the public school system.

School districts were invited to submit comments on the June forecast between July 2 and July 12. Five school districts — Hernando, Brevard, Flagler, Osceola and St. Lucie — requested workbooks.

Flagler requested a change to the conference’s forecast model, asking to use the two most recent years. Flagler’s preliminary forecast was 12,112.39 membership. The district’s new forecast for the projected 2024-2025 is now 12,242.64 membership, and the conference adopted it.

Published July 31, 2024

Unique tree on view at MOSI

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A new Moon Tree is now on display at the Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa. (A new Moon Tree is now on display at the Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa. (Courtesy of MOSI)

Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) has become one of the first sites on Earth to place a new Moon Tree on display, unveiling the tree in honor of the 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing on the Moon, according to a news release.

The new Moon Tree was grown from a seed that flew around the Moon aboard the Artemis 1 spacecraft in 2022. The seed traveled 270,000 miles aboard Artemis 1 and after returning to earth, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service planted it and nurtured it until it was large and healthy enough to be delivered to MOSI.

The Moon Tree idea originally “sprouted” during the Apollo era. NASA astronaut Stuart Roosa was a former smokejumper (forest firefighter). He carried hundreds of tree seeds in special containers aboard his Apollo 14 spacecraft, which circled the moon in 1971, the release says. Many of those seeds were grown into trees that were planted around the world, giving people on earth a closer connection to its nearest neighbor in space.

NASA is working to place similar Moon Trees in other locations across the country; MOSI was the first selected.

Guests at the museum can see the sweetgum tree growing in MOSI’s Science Park, near the LIVECycles Butterfly Garden, Sky Trail Ropes Course and SciLinx Mini-Golf course.

Published July 31, 2024

Strategies for students to prepare for the upcoming school year

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Throughout the summer, students had the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge. But with the end of summer approaching, here are some strategies students can still use to set themselves up for success in the upcoming school year. 

1. Set clear goals
Before the new school year starts, it’s helpful for students to set clear academic and personal goals. This could include improving in a specific subject, developing a new skill or achieving a personal milestone. By outlining what they hope to accomplish, students can create a focused plan for their summer.

2. Review and refresh
The last few weeks of summer is an ideal time for students to review what they learned during the past school year. Picking up where they left off with subjects they found challenging can help them retain knowledge and build a stronger foundation. Many students find it useful to use online resources or educational apps to brush up on key concepts.

(Klaus Vedfelt/Getty)

3. Read for pleasure and knowledge
Reading isn’t just for enjoyment — it can also be a powerful tool for academic preparation. Students can explore books related to their upcoming coursework or delve into genres that spark their interest. This not only enhances their reading skills but also broadens their knowledge base.

4. Develop study habits
With free time, students can experiment with different study techniques, create a study schedule and set up a dedicated study space. These habits will be invaluable when the school year begins, helping students manage their time and stay organized.

5. Engage in enrichment activities
Participating in enrichment activities can be both fun and educational. Students might consider attending workshops or taking online courses related to their interests. Whether it’s coding, art, sports or another field, these activities can help students develop new skills and interests.

6. Work on time management
Learning to manage time effectively is a crucial skill for academic success. Students can practice this by developing a schedule that balances relaxation with productivity. Setting aside specific times for study, leisure and chores can help them establish a routine that will benefit them during the school year.

7. Practice self-care
Preparing for the school year also involves taking care of oneself. Students should focus on maintaining a healthy balance between work and play, ensuring they get adequate rest, eat well and stay active. Self-care practices, like mindfulness or exercise, can improve overall well-being and readiness for the upcoming challenges.

8. Explore future interests
Having free time is great for students to explore their future interests. Whether it’s through internships, volunteer work, or job shadowing, gaining experience in areas they are passionate about can provide valuable insights and help them make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.

9. Connect with peers
Reconnecting with classmates or making new friends in the last weeks of summer can ease the transition back to school. Students can participate in community events, join study groups or engage in online forums related to their interests. Building these connections can foster a supportive network that enhances their school experience.

10. Organize and plan
Getting organized before the school year starts can make a big difference. Students can prepare by organizing their study materials, setting up their backpack and ensuring they have all the necessary supplies. Planning ahead for school projects or extracurricular activities can also reduce stress when the new year begins.

The end of summer offers a valuable opportunity for students to prepare for the upcoming school year in a way that balances productivity with relaxation. By setting goals, reviewing academic material, developing study habits and engaging in enriching activities, students can enter the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm. A well-prepared student is not only ready for academic challenges but also equipped to enjoy a successful and fulfilling year ahead.

Published July 31, 2024

One million Floridians have been disenrolled from Medicaid since 2023

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(The Center Square) — Data from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) shows over 1 million Floridians were disenrolled from Medicaid since 2023, primarily for administrative reasons.

As of July 12, over 24 million U.S residents have been disenrolled from Medicaid.

The federal government asked states to provide continuous Medicaid coverage to those enrolled during the COVID-19 pandemic, even if their circumstances changed, making them ineligible for coverage.

(Spotmatik/Getty)

Since the pandemic came to an end, Medicaid allowed a year for states to transition back to normal operations. Florida began unwinding Medicaid enrollments in 2023.

According to KFF’s Medicaid Enrollment and Unwinding Tracker, Florida had 1.9 million residents disenrolled from coverage, while 3.1 million have had coverage renewed. Data shows around 64% were terminated for procedural reasons, while 36% of Floridians were found to be ineligible.

Before sending a renewal form or requiring documentation from an enrollee, federal rules specify that states are required to complete administrative renewals, also known as ex parte, to verify ongoing eligibility using available data.

In Florida, 32% of enrollees had coverage renewed through ex parte, while the remaining 68% had Medicaid coverage renewed through a renewal form. Net Medicaid enrollment declines for Florida from 2023 to July 12 was about 24%.

In the neighboring state of Georgia, approximately 792,000 people were disenrolled, while the state renewed coverage for almost 1 million people.

Alabama disenrolled roughly 369,000 people and renewed coverage for approximately 745,000, while Mississippi disenrolled 148,000 people and renewed coverage for 434,000 others.

The Foundation for Government Accountability released a report on the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act — also known as ObamaCare — to include able-bodied individuals, which will push up spending even further.

“Surging enrollment has led to skyrocketing spending. In 2013, taxpayers spent $406 billion on the Medicaid program,” the report states. “A decade later, total Medicaid spending has more than doubled, reaching nearly $874 billion.

“Medicaid now consumes nearly one-third of states’ non-capital budgets and is growing nearly twice as fast as state tax revenues. Expanding Medicaid in non-expansion states would burst already tight budgets and kick millions off of private insurance.”

Florida is currently a non-expansion state and provides over two million low-income people with health plans with no out-of-pocket premiums or deductibles.

Published July 31, 2024

DeSantis: Florida’s tough-on-crime policies are necessary

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(The Center Square) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis spoke at the Florida Sheriffs’ Association Summer Conference on Wednesday and said the Sunshine State does not allow criminals to run amok.

DeSantis pointed out that in other states, leadership is cutting police resources and are allowing illegal migrants to form criminal gangs that loot businesses with no consequences.

“CNN of all places was investigating illegal aliens that would create criminal rings, and they were stealing and looting a lot of places in New York City,” DeSantis said. “It turned out that when they would get the proceeds of this, they would try to wanna come down to Florida to spend the money. Someone asked them from CNN, why don’t you steal in Florida? They said because in Florida, they put you in jail.”

(ATU Images/Getty)

DeSantis noted that if you want a lower crime rate, you have to have good policies, and if Florida enacted some of the laws seen in states like Illinois, California or New York, law enforcement would be “kneecapped.”

An example is Illinois’ abolishment of cash bail, which he says makes it easier for criminals to get back out on the street. DeSantis said this policy has already been tried and failed in New York.

“Los Angeles defunded police by $175 million, San Francisco has reduced by $120 million for police budget. NYPD has gone a billion due to budget cuts, basically since 2020 that’s happened. Washington D.C., our nation’s capital…homicides up 30%, motor vehicle theft up 103%, robberies up 70% and violent crime up 40%,” DeSantis said.

According to DeSantis, the increasing crime rate in D.C. is reportedly costing over $3 billion annually, and this debt then falls on the taxpayers.

“We’ve seen examples of what’s happened, and we’ve done the opposite in Florida, and we’re better off for doing the opposite in Florida,” DeSantis said.

DeSantis noted that because the state budget is fiscally sound, it allows room to include huge support for law enforcement.

“A lot of these states that are doing poorly, you know they’re not even fiscally solvent as is, and so if anything more happens, they’re gonna be in big big trouble,” DeSantis said.

Meanwhile, Florida is offering recruitment bonuses of up to $5,000 to law enforcement officers who relocate from other states while encouraging veterans and the younger generation to choose law enforcement as a career.

Published July 31, 2024