Florida's Commission on Ethics today found probable cause to begin an investigation into possible state ethics violations by former Tallahassee mayor and Democratic candidate for Florida governor Andrew Gillum. Probable cause does NOT mean Gillum is guilty, rather it allows the commission to investigate the four issues brought before it. Robbie Gaffney was at today’s commission proceeding and files this report.
Florida Secretary of State Mike Ertel (er-TELL) resigned after the Tallahassee Democrat published pictures of him in black face from years ago. As Shawn Mulcahy reports, Jennifer Kennedy is serving in the interim.
Authorities have confirmed the name of a fourth woman killed during that attack. The Highlands County Sheriff's Office said in a Facebook post Friday that 31-year-old Jessica Eileen Noreen Montague of Avon Park died Wednesday at the SunTrust branch in Sebring. Montague was one of four bank employees killed, along with one customer. Sheriff's Office spokesman Scott Dressel said a fifth bank employee was in a back breakroom when the attack began. He said the employee ran out a back door after hearing gunshots and also contacted law enforcement. Stephanie Colombini visited Sebring and says the people there never thought this could happen to them.
Although not very large in terms of geographic spread, Hurricane Michael brought a powerful blow to the panhandle. Since, communities in the target area have been struggling to find funds to pay for the debris cleanup, even with help from the federal government. As Blaise Gainey reports the announcement that the feds will be providing more funding has removed some of the burden on local governments.
Discussions concerning hot topics in Florida public education are underway ahead of the coming Legislative Session, from school safety to leadership positions. Ryan Dailey gives a look back at this week’s developments.
Lawmakers are being asked to consider two competing proposals surrounding access to dental care. One would allow mid-level practitioners to be licensed, while the other would provide incentives to would-be dentists. Florida Public Radio’s Gina Jordan reports.