Around the State:
Governor Rick Scott continues touting jobs he says are coming to Florida as a result of his trade missions. Scott is highlighting new jobs generated from a 2011 trip to Canada, along with a results from a company he recruited from California.
Days after Florida State University and the University of Florida bucked the Governor’s request to hold off on tuition hikes, the state board overseeing them will declare the two schools “preeminent universities”. That “preeminent status” means more state funding for the universities, and for UF—the addition of an online university arm.
And a fired Florida Highway Patrolman is getting his job back after a hearing officer ruled he was wrongfully let go. Charles Swindle could also get back pay, after he successfully argued the state has a longstanding policy of going easy on lawmakers who break the law.
Local Buzz:
Tallahassee is losing a homeless shelter. Haven of Rest has announced its closing its doors after 25 years. The closure has left social service groups scrambling to come up with alternative housing. The move comes as the city’s main homeless shelter on Tennessee Street faces an uncertain future.
Meanwhile, a Florida State University Football player has been charged with second- degree felony sexual assault. FSU wide receiver Greg Dent was released on a $15,000 bond after a Monday morning court appearance. Tallahassee Police say the victim has known Dent since his high school days in Belle Glade, Fl. Dent faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. The FSU senior is on an indefinite suspension.
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