Have you ever had to read the book “Bowling Alone” by Robert D. Putnam for a civics, poli-sci or psychology class in college? Or have you just heard of it?

The 2000 nonfiction book expands on his 1995 essay exploring the decline of social capital in the United States since the 1950s, illustrated through the drop-off of bowling clubs. For those unaware, social capital refers to the concept of networks and relationships that facilitate the advancement of both individual goals and the collective goals of a group. Things that bring us together as a community. Because let’s be honest: you’re probably more willing to understand someone who shares your interests — a fellow in a book club, fantasy league, church group or running squad — rather than just a co-worker where the only common ground is your job.

And when it comes to social capital or civic health, Florida isn’t looking too hot.

Florida has for years ranked near the bottom nationally for civic health, and according to a new report by Florida Civic Advance (FCA), a statewide nonprofit dedicated to strengthening civic life, Florida is 49th in both volunteering and charitable giving, and 45th for attending public meetings. Not a good look — especially because Florida leads the nation in population growth. Now is not the time to lag behind as we expand in size.

But now is the time to strike, in FCA’s view. “Residents, local elected officials, philanthropic organizations, business and others need to join together to reshape a positive civic future for our neighborhoods, cities, and counties,” said FCA President Jim Murley.

One of the primary factors contributing to low participation in civic activities is a lack of trust in institutions and organizations, as well as a general lack of awareness of local events and issues. But don’t lose faith. There’s one silver lining.

According to FCA statistics, Floridians are on par with the national average when it comes to being on good terms with neighbors, doing favors like lending sugar, or just stopping for a friendly conversation. That’s the launching point. Bonds built between neighbors can lead to volunteering, community engagement, and ultimately a deeper sense of pride in civic life.

And it all can start with a simple, “Hey, neighbor!”

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has warned of an “epidemic of loneliness.” Does that come from the fact that we don’t go to bowling clubs anymore, as Putnam suggests indirectly? Or is it the product of polarization, misinformation, lack of trust, and the absence of clear starting points for real change — all of which can lead to apathy?

It’s not too late for Floridians. Be nice to your neighbor. Go to that City of Tallahassee event. Enjoy a tailgate even if you aren’t a Nole. These small acts build civic connections. Care about your neighbors, and you may start caring more about what happens to them — and where they live.

Ranking 49th in civic health isn’t what Floridians deserve. And as the state grows — with more people moving in from California and Arizona — don’t give up on the civic process.

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Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida’s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout, Andrew Powell and the staff of Florida Politics.

But first, the “Takeaway 5” — the Top 5 stories from the week that was:

—Take 5 —

Open carry — A panel of appellate Judges has ruled that any restrictions on the open carry of firearms in Florida are unconstitutional. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier signaled his office supports the ruling and will not appeal the decision to the Florida Supreme Court. Of note, Gov. Ron DeSantis in recent years has urged the Legislature to pass an open carry law, including as recently as this week. But the Legislature has been reluctant. It did pass a “permitless carry” bill that eliminated a requirement to obtain a license for concealed carry of a weapon, legislation the Governor signed in 2023.

Bold — The state is now in charge of an Everglades restoration project at the Blue Shanty Flow Way to pump large amounts of clean water south across the Tamiami Trail and into Florida Bay, DeSantis announced. “We understand how important clean water is to the lifeblood of the state of Florida — not just in terms of the aquifer that provides water to millions of people in Southern Florida, but also the way that it impacts Florida’s economy and Florida’s culture,” DeSantis said at a news conference. “We knew that there was a need to take action, and we needed to be bold. We needed to be swift.” Under an agreement reached this Summer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the state can take the lead on a restoration project for the Blue Shanty Flow Way.

Thoughts and prayers — Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk has died after being shot at an event at a Utah college, President Donald Trump announced. “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife, Erika and family. Charlie, we love you!” Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters, a Sarasota Republican, was among those grieving the loss. “Charlie Kirk was a father, husband, and dedicated patriot who spent his life defending conservative values and inspiring young Americans. Our hearts break for his wife, children, loved ones, and countless supporters across the country,” Gruters said in a statement.

Back to court — Potential jurors on Tuesday returned for a second day of screening in the trial of a man charged with trying to assassinate Trump while he played golf last year in South Florida. Potential jurors being selected for the trial of Ryan Routh were asked whether they had hardships that would prevent them from serving on the jury and if they could adhere to the presumption of innocence for the defendant. Routh’s trial begins nearly a year after prosecutors say a U.S. Secret Service agent thwarted Routh’s attempt to shoot the Republican presidential nominee. Routh, 59, has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer and several firearm violations.

No intervention — A Miami-Dade judge is refusing to intervene in a bitter governance battle at Florida Memorial University (FMU), ruling that the internal dispute over its Board of Trustees leadership and the appointment of a permanent President does not meet the legal threshold for emergency relief. Judge Javier Enriquez of the 11th Judicial Circuit tossed out a lawsuit by the Board’s former interim Chair, Brandon Dumas, which sought a temporary restraining order and injunction to block actions taken by trustees aligned with Chair Walter Weatherington.

— 2nd Amendment activities —

With Floridians facing problems like inflation, tariffs, natural disasters, and book bans, what better way to bring us all together than … guns?

This week in Plant City, DeSantis announced a new sales tax holiday running Sept. 8 through Dec. 31. Dubbed the “Florida Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday,” it also folds in several sportsman initiatives meant to save residents money.

“We’re committed to helping Floridians keep more of their hard-earned money, and the Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday is one way to do that. Florida is a great state for outdoor adventure and exercising your Second Amendment rights, and we’re working to keep it that way,” DeSantis said.

The holiday suspends sales tax collections on items for hunting, fishing, and camping — including ammunition, bows, crossbows, firearms, and accessories such as holsters, sights, stocks, and cleaning kits.

With mass shootings like Parkland and Pulse in the state’s recent memory, the optics of this holiday are questionable. But if there’s profit to be made off a “given right,” the NRA won’t complain.

“Florida leads the nation in protecting freedom, family, and tradition,” said Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. “This 2nd Amendment Sales Tax Holiday delivers real tax relief for families and ensures Floridians can pass down our values to the next generation.”

Bass Pro is waiting. Happy shopping, hunting — and saving with your bucks.

— So judgy —

The 46th Governor of Florida had a busy day ahead of 9/11. On the same day he signed a Patriot Day proclamation, DeSantis announced three judicial appointments.

The new judges are Randall Daugustinis and Benjamin Rich of St. Augustine, and Derek Lewis of Key West.

Daugustinis will serve on the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court, Rich will serve on the St. Johns County Court, and Lewis will serve on the Monroe County Court.

Daugustinis has been an Assistant State Attorney in the 4th Judicial Circuit since 2020 and previously served in the 10th Judicial Circuit. She earned her law degree at Florida Coastal School of Law and will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Warren.

Rich has been an Assistant State Attorney in the 7th Judicial Circuit since 2010 and also worked as an attorney for McCune Law. He fills a vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Blocker.

Lewis, a Nova Southeastern University law graduate, has run his own practice since 2021. He previously served as an Assistant State Attorney in the 17th Judicial Circuit and will fill the vacancy created by the election of Judge Morgan.

Congratulations to the new appointees. May they uphold the Constitution to the best of their ability.

— Predator sentenced —

Justice is being served to a convicted sex trafficker in Florida. Sky Skidmore pleaded guilty to human trafficking, commercial sexual activity, lewd or lascivious battery, promoting a sexual performance by a child, tampering with a victim, and using a two-way device to commit a felony. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison, Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Monday.

After serving his prison term, Skidmore will spend 10 years on sex offender probation.

“Human trafficking and the exploitation of children are among the most heinous crimes imaginable,” Uthmeier said. “This predator stole innocence and tried to silence his victim. The sentence secured by Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Guillermo Vallejo ensures he will never again have the chance to harm a child.”

Authorities said Skidmore, of Wakulla County, attempted to intimidate the victim by sending letters to her, her mother, and his own mother. Those were intercepted by law enforcement.

Investigators also said Skidmore used Facebook and Snapchat to coerce the victim into lewd acts. His arrest in 2024 stemmed from allegations that he trafficked a 15-year-old girl, forcing her into prostitution in Wakulla, Leon, and Bay counties.

— Drug ring dismantled —

An operation led by Attorney General Uthmeier has broken up a drug ring in Palm Beach and Broward counties that was peddling fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone.

“Operation Trackside” resulted in the seizure of five kilograms of narcotics, more than $450,000 in cash, as well as firearms, vehicles, and a boat, Uthmeier announced Tuesday. The 14-month investigation involved multiple state and South Florida law enforcement agencies.

“Drug traffickers who push poison like cocaine and fentanyl into our communities are profiting off the death of Floridians,” Uthmeier said. “In Florida, the consequences are simple — if you buy or sell illicit drugs, our Statewide Prosecutors will ensure you spend a long time behind bars.”

The Boynton Beach Police Department spearheaded the investigation, partnering with the U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Highway Patrol, and more than a half-dozen other local agencies.

— Instagram of the week —

— Clear skies ahead —

Sometimes it feels like we’re one step away from living in The Lorax — forced to buy clean air from a private company. But for now, Florida’s air is holding up.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced this week that the state has met all federal air quality standards for the fifth year in a row, making it the most populous state in the nation to do so. Officials attribute their success to strong monitoring, effective pollution controls, and collaboration with other agencies and private partners.

“Florida’s continued success in meeting federal air quality standards shows that protecting our environment goes hand-in-hand with supporting a strong economy,” DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said. “By working with communities, businesses and partners across the state, we’re keeping our air clean, our residents healthy and our economy thriving.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets six “National Ambient Air Quality Standards” under the Clean Air Act: carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particle pollution, and sulfur dioxide. Florida passed in every category.

The state maintains more than 180 monitors at 90 sites to keep tabs on air quality. Floridians can check daily Air Quality Index conditions here.

Go outside and take a deep, blinker hit of that fresh Florida air.

— Benjamins for businesses —

As the viral clip of the football coach goes: “Tell them to bring me my money.”

This week FloridaCommerce recognized and celebrated an additional $300 million investment for local Florida businesses; all possible due to the “Florida Growth Fund,” an investment mandate by the State Board of Administration (SBA), which is authorized under section 215.47(7) of the Florida Statutes.

Not necessarily Robin Hood, or a giving stranger, but still a nice gesture to Florida business owners, which brings the total amount of capital allocated to Florida companies to $1.5 billion, that’s with a B, through the “Florida Growth Fund.”

“To date, capital committed through the Florida Growth Fund has supported 90 direct investments in Florida businesses and created over 38,000 jobs — this additional investment will only accelerate that momentum, particularly with high-tech startups and entrepreneurs,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.

This is part of a larger strategy to prioritize investments and business for economic growth, making the local economy more competitive, and attracting new business and opportunities both nationally and globally. What’s at the expense of, we can’t tell you.

“Florida’s economy is among the fastest growing in the nation, and it provides attractive opportunities for great investment returns to support our mission of providing financial certainty to our public sector retirees,” said Chris Spencer, the executive director of FloridaCommerce

— G.T.F.O.H.O.As? —

We can all agree on this one: Homeowners Associations can be maddening. Nonsensical rules, board members on a power trip — the whole nine yards. But snapping them out of existence? That’s a heavier lift.

This week, Rep. Juan Carlos Porras floated the idea of filing legislation to abolish HOAs across Florida. That drew a sharp rebuke from the Chief Executive Officers of Management Companies (CEOMC) Executive Director Mark Anderson.

“Banning HOAs is a terrible idea that shifts the costs of roads, infrastructure, and amenities onto taxpayers while eroding property values,” Anderson said.

“Properly managed communities deliver accountability, higher quality of life, and affordability — exactly why polling shows Floridians overwhelmingly value their HOAs. Instead of dismantling a system that works, government should instead focus on strengthening homeowner protections through better enforcement of existing laws.”

A 2024 statewide survey found 65% of Floridians live in an HOA community. Of those, 68% said the rules improve their quality of life (we’d love to see who took that survey). A majority also said they’d opt in to an HOA again if they moved.

So yeah, sorry Rep. Porras. HOAs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon — even if they act like full-blown Karens about when you bring your garbage cans back in.

— The Governor’s apprentices —

If “C’s get degrees” feels like a stretch for the students you know, it’s easy to imagine why the state keeps pouring money into apprenticeships instead.

This week, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced $14.6 million for 34 school districts, colleges, universities, and private training outfits through the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant (PCOG). The program funds registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships across Florida.

“These programs give students the chance to train alongside industry experts and discover their strengths and step confidently into the jobs that drive Florida’s economy forward,” Kamoutsas said.

Recipients include AAR Aircraft Services, Community Health Centers of Pinellas, Miami-Dade College, Orange Technical College, Lee Health, MarineMax, and more. Since its inception, PCOG has awarded $105 million to serve 20,000 participants. This new round will reach another 7,100.

Since its inception, PCOG has awarded $105 million to various academic institutions, serving 20,000 different participants. This batch of funding is set to serve an additional 7,100 participants across the state of Florida to help kick-start their technical or vocational career, ensuring economic success post-graduation, high school or state college.

— Eagle and the Hound —

Say “K-9” and most people picture a German shepherd. Maybe a corgi if you’re feeling cute. But a bloodhound? Droopy ears, soulful eyes — sometimes even drawn with a cigar in old cartoons — these dogs are law enforcement legends.

This week, Tallahassee State College and its Florida Public Safety Institute hosted the 18th annual Bloodhound Scent Tracking Seminar, running Sept. 7–12.

Twenty-seven bloodhound teams from six states — Florida, North Carolina, Texas, Minnesota, Georgia, and Tennessee — competed on FPSI’s 1,500-acre training grounds of woods, wetlands, and urban terrain. Teams included both law enforcement agencies and volunteer search-and-rescue units.

“Bloodhounds play an essential role in ensuring public safety, particularly in locating missing persons and tracking criminal suspects,” said seminar coordinator Stephanie White. “Their unmatched scent-tracking abilities make them one of the most valuable tools we have in time-sensitive situations.”

The seminar also coincided with Florida Missing Children’s Day, held Monday at the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, honoring both current and past cases and the work of those who protect kids across the state.

— Igniting opportunity —

North Florida has long lagged behind in major infrastructure and development, even in its bigger cities like Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Pensacola. Florida State University and Leon County are trying to change that.

This week, FSU and the Leon County Research and Development Authority launched IGNITE Tallahassee, a new 40,000-square-foot startup incubator at Innovation Park.

IGNITE will provide deep-tech ventures with lab space, offices, meeting rooms, and collaborative work areas to help turn bold ideas into businesses. The facility will feature more than 30 labs (some open to the public), 20 offices, and a dozen meeting rooms.

“IGNITE is a valuable asset that will drive opportunities, build connections and ultimately facilitate job creation throughout the North Florida region,” said program director Alissa Costabile. “Florida’s success hinges on how well universities, businesses, and government work together to turn research into opportunity.”

The project is supported by the National Science Foundation’s Accelerating Research Translation program, which helps universities bring research into the real world. One of IGNITE’s early tenants is Piersica, a startup developing next-generation batteries with greater capacity and faster charging.

“IGNITE has been foundational to our growth,” said Claudiu Bucur, Piersica founder and CEO. “It’s enabled us to accelerate our technology and grow our team, all while staying rooted in Tallahassee’s expanding innovation ecosystem.”

IGNITE sits alongside heavyweights like the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and the Center for Advanced Power Systems. Its grand opening is set for Oct. 21 during FSU’s Discovery Days. Learn more here.

— They will ticket ya —

School is back, which means traffic headaches are too — morning backups, afternoon gridlock, and those pesky school-zone speed limits. The Tallahassee Police Department says, “No more Mr. Nice Guy.”

At the start of the year, TPD relaunched its School Zone Speed Enforcement Program to protect students, educators, crossing guards, and families. On Aug. 11, a 30-day grace period began, during which 2,500 warning letters were mailed to violators. That window closed Sept. 11, and now the fines are real.

Violations carry a $100 penalty. School-zone cameras operate throughout the school day, from 30 minutes before breakfast until 30 minutes after dismissal. Reduced speed limits (usually 15–20 mph) apply whenever flashing beacons are on. Cameras are off on weekends, holidays, planning days, and extended breaks.

Yes, slowing down when you’re late is annoying. But it is better to leave 10 minutes earlier than risk a ticket — or worse, a child’s safety. Learn more here.

— The Long Spinal Tap —

It’s been a heavy news week, so let’s talk something a little less polarizing … movies!

Box office projections were way off for “The Conjuring: Last Rites.” Analysts pegged it at $25-40 million, but the horror sequel scared up a stunning $84 million opening. That’s one of the biggest surprises of the year, rivaled only by the Chinese juggernaut “Ne Zha 2.”

In second was a re-release of “Hamilton” (2020), pulling in $10 million for its 10th anniversary. Third place went to “Weapons,” the indie thriller that keeps overperforming, with $5.2 million.

Meanwhile, critics are raving over “The Long Walk,” a Stephen King adaptation directed by Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games films). Starring Cooper Hoffman (Licorice Pizza) and David Jonsson (Rye Lane), the dystopian horror boasts a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. Walk, don’t run, to see this one.

Comedy fans get their turn with “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.” Yes, the band is back together. Rob Reiner, Christopher Guest, and Michael McKean reprise their roles and riffs. Reviews are surprisingly solid: 75% on Rotten Tomatoes. One burning question remains: whatever happened to the little people of Stonehenge?

And for the white-linen crowd: “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” is here, closing out Julian Fellowes’ saga with glowing reviews (91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 98% audience score).

Prefer to stay home? Hulu just dropped three new episodes of “Only Murders in the Building” season five, while HBO’s “Task” — from “Mare of Easttown” creator Brad Inglesby and starring Mark Ruffalo — is already drawing buzz.

Plenty to watch, so little time.

—Wakey, wakey, surf is here! —

OK, wake up. Stop napping and stop dreaming of waves, Gulf Coast friends. It’s been a while, but it appears we are going to have some surf this weekend.

The National Weather Service marine forecast for the northern Gulf Coast is looking mouthwatering this weekend. You read that right; we’re going to have some waves.

A stationary front is drifting out of the region, and in its absence, there are going to be easterly winds ramping up to about 15 knots Saturday and Sunday. That’s going to generate 3 to 5-foot seas in the open Gulf, and that’s going to create some swell this weekend. It’s a safe bet that we’ll see at least thigh-high surf, possibly bumping up to waist-high.

It’s been a while. We know we got skunked along the Gulf while the East Coast snaked all the hurricane swells. But it’s Gulf Coast time, and yep, you better get on it. You’ve earned it. The only issue, given the winds, is that the surf might be a bit choppy. But if the winds stay true east, it will be a crosswind along the surface of the waves.

Stay on top of the scene by checking up-to-the-minute conditions by going to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather buoy 42036 about 112 miles northwest of Tampa. An invaluable resource. Drop in waveriders, this is what you’ve been waiting for.

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