SUMMARY: Florida has awarded over 6,400 bonuses to new law enforcement recruits through its Recruitment Bonus Payment Program, launched in 2022 by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The program offers a $5,000 after-tax bonus to newly employed officers, totaling $43.3 million in distributed funds. More than 1,560 officers from 49 states and territories have relocated to Florida, with many coming from states perceived as anti-police. DeSantis and Attorney General Ashley Moody emphasize Florida’s pro-law enforcement stance, supporting officers with bonuses, housing programs, and legal backing. Florida’s approach counters national trends in defunding law enforcement and prioritizes robust public safety measures.

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SUMMARY: A Florida legislative report revealed that the Military Base Protection Plan, created to buffer military bases, is underutilized and overlaps with other grant programs. Since its 2012 inception, it has only purchased 8.4 acres and two easements. Military commanders often fail to respond due to proposal workload. Other programs, like the Defense Infrastructure Grant, cover similar goals, allocating millions to protect bases. Researchers suggest shutting down or reforming the program to improve engagement and focus on non-conservation lands. The report also reviewed economic and veteran training programs, noting varied success, declining sales tax exemptions, and the need for better performance tracking.

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SUMMARY: As Thanksgiving approaches, office potlucks and holiday gatherings are back, but they come with risks. Experts like Dr. Katherine Schloffer from the University of Maryland Medical Center emphasize the importance of proper food handling, temperature control, and avoiding foodborne illnesses. Food should not be left out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth. To minimize risks, maintain hot foods above 140°F and cold foods below 40°F, and avoid cross-contamination with dedicated utensils. When enjoying leftovers, reheat to at least 165°F to ensure safety.

Amy Kawata shares what you might want to look out for before diving into that shared spread.

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