Hansen’s Disease Watch: Central Florida is seeing a leprosy uptick, with 17 cases statewide so far in 2026 and Volusia reporting two—researchers point to possible links with nine-banded armadillos and urge faster diagnosis to prevent nerve damage. Compassion in Action: Southwest Florida marks one year of its “Compassionate Southwest Florida” effort, hosting a community conversation July 25 to keep kindness moving from idea to local habit. Education Leadership: Gov. Ron DeSantis recommends Dr. Henry Mack for Florida’s next Commissioner of Education, highlighting his experience aligning education with workforce training. Arts & Community Spaces: Vero Beach Museum of Art expansion work continues, with crews testing materials for a storm-surge-aware new “museum in the garden” design. AI in the Classroom: FSU is building an AI ecosystem through multiple vendor partnerships and faculty-led pilots, including tools used for everything from data analysis to mock interviews. Weather & Culture Life: Tropical Depression Two is strengthening toward Tropical Storm Bertha, with Gulf Coast storm surge and heavy rain risks that could disrupt Florida plans.