Homeschool Boom in Southwest Florida: Thousands of families are choosing learning at home, with local parents pointing to more flexibility, stronger confidence, and less time boxed in classrooms. Community Support Amid Rising Need: St. Vincent de Paul Society in Punta Gorda says demand for food, clothing and help has climbed sharply, with local data showing many households squeezed between low income and basic costs. Admissions Myths Under Fire: A University of California, Santa Barbara admissions director says students often skip Q&As because they’re embarrassed to ask—or assume they already know how college admissions works. School Funding Vote: Osceola County commissioners approved a November ballot referendum that would add a temporary one-mill property tax to protect teachers, safety, and arts/music/athletics. Luxury Real Estate Trend: Florida’s branded residences keep expanding, from Porsche-style design to “brand experience” living that blurs housing and marketing. Immigration Detention Scrutiny: Sen. Dick Durbin is pushing for a Senate Judiciary hearing after reports of harsh conditions at the Dilley ICE facility. Caregivers Prepare for Disasters: Highlands County hosted a workshop urging caregivers to plan for their own needs too, including transport, meds, and special-needs shelter options. Dessert Culture in Cape Coral: Ice Sssscreamin’ opened a second location, leaning into viral TikTok-style sweets and family-friendly vibes. Legal Mentoring for Florida Lawyers: The Florida Bar’s Counsel to Counsel is opening registration for its 2026-27 mentoring cycle. Space & Local Events: NASA is bringing Artemis II celebration programming to the Cerritos Center, with crew highlights and Q&A. Privacy and Surveillance Debate: Taylor County residents questioned Flock camera use, as officials clarified who owns the devices and what they’re used for. Arts & Community Connections: A Puerto Rico “CLE in Paradise” program brought Florida Hispanic Bar members into federal court culture and practice through hands-on visits and discussions. Sports & Identity: Florida A&M football begins shells practice as Coach Quinn Gray focuses on building team identity and shared stories.