Python Challenge Win: Tom Rahill, founder of the veterans-focused nonprofit Swamp Apes, used electronic bicycles to reach deeper into Everglades National Park and won the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, removing 96 Burmese pythons for the $10,000 grand prize. Veterans to Trucking Jobs: A Florida-linked trucking initiative, Freedom Haulers, is pitching a faster path for veterans to get commercial driver’s licenses and fill CDL roles. Police Surveillance Fight: Flock Safety is losing municipal contracts as cities cite privacy and data governance concerns; in Florida, St. Petersburg’s Flock cameras have faced vandalism amid ongoing debate over license plate reader use. Local Elections & Governance: Brevard voters are preparing for the Aug. 18 primary, with reminders on Florida’s closed primary rules and how the governor/lieutenant governor “one choice” works. Land Use Policy: House Bill 399 would change how local governments approve zoning and development, including new rules that generally require manufactured/modular homes be allowed where site-built homes are. Courts & Money: A court ordered a forensic review of $6.7M in disputed Conch & Coconut revenue tied to a Bahamas tourism business involving a Florida corporation. Back to School & Nonprofits: South Florida nonprofits are helping families prepare for back-to-school season, as school starts and costs rise. Civil Rights in Florida: Hamburger Mary’s Orlando says it will appeal a federal ruling allowing Florida to enforce limits on minors attending drag performances. Tech in Transportation: Gov. DeSantis announced Florida will become a national hub for testing ultralight electric aircraft, with a Polk County track slated for end-of-year testing. Property Taxes: Florida’s property tax amendment is again in the spotlight, with questions about funding impacts for first responders and potential court challenges.