* PAYNE-in-the-ASSessment of Science: Former state Republican Rep. Bobby Payne, a prominent climate change skeptic, has been appointed by Gov. Ron DisAstrous to the state utility board. So much for greenhouse gas concerns.
* 25%: Percentage by which the state budget has grown since 2019.
* Urban Meyer has been appointed by the governor to the board of trustees of New College of Florida. He owns a home in Sarasota.
BTW, New (Look) College is expanding its athletic footprint. And the newly (mascot) named “Mighty Banyan” even has a new beach volleyball team. Jocks are now called “Banyans.” Remaining old New Schoolers are now referred to as “Novos,” which is Latin for the “New” in New College.
* Fort Lauderdale is looking to plant up to 276,000 trees over the next 15 years. The city’s urban forestry plan calls them “critical infrastructure” for protecting air and water, beautifying property and fostering public health.