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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! 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This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! 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"/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; 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As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its 2025 legislative priorities, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.
Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the 2025 Community Challenge Grant designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.
Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool to find a site near you.
So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!
This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the AARP Florida page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.
Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET
Bay County Sheriffs Office
Panama City, FL
Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET
Eventive
Online Event
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.
Don't miss out, join today and save!
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Valentines Day background with hearts bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about" name="description"/> <meta content="Message, from, Jeff, Welcome, February" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/a-message-from-jeff" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/a-message-from-jeff-welcome-to-february-fl-2025-01-31.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! "/> <meta property="og:description" content="As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9b16894/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5760x3703+0+69/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fba%2F9b%2F0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64%2Fgettyimages-475699776.jpg"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 01/31/25 by <b>Jeff Johnson</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" data-hide-credits data-hide-caption> <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/ba/9b/0b8dbbd94b3d8f425d2a17248a64/gettyimages-475699776.jpg" alt="Valentines Day background with Red heart" width="5760" height="3840"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">Valentines Day background with hearts</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">bernie_photo/Getty Images/iStockphoto</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>As we step into a new month, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the pressing issues and opportunities that could impact your life and community. This month brings a wealth of important updates, particularly for older Floridians, as the 2025 Florida Legislative Session is approaching. AARP Florida released its <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/florida/aarp-florida-shares-2025-legislative-priorities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 legislative priorities</u></a></span></span>, emphasizing the importance of accessible housing options for all ages, the need to enhance long-term services and supports, and increase consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteers. Understanding these key issues is crucial for staying engaged and advocating for policies that make a positive difference.<br><br>Additionally, we’re excited to share details about the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>2025 Community Challenge Grant</u></a></span></span> designed to empower individuals and organizations to improve their local communities. Whether it’s enhancing public spaces, supporting essential services, or launching innovative programs, this grant could be the catalyst for meaningful change in your neighborhood.<br><br>Lastly, with tax season in full swing, we wanted to make you aware of the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>AARP Foundation Tax-Aide</u></a></span></span>, which provides tax preparation help to anyone free of charge. The service focuses on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Use the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u> AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool</u></a></span></span> to find a site near you. <br><br>So, as you settle into February, take a moment to dive into these timely topics. Whether you’re interested in staying informed about legislative developments, exploring new opportunities for community improvement, or simply gearing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered. Follow us on social for all the latest news and updates! Let’s make this month a productive and impactful one together!<br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Florida. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank">AARP Florida</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; 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} [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tallahassee</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-fl-prepare-to-care-virtual-workshop-3525-4bntf69nbwx.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-FL-PREPARE-TO-CARE-VIRTUAL-WORKSHOP-3525">AARP FL, Prepare to Care Virtual Workshop (3/5/25)</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-panama-city-fl-c33932.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-BAY-COUNTY-SHERIFFS-OFFICE">AARP Smart Driver™: Bay County Sheriffs Office</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Mar 8, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Bay County Sheriffs Office</p> <p class="loc">Panama City, FL</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-theater-the-barber-of-seville-72nj9ljr8lw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-THEATER-THE-BARBER-OF-SEVILLE">AARP Theater: The Barber of Seville</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Mar 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Eventive</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TALLAHASSEE-FL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TALLAHASSEE-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img style="max-width: 56px; top: 0px; left: -2px; position: relative;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! </title> <meta name="page_title" content="A Message from Jeff: Welcome to February! 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--headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/tallahassee-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Tallahassee, FL</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/tallahassee-fl/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tallahassee-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tallahassee-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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