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A sea of pumpkins awaits at the Alachua Methodist Church’s 24th Annual Pumpkin Patch, offering a colorful selection of gourds and family-friendly activities throughout October. Visitors can explore unique varieties and enjoy photo ops, all while supporting the church’s mission work.

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CROSS CREEK ‒ Early Monday morning, Dec. 23, 2024, emergency crews from the Cross Creek Fire Department and Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR) responded to a single-vehicle accident on County Road 325.

When crews arrived, they discovered a pickup truck overturned, resting on its roof after rolling multiple times. One individual was trapped inside the wreckage, prompting a coordinated rescue effort. Using hydraulic rescue tools, also known as the “Jaws of Life,” firefighters from ACFR and Cross Creek worked together to safely extricate the occupant.

Photos taken at the scene demonstrate the severity of the incident, showing firefighters and first responders working diligently under nighttime conditions. The overturned vehicle is surrounded by debris, emphasizing the violent nature of the crash. Emergency personnel can be seen stabilizing the truck and carefully preparing to extract the trapped individual.

Once freed, the occupant was transported to a local hospital by ACFR for medical treatment. Their condition has not yet been released.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is currently investigating the cause of the crash.

In response to the incident, ACFR issued a seasonal safety reminder to the public: “Drive with care during this holiday season and please remember to move over for emergency vehicles in the roadway.

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HIGH SPRINGS – An investigation was launched at 11:40 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, after an adult female shopper at Bealls Outlet in High Springs located at 20201 N. U.S. Highway 441, Unit 10, reported an alarming incident. While using a fitting room, the victim observed a recording device being extended above the partition by an individual in the neighboring stall, who began filming her as she undressed.

The victim immediately yelled at the offender and attempted to confront him, but he fled the store on foot. Witnesses later observed the suspect leaving the area.

Officers from the High Springs Police Department (HSPD) acted promptly, employing advanced investigative techniques to identify and locate the suspect. Within hours, they apprehended 42-year-old John David Mills of Gainesville without further incident.

This was not the first allegation of video voyeurism against Mills. A similar incident occurred on Oct. 14, 2024, at approximately 3:20 p.m. at Ross Dress for Less at 2643 N.W. 13th Street, Gainesville. In that case, a female victim noticed a cellphone camera protruding from a hole in the cardboard separator above the metal dividing wall in the fitting rooms.

The victim immediately left the fitting room and reported the incident to her mother, who alerted store employees. Mills reportedly walked toward the front of the store as the victim’s mother took several photos of him, as well as of the silver Infiniti he drove away in.

Gainesville Police Department (GPD) detectives identified Mills as the suspect. Both the victim and her mother positively identified him in a photo lineup. Investigators also confirmed that the silver Infiniti seen at the Ross location was registered in Mills’ name.

Mills, a registered sex offender, has a prior conviction for recording video of an undressed minor in Virginia in 2018. He is classified as a Sexual Offender in Florida and has a documented history of similar offenses.

In the High Springs case, Mills has been charged with video voyeurism of a victim over 19 years old, a second or subsequent offense under Florida law. Following his arrest, Judge Kristine Van Vorst added $150,000 bail to his existing bail, bringing the total to $300,000.

“This arrest highlights the swift action and dedication of our officers in protecting the community and holding offenders accountable,” said High Springs Police Chief Antoine Sheppard. “We commend the victim for their quick thinking and bravery in reporting the incident, which enabled us to respond promptly.”

The High Springs Police Department continues to investigate this case and encourages anyone with additional information to contact Detective T. Taylor or their local law enforcement agency.

Mills’ actions have raised concerns about the recurrence of similar offenses, and additional charges may be filed as investigations unfold.

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HIGH SPRINGS – At the Dec. 12, 2024, City Commission Meeting, City Manager Jeremy Marshall presented a plan for allocating the remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, outlining a list of prioritized projects aimed at improving city infrastructure, public services, and safety. After reviewing the proposed expenditures and holding discussions, Commissioners approved adjustments to the priority list.

ARPA was signed into law in March 2021 as part of the federal government’s response to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. ARPA allocated $1.9 trillion in relief funding nationwide, with $350 billion specifically designated for state, local, and tribal governments to address revenue shortfalls, infrastructure needs, and community recovery projects.

Cities like High Springs received ARPA funds to invest in essential services, public health initiatives, and infrastructure improvements that promote long-term community resilience. High Springs was awarded $3,094,274 under the program.

As of Sept. 30, 2024, the City of High Springs had spent $1,956,980 of its ARPA allocation. A portion of the funds—$250,000—has been reserved for mold remediation at the fire station, and another $150,000 has been set aside for the City Manager’s Contingency Fund to address unforeseen needs. This leaves a remaining balance of $737,294 for allocation.

Marshall, working with City department heads, presented a list of 16 prioritized projects for Commission review and approval. The top five priorities included a fire truck purchase, land development code updates, lift station refurbishment, safety measures at the police department and a lift station remote communications system.

Fire truck purchase – $125,000 to pay for the fire truck outright, avoiding financing costs and reducing the city’s debt burden.

Land Development Code update – $180,000 for a necessary update to ensure zoning and development regulations reflect current city growth and infrastructure needs.

Refurbishment of two lift stations – $70,000 to improve wastewater management and infrastructure reliability.

Bulletproof glass at police department front desk – $8,000 to enhance safety and allow the front desk to remain open for public access.

SCADA Communication System for lift stations – $40,000 for implementation of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor and manage lift stations remotely.

Following approximately 30 minutes of discussion, Commissioners made several changes to the proposed list.

Requested replacement vehicle funds for Parks & Recreation was reduced from $30,000 to $20,000, new chairs was reduced from $5,000 to $4,000, and a city parking study was reduced from $47,294 to $10,000, with the remainder likely to be funded by the City of High Springs Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

Added from the alternative projects list for $48,294 was a Vacuum Excavator Trailer, with the balance of its funding to come from another source. The vacuum excavator trailer, a piece of equipment used for digging and maintenance work, received strong support from Marshall, who emphasized its importance for City operations.

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NEWBERRY ‒ At its Dec. 9, 2024, the Newberry City Commission heard updates about a road maintenance program. Peter Napoli of Stantec presented an overview of a proposed Road Maintenance Assessment Program in response to the Commission’s request during the FY 2025 budget process. Napoli outlined how non-ad valorem special assessments could generate revenue to maintain and improve roads and other infrastructure.

Napoli detailed the two-pronged legal test required to impose such assessments. There must be a special benefit and fair apportionment. The special benefit is applicable if the property derives a tangible benefit from the improvements. The fair apportionment benefit requires that the assessment be distributed equitably among the properties receiving the benefit.

Using Newberry’s residential and non-residential property data, Napoli proposed a calculation model. He provided examples of ways in which the properties might benefit from the assessment and subsequent improvement. One assessment calculation listed a benefit of 4,754 assessment units with the total revenue needed for road improvements at $1.325 million. Residential properties were assessed per parcel while non-residential properties were assessed per 1,000 square feet of space. He calculated the amount per parcel and per 1,000 sq. ft. at $278 per year.

Napoli outlined collection methods of direct billing or inclusion on the property tax rolls via the Alachua County Tax Collector. The City will host a workshop on Dec. 16, 2024 to discuss the proposal further. No vote was taken at this meeting.

In other business, the Commission unanimously approved a preliminary plat for Country Way South Phase 2. A Quasi-Judicial public hearing addressed the application by CHW, acting on behalf of Norfleet Properties LLP, to approve construction plans for Phase 2 of the Country Way South subdivision. The 10.22-acre project will feature 35 single-family homes and a common area west of U.S. 27/State Road 45. Advisory comments accompanying the plat approval included provision of lift station details and compliance with FDOT lighting standards for site and street lighting. Additional comments included resolution of electric design at construction plan approval and inclusion of a perimeter buffer in the construction plan.

After the regular commission meeting, the Commission transitioned into a CRA meeting. CRA Coordinator Uma Sarmistha introduced Chelsea Bakaitis as the new CRA Specialist, highlighting her previous experience.

Sarmistha presented a market analysis by Downtown Strategies, a consultant who was hired to help develop an action plan for Newberry downtown/CRA. Mayor Jordan Marlowe expressed disappointment in the analysis, citing a lack of implementation strategies.

In final business of the evening and by unanimous vote, the Commission authorized the City Manager to offer $101,000 for land along Seaboard Drive. This property is expected to play a key role in future redevelopment initiatives.

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HIGH SPRINGS – On Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, representatives from Cox presented High Springs Police Chief J. Antoine Sheppard with 75 Walmart gift cards, each valued at $50, to support the department’s annual Operation Holiday Cheer initiative. The gift cards will help provide much-needed assistance to local families during the holiday season.3

For many years, the High Springs Police Department has worked with the community to ensure families in need receive extra support through Operation Holiday Cheer. The program collaborates annually with local schools to identify deserving candidates who will benefit from the holiday giving initiative.

This year, the Operation Holiday Cheer team will deliver gifts to families on the morning of Monday, Dec. 23, 2024. Residents can expect to see flashing lights and hear sirens as officers and volunteers make their rounds to brighten the season for local families.

“The Holiday Cheer event will spread holiday cheer to over 50 children and 25 families,” said Chief Sheppard.

Sheppard expressed his gratitude to Cox and the community partners who make the program possible. “We would like to thank Cox and all of our community partners who help us provide support to those families in need,” Sheppard said. “Through these valuable partnerships, we’re able to help so many of our local residents have a magical holiday season.”

In addition to donating gift cards, Cox also went above and beyond by fulfilling the holiday wish list of a local 10-year-old and surprising the child’s mother with a special gift.

“Cox is a family-owned business committed to helping improve the lives of those in our community,” said Aimee Pfannenstiel, Central Florida Market Vice President for Cox. “When we learned of the opportunity to help our neighbors through the High Springs Police Department’s Operation Holiday Cheer, it was an easy yes.”

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ALACHUA ‒ The City of Alachua is set to host its 20th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will take place at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center in Alachua, and promises a vibrant lineup of activities and performances.

Headlining this year’s celebration is none other than Vickie Winans, a renowned six-time Grammy Award nominee. Winans, who has also earned eight Stellar Awards and an NAACP Image Award, will deliver both a soulful musical performance and an inspiring keynote speech. Known for her multifaceted talents as a singer, speaker, comedian, and actress, Winans is expected to bring a unique and dynamic energy to the event.

The celebration will also feature a special return performance by Frantz Emmanuel and an engaging puppet show presented by students from the Music and Arts Program.

“This celebration will be nothing short of spectacular and memorable,” said Carol Richardson, Gainesville’s Cultural Affairs Manager and event committee member. “With the addition of Vickie Winans this year, you will not want to miss this celebration.”

As tradition, the event will conclude with a community meal, offering an opportunity for attendees to come together, reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, and celebrate as a unified community.

“Our Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebrations are always such a special time, and they get better and better each year,” said Mayor Gib Coerper. “I cannot think of a better way to celebrate Dr. King than gathering with the Good Life Community to experience awesome talent like Mr. Emmanuel and Ms. Winans.”

This milestone celebration promises to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while fostering community spirit and inspiration. All are encouraged to attend. Legacy Park is located at 15400 Peggy Road, Alachua.

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ALACHUA ‒ In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destructive landfall, Waste Pro, Fishin’ For Vision, and other organizations came together to deliver essential aid and comfort to the residents of Steinhatchee. The community support effort, spearheaded by the Gainesville-based nonprofit Fishin’ For Vision, provided residents with a trailer full of supplies, as well as meals prepared by Cowboyz Catering.

Waste Pro’s Regional Government Relations Directors, Loyd Childree and Dayna Williams, along with Fanning Springs Division Manager Trip Lancaster, were on-site to assist with the relief effort, which included distributing toiletries, towels, cleaning supplies, baby items, and clothing. Hundreds of residents gathered to receive supplies and enjoy hot meals, with Cowboyz Catering providing breakfast and lunch for over 300 people.

Dayna Williams, Waste Pro’s Director of Government Relations for North Central Florida, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the community. “This is what we do at Waste Pro; we care for our communities,” she said. “Despite the devastation to several of our facilities and some of our team members suffering loss, we were determined to get out into the community and lend a hand where we could. It’s a privilege to give these folks a warm meal and show we care.”

Hurricane Helene, which made landfall near Perry, Florida, on Sept. 26, 2024, struck the Big Bend region with sustained winds reaching 140 mph. The storm's impact was far-reaching, causing severe flooding and tornado outbreaks across western North Carolina, East Tennessee, and southwestern Virginia. As of Oct. 12, the death toll had reached 252, with many survivors left to rebuild their lives in the storm's aftermath.

Steinhatchee was among the hardest-hit areas, with homes and businesses left in ruins and many still without power and water. The town’s remote location adds challenges to relief efforts, as neighboring communities are miles away and access is limited.

Fishin’ For Vision, founded by Dylan Klein at age 15, played a vital role in the relief effort. Diagnosed with Cone dystrophy—a currently incurable condition that impacts vision—Dylan Klein chose to turn his experience into a mission to help others. Through Fishin’ For Vision, he and his family have worked to support the Florida Kidsight Foundation, which provides scholarships and assistance to children with vision needs.

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ALACHUA ‒ With the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, flooding has made several Florida rivers unsafe for normal navigation, necessitating restrictions like Idle Speed/No Wake zones and temporary closures. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is monitoring the situation.

The agency says that the public's cooperation with safety guidelines is crucial for minimizing risks. High river levels not only increase the risk of swift currents but can also conceal various underwater hazards. Submerged debris, changes to river channels, and altered landscapes are among the dangers that boaters might encounter during floods. The FWC advises extreme caution and recommends that individuals avoid unnecessary travel on these affected waterways until conditions improve.

FWC is alerting the public about widespread flooding across several rivers in Florida, following the impacts of Hurricane Milton. The affected waterways include the Suwannee/Santa Fe, St. Johns, and Withlacoochee rivers, where rising waters have led to the implementation of various safety measures to ensure public safety. By staying informed and adhering to these measures, boaters can help ensure their safety and that of others during this challenging period.

As flood levels increase, specific areas along these rivers have triggered the enforcement of Idle Speed/No Wake zones. These zones come into effect when water levels, monitored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauges, reach critical points. Boaters within these designated zones are required to reduce their speed to idle, minimizing wakes that could pose additional hazards during these flood conditions.

The establishment of Idle Speed/No Wake zones is critical for protecting both the natural environment and the safety of individuals navigating these waters. Compliance with these restrictions helps reduce the risk of accidents due to submerged obstacles and prevents additional stress on already vulnerable riverbanks and flood-prone areas.

In response to extreme flooding conditions, parts of the Withlacoochee River have been temporarily closed to all vessel traffic. This measure is aimed at ensuring public safety as the river's rising levels have made navigation particularly hazardous. Submerged hazards, swift currents, and floating debris pose significant dangers in these conditions, making travel on these river segments unsafe.

Boaters are strongly advised to avoid these closed sections until water levels subside and conditions return to normal. The FWC emphasizes that this precaution is necessary to prevent accidents and injuries during this period of heightened risk.

The FWC urges all boaters and river users to stay updated on current river conditions, including any changes to restrictions and closures. To access real-time information on Idle Speed/No Wake zones, river closures, and other safety updates, individuals can visit MyFWC.com/Boating. By selecting “Waterway Management” and clicking on the “Alert!” banner at the top of the page, boaters can stay informed about the latest developments.

FWC Boating and Waterways Section Leader Maj. Bill Holcomb stressed the importance of safety during this time: “Safety is our top priority. We are working closely with local officials and monitoring water levels to make adjustments as conditions change. We ask all boaters to respect these temporary restrictions and stay alert to any updates as the situation evolves.”

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STEINHATCHEE, FLA - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $1,000,000 in funding from the Florida Disaster Fund to the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida to support the rebuilding of fishing and aquaculture infrastructure damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The funding will go toward the rebuilding of boat slips and docks, the repair of fish houses, impacted aquaculture businesses, and other important infrastructure repairs for Florida’s fishing economy across the Big Bend region.
 

"The Big Bend's fishing industry took a direct hit from hurricanes Debby and Helene, and so did the hardworking Floridians who make their living on the water," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "Today’s investments will help to rebuild critical waterside infrastructure and help get Floridians in the fishing and aquaculture industries back to full operations.”

To unlock additional resources from the federal government, Governor DeSantis’ administration also initiated the process of submitting a federal fisheries disaster declaration to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. This declaration request would provide access to federal funding, subject to appropriation, for offshore, nearshore, and inshore fisheries to rebuild. Governor DeSantis requested a similar federal fisheries disaster declaration following Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Idalia. 

Governor DeSantis has also directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to expedite any permits or approvals for businesses impacted on uplands or on the water to ensure the rebuilding of damaged structures is not delayed by bureaucracy.

“Governor DeSantis has a proven track record of helping communities recover quickly and rebuild fully after storms," said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Director Roger Young. “We are grateful for his leadership and support in assisting the fishing industry as it recovers from hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton.”

Additionally, the Governor announced several discounts on fishing and hunting licenses, including lifetime licenses, to get anglers back on the water and provide a boon to the industry that serves them. This includes: 

  • Half-off short-term licenses for Floridians from October 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025, for the annual and five-year multisport licenses for fishing and hunting; and
  • A 50% discount on lifetime sportsman licenses for children up to 17 years of age. 
    • Age 4 or younger - $200 (normally $400)
    • Ages 5 to 12 - $350 (normally $700)
    • Ages 13 to 17 - $500 (normally $1,000)
Additionally, FWC is offering annual salt water and freshwater combo licenses for just $5.

Fishing and Florida are inseparable. Florida leads the nation in the number of saltwater fishing anglers, generating a $9.2 billion impact on the State of Florida’s economy. Additionally, the annual dockside value of commercial fisheries was estimated at $244 million. Today’s announcement will help Florida residents regenerate lost income and rebuild their businesses and infrastructure.

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday that authorities have started criminal proceedings against the owner of the bull terrier found abandoned and tied to a pole on Interstate 75 ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall. The rescued dog was safe with a new foster family.

Newly filed court records explain the mystery about how the dog – which became a celebrity on social media after his rescue during the hurricane – ended up on the roadside in Tampa. 

Its owner was identified in court records as Giovanny Aldama Garcia, 23, of Ruskin, just south of Tampa, facing a felony charge of aggravated cruelty to animals. Aldama Garcia, a solar company employee, did not immediately return phone messages.

He was arrested Monday at his rented home in Ruskin and released early Tuesday on a $2,500 bond from the Hillsborough County Jail. Court records said Aldama Garcia showed up at the county animal shelter in Tampa to try to retrieve his dog one day after it was found abandoned along the interstate. 

“We said you'd be held accountable, and you will be held accountable,” DeSantis said.

Investigators said Aldama Garcia had owned the dog, which he called Jumbo, since it was a puppy and had been trying unsuccessfully to get rid of the dog for weeks. “He could not deal with the dog,” the arrest report said. 

The state attorney, Suzy Lopez, said Tuesday that Trooper had touched the hearts of people across Hillsborough County, and she aimed to protect the county’s most vulnerable citizens, including what she called “four-legged friends.”“The fact that somebody could tie a dog to a pole on the interstate as we were facing a Category 5 hurricane is absolutely impossible for me, as a dog owner and dog-lover [to] imagine,” Lopez said.Court records said Aldama Garcia’s mother, Mabel Garcia Gomez, 53, had stopped their car Wednesday on I-75 during their family’s evacuation to Georgia from heavy rain ahead of the raging hurricane, letting the dog out of the vehicle. Aldama Garcia said he last saw the dog in standing water and left it behind.

Meanwhile, the dog – renamed Trooper in honor of the Florida Highway Patrol officer who rescued him – was safely living with a foster family in the Tallahassee area, according to the county’s Humane Society office. It provided a photograph of what appeared to be a happy, panting dog with a rubber toy between its paws.

Trooper’s new foster family, who wasn’t identified, will have the first opportunity to adopt him if it is a good fit, the Humane Society said. The family was learning about Trooper’s preferences and helping him become comfortable and confident, it said.

Investigators said Aldama Garcia saw photos of the abandoned dog on social media and initially wanted it back, then changed his mind after learning the dog was with a foster family in Leon County. 

“After finding out the dog was being fostered, he surrendered the dog due to someone else giving the dog a better life,” the arrest report said.

The highway patrol said Aldama Garcia’s actions put the dog’s safety unnecessarily at risk. It described him as showing no emotion after learning the dog was still alive.

“Due to the circumstances, and the extreme danger and risk of death caused by the defendant to the dog, the defendant's actions caused excessive unnecessary infliction of pain and suffering to the dog,” court records said. “In addition, the defendant stated he never notified anyone that the dog was left behind on (the) interstate during a hurricane evacuation. The defendant continued driving to Georgia to a safe place.”

The highway patrol found the dog tied to a pole in standing water. The agency posted a video on social media showing the black-and-white dog tied in an area where flooding had water almost covering its legs.

“Do NOT do this to your pets please,” the patrol said.

The highway patrol arranged for the dog to be examined by a veterinarian, then transported it to Leon County, where the Humane Society said in his first few days there he was “incredibly stressed and still decompressing.”.
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This story was produced by Fresh Take Florida, a news service of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. The reporter can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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TALLAHASSEE - The Triple Threat Throwdown played a pivotal role in another successful year to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Catch a Florida Memory program. And it culminated with a prestigious Fishing Kayak Bundle for one lucky angler! Brian Ferreira has been drawn as the Throwdown winner and received a Bonafide P127 fully outfitted with a fishing package from Mustad Fishing and a Safety Bundle from Russ Vorhis-State Farm Insurance.

Brian joined the Catch a Florida Memory program in March of 2020 and has become one of the most prolific anglers to date. During Season 2, Brian logged a record 87 different achievements from March 1 through Sept. 9, making this a well-deserved bonus for an epic season of fishing.

 “Catch a Florida Memory’s Triple Threat Throwdown is just one of the many ways Florida’s saltwater anglers continue to support marine fisheries conservation while creating unforgettable moments and passing on the love of fishing to future generations,” said FWC Commissioner Sonya Rood. “It was an honor to meet our 2024 winner, Brian, and thank him for participating in this exciting and innovative program.”

“The Triple Threat Throwdown remains an innovative and engaging initiative to further marine fisheries awareness and conservation efforts in the state of Florida. Building on the success of last year, we are thrilled by the continued participation and enthusiasm in Season 2,” said Jessica McCawley, Director of the FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management. “We encourage everyone to enjoy the water, create lasting memories and contribute to the conservation of our fisheries ahead of Season 3 in 2025.”

Hoping to get in on the action? Don’t worry! Triple Threat Club status is awarded all year long to anglers who qualify in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs. This means the angler has caught a Saltwater Grand Slam, a Saltwater Reel Big Fish and has submitted at least 10 species from the Saltwater Life List. Triple Threat Club members receive exciting prizes, such as custom fishing apparel, seasonal prizes and entry into exclusive raffles including the Triple Threat Throwdown 2025, which will run from March 1 through Sept. 8. Keep a lookout for more details early next year!

Catch a Florida Memory’s saltwater angler recognition program rewards anglers for their fishing efforts while encouraging them to target a diversity of species. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible for prizes and are encouraged to use proper fish handling techniques.

New to Catch a Florida Memory? Learn more and submit catches at CatchaFloridaMemory.com. Check out the latest catches and see your achievements highlighted by following the Catch a Florida Memory Facebook page, Facebook.com/CatchaFLMemory. View angler catches, stay up to date with the latest news and much more on Instagram and X by following @MyFWC and on Fishbrain by following FWC Saltwater Fishing.

If you have questions about the Catch a Florida Memory program, contact https://catchafloridamemory.com/" target="_blank">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Your purchase of fishing equipment, motorboat fuel and a fishing license supports aquatic education and outreach efforts. Learn more at MyFWC.com/SFR.

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GAINESVILLE – New details emerged Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in the criminal case against a felon accused in between stints in prison of submitting false signatures on a petition supporting a 2022 Florida recreational marijuana initiative.

Colton Edward Brady, 34, of Fayetteville, Georgia, had been hired to collect signatures of registered voters for the petition by a Tallahassee-based political committee, Sensible Florida Inc. The effort – which would have legalized possession of up to one ounce of marijuana – was a precursor to the separate campaign that will put the question about recreational marijuana use on the ballot in November.

Brady has prior felony convictions over the past 14 years for marijuana possession, theft and burglary. As a felon who still owes unpaid court fines, Brady couldn’t add his own name to the effort because he isn’t allowed to vote under Florida law.

Brady, who was released on bond Friday, could not immediately be reached because numbers listed for him were disconnected or did not have voicemails set up. Michael Minardi, chairman of Sensible Florida, did not immediately return voicemail messages to discuss Brady’s employment.

The Florida Supreme Court blocked the 2022 initiative, so it never went to voters.

Brady worked on the marijuana campaign after he was released from state prison in October 2020 and before he was sent back to prison in June 2023 for violating parole after he was accused of stealing a Toyota Camry belonging to his mother, Dana Mabrey, 54, of Tallahassee, according to court records.

Mabrey, his mother, was also implicated in the petition fraud scheme, according to state records. Mabrey worked as a signature-gatherer and submitted names that didn’t check out, the records said. Mabrey, who could not immediately be reached because two phone numbers listed for her were disconnected, has not been arrested or charged with any crime.

Brady was released from prison again in June this year. Investigators in the petition fraud case interviewed him in May when he was still behind bars.

Brady told Florida investigators he was jealous of other petition-gatherers because he wasn’t collecting as many signatures supporting the marijuana initiative, despite approaching people across the Tallahassee area at grocery stores, retail stores and Florida State University’s campus, according to newly available court records in the case.

Brady said he learned during training for signature-gatherers how to use publicly available information to look up names and details of voters in Leon County, and fraudulently submitted their information on the marijuana petitions, the court records said.

In at least one case, he submitted in February 2022 the name of a voter – John Marcus Dodson, 37, of Tallahassee – who had died in September 2020. The county’s elections office noticed the disparity when it sought to confirm in November that all the signatures were those of authentic registered voters. His mother, Mabrey, also submitted Dodson’s name on a petition, the court records said.

At least three others confirmed they never signed the petitions that Brady submitted. “No way,” one of them, Marissa Jefferson, 40, of Tallahassee told investigators.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which announced Brady’s arrest Thursday, said Brady submitted 66 names and signatures in Leon County for the marijuana initiative, and 49 were rejected as invalid. Those were significantly higher rejection rates than the 3.5 percent of rejected signatures from other workers on the campaign, the state said.

Brady was arrested in Georgia on Sept. 5, 2024, and faces eight felony counts for petition fraud, including use of a dead person’s information, submitting false voter registration information and use of personal identification information and false swearing, according to court records. 

This year, state police have recently approached Florida voters at home to verify their signatures for Amendment 4, a similar initiative that would protect abortion rights if approved. Gov. Ron DeSantis defended police actions in a Lake City conference earlier this week.

“Our tolerance for voter fraud in the state of Florida is zero,” DeSantis said. “That's the only thing you can do is to have zero tolerance, and we want everybody to participate, but we can't be in a situation where people are trying to short-circuit the process by submitting invalid petitions.”

DeSantis also criticized the current marijuana amendment for not restricting using marijuana in public and allowing what he called “a weed cartel that is going to benefit a handful of incumbent companies.”

The law enforcement agency said it has charged 17 people with petition fraud of over 34,000 invalidated petitions.

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We want to thank the Alachua County Today community for strongly supporting the Alachua Main Street Harvest Festival this past Sunday.

There were over 200 vendors with all types of products and a record crowd that was amazing from start to finish.  The vendors do a fantastic job of coming early and setting up for a big day and they were rewarded. 

Our 37th Alachua Main Street festival was a resounding success!

Marilyn Vanover

Alachua Business League

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Small municipalities are currently undergoing numerous changes and financial problems. Elected officials often spearhead projects within their cities, but I do not see much of that taking place in my city of Archer. In most cases we have no oversight, follow up or plans. The lack of these brings about project delays affecting the utilization of grants and other resources in the city.

It is a sad thing to see the newly planned Community Center project for the Holly Hills neighborhood going down the drain and grant funding being returned.

Municipalities are grappling with an influx of grant funds aimed at addressing numerous community projects. As someone who has authored and received numerous grants, I can attest that effective leadership is crucial for fund management. The associated reports alone are intricate. This underscores the importance of well -trained municipal managers and staff, including contingency training.

The city manager should be a proficient communicator, hands-on, and proactive, engaging with the community to address the needs. The city manager assumes a leadership role, ensuring task are completed, while the commissioners act as overseers, bridging the gap between politics and administration and executing the laws.

Citizens and residents in many small towns like Archer often refrain from participating in the political process. Attending meetings become futile when the issue affecting you have already transpired, rendering your input belated.

We all contribute taxes to support our cities and understanding how the funds are spent is crucial.

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

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Our small town of High Springs is beloved because its elected leaders have done more things right than wrong over time. Just like with big families, there is rarely unanimous agreement on how issues should be addressed. Issues are not simple, and leaders that let you believe the choices are not hard are fooling you. What usually tells the truth is time.

In the past year, High Springs has received no new grant funding, returned over a million dollars in grants, lost leaders in every major department other than police, while retaining an under qualified finance director. Our mayor and other first-term commissioners have blamed former staff and former elected officials for a range of problems and suddenly the city is portrayed as poor.

For the first time in years, our city is being sued. Current leadership has accepted no responsibility and created a budget, that in the coming year, will repeat many of the mistakes previous commissions had been working for years to fix.

The stage is now set for our community to lose our exceptional Fire Department.  Current commissioners have lowered expectations for what a small-town department can offer.  They have hired leadership with little experience and the slow recovery from the recent storms are an example of what we have lost.

Do you see a pattern?

Luckily, we have two citizens who are willing to step up, accept responsibility, make decisions and guide our growing town to its future.

They have experience in public service; they have training in emergency management, large budgets, and leadership. Sue Weller has felt compelled to return to office because of the intentional mistruths spoken by our mayor.

Ross Ambrose

High Springs Resident

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To fellow High Springs voters:

I have been a resident of High Springs since 1979 with a unique multi view experience of our City's political climate and government.

Back in the 1980s, I worked as a paralegal for the then High Springs City Attorney. Decades later, my husband served on the High Springs Commission and later became City Attorney for High Springs before the City's current legal counsel. I have spent the past 28 years working for a local developer and real estate investor managing both residential apartments and professional commercial properties in the City of High Springs.

Over the decades, I have witnessed Commissions that have operated as a cohesive body following the Charter, working with the City Manager, and conducting City business with thoughtful, well versed and trained leadership. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed Commissions that have been riddled with partisanship, discourse, and lack of training trying to manage staff at City Hall and make decisions outside of the Commission as a whole.

Unfortunately, we are again experiencing this type of local government climate. Our City is in crisis. The turnover rate from the number of employees leaving the City has resulted in great inefficiency in services to our citizens, not to mention the lack of transparency within our government causing many citizens to be uninformed at best or ill-informed at worst.

We need proven, experienced non-partisan leadership, and that is why I am endorsing Sue Weller for Seat #5 for the High Springs City Commission. As many voters know, Sue served on the Commission from 2010 through 2016.

What voters may not know is that Sue has stayed continually engaged in the governance of High Springs. She has served on multiple boards as well as faithfully followed the City Commission meetings live or online. Her depth of knowledge around our Charter and our history regarding planned responsible growth are pluses in a time when there are many gaps in our City's continuity in leadership.

Sue's professionalism and ability to stay neutral while listening to our citizens is refreshing and supportive of the direction we want to take our City.

A vote for Sue Weller provides an opportunity to begin to restore and rebuild the City's reputation and service to our residents; supports a healthy cohesive working environment for City staff; and strongly sends the message that we believe our commissioners should be willing to attend Florida League of Cities training programs for new commissioners as well as continuing education classes for current commissioners.

I personally am grateful that Sue Weller is willing to serve our community again; especially at a time when we so need proven leadership. I love High Springs and I know that we, as voting citizens, can help our City course correct and return to service and civility. Please join me in making sure this opportunity to have Sue Weller back on the Commission is not missed.

Alvalyn Lancaster

High Springs, Florida 32643

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Tim Marden, Alachua County Republican Chairman, seeks to divide us and spew hatred whenever and wherever he can. He recently sent out a letter concerning the upcoming City Commission election in High Springs. Such elections are non-partisan, i.e., the candidates do not list their political affiliations and a candidate’s party affiliation is not listed on the ballot.

Marden tries to create an issue about Precinct 60 voting place being moved from the 1st Methodist Church to the newly named and remodeled Douglas Community Center. He incorrectly states that Ross Ambrose “quietly initiated” such polling change “earlier this year.”

Mr. Ambrose originally brought this proposed change about four years ago. Polling places are supposed to be in the precinct that they represent. The church is not in Precinct 60. The Douglas Community Center is. Ms. Barton [Alachua County Supervisor of Elections], after the recent renovation of the Center, determined that it is now “a suitable location” in Precinct 60, and moved the polling place to the Center.

Marden questions the “last minute” change, but the renovation was finished only about a month ago and the request to move the polling place from the church originated about four years ago. But don’t let facts get in the way if Marden wants to spew hatred.

He writes that Barton has made two changes that directly affect the votes of Republicans. What about those voters (Republican and Democratic, alike) who live in Precinct 60 and have to drive to the church? No, Marden doesn’t’ care about that. In Marden’s mind Barton’s decision is solely to hinder Republican voters.

Lastly, Marden states that voters in Precinct 60 have to be told of the polling change. I don’t know the date that his letter went out, but voters in Precinct 60 have already received such a notice in the mail.

Marden follows up his imagined tirade with directions to vote for Katherine “against” Sue Weller and Judith Jensen against Kim Barton. Such wording only shows that Marden spews hatred, has no knowledge of the facts (or totally avoids them) and wants to spread his hatred to others. As for Sue Weller’s stand on the issues …. Her campaign sign says it all, “No politics, Just issues.”

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, FL 32643

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We wish to express our gratitude to:

Jeremy Marshall, City Manager of High Springs, and his staff for their continued support of the citizens of High Springs during Hurricane Helene.  Public Works, in particular, was out in full force clearing roads and grinder pumps in addition to many other issues.  

Commissioners were out in force to provide assistance to High Springs residents.

Police Chief Shepherd and his officers and staff for their assistance.  We know that they were out in this storm protecting our community.  

Fire Chief Peters and his firefighters and staff for their efforts in keeping our community safe.

Friends and neighbors were out in force with their tractors and other equipment to clear roads for incoming power trucks.  Also checking on each other to see if assistance was needed.  

Everyone was too busy working to post their efforts on social media.  They did what they did because it was the right thing to do.  

We have had a rough time during the past few years and have come a long way in the past year to bring our City into a better place in leadership and financially.  I have personally talked to city staff about morale and it is at its highest.

There is a small group of people who are intent on bringing the City back into their control.  If you do not follow their lead, they will do whatever is necessary to remove you from office or position in city hall.

It is imperative that you vote!  Vote early or request a mail-in ballot! Vote to re-elect Katherine Weitz, our current mayor.  Vote to elect Julie Rawls Tapia-ruano.  Citizens of High Springs are at the forefront of their mission, which includes supporting the City of High Springs.  We need diversity on the five-member board.  Having two police officers on the board would compromise diversity.

Bob & Linda Jones

High Springs, Florida

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The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration is encouraging CEOs of 14 major retail companies to take precautions to prevent worker injuries during Black Friday and the holiday season's other major sales events. Toward that end, OSHA has sent a letter and fact sheet on "Crowd Management Safety Tips for Retailers" to the CEOs.

In 2008, a worker was trampled to death while a mob of shoppers rushed through the doors of a large store to take advantage of an after-Thanksgiving Day Black Friday sales event. The store was not using the kind of crowd management measures recommended in OSHA's fact sheet, which is available online at https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/Crowd_Control.html.

"Crowd-related injuries during special retail sales and promotional events have increased during recent years," said Assistant Secretary for OSHA Dr. David Michaels. "Many of these incidents can be prevented by adopting a crowd management plan, and this fact sheet provides retail employers with guidelines for avoiding injuries during the holiday shopping season."

The fact sheet provides employers with recommended elements for crowd management plans. Plans should include having trained security personnel or police officers on-site, setting up barricades or rope lines for pedestrians and crowd control well in advance of customers arriving at the store, making sure that barricades are set up so that the customers' line does not start right at the entrance of the store, having in place emergency procedures that address potential dangers, and having security personnel or customer service representatives explain approach and entrance procedures to the arriving public.

OSHA also recommends not allowing additional customers to enter the store when it reaches its maximum occupancy level and not blocking or locking exit doors.

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