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A steady stream of visitors packs Main Street as local businesses, artisans and food vendors showcase their offerings at the 2025 Fall Festival. / Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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Retired Alachua City Mayor Gib Coerper (Navy, Ret.), Jackson Gold Star Family, Horace Jenkins (Navy) and Major (Ret.) Charlie Jackson / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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Trick-or-Treaters fill Main Street in Alachua during the city’s annual Halloween celebration, weaving through crowds under festive lights as local businesses hand out candy and families take in the lively holiday atmosphere. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

Families and participants enjoyed the sixth annual pumpkin decorating contest in downtown High Springs on Friday. The event, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe, brought out community members for Halloween fun and treats. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

Gleaming chrome, polished paint, and hometown pride filled Northeast Railroad Avenue as more than 100 cars and motorcycles lined the streets for the High Springs Lions Club’s 4th Annual Bike and Car Show on Oct. 25./Photo special to Alachua County Today

Smiles filled the Legacy Multipurpose Center as volunteers, families, and young athletes gathered for a recent Limitless Legends soccer session, an inclusive sports program founded by Amanda Guevara, a pediatric physical therapist. The group meets monthly to ensure every child — regardless of physical ability — can experience the joy of the game./Photo special to Alachua County Today

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ALACHUA COUNTY - Other than emergency services, most Alachua County government offices will be closed Dec. 24-25, 2025, and Jan. 1, 2026, in observance of the holidays.

 

Curbside Waste Collection/Collection Centers

 Residential curbside collection service for solid waste, recycling, and yard trash will not operate on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1. Collection services for those two weeks will be delayed by one day. Thursday’s collection will take place on Friday, and Friday’s will take place on Saturday.

 Holiday closures for Alachua County Solid Waste offices and facilities:

 Administrative Offices: closed Dec. 24-25, and Jan.1

Rural Collection Centers: closed Dec. 24-25, and Jan.1

Leveda Brown Environmenta Park & Transfer Station: Open Dec. 24, from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.

Hazardous Waste Collection Center: Open Dec. 24, From 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.

 For more information, contact Alachua County Solid Waste and Resources Recovery Director Gus Olmos at 352-338-3233.

 Animal Resources

 Animal Resources (3400 NE 53rd Ave., Gainesville) is closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1. On all other days, the shelter is open during regular hours, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

 Although Animal Resources will be closed, resource officers respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays, to matters affecting public safety and animals in immediate danger. Citizens should dial 911 to report such emergencies.

 During regular hours, Animal Resources can be reached at 352-264-6870. 

Clerk of the Court

 The Office of the Clerk of the Court will be closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan. 1. On all other days, offices will be open during regular hours.

 For more information, contact the Office of the Clerk of the Court at 352-374-3636.

 

Property Appraiser

The Property Appraiser’s Office will be closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan. 1-2. On all other days, offices will be open during regular hours. 

 For more information, contact the Property Appraiser’s Office at 352-374-5230.

 Tax Collector 

The Tax Collector’s Office will be closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan. 1-2. On all other days, offices will be open during regular hours. Appointments are highly encouraged. Please be aware walk-in customers may face long wait times as those with appointments are served first. Visit the Tax Collector website to make an appointment.

 For more information, contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 352-374-5236.

 

Supervisor of Elections

 The Supervisor of Elections Office will be closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan 1. On all other days, offices will be open during regular hours.

 For more information, contact the Supervisor of Elections Office at 352-374-5252.

 Health Department

 The Health Department will be closed for Christmas starting Wednesday, Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. and will reopen on Monday, Dec. 29. For New Year’s, they will be closed starting Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 5 p.m. and reopen on Monday, Jan. 5 at 8 a.m.

 For more information, contact the Alachua County Health Department at 352-334-7900.

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ALACHUA COUNTY – Floyd “Sonny” Tillman, the Gainesville restaurateur whose vision and hospitality grew Sonny’s BBQ into one of the nation’s most recognizable barbecue chains, died Dec. 7, 2025, at age 96, according to a public announcement shared on social media.

Tillman opened the first Sonny’s BBQ in 1968 with what the announcement described as “a singular and powerful vision: to create a place where folks could slow down, gather ’round the table, and enjoy good BBQ with the people who matter the most.” That guiding principle became the foundation of a brand that spread across the Southeast and earned a devoted following for its smoked meats and casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

The statement said Tillman “never lost sight of the principles that guided the restaurant’s founding,” crediting his approach to service and community for helping transform the local Gainesville restaurant into a beloved regional chain.

Married to his wife, Lucille, for more than 70 years, Tillman was remembered as “a devoted family man, a successful entrepreneur with a generous heart,” and someone with “the rare ability to create a true family atmosphere in his restaurants.” His leadership style and personal warmth, the announcement said, extended beyond his immediate family to “the thousands of employees who became part of the Sonny’s family over the decades.”

“We are forever grateful for his vision, his values, and the legacy of bringing people together that he leaves behind,” the statement read.

The announcement encouraged the community to pause in reflection and “spread a little kindness to those around you in his honor.”

Funeral arrangements were not included in the statement.

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ALACHUA – The Chain Hawks Disc Golf Club capped off a banner weekend on Sunday as the 14th Annual Chain Hawk Open wrapped up what organizers described as an “absolute success” — a three-day showcase of athletic skill, community spirit and the growing worldwide enthusiasm for disc golf.

Presented by Dynamic Discs, the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) A-Tier event transformed Alachua Legacy Park fields into a high-energy arena from Friday, Dec. 5, through Sunday, Dec. 7. More than 350 registered competitors made the trip, representing 26 states and five countries, illustrating just how far the tournament’s reputation has spread since its inception. Players ranging from rising amateurs to internationally ranked professionals navigated challenging layouts, shifting weather conditions and the pressure of top-tier play as spectators filled fairway edges to watch the action unfold.

Tournament organizers said they were immensely pleased with the turnout, noting that the growing participation reflects the sport’s accelerating expansion. The event has long been recognized for its welcoming atmosphere, and this year’s championship continued that tradition, elevating the competition while still embracing an inclusive, community-driven environment.

Beyond the scorecards, the tournament strengthened bonds across the disc golf community. Player parties offered competitors and supporters the opportunity to unwind, share stories and build connections that stretch far beyond the final leaderboard. Virtual raffles throughout the weekend helped support the Paul McBeth Foundation, an initiative dedicated to growing disc golf in underserved regions. The fundraising element added purpose to the festivities, reminding attendees that the weekend served not only competitive ambitions but also the broader mission of expanding access to the sport across the globe.

For many participants, the Chain Hawk Open has become a can’t-miss date on the PDGA schedule — known for high-quality course setups, smooth operations and a local club that takes pride in delivering a memorable weekend. This year’s tournament continued that legacy, earning praise from competitors who described the event as one of the best organized and most enjoyable stops on the disc golf calendar.

Organizers said the success of the 2025 event establishes a strong foundation for the future with the Chain Hawks Disc Golf Club already setting its sights on next year’s championship and exploring ways to elevate the experience even further.

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ALACHUA – Local property owners who may be affected by a proposed rail-trail conversion near High Springs will have an opportunity next week to learn whether they qualify for federal compensation. Two public informational meetings organized by the Lewis Rice Law Firm are scheduled in Alachua on Dec. 15 and Dec. 17 to explain how landowners can pursue claims related to the project.

The proposed rail-trail would convert approximately 1.4 miles of a former CSX railroad corridor into a public hiking and biking trail. While the corridor itself has long been part of the rail network, adjoining landowners may have underlying property interests that qualify them for compensation if the corridor is repurposed for recreational use.

According to an announcement, dozens of landowners along the route may have takings claims under the National Trails System Act. When a rail line is formally abandoned and converted into a trail, federal law can trigger what is known as a “rails-to-trails” taking. In many cases around the country, landowners have been able to recover compensation from the federal government for property interests impacted by the conversion.

The upcoming meetings are designed to help residents understand that process. Organizers say the sessions will outline why and how a claim can be filed, how the federal review works, what type of representation is available, and how compensation amounts are determined. The meetings will also include time for attendees to ask questions specific to their property.

The Lewis Rice Law Firm notes that it has hosted sessions previously and recovered compensation for landowners in multiple Florida counties, including Sarasota, Pinellas, Lee, Lake and Miami-Dade.

While the proposed High Springs-area project remains in the planning stage, organizers emphasized the importance of educating landowners early. The conversion process can involve a combination of federal action, local planning and private property rights. Understanding whether a parcel qualifies for compensation — and how to preserve that right — can be time-sensitive.

The meetings are free and open to the public, and property owners do not need to register in advance. Anyone with land adjoining or near the former CSX corridor is encouraged to attend, especially those who are uncertain about whether the conversion would impact their title or access.

Meetings will be held Monday, Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. - Hampton Inn & Suites Alachua I-75, 15930 N.W. 163rd Ln, Alachua and Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.- Legacy Park Recreation Complex, 15400 Peggy Rd, Alachua.

For residents seeking clarity on potential compensation, the sessions aim to provide a straightforward explanation of the rails-to-trails process and what landowners may expect if the proposed trail moves forward.

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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission wrapped up its final meeting of the year on Dec. 8, 2025, moving through a concise agenda that advanced a series of administrative updates and approved more than 200 acres of voluntary annexations. Commissioners Rick Coleman and Tony Mazon were absent.

Commissioners unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, including an amendment to City Manager Jordan Marlowe’s employment contract. The contract changes —initially approved Nov. 10— set a five-year term from Dec. 1, 2025, through Nov. 30, 2030, and establish an annual base salary of $123,600. Marlowe will be eligible for merit increases following annual evaluations and will receive cost-of-living adjustments in line with other city staff. The city will continue contributing 5% of his base salary to a 457 deferred compensation plan. All other contract provisions remain unchanged.

Community Weatherization Coalition presentation

Helen Ward of the Community Weatherization Coalition (CWC) briefed commissioners on the nonprofit’s ongoing work to assist Alachua County residents facing high utility costs. The grassroots coalition — made up of citizens, faith leaders and nonprofit partners — offers home energy tune-ups aimed at reducing water and energy usage. The group can be reached at 352-450-4965 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Annexation approvals

Commissioners unanimously approved Voluntary Annexation No. 40 on first reading, a package representing 11 requests from seven applicants and totaling roughly 227 acres.

“The total number of acres voluntarily annexed into the City in the past year (including these acres) is 430,” Director of Community Development Stacey Hectus said.

Commissioners advanced the following ordinances on first reading:

  • Ordinance 2025-76: Saltzgiver, Philip G. and Helen L., Parcel 02696-010-005
  • Ordinance 2025-77: Pitts, Ory and Shelley, Parcel 01925-003-000
  • Ordinance 2025-78: Wilson, Phillip Charles and Jamie Lee, Parcel 04269-001-000
  • Ordinance 2025-79: Keeney, Susan B., Life Estate, Parcel 04399-004-002
  • Ordinance 2025-81: Barkley, Philip and Jennifer, Parcels 01833-004-000 and 01833-003-001
  • Ordinance 2025-82: Loncala LLC, Wesley Carter / HLT Gilchrist LLC, Parcels 01765-001-000, 01770-000-000, 01772-000-000 and 01772-001-000
  • Ordinance 2025-83: Wood, Charles “Eddie,” Parcel 00491-002-000

Announcements and Updates

City Manager Marlowe announced that trash and recycling collection will run one day later during Christmas and New Year’s weeks.

He also reported significant state funding wins, including a $2.9 million grant for septic-to-sewer projects, a $240,000 grant to relocate a lift station for the upcoming two-way-pair traffic configuration and a $5.6 million jobs growth grant.

Marlowe noted that the city launched its new TextMyGov communication platform earlier that day. “It is a tool that allows us to talk to all of our residents at one time or narrow down to one household to let them know they have a boil water notice,” Marlowe said. “We can send out surveys, narrow down to those folks we have to talk to and gather all kinds of information.”

Phase I enables the city to send messages to residents, while Phase II will allow residents to text the city with questions.

The next Newberry City Commission meeting is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2026.

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TAMPA – A key environmental improvement project in Newberry is moving forward after Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $112 million in statewide water quality and water supply grants on Dec. 3, including $2.9 million for the city’s septic-to-sewer conversion effort.

The funding is part of the state’s Springs Restoration Grant Program, which supports projects designed to improve water quality and restore spring flow. Newberry’s project will replace aging residential septic systems with centralized wastewater service. State officials said the conversion will benefit the Santa Fe River and surrounding springs by reducing nutrient pollution from older septic tanks.

Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said the state’s decisions “are driven by science and long-term stewardship,” noting the funding will “help communities secure reliable water supplies, improve water quality and better respond to environmental challenges.”

The Newberry allocation is among 23 statewide springs restoration projects receiving support this year. Since 2019, Florida has invested $430 million in 147 springs projects, which have collectively reduced nitrogen loads by more than 907,000 pounds annually.

The governor’s announcement also included two additional major funding categories. The state awarded $50 million for 14 alternative water supply projects that will eventually create more than 94 million gallons of new water supply per day. Water management district leaders praised the investments, calling them a long-term strategy for meeting the needs of Florida’s growing population.

Another $12 million will support 16 technology projects aimed at detecting, preventing and mitigating harmful algal blooms. According to the state, the program has expanded the number of vendors and tools available to assist communities during bloom events.

“By investing in emerging technologies, we are expanding our scientific capacity to better understand and manage harmful algal blooms,” said Florida Chief Science Officer Dr. Mark Rains.

For Newberry, the $2.9 million springs restoration grant marks a major step toward reducing environmental impacts from aging septic systems. The city has identified septic-to-sewer conversion as a priority for protecting local waterways, and the new funding positions the project to move forward in the coming year.

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TALLAHASSEE – On Dec. 18, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a total of $311 million in awards to improve infrastructure in 37 Florida communities, which includes 32 awards to rural counties and small cities. These awards come from funding through both the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program, helping communities impacted by the 2023 and 2024 Storms—Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, Milton and the 2024 North Florida Tornadoes and funding from the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF). These awards invest in critical infrastructure needs ranging from utility and transportation improvements to emergency operations resources in these communities—especially supporting critical water infrastructure investments across the state.

“Today in Highlands County, I was proud to announce $311 million in grant awards to improve infrastructure in 37 communities across Florida impacted by the major storms of 2023 and 2024—Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, Milton and the North Florida Tornadoes,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These infrastructure projects will help make Florida more prosperous, more resilient, and better prepared to weather any storms that may come our way.”

“These awards directly support job creation by providing communities with the critical infrastructure to embolden their vision for resiliency and business formation,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Whether it’s upgrading utilities, developing pad ready manufacturing sites, or improving essential services, these projects help small and rural communities attract job creators, bolster their workforce and build a thriving economic future.”

The following communities will receive funds through the 2023 and 2024 Storms Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program:

 
  • Bradford County Board of County Commissioners ($5,951,403) - to structurally reinforce the roadway by adding base, pavement and re-establish the roadside swales by regrading and adding erosion protection.
  • Citrus County Board of County Commissioners ($16,435,400) – to support the replacement of a sanitary sewer system following stormwater intrusion and increased flows caused by the 2023 and 2024 storms. Upgrading these systems will expand capacity and help alleviate long-standing constraints on the county’s ability to grow, supporting future business development.  
  • City of Arcadia 
    o   $14,233,044 – to widen the main stormwater channel in the city,         providing additional storage during storms.  
    o   $8,514,000 – to construct and expand the wastewater treatment plant. 
  • City of Live Oak ($3,895,500) – to construct a 100,000-gallon water storage tank and support a water line loop project.  
  • City of Macclenny ($7,028,700) – to harden and modernize the Ohio Street Water Treatment Plant by upgrading and improving software and equipment. 
  • City of Palatka ($4,932,396) - to harden and expand the capacity of the city’s wastewater treatment plant to handle future wet weather surges. 
  • City of Wauchula ($2,386,500) – to support wastewater system repairs, rehabilitation and floodwater mitigation.  
  • Columbia County Board of County Commissioners ($4,000,000) – to upgrade and harden community shelters in Columbia County.  
  • DeSoto County Board of County Commissioners ($8,000,000) – to construct and install wells and a pumping system to connect the wastewater treatment plant to the disposal wells—providing a more secure, underground disposal method for treated wastewater.  
  • Hardee County Board of County Commissioners ($1,900,000) – to remove vegetative debris from the Peace River Waterway system. 
  • Jacksonville Electric Authority ($20,000,000) – to redirect all wastewater flows to Jacksonville Electric Authority’s existing, reliable wastewater treatment facility.   
  • Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners ($2,720,000) – to rehabilitate, preserve and harden five critical county-owned bridges.  
  • Peace River Watershed Project ($70,000,000) – to support the water infrastructure repair project in Polk County—ensuring restoration and resiliency that manages flood risk and water quality impairment through habitat restoration.  
  • Santa Fe College ($5,000,000) – to repair and upgrade the campus gymnasium due to significant roof damage from the 2023 and 2024 Storms.  
  • Sebring Airport Authority ($3,044,630) – to demolish and replace the existing stormwater system and associated infrastructure at Sebring Regional Airport and Multimodal Logistics Center. 
  • Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners ($38,044,115) – to construct the North Florida Regional Special Needs Emergency Shelter.   
  • Town of Glen St. Mary ($1,339,500) – to harden the wastewater collection system by installing permanent standby generators for the sanitary sewer lift stations.  
  • Town of St. Lucie Village ($12,124,812) – to construct a resilient, centralized potable water supply system for the town’s public use. 
  • Union County Board of County Commissioners ($1,401,750) – to construct a hardened public safety communications tower and upgrade the county’s current emergency dispatch system.  
  • Village of Indiantown  
    o   $9,300,000 – to construct a new Reverse Osmosis water treatment plant, replacing existing outdated systems.  
    o   $7,900,000 – to replace 13,000 linear feet of the main water transmission main for the Village. 

In addition to the $400 million in IRP funding, an allotment of $50 million has been allocated by HUD to eligible counties and municipalities located in 2023 and 2024 Storms' Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) areas affected by Hurricane Ian.

The following communities will receive funds under both Hurricane Ian and the 2023 and 2024 Storms Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program:
 
  • City of Avon Park ($22,248,529) – to assess, evaluate, repair, sleeve or rebuild the facilities at the City of Avon Park’s Sanitary Sewer Collection System.
  • Immokalee Water and Sewer District ($10,823,000) – to improve the existing wastewater treatment plant, addressing hydraulic imbalances, enhancing treatment reliability and providing surge capacity necessary to manage extreme wet-weather inflows.
  • Town of Dundee
    o   $6,008,781 – to harden the town’s sanitary sewer collection system and install monitoring equipment at the town’s wastewater treatment plant. 
    o   $10,257,429 – to repair damage and harden the town’s potable water system.
 
The RIF program supports infrastructure projects that drive job creation, capital investment, and strengthen economies in Rural Areas of Opportunity (RAO), rural counties and rural communities. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026, the Florida Legislature appropriated $17 million for the RIF statewide program and $5 million for the Panhandle-Specific program for a total of $22 million. FloridaCommerce received a record 112 applications requesting more than $195 million in funding during the 2025-2026 RIF application period. Since 2019, the program has awarded more than $110 million in grant funds.

The following communities will receive funds through the Rural Infrastructure Fund Program: 

  • City of Frostproof ($238,991) – to extend an existing water main, designing a 12-inch loop allowing for extension to the area proposed as the Duke Readiness Center. 
  • City of Lake City ($1,788,415) – to replace a hangar at the Lake City Gateway Airport significantly damaged by Hurricane Idalia.  
  • City of Okeechobee ($1,200,000) – to support a construction project aimed at improving public infrastructure, facilitating expansion within an existing industrial site, including the resurfacing of two major roads that provide access to the Okeechobee Commerce Center. 
  • City of Wauchula ($510,000) – to enhance the existing water distribution system by installing approximately 7,100 linear feet of water main, enhancing fire protection along Townsend Street to U.S. Highway 17. 
  • Columbia County Board of County Commissioners ($2,000,000) – to construct an inbound and outbound rail track serving the North Florida Mega Industrial Park.  
  • Hardee County ($250,000) – to build a dewatering facility, reducing long-term disposal costs. 
  • Hardee County Industrial Development Authority ($226,250) – to continue their centralized parking construction, including the relocation of electrical utilities underground. 
  • Keystone Heights Airport Authority ($2,950,450) – to construct a runway extension to Runway 2.   
  • Okeechobee Utility Authority ($1,000,000) – to install pipe and corresponding water mains to connect previously completed water infrastructure. 
  • Putnam County Board of County Commissioners ($3,000,000) – to construct and commission critical public infrastructure at the Central Landfill in Putnam County.  
  • Town of Zolfo Springs ($300,000) – to conduct a comprehensive Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Survey which will identify infiltration and inflow sources and address challenges from power outages, lift station failures and aging infrastructure.  

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TALLAHASSEE – Florida students are invited to take part in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month art and essay contests, celebrating this year’s theme: “Celebrating Florida’s Native American Heritage,” according to an announcement Thursday from the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida.

Native American Heritage Month is observed nationwide each November and serves as a time to acknowledge the cultural, historical and artistic contributions of Native Americans. This year’s contests are designed to encourage students across all grade levels to explore and share stories of Florida’s Native American leaders, artists and historical figures.

“We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I encourage every student to learn about our Native American history and discover the remarkable achievements they made.”

Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo echoed the message, stating, “I am proud to celebrate the culture and heritage of Native Americans who enrich the value of our Nation. During Native American Heritage Month, we honor the many contributions of Native American Floridians.”

Art Contest Details

All Florida students are eligible to participate. Students in grades K–3 may enter the art contest by submitting one original, two-dimensional piece of artwork reflecting this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, with each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.

Essay Contest Details

Students in grades 4–12 may enter the essay contest. Six winners will be chosen—two from each grade level group (4–5, 6–8, 9–12). Each winning essayist will receive a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $200 school-supply gift card. Essays must be written in English, no longer than 500 words, and focus on a Native American Floridian who has had a meaningful impact on the state’s history or culture.

Examples of suggested subjects include Betty Mae Tiger Jumper, the first woman elected Chair of the Seminole Tribe of Florida; Ulele, sometimes referred to as “Florida’s Timucuan Pocahontas”; Osceola, a prominent advocate for Seminole rights in the 1800s; and Noah Billie, a noted Seminole painter.

Excellence in Education Award

The Governor’s Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award is open to all full-time educators in Florida’s elementary, middle and high schools. Four winners will be selected. Nominations may be submitted by teachers, principals, parents, guardians or students. Winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida.

How to Enter

Contest entry forms and educator nomination forms may be submitted online or mailed to:

Volunteer Florida

Native American Heritage Month Committee

1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250

Tallahassee, Florida 32308

All entries must be received by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025. Additional information is available at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced Florida awards $30 million in grant funding to four specialty children’s hospitals in Florida to develop and improve access to clinical trials, advance treatment protocols, and discover cures for childhood cancer. Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Nemour’s Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, and Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville were each awarded $7.5 million.

“Since I became governor, Florida has invested more than $1 billion in cancer research and treatment—a 114% increase. We created the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator program within the Florida Department of Health this year to enhance cancer research throughout Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Four of Florida’s top children’s hospitals have received a total of $30 million in funding for their innovative proposals to help children and adolescents who are fighting cancer. By investing in statewide infrastructure for pediatric cancer initiatives, we aim to eliminate the need for Florida families to travel out of state for potentially life-saving experimental therapies and specialized care.”

The Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator was created in 2025 to further Florida efforts as a leader in cancer research and treatment. The Incubator is funded with $30 million and will focus on pediatric cancer in its first five-year funding cycle. While pediatric cancer accounts for just one percent of cases nationally, Florida’s pediatric cancer population is significant, with the state accounting for six percent of all new pediatric cancer cases in the U.S., thereby impacting thousands of children and families every year.

“Research Incubator investments to advance research, prevention, and treatment for pediatric cancer represents a meaningful step forward in our mission to improve outcomes, strengthen families, and ensure that every child has access to the most advanced care possible right here in Florida,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “I’m deeply grateful to Governor DeSantis for his unwavering leadership and commitment to advancing cancer research in Florida.”

“Thanks to the vision and leadership of First Lady Casey DeSantis, Florida continues to set the national standard for advancing adult and childhood cancer research and care,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A Ladapo. “Through the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator, we’re not only investing in science—we’re investing in hope for children and families across the state.”

The Incubator is part of Florida’s Cancer Connect Collaborative, an innovative model designed to accelerate research, share best practices, and turn data into actionable results. Guided by five pillars—Data, Best Practices, Innovation, Honesty, and Funding—the initiative brings together public and private partners to reshape cancer care delivery.

“Thanks to the leadership of First Lady and Governor DeSantis, Florida continues to make cancer research and treatment a top priority,” said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun Harris. “The Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator is a bold step forward, beginning with pediatric cancer research. We look forward to seeing the strides made among the awardees and the collaboration that will accelerate breakthroughs, improve access to therapies, and offer hope to families across our state.”

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~ 24 of 26 economic development awards will go to small and rural communities ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, FloridaCommerce announced the award of more than $1.5 million through the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) and Competitive Florida Partnership programs. The funding will support 26 Florida communities—including 24 small and rural communities—in developing and implementing plans to drive local economic growth.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to support Floridians in building strong, resilient communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Since 2019, FloridaCommerce has awarded more than $7.6 million through the CPTA program to over 110 communities—empowering many of Florida’s small and rural communities to advance strategic economic initiatives and strengthen their local economies for future growth.”

The CPTA grant program seeks to strengthen communities through resilient, long-term economic development strategies and promotes innovative planning solutions to protect Florida's natural resources. Similarly, the Competitive Florida Partnership program supports communities in developing plans to attract new businesses and create workforce opportunities that promote partnerships, community design and a viable economy.

The following communities will receive funding through the CPTA grant program:

  • Bradford County ($75,000) – to create an Economic Development Strategy, outlining objectives, tactics, resources and marketing to promote county opportunities.
  • Opportunity Florida ($47,575) – to conduct an economic analysis study in the following rural counties: Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Wakulla, North Walton and Washington.
  • Apalachee Regional Planning Council ($74,231.82) – to complete a multi-county Strategic Sites Inventory to prepare for industrial reshoring and business recruitment in Calhoun, Gadsden and Liberty Counties.
  • City of Crystal River ($75,000) – to develop a strategic and economic development plan for the city of Crystal River in Citrus County.
  • City of Keystone Heights ($60,000) – to review and update the comprehensive plan for the city of Keystone Heights in Clay County.
  • DeSoto County ($75,000) – to update the county plan to expand investment and tourism opportunities.
  • Central Florida Regional Planning Council ($75,000) – to create the Heartland Agricultural Land Use Conversion Study to enhance planning, coordination, and resilience in the following counties: DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Okeechobee and Polk.
  • Town of Cross City ($75,000) – to update land development regulations and zoning atlas for the town of Cross City in Dixie County.
  • Town of Horseshoe Beach ($75,000) – to implement Phase II of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, focusing on drainage, housing, and capital projects in Dixie County.
  • Gadsden County ($75,000) – to develop a Strategic Sites Inventory to identify and prepare sites for industrial and manufacturing growth.
  • Glades County ($55,000) – to update land development regulations and create fact sheets, checklists, and revised applications.
  • Hardee County ($60,000) – to create a Mass Casualty Incident and Reunification Plan to strengthen emergency medical response.
  • Town of Sneads ($45,000) – to support the development of a downtown revitalization and development plan for the Sneads "Old Downtown" area in Jackson County.
  • City of Clermont ($50,000) – to update the city plan to guide infrastructure, economic development and tourism strategies for the city of Clermont in Lake County.
  • City of Cedar Key ($75,000) – to advance shoreline and infrastructure protection strategies for the city of Cedar Key in Levy County.
  • Town of Greenville ($48,500) – to conduct a housing analysis and update economic and comprehensive plans for the town of Greenville in Madison County.
  • Village of Indiantown ($74,275) – to finalize the inaugural plan and add an economic development element for the village of Indiantown in Martin County.
  • City of Crestview ($50,000) – to develop a Strategic Economic and Development Plan to assess workforce, land-use assets, and branding, with clear goals and implementation steps for the city of Crestview in Okaloosa County.
  • Okeechobee County ($40,400) – to update the land development code.
  • Town of Loxahatchee Groves ($75,000) – to develop a comprehensive strategy for growth and resilience for the town of Loxahatchee in Palm Beach County.
  • Town of Kenneth City ($40,000) – to create an economic development strategy to strengthen commercial corridors and small businesses for the town of Kenneth City in Pinellas County.
  • City of Fort Meade ($45,000) – to update the Community Redevelopment Plan to assess progress and set future priorities for the city of Fort Meade in Polk County.
  • City of Palatka ($75,000) ­– to advance the Gateway Redevelopment Plan for the former Port Consolidated site, ensuring sustainable reuse for the city of Palatka in Putnam County.
  • Taylor County ($75,000) – to create an Economic Development Strategic Plan.
The following communities will receive funding through the Competitive Florida Partnership grant program:
  • Franklin County ($32,930) – to develop a comprehensive economic development strategy aimed to strengthen the local economy, reduce retail leakage and increase job creation in the commercial sector.
  • Hardee County ($32,930) – to develop a master plan for the county’s Government Center and Resiliency Hub, a facility that will provide support during emergencies, acting as a central point of contact for accessing services, building community, and preparing for and recovering from disruptions.

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~ The following is a press release provided by the University of Florida. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~ 

 

Oct. 19, 2025 — “On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the University, we express our full support for Athletic Director Scott Stricklin and his decision to make a change in the leadership of our football program.

Today’s news underscores our collective, continuing, and uncompromising commitment to a Gators football program that inspires pride across the University community and competes annually for national championships.

We will continue to provide the athletic department with every resource necessary to deliver on that promise.”

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~ The following is a press release provided by the University of Florida. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~

Statement from Athletic Director Scott Stricklin:

Today I met with Coach Napier and informed him that a change in leadership of our football program would best serve the interests of the University of Florida.

On behalf of Gator Nation, I want to sincerely thank Billy and his family for their tireless commitment to the Florida Gators. Billy built a tremendous culture of accountability and growth among the young men he led each day. His organized and detailed approach had a meaningful impact across all levels of our program.

As Coach Napier has often said, this is a results-driven business, and while his influence was positive, it ultimately did not translate into the level of success we expect on the field.

I have named Billy Gonzales as the interim head coach. Coach Gonzales has been a valued member of our program for many years, including being a part of multiple championship teams. He is a Gator through and through. His deep understanding of our culture, our student-athletes, and what it means to represent the University of Florida makes him well-suited to lead our team.

Making this decision during the open date provides our team valuable time to regroup, refocus, and prepare for the challenges ahead. The timing also allows us to conduct a thoughtful, thorough, and well-informed search for our next head coach. We remain fully committed to utilizing every resource available to identify the right leader to guide Gators Football into the future.

I will conduct the search with a high degree of confidentiality to protect the privacy of those involved. The search will focus on the hiring of an elite football coach who will embody the standard we have at the University of Florida, and we will continue to provide all of the necessary resources for that coach, his staff and the players to be successful.

Any time you conduct a head coaching search, especially for a high-profile sport like football or men's basketball, you learn something. The lessons from past experiences will guide us through the work ahead.

Across the University of Florida, there is an unwavering and uncompromising commitment to being the best in everything we do. This includes our athletic department, as evidenced by the fact UF is the only school in the country to win three national championships in both football and men's basketball.

The standards and expectations for Gators football are to win championships-not simply to compete. We exist to win, and will not settle for less.  UF has never been more invested in the success of this football program - elite facilities, robust NIL opportunities and comprehensive support for our student athletes and staff - than we are today.

The University of Florida is a destination - a place where people come to achieve excellence.  With our resources, passionate fan base, and unwavering commitment, we are determined to return Gators football to championship form.  I understand and accept the responsibility to deliver a football program that reflects the greatness of this university and I thank Gator Nation for their continued support as we begin this next chapter together.

Scott Burns
Director of Football Communications
University of Florida Athletic Association
C: (812) 322-5285
FloridaGators.com<http://www.floridagators.com/>

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William Garst HSEveryone taking prescription medications should be aware of essential safety practices. Here are six tips to help ensure you are taking your medicine correctly and safely:

1. Maintain a Comprehensive Medication List

Keep an up-to-date list of everything you take, and share it with every healthcare provider you see (doctors, specialists, dentists, and pharmacists).

  • Include: All prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements.
  • Detail: The name, dosage, how often you take it, and the reason it was prescribed.
  • Why it matters: This is the most crucial step to prevent dangerous drug-to-drug interactions, to ensure you don't accidentally overdose on two products with the same active ingredient, and to help your doctor avoid prescribing medicine you shouldn't take.

2. Know the "Five W's" of Each New Drug

Before you leave the doctor's office or the pharmacy, make sure you know the following for every new prescription:

  • What is the name of the drug and what is it for?
  • When should I take it (e.g., morning, night, with food, on an empty stomach)?
  • What are the most common side effects, and when should I call the doctor?
  • What foods, drinks (like alcohol or grapefruit juice), or other medications should I avoid?
  • Why am I taking this (What is the goal of the therapy)?

3. Take Your Medication Exactly as Prescribed

Consistency is key to the drug's effectiveness and your safety.

  • Follow Directions: Take the exact dose at the exact time(s) specified. Do not skip doses, and never take a larger dose because you think it will work faster.
  • Do Not Stop Early: Finish the full course of a prescription (especially antibiotics), even if you start to feel better. Never stop taking a maintenance drug on your own; always consult your doctor first.
  • Ask Before Modifying: Do not crush, cut, or chew tablets unless your pharmacist or doctor specifically says it is safe, as this can affect how the drug is absorbed or release the medicine too quickly.

4. Use a Single Pharmacy

Whenever possible, fill all your prescriptions at the same pharmacy.

  • Interaction Check: This allows your pharmacist—who is a medication expert—to have a complete and centralized record of your profile and automatically check for potential drug interactions or dosage conflicts.
  • Ask Questions: Your pharmacist is your best resource for practical advice on when and how to take a medication and what common side effects to expect.

5. Store and Dispose of Medication Safely

Improper storage can ruin the drug's effectiveness, and improper disposal can lead to danger.

  • Storage: Keep most medications in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. The bathroom medicine cabinet is often too humid for proper storage.
  • Security: Always store medications, especially controlled substances and pain relievers, in a secure place out of reach and out of sight of children, pets, and visitors.
  • Disposal: Never flush medicine down the toilet or throw it in the trash unless the label specifically instructs you to. Find a drug take-back program or a community disposal site (often at local police departments or pharmacies) for safe disposal of unused or expired drugs.

6. Never Share or Borrow Prescription Medication

Medications are prescribed based on an individual's specific medical condition, weight, allergies, and other concurrent medications.

  • For You Only: Never take medicine prescribed to another person, even if you have the same symptoms. What is helpful for one person could be dangerous or deadly for another.
  • Do Not Share: Never give your prescription to a family member or friend. If you have unused medication, dispose of it safely.

Prosper and be in health.

*     *     *

William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who lives in Alachua, Florida. He is semi-retired and works part time at Lake Butler Hospital in Lake Butler, Florida. William received his pharmacy degree at Auburn University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Colorado University. The Pharmacy Newsletter is a blog where you can find other informative columns. He may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Sept 15 – Oct. 15 is the nationwide celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” reminding us that our nation’s strength comes from the diverse people who call it home and the shared commitment to build a better future together.

From the arts and education to business and public service, Hispanic Floridians continue to enrich every aspect of life in our state. Their leadership, creativity, and dedication exemplify the power of community and the enduring belief that opportunity should be within reach for all.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations’ (FCHR) mission is to promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination by investigating allegations of discrimination in housing, public accommodations, employment, and state whistleblower retaliation as well as educating Floridians about their rights and opportunities. Through our diligent work, we continue to build a Florida where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. For more information or to file a complaint, contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations at (850) 488-7082 or visit www.FCHR.MyFlorida.com.

This month, and throughout the year, we honor the past while inspiring the future, by recognizing the collective heritage that connects us, celebrating the diversity that strengthens us, and reaffirming our commitment to fairness for every Floridian.

Cheyanne Costilla, Executive Director

Florida Commission on Human Relations

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The history of vitamin K is a story of a single discovery that later expanded to include a family of related compounds, each with distinct roles in the body. The journey from initial observation to a detailed understanding of vitamin K1 and William Garst HSK2 spans several decades and involves multiple scientists.

The Initial Discovery of Vitamin K

The story begins in the late 1920s with Danish biochemist Henrik Dam.

  • 1929: Dam was conducting experiments on chickens, feeding them a diet that was deficient in cholesterol and fat. After a few weeks, he noticed that the chickens developed a mysterious bleeding disorder, where their blood was slow to clot.
  • 1935: Dam concluded that a new, fat-soluble vitamin was missing from the chickens' diet. He named this substance “Koagulations-Vitamin,” which is German and Danish for “coagulation vitamin.” This is where the letter “K” comes from.
  • 1939: American biochemist Edward Doisy and his team at St. Louis University isolated and determined the chemical structure of the primary plant-based form of the vitamin, which they named phylloquinone. This substance would later be officially named Vitamin K1.

For their work on the discovery and chemical nature of vitamin K, Dam and Doisy were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1943.

Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

  • Source: From the very beginning, it was clear that the "anti-hemorrhagic" factor came from plant sources, particularly green, leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.
  • Function: Early research, and the Nobel Prize, focused on its essential role in blood coagulation. Vitamin K1 acts as a crucial cofactor for an enzyme that "activates" several clotting factors in the liver, including prothrombin (Factor II), Factor VII, Factor IX, and Factor X. Without this activation, these proteins cannot function properly, leading to uncontrolled bleeding.
  • Modern Understanding: Vitamin K1's role in blood clotting remains its most well-known and clinically important function. It is used medically to treat bleeding disorders, and is routinely given to newborns to prevent a condition called Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB).

Vitamin K2 (Menaquinones)

The story of vitamin K2 is more recent and has led to a re-evaluation of the entire vitamin K family.

  • Discovery of a Second Form: Soon after the discovery of vitamin K1, scientists realized that there was another form of vitamin K. This second form, found in animal products and produced by bacteria, was chemically different. It was named menaquinone and collectively referred to as Vitamin K2. Unlike K1, which has a single chemical structure, K2 is a family of related compounds, designated as MK-4, MK-7, MK-9, etc., based on the length of their side chain.
  • Japanese Fermented Foods: A major breakthrough in the understanding of K2 came from research into the traditional Japanese food natto, a dish of fermented soybeans. Scientists discovered that natto was an incredibly rich source of a long-chain menaquinone, specifically MK-7. This led to a boom in research on K2's health benefits.
  • Beyond Blood Clotting: While K1 is primarily used by the liver for blood coagulation, researchers found that K2 has a different fate in the body. It is preferentially used by other tissues, especially bone and arterial tissues.
  • The “Calcium Paradox”: A key aspect of modern K2 research is its role in “calcium trafficking.” Scientists have discovered that K2 activates proteins like osteocalcin in bones, which helps bind calcium and integrate it into the bone matrix. At the same time, K2 activates Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), a protein that prevents calcium from building up in soft tissues like arteries. This led to the theory that K2 may play a significant role in both bone health (preventing osteoporosis) and cardiovascular health (preventing arterial calcification).

Summary of Key Differences and Modern Research

Feature

Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

Vitamin K2 (Menaquinones)

Primary Source

Green leafy vegetables

Fermented foods (natto, cheese), animal products (egg yolks, some meats), and gut bacteria

Primary Function

Blood coagulation (clotting)

Bone health, cardiovascular health (preventing arterial calcification)

Historical Focus

The first form of the vitamin discovered; initial research focused entirely on this form for its anti-hemorrhagic effects.

A later discovery, with its distinct functions only becoming widely known and studied in the last few decades.

Chemical Structure

A single compound (phylloquinone)

A family of compounds (menaquinones), denoted as MK-4, MK-7, etc.

The history of vitamin K is a testament to how scientific understanding evolves. What began as a single discovery of a “coagulation vitamin” has expanded to encompass a complex family of nutrients with far-reaching effects on human health.

Prosper and be in health.

*     *     *

William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who lives in Alachua, Florida. He is semi-retired and works part time at Lake Butler Hospital in Lake Butler, Florida. William received his pharmacy degree at Auburn University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Colorado University. The Pharmacy Newsletter is a blog where you can find other informative columns. He may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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~ The First Recorded Clinical Trial in 1747 ~

The history of Vitamin C is closely linked to the understanding and eventual conquest of scurvy, a debilitating and often fatal disease that William Garst HSplagued sailors on long voyages for centuries.

Early Observations

As early as the 15th century, it was noted that certain foods, particularly citrus fruits, had a curative effect on scurvy. Vasco da Gama's voyages, for instance, observed this link.

In 1747, James Lind, a British naval surgeon, conducted a controlled experiment demonstrating that citrus fruits effectively prevented scurvy. He compared various treatments among sailors with scurvy and found that only those receiving oranges and lemons recovered. This is perhaps, the first recorded clinical trial.

Despite Lind's groundbreaking work, it took several decades for the British Navy to mandate citrus fruit or juice as a regular provision for sailors, earning them the nickname “limeys.”

The Dawn of Vitamin Research:

In 1912, Casimir Funk introduced the concept of “vitamins” as essential dietary components. The anti-scorbutic factor was soon recognized as a water-soluble substance, initially called “water-soluble C.”

Isolation and Identification:

In 1928, Hungarian scientist Albert Szent-Györgyi isolated a substance from animal adrenal glands, naming it “hexuronic acid.” He suspected it might be the anti-scorbutic factor.

Around the same time, in 1932, American biochemist Charles Glen King also isolated vitamin C in his laboratory and concluded it was the same as Szent-Györgyi's hexuronic acid. There was some dispute over who made the definitive connection first, possibly due to communication delays.

Working independently, Szent-Györgyi and his colleague Joseph Svirbely conducted experiments on guinea pigs (which, like humans, cannot synthesize vitamin C) and proved that hexuronic acid was indeed the anti-scorbutic factor. They renamed it “ascorbic acid,” meaning “anti-scurvy.”

Structural Determination and Synthesis:

In 1933, British chemist Norman Haworth determined the chemical structure of vitamin C. Haworth and Szent-Györgyi jointly proposed the name “ascorbic acid”

Both Szent-Györgyi and Haworth were awarded Nobel Prizes in 1937 for their work on vitamin C. Szent-Györgyi received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discoveries concerning biological combustion, with specific reference to vitamin C, and Haworth received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on the constitution of carbohydrates and vitamin C.

Further Discoveries and Applications:

Szent-Györgyi continued his research, famously identifying paprika as an exceptionally rich and easily accessible source of vitamin C, allowing for its production in larger quantities.

Since its discovery, vitamin C has been extensively studied for its various roles in human health, including its function as an antioxidant, its involvement in collagen synthesis, immune function, and iron absorption.

Today, vitamin C is recognized as an essential nutrient, and its deficiency is known to cause scurvy, characterized by symptoms like weakness, bleeding gums, and poor wound healing.

Research continues to explore the potential benefits of vitamin C in preventing and treating various diseases.

The history of vitamin C is a compelling story of scientific investigation driven by the need to combat a devastating disease. From empirical observations to isolation, structural determination, and synthesis, the journey to understanding and utilizing this essential nutrient has significantly impacted human health

*     *     *

William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who lives in Alachua, Florida. He is semi-retired and works part time at Lake Butler Hospital in Lake Butler, Florida. William received his pharmacy degree at Auburn University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Colorado University. The Pharmacy Newsletter is a blog where you can find other informative columns. He may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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As a concerned citizen of Florida, I am writing to express my deep alarm over the recent decision to eliminate all vaccine mandates in our state. Vaccines have long been one of the most effective and life-saving public health tools we have. Rolling back these protections threatens to reverse decades of progress against diseases like measles, mumps, and polio — illnesses that vaccines had nearly eliminated.

This decision will not affect all Floridians equally. Black and Brown communities, already facing disproportionate rates of chronic illness, limited access to care, and systemic health inequities, will bear the heaviest burden. Without the safeguard of mandates, these communities are at greater risk of disease outbreaks and preventable deaths.

I am also concerned about the issue of trust. Our nation’s history of medical neglect and mistreatment of Black and Brown populations has left a deep scar of mistrust in the healthcare system. Abrupt policy changes such as this risk eroding fragile progress in building confidence and could reinforce skepticism toward public health guidance.

Beyond the health risks, there are serious financial and economic consequences. Preventable outbreaks lead to increased healthcare costs, hospitalizations, and strain on already overburdened medical systems. Families who cannot afford time off work or unexpected medical bills will be disproportionately harmed. Local businesses and schools may also face disruptions if vaccine-preventable diseases reemerge, causing lost productivity and economic instability. In short, what may appear to be a rollback of regulation could instead create higher costs for families, communities, and the state as a whole.

While individuals should have the right to make informed decisions — including the ability to opt out under certain circumstances — public health policy must balance personal choice with the protection of children, immunocompromised individuals, and entire communities. Without mandates or robust equity-driven alternatives, our most vulnerable neighbors will be left unprotected.

Faith and cultural values are also central to many families’ health decisions. Public health efforts should engage and respect these perspectives. But removing mandates outright, without strong outreach, education, and access initiatives, will send us backward — leaving communities exposed to diseases that science has already taught us how to prevent.

I urge you to reconsider this decision. If mandates are to be removed, Florida must implement strong, equity-focused measures to ensure that every Floridian — regardless of race, income, or faith — is protected. Public health policy must be guided not only by science and fairness but also by a recognition of the enormous economic and financial strain that preventable outbreaks place on families and our state.

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

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The history of the B vitamins is a fascinating journey that spans several decades and involves the work of numerous scientists. Initially William Garst HSthought to be a single nutrient, it was later discovered to be a complex group of essential water-soluble vitamins with distinct functions. Here's a brief overview of their discovery:

The Beriberi Connection

The story begins in the late 19th Century with the investigation of beriberi, a debilitating disease prevalent in regions where polished white rice was a dietary staple.

  • 1889: Dutch physician Christiaan Eijkman, working in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), observed that chickens fed polished white rice developed beriberi-like symptoms, which were reversed when they were fed unpolished brown rice. This suggested a nutritional deficiency.
  • 1906: English biochemist Frederick Gowland Hopkins proposed the existence of "accessory food factors" beyond fats, proteins, and carbohydrates that were essential for growth and health.

The “Vitamine” Concept

  • 1911: Polish biochemist Casimir Funk, working in London, isolated a substance from rice polishings that could cure beriberi in pigeons. He proposed that this and other similar substances were vital amines, coining the term “vitamine.” Although not all vitamins are amines, the name stuck (later dropping the “e”).

Distinguishing Multiple Factors

  • 1913: American biochemist Elmer McCollum distinguished between “fat-soluble factor A” and “water-soluble factor B,” recognizing that there was more than one essential nutrient in the water-soluble category.

Isolation and Identification of Individual B Vitamins:

The subsequent decades saw the isolation and characterization of the individual B vitamins:

  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Isolated in crystalline form in 1926 by Dutch chemists Barend Jansen and Willem Donath. It was the first B vitamin to be identified and was found to be the anti-beriberi factor.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): First observed as a yellow-green fluorescent pigment in milk in 1872, it was characterized and named riboflavin in the early 1930s.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Its deficiency was linked to pellagra in 1915 by Joseph Goldberger. The chemical structure was determined in 1937 by Conrad Elvehjem.
  • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Discovered in 1933 by Roger J. Williams while researching essential nutrients for yeast.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Identified in 1934 by Paul Gyorgy.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Research spanned the early 1900s, with contributions from Margaret Averil Boas (1927) and Paul Gyorgy (who named it Vitamin H in 1939), among others.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): Identified in 1933 by Lucy Wills for its role in preventing a type of anemia during pregnancy.
  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Its deficiency was linked to pernicious anemia. It was isolated in 1947 by Karl Folkers and his team.

The “B Complex”

As each water-soluble vitamin with a distinct function was discovered, they were grouped together as the “vitamin B complex.” This term reflects their shared water solubility and their common occurrence in many of the same foods, as well as their often-interconnected roles in metabolic processes.

Nobel Prizes

The importance of B vitamin research is highlighted by the Nobel Prizes awarded to scientists involved in their discovery and understanding:

  • 1929: Christiaan Eijkman and Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work on the discovery of vitamins. Eijkman's work focused on the link between diet and beriberi (leading to the identification of Vitamin B1), while Hopkins was recognized for his broader contributions to the understanding of essential nutrients.
  • 1934: George Whipple, George Minot, and William Murphy received the Nobel Prize for their work on the treatment of pernicious anemia using liver extracts, which eventually led to the isolation of Vitamin B12.
  • 1964: Dorothy Hodgkin was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her work on determining the structures of important biochemical substances, including Vitamin B12.

Modern Understanding

Today, we have a detailed understanding of the chemical structures, functions, dietary sources, and deficiency symptoms of each of the B vitamins. They are known to play crucial roles as coenzymes in numerous metabolic pathways, affecting energy production, nerve function, red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and many other vital processes.

It's worth noting that several other substances were once considered part of the B complex and assigned B numbers (like B4, B8, B10, B11), but these were later found to be either synthesized by the body or not essential and were thus removed from the official list of B vitamins

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William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who lives in Alachua, Florida. He is semi-retired and works part time at Lake Butler Hospital in Lake Butler, Florida. William received his pharmacy degree at Auburn University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Colorado University. The Pharmacy Newsletter is a blog where you can find other informative columns. He may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded more than $247 million through the Broadband Infrastructure Program, connecting more than 59,000 unserved and underserved businesses, homes, farms and anchor institutions like hospitals and libraries to high-speed Internet. Infrastructure deployment through 63 strategic projects in 43 Florida counties ensures that Florida residents have reliable and efficient access to workforce, education and health monitoring opportunities for generations to come.
 These awards are in addition to more than $226 million in Broadband Opportunity Grant Funding already awarded to 53 counties awards to expand broadband Internet access to unserved areas across the state, connecting more than 250,000 homes and businesses. Additional funding will become available this year through new and existing programs.
 “High-speed broadband Internet is important infrastructure for Florida communities and will generate economic development activity and a talented labor force,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida is proud to make investments in broadband Internet infrastructure that will benefit all Floridians and make long-term impacts in communities across the state.”
 
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is expanding broadband Internet to small and rural areas of the state that will now have new accsess to critical resources,” said Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary J. Alex Kelly. “Broadband Internet infrastructure will change the landscape and quality of life for Florida families and businesses, connecting them to workforce training, jobs, educational resources and telehealth services.”
 The Florida Department of Commerce (FloridaCommerce) is hosting a series of public workshops to hear directly from Floridians about barriers to accessing broadband Internet service in their communities. The workshops will help inform Florida’s plan to access funding for the expansion of broadband Internet service, and the deployment of online devices and digital skills training. Find more information on the public workshops here.
 The following projects will be awarded through the Broadband Infrastructure Program:
  
    • Cities of Newberry and Archer – ($3,393,309.75) to add 69 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 255 unserved locations within Alachua and Levy counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1 gigabyte per second (1GB).
 
    • Cities of Archer, Hawthorne and Micanopy – ($21,290,000) to add 783 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 5,799 unserved locations within Alachua, Marion and Putnam counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ebro, Panama City and Wewahitchka – ($19,594,367.84) to add 1500.28 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,145 unserved locations within Bay, Calhoun, Gulf and Washington counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area East of Crosby Lake and the corridors of N County Roads 225, 229 and 301 and NW County Road 233 – ($740,000) to add 40.12 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 815 unserved locations within Bradford County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Selman, town of Altha, and unincorporated communities of McNeal and Round Lake – ($604,041) to add 16.5 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 99 unserved locations within Calhoun County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • The unincorporated areas of Rotunda and Cleveland and parts of Charlotte County – ($3,085,000) to add 96.49 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 805 unserved locations within Charlotte County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Burnt Store Road corridor and US41/I75 corridors --- ($2,160,000) to add 92.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,268 unserved locations within Charlotte County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Penney Farms, City of Keystone Heights and the unincorporated communities of Virginia Village, Kingsley Lake, and corridors of State Roads 16, 315, and 17 – ($1,590,000) to add 115.71 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,498 unserved locations within Clay County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Penney Farms, City of Keystone Heights and the unincorporated communities of Virginia Village, Kingsley Lake, and corridors of State Roads 16, 315, and 17 – ($825,000) to add 61.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 730 unserved locations within Clay County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Immokalee – ($122,000) to add 61.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 242 unserved locations within Collier County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Columbia County --- ($3,435,521) to add 110 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,572 unserved locations within Columbia, Alachua and Union counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Fort White – ($3,348,337) to add 143 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,702 unserved locations within Columbia, Gilchrist, Suwannee and Alachua counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Fort White, and the unincorporated areas of Five Points and Lake City– ($2,225,000) to add 65.36 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 555 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City – ($2,680,000) to add 86.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 700 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City --- ($2,540,000) to add 77.01 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 631 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City --- ($2,260,000) to add 61.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 386 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas of Arcadia/East and Pine Level – ($2,550,000) to add 82.48 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 634 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Arcadia and Hull – ($3,490,000) to add 98.58 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 689 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated community of Nocatee – ($2,600,000) to add 72.35 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 453 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Area of Gonzalez – ($1,444,738.50) to add 20 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 78 unserved locations within Escambia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bunnell, areas of Bakersburg and Codys Corner, and unincorporated communities of Espanola, Korona, Dupont, Favoretta and Country Acres – ($751,793.25) to add 13.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 79 unserved locations within Flagler County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • City of Apalachicola – ($825,075) to add 10.11 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 373 unserved locations within Franklin County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Havana and Quincy – ($1,826,626) to add 134.46 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,674 unserved locations within Gadsden County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Reston Community – ($172,277.72) to add 6.46 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 152 unserved locations within Gadsden County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Wauchula and unincorporated areas around Wauchula and the areas of Ona and Limestone – ($323,000) to add 44.11 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 278 unserved locations within Hardee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Wauchula and unincorporated areas around Wauchula, town of Zolfo Springs and the area of Gardner – ($1,185,000) to add 163.77 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,007 unserved locations within Hardee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Sebring – ($10,512,009.74) to add 1365.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,625 unserved locations within Hendry, Highlands, Glades and Okeechobee counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Unincorporated community of Spring Lake – ($29,078) to add 4.5 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 79 unserved locations within Hernando County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Community of Crystal Lake – ($4,700,358.31) to add 5.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 520 unserved locations within Highlands County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Avon Park and Sebring and the town of Lake Placid – ($2,100,000) to add 95.83 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,118 unserved locations within Highlands County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Fellsmere and Vero Beach and the area of Vero Beach South – ($1,900,000) to add 94.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 661 unserved locations within Indian River County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bonita Springs – ($612,830) to add 6.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 328 unserved locations within Lee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 100/100 megabits per second (Mbps).
 
    • City of Fort Myers, the unincorporated areas of Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Alva and Olga – ($2,050,000) to add 68.31 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,196 unserved locations within Lee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Williston, town of Bronson, and areas of East Bronson, Raleigh, East Williston, Williston Highlands and Morriston – ($4,828,110) to add 195 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,444 unserved locations within Levy County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Chiefland – ($3,460,000) to add 204 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,580 unserved locations within Levy County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Marion County – ($4,779,127) to add 88 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 935 unserved locations within Marion and Putnam counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area of Silver Springs Shores and the unincorporated community of Ocklawaha – ($15,841,522) to add 231 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,296 unserved locations within Marion and Lake counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area of Palm City – ($1,360,000) to add 30.74 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 484 unserved locations within Martin County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Miami-Dade County – ($610,000) to add 17.77 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 152 unserved locations within Miami-Dade County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($3,265,000) to add 70.28 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 639 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($1,775,000) to add 39.74 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 259 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($2,326,165.50) to add 48.21 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 314 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($1,635,000) to add 41.92 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 388 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Laurel Hill – ($1,035,920) to add 30 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 161 unserved locations within Okaloosa and Walton counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Okaloosa County – ($17,780,940.75) to add 242 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,057 unserved locations within Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Basinger and Fort Drum and areas of Palm Village Ranch– ($1,620,000) to add 115.63 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,304 unserved locations within Okeechobee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Unincorporated Community of Loxahatchee – ($2,532,000) to add 39.03 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 357 unserved locations within Palm Beach County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Village of Wellington – ($1,340,000) to add 19.55 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 165 unserved locations within Palm Beach County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Putnam County – ($1,585,150) to add 65 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 769 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown --- ($3,060,074.25) to add 68 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 441 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown – ($1,725,000) to add 44.32 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 512 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown– ($1,375,000) to add 34.55 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 371 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown – ($1,500,000) to add 75.73 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,421 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Jay and unincorporated areas of Allentown, Dixonville, Munson, Pine Level, Springhill, Bagdad and Whitfield, and unincorporated communities of Dickerson, Avalon, Mulat, East Milton, Roeville and Harold – ($24,752,619.75) to add 248 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,343 unserved locations within Santa Rosa County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Jay and unincorporated areas of Allentown, Dixonville, Munson, Pine Level, Springhill and Whitfield – ($9,648,409.48) to add 756.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 217 unserved locations within Santa Rosa County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated town of Nokomis and unincorporated area of Englewood – ($743,022) to add 9.86 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 90 unserved locations within Sarasota County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Myakka State Park – ($705,088.35) to add 7.75 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 23 unserved locations within Sarasota County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Palm Coast and St. Augustine and the town of Hastings – ($1,403,283.75) to add 25.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 141 unserved locations within St. Johns and Flagler counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie --- ($2,028,750) to add 41.59 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 396 unserved locations within St. Lucie County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast Airpark --- ($1,386,614.25) to add 21.09 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 183 unserved locations within St. Lucie County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Coleman, Bushnell, Center Hill, Webster, Wildwood, the unincorporated communities of Adamsville, Sumterville, Croom, Nobleton, the village of Whitney, the areas of Village of Collier, Lake Panasoffkee and the town of Mabel – ($3,491,131) to add 115.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 831 unserved locations within Sumter County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Live Oak, Fort Union, Lake City, Greenfield, Jasper, Buckville and Hatchbend, the towns of Branford, Jennings, Mayo, White Springs, and the unincorporated communities of Dowling Park, O’Brien, McAlpin, Rixford, and Day– ($22,615,314.97) to add 2072.42 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,640 unserved locations within Suwannee, Hamilton, Columbia and Lafayette counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Deltona and Debary and unincorporated areas, communities and villages of DeLeon Springs, Tomoka Woods, Barberville, Seville, Butler Groves, Samsula-Spruce Creek, Indian Springs, Deltona Lakes, Deltona Commons, Boden, Osteen, Pennichaw and Creighton – ($329,448.75) to add 6.2 miles of cable to provide 31 unserved locations within Volusia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.

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