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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ Downtown High Springs was buzzing with activity spanning the sidewalks from Main Street to U.S. Highway 27 as the seasonal Art Walk unfolded on Saturday, April 20 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event featured local artists and makers situated on the sidewalks in front of businesses in the charming downtown area. The picturesque town center transformed into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, drawing locals and visitors alike to immerse in the creative flair of the community.

Boosted by beautiful springtime weather complete with picture perfect clear blue skies, and adding to the art lover’s scene, were the hospitable restaurants and vibrant shops showcasing High Springs’ walkable, charming small-town hospitality.

The event showcased a number of local artists and makers who set up shop along the sidewalks. Against the backdrop of High Springs' picturesque streets, attendees strolled between artist areas, admiring a diverse array of artwork ranging from paintings and ceramics to intricate handcrafted jewelry and woven crafts such as crocheted tote bags and whimsical animals—something to captivate every imagination and cater to every taste.

ArtWalk is a visual cornucopia that reflects the diversity and creativity of the local artistic community. Supported by the City of High Springs, Art Walk, a series of seasonal gatherings, serves as a platform for local artisans to exhibit their talents and connect with the community. It not only provides artists with an opportunity to showcase and sell their work but also fosters a connection among creators and art enthusiasts alike.

Buoyed by the success of Art Walk, organizers have already set their sights on future events, with the next one happening on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Additional Art Walks are scheduled throughout the year, with later dates set for the third Saturday in October, November, and December, promising additional afternoons of artistic discovery

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NEWBERRY ‒ Great entertainment, food and fun were a winning combination at Newberry’s sixth annual Westfest this past Saturday. From 4 – 9 p.m., the event at Lois Forte Park lived up to its advanced billing of a hometown family friendly celebration of music.

Sponsored by the Newberry Main Street Organization, Westfest has become a staple in the community, offering a platform for local and not-so-local talents and a chance for residents to come together and revel in the spirit of music and entertainment.

Performances by Cam Wheaton, Houston Keen, The Ben Carter Band and Logan Ryan Band offered something to suit every musical taste.

Wheaton hails from Trenton and is a singer-songwriter who was a favorite Saturday evening along with Houston Keen, another North Florida artist based out of Chiefland.

Crowds were also treated to the dynamic sounds of The Ben Carter Band, whose energetic performance had attendees on their feet, dancing and singing along. Closing out the evening was the Logan Ryan Band, bringing a taste of Texas with their blend of country and southern rock, rounding off the night on a high note.

The excitement of the evening was further heightened by the announcement of the music festival shirt winners. Among the lucky recipients were Willie Watson, Rebecca Campos, Hailee Ford, Dawna Summers, and Danny Herrington, who walked away with memorabilia to commemorate the event.

Sponsors of the event were Visit Gainesville Alachua County, George F. Young Engineering and Surveying, Scorpio Construction, OEC Business Interiors, Purvis Gray Certified Public Accountants, CHW Civil Engineering & Land Surveying Consultants, EDA Consultants, Holiday Inn University Center, Greenfield Preschool, Oelrich Construction, Gator Fire Equipment Company, and Woodard & Curran.

As the last notes of music faded into the night, it was evident that Newberry's sixth annual Westfest had delivered an unforgettable experience for all who attended.

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NEWBERRY ‒ After months of rigorous public debate, townhalls, and public campaigning, the parents and teachers at the three public schools in Newberry have voted down proposed conversions from public schools to charter schools.  The April 17 tallying of votes at the Newberry Municipal Building lasted for several hours and ended in some doubt as to the outcome of the vote for the Newberry Elementary School conversion.

There was no doubt that both parents and teachers voted no on conversion of Oak View Middle School with 244 parents voting against conversion and 134 parents voting against conversion.  Teachers at Oak View Middle School also turned down the conversion with an affirmative 40 votes against and just nine in favor of the proposed change.  Two teachers abstained from voting, and so therefore count as a “no” vote, leaving a total of 42 votes against conversion.  Similarly, 149 parents of Newberry High School students voted against converting to a charter school compared to 114 casting ballots in favor.  The story was a little different when it came to teachers at the High School, with 17 voting in favor of converting to a charter school compared to just six teachers affirmatively voting “no” to conversion of the school.  There were six other teaches who abstained from voting, bringing the total number counted against the change to just 12 votes.

At Newberry Elementary School, meanwhile, parents voted in favor of the conversion with 149 “yes” votes compared to 125 “no” votes.  The concern at Newberry Elementary School centered primarily on a single ballot among those cast by teachers.  Of the total 44 eligible teachers, 22 affirmatively voted in favor of the transition while 17 affirmatively voted against the change.  Since four teachers at Newberry Elementary abstained from voting, they counted as “no” votes, bringing the votes against the conversion to just 21.  

In contest is one ballot in favor of conversion, but was a parent ballot inside a teacher envelope, could account for the 44th teacher, and bring the total of teachers in favor to 23.  The ballot was disqualified, however, based on the uncertainty in how it should be counted.  If it is simply not counted, then exactly 50 percent of the teachers at the school voted in favor of the conversion.  The controversy appears to be whether 50 percent is sufficient or if a majority is required for the measure to pass.  

Florida Representative Charles “Chuck” Clemons believes the Newberry Elementary School conversion to a Charter school has passed as required by Florida law.  On April 17, Clemons sent a letter to Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz and Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd asking for the State to weigh in on the issue.  Clemons believes that a majority of teachers is not required for passage of the measure, writing, “[t]he plain language of the law states ‘at least 50 percent of the teachers employed at the school’ and does not require a majority.”

Clemons requested clarification from both state-level officials, stating, “[a]s both of you have served as respected lawmakers, I know that you understand that had the Legislature intended to require a majority vote, it would have done just that. While I feel strongly that the statute, as it plainly reads, is not ambiguous and thus, the effort as it relates to Newberry Elementary cannot be characterized as anything other than successful. However, your opinions and the opinions of your Legal Counsel are critical in insuring that this election is certified properly.

While no one with the State has officially responded, Alachua County Public Schools appears confident that this matter is a dead one.  The school district posted on its webpage, “[a]s you may know, the votes cast by eligible teachers and parents on the conversion of Newberry’s public schools to charter schools were counted on Wednesday, April 17 at a public meeting overseen by Alachua County Supervisor of Elections Kim Barton. The results of the count are as follows: Newberry Elementary School: did not pass; Oak View Middle School: did not pass; Newberry High School: did not pass.  This means that Newberry Elementary School, Oak View Middle School, and Newberry High School ARE NOT eligible to become charters for the 2025-26 school year.”

The measure to convert the publics school was brought by a group called Newberry Education First.  If passed, the conversions to charter schools would have been effective with the 2025-26 school year.

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GAINESVILLE – At 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 7, authorities apprehended a 39-year-old Alachua woman, charging her with grand theft of a vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia

Crystal Fay CascaddanA Gainesville Police Department (GPD) officer responded to the intersection of Northeast 35th Avenue and Northeast 11th Terrace after a concerned citizen reported a suspicious vehicle. The officer found Crystal Fay Cascaddan sleeping in the driver’s seat of a 2004 Saturn SUV with no tag. The officer discovered that the SUV had been reported stolen from Tomlinson Motor Company on April 3.

Cascaddan reportedly told the officer that she had the keys to the SUV and that she got the vehicle from a friend.

When the officer asked her to get out of the vehicle, she allegedly threw a piece of tin foil into nearby bushes and tried to bury a glass pipe in leaves at her feet. The officer reported that he didn’t find any contraband in the foil.

A search incident to arrest reportedly produced a long copper pipe that appeared to be modified for the consumption of narcotics.

Post Miranda, Cascaddan reportedly said she got the SUV from a friend and threw the foil into the bushes because she thought it contained “meth.” She reportedly admitted having a small amount of fentanyl in a bag in the car. However, for the officer’s safety the substance was not field-tested and was sent to FDLE for testing.

Cascaddan reportedly said the copper pipe was her “straw” that she uses to smoke fentanyl. The officer reported that Cascaddan eventually admitted finding the keys to the SUV on top of one of its tires a few nights earlier. She admitted that she took the vehicle and didn’t know who owned it.

Less than two weeks ago, Cascaddan entered a plea in two cases of retail theft and was sentenced to two years of probation, with a condition that she live without breaking the law.

Cascaddan has five non violent felony convictions and five non violent misdemeanor convictions. She has served one state prison sentence and was released in 2019.

Cascaddan was ordered to be held without bond for violating her probation and Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $11,000 on the new charges.

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ALACHUA ‒ In an effort to enhance its utilities infrastructure, the City of Alachua is advancing the expansion of wastewater facilities and the acquisition of a state-of-the-art bucket truck.

The Alachua West Wastewater Improvement Project took a significant step forward as the City Commission on April 8, 2024, approved the bid for infrastructure construction.

With population growth and development in the western part of the City of Alachua placing increasing demands on existing systems, the project aims to bolster capacity and improve operational efficiency.

On Jan. 31, 2024, the City solicited formal bids from qualified vendors to furnish key components of the wastewater project including labor, materials, services, expenses, equipment, direct and indirect costs, lump sum price to construct approximately 9,000 linear feet of pressurized Wastewater Main and improve the existing lift stations under the Alachua West Wastewater Improvement Project.

Qualified bids were received from Art Walker Construction, Inc. in the amount of $1,924,301 and GWP Construction Inc. in the amount of $1,137,069. GWP was the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The project is being funding in part through a Florida Department of Environmental Department (FDEP) grant of $850,000 of which $150,000 is going to engineering leaving the remaining $700,000 available for a portion of the construction cost. The remaining project cost will be paid through the City’s Waste Water Fund.

The Commission unanimously approved awarding the bid to GWP Construction Inc.

And, after a nearly two-year delay, the City of Alachua Utilities Department will soon be the recipient of a new state-of-the art bucket truck.

On Sept. 26, 2022, the City Commission authorized $179,500 to provide for the purchase of one AT48M Bucket Truck. The demand for new bucket trucks along with production delays created long lead times, sometimes multiple years, creating price increases from the original quote.

In April 2022, Altec Industries, Inc. quoted the bucket truck at a cost of $179,425. After supply delays, the AT48M truck is now in production at a current price of $192,222.

Altec Industries, Inc. honored the original quote of $179,425 with the $12,797 increase coming from a newer 2024 Ford F550 4x4model chassis along with a slight increase in the delivery charge.

The purchase will be paid for out of the City’s Electric fund with the specially equipped vehicle enhancing the operation and reliability of the utility department.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ According to an article published by “The Edvocate,” an online magazine that says it was created to advocate for education equity, reform and innovation, High Springs was recently named one of the 10 best small towns for outdoor enthusiasts in Florida.

“Florida is renowned for its bustling cities, theme parks and beaches, but it’s also home to some of the most charming small towns perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. From the Panhandle to the southernmost point, these small towns offer a slower pace with an impressive array of activities in nature. Here are the 10 best small towns in Florida that cater to those who yearn for adventure in the great outdoors.”

Listed as number eight of 10, the article lists High Springs as an area that “teems with natural springs like Ginnie Springs, making it ideal for those who enjoy freshwater swimming, cave diving or river tubing adventures.

Other cities listed are Dunedin, Mount Dora, Apalachicola, Cedar Key, Crystal River, DeFuniak Springs, Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, Everglades City and Venice.

The article further reads that “For those looking to connect with nature while enjoying quaint community life, these towns represent Florida’s diverse ecological offerings — from serene beaches and bountiful lakes to dense forests and unique swamplands — each holds untold adventures waiting to be discovered by outdoor enthusiasts.”

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TALLAHASSEE, FL - Looking for a way to show your support of Florida panther conservation? Consider getting the newly designed Protect the Panther license plate whether you are renewing your Florida plates or licensing your car in the state for the first time.

Staff with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) worked with photographer Carlton Ward and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida to design the new plate. The latest design features a stunning photograph taken by Carlton in 2018 depicting a well-known panther — the first female documented north of the Caloosahatchee River since 1973 and also the first female documented to have had kittens north of the river in over 40 years. The Caloosahatchee River has long appeared to be an obstacle to the natural expansion of the population, including the northward movement of female panthers.

The new license plate can be purchased at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or by checking with your local tax collector office for availability. When renewing vehicles, Florida motorists can exchange their old plates for the new Protect the Panther plate by going in person to your local tax collector office or the FLHSMV. At this time, the new plates are not available through online renewals but can be purchased in person.

Fees from the Protect the Panther license plate go directly into the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund, which is a critical source of funding for the state’s panther-related research, monitoring and conservation efforts. The long-term public support of this fund has had a direct positive impact on the FWC’s management and research efforts, resulting in timely, science-based information needed to guide current and future conservation actions for Florida panthers. The FWC and conservation partners have made significant progress with panther recovery and the FWC’s panther program relies upon sales of the license plate to continue these conservation efforts.

Florida panthers are native to the state, with the majority of panthers found south of Lake Okeechobee. Florida panthers are listed as an Endangered species under the federal Endangered Species Act. There are approximately 120-230 adult panthers in the population.

Purchasing a Protect the Panther license plate isn’t the only way you can help panthers. Drivers can also help by following all posted speed limits, particularly in panther zones, which are in place in several counties across south Florida to coincide with areas where panthers are known to cross. Panther speed zones help protect both Florida panthers and motorists from vehicle collisions and potential injury. You can also donate directly to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s Florida Panther Fund to support the rehabilitation and release of injured panthers and help FWC staff and partners locate and protect panthers, including their dens and kittens.

To learn more about Florida panthers and the FWC’s work to conserve the species, visit MyFWC.com/Panther.

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~Suspect crashed ambulance and fled on foot after his photo was taken by in car camera ~

TAMPA, Fla.- Early this morning at approximately 2:00 a.m., a supervisor with American Medical Rescue (AMR), a private ambulance service, observed a vehicle that appeared to be involved in a crash located on the Interstate 75 (I-75) Southbound exit ramp to Interstate 4 (I-4) Westbound in Hillsborough County.

The supervisor, who was driving a Chevy Tahoe marked as a rescue vehicle, decided to check the welfare of the individual involved.

Rolling down his window, he asked if everything was ok. The driver of the crashed vehicle approached the ambulance and began throwing himself at the window, gaining access to the ambulance. Once inside, the subject started fighting with the ambulance driver and took control of the vehicle. The ambulance driver, fearing for his life, exited the vehicle and called 9-1-1.

FHP 3 22 2024 Ambulance Carjack SuspectWhile attempting to flee in the stolen ambulance, the suspect collided with a Nissan Altima on the ramp for Interstate 75 Southbound to Interstate 4 Westbound. As Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) responded, the suspect fled in the marked ambulance. The HCSO pursued the ambulance but lost contact with it and terminated the pursuit.

The ambulance's in-car camera system reported a vehicle crash at 2:09 a.m. and took a photo of the suspect inside the vehicle. The suspect fled the scene of the crash, and the ambulance was later recovered. 

The suspect is described as a white male who appeared to be under the influence of unknown drugs. To view video of the incident click here.

 

 Anyone with information regarding this incident or the identity of the carjacking suspect is asked to call *FHP (*347) or Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a milestone in Florida’s continuing economic success: Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has been lower than the national rate for 40 consecutive months. The national unemployment rate rose to 3.9 percent for February 2024; Florida’s rate did not rise and outperforms the national rate by 0.8 percentage point. And while Florida’s private sector job growth rate increased by 2.3 percent (+194,200 jobs) over the year in February 2024, the national rate grew by only 1.6 percent over the same period.
  
“Florida continues to outperform the nation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We have proven that bold, conservative leadership across the board produces booming economic results—more jobs, lower taxes, less regulation, and fiscal security.”

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to provide an economy for our residents that is primed for opportunity and secure for future growth,” said J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce. “Florida’s strong talent pipeline and skilled workforce are the building blocks of Florida’s economic growth and stability. February’s economic data is more absolute evidence that Florida is on the right path.”

Florida’s economic data continues to indicate economic strength and confidence among Florida’s workforce as the state’s labor force grew by 2.0 percent (+217,000) over the year in February 2024, which is faster than the comparable national rate of 0.7 percent.

The education and health services sector gained the most jobs among all major industries, adding 57,500 jobs over the year. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector performed second best, adding 48,300 jobs. And importantly, leisure and hospitality (tourism) added 35,000 jobs.

Data in the month of February continues to indicate there are many job opportunities available for every Floridian who wants to work, with more than 443,000 jobs posted online. Floridians in search of work and new job opportunities can utilize the CareerSource Florida network for help. Floridians can find guidance on how to register with Employ Florida and search listings of available local job openings. Career seekers can also improve their employability by enhancing resume writing and interviewing skills, establishing career goals, and pursuing customized career training. These services are provided at no cost to job seekers by the State of Florida. 

To view the February 2024 jobs reports by region, please see below: 
•    Fort Lauderdale
•    Jacksonville
•    Miami
•    Orlando
•    Pensacola
•    Southwest Florida
•    Tampa
•    West Palm Beach

To view the February 2024 employment data, visit: https://www.floridajobs.org/workforce-statistics/workforce-statistics-data-releases/monthly-data-releases. 
  
Visit Florida Insight for more information on labor market and economic data. Additionally, the Department has provided a video to assist users in explaining the data provided through Florida Insight. 

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TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing the reminder that sea turtles are starting to nest on our beaches. Residents and visitors can play a big part in helping to protect vulnerable nesting sea turtles this spring and summer while visiting Florida’s coastal habitats.

Because our state’s shorelines provide important nesting habitat for several species of threatened and endangered sea turtles, beachgoers can have a significant impact on their nesting success. To help nesting sea turtles, people can take easy steps to protect them, including giving them space, minimizing disturbances and keeping beaches clean and dark.

Clear the way at the end of the day: Female sea turtles expend large amounts of energy crawling out of the surf and far enough up the sand in order to dig and lay nests in spots that are less vulnerable to the tides. Obstacles on the beach can entrap and prevent them from nesting as they crawl across the sand to lay their eggs. Trash, holes in the sand and other obstacles can also prevent sea turtle hatchlings from reaching the water once they emerge from their nests. Food scraps attract predators, such as raccoons and crows, that prey on sea turtle hatchlings. Litter on beaches can entangle sea turtles, birds and other wildlife. What can you do to help?  Properly stash or recycle all trash, fill in human-made holes in the sand, and remove all beach toys, gear and furniture from the sand before sunset. Fishing line can be deadly to sea turtles, waterbirds and other wildlife, so be sure to dispose of it properly. To find a monofilament recycling station near you, visit mrrp.myfwc.com.

Lights out: Any lighting can misdirect and disturb nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean and toward potential danger. To prevent this, beachgoers should use natural starlight to see when on the beach at night and avoid using flashlights or cellphones. Anyone living along or visiting Florida beaches can do their part by putting porch, parking or deck lights out and closing curtains after dark to avoid disorienting nesting and hatchling sea turtles on the beach. If lighting could still be visible from the beach, be sure it is long, low and shielded

Admire from afar: While it can be exciting to witness sea turtles on the beach, getting too close (50 feet or less) to nesting sea turtles can cause them to leave the beach before they complete the nesting process. If an animal changes their behavior, you’re likely too close. Remember – it is illegal to harm or disturb nesting sea turtles, their nests and eggs, or to pick up hatchlings.  

Sea turtles typically return to nest in March along Florida’s southeast Atlantic coast from Brevard County south to Broward County, while nesting begins on Gulf Coast or north Florida beaches in April or May.

For more information about nesting sea turtles and how you can help, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle or see the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure. Other ways to help sea turtles include reporting those that are sick, injured, entangled or dead to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

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TALLAHASSEE, FL - As the weather gets warmer across the Sunshine State, alligators are becoming more active and visible.

The American alligator is a conservation success story in Florida. Florida has a healthy and stable alligator population, which is estimated at 1.3 million alligators of every size. Alligators are found in all 67 counties, inhabiting all wetlands where there’s adequate food and shelter.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) works to keep Floridians and visitors informed and recommends the following precautionary measures near alligators, including in or near the water, to reduce the chances of conflict:

  • Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator. If someone is concerned about an alligator, they should call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), and we will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation.
  • Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge. Pets often resemble alligators’ natural prey.
  • Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours and without your pet. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
  • Never feed an alligator. It’s illegal and dangerous. When fed, alligators can lose their natural wariness and instead learn to associate people with the availability of food. This can lead to dangerous circumstances for yourself and other people who could encounter the alligator in the future.

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 TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the first rescue mission from Haiti with evacuees who were otherwise unable to return home due to the ongoing political crisis in Haiti. Florida brought 14 Floridians home from Haiti to Orlando Sanford International Airport via emergency flights coordinated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Watch Governor DeSantis' remarks here.
“This is the second time that Florida has stepped up to ensure that Americans have a way out of an unstable political situation abroad,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I am proud of the work we have done to get Floridians home and reunite them with their families. We will also continue to dedicate resources to prevent the flow of illegal immigrants from reaching our shores while the situation in Haiti deteriorates.” 
“Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ swift leadership, the Division is expediting resources to do whatever it takes to bring residents home while protecting Florida’s border security,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “We will continue to work with local law enforcement partners and run more flights to evacuate citizens trapped in Haiti.”

The Florida Division of Emergency Management will continue to lead efforts for additional flights bringing Floridians home. Upon landing in Orlando, citizens are able to access resources from multiple state agencies, including: 

  • Meals
  • Lodging
  • Transportation
  • Basic health and medical screenings
  • Care supplies for infants, toddlers, seniors and pets
  • Family reunification center 
  • Hope navigators and counselors
  • Children’s activity center
  • Florida License on Wheels (FLOW) center for replacement of identification
This effort follows Governor Ron DeSantis’ announcement earlier last week directing more than 250 additional law enforcement, Florida National Guard and Florida State Guard resources to the Florida Keys in preparation for an influx of illegal immigrants from Haiti.

Read Governor DeSantis' Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency and authorizing FDEM to execute rescue operations here.

If you or someone you know is a Florida citizen who is unable to leave Haiti due to the current situation, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Haiti to fill out a form to let us know. 

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Medication reconciliation is a term used in healthcare that describes the process of comparing a patient’s medication orders in a healthcare institution (hospital or nursing home) to what the patient has been prescribed and taking at home.

The purpose of this short column is to point out that many times patients are admitted to an institution, sometimes in an emergency, and it is difficult to determine what medications have been taken at home. Often when asked about their medicWilliam-Garst-HS.jpgations the response is “I take a blood pressure drug, a blood thinner, something for cholesterol, and something occasionally for arthritis pain.”

Just those four categories of medications probably describe several dozen, if not more, potential medications. What is needed is an exact listing of the medications with their dose (strength), how often they are taken, and when they are taken.

 

The perfect list of medications would be an official one from the patient’s primary care physician or provider. However, often what is presented at the institution is a handwritten list with the barest of information.

I am suggesting in this short column that a person, each time they see their primary care physician, request a current list of their medications with doses and instructions, to be printed for them or even emailed to them for reference in case of an emergency.

This list would also be helpful to take to their pharmacist for comparison to what the pharmacy has on file in their computer profile. In this way, the pharmacist could request a prescription to be there at the pharmacy before it is needed, if there have been changes to the drug, dose, or how often the medication is taken. In addition, the pharmacist may want to notify the primary care physician of other medications that have been prescribed that are not on the primary care physician's record.

This brings up another important aspect: sometimes other physicians (specialists or emergency department physicians) have prescribed medication for a patient and the primary care physician is unaware and would need to know this addition, even if temporary, for a complete listing of medications.

It is vital that medication regimens be accurate as patients transition between healthcare environments as a matter of safety and proper medication administration. Keep the list handy or scan it into your computer for ready reference.

I hope this column was informative; prosper and be in health.

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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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The Editorial Board of Alachua County Today has rarely taken to endorsing candidates in local political races; however, there are times when it becomes necessary. Such is the case in the City of High Springs commission races scheduled for Nov. 7, 2023. Up for consideration are four candidates in two races. In Seat 1, electors in High Springs will have the opportunity to select between the incumbent, Ross Ambrose, and Andrew Miller. In Seat 2, voters will consider incumbent, Gloria James, and Steven Tapanes.

For many years, the City of High Springs experienced considerable political tumult, so much so that it created harsh divisions within the community. Over the last few election cycles, voters have managed to regain control of their commission, placing on the dais community-minded, non-partisan commissioners who have been focused on moving High Springs forward, into a more fiscally sound and responsible direction.

Tax increases are rarely, if ever, welcomed by the taxpayers, but tax increases are sometimes necessary. The City of High Springs, like every other small town, is feeling the financial pinch of inflation. We all feel the financial pinch of inflation. Without an increase in taxes this year, the City of High Springs would be setting itself up for financial straits in the years to come. Simply put, the City has to pay someone to fix water pipes, respond to emergencies, put out fires, and maintain the City’s infrastructure. That is to say nothing of the business of running the City. There is no doubt that there are some, including former commissioners, who want to sow divisions, but these efforts are not productive for the citizens.

Some candidates, and one commissioner, who is not up for election this cycle, have criticized the incumbent commissioners for approval of the FY 2023-24 budget, which did include an increase in the millage rate. It’s easy for one commissioner to sit by and criticize, without solution, a budget which she knows will pass while she avoids the political hit by voting against it.

To be sure, there is always work to be done on tightening the belt on government, reducing waste, and finding new and innovative ways to deliver governance and the services the citizens have come to appreciate and expect. The City of High Springs does not exist in a vacuum however, and for that reason, there are simply some economic conditions the City cannot avoid.

It is because of the work done by commissioners like Ross Ambrose and Gloria James that the City has reached a state of stability, a posture that is allowing the City to get its legs underneath it. After years of political disarray and infighting, the City is finally beginning to make headway on projects that hold great promise for the City of High Springs and its residents.

This is not the time to pull the rug out from underneath the commission and management. Instead, voters should reelect Gloria James and Ross Ambrose while encouraging them to seek common ground on budget issues, attempt to increase efficiency, and hold themselves and management accountable.

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I am writing in support of Ross Ambrose for High Springs City Commission. First let me say that I have nothing negative to say about his opponent, and I’m grateful that we have wonderful people willing to serve our great little town. That said, I have plenty of positive reasons to support Ross in this election.

I have known Ross for at 15 years as a neighbor and friend in town. Ross showed his commitment to this town for years by serving on city boards before he ever ran for office. He has always taken anything he does seriously and professionally and that goes for the City Commission as well.

Ross makes it his business to understand every issue and the effects of city, county and state law on the issue, and how everything works together. When he makes a decision one way or the other on anything, I expect that he has researched it thoroughly. I feel like I don’t have to understand everything little thing that comes before the city, because he literally does that hard job for us. He has run a successful business for 10 years and he understands fiscal responsibility as well as investment and looking at the big picture to prepare us for the future. 

Perhaps the biggest reason I support Mr. Ambrose is that he is truthful, even when the truth is not what I want to hear. My example is that I emailed him about the proposed Bridlewood subdivision, coming out strongly against it. Like many in High Springs, I love our small town, and the surrounding open spaces. I don’t want the town to be swamped with traffic and see the beauty around us turn into South Florida-style crowding and sprawl. I want to protect the springs at all costs. I would be very happy to see zero new large-scale subdivisions here.

Ross took the time to email me back and carefully explain how the property that was Tillman Acres/proposed Bridlewood was zoned for crazy-dense zoning many years ago, and that the City can’t undo that and could be subject to a lawsuit if we tried. He was hoping to get the most palatable deal out of a bad situation.

He also told me about several other subdivisions: one along U.S.441, one adjacent to Bailey Estates, where the City had refused to allow an up-zoning to higher density for all the same reasons I state above.

I believe Mr. Ambrose wants to preserve the unique character of High Springs, but is also realistic in knowing you have to play the hand you were dealt.

I went to a candidate forum and one of the other candidates said High Springs needs better infrastructure before any new development is allowed. That sounds great but isn’t always possible, for reasons like the one above and the need to find funding for said infrastructure. I know that Ross Ambrose leaves no stone unturned in looking for funding sources aside from local tax revenue. The effort he puts into this job is Herculean.

Frankly I think we are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated, knowledgeable and hard-working commissioner. 

Stacey Breheny

High Springs, Florida

An election will be held in High Springs on Nov. 7. There are two seats up for election. Since this is an odd-numbered year, the turnout will be poor. Every registered voter in the city needs to read up on the candidates; do the research to see what each is for, and vote.

Things have been running smoothly in the city for some time. Voting for someone merely because they are new is not a good idea.

Ross Ambrose and Gloria James do their homework, are knowledgeable and make decisions for all of High Springs. They are not driven by politics but by what they think is best for the city. For the good of the city, let’s keep them doing what they’ve done so well. Just remember that you need to vote.

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, Florida

This letter is to express my support for Steve Tapanes and Andrew Miller for City of High Springs Commissioner.

I have watched several of the commissioner’s meetings on line and have noticed on several occasions that although the audience is jammed with people who are concerned about certain issues, that their concerns seldom make a difference in the decisions made because the decisions appear to have been made prior to the meetings.

I would like to see new blood on the board of commissioners as I feel the incumbents get in a rut and although they claim to have the best interests of the citizens in mind some of them don’t seem to be listening. The newer members seem to be the ones listening.

Steve and Andrew both have businesses in High Springs and I feel their freshness would more closely represent the majority of citizens’ current views.

It’s time for a change, time for the younger generation to have a say in what happens for High Springs’ future. Vote Steve Tapanes and Andrew Miller.

Leah Currier

High Springs, Florida

The High Springs Chamber of Commerce would like to send a special thank you to all our volunteers and local businesses who gave their time, talents, and treasures to bring our community together for the annual Fall Festival.

Please support these businesses and tell them thank you the next time you see them. Decades on Main & Renee;

Oliver & Dahlman; Thompson Flower Shop; The Birds Nest; High Springs Church of God; LifeSpring Church; Plantation Oaks Assisted Living & Memory Care; Dawn Cross, Photography; McDonald's in Alachua; Ronald McDonald House; Hardee's in High Springs; Hillary Cowart the Magic Man; Line Dancing Debbie; Bryan's Ace Hardware in High Springs; Winn-Dixie in High Springs; Fort White Garden & Produce; Jennifer Lee & Caleb Henderson, The Perfect Home; Troop 69, Boy Scouts; Willard's Restaurant & Lounge; BlueStar Grill; Nancy's Bake Shop; Chantels' Cakery; Station Bakery & Café; Tom & Sue Weller, Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe; High Springs Police Department; Aunt Lydia Springs, Cake; Louanne Rigano, Cake; Vella Miller, Ballon; Don Decker, Trains; Museum for being open during the Fall Festival hours

There are so many who came together to make this year's Fall Festival one our community will cherish for years to come.

I love our quaint little town with all its southern charm.

Sharon Decker

High Springs Chamber of Commerce

State
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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.
 “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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