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

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ALACHUA – A 51-year-old Micanopy woman has been sentenced to one year and seven days in state prison, followed by 13 years of probation, after pleading guilty to grand theft of over $20,000. Kari Lynn Adams was also ordered to pay more than $139,000 in restitution for funds stolen from her employer, the Hampton Inn in Alachua.

Adams was arrested on March 22, 2024, following an investigation into unauthorized use of multiple company credit cards. Over a 16-month period, she racked up more than $118,000 in personal purchases.

According to the arrest report, Adams used the company cards to fund “lavish dining experiences” across Florida, spending more than $2,800 on meals in 2022 alone. She also made significant purchases at retail and outdoor stores, including over $33,000 spent at Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sam’s Club, Lowe’s, Northern Tool, Ace Hardware, Home Depot, and Rural King.

Adams was initially charged with grand theft and engaging in a scheme to defraud. As part of a plea agreement, she entered an open plea to grand theft over $20,000, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in state prison. In exchange, the fraud charge was dropped.

Judge David Kreider sentenced Adams to just over a year in prison, followed by a 13-year probation period. She was also ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution to the insurance company covering her employer’s losses and $39,436 directly to the Hampton Inn. The repayments must be completed three months prior to the end of the probationary period.

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ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua County Arts Council has announced the return of its annual Artists Conference, scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2025. Now in its fourth year, the event aims to foster connections and learning within the local arts community.

The council is currently seeking presenters for the conference. Prospective speakers are encouraged to propose sessions that would engage and benefit the arts community. Each presentation should run between 30 to 60 minutes, including time for audience questions and answers.

Additionally, the council is welcoming sponsors to support the event. Both presentation and sponsorship applications can be found on the council’s website under the “Artists Conference” section at alachuacounty.us/Arts-Council. The deadline to submit applications is Jan. 31, 2025.

The conference aligns with the council's mission to enhance the quality of life for Alachua County residents by promoting arts exposure, supporting local artists, and expanding community resources for the arts.

For more details, interested individuals can contact Gina Peebles, Alachua County Assistant County Manager – Chief of Staff, at 352-538-8265 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Alachua County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2811 Commander Avery L. Owen (center) presented trophies and cash awards Dec. 12 to Ilo Pillari (left) and Isa Pillari as winners of the annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contests. / Photo by Michael P. Mauer special to Alachua County Today

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GAINESVILLE ‒ Two local siblings earned top honors from Alachua County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2811 as this year’s Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen winners.

Earning first in this year’s VOD competition is 17-year-old Isa Pillari from Newberry, Fla. Her brother, 13-year-old Ilo Pillari, got the top slot for the post’s Patriot’s Pen scholarship. Both students are home schooled by their parents, Pramod and Catherine Pillari.

Each winner received a $100 award and a trophy from VFW Post 2811 at the organization’s Dec. 12 meeting.  Annabell Zachritz, a 17-year-old senior at The Rock School, received a trophy and $75 as the post’s second place VOD contestant.

At the same meeting, the siblings read their essays to VFW Post 2811’s membership and auxiliary.

“The post membership and I were truly impressed with the quality and content of both their essays,” said Avery L. Owen, VFW Post 2811 commander. “As an organization of combat veterans, many of us were sincerely touched at the sentiment. It is good to know that the basic principles of freedom and democracy that we fought for are being cherished by young people in our community.”

The topic for this year’s VOD essay competition was ‘Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?’  Competitors for the Patriot’s Pen contest wrote to the theme of ‘My Voice in America’s Democracy’.

“I don’t think the students who participated this year could have written to these subjects any better than what they did,” said Owen, a retired master sergeant who served with the 3rd Bn, 20th Special Forces Group of the Florida Army National Guard. “I think they’ll do well at the next level.”

The combat veteran also added a personal reflection.

“They give me hope for the future,” said the VFW Post 2811 commander.

The winning VOD and Patriot’s Pen candidates will move to the next bracket at Florida VFW District 14. This is comprised of VFW posts from Lake City, Palatka, Lake Butler, Interlachen and Gainesville. If forwarded from there, entrants will earn a chance to compete at the VFW Department of Florida. Once advancing, winners will then vie at the VOD national level where the top laurels include a $30,000 scholarship.

Other VOD national scholarships range from $1,000 to $15,000, and the top winner from each state can earn a minimum scholarship of $1,000, plus an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

The top Patriot’s Pen competitors selected from each state can earn $50,000 in awards, as well as a top prize of $5,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

Both the VOD and Patriot’s Pen scholarships are open to all students from middle school through high school.

The VFW is observing its 125th anniversary this year. Those interested in VFW Post 2811 and its activities can call 352-376-7660.

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Editor’s Note: Michael P. Mauer is a life member of VFW Post 2811. He served as an Army photojournalist during Operation Desert Storm, and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal by Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf for his actions during the war. This year, Mauer won the Silver Award for top feature article in the VFW National Publications Contest. Email mikemauer@hotmail.com

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Nutcracker Classic Christmas Fantasy Brought to Life

ALACHUA/HIGH SPRINGS – Main Street in Alachua was a vibrant scene of holiday cheer on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, as the annual Christmas Parade, hosted by the Alachua Chamber of Commerce, took center stage with its Nutcracker theme. Families, friends, and community members turned out in large numbers to celebrate the magic of the season, marveling at elaborately decorated floats, festive performances, and, of course, Santa Claus himself.

Later that evening, the holiday spirit continued just down the road with the City of High Springs Twilight Christmas Parade, which also embraced the Nutcracker theme. The evening parade enchanted spectators with glowing lights, whimsical floats, and twinkling displays, bringing the Nutcracker wonderland to life under the stars and completing a day of magical holiday celebrations in both communities.

In Alachua, the air buzzed with anticipation as children eagerly lined the streets, their faces filled with excitement for the parade and the chance to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself. The crowd cheered as parade participants walked the parade route tossing sweet treats to spectators. Some children scrambled for candy while others gazed in awe at the dazzling holiday-themed creations.

The parade began along North Main Street and made its way across U.S. Highway 441, led by a police escort complete with sirens wailing and red and blue lights flashing. Alachua Police Chief Jesse Sandusky and High Springs Police Chief Antoine Sheppard joined in the festivities greeting onlookers and waving.

Adding to the hometown charm was the parade’s grand marshal, longtime Alachua resident and City of Alachua employee Cap Wilson, who waved to the crowd from a vintage blue convertible Mustang, accompanied by his wife, Holly. Behind them, the City of Alachua’s official float showcased scenes from the Nutcracker ballet that included larger than life nutcrackers, the mouse king and ballerinas in sparkling tutus, earning smiles and cheers as Alachua city commissioners joined the fun.

The event showcased local businesses, civic organizations, religious groups and schools, all stepping up to deliver festive cheer. Among the participants were Santa Fe Ford, Mi Apa Restaurant, MatchMaker Realty, Momentum Dance Academy, the Mebane High School Alumni Association, the Alachua Business League, Alachua Senior Cha Chas, Horizon Realty, Capital City Bank and members of the Hare Krishna community, along with scores more.

The parade also featured spirited performances by the High Springs Community School band, Mebane Middle School band and the Santa Fe High School Raider Regiment Marching Band, a crowd favorite, whose holiday-themed melodies captivated spectators. Dressed in seasonal costumes, dancers from the high school joined the performance, adding flair and movement to the procession.

Twirling batons, members of the All Stars Twirling Academy dazzled onlookers, while young athletes from the Santa Fe Babe Ruth Baseball team, the Santa Fe Soccer Academy and the Raider cheerleaders proudly showcased their community spirit. Volunteers, dressed as Santa’s elves and Nutcracker-themed characters, walked alongside the floats, handing out treats and spreading smiles.

Serving as parade judges were Horace Jenkins, Carol Richardson, and Wendy Hewett. At stake for parade entries were three prizes valued at $500, $300 and $200. Momentum Dance took 1st place, Alachua Business League came in 2nd place and Canvas Church wrapped up 3rd place.

As the floats approached the judge’s stage at the intersection of 148th Place and Main Street, parade MCs Ben Boukari, Jr. and Damon Messina kept the excitement alive, introducing each float and engaging the crowd with lively commentary.

The parade also included the well-known Alachua Parade Pooper Scoopers, Don James and Jovante Hayes of the Alachua Lions Club, who cheerfully followed the festively decorated horse entries, keeping the streets clean for the participants who followed.

The highlight of the parade came at the grand finale, as Santa Claus made his highly anticipated appearance atop a firetruck, waving joyfully to the children who called his name and waved back with excitement. For the young spectators, this magical moment sparked dreams of Christmas morning and the treasures waiting under their trees.

“This event truly captures the spirit of the season,” said a local resident. “It’s a reminder of the close-knit community we’re lucky to have here in Alachua.”

As the parade wrapped up and families began to disperse, the holiday spirit lingered. From the decorated floats to the costumed characters, the 2024 Christmas Parade was another resounding success, a true celebration of community and tradition.

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Christmas on Main Brings Festive Excitement and Holiday Cheer

ALACHUA ‒ Downtown Alachua turned into a winter wonderland on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, as crowds gathered for the much-anticipated annual Christmas tree lighting event. The second edition of “Christmas on Main Street,” a collaboration between the Alachua Chamber of Commerce, the City of Alachua, local businesses and civic organizations, brought festive cheer to residents and visitors alike with an evening packed with activities, live music, and holiday treats.

The festivities officially kicked off at 4:30 p.m., as Main Street buzzed with excitement. Families strolled through streets adorned with twinkling lights and garlands, while children enjoyed a variety of free activities ranging from crafting ornaments to face painting and playing in snow. At 6 p.m., the centerpiece of the evening—a towering Christmas tree near Skinner Park—was lit up in a spectacular ceremony.

Adding a touch of magic to the event, Santa and Mrs. Claus made a grand entrance on a shiny sleigh accompanied by “reindeer”, escorted by the Alachua Police Department. Santa led a jubilant countdown to the tree lighting before heading to his workshop on Main Street, where eager children shared their Christmas wishes and posed for photos.

The merriment extended across Main Street, where local businesses stayed open late, inviting revelers to browse unique offerings. Live music from Music Junction resonated through the crowds, adding to the festive ambiance. For adults, horse-drawn carriage rides provided a scenic way to take in the sights and sounds of the decorated downtown.

Eventgoers were treated to an array of refreshments, including hot cocoa, popcorn, cider, and pastries. Costumed characters, face painting by the Santa Fe High School Cheerleaders, candy handouts, a miniature train ride and bounce house were among the highlights for children, while activity stations delighted youngsters with holiday crafts and games.

At Main Street Theatre Park, the stage came alive with vibrant performances that enchanted the gathering crowds. The Alachua Elementary School Chorus filled the air with heartwarming melodies as proud parents and spectators watched with delight. Adding a theatrical flair, the Children’s Theater captivated the audience and left spectators smiling and applauding. The evening’s musical elegance was elevated by the spellbinding performance of violinist Shelby Adams, leaving listeners mesmerized.

Further down Main Street, a magical favorite was the sight of snowflakes swirling high in the air over Main Street in front of the Chamber of Commerce building, delighting giggling children who leapt and twirled beneath the snowy cascade. Behind the building, a bustling snow play yard became a winter wonderland, where youngsters tossed handfuls of snow and reveled in the rare, festive treat.

Sponsors such as the Alachua Chamber, Dollar General Distribution, Walmart Distribution, Visit Gainesville, City of Alachua, and Florida Portable Services, alongside numerous local businesses and organizations, contributed to the evening's success. Activity sponsors included Good Life Station, Mi Apa, Alachua Flowers, the Santa Fe High School Cheerleaders and the Alachua Police Department, among many others.

The night was an undeniable triumph, transforming downtown Alachua into a scene straight out of a storybook and leaving families with cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. The joyous atmosphere, filled with laughter, music, and the twinkling glow of festive lights, ignited the holiday spirit.

Summing up the magic of the evening, one awe-struck youngster exclaimed with wide-eyed wonder, “This is the most fun, ever!” Their words echoed the sentiments of countless children and adults alike, who found themselves swept up in the enchantment of the season and the heartfelt charm of Alachua’s celebration.

“This tradition is truly the heart of our Christmas season,” said Alachua Chamber of Commerce President Adam Boukari. “It’s about bringing our community together, creating magical moments, and giving families—especially children—experiences they’ll cherish for a lifetime.” Boukari continued, “Many thanks are due to the hard work and dedication of Alachua Chamber of Commerce members, our local businesses and the City of Alachua.”

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A.L. Mebane High School 2024 Homecoming Reunion

ALACHUA ‒ While many Americans spent the day after Thanksgiving recovering from hearty meals or braving the Black Friday shopping crowds, a vibrant tradition was unfolding in Alachua. Alumni of A.L. Mebane High School, proudly wearing their green and gold, came together for the annual A.L. Mebane High School Homecoming Reunion. This cherished event has grown into a cornerstone celebration of community, history, and school spirit.

Since its inaugural Homecoming event in 1996, the A.L. Mebane High School Alumni Association has worked tirelessly to preserve the school’s rich legacy. This year’s celebration, held from Friday, Nov. 29, through the weekend, featured a variety of events aimed at honoring the past while fostering connections within the present community.

The reunion brought together alumni from graduating classes in a friendly rivalry to showcase their pride and preeminence. This year’s special recognition was for the classes of 1957, 1959, 1964, 1969 and 1974. Beyond nostalgia, the gathering underscores a broader mission: to instill community pride, maintain connections, and support future generations through scholarships and community projects.

On Saturday, Nov. 30, the streets of downtown Alachua buzzed with excitement as spectators gathered along Main Street for the annual Homecoming parade. Festivities began with a police escort, complete with flashing lights and wailing sirens, as floats and decorated cars rolled down the street to the cheers of onlookers.

Alumni classes showcased creative floats or festively adorned vehicles, many tossing candy to thrilled children. Community organizations and local churches joined the parade, adding to the celebration’s inclusive spirit. Dignitaries and homecoming queens waved to the crowd, embodying the pride and unity that define this yearly tradition.

But the annual A.L. Mebane High School Homecoming Reunion was more than just a parade—it was a weekend-long celebration brimming with activities that united alumni, families, and the community in a shared spirit of pride and camaraderie. In addition to Saturday’s parade, attendees were treated to a variety of events, including the Mr. and Ms. Alumni Pageant, a Live Auction, and the highly anticipated Green and Gold Social.

The A.L. Mebane High School Alumni Association goes beyond reunion celebrations, engaging in year-round fundraisers and community projects across Alachua and surrounding areas. Funds raised during the Homecoming weekend directly contribute to the association’s scholarship program, which supports local students in pursuing higher education.

The Homecoming Reunion has become a vital tradition, weaving together alumni, families, and community members in a celebration of shared history and pride. For those who donned green and gold, the weekend is a testament to enduring bonds and the unshakable spirit of the Hornets.

As the final notes of the parade faded and the weekend’s events came to a close, the alumni association reflected on another successful year of honoring their alma mater’s legacy and strengthening the community. With an eye toward the future, the Hornets are already planning next year’s celebration, ensuring the legacy of A.L. Mebane High School continues to thrive.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marilyn Vanover

Alachua Business League

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

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

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

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

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

Do you see a pattern?

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

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

Ross Ambrose

High Springs Resident

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To fellow High Springs voters:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alvalyn Lancaster

High Springs, Florida 32643

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, FL 32643

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We wish to express our gratitude to:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bob & Linda Jones

High Springs, Florida

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Let me waste no time in conveying the most important part of this message.

Congratulations to Scott Jamison for winning the special election for High Springs City Commission seat #5.  You did a great job and will serve the people well.

With that out of the way, let’s move into an analysis of exactly what this week’s election means for our quaint little town and exactly how it happened.

Jamison enjoyed a comfortable win – 59 percent to Ann Carter's 41percent – in an unusually timed spring special election, with perhaps, the greatest victory, a high voter turnout on par with the city’s usual November elections.

Not to belittle the process, but that’s a bit surprising considering the contest was for a mere seven months remaining on a commission seat having virtually no impact on the stronghold majority that is Mayor Dean Davis, Vice-Mayor Bob Barnas, and Commissioner Linda Gestrin.

These factors considered, one would have predicted lackluster turnout numbers due to a perceived hopeless electorate.

But the opposite occurred, and we find ourselves asking why.

The answer is simple.  Carter was openly endorsed by the same majority responsible for the insane antics High Springs has become famous for in recent times.  Whether it was financial support, or even sitting commissioners holding campaign signs, Carter received the blessing from the current leaders, and by her own words admitted she would govern in the same manner.

And it was obvious the same small group supporting the current nonsense was letting the community know that Carter was their anointed candidate – misleading endorsements by self-appointed community church leaders, or even the usual attack-dogs like Robyn Rush spreading falsehoods about Jamison’s candidacy.

Think I’m wrong? Take a look at the facts for yourself.

A special city election that doesn’t swing majority control, featuring two publicly unknown candidates with little information about their platforms, spawns an unexpected, high turnout, with voters rejecting the status quo candidate.

Not to belittle Mr. Jamison, because I believe him to be an honest, family oriented man who will serve his city well, but I believe this election had more to do with the voters telling the current commission their methods will not be tolerated.

It’s a rebuke of sorts, and Jamison just happened to be the messenger sent to deliver it to the commission.

And if the message isn’t received this time, you can bet the public will be sending a few more messengers come November.

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