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Alachua elected officials and city staff serve food to diners during the “Stick a Fork in Cancer” fundraiser held March 5, 2026, at Mi Apa Latin Café in Alachua. The annual event supports the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, with a portion of the day’s restaurant proceeds donated to cancer research and patient services. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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Shoppers browse vendor booths at the Alachua County Farmers Market at its new home in San Felasco Tech City. The more than 50-year-old market is now in full swing at the Tech City location, operating Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon. / Photo special to alachua County Today

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Structural roof and stabilization work is underway at the historic Priest Theatre in downtown High Springs. The City of High Springs has undertaken repairs to address long-standing deterioration at the 1910-era landmark. / Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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Alachua celebrates the ribbon cutting for Theatre Park. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

The BBQ Contest Grand Champion award went to Ferley's BBQ & More (above) / Photoby JODI REBECCA SPURLIN special to Alachua County Today

Representatives of Okito America accept the Small Business of the Year award at the 2026 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala, which drew approximately 750 attendees to Legacy Park./Photo special to Alachua County Today

Pictured in no particular order: The men’s first-place team Joe Thigpen, Ken Vejraska, Ken Radcliffe and Ben Love / Photo special to Alachua County Today

Community members attend the City of Alachua’s 21st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: I Pledge Community Event on Jan. 19 at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center, featuring music, remarks and fellowship honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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HIGH SPRINGS – Artists will once again take to the banks of North Florida’s springs and rivers this month as the 9th Annual Santa Fe Springs Plein Air Paintout returns, inviting the public to watch painters at work and experience the region’s landscapes through art.

The weeklong event will feature 18 artists painting en plein air, outdoors and on location, across sites along the Santa Fe River, capturing the area’s distinctive springs, cypress-lined waterways and natural scenery.

Organizers say the annual paintout has grown into a signature regional arts event, drawing both experienced painters and curious onlookers interested in seeing the creative process unfold in real time.

The public will have three opportunities to observe the artists during designated viewing days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at area parks, including Rum Island Springs County Park on April 15, Poe Springs Park on April 16 and O’Leno State Park on April 17. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the artists, ask questions and learn more about plein air techniques.

While the paintout is free to attend, standard park admission fees apply at each location.

The event will culminate in a public reception and exhibit at Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies on April 18 from 5 to 8 p.m., where completed works will be displayed and available for purchase. The exhibit will remain on display through May 17.

Proceeds from the event will also support conservation efforts, with 10 percent of all art sales benefiting Our Santa Fe River, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Santa Fe River and its surrounding ecosystem. The paintout is sponsored by Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies and Visit Gainesville, Alachua County. Event maps and additional information are available through the gallery.

Organizers say the combination of art, public access and environmental awareness continues to define the event, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience North Florida’s natural beauty from a new perspective.

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Photo by RILEY APPLEBEE special to Alachua County Today

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ALACHUA – A rain-soaked start could not dampen what organizers described as a weekend defined by turnout, community spirit and back-to-back events across the city, as residents gathered to celebrate Easter with concerts, wellness activities and a popular egg hunt.

The weekend opened with the launch of Alachua’s downtown concert series at Skinner Park, where steady rain failed to deter performers or attendees. Organizers said the show continued as planned, setting the tone for four additional consecutive concerts scheduled in the coming weeks.

City leaders and volunteers noted the strong turnout despite weather challenges, calling it an early sign of momentum for the series.

Families visiting the Market on Main were greeted by the Easter Bunny along with representatives from Step Stronger, a community-focused wellness initiative promoting healthy living and engagement. The group’s outreach tied into broader national observances, including National Minority Health Month and National Walking Day.

That effort continued Saturday at Gerald Criswell Park, where participants took part in a 3.1-mile walk through historic Alachua. Organizers said the event aimed to encourage physical activity while also highlighting local businesses and fostering community connections.

The weekend concluded with one of the city’s most anticipated traditions — the Easter egg hunt at Hal Brady Recreation Complex. Children spread across the fields collecting eggs, prizes and refreshments, while families gathered for what many described as a highlight of the holiday weekend.

Event organizers credited the success of the weekend to a wide network of volunteers and community partners, including the A.L. Mebane Alumni Association, whose members helped coordinate activities and support logistics.

Local businesses also played a key role, contributing sponsorships and resources that helped expand programming across multiple venues.

With strong attendance across all events, from the rain-tested concert kickoff to the packed egg hunt, organizers said the weekend reflects growing community engagement and sets the stage for future events throughout the spring.

Plans are already underway to build on this year’s success, with organizers expressing interest in expanding activities and participation for next year’s Easter weekend.

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ALACHUA – A 22-year-old Gainesville man was arrested early April 1, 2026, on drug and firearm charges after allegedly attempting to flee a traffic stop, according to police.

An officer with the Alachua Police Department stopped a vehicle at 12:36 a.m. on U.S. Highway 441 after clocking it traveling 71 mph in a 45-mph zone. The driver, identified as Travis James Wheeler, admitted he had been speeding and apologized, the officer reported.

During the stop, the officer reported smelling marijuana coming from the vehicle and seeing marijuana “shake” in plain view on the center console. Wheeler provided a medical marijuana card, but the officer reported that neither Wheeler nor his passenger had valid authorization to possess marijuana at the time.

According to the report, Wheler then moved from the front of the patrol vehicle back toward his car, got inside and started it, placing his hand on the gear shifter as if preparing to leave. A second officer ordered him to return to the patrol vehicle, but Wheeler allegedly ignored commands and continued trying to reenter and operate the vehicle.

Officers removed Wheeler from the car and arrested him on a charge of resisting an officer without violence.

A search of the vehicle yielded about 30 grams of marijuana in a bag in the back seat and a Glock 26 handgun with an extended magazine in the center console, loaded and readily accessible, according to police.

Wheeler is charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana and resisting an officer without violence.

Court records show no prior convictions. He was arrested in September 2024 on a marijuana possession charge following a traffic stop, but that case does not appear in available court records.

Judge Adam Lee set bail at $100,000.

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ALACHUA – Police are investigating an overnight shooting that damaged a business, several vehicles and a nearby home but caused no injuries, according to the Alachua Police Department.

Officers responded about 11:12 p.m. April 5, 2026, to two calls reporting roughly 10 gunshots in the 7400 block of Northwest 128th Place in the Oaks of Hague subdivision. Police searched the area but did not locate any people, vehicles or evidence at that time.

At about 10:20 a.m. April 6, the owner of Trinity Car Sales LLC, 12559 N.W. U.S. Highway 441, reported that the business’s front door had been shattered.

Responding officers found multiple bullet holes in the building and in several vehicles on the property, police said. The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Forensics Unit assisted in processing the scene.

While officers were still on scene, police received a report from a nearby residence behind the business. The homeowner reported bullet holes in the house, and officers recovered projectiles from the structure as evidence.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information or video is asked to contact Detective Williams at 386-462-1396 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Alachua County Crime Stoppers Inc.

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NEWBERRY – A 46-year-old Newberry woman was sentenced to 10 years in prison after a jury found her guilty of burglarizing a former employer’s business while wearing a mask to conceal her identity.

According to a sworn complaint filed by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Enos Nail Salon, 13005 S.W. First Road, Suite 133, was burglarized June 29, 2023, and about $700 was taken.

Investigators said Carrie Elizabeth Webb, who had been fired from the business about a month earlier, was familiar with its cash-handling procedures.

Surveillance video showed Webb approaching the business wearing a mask, hoodie and gloves, entering a code into a key box and retrieving a key, according to the report. She then unlocked the door, went directly to a drawer containing a bank bag and took $650 before removing an additional $50 from the cash register. The incident lasted about two minutes, investigators said.

By the time the complaint was filed in April 2024, Webb had moved to New Smyrna Beach. She was arrested in St. Johns County about a week later and released on bail.

In March 2026, prosecutors formally charged Webb with burglary of an unoccupied structure while wearing a mask. A theft charge was not pursued.

A jury found Webb guilty April 1, 2026. Judge Robert Groeb sentenced her the same day to 10 years in state prison. Webb has filed an appeal.

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ALACHUA – The City of Alachua picked up two separate honors during its April 6, 2026, meeting, one tied to employee wellness and another tied to financial reporting, giving city staff a pair of public wins for work that usually happens behind the scenes.

The first came early in the meeting, when Human Resources Director Tara Malone told commissioners the city had again received the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Hometown Health Award. FMIT representatives said this was Alachua’s fifth consecutive year receiving the award and its third straight year receiving the program’s $25,000 check. “Alachua actually is the only city across the entire state that has gotten it all three years that we’ve been giving out the $25,000,” Lindsay Fisher, hometown health marketing manager with the Florida League of Cities, told commissioners.

Fisher said the city qualified by keeping its loss ratio below 80 percent and by posting strong participation in the program’s wellness tiers. She said 67 percent of employees took part in Tier 1 and 36 percent in Tier 2. Under the program guidelines, award winners can receive up to $25,000, equal to 1 percent of premium, if they meet the required loss-ratio and participation thresholds. “Keeping your loss ratio down under 80 percent is no easy task,” Fisher said, calling the city’s three-year run “fantastic.”

Later in the meeting, Finance and Administrative Services Director Robert Bonetti told commissioners the city had also received its 15th consecutive award from the Government Finance Officers Association for the annual financial report it submits for review. Bonetti said the city keeps using outside feedback to improve the document. “Every year they make comments, and every year we respond to those comments and hopefully improve our document year to year,” he said.

That recognition came as commissioners accepted the city’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and management letter for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2025. Agenda materials state the city received an unmodified, or “clean,” opinion on its 2025 financial statements, the 23rd consecutive year it has received that distinction, and that there were no current-year written comments. The same materials say Alachua has received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 15 consecutive years, covering fiscal years 2010 through 2024. The FY2025 annual report itself includes the certificate for the fiscal year ended Sept. 30, 2024, and says the new report will be submitted for another review.

Ron Whitesides of Purvis Gray and Company underscored the audit result for commissioners. “That is a clean opinion. That’s what you want to get,” Whitesides said. “That’s the highest form of assurance your auditor can give you.”

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TALLAHASSEE – United States Attorney John P. Heekin highlighted a year of expanded prosecutions, civil recoveries and appellate work in a summary of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida’s accomplishments during 2025.

In announcing the annual summary, Heekin said the office advanced the priorities of the U.S. Department of Justice while focusing on public safety and enforcement across northern Florida.

“This past year was momentous for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida as we capably answered the calls to action by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi while fulfilling the vital mission of the Department of Justice,” Heekin said. “Through our work, we have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the safety and well-being of our communities.”

Heekin credited partnerships with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and said those relationships would continue to be strengthened in 2026 “as we strive toward delivering safe streets for our residents.”

Criminal Division activity

The U.S. Attorney’s Office divides its federal casework among three divisions: Criminal, Civil and Appellate.

According to the annual summary, the Criminal Division played a central role in enforcement efforts during 2025 through Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at addressing illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and combating violent crime, drug trafficking and human trafficking.

During calendar year 2025, prosecutors in the Northern District of Florida reported:

  • 391 criminal defendants charged;
  • 293 guilty pleas entered;
  • 35 criminal jury trials conducted;
  • 984 direct contacts with crime victims; and
  • 9,818 written notifications issued to crime victims.

The office said those efforts focused on communities impacted by illegal drugs and criminal violence.

Civil Division recoveries

The Civil Division represents the United States in civil litigation, defends federal agencies and employees, and pursues affirmative cases to recover funds lost to fraud or improper claims. The division also enforces criminal and civil monetary judgments through its Financial Litigation Program.

In 2025, the Civil Division reported:

  • Representation of federal agencies in 53 newly filed defensive cases;
  • Recovery of $1.7 million through settlements resolving false claims against the federal government;
  • Collection of $6.4 million in criminal money judgments;
  • Nearly $4 million applied toward victim restitution through asset forfeiture restoration; and
  • More than $1 million distributed to state and local law enforcement agencies through the Equitable Sharing Program.

Appellate work

The Appellate Division represents the government in appeals before the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. During 2025, the division handled:

  • 105 appeals, including 93 criminal and 12 civil appeals;
  • 113 responses to post-conviction motions; and
  • 80 appellate decisions affirming district court rulings in favor of the government.

Looking ahead

“The substantial accomplishments of 2025 are merely the foundation upon which we will build even greater achievements in 2026,” Heekin said.

He added that expectations set by the president and attorney general call for continued focus on public safety and oversight of federal programs.

“In 2026, we will remain tireless in our pursuit of justice on behalf of our citizens and committed to making the Northern District of Florida the absolute best – and safest – place in America to live, work and raise a family,” Heekin said.

More information about the Northern District of Florida’s responsibilities and divisions is available through the Department of Justice.

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

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida TaxWatch released a second report, Save Our Taxpayers – Property Tax Relief Must be Accomplished Equitably, as a follow up to its original report Options to Eliminate or Reduce the Property Tax Burden on Florida Homeowners primer, as the 2026 Legislative Session commences. This report examines the Florida House of Representative’s proposals, provides the fiscal impact of each, and calls for a ‘Save Our Taxpayers’ ballot amendment for equitable property tax relief.

Property taxes are by far the largest source of tax revenue for Florida’s local governments, generating $59.2 billion in FY2025-26 for counties, school districts, municipalities, and special districts, and that amount is rising rapidly. Of this total, more than $20 billion is paid by Florida homeowners. This revenue funds critical government services such as public safety, fire protection, education, and sanitation.

Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Jeff Kottkamp said, “While the Governor and many in the Legislature want to bring a property tax relief proposal to the voters in 2026, they are far from a consensus of what that proposal will look like. Property tax levies, fueled by rising property values, are increasing rapidly in Florida. They have more than doubled in the last 10 years, including 50 percent growth in the last four years. In turn, many local government budgets have dramatically increased over the last 10 years.

“Providing property tax relief to Florida taxpayers is commendable and the focus on homestead property by the Governor and the Legislature is understandable. But putting a proposal on the 2026 ballot to eliminate all property taxes, without also addressing ever escalating local government spending, is not advisable.

“Florida TaxWatch provides six recommendations, with actionable items, calling for a ‘Save Our Taxpayers’ amendment to replace the current inadequate 10 percent non-homestead assessment cap with one that matches the Save Our Homes cap of the lesser of three percent or inflation for all property owners. We look forward to working with policymakers to ensure property tax relief is equitable for all of Florida’s hardworking taxpayers.”

Those who have been bearing the brunt of rising property taxes should not be forgotten. This includes renters, businesses, people renovating or building an addition to their home, people moving to Florida, and new homeowners. Almost all of the proposals before the Legislature would increase the tax shift from homestead to non-homestead property that already stands at more than $10 billion and growing.

The time is right for a “Save Our Taxpayers” cap to be created, limiting the increases in assessments for both homestead and non-homestead property at the same growth rate. This has been a long-standing Florida TaxWatch recommendation and its research helped to get the constitutional amendment on the ballot that created the 10 percent homestead cap in 2008.

Based on the findings in this report, Florida TaxWatch recommends:

  1. The Legislature should not attempt to put a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot to eliminate all property taxes, even if it is limited to non-school property tax levies. Undertaking such a major change in Florida’s tax system should not be attempted without a comprehensive reform plan, including local government efficiency and fiscal responsibility, ensuring the provision of critical government services, and safeguards against the shifting taxes to non-homestead properties.
  1. A “Save Our Taxpayers” amendment should be put before the voters to replace the current inadequate 10 percent non-homestead assessment cap with one that matches the Save Our Homes cap of the lesser of three percent or inflation. This would help stop the current tax shift and ensure that all taxpayers are treated more fairly.
  1. The Legislature should create an additional exemption for new homeowners—for example, 25 percent of the new home’s initial assessed value. This could be structured so that the new homeowner would have an immediate 25 percent reduction in value which would then be phased out (dollar for dollar) as their Save Our Homes differential increases. This would reduce the cost of buying a home, especially in the first year, helping more Floridians achieve the goal of homeownership.
  1. If the Legislature wants to create a new homestead exemption, it should consider making the amount equal to a percentage of the median home value in the county where the home is located. Instead of a the same “one size fits all” amount for all homes statewide, tying the size of the exemption to each home’s value would make the tax savings relatively greater for those in the county with lower home values and therefore likely lower incomes. By acknowledging the difference in median home values between counties, it could help fiscally constrained counties deal with the revenue loss.
  1. Any new property tax benefit for homestead property only should be accompanied by a requirement that local governments adopt the rolled-back rate after adding back any taxable value lost to the new exemption, at least temporarily. This would ensure that tax burden is not shifted to other properties, but also that taxpayers receive the full value of the exemption the Legislature (and voters) expected.
  1. The Legislature should reform the Value Adjustment Board system, especially increasing the independence of VABs from the local officials that spend the money. A three percent success rate for taxpayers challenging their assessments (for people outside of Miami-Dade County) does not indicate a fair system.

Florida TaxWatch also examines the Florida House of Representatives’ seven proposed constitutional amendments and one statutory change, including the fiscal impact of each, which may be found on pages 5 through 8 here.

About Florida TaxWatch
As an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit government watchdog and taxpayer research institute, and the trusted “eyes and ears” of Florida taxpayers for more than 45 years, Florida TaxWatch (FTW) works to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. Its research recommends productivity enhancements and explains the statewide impact of fiscal and economic policies and practices on taxpayers and businesses. FTW is supported by its membership via voluntary, tax-deductible donations and private grants. Donations provide a solid, lasting foundation that has enabled FTW to bring about a more effective, responsive government that is more accountable to, and productive for, the taxpayers it has served since 1979. For more information, please visit www.floridataxwatch.org.

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

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis joined First Lady Casey DeSantis and Mayo Clinic President and CEO Dr. Kent Thielen to announce that Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville is launching the first carbon ion therapy program in America and the only carbon ion therapy program in the Western Hemisphere.

“Our administration is committed to fighting cancer by making targeted investments in innovative therapies that have the potential to save lives," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "During my time as governor, we’ve increased funding for cancer research and treatment programs by more than 114 percent. The Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program has strengthened Florida’s position as a national leader in cancer research and innovation. We’re proud that Mayo Clinic chose Florida as the home for this groundbreaking initiative, and we look forward to seeing how these cutting-edge therapies give hope to patients fighting some of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers.”

In June 2025, Mayo Clinic opened the 228,000-square-foot Duan Family Building in Jacksonville to expand cancer treatment and research. The new facility will be uniquely designed to deliver both carbon ion therapy and proton therapy, including the ability to treat the same tumor with either approach for greater precision.

“Under the Governor’s leadership, Florida continues to lead in innovation, and today at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, we are proving that this leadership extends beyond our state, transforming not only how we care for Floridians, but also how the rest of America approaches cancer treatment,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “This state-of-the-art technology was made possible, in part, through funding from the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program.”

Mayo Clinic expects proton therapy to begin in 2027 and carbon ion therapy to begin in 2028. Patients will benefit from expanded care well before then through additional services already being offered at the facility, including photon therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, advanced imaging, and other specialized cancer services.

Carbon ion therapy is one of the most advanced radiation treatment technologies in the world, designed for hard-to-treat and treatment-resistant cancers. Until now, the therapy has only been available at a limited number of centers in Asia and Europe.

Florida continues to invest heavily in cancer research and treatment. Since 2019, Florida has invested more than $1 billion, increasing cancer program funding by more than 114% and committing nearly $218 million for cancer research in 2025 alone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Art Contest Details

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

Essay Contest Details

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

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

Excellence in Education Award

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

How to Enter

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

Volunteer Florida

Native American Heritage Month Committee

1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250

Tallahassee, Florida 32308

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Acetaminophen — best known today by the brand name Tylenol — is one of the most widely used pain relievers in the world. But its path from laboratory discovery to medicine cabinet staple spans more than a century and includes missteps, rediscovery and one William Garst HSof the most significant public health crises in modern pharmaceutical history.

Early discovery and setbacks

Acetaminophen was first synthesized in 1878 by chemist Harmon Northrop Morse, but its medical potential was not immediately recognized.

In the late 1800s, researchers began exploring related compounds as treatments for fever. In 1886, German physicians Arnold Cahn and Paul Hepp inadvertently discovered the fever-reducing properties of acetanilide after administering it by mistake while treating a patient. The drug was later marketed under the name Antifebrin.

Concerns about side effects soon led scientists to investigate alternatives. Phenacetin was introduced in 1887, and acetaminophen itself was used for pain and fever by 1893. However, early concerns — later determined to be unfounded — limited its adoption.

It was not until the 1940s that researchers determined both acetanilide and phenacetin were metabolized by the body into acetaminophen, identifying it as the true source of their therapeutic effects.

The rise of Tylenol

Renewed interest in acetaminophen grew in the 1950s, particularly as researchers sought safer alternatives to aspirin, which was associated with stomach irritation and other risks.

In 1955, McNeil Laboratories introduced Tylenol Elixir for Children, the first single-ingredient acetaminophen product marketed under the now-familiar brand name. The name “Tylenol” was derived from the drug’s chemical structure.

Initially available by prescription, Tylenol gained over-the-counter status in 1960, significantly expanding its reach. Its positioning as a safer option for children and adults helped drive widespread adoption.

A crisis that reshaped the industry

Tylenol’s dominance was challenged in 1982 during a crisis that would permanently change pharmaceutical safety standards.

Seven people in the Chicago area died after ingesting Extra Strength Tylenol capsules that had been laced with potassium cyanide after leaving the manufacturing facility. The incident prompted a nationwide recall of approximately 31 million bottles.

In response, manufacturer Johnson & Johnson implemented sweeping safety measures, including the introduction of tamper-resistant packaging and new pill designs such as the caplet, which is more difficult to alter than traditional capsules.

The incident led to federal action, including legislation making product tampering a crime and the establishment of U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines requiring tamper-evident packaging for over-the-counter medications.

A global staple

Today, acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide for pain relief and fever reduction. Its widespread availability and long track record have made it a standard recommendation in both clinical and household settings.

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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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Neuropathy is essentially a “glitch” in your body’s electrical system. It occurs when nerves — usually the peripheral nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord — become damaged or destroyed.

William Garst HS
Instead of sending clear signals to your brain, these damaged nerves might send “phantom” pain signals, or stop sending signals altogether. It often feels like tingling, burning, or a numb “pins and needles” sensation, typically starting in the hands or feet.

Common Medications for Neuropathy

Treating neuropathy is usually a two-front war: managing the pain and addressing the underlying cause (like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies). Because “normal” painkillers like ibuprofen often don't touch nerve pain, doctors usually turn to these categories:

Anticonvulsants (Seizure Meds)

These are often the first line of defense. They work by "calming down" the overactive nerve cells that are firing off pain signals.

  • Gabapentin (Neurontin): Very common; helps dampen the intensity of nerve firing.
  • Pregabalin (Lyrica): Similar to Gabapentin but often works faster and is more easily absorbed.

Antidepressants

You don't have to be depressed to take these for neuropathy. They interfere with the chemical processes in your brain and spinal cord that cause you to feel pain.

  • SNRIs (e.g., Duloxetine/Cymbalta): Often used for diabetic neuropathy.
  • Tricyclic Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline): Older meds that are very effective for nerve pain, though they can cause drowsiness.

Topical Treatments

If the pain is localized to a specific spot, sometimes it's better to treat the skin directly rather than taking a pill.

  • Lidocaine Patches: Numb the area temporarily.
  • Capsaicin Cream: Derived from chili peppers; it can actually “exhaust” the pain messengers in your nerves, though it might sting at first.

Pain Relievers

  • OTC Meds: Acetaminophen or NSAIDs (Advil/Aleve) might help with mild symptoms but are generally less effective for deep nerve damage.
  • Opioids: Generally considered a last resort due to the risk of addiction and the fact that they aren't always effective for chronic nerve pain.

              Prosper and be in health.

 

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

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William Garst HSUsing an inhaler seems straightforward, but it’s actually a high-precision task. If the technique isn't quite right, the medication often ends up hitting the back of your throat instead of reaching your lungs where it’s needed.

Here is a guide to help you master the puff.

The Pre-Game Checklist

Before you even take a breath, make sure the device is ready to perform.

 

  • Check the Dose Counter: It sounds obvious, but many people keep “puffing” an empty canister. If it’s in the red or at zero, it's time for a replacement.
  • Shake it Up: Most Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs) are suspensions. Shake the inhaler for 5 seconds to mix the medicine with the propellant. (Note: Dry Powder Inhalers do not need shaking).
  • Prime the Pump: If you haven’t used the inhaler in a few days (or if it’s brand new), spray it twice into the air to ensure the next dose is full strength.

Perfecting the Technique

The goal is to create a clear “highway” for the mist or powder to travel down.

For Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs - the “L” shaped ones)

  1. Exhale Fully: Breathe out away from the inhaler until your lungs feel empty. This creates space for the medication.
  2. Posture Matters: Sit up straight or stand. Tilt your chin up slightly to straighten the airway.
  3. The Slow Sip: Start inhaling slowly and deeply just as you press the canister. Think of it like a long, steady straw sip, not a quick gasp.
  4. The 10-Second Hold: Hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable) to let the particles settle deep in the lungs.

For Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs - like Diskus or Ellipta)

  • The Quick Snap: Unlike MDIs, DPIs require a quick, forceful breath to “suck” the powder out.
  • Keep it Dry: Never exhale into a DPI, as the moisture from your breath can clump the powder.

Pro-Tips for Better Results

Tip

Why it Matters

Use a Spacer

For MDIs, a spacer (valved holding chamber) catches the “mist” so you can breathe it in naturally. It's often more effective than "open mouth" techniques.

The 60-Second Rule

If you need two puffs of the same med, wait about one minute between them. This allows the lungs to open slightly from the first puff, making the second more effective. This is not true for inhaled corticosteroids and unlikely to make a difference with albuterol in most cases

Rinse and Spit

If your inhaler contains a steroid (preventer), always rinse your mouth with water and spit it out afterward to prevent oral thrush (a yeast infection).

Maintenance & Storage

  • Clean the Plastic: Once a week, remove the metal canister and wash the plastic actuator with warm water. Let it air dry. Clogged nozzles lead to uneven doses.
  • Temperature Control: Don't leave inhalers in a hot car. Extreme heat can cause the canister to burst or the medication to degrade.

Common Mistake to Avoid

The “Tongue Block”: Make sure your tongue is on the floor of your mouth. If your tongue is up, it acts like a shield, and the medicine just sticks to it instead of going down your windpipe.

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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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Managing glaucoma requires a commitment to a daily routine. Because glaucoma is often “silent” (meaning you won't feel your eye pressure rising), the medications are your primary defense against permanent vision loss.

William Garst HS
Here are five essential things every patient should know about glaucoma medications:

  1. Consistency is Your Most Powerful Tool

Glaucoma eye drops only work for a specific window of time (usually 12 to 24 hours). If you skip a dose, your eye pressure can spike, causing “silent” damage to the optic nerve.

  • The Goal: Maintain a steady level of medication in your eye around the clock.
  • Pro-Tip: Tie your drop schedule to a daily habit, like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee, to ensure you never miss a dose.
  1. Proper Technique Prevents “Body-Wide” Side Effects

Many patients don't realize that eye drops can enter the bloodstream through the tear ducts, potentially affecting your heart or lungs. You can minimize this using a technique called Punctal Occlusion:

  • After putting in a drop, close your eyes gently (do not squeeze or blink rapidly).
  • Use your finger to press firmly on the inner corner of your eye (near the bridge of your nose) for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • This keeps the medicine in your eye and prevents it from draining into your throat and bloodstream.
  1. The “Five-Minute Rule” for Multiple Drops

If your doctor prescribes more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5 minutes between them.

  • Why? Your eye can only hold about one-sixth of a single drop at a time. If you put the second drop in too quickly, it will simply wash out the first one before it has a chance to be absorbed, making your treatment less effective.
  1. Side Effects Are Common — and Manageable

Don't be alarmed if your eyes sting, turn red, or feel “gritty” when you first start a new medication.

  • Expect Local Changes: Some drops (Prostaglandins) can cause your eyelashes to grow longer or even permanently darken the color of your iris (the colored part of your eye).
  • Monitor Systemic Effects: Beta-blocker drops can sometimes slow your heart rate or worsen asthma. Always tell your eye doctor about your full medical history, especially heart or lung conditions.
  • Refrigeration Trick: If you have trouble feeling if the drop actually landed in your eye, try keeping the bottle in the fridge. The cold sensation makes it much easier to tell if you’ve “hit the target.”
  1. They Don't Make Your Vision Better (But They Keep It)

One of the hardest parts of glaucoma treatment is that the medication doesn't improve your sight or make your eyes feel better — it simply preserves the vision you still have.

  • Stay the Course: You may feel like the drops aren't “doing anything” because you don't see a difference, but they are working behind the scenes to prevent blindness.
  • Never Stop Suddenly: Abruptly stopping glaucoma medication can cause a dangerous “rebound” spike in eye pressure.

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

1. Maintain a Comprehensive Medication List

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

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

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

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

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

3. Take Your Medication Exactly as Prescribed

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

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

4. Use a Single Pharmacy

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

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

5. Store and Dispose of Medication Safely

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

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

6. Never Share or Borrow Prescription Medication

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

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

Prosper and be in health.

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

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

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

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

Cheyanne Costilla, Executive Director

Florida Commission on Human Relations

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Thank you, Alachua County Commissioner Mary Helen Wheeler for stepping in to fill the leadership void in High Springs during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Others whose concerns for our citizens and whose efforts produced results were Scott and Lynn Jamison and former Assistant City Manager Bruce Gillingham, who was working from Tallahassee.

Their collective efforts produced the massive response Sunday from the energy and tree companies.

Disorganized chaos is what happens when a person from New York without any prior city manager experience is hired to run a Florida city.

What is seriously lacking now in High Springs is institutional knowledge, established peer contacts, a clear and effective emergency management plan and timely information being imparted to residents.

Where were the shelters, the portable bathrooms, the charging stations, the city workers clearing streets? Some of this eventually happened but only in response to complaints.

Thankfully we have a way to remedy this demonstrated lack of planning, preparation and action in just over a month through the November elections.

Sue Weller has the necessary institutional knowledge, well developed peer contacts all over the United States and the experience as a prior commissioner, mayor, labor relations officer and she is a current FEMA reservist. 

Chad Howell is a veteran who has served our country in the Marine Corps and in combat roles during his two deployments in Iraq. He is a current first responder.

Voting both of these individuals into office on Nov. 5 will ensure High Springs will be much better prepared for the next emergency.

Linda Rice Chapman, Esq.

High Springs, Florida

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