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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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ALACHUA COUNTY - According to a press release provided by the School Board of Alachua County based on updated information on the potential impact of the winter storm on our area, our schools and district offices will be closed on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. All extracurricular activities that day are also cancelled.

It is expected that schools and district offices will reopen on Thursday, January 23. If that changes, the district will notify families and staff through email, phone and text. Any changes will also be posted on the district’s website at https://www.sbac.edu and on its social media pages.

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HIGH SPRINGS - The High Springs Fire Department, in partnership with UF Health Shands Pediatric Trauma Services, is proud to announce a free Car Seat Safety Check event on Saturday, January 18th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the High Springs Farmers' Market Pavilion.

“The most effective way to protect your child in the car is by using the correct car seat and installing it properly. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, correctly used child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by up to 71%.” Said Jordyn Zyngier, Pediatric Trauma Outreach Coordinator, UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. “However, research shows that, on average, three out of four car seats are installed incorrectly across the country. Our mission is to help families make informed choices to ensure their child's safety on the road.”

This event is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to community safety and aims to help parents and caregivers ensure their car seats are installed correctly. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be on-site to inspect car seats, provide hands-on guidance, and answer any questions about car seat safety.

“Our goal is to educate and assist families in keeping their children safe on the road,” said Captain Kevin Pearson “We encourage everyone who uses a car seat to take advantage of this free opportunity.”

The event is open to all families in the community, and appointments are required. Attendees must bring their vehicles, car seats, and child passengers for a comprehensive check. To register, please visit highsprings.gov/fire.

Event Details:

·                What: Free Car Seat Safety Check (Appointment Required!)

·                When: Saturday, January 18th, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

·                Where: High Springs Farmers' Market Pavilion, 23517 NW 185th Road High Springs, FL Don’t miss this chance to ensure your child’s safety and gain peace of mind on the road.

For more information, contact Public Information Officer Kevin Mangan at 352-681-1907 or

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ASES

Santa Rosa County

  • Officer Brown conducted a resource inspection after sunset on a vessel without the proper navigation lights. During the vessel stop, the subject admitted to catching striped bass. Officer Brown observed undersized striped bass in the subject's cooler. The subject was cited appropriately.

Wakulla County

  • Officer M. Fernbach observed a group of subjects hunting ducks inside the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Officer M. Fernbach contacted the subjects and issued the appropriate citations

North Central Region

CASES

Baker County

  • Master Officer Burnsed located a pickup truck in the Osceola National Forest with its dogbox recently washed possibly to conceal an illegally taken deer. He contacted the driver and they denied harvesting a deer but through his investigation, Officer Burnsed located a recently killed antlered deer in the subject’s camp. Officer Burnsed again contacted the owner of the truck and he admitted to killing the illegal antlered deer. Charges were filed with the State Attorney's Office.
  • While patrolling Osceola National Forest Lieutenant Douglas heard a deer running followed by several shots in front of hunting dogs. During his investigation, none of the eight subjects in the group would admit to shooting. K-9 Officers Gill and Yates arrived to assist in locating evidence. Officer Gill and K-9 Camo located a recently killed antlerless deer. Officer Yates deployed K-9 Harlow and located freshly fired shotgun casings.  Master Officer Burnsed interviewed the subjects again and two of the subjects admitted to shooting the antlerless deer. Charges were filed with the State Attorney's Office.  
  • Officer Hauge responded to a call about someone hunting in a local hunting club with a gun and light.  A club member received a video from his cell game camera of a person shining a light while in possession of a rifle. The subject was identified as a convicted felon. The subject was picked up on other warrants and confessed to the violations. Charges of hunting with a gun and light, armed trespass and possession of firearm by convicted felon will be charged with the State Attorney's Office.  

Duval County

  • Officer Moran and Senior Officer Stuhr conducted a fisheries inspection of two subjects who were found to be in possession of multiple undersized red drum and seatrout. Additionally, neither subject had a fishing license. The subjects were charged for the violations. 

Northeast Region

CASES

Flagler County

  • Officer Specialist Christmas conducted a freshwater fisheries inspection on a subject fishing at a local bridge. The inspection revealed the subject did not have a freshwater fishing license and his fishing privileges had been suspended. The subject received a citation for fishing while privileges were suspended.

Indian River County

  • Officer Hopkins observed a subject trespassing on private property. He reached out to the landowner who informed him where the subject’s vehicle was parked. K-9 Senior Officer Platt and K-9 Bolo were called to the area. K-9 Bolo ran a track and was able to locate the subject, who was pursuing game illegally on the property. 

Lake County

  • Officer Tuckfield observed a commercial fishing vessel along the north side of Lake Apopka with one person on board who was pulling fish from a gillnet. Officer Tuckfield recognized the vessel as one of the permitted vessels to catch gizzard shad on the lake. He watched the subject begin throwing dead Florida bass and crappie into the water. Officer Tuckfield conducted a boating safety and resource inspection. During the inspection, he observed numerous dead gizzard shad, crappie, and Florida bass entangled in a gillnet. The subject stated the lake was too windy and made it a hassle to sort the fish, so they came to the canal to sort them there. Officer Tuckfield informed the subject they must sort their catch and release any gamefish immediately. He issued the subject notice to appear citations for taking gamefish by illegal method and wanton or willful waste of freshwater fish.
  • Officer Stamp responded to information about subjects hunting in a closed area of Emeralda Marsh Public Small Game Hunting Area. Upon arrival, he observed one subject sitting on the levee holding a shotgun. A second subject was observed retrieving a duck just harvested from the levee. Officer Stamp made contact with the subjects and conducted a resource and license inspection. The investigation revealed the subjects harvested four ducks from the levee, which is prohibited to hunt from. Appropriate citations and warnings were issued for hunting from a closed area.
  • Senior Officer Phillips observed a vehicle pull off the side of the road at Richloam Wildlife Management Area. He watched a subject exit the vehicle wearing a blaze orange vest and holding a shotgun. The subject walked to the middle of the roadway and stood there looking toward the woods on both sides of the road. A short time later, multiple hunting dogs exited the woods to the location where the subject was standing in the roadway. Officer Phillips contacted the subject to conduct a license and resource inspection. During the inspection, the subject admitted to hunting and stated they knew they weren’t supposed to be hunting from the roadway. Officer Phillips issued the subject a notice to appear citation for hunting from a prohibited roadway in the WMA.

Marion County

  • Officers Constance and Brooks contacted subjects who were returning to a boat ramp after hunting ducks at a local wildlife management area. During a resource inspection the subjects were found to be in possession of a juvenile common gallinule (moorhen) out of season. During a license check, the subjects were found without a federal duck stamp. Appropriate citations were issued.
  • While checking subjects hunting ducks at a wildlife management area, Officers Constance, Aultman, and Brooks heard three gunshots from nearby woods. They responded to the area and located several vehicles with subjects dressed in camouflage on foot in the area. An investigation revealed three freshly spent shotgun shells and a recently killed antlered deer nearby. Upon inspection, the deer did not meet legal antler point regulations. After conducting a thorough investigation, officers were able to identify and locate a subject. The subject admitted to shooting the deer and leaving it behind. The subject was cited for taking an antlered deer that did not meet antler point regulations and willful and wanton waste of wildlife.

St. Johns County

  • While on water patrol, Officer Specialist Lawrence and Senior Officer Thomas stopped a vessel inside the St. Augustine Inlet that was returning from offshore fishing. The operator stated he had a mutton snapper onboard. Upon boarding and inspection, Officer Thomas located a graysby grouper. Grouper season closes every year from January through April. Officer Thomas issued the operator a citation for possession of graysby grouper during closed season.

Southwest Region

CASES

Lee County

  • Officer Lejarzar observed a commercial fishing vessel strike out multiple nets from one vessel. He conducted a fisheries inspection and determined some of the nets were illegally tied together and that the subject had struck out more nets than they were allowed to deploy from a single boat. A check of the subject’s history revealed he had been issued citations for the same violation in the past. The subject was issued citations. Officer Lejarzar also determined the nets were not properly marked and so additional charges will be filed with the State Attorney’s Office.  

Manatee County

  • Senior Officer Hinds and Officer Specialist Miller were observing two individuals who were duck hunting around Robison Preserve. One of the individuals shot at ducks past legal shooting hours. The individual was stopped and an inspection revealed the individual was missing a plug in their shotgun. The individual will have to appear in Manatee County Court for the violations.
  • Officer Specialist Miller observed an individual fishing along the shore around Bayshore Gardens. As the individual was packing up to leave, a resource inspection revealed the individual had kept five seatrout over the bag limit. The individual will have to appear in Manatee County Court for the violations.

Sarasota County

  • Officer Specialist Morrow was patrolling in the Manasota Key area when a vessel with fishing rods came into the boat ramp. Officer Specialist Morrow conducted a resource inspection on the vessel and found the individual had caught and kept an undersized, out-of-season snook. The subject will have to appear in Sarasota County Court for the violation.

South A Region

CASES

Broward County

  • While assisting federal partners on a case, Captain Hart and Officers Willis and Dudas conducted a fisheries inspection during the vessel stop at Port Everglades Inlet and 15th Street and discovered 51 wrung lobster tails and nine pieces of conch on board. Willis issued the vessel operator multiple citations including harvesting or possessing undersized spiny lobster, spiny lobsters not in whole condition, the harvest of more than six spiny lobsters per recreational harvester per day, and the take and possession of queen conch.
  • Officers Cusick, Davis, and Officer Specialist Bruder conducted a resource inspection at the Port Everglades Inlet. Their inspection revealed the vessel was returning from the Bahamas with 25 demersal fish and 36 wrung spiny lobster tails onboard. The officers issued the operator three federal citations for Lacy Act violations. 
  • Officers Hammad and Olivera conducted water patrol near the Port Everglades Inlet, where they observed five personal watercrafts operating at high speeds in a slow-speed zone. They also noted several registration violations. The officers stopped the PWCs to address these issues and upon contacting the operators, they discovered the PWCs were rented, prompting an investigation into the rental operation. Their investigation revealed the individuals who had rented the PWCs were in violation of several regulations including they lacked an FWC livery permit, did not have the required insurance, knowingly rented the PWCs to five individuals who did not possess a boating safety education identification card, failed to provide written rental agreements, did not conduct pre-rental or pre-ride instruction, and did not have records available for inspection. Additionally, two of the renters were charged with renting a PWC that lacked the required safety equipment on board. The officers issued 26 notice to appear citations to the four individuals who rented the PWCs.
  • Officer Willis conducted land patrol at Stormwater Treatment Area 3/4 where he stopped a vehicle to perform a resource inspection and a license check related to duck hunting. During the inspection, Willis discovered one of the occupants of the vehicle did not possess a migratory bird permit. As a result, Willis issued a notice to appear citation for the violation.
  • Officers Hammad and Olivera conducted land patrol near U.S. 27 and South Florida Water Management District lands when they observed a vehicle driving past them at a high rate of speed. The officers noticed the vehicle was recklessly weaving between other cars, forcing other drivers to take evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. Hammad and Olivera initiated a traffic stop to address this violation. They issued a citation for reckless driving. 

Palm Beach County

  •  Lieutenant Brodbeck was on vessel patrol in Boynton Beach and observed a rental vessel on plane passing through a bridge posted as a slow speed zone. While speaking with the operator, Lt. Brodbeck observed the fire extinguisher gauge displaying empty.  Due to the safety gear deficiency on board a livery vessel, the vessel returned to the rental dock, where Lt. Brodbeck issued the owner of the business a uniform boating citation for renting a vessel with improper safety equipment. 
  • Officers Lardakis, Yetter, and Moss conducted a fisheries inspection on a vessel coming from offshore to Jupiter Inlet. Officer Lardakis inspected their live well and found they were in possession of an egg bearing spiny lobster. The boat captain was issued a misdemeanor summons for the violation. Later the team conducted a resource inspection on an inbound charter fishing vessel and found several undersized mutton and yellowtail snapper among their catch. The charter captain was issued a notice to appear for possession of less than legal sized mutton snapper and a warning for less than legal sized yellowtail.

South B Region

CASES

Collier County

  • Officer Parlapiano responded to a complaint regarding an individual keeping three snook on Tigertail Beach. Officer Parlapiano observed an individual who matched the description setting down a stringer of fish on the beach. Officer Parlapiano conducted a resource inspection and located three undersized snook on the stringer and two sheepshead, one of which was undersized. Officer Parlapiano issued the subject a notice to appear for take of snook during the closed season, violation of snook bag limits, possession of undersized snook and for possession of an undersized sheepshead. The subject was also issued a citation for not having a valid snook permit. 
  • Officers Richards, Foell, Esilva and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Officer Powell conducted an inspection on a commercial shrimp vessel anchored south of Key West. During the inspection, the officers located 32 wrung spiny lobster tails, 20 of them measuring less than the legal minimum size. The officers also located a bag containing 39 frozen scrawled cowfish, a species designated as marine life, which requires them to be alive, and a recreational bag limit. One of the crew members admitted to catching the spiny lobster and scrawled cowfish in the shrimp nets and admitted to keeping them. The subject was arrested and transported to the Stock Island Detention Cente
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 ALACHUA COUNTY — Alachua County Supervisor of Elections Kim A. Barton, through the Florida Supervisors of Elections (FSE), is offering Florida college and university students the opportunity to apply for one of three $1,200 scholarships.

The scholarships are awarded as part of the association’s ongoing commitment to education in Florida.

 

Eligible students must be enrolled as a full-time junior or senior studying political science, public or business administration, or journalism/mass communications. Students must be registered to vote in Florida. Applications are due March 7, 2025 and must be submitted to the Supervisor of Elections of the county in which the student is registered to vote.

 

Each county will review the applications it receives and conduct interviews. The county will choose one student from its applicants to be considered by the FSE scholarship committee.

 

The application, additional guidelines and more information can be found at https://www.votealachua.gov/Outreach-Media/Scholarship

 

FSE is the statewide association of Florida’s Supervisors of Elections. Its aim is to provide a forum where elections officials can share information and best practices on all elections-related matters.

 

The Alachua County Supervisor of Elections Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. It can be reached by phone at 352-374-5252. 

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GAINESVILLE  – Dance Alive National Ballet has received a $2,000 grant from the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund to support its Outreach Educational Programming.

Kim Tuttle, Artistic Director of Dance Alive National Ballet, and Emily Dixon, Outreach Director, said the funds would be used to expand services provided by DanceAbout and Let’s Dance programs.   DanceAbout provides classes and performance opportunities for students grades K-middle school while Let’s Dance provides classes for physically and/or developmentally challenged children.

“I am particularly pleased that this funding allows us to provide the instruction necessary for special needs students,” Dixon said. “And we have been able to double our DanceAbout classes.” (Dixon is also Director of Programming, Arts4AllFlorida.) “Additional performances, other than those scheduled with NUTCRACKER, include a special performance at Legacy Park in Alachua in March.”

In both rural and urban settings, the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund supports hundreds of important organizations and programs in the communities where they operate with funding, time, expertise and resources. Weyerhaeuser made its first charitable donation in 1903 and has provided more than $266 million in grants through its formal giving program, which was established in 1948.

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ALACHUA COUNTY - The Alachua County Commission invites residents, businesses, and local leaders in Eastern Alachua County to a community input session for the Forward Focus initiative. The session is on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at 9 a.m., at the Waldo City Square (14450 NE 148th Ave, Waldo). Light refreshments will be served.

 This session is an opportunity for the Waldo community and other East County residents to share their thoughts on the future of their communities. Attendees will learn more about the Forward Focus project goals and timeline. They can also provide feedback to help shape a community-wide survey and network with neighbors and local leaders.

 The Forward Focus project team will use this and future community meetings to develop a comprehensive plan to address Eastern Alachua County's unique needs and aspirations.

 "The input we received at the 2024 kickoff conversation in Hawthorne was invaluable," said Missy Daniels, Assistant County Manager and Forward Focus Team Lead. "We heard concerns about social services, economic development, transportation, and a desire for more engagement with Eastern County communities. We encourage everyone in Waldo and surrounding areas to join us on January 25 to share their thoughts and ideas."

 Forward Focus: Eastern Alachua County is a three-year project designed to improve the quality of life, boost economic opportunities, and address community needs in the eastern part of the county. This community input session follows a successful kickoff meeting in Hawthorne in October 2024.

 Learn more about the project and provide comments directly to the County.

 After Waldo's discussion, the project team will head to Micanopy's City Hall at 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, to get residents' feedback. 

 For more information, contact Forward Focus: Eastern Alachua County at 352-374-5204 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Alachua County Sheriff Chad Scott is sworn in by 8th Judicial Circuit Judge Susanne Wilson Bullard

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GAINESVILLE – On Jan. 7, 2025, Alachua County welcomed its new sheriff, Chad Scott, during a swearing-in ceremony that underscored his extensive career and commitment to public safety. Scott secured his position after defeating incumbent Sheriff Emery Gainey in a close November 2024 election.

The ceremony, held at noon in the Alachua County Courthouse, was also an opportunity to recognize the swearing-in of other key constitutional officers. These included Supervisor of Elections Kim Barton, Clerk of the Court J.K. “Jess” Irby, Tax Collector John Power, and Property Appraiser Ayesha Solomon. Also being sworn in were State Attorney for the Eighth Judicial Circuit Brian Kramer and Public Defender Stacy Scott.

Eighth Judicial Circuit Judge Susanne Wilson Bullard administered the oath of office to Sheriff Scott in front of a crowd filled with local leaders, law enforcement officials, and community members.

Scott enters his role as sheriff with a lifetime of experience in law enforcement. In his remarks following the ceremony, he emphasized a commitment to community policing, crime prevention, and addressing mental health and domestic violence issues. His vision centers on fostering transparency, accountability, and collaboration between law enforcement and the residents of Alachua County.

“I am honored to lead the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office,” Scott said. “My mission has always been about keeping communities safe.”

Scott’s career in law enforcement is marked by significant achievements. He previously served as Chief of Police for the City of Alachua, where he implemented innovative crime prevention strategies and strengthened community relations. As Colonel at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, he gained a reputation for effectively managing complex law enforcement operations.

Born in Gainesville and raised in Newberry, Scott is deeply rooted in Alachua County. A graduate of Newberry Jr. Sr. High School, where he excelled as a football standout, Scott continued his athletic career at Bethel College in Kansas. Upon returning home, he pursued his passion for public service by enrolling in the Police Academy and embarking on a career dedicated to protecting and serving his community.

Scott began his law enforcement journey as a midnight patrol officer at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office before moving to the Juvenile Relations Bureau. As a school resource officer, he left a profound impact at Lake Forest Elementary, Newberry High School, and Oak View Middle School. His roles included coaching football, counseling students, teaching classes, and helping establish the Criminal Justice magnet program, a legacy program within Alachua County Public Schools.

In his new role, Sheriff Scott aims to strengthen ties between law enforcement and the community while enhancing transparency and accountability. His approach prioritizes collaborative efforts to ensure safety and unity across Alachua County.

With decades of experience and deep community roots, Scott’s tenure as sheriff begins with a focus on building relationships, fostering trust, and creating a safer environment. His dedication to public service positions him to make a lasting impact on Alachua County.

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FLORIDA – As chilly weather grips the Sunshine State, Florida’s gardeners and farmers are turning to a powerful, localized tool to protect their plants and crops: the Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN). Unlike urban-focused weather stations, FAWN’s rural-based sites are strategically placed across the state to provide precise, real-time data tailored to agricultural and rural communities, ensuring Floridians have the localized information they need to prepare for frost and cold conditions in their specific regions.

FAWN stations track temperature, humidity, wind speeds, and more, offering real-time information that can be vital for making decisions about frost protection. Whether you’re managing a citrus grove in Central Florida or a small backyard garden in the Panhandle, FAWN ensures you’re equipped with precise weather data tailored to your area.

The proximity of FAWN’s stations to rural and agricultural zones is critical for predicting frost events and protecting plants and crops. Farmers can monitor real-time temperature changes and deploy frost protection methods like irrigation systems or heaters at just the right time. Gardeners can use the data to decide when to cover sensitive plants or bring potted plants indoors.

Localized data also helps avoid unnecessary measures. By knowing the exact conditions in your area, you can save money and resources by targeting protection efforts where they’re needed most.

FAWN is easy to use and accessible online at https://fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/FAWN Visitors to the site can view live weather updates, check past temperature data, and even use tools like the Cold Protection Toolkit, specifically designed for agricultural use.

FAWN is more than a weather network—it’s a lifeline for Florida’s agricultural community and plant enthusiasts. By focusing on localized conditions, FAWN empowers users with the knowledge they need to protect their landscapes and livelihoods.

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GAINESVILLE — UF Health officials and community leaders gathered Wednesday to break ground for the UF Health Orthopaedic Surgical Center, a more than 24,000-square-foot medical facility that will support outpatient services for total joint replacements and other orthopaedic procedures while expanding access to patients in Alachua County and Northeast Florida.

“We reflect anew on our longstanding commitment to health, hope, and healing,” said Stephen J. Motew, M.D., M.H.A., FACS, president and system CEO of the UF Health clinical enterprise. “We’ve collectively embraced this since our program in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine began back in 1960. Today, we celebrate a new chapter in our journey.”

The UF Health Orthopaedic Surgical Center will incorporate advanced technology, such as a new surgical robot called the da Vinci 5, to perform more precise, less invasive procedures. UF Health will be the first health system in the Southeast to use the da Vinci 5 for this sort of surgical support.

“The UF Health Orthopaedic Surgical Center demonstrates our commitment to provide a world-class environment of healing for our patients and families,” said Traci d’Auguste, chief operating officer for UF Health Shands.

The location will house eight operating rooms designed specifically for orthopaedic surgery. UF Health practitioners at the center will use the most advanced surgical technology to help patients have the best possible experience.

“This new facility will allow us to perform surgeries that traditionally have required a trip to the hospital and an overnight stay,” said C. Parker Gibbs Jr., M.D., chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at the UF College of Medicine. “We will manage the outcomes of injuries sustained by weekend warriors, like all of us, as well as Florida Gators athletes.”

Next month, the UF Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute, situated adjacent to the new surgical center, will mark its 20th anniversary. OSMI currently cares for more than 100,000 patients annually.

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Photo courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey

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GAINESVILLE - The University of Florida, in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other agencies, encourages the public to report sightings of the invasive Asian swamp eel, detected in Florida’s waterways over two decades ago.

Scientifically known as Monopterus albus, the Asian swamp eel is a unique, air-breathing fish native to Southeast Asia, thriving in muddy, stagnant waters. First detected in Florida in 1997, the species has established in numerous parts of the country, including Hawaii and Georgia. There is increased concern about their population growth throughout the southeast, particularly Florida.

People in Florida’s waterways are urged to report through the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species website, EDDMapS website or App or FWC’s 888-Ive-Got-1 hotline.

Scientists are concerned about the potential for invasion in new waterways and the detrimental effects it could have on Florida’s biodiversity. Additionally, there are concerns about unknown impacts on freshwater systems, which support recreational and commercial fishing industries.

“Florida’s aquatic habitats are vital to our ecosystem and economy, and invasive species like the swamp eel can cause irreversible damage to our biodiversity,” said Paul Evans, research coordinator for the UF/IFAS Invasion Science Research Institute (ISRI). “Like any invasive species their function as a novel predator is what is most harmful to our native species.”

Here is what scientists know about the Asian swamp eel:

  • Known for its ability to thrive in a variety of aquatic environments, swamp eels are highly adaptable and capable of surviving in a variety of environments, from slow-moving streams to marshes and wetlands.
  • They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide range of prey, including small fish, amphibians and invertebrates.
  • The species has the potential to disrupt food webs and harm native biodiversity, leading to ecological shifts in affected areas.
  • Swamp eels can reproduce prolifically, making it difficult to control their population once they become established.
  • Commonly sold as bait which can lead to unintentional baits, and is released as a part of a cultural practices

“Public involvement is critical in identifying and managing the spread of swamp eels. There is so much more we need to learn and all that starts with identifying them and raising awareness,” said Evans.

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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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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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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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