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L-R: Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper receives the Florida League of Cities’ highest award from League President Greg Ross /Photo special to Alachua County Today

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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission at he Aug. 26, 2024, meeting put one agenda item on hold. Among other matters, the final adoption of the City’s Fire Assessment Rates for the coming year was scheduled for a vote. However, a large increase in the Industrial category from $0.06 per square foot to $0.23 per square foot had Commissioners and some business owners in sticker shock.

During the current year, the City of Newberry contracted Anser Advisory to calculate the apportionment of fire service costs to ensure those costs are fairly spread across all users of the City’s fire service. This is a standard best practice every 5-7 years.

The study returned with a higher call volume and response time generated by commercial and industrial users, meaning that more of the fire assessment is being proposed against those user types. Preliminarily adopted rates for FY25 were initially set at $0.23 per square foot.

However, it is well known in the community and revealed in the report that one business is responsible for the higher call volume/response time noted by Anser Advisory.

A number of business owners expressed their displeasure to the Commission in having their rates increased by $0.17 per square foot because of one business owner. The Commission agreed and discussed a few options for change to the category that might be fairer to all business owners.

Potentially reducing rates led to concern and discussion about a reduced assessment amount to the City’s FY 2024-25 Fire Services budget. Newberry Assistant City Manager and CFO Dallas Lee said that a reduction in rates would cause a budget shortfall, but the City could make it up if that’s what the Commission opted to do.

The Commission failed to take action on the rate structure at the Aug. 26 meeting but did task City Staff to look at options and to present their findings at the Sept. 9, 2024, Commission meeting for consideration and final approval.

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HIGH SPRINGS – A 36-year-old High Springs man’s guilty plea secured him a prison sentence of 12 years, stemming from an assault on two High Springs Police officers in March 2022. John Kyle Culp entered into a plea deal with the State on Aug. 27, 2024.

During the original incident, the High Springs Police Department responded to a suspicious person call, where Culp was offering nearby residents drugs and appeared to be impaired.

As two High Springs Police Officers approached Culp, he sat motionless in his vehicle and refused to identify himself or cooperate with the officers’ direction.

When the officers attempted to remove Culp from the vehicle with the door ajar, Culp put his vehicle in reverse, accelerated and struck and dragged the officers for a short duration.

Culp subsequently crashed his vehicle a few blocks from the incident and fled on foot, escaping capture. A thorough search of Culp’s vehicle was conducted to ensure public safety, which yielded various controlled substances including fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, Alprazolam (Xanax), and assorted pills. 

On March 24, 2022, a New Orleans-based U.S. Marshals Task Force located and arrested Culp in Louisiana, and he was extradited back to Alachua County to face criminal charges of: 

Count I: Aggravated Battery on Law Enforcement Officer

Count VI: Aggravated Battery on Law Enforcement Officer

Count VII: Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Count IV: Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Count V: Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Count VI: Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Count VII: Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Count VIII: Possession of Firearm, Ammunition, or Electric Weapon by Convicted Felon

Count IX: Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude (Injury or damage)

Count X: Resisting an Officer with Violence

Count XI: Fail Stop/Report Crash Involving Injury

High Springs Police Chief Antoine Sheppard said, “I am grateful that the officers survived this attack. The actions of Mr. Culp were severe and could have resulted in the death or serious bodily injury to our public servants, underscoring the gravity of the incident. Mr. Culp will have a long time to reflect on his criminal offenses, and I fervently hope that he seeks and obtains the necessary help and reform upon his return to society.”

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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission and received an update from City Manager Mike New about the city’s wastewater treatment plant and discussed a fire services agreement with Alachua County, among other matters on Aug. 26, 2024. The meeting also provided a platform for Commissioner Rick Coleman to ask questions about Save Our Schools Newberry, fulfilling a previous commitment he said he had made.

City Manager Mike New provided a status of grant requests for the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and current capacity. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) denied the City’s application for a construction state revolving fund (SRF) loan. New said, “We were not approved by FDEP for the loan because our current rates and fees are insufficient to repay the loan amount, which is presumed to be $70ish million.” New said the denial wasn’t a surprise. “Our last cost estimate was in the $70 million range. That project started in the $22 - $24 million range just four short years ago,” he said.

“We applied for a $49 million grant through FDEP. In December, we should find out whether we will receive the grant. If we are successful, then we will again seek an SRF loan, but this time we will request a $21 million loan. We are capable of paying debt service on $21 million, so we expect approval for a $21 million loan request,” New said. “If we get approved then we are going to bid in March.”

Regarding system capacity, New said, “Just from a wastewater capacity on paper, we are out. But in terms of everyday flow, we’re at 50 percent capacity. We have met with FDEP and we have a strategy in place that probably gives us four years worth of 150 – 200 gallons per day for homes per year.”

In other business, the Commission conducted a Legislative Hearing on second reading of an ordinance providing consent for the entire corporate limits of the city to be included in a Non-Ad Valorem assessment for Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) created by Alachua County for Solid Waste Management Costs. The Commission voted 4-1 to approve the assessment with Commissioner Tim Marden dissenting.

Alachua County requested authorization to continue the levy of a MSBU to provide Solid Waste Services to the City. The MSBU rate for residential customers in FY 2024-25 is $25.27, the same rate as in the prior year. Rates are annual and are paid to Alachua County when property taxes are due.

In still other business, the Commission unanimously approved an updated Fire Service Agreement (FSA) between Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR) and the Newberry Fire Department (NFD) that was scheduled to expire at midnight on Sept. 30, 2024. Thes Agreement between the City and County will be effective Oct. 1, 2024 until terminated by agreement of the parties or as otherwise provided in the Agreement.

Newberry Fire Chief Mike Vogel presented the updated contract between ACFR and NFD, which he said includes several key changes including reducing the contract duration from five to two years. The Exchange Program has been removed, with NFD now providing Advanced Life Support (ALS) services. The minimum staffing requirement has been set at three personnel (NFD's minimum staffing is four). ACFR will provide all disposable ALS medical supplies and NFD must submit a daily roster to ACFR.

Vogel said currently, the City of Newberry attends more requests for services in the County than Alachua County attends Newberry fires. The cost to both parties to attend incidents in the other’s area is $866.

The matter of Newberry’s Charter School was raised as Commissioner Rick Coleman offered questions regarding Save Our Schools Newberry that he had promised to read. Mayor Jordan Marlowe said that all of these questions have been asked and answered previously. Marlowe also said that the same people keep asking the same questions.

Responding to a question about the legitimacy of the charter school after the close vote, Marlowe said, “The Department of Education has already ruled on this. They’ve already said that the vote passed and the vote hit the standard. So that’s a decided question. Anyone who continues to say that the vote didn’t pass is incorrect and is purposely misleading people, because we have very clear communication from the Department of Education that it did pass.”

Responding to a question about why the City plans to loan money to the charter school board to pay for lawyers and other consultants helping to prepare the charter school application, Marlowe said, “You guys [referring to the Commissioners] have not voted to loan anybody money. You guys have voted to pay the bills for the new school board in order to get the application moved forward.”

The next Newberry City Commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m.

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ALACHUA ‒ This past Saturday marked the start of the Fall 2024 season for the Santa Fe Alachua Raiders Youth Football & Cheer Program.

The program, which is a staple of the Alachua and High Springs community, organized a vibrant kickoff event featuring games across multiple age groups: 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U.

The Raiders faced off against Perry Elite from Taylor County, with both the 6U and 12U teams securing their first wins of the season. Meanwhile, the 8U and 10U teams came up short but are hopeful for redemption in their upcoming games against Henry Brown in Jacksonville. The Raiders' next home games are set for Sept. 28, 2024, against the Bradford Cowboys.

Paulie McClain, the current President of the Alachua Raiders, along with coaches and volunteers, orchestrated a successful and engaging event that brought the community together. As the league travels north to Jacksonville this coming weekend, the community wishes them the best of luck.

In addition to the excitement on the field, the Welch Family Reunion brought a spirit of celebration and togetherness to the Hal Brady Recreation Gymnasium over the weekend. The Welch family, a longstanding pillar of the Alachua community, gathered to strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories, and uphold cherished traditions.

On the cultural front, the City of Alachua Recreation & Culture Department is teaming up with Dance About to offer a six-week dance program for children. Registration is currently open for classes that begin on Sept. 30, 2024, and run through Nov. 18, 2024. Classes for grades K-4 will be held on Mondays from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., and for grades 5-8 from 4:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. All sessions will take place at the Legacy Multipurpose Center.

Additionally, the Recreation & Culture Department is launching a new music and arts program at Legacy Park. MapForYouth, a group dedicated to fostering youth appreciation for the arts, will host an open house on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Legacy Park’s Multipurpose Building, located at 5400 Peggy Road, Alachua. This event will provide an opportunity for parents and caregivers to explore the program’s offerings, which include introductions to keyboard/piano, digital drums, guitar, arts and crafts, dance, and a variety of fun and engaging games. The open house is free and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about these enriching programs.

For more information about these programs, please contact the City of Alachua Recreation & Culture Department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Weekday serenity at Poe Springs Park offers a peaceful retreat into “Original Florida,” where the only sounds are those of nature. But come summertime, and especially on holidays like Labor Day weekend, the park comes alive with laughter and the joyful chatter of visitors savoring the refreshing, crystal-clear spring waters.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ After a series of closures due to weather events, renovations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and most recently Hurricane Debby, Poe Springs Park is once again open to the public. The park’s reopening on Aug. 31, 2024, perfectly coincided with the Labor Day weekend, providing a scenic outdoor escape for holiday revelers at Alachua County’s largest natural spring.

This past weekend, visitors flocked to the park to enjoy various activities such as tubing, kayaking, hiking, and barbecuing, making the most of the park’s reopening after its recent closure due to flooding from Hurricane Debby. While the park is now operating on its regular seven-days-a-week schedule, Alachua County officials have issued a cautionary advisory for visitors: do not drink the water without boiling it first to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms.

Poe Springs, which pumps an impressive 45 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily, has been a beloved recreation spot for nearly 70 years. The park offers a variety of amenities, including swimming in the spring area, extensive hiking trails, kayak and canoe launches, sports fields, and a lodge building for event rentals, such as parties, family gatherings, and small weddings. The grounds are also equipped with playgrounds, volleyball courts, and picnic shelters complete with barbecue grills.

The park’s history has been marked by a series of openings and closures to accommodate necessary repairs and improvements. Originally privately owned, the initial 75-acre parcel of Poe Springs was acquired by Alachua County in 1985 using a federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Additional acreage was later provided by the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) and further grant funds throughout the 1980s. The park officially opened to the public in 1991 and has since become a popular weekend destination.

Poe Springs has faced several closures over the years due to a variety of factors. It was shut down in December 2011 for extensive construction, which included installing a new retaining wall and steps in the swimming area, as well as updating landscaping and building roofs and air-conditioning units. The park reopened on July 4, 2013, operating four days a week under an arrangement with the City of High Springs, but closed again in 2017 following damage from Hurricane Irma. After repairs, it reopened in May 2018 with a limited schedule of Friday to Sunday.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced another closure in March 2020 under State quarantine mandates, but the park reopened three months later. The springs area, however, closed again in September 2020 for additional renovations, though the boat ramp remained accessible.

Planned to reopen in January 2021, delays pushed the reopening to Memorial Day weekend of that year. The park faced yet another setback in July 2021 when Tropical Storm Elsa caused severe flooding, prompting another temporary closure.

Now, with the park once again open to the public, visitors can enjoy all the natural beauty and recreational amenities Poe Springs Park has to offer. The park features pavilions and picnic shelters, multipurpose fields, a boardwalk through the cypress swamp, and access to the springs via a series of loop trails. For boaters, the park provides a boat launch and a dock with access to the river.

Poe Springs Park is located at 28800 N.W. 182nd Avenue, High Springs. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle or $1 per person for walk-in or bicycle entry. However, entry is free from October to April, and fees are waived for individuals with disabilities.

As Poe Springs Park welcomes visitors back, it continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

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SW 8TH AVENUE AND SW 61STREET ROAD CONSTRUCTION

ALACHUA COUNTY - The Alachua County Public Works Department will be performing road construction on SW 8th Avenue and SW 61st Street between Tower Road (SW 75th Street) and SW 20th Avenue beginning September 9, 2024.

The construction will require SW 8th Avenue and SW 61st Street between Tower Road (SW 75th Street) and SW 20th Avenue to be closed to through traffic beginning September 9, 2024.

AC Road construction map.jpg

Detours will be in place to redirect through traffic on SW 8th Avenue/SW 61st Street via Tower Road (SW 75th Street)/SW 17th Road/SW 20th Avenue.

The work is anticipated to take three weeks to complete, and through traffic will be prohibited on SW 8th Avenue and SW 61st Street between Tower Road (SW 75th Street) and SW 20th Avenue during this time. Residents and local traffic will have access to their properties, but through traffic will be required to utilize the detour.

The work will include constructing two raised concrete crosswalks along the SW 8th Avenue/SW 61st Street corridor.

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GAINESVILLE - University of Florida officials are celebrating its first “smart garden,” a 320-square-foot agricultural pod outfitted to grow fruits and vegetables hydroponically.

“It’s essentially a shipping container similar to one used to ship goods from Asia or Europe to the United States,” said James Boyer, Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) director of research administration.

Ying Zhang, UF/IFAS assistant professor of controlled environments, is leading a team of researchers studying indoor agriculture techniques by growing lettuce inside the pod. The team marked its first harvest earlier this month.

Boyer said he expects the garden to produce 500 heads of lettuce a week, and the food will be transported to Gainesville for use by the Hitchcock Field and Fork Pantry.

The Citra smart garden is funded through a collaboration with Clay Electric Cooperative, Seminole Electric Cooperative and EPRI, an independent, non-profit energy R&D organization. In 2022, Seminole Electric, EPRI and Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative funded a similar project at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Live Oak.

By outfitting the pods with efficient HVAC, lighting, water pump and dehumidification systems, the electric companies hope to better understand indoor agriculture’s impact on the electric grid.

“Indoor agriculture is a rapidly emerging industry across the U.S.,” said David Porter, EPRI’s vice president of electrification and sustainable energy strategy. “Within the indoor agriculture industry, we are seeing a rapid evolution of efficient and innovative designs, technologies and solutions that help deliver nutritional crops year-round.”

Although Seminole Electric currently owns the container, it will become UF property after two years.

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TALLAHASSEE – On July 11, 2024, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced enforcement actions against Just Brands, LLC and High Roller Private Label, LLC for selling and manufacturing hundreds of thousands of hemp products attractive to children in violation of s. 581.217(7), F.S. The enforcement actions include a five-year ban on the sale of any food products, including hemp products, in Florida for Just Brands, LLC; and a two-year ban on the manufacture of hemp gummies in Florida for High Roller Private Label, LLC.

“One of my top responsibilities as Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture is ensuring the safety of our food and protecting Florida’s consumers, especially our children. These historic enforcement actions mark a significant step in our ongoing efforts to protect kids over profits and rein in the hemp industry in Florida,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Prior to the changes made to Florida law in 2023, Florida’s hemp industry was out of control and products were being sold without restrictions, including allowing sales to children with marketing and packaging specifically targeting them. While I believe Florida’s laws need to be strengthened, make no mistake, we will use every inch of our current authority to protect Florida’s children from these products and go after those who violate the law.”

On October 31, 2023, FDACS conducted a food inspection at a Just Brands, LLC facility and found violations, including the sale of hemp products attractive to children in violation of s. 581.217(7), F.S. As a result, FDACS issued Stop Sale Orders for 215,154 hemp products. During a reinspection on January 22, 2024, FDACS discovered that Just Brands, LLC had violated these orders by relocating the products, with shipments tracked to Chicago, Illinois. Subsequent inspections on January 29 and February 5, 2024, confirmed the removal of all 215,154 packages from the facility without permission by FDACS. Between December 6, 2023, and February 5, 2024, Just Brands moved, sold, or used all the packages subject to the Stop Sale Orders without the FDACS’s knowledge.

On April 2, 2024, FDACS conducted a food inspection at a High Roller Private Label, LLC facility and found over 186,000 packages of hemp products attractive to children in violation of s. 581.217(7), F.S. To prevent potential harm, FDACS issued stop-sale orders for 186,377 packages of hemp products and 644 packages containing synthetic cannabinoids, specifically "THC-O" and "HHCO."

Settlement Terms:

 Just Brands, LLC has agreed to the following terms:

  • Permit Revocation: Just Brands will accept a five-year revocation of its Food Permit, prohibiting the company from owning or operating any food establishment in Florida requiring a permit from FDACS, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, or the Department of Health.
  • Payment of Enforcement Costs: Just Brands will reimburse FDACS a total of $60,500.00 for attorney's fees and enforcement costs.
  • Dismissal of Pending Actions: Just Brands will file appropriate documents to dismiss the proceedings pending before the Southern District of Florida in Case Number 23-cv-62081.

High Roller Private Label, LLC has agreed to the following terms:

  • Restriction on Manufacture of Hemp Gummies: High Roller will cease the manufacture, distribution, and sale of gummy hemp extract products in Florida for two years.
  • Payment of Enforcement Costs: High Roller will reimburse FDACS $5,000.00 for attorney's fees and enforcement costs incurred during the dispute.

During the 2023 legislative session, Commissioner Wilton Simpson worked with the Florida Legislature to reform Florida’s hemp laws to better protect consumers and children. SB 1676 added age requirements for the purchase of hemp products intended for human consumption, protected Florida’s minors by prohibiting the sale of hemp products that are attractive to children, protects consumers by mandating that products sold in Florida be packaged in a safe container, and holds hemp products that are intended for human consumption to the same health and safety standards as other food products.

To enforce the law, the department conducted the largest ever inspection sweep of businesses selling products that contain hemp extracts in July and August of 2023. The statewide inspection sweeps specifically targeted the sale of hemp products that are attractive to children, which is prohibited by Florida law. The sweep included inspections of more than 700 businesses in all 67 Florida counties and uncovered over 83,000 packages of hemp products, including euphoric, high-potency THC products, attractive to children. Since July 1, 2023, the department has uncovered over 668,000 packages of hemp products attractive to children.

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TALALAHASSEE - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement along with other law enforcement partners participated in Operation Dry Water’s heightened enforcement weekend July 4-6. With the Fourth of July falling on a Thursday this year the heightened patrol efforts extended through Sunday, July 7.

ODW is a year-round national effort to educate recreational boaters about the dangers of Boating Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs and their mission is to reduce the number of alcohol- and drug0related incidents and fatalities on the water.

The Northeast Region of the FWC DLE consists of 12 counties including St. Johns County on the north end, down to Indian River County on the east coast, and west over to Sumter County. The region’s officers and staff were proactive in getting boating safety messaging out to the public prior to the holiday and they continued educating the public while remaining on the lookout for reckless or impaired operators during the popular Fourth of July boating weekend.

Between July 4-7, FWC officers in the Northeast Region cited 157 vessel operators for boating safety violations, issued 778 boating safety warnings and removed 11 vessel operators from the water for BUI. The highest Blood Alcohol Content reported was .11. In Florida, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a BAC of .08 or higher, the same as in a vehicle. Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal on all bodies of water and the use of both legal and illegal drugs impairs judgement and reaction time, whichcan lead to serious injuries and consequences. Statewide, over 50 vessel operators were removed from the waterways of Florida for BUI during the heightened enforcement and holiday weekend.

“Our message over the Operation Dry Water weekend was the same as it is all year long,” said Maj. Jay Russel, Northeast Regional Commander. “Never boat under the influence. The Fourth of July holiday has been known for increased boating activity as well as increased alcohol consumption, every hour our officers spent on the water was aimed at educating and safeguarding everyone out enjoying our waterways. We know the potential our presence has to save lives and we take that very seriously.”

The FWC reminds all boaters to enjoy time with friends and family but do so safely and don’t forget to designate a sober operator before departing from the dock. More information about boating and boating regulations in Florida can be found by visiting MyFWC.com/Boating and boaters can learn more about boating under the influence and the Operation Dry Water campaign by visiting OperationDryWater.org.

To report dangerous boating activity the public can submit anonymous tips by texting 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” followed by the location and any information about the violation or call 888-404-FWCC (3922). Additionally, there is an easy-to-use downloadable iPhone or Android app: “FWC Wildlife Alert.”

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GAINESVILLE ‒ Although plenty of Florida’s craft brewers advertise their libations as brewed with state-grown ingredients, a vital ingredient – hops – is not readily available within the Sunshine State. A University of Florida study currently underway, however, may help pave the way for a robust crop of Florida-grown hops.

Beer HopsAromaTesting0006Researchers with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) believe they have identified a method for making hop-growing viable despite Florida’s incompatible climate: greenhouses.

“This has never been done in Florida,” said Katherine Thompson-Witrick, an assistant professor in the UF/IFAS food science and human nutrition department and the leader of the study.

In 2021, the Florida craft brewing industry generated $4.1 billion for the state, the fourth-largest amount in the country, according to the Brewers Association, a Colorado-based organization that monitors the industry.

Since January 2023, when the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services awarded Thompson-Witrick and her team a grant, they have harvested two crops of hops from a greenhouse at the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. In June, they hope to harvest again. Their objective is to develop cultivation practices that maximize aromatic and flavor characteristics comparable to those associated with traditional craft beer-brewing regions like Yakima Valley in Washington.

Thompson-Witrick’s team planted 20, 2-inch-tall seedlings of Cascade and Chinook varieties in April 2023. By July 2023, the plants had reached 20 feet tall, and the vines had to be manually separated to prevent them from becoming tangled.

“We saw a substantial amount of growth in the first nine months of this project, which is really outstanding and amazing for us,” Thompson-Witrick said.

The key was supplemental lighting installed within the greenhouse. Hops grow best when afforded at least 16 hours of sunlight, which is available at latitudes of 35 degrees and above; Florida’s uppermost latitude reaches just 31 degrees. The UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm has conducted breeding studies to develop Florida-compatible hops capable of adapting to the state’s shorter days.

Based on Thompson-Witrick’s preliminary research, the growth and flowering rates of the Apopka plants suggest her method could obtain the same yield of hops – per plant – as Yakima Valley.

But is the product as appealing to the senses?

Thompson-Witrick uses a gas chromatography mass spectrometer to detect the chemical compounds contained within the hops, the alpha and beta assets that quantify how bitter a beer brewed from them would be. For a more subjective analysis, she recruited human volunteers.

Throughout UF’s spring semester, 14 students met regularly to pry open the lids of condiment containers and carefully stick their noses inside.

The contents, resembling shredded alfalfa, were heady, but layered beneath the strong earthy odor were hints of citrus, spice and floral notes. Students took deep sniffs and recorded the strength of the various scents they detected. They smelled both the Apopka hops as well as commercial ones, but they did not know which hops were which.

The repeated sensory trainings will eventually lead to official blind testing and comparison between commercial varieties and Thompson-Witrick’s product.

“We want to disseminate our findings to growers to help with diversifying the state’s agricultural crops and to provide information that would be critical to further cultivating hops,” she said.

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TALLAHASSEE - Today, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner issued the following statement regarding an early morning crash in Marion County between an International Bus transporting 53 people and a Ford Ranger truck:

The Florida Highway Patrol is currently investigating a traffic crash which occurred at approximately 6:35 am, on State Road 40, approximately 500 feet west of SW 148 Court. The collision involved a 2010 International Bus, transporting approximately 53 employees of a farming company, and a 2001 Ford Ranger private truck.

Initial investigation reveals that the two vehicles made contact in a sideswipe type collision. Post collision, the bus traveled off the roadway, through a fence, and then overturned. Currently, eight people have been confirmed deceased and approximately 40 people have been transported to local medical facilities.

At 1:47 PM today, State Troopers assigned to the FHP Northern Region Specialized Investigations and Reconstruction Team (SIRT) arrested Bryan Maclean Howard, the driver of the private Ford Ranger truck, on the following criminal charges – Eight (8) counts of Driving Under the Influence – Manslaughter.    

Identities of the deceased will be released pending next of kin notification. Our sympathies and prayers are with the families of the deceased. Consistent with our duties, the Florida Highway Patrol will conduct both a thorough and exhaustive traffic crash and criminal investigation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stacey Breheny

High Springs, Florida

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

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

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

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

Leah Currier

High Springs, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

Sharon Decker

High Springs Chamber of Commerce

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WALDO - Waldo, Gainesville and Ocala have a surprising connection to Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. Two museums in Waldo will highlight this Florida link with new displays on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

Ian Fleming (1908-1964) was not only the creator of James Bond but also an accomplished spymaster, journalist, publisher, collector and gamesman. As one of the 20th Century’s top novelists, Fleming sold millions of books in multiple languages, drawing on his firsthand experiences as the second-in-command for Britain’s Naval Intelligence Division during World War II.

Fleming’s love of racing nearly cost him his life when, as a student in Kitzbühel, Austria, his car was struck by a train. This terrifying yet thrilling experience inspired the frequent appearance of trains and monorails in his books and the Bond films.

His travels on the Seaboard Silver Star through North Central Florida also provided material for his novel “Live and Let Die,” featuring action aboard passenger trains between Jacksonville and St. Petersburg.

“Florida Bond fans are thrilled to learn that ‘Mr. Big,’ the villain of ‘Live and Let Die,’ had his henchmen coordinate an attack on James Bond between Waldo and Ocala,” said Matt Sherman, author of “James Bond’s Cuisine” and “Playing Games With James Bond” and recognized by multiple media outlets as one of the world’s top Bondologists.

“I’m glad the public will soon be able to explore the trains of James Bond from 30 of the Bond books and films through the Waldo Area Historical Society Museums,” Sherman added.

On Saturday, Aug. 3, two new museum displays will be unveiled: “Ian Fleming: Railfan” at the Waldo Historical Railroad Museum at 2:30 p.m. and “James Bond on The Tracks” at the Waldo Area Historical Museum at City Square at 3 p.m.

Visitors can ask questions, share their fan experiences and take photos. Sherman will discuss the many Florida connections to the James Bond series and present unique props from the Bond films for the public to enjoy.

The Waldo Area Historical Museum is located at Waldo City Square, 14450 N.E. 148th Avenue, Waldo. The Waldo Historical Railroad Museum is located at Veterans Memorial Park, 14660 5th Blvd., Waldo.

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