GAINESVILLE — The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is set to transform its visitor experience thanks to a $300,000 grant from the Rotary Clubs of Gainesville Foundation. The private gift will fund an Elevated Treehouse System and Learning Center, a signature feature in the zoo’s new master plan aimed at expanding educational opportunities and improving accessibility for guests and animals alike.

Zoo Director Jonathan Miot said the grant marks a major milestone in advancing the zoo’s long-term vision. “This will move our special space much closer towards our goal of becoming a zoological leader in creating active, immersive and global learning opportunities for all,” Miot said in the announcement. “We are thrilled the Rotary Clubs of Gainesville see our vision and will be part of our journey.”

The collaboration began more than 18 months ago when two senior Rotarians proposed the idea to the Rotary Clubs of Gainesville Board of Directors. After a series of discussions with zoo representatives, the project was officially approved for funding through the 2026 Wild Game Feast grant, one of the foundation’s key philanthropic programs.

Treehouse at the Heart of a New Vision

The planned Elevated Treehouse System and Learning Center will allow visitors to explore the zoo from a higher vantage point, creating new ways to observe exhibits and experience the natural environment. The design includes an outdoor classroom, multi-level play structures, and self-guided learning opportunities that emphasize interactive engagement with wildlife and conservation education.

The treehouse structure will be built by Treetop Builders, a specialty construction company based in Exton, Pennsylvania. The zoo also expects to incorporate additional interactive features showcasing the hidden lives of animals, giving guests a closer look at habitats and animal behaviors.

Construction could begin as soon as March 2026, following completion of the design and permitting phases.

Building on Accessibility and Education

The treehouse initiative builds on the zoo’s recent improvements to make its 10-acre facility more accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. It is also part of a broader master development plan supported by Gainesville-based consulting firm NV5, whose expertise helped outline the zoo’s path toward modernization and sustainability.

Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie said the master plan is a key investment in the future of both the zoo and its students. “This grant enables us to advance our plans to enhance the visitor experience to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo,” Broadie said. “Their expertise has been invaluable in this process, and the results will bolster our world-class zoo. The master plan will make our zoo a prime destination for visitors to our community, while giving our students additional training and learning opportunities to support sustainability, conservation, and preservation of animals across the region and around the world.”

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo remains the only college-based zoo in the nation accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Operated by roughly 100 students in the college’s Zoo Animal Technology program, the facility is home to more than 70 animal species ranging from small primates to exotic birds and reptiles.

Each year, the zoo welcomes approximately 70,000 visitors, drawing families, students and tourists to popular community events such as Boo at the Zoo, which brings in 5,000–7,000 guests for Halloween festivities, and Brew at the Zoo, held annually in May.

With the Rotary Foundation’s investment and the continued partnership of local organizations, Santa Fe College’s Teaching Zoo is poised to elevate its mission — quite literally — through an innovative treetop experience that blends conservation, education and community engagement.

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

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. (October 1, 2025) The Alachua County Supervisor of Elections Office will be present at a voter registration and vote-by-mail ballot request drive at the Village at Gainesville Senior Living Community on Friday, October 3 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

 Residents and staff will be able to register to vote or update their voter registration information, request or renew their request for a vote-by-mail ballot, and learn more about voting and elections in Alachua County.

 For more information about the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections Office's outreach activities, please visit VoteAlachua.gov or call 352-374-5252 during our normal business hours of Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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GAINESVILLE, FL (Oct. 1, 2025) – Fine Arts and Entertainment Technology at Santa Fe College (SF) announces their presenta on of “Shipwrecked! An Entertainment: The Adventures of Louis de Rougemont (As Told By Himself).”  Directed by Assistant Professor of Theatre Ma Lindsay, “Shipwrecked!” brings to life the fantas c true story of five characters — and a dog — lost at sea, flying wombats and buried treasure, as told by the man who lived through it. The performance will be held Oct. 10-11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Sasser Fine Arts Hall on the main SF campus at 3000 Northwest 83rd Street, Gainesville. Tickets may be purchased online by going to h ps://www.showpass.com/ and entering the presenta on name in the search.

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The following is a press release provided by the Gainesville (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~

Gainesville, FL – September 30, 2025 – The Gainesville (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated proudly joined thousands of members across the globe in celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Walk for Healthy Living, an initiative first launched in 1995 under the leadership of the organization’s 11th National President, Link Patricia Russell McCloud.

The Gainesville Chapter gathered for a spirited community walk, uniting members, families, and supporters to raise awareness of cardiovascular health while celebrating the joy and benefits of walking. From strengthening the heart and boosting energy to improving mood and extending life expectancy, walking remains one of the most accessible and impactful tools for long-term wellness.

“This walk is about more than fitness—it’s about fellowship, education, and empowerment,” said Alena Lawson Bennett, President of the Gainesville (FL) Chapter. “On this 30th anniversary, we are proud to walk together and engage the people in our area to promote living healthier lives and building stronger communities.”

National Movement, Local Impact

The Walk for Healthy Living is a signature national program of The Links, Incorporated, designed to Educate, Communicate, and Save Lives. Over the past three decades, thousands of members and communities have participated, from toddlers to centenarians, underscoring the importance of health equity and civic responsibility in communities of color.

By combining wellness with civic awareness, the Gainesville (FL) Chapter added its local impact to the national movement—proving that small steps create lasting change.

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High Springs Commissioner Robert Chad Howell, center, was honored as the 2025 High Springs Hero during the Sept. 22 City Commission meeting. Joining him for the recognition are, from left, Vice Mayor Andrew Miller, Mayor Tristan Grunder, Commissioner Wayne Bloodsworth Jr. and Commissioner Katherine Weitz. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ A local leader known for his military service, law enforcement career, and community involvement was honored during the Sept. 22 High Springs City Commission meeting. Commissioner Robert Chad Howell was recognized as this year’s High Springs Hero, an award highlighting an individual who exemplifies service, dedication, and commitment to the community.

Commissioner Katherine Weitz presented the recognition, reading aloud a proclamation that recounted Howell’s career and community service. The words detailed a life of public commitment that began more than two decades ago and has continued through military, professional, and civic roles.

Military Service and Law Enforcement Career

The proclamation began by noting Howell’s enlistment in the United States Marine Corps in 2001. His five years of service included a deployment to Okinawa, Japan, and two tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the proclamation, those years instilled in him a lasting sense of duty and a determination to serve.

After leaving the Marines in 2006, Howell moved to Alachua County in 2010. In 2013, he joined the Alachua Police Department, where he has spent the past 15 years. His career has spanned multiple roles, from patrol officer and school resource officer to detective and field training officer. He currently serves as detective sergeant overseeing the Criminal Investigations Division. The proclamation emphasized that he has approached each role with professionalism and dedication.

In addition to his police work, Howell pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a management focus from Saint Leo University in 2016 while balancing career and family responsibilities.

Community Contributions

The recognition extended beyond Howell’s professional work. Since relocating with his family to High Springs in 2018, he has become active in civic life, serving on the Parks and Recreation Board and participating in the Law Enforcement Family Memorial Crisis Fund. He has also organized charitable fundraisers, including cornhole tournaments, to support local causes.

In 2022, Howell received the Alachua Chamber of Commerce’s Officer of the Year Award, underscoring his impact within the broader community.

Family and Personal Life

The proclamation also highlighted Howell’s personal side, describing him as a devoted husband of 23 years and father of two daughters who attended High Springs Community School and Santa Fe High School. Friends and family members described him as passionate, patient, supportive, and charismatic, while his wife characterized him as selfless and compassionate.

Recognition as High Springs Hero

The proclamation concluded by recognizing Howell’s wide-ranging service and steady commitment to others. Audience members responded with a standing ovation, applauding his years of service to country, community, and family.

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Big Bend Swamp/Holopaw Ranch Florida Forever Project | Photo by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved the protection of 20,086 acres of critical conservation lands, representing a $167.25 million investment in Florida’s natural resources. Six of the properties are within the Florida Wildlife Corridor and another will expand Cary State Forest in Duval County. 

The Governor and Cabinet also approved the conveyance of a 2.63-acre parcel in Miami-Dade County adjacent to the Freedom Tower for the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library. 

“Yesterday’s approvals protect more than 20,000 acres of Florida’s most important landscapes,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “By conserving these lands, we are preserving clean water, safeguarding wildlife and ensuring future generations can experience the Florida we know and love.” 

About yesterday’s land acquisition approvals: 

Two conservation easements and one acquisition totaling 13,375 acres within the Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor in Collier and Hendry counties will enhance connectivity between the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve and Dinner Island Wildlife Management Area. These properties provide critical habitat for imperiled species such as the Florida panther, while supporting agricultural operations. These properties lie within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. 

3,094-acre conservation easement within the Little Orange Creek Corridor Florida Forever Project in Putnam County serves as a key connection within the Ocala-to-Osceola Wildlife Corridor, protecting habitat for rare and imperiled species. The landowner is actively restoring degraded hardwood forest and encroached sandhill, while safeguarding wetlands that help preserve the water quality of Little Orange Creek, a tributary of Orange Creek. This property lies within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. 

 A 1,670-acre conservation easement within the Bar-B Ranch Florida Forever Project in Martin County is located adjacent to the C-44 Stormwater Treatment Area and was identified for acquisition as part of the Indian River Lagoon-South project, a key component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. This working cattle ranch supports shallow water storage and regional water quality improvements that benefit the St. Lucie Estuary, the Indian River Lagoon and ultimately the Greater Everglades ecosystem. This property lies within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. 

1,400-acre conservation easement within the Big Bend Swamp/Holopaw Ranch Florida Forever Project in Osceola County will help link conservation lands between Bull Creek and the Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area. This working cattle ranch maintains a wildlife crossing under the Florida Turnpike, ensuring safe passage for animals and maintaining landscape connectivity. It also contributes to aquifer recharge and protects water flow into the Kissimmee-Okeechobee-Everglades system. This property lies within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. 

543-acre acquisition within the Northeast Florida Timberlands and Watershed Reserve Florida Forever Project in Duval County will protect habitat for species such as the gopher tortoise while restoring water quality in the Lower St. Johns River Basin. This parcel, previously approved for residential development, will instead be managed by the Florida Forest Service as part of Cary State Forest, expanding public outdoor recreation opportunities. 

4-acre acquisition in Okaloosa County will expand the City of Destin’s Norriego Point Beach Access and Park. The property will enhance public access by connecting the park to Gulf Shore Drive and increasing beachfront access, parking and opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming. The parcel will be managed by Okaloosa County in partnership with the City of Destin. 

The Governor and the Cabinet also approved the acquisition of permanent agricultural land conservation easements over more than 10,000 acres of working agricultural lands through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program

More information on today's land approvals can be found here

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Photo special to Alachua County Today

First Sweet Potato Festival Draws a Crowd

The Waldo Area Historical Society welcomed the community to Waldo City Square on Sept. 13, 2025, for the first-ever Sweet Potato Festival and Car Display. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., families enjoyed sweet potato dishes, admired classic cars, and connected with neighbors in a celebration of local heritage. Along with other numerous groups and vendors, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Motor Unit and Community Services Division joined the festivities, spending time with youth and engaging with residents during a day filled with sunshine, conversation, and hometown pride.

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