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ALACHUA COUNTY ‒ With flu season approaching, the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County has begun offering flu immunizations to the public, emphasizing the critical importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the influenza virus. Health officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and the community during what is expected to be an active flu season.

Paul Myers, Administrator of the Alachua County Health Department, stressed the importance of vaccination as a key preventive measure against flu. In addition to vaccination, it is recommended to stay home when sick, practice proper cough etiquette, and wash hands to protect yourself and the community.

The health department is offering both the FluMist® nasal spray and traditional flu shots. FluMist® is available at school-based clinics, making it convenient for parents to immunize their children. Meanwhile, both FluMist® and flu shots are available at all health department locations across the county.

For older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, the department is offering high-dose vaccines, including Fluzone® and Flublok®, which are designed to provide stronger protection for individuals who may be more vulnerable to complications from the flu.

Clinic Locations for Flu Immunizations:

East Gainesville Clinic (Main Headquarters)

224 SE 24th Street

Phone: 352-334-7910

Alachua Clinic (Hitchcock’s Shopping Plaza)

15530 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua

Phone: 386-462-2542

Southwest Clinic

816 SW 64th Terrace, Gainesville

Phone: 352-225-4320

Appointments are required for flu immunizations, and residents are encouraged to call their preferred clinic to schedule a time. This year’s vaccines are designed to be effective against the major flu strains anticipated to circulate, providing vital protection during the peak months of flu season.

The regular flu vaccine is priced at $25. High-dose vaccines for seniors may vary in cost, but residents who are Medicare Part B holders can receive their vaccine at no charge if they bring their Medicare card. Children and adolescents between the ages of six months and 18 years may qualify for free flu vaccines if they are uninsured, underinsured, or have Medicaid coverage.

For a quicker and smoother experience at the clinic, residents are encouraged to visit Alachua.FloridaHealth.gov to access and complete necessary forms before their visit.

With the flu virus typically spreading during the fall and winter months, the health department is urging early vaccination to maximize protection. Vaccines can help reduce hospitalizations, lessen the severity of symptoms, and protect high-risk individuals, such as young children, seniors, and people with chronic medical conditions.

Each year, thousands of people are hospitalized or die from the flu and by getting vaccinated, you are not only safeguarding your health but also helping to protect those who are most vulnerable in the community.

The vaccine is effective against major circulating flu strains. High-dose Fluzone® or Flublok® shots are available for those aged 65 and older.

The cost is $25 for the regular-dose vaccine, while high-dose prices may vary. Medicare Part B holders should bring their card to obtain an immunization at no charge.

Those aged six months to 18 years may receive the vaccine at no cost if they are uninsured, underinsured, or have Medicaid.

For additional information and to access forms for a quicker visit, visit Alachua.FloridaHealth.gov.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ On a crisp, sunny Saturday afternoon, downtown High Springs came alive with a celebration of local artistry as the town’s much-loved ArtWalk took over the sidewalks. From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., sidewalks stretching from Main Street to U.S. Highway 27 were lined with artists and makers, turning the town center into a vibrant open-air gallery. The event attracted locals and visitors eager to experience the creativity and charm that have become hallmarks of this event.

The perfect fall weather added to the day’s allure, with clear blue skies inviting art lovers to stroll the bustling sidewalks. Against the backdrop of High Springs' historic architecture, attendees explored a diverse collection of artworks displayed in front of local businesses. The ArtWalk featured an impressive range of creative expressions, from colorful paintings and elegant ceramics to intricate handcrafted jewelry and playful woven crafts like crocheted tote bags and whimsical animal figures. Each booth offered something unique, captivating the imagination and appealing to every artistic taste.

High Springs’ downtown charm was on full display, as restaurants and shops joined in the event’s spirit. Patrons moved seamlessly between art displays and cozy eateries while mingling with artists and other visitors.

A standout of the ArtWalk was Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies, which opened its doors to showcase the folk art of Mike Segal. Known for his vibrant depictions of coastal life, Segal’s work drew many admirers. Having recently lost his Cedar Key Island Arts Coop location to Hurricane Helene, Segal brought his Cedar Key-inspired pieces to High Springs, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the island’s beauty and resilience through his art.

Just across the street, the High Springs Fall Festival was in full swing, creating a lively exchange of visitors between both events. Many attendees made their way back and forth, enjoying the energetic atmosphere of the festival alongside the quieter, reflective spaces of the ArtWalk. The dual events created a seamless blend of creativity and community celebration, making the entire downtown area the heart of High Springs’ autumn festivities.

ArtWalk is more than just a display of creativity—it’s a testament to the town’s vibrant cultural scene. Supported by local merchants, this series of seasonal gatherings provides local artists with a platform to share their talents, engage with the community, and connect with art enthusiasts. For the artists, it’s a chance to showcase their work and find new audiences; for visitors, it’s an opportunity to discover new art and meet the people behind the creations.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ On a beautiful, sunny Saturday, the High Springs community gathered for the much-anticipated Fall Festival, a vibrant celebration of autumn and Halloween spirit. Held behind City Hall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event was organized by the High Springs Chamber of Commerce, transforming the area into a bustling hub of crafts, food, music, and family-friendly activities.

The mild weather set the stage for a day filled with fun, where local organizations and vendors came together to offer something for everyone. Attendees were greeted by rows of tents displaying a rich array of crafts and handmade creations, from pottery and wood carvings to freeze-dried candies and jams. Each vendor brought a unique touch, creating a lively atmosphere that drew in locals and visitors alike.

Positioned near the town’s iconic rust-colored train caboose, a string quintet played soothing tunes that floated through the air, adding a harmonious charm to the festival ambiance. Families strolled through the area, enjoying the variety of sights and sounds.

For the young and young-at-heart, the kids’ corral featured two exciting bounce houses. A tiger-themed bounce house with bold black and orange stripes attracted the little ones, while older kids thrilled at the bounce house with a towering slide. Laughter and cheers filled the air as kids bounded around in these inflatable playgrounds.

Amid the festive activities, the approaching election made its presence known. Candidates for various positions and causes set up booths, sharing their platforms and engaging with the community, eager to connect with potential voters.

Just steps away, the High Springs Museum opened its doors to offer tours, delighting children and adults with intricate model train displays. Inside, train collectors showcased their elaborate setups, with tiny engines chugging along tracks to the fascination of both kids and adults.

The festival also provided opportunities for community support. The High Springs New Century Women’s Club hosted their fall bake sale featuring homemade desserts, including bread, pies, cookies and cakes fund local charities. Meanwhile, a table sponsored by the Methodist Church and located in front of the Women’s Club invited kids to decorate fall-themed stickers—adorning owls, squirrels, and butterflies—with colorful creativity.

Complementing the festival’s charm, the downtown area hosted a thriving Art Walk, showcasing local artistry.

With an enjoyable mix of activities, community spirit, and perfect weather, the Fall Festival was sure to please residents and visitors alike.

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ALACHUA ‒ This Halloween, Alachua is inviting families to a spooky yet family-friendly event that promises a memorable evening for trick-or-treaters of all ages. The annual Trick-or-Treat on Main and “Scarecrow Row” will return on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, with a special twist: this year’s theme is inspired by the classic 1988 movie “Beetlejuice.”

The event, organized by the Alachua Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and feature candy, costumes, and plenty of whimsical Halloween fun.

Annually, the Saturday before Halloween, Main Street Alachua is transformed into a pedestrian-friendly zone, allowing children to safely trick-or-treat from one decorated storefront to the next. Local businesses are participating by handing out candy to kids in costume, creating a vibrant trick-or-treating route along the heart of downtown.

“The trick-or-treating experience on Main Street is something families look forward to every year,” said Alachua Chamber of Commerce President Adam Boukari. “This year’s Beetlejuice theme is going to make the evening extra special, with businesses really going all out on their decorations. It’s a great way to bring our community together in a fun and safe way.”

In addition to the sweet treats being given away by local merchants, the Chamber has arranged for a photo booth featuring Beetlejuice offering a fun backdrop for capturing memories of the night.

Adding to the Halloween fun is the annual Scarecrow Row, a Chamber sponsored showcase of creative scarecrow displays lining Main Street. This year’s Beetlejuice theme has inspired local artists, businesses, and community groups to create scarecrows featuring iconic scenes and characters from the film, such as Beetlejuice himself, Lydia, and the eerie sandworms. From spooky to whimsical, the displays are sure to delight visitors of all ages.  

Families can stroll down Main Street, marveling at the 34 Beetlejuice scarecrow displays, each one more creative than the last. Prizes of $300, $200 and $100 will be awarded for first, second and third place respectively with the winners to be announced during Trick-Or-Treat on Main Street

Corporate sponsors for this year’s Scarecrow Row are the Alachua Business League, Alachua Today Newspaper/Boukari Law, Campus USA, Canvass Church, Cisco South RDC, Matchmaker Realty, Optimal Station, Polaris of Gainesville, Santa Fe Ford, The Seed and WastePro.

With community safety in mind, Main Street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event hours. Additionally, families are encouraged to bring flashlights and wear reflective accessories to ensure visibility as they enjoy the event. Local police will be on hand to assist and ensure a smooth experience for all attendees. Parents are also encouraged to review trick-or-treating safety tips with their children before the event.

Trick-Or-Treat on Main Street is free to attend, and all families are welcome. Parking will be available at nearby lots, but spaces are expected to fill up quickly, so early arrival is recommended. For more details about the annual Trick-or-Treat on Main and Scarecrow Row visit the Chamber’s website at https://www.alachuachamber.com/trick-or-treat-on-main-scarecrow-row.

With spooky decorations, creative scarecrow displays, and plenty of candy, this year’s Scarecrow Row and trick-or-treat event promises to be the perfect way for families to celebrate. Whether you’re a fan of Beetlejuice or just looking for a safe place to enjoy the holiday, Main Street is the place to be this Saturday evening

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Gainesville ‒ In a surprise decision Oct. 15, 2024, the Alachua County School Board voted to fire Superintendent Shane Andrew. The termination, which is effective Nov. 15, was spearheaded by Board member Kay Abbitt and passed narrowly in a 3-2 vote.

In a highly contentious special meeting held Oct. 21, the Board was set to select an interim superintendent to fill the vacancy left by Andrew’s departure. After considerable discussion and input from the community, the Board was unable to name a person to fill the position.

Several residents and parents spoke out and raised concerns that an interim would be selected just weeks before new Board members would take their seats.

During the meeting, Board members reflected on their previous vote. Sarah Rockwell and Tina Certain, who both voted against Andrew’s termination, expressed their dissatisfaction with the process. Rockwell stated that she felt blindsided by how quickly the vote occurred and was upset with how events transpired. Certain acknowledged that while Andrew was still learning on the job and had areas to improve, she did not believe termination was the right course of action at that time.

On the other hand, Leanetta McNealy and Kay Abbitt, who both voted for Andrew’s termination, stood by their decision. McNealy shared the challenges she faced in trying to recruit candidates for the interim position, noting that many declined due to the Board’s divided vote. She also dismissed the possibility of Andrew returning, citing personal reasons for his inability to resume the role.

Chairwoman Diyonne McGraw, who cast the decisive third vote to terminate Andrew’s contract, defended her position despite the criticism. Reflecting on her four-year term, which ends in November, McGraw stated, “I don’t like the fact that people insinuate that I did something wrong,” expressing frustration with the backlash she has received.

Board members inquired Oct. 21 if Deputy Superintendent Cathy Atria would consider stepping in as interim superintendent. Atria appeared reluctant, said she would consider it, but needed to consult with legal counsel before committing.

Andrew, the seventh superintendent in 10 years, leaves behind a district still grappling with financial challenges and ongoing tensions over leadership decisions. The next meeting will likely focus on selecting an interim leader while the Board prepares for a national search to find a permanent replacement.

Andrew’s termination came during a meeting meant to review Board members' evaluations of Andrew’s performance. Abbitt, who rated Andrew’s overall performance as “Needs Improvement,” made the unexpected motion to terminate his contract, citing the evaluations as evidence for the need for “new leadership.” Board members were divided, with some calling for change and others defending Andrew’s performance.

The Board's evaluations of Andrew varied significantly, with ratings spanning from “Effective” to “Unsatisfactory.” Chairwoman McGraw and member McNealy rated him as “Effective,” while Abbitt and Rockwell assessed his performance as “Needs Improvement.” Certain delivered the lowest rating, deeming Andrew's performance “Unsatisfactory.”

A notable point of contention arose when Rockwell criticized the absence of Andrew's self-evaluation from the process, which McGraw clarified was not required by policy. However, Rockwell and Certain expressed concerns that important priorities, such as rezoning and strategic planning, were not adequately addressed in Andrew’s evaluations.

After accepting the evaluations, Abbitt reiterated her belief that the district required new leadership. She proposed appointing an interim superintendent immediately and initiating a national search for a permanent replacement.

Board Member Certain, though agreeing with the need for new leadership, opposed appointing an interim superintendent, preferring instead to begin a direct search for a permanent replacement. McNealy, while expressing concerns over the current direction of the district, supported Abbitt’s motion for immediate action, noting that she did not see the district moving forward with Andrew based on the divided Board.

Chairwoman McGraw strongly defended Andrew, pointing to data that she said showed improvements in closing the achievement gap between African American and white students under his leadership. McGraw acknowledged the frustrations of the Board but urged members to focus on the students, citing to positive data and things moving in a positive direction. While academic progress was being made, McGraw said she was disappointed that personal disagreements were influencing Board decisions.

Despite McGraw’s defense, Abbitt’s motion moved forward, and after public comments, the Board voted 3-2 to terminate Andrew’s contract. McGraw ultimately cast the decisive vote to remove Andrew, despite her earlier defense.

Despite a lengthy discussion about potential candidates, the Board was unable to reach a decision during the Oct. 21 meeting, which ended without an appointment, leaving the leadership of the school district uncertain until the Board reconvenes on Nov. 4.

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NEWBERRY – In a brief session, Newberry’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board convened to hold a public hearing and discuss the adoption of the CRA budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. The budget, amounting to $1,145,390, was presented by Newberry Assistant City Manager and CFO Dallas Lee, and received unanimous approval from the board.

The CRA is focused on revitalizing and improving areas that are economically distressed or underdeveloped. The CRA uses tax increment financing (TIF) to fund improvements like roads, utilities, and public spaces, aiming to attract businesses, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents.

During the meeting, there were no questions or comments from the public regarding the proposed budget.

City Manager Mike New highlighted that a significant portion of the budget — approximately $1 million — has been designated for critical infrastructure improvements within the CRA District.

These funds will be directed towards projects aimed at enhancing the district’s roads, utilities, and overall accessibility, which are considered essential to fostering economic growth and development in the area.

The CRA's commitment to infrastructure underscores its long-term goal of revitalizing areas within the district and attracting new businesses and investments.

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