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NEWBERRY ‒ Two 18-year-old men were arrested on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, after allegedly leading law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase from Gilchrist County into Alachua County. The pursuit began when the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office received an alert at about 6:27 a.m. about a dark-colored sedan traveling eastbound on State Road 26. Deputies soon spotted the vehicle near the 17500 block of West Newberry Road.

Despite the deputies’ attempts to pull over the car, the driver continued to evade officers, reportedly reaching speeds over 100 mph. The chase continued until deputies deployed stop sticks, deflating the car's tires and forcing it to a stop along Northwest 143^rd Street/County Road 241. The sedan ultimately crashed in the 5600 block of CR 241.

After the crash, the driver, later identified as Donell Kensha Moultrie, allegedly attempted to flee on foot with the front-seat passenger, Caleb James Martin. Deputies quickly apprehended Moultrie, who reportedly returned to the vehicle soon after and admitted to being the driver.

Moultrie was charged with fleeing an officer with active lights and sirens, resisting arrest without violence, and driving with a suspended license due to unpaid traffic fines.

Martin allegedly fled eastbound through a nearby field, and deputies engaged in a foot pursuit. At about 3:05 p.m., deputies located Martin, and he allegedly fled on foot again with deputies eventually taking him into custody.

The arresting deputy reported that dash camera footage from a patrol vehicle showed that Martin had a gun in his right hand when he got out of the car and then threw it to the rear of the vehicle in an effort to conceal it from law enforcement. The gun, a Glock 19 with an extended magazine, was reportedly found by deputies.

Martin is an adjudicated delinquent, meaning he was previously found guilty of an offense that would be a felony for an adult, and he is prohibited from possessing a firearm until he is 24. Deputies also reportedly found a Glock 43 on CR 241. Martin is also facing charges of fleeing, resisting arrest, and illegal possession of a firearm, with bail set at $7,500 by Judge DeThomasis.

Post Miranda, Martin reportedly admitted that he had fled and said he fled because he was “in fear due to a large amount of white people around him.”

Moultrie has no adult convictions but at least one juvenile conviction. He is facing two sworn complaints filed on Oct. 17, but has not yet been booked on those charges. One sworn complaint charged him with possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, possession of a firearm by an adjudicated delinquent and possession of drug paraphernalia, and the other one charged him with possession of a firearm by an adjudicated delinquent.

Bail was set for Moultrie at $8,000 by Judge DeThomasis.

A third passenger, Phillipe Chisolm, was arrested at the scene due to an active warrant.

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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 – A 54-year-old man was arrested on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 20, 2024, after allegedly damaging property at El Patio Restaurant, located at 18576 High Springs Main Street. Daniel Don Green, reportedly homeless, was taken into custody by the High Springs Police Department (HSPD) and charged with property damage following an incident in which he allegedly kicked out part of a stall door in the women’s restroom.

According to the HSPD, an officer responded to the scene around 12:44 p.m., where the restaurant owner reported that Green had entered the women’s restroom and intentionally damaged the bottom portion of the stall door. The estimated repair cost is $175. After being read his Miranda rights, Green reportedly admitted to both entering the women’s restroom and causing the damage.

Green has a history of criminal convictions, with nine felonies and 19 misdemeanors on his record, one of which was for a violent offense. He has previously served a state prison sentence and was released in 2002. Currently, Green is on probation for grand theft, which may impact the handling of this recent charge.

Judge Kristine Van Vorst set Green’s bail at $5,000.

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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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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission approved several significant items on second reading during their Oct. 28, 2024, meeting, while postponing one item for additional review. Key decisions included the re-adoption of ordinances related to residential development and urban planning, as well as preliminary approval of a new community development district.

Westone and Urban Service

Boundary Ordinances

The Commission gave final approval to two re-adopted ordinances. Ordinance 2024-34 confirmed the Westone Planned Residential Development, a large-scale project spanning 258 acres. This development, approved for 850 homes, underwent adjustments to its large-scale land use amendment due to statutory requirements. An extension from the Florida Department of Commerce allowed Newberry until Oct. 31, 2024, to re-adopt the ordinance and ensure compliance with state law. Additionally, adjustments were made to exclude certain areas with pending environmental concerns raised by Alachua County.

Ordinance 2024-35 focused on the Urban Service Boundary, aimed at aligning the city’s comprehensive plan with future development goals. This re-adoption enables boundary amendments to square off the Urban Service Area and supports growth in line with Newberry’s Future Land Use Element.

Community Development Districts (CDDs)

The Westone development’s proposed CDD received preliminary approval on Oct. 14, 2024, with the second reading deferred to Nov. 12 due to Commissioner Monty Farnsworth’s request for additional review. The Westone development is a large-scale residential project approved for 258 acres near Southwest 15^th Avenue and Southwest 266^th Street. This CDD, if fully approved, would allow long-term financing for Westone’s infrastructure through tax-exempt bonds. Discussions highlighted potential city risks in managing the district debt and wastewater capacity reservations, resulting in updated conditions that include a required interlocal agreement to set wastewater capacities and other operational terms.

The Ranch Community Development District, covering a 255-acre property owned by NC Ranch #1, LLC, was also addressed. In its first reading on Oct. 28, the petition to establish a CDD for Phase 1, comprising 300 single-family homes, 125 senior housing units, and 75,000 square feet of storage space, received unanimous approval. This development has a target completion date of 2030 and is now scheduled for a second reading on Nov. 12.

City Initiatives

City Manager Mike New announced upcoming community initiatives, including a Peanut Butter Drive supporting the University of Florida's IFAS program and a canned goods drive benefiting the local organization Blessed Hope. Additionally, Newberry secured a $50,000 grant from the state Division of Historic Resources to conduct ground-penetrating radar surveys of an African American cemetery near Easton, with the goal of preserving historical records.

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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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