Local

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

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

ALACHUA – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is intensifying its efforts to locate and address the hundreds of vessels displaced across the state after the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

FWC, in a statement released Oct. 24, 2024, said that Florida, celebrated as "The Boating Capital of the World," faced severe challenges as high winds and storm surges from these hurricanes pushed boats ashore, damaged those docked in marinas, and even left some partially or completely submerged in state waters.

To manage the aftermath, FWC has deployed 17 additional officers alongside three derelict vessel (DV) specialists to the heavily affected southwest region of the state. Their mission is to identify and assess boats that have become derelict due to the hurricanes, ensuring safety on the waterways and protecting the environment from potential hazards.

"We understand the difficulties caused by the recent hurricanes," said Maj. Bill Holcomb, FWC's Boating and Waterways Section Leader. "Our officers and DV specialists are working diligently to identify displaced and damaged vessels statewide. We are dedicated to helping boat owners locate their vessels and ensuring the removal of any boats from state waters that threaten the environment, obstruct waterways, or were rendered derelict."

Removing displaced vessels can hasten the recovery and overall resilience of native marine plants and animals. To report a lost or sunken vessel, vessel owners can call the FWC Boating and Waterways Section at 850‐488‐5600. Operators will be available to help Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.   

Options for Vessel Owners

Vessel owners are being encouraged to hire professional salvage companies to recover their boats. This approach aims to minimize further environmental impact, accelerating the recovery of local marine life and ecosystems. However, the FWC recognizes that not all boat owners may have the resources to manage such operations.

In cases where vessels are beyond repair or owners cannot afford to facilitate the salvage, they can initiate a waiver process to relinquish ownership. This can be arranged by contacting the FWC Boating and Waterways Section at 850-488-5600, where representatives can assist with the process. Maj. Holcomb emphasizes the urgency of these actions, noting, "Owners of vessels that have become derelict have 45 days to either remove their vessel or bring it into a non-derelict condition."

Environmental Concerns and Public Safety

Displaced vessels pose multiple risks, including potential oil spills, obstruction of waterways, and damage to marine habitats. FWC’s priority is to manage these risks swiftly, removing boats that could contribute to environmental harm or hinder navigation. Anyone witnessing oil spills or hazardous material releases should contact the State Watch Office at 800-342-3557.

The recovery efforts underscore the importance of community involvement. Those with information about non-vessel debris in state waters are advised to reach out to the Florida Debris Hotline at 850-366-6007. Vessel owners whose boats have washed ashore should coordinate with local sheriff's offices for assistance.

For additional questions or resource materials regarding waterway debris or derelict vessels, call 850-366-6007 or visit FloridaDebrisCleanup.com.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

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.

#     #     #

Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com

A sea of pumpkins awaits at the Alachua Methodist Church’s 24th Annual Pumpkin Patch, offering a colorful selection of gourds and family-friendly activities throughout October. Visitors can explore unique varieties and enjoy photo ops, all while supporting the church’s mission work.

ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Methodist Church’s beloved Pumpkin Patch is back for its 24^th year, marking the arrival of fall with a colorful array of pumpkins, gourds, and family-friendly activities. Located along U.S. Highway 441 on the west side of Alachua, the event has become a local tradition, drawing families who come to pick out the perfect pumpkin, capture memorable photos, and support the church’s mission work.

The church’s pumpkin patch is more than just a place to buy pumpkins; it’s a community gathering spot that delights visitors of all ages. This year’s harvest includes a variety of pumpkins and gourds in all shapes, sizes, and colors, offering something for everyone. In past years, the lineup has included not only the classic orange pumpkins but also unique varieties such as Swan Gourds, Gizmo Gourds, Winged Gourds, and Elf Houses. For those seeking a more unconventional look, be sure to check out pumpkins in shades of white, green, black, yellow, and even peach.

Each pumpkin is artfully arranged in displays that invite visitors to snap a photo or two, and the church has set up three dedicated photo spots, including one featuring a vintage tractor that has become a favorite backdrop for fall family portraits. Many families return year after year, using the photo area to document their growth and create cherished memories.

For younger visitors, the Pumpkin Patch offers open-air activity areas that cater to children’s enjoyment, making it a perfect weekend outing for families. Tractor rides and story times are scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. New this year is the Clatter Corral, an assortment of hanging cooking and baking pots and pans, which has already been reported as one of children’s favorites where they are encouraged to make noise. Youngsters won’t want to miss the Kids Corral where they can play Frisbee golf, corn hole and pumpkin bowling.

Beyond the fun and festivity, the Pumpkin Patch serves a greater purpose. All proceeds from pumpkin sales go toward funding the Alachua Methodist Church’s mission work, supporting outreach efforts both locally and beyond. The event is a true community effort, with church members coming together to unload thousands of pumpkins, create eye-catching displays, and work shifts throughout October.

The scale of the event is impressive, with around 20,000 pumpkins sold each year, along with homemade pumpkin bread that has become a sought-after treat for visitors. Organizing the patch is a team effort, involving church volunteers of all ages who pitch in to ensure the patch runs smoothly.

Located at 15710 N.W. U.S. Highway 441 in Alachua, the Pumpkin Patch runs throughout the month of October. Pumpkin Patch Hours are Monday – Friday: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

With its festive displays and family-centered atmosphere, it’s a perfect destination to embrace the season and support a worthy cause. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin or just looking to enjoy a bit of fall fun, the Alachua Methodist Church’s Pumpkin Patch is ready to welcome you.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 25, 2024) – The City of Gainesville Transportation Department today announced a number of changes to its Regional Transit System (RTS) bus services aimed at managing budget constraints linked to reductions in federal, state and local funding as well as abnormally high increases in operating costs over the past three years.

Although passenger counts are moving steadily back toward pre-pandemic levels, with Fiscal Year 2024 ridership increasing 7.3 percent compared to the previous year (5.5 million compared to 5.1 million), this is not enough to cover rising costs. As a result, RTS is among the public transit agencies nationwide seeking new revenue sources while streamlining to reduce costs.

• Holiday Service

RTS discontinued holiday service as of Oct. 1, 2024. The bus routes previously scheduled on Veterans Day, Black Friday and Christmas Eve will not run this year.

• Paratransit Service

For eligible riders who have a disability that prevents them from making some or all of their trips on the fixed-route buses, RTS offers a shared ride door-to-door service called Paratransit. Beginning Oct. 1, 2024, this service has been scaled back to locations within three-quarters of a mile from a fixed route.

• Fare Free

To ensure the program is working as intended, beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, riders who are 18 and younger and 65 and older will require a pass for Fare Free boarding. RTS will add an online application webpage to register for these passes before year’s end.

 RTS and UF Partnership

 The city and the University of Florida are continuing discussions to improve route efficiency for students while maintaining a public transit system that works for all riders.

 “We value our partners in the City of Gainesville and look forward to continuing to work with them on this vital issue,” said Brandi Renton, UF’s interim vice president for business affairs.

 As UF continues reassessing the most efficient use of student transportation fees, adjustments are planned for some routes that have been funded by the University.

 Route 25 to Gainesville Regional Airport

Route 25 will end with the start of spring service on Jan. 3, 2025. Given this route's low UF ridership, and to be good stewards of the student funds that finance this route, the University of Florida will reallocate those assets to other student transportation solutions.

 UF Route Changes

The following route changes are recommended by UF to improve efficiency and service to students and other campus riders. If agreed upon by both sides, the following route modifications would take effect with the start of RTS spring service on Jan. 3, 2025.

 Route 125 – UF Campus Connectors will operate this route.

• Route 122 – Returns to the original north/south orientation.
• Route 150 – UF assumes operation of this route.
• Route 1 – Route moved to enter/exit campus on Museum Road to stop at the Reitz Union before resuming the regular route.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

ALACHUA COUNTY – The 2024 General Election is rapidly approaching, and residents of Alachua County will have the chance to cast their ballots early, starting on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024. From Oct. 21 to Nov. 3, voters can take advantage of early voting at any of the county’s eight designated locations between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. This option allows voters to avoid potential Election Day crowds and vote at a time that best suits their schedule.

Eight Early Voting Locations

• Supervisor of Elections Office: 515 N. Main Street, Gainesville, FL 32601
• Millhopper Branch Library: 3145 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606
• Tower Road Branch Library: 3020 SW 75th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608
• Hawthorne Community Center: 6700 SE 221st Street, Hawthorne, FL 32640
• Legacy Park Multipurpose Center: 15400 Peggy Rd, Alachua, FL 32615
• J. Wayne Reitz Union: 655 Reitz Union Drive, UF Campus, Gainesville, FL 32611
• Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center: 23100 W Newberry Rd, Newberry, FL 32669
• (New) Santa Fe College: S-029, 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606

Key Details for Voters

• Early Voting Period: Oct. 21 – Nov. 3, 2024
• Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
• Eligibility: All registered voters in Alachua County can participate, regardless of party affiliation. Voters will be able to select candidates within their electoral districts and vote on state constitutional and county charter amendments.

Vote-by-Mail Drop-Off and

Secure Ballot Intake Stations

During early voting, voters can also deliver their completed vote-by-mail ballots to Secure Ballot Intake Stations located outside each early voting site. These stations will be available during voting hours and monitored by trained attendants to ensure security.

After early voting concludes, the Secure Ballot Intake Station will only be available at the Supervisor of Elections Office on Monday, Nov. 4 (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5 (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

Election Day for the 2024 General Election will take place on Nov. 5, 2024. Voters who wish to participate must have registered by Oct. 7, 2024.

Voters must present valid photo and signature identification at the polling sites. A full list of acceptable forms of ID can be found at VoteAlachua.gov or by calling the Supervisor of Elections Office at 352-374-5252.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com