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Photo by Mark Ebey / Special to Alachua County Today

~ The following is a press release provided by the Alzheimer's Association. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~

GAINESVILLE, Fla., October 14, 2025  –  Nearly 1,000 Gainesville-area residents gathered Saturday at Trinity United Methodist Church for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising funds and awareness for a disease that affects more than 12% of Floridians age 65 and older.

Participants walked through the church grounds carrying colorful flowers that symbolized their personal connection to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Blue flowers represented those living with the disease, yellow honored caregivers, purple remembered loved ones lost, and orange showed support for a future without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

Gainesville resident Allie Jaffe carried a yellow flower in honor of her mother, who is living with Alzheimer’s. The diagnosis, she said, came as a shock to the family.

“This was devastating to me as my mom has always been the pillar of strength in our family,” Jaffe said. “She is still my mom, but not the mom from years past. I can still make her laugh, and that’s a good day.”

More than 7 million Americans are currently estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Florida has the second-highest number of residents living with the disease, making local support and fundraising efforts vital.

Walk Chair Christina Ebey said she walks in honor of many loved ones impacted by Alzheimer’s, including her grandmother and aunt, and the recent advances in treatment.

“I walk because every step brings us closer to hope, awareness and a cure,” Ebey said.

Continued funding for research has led to new FDA-approved treatments that can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. For the first time, families have hope for more time with their loved ones. However, these treatments are available only in the early stages of the disease, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis.

"This Walk is so important because it brings our community together to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and the impact it has on families every day,” said Ritchie Pickron, development manager for Walk to End Alzheimer's Gainesville. “By participating in this event, we’re not only funding critical research and treatments, but also helping people recognize the warning signs and understand where to turn for help. Awareness is the first step toward earlier diagnosis, better support, and ultimately, a cure.”

The event was nationally presented by Edward Jones. To date, participants have raised more than $113,000 to benefit care, support, research, advocacy and awareness initiatives through the Alzheimer’s Association Central and North Florida Chapter.

Donations are being accepted through Dec. 31 at alz.org/GainesvilleWalk. 

Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s. 

Alzheimer's Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900. 

GAINESVILLE ‒ A High Springs man was arrested Wednesday evening, Oct. 1, 2025, after allegedly driving under the influence, hitting multiple vehicles, and crashing into a wooden fence in northwest Gainesville. Deputies say the man, 42-year-old Jason Michael Hemphill, was more than twice the legal alcohol limit when tested nearly two hours after the incident.

The crash occurred around 5:39 p.m. near the intersection of Northwest 23^rd Avenue and Northwest 63^rd Terrace, where Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputies and a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Trooper responded to reports of a black Ram pickup truck that had left the roadway and struck a fence. Upon arrival, the trooper found Hemphill appearing visibly impaired and struggling to remain standing.

According to the arrest report, Hemphill’s driver’s license had been suspended since Aug. 30, 2025, the same day he was previously arrested in Bradford County on a separate DUI charge. At the Gainesville scene, witnesses reportedly told law enforcement that they saw Hemphill behind the wheel of the truck that struck their parked cars before veering off the road into the fence.

The trooper noted that Hemphill’s speech was slurred, his eyes were bloodshot and glassy, and his breath smelled strongly of alcohol. Hemphill allegedly made spontaneous remarks indicating confusion, saying he did not recall what had happened or understand the situation.

After being advised of his Miranda rights, Hemphill declined to answer further questions but agreed to perform field sobriety exercises. However, officers said he was only able to complete one — the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test — which he failed due to being unable to stand unassisted.

Following his arrest, Hemphill was transported to the Alachua County Jail, where he provided two breath samples registering 0.172 and 0.177, more than twice Florida’s legal blood-alcohol limit of 0.08. The tests were administered nearly two hours after the crash, suggesting his blood alcohol concentration had likely been higher at the time of the incident.

Hemphill was charged with driving under the influence (DUI), DUI with property damage, and driving with a suspended license. Court records show a history of prior offenses, including one felony conviction and five misdemeanors, one of which was violent.

His criminal history includes a 2014 arrest for leaving the scene of a crash with serious injury after hitting a cyclist and failing to render aid. He later entered a plea of nolo contendere and was sentenced to one year of house arrest followed by two years of probation, with adjudication withheld.

In 2023, Hemphill was arrested for stalking a manager at a former workplace. He again entered a plea of nolo contendere and was sentenced to one year of probation.

At the time of his most recent arrest, Hemphill was on pre-trial release following his August 30 DUI arrest in Bradford County, under conditions that prohibited him from possessing or consuming alcohol or illegal drugs.

Judge Jonathan Ramsey set Hemphill’s bail at $30,000. Court records indicate that prosecutors may seek to revoke his pre-trial release in the Bradford County case due to the new charges.

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ALACHUA ‒ Downtown Alachua added a new rhythm to its weekends on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, as the long-anticipated Market on Main officially debuted at Skinner Park, reintroducing a weekly market experience that celebrates local craftsmanship, small business, and homegrown creativity. From handmade soaps and jewelry to jams, cakes, greenery, woodworking, and tallow-based lotions, the market offered a vibrant mix of sights, scents, and flavors that signaled a fresh chapter for downtown activity.

Organized by the Alachua Business League, the new market is designed to showcase the creativity and entrepreneurship of local residents while giving downtown a renewed weekend attraction. The event marked the first regularly scheduled market in the city in several years. Opening-day attendance was steady, with shoppers filling the park early to browse, sample goods, and mingle with neighbors.

Previous farmers markets in Alachua — including those once hosted by the Alachua Chamber of Commerce — eventually faded as vendor participation and attendance declined. Organizers of the Market on Main say this new version was built for sustainability, featuring seasonal scheduling and a focus on locally made, artisan-quality goods alongside a selection of traditional produce.

Through March 2026, the market will operate Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beginning in April, it will transition to “Summer Nights,” taking place Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. through September. The dual schedule is designed to accommodate both vendors and visitors while offering flexibility during Florida’s warmer months.

The market’s variety reflects how the community’s small-business culture has evolved — from traditional farming to a diverse network of local makers, hobbyists, and independent retailers. The goal is to provide both a venue for traditional farmers market products and a platform for local entrepreneurs, as well as a welcoming gathering place for residents.

The Market on Main’s debut also comes amid regional discussions about the future of local markets. The long-standing Alachua County Farmers Market in Gainesville — in operation for more than 40 years — may soon close or relocate as county officials consider new uses for its site on U.S. Highway 441.

Alachua’s new market offers a convenient alternative for vendors and shoppers alike, combining the accessibility of downtown with the walkable, family-friendly character that defines the city’s historic district.

Although Skinner Park serves as the current site, city leaders are developing plans to eventually move the market to Main Street itself. A bollard system now in design would allow temporary street closures between Northwest 150^th Avenue and Northwest 148^th Place for community events such as the Market on Main, parades, and downtown festivals.

For many attendees, Saturday’s debut was about more than shopping — it was a chance to reconnect with neighbors and celebrate the creativity that defines small-town life. With strong community support, organizers hope the Market on Main will become a weekly tradition that showcases local talent, supports small business, and strengthens Alachua’s growing downtown identity.

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ALACHUA – The Alachua Chamber of Commerce has announced that applications are now open for the 2025 SportsFest Community Funds, an annual program that supports youth-focused organizations and initiatives within the City of Alachua.

Each year, proceeds from the Chamber’s SportsFest event are dedicated to programs that encourage youth development through education, leadership, teamwork, and community engagement. For 2025, the Chamber plans to distribute more than $20,000 to eligible organizations and projects that help local young people grow in body, mind, and spirit.

The SportsFest Community Funds have become a cornerstone of the Chamber’s commitment to investing in the next generation. Through past awards, local non-profits and youth-oriented programs have been able to expand services, improve facilities, and develop opportunities that promote positive growth for children and teens throughout the community.

The Chamber is now inviting non-profit organizations, community groups, and other qualified entities serving youth in Alachua to apply for this year’s funding. To be considered, projects must have a direct impact on local youth and align with the Chamber’s mission of fostering leadership, education, teamwork, and overall personal development.

Applications will be accepted from Oct. 1 through Nov. 14, 2025, with a firm submission deadline of 5 p.m. on Nov. 14. Applications can be submitted online at www.alachuachamber.com.

Chamber officials noted that multiple awards may be issued based on the number and quality of applications received. Projects that demonstrate community collaboration—particularly those able to secure matching funds—will receive extra consideration during the review process.

The Chamber emphasized that the SportsFest Community Funds reflect a longstanding local tradition of uniting businesses, residents, and organizations around the shared goal of building stronger futures for young people. By supporting educational and recreational programs, the initiative encourages youth to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and a lifelong commitment to community service.

Community leaders and past participants have praised the program for its lasting impact on area schools, clubs, and civic organizations. The funding not only helps fill resource gaps but also inspires ongoing partnerships between the Chamber and local stakeholders.

Interested applicants are encouraged to review eligibility guidelines and prepare proposals early to ensure consideration before the deadline.

For additional information about the SportsFest Community Funds or the application process, visit the Chamber’s website or contact the Alachua Chamber of Commerce directly.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ Members of the GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club gathered at High Springs Community School to recognize six custodians in celebration of National Custodians Month this October.

Each honoree received a book and a thank-you card containing a gift card as a token of appreciation for their daily contributions to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students and staff. Pictured are Woman’s Club members and school staff during the presentation, held in the school’s main hallway beneath patriotic artwork and framed student photographs.

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HIGH SPRINGS – Downtown High Springs will once again come alive with color, creativity, and community connection as the seasonal High Springs Art Walk returns to the city’s historic downtown district on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, from noon to 5 p.m. The fall event will feature between 15 and 20 local artists and makers, each showcasing their talents along the sidewalks of the walkable downtown area.

The Art Walk series has become one of High Springs’ signature events, celebrating the city’s small-town charm and thriving arts culture. Visitors strolling through downtown will encounter booths filled with original artwork, crafts, and handmade goods, while also enjoying the variety of restaurants, cafés, and locally owned shops that contribute to the town’s welcoming atmosphere.

Event organizers describe the Art Walk as an open-air showcase for artists and artisans to both display and sell their creations. Each participating merchant will also offer special promotions or sales during the afternoon, encouraging attendees to explore the area and support local businesses.

Adding to the weekend’s artistic offerings, Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies will host a special two-week exhibition featuring the work of artist Shawn Dell Joyce. The gallery will present a casual pop-up art reception during the Art Walk, inviting visitors to browse the featured pieces while enjoying light appetizers. The exhibition will remain on display for two weeks following the event, allowing art enthusiasts additional opportunities to view and purchase Joyce’s work.

Meanwhile, the GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club will participate in the festivities with a fundraising booth set up in front of Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies. The club will be selling its new custom cookbook, original watercolor artwork, and a selection of decorative rubber ink stamps to help support its ongoing community projects and programming.

Organizers encourage both residents and visitors to take advantage of the relaxed setting to meet artists, discover unique creations, and enjoy a day celebrating the town’s artistic and entrepreneurial spirit.

Artists or makers interested in participating in future Art Walk events are invited to send a photo of their work to downtownhighsprings@gmail.com for consideration.

For more information, customers or media representatives may contact Unique Notions at 352-318-5719 or Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies at 352-474-1049.

The High Springs Art Walk is a collaboration between local artists, businesses, and community organizations—an event that continues to highlight the city’s enduring reputation as a destination for creativity, craftsmanship, and friendly small-town hospitality.

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