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Event to honor all branches of the military, featuring a celebration of "Gators in Space"; static military and civilian aircraft displays; classic cars; children’s activities; live music; food trucks, aircraft rides over “The Swamp”

GAINESVILLE, Fla., Feb. 12, 2025 – Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) and its FBO, the University Air Center (UAC) will once again host the popular Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day Saturday, March 22, 2025.

A fly-in is a gathering for pilots who arrive by air. The event takes place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (pre-event pancake breakfast at 8:30 a.m.) at University Air Center, 4701 NE 40th Terrace, Gainesville, Fla. (Enter at General Aviation Entrance, Waldo Road) and is open to the public. Admission and parking are free, and a complimentary shuttle will be provided.

“Our annual Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day is our way of honoring all branches of the military, including some great dignitaries, military and civil aviators who will be flying in many different types of aircraft to the UAC for the event,” says Allan Penksa, CEO, Gainesville Regional Airport. “It’s an exciting day for our community — especially anyone who is curious about flight — to learn more about aviation. This year we are especially focused on celebrating 'Gators in Space'. And as always, we look forward to sharing this incredibly special celebration at our airport with the community.”

Celebrating Gators in Space and our Military

Planned events include opening ceremonies with a color guard and flyovers, most notably the “Flown West” ceremony for those who have gone before us. The pre-event fun begins with a continuation of our celebration of the late Col. Joe Kittinger, the first Gator in Space, with the third annual “Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast” at 8:30 a.m., with donations going to Col. Joe’s favorite charity, the International Sky Diving Museum & Hall of Fame (www.skydivingmuseum.org). In addition, Col. Joe’s autobiography, “Come Up and Get Me,” will be available for purchase at the event for $25. At 10 a.m., the gates will open to the public, with all participating aircraft in place. Opening ceremonies begin promptly at 11 a.m., with the National Anthem, sung by Mary Jo Wheeler, (USAF, ret.). At 11:15 a.m. a “Flown West” ceremony will commence, planned to include T34 Mentor and T6 Texan aircraft. In addition, invited dignitaries will make speeches. (Invited Distinguished Aviators include Dr. Robert Ferl, distinguished UF molecular biology professor and director of the new UF Astraeus Space Institute; Mike Ginter, Head of Airline Owner and Pilot’s Association’s [AOPA’s] Air Safety Institute, and U.S. National Aerobatic Champion Patty Wagstaff.) Veterans’ groups from the North Central Florida region have been invited to participate.

 Static Display:

All branches of the military have been invited to fly in and participate in the event’s aircraft static displays. We also expect aircraft manufacturers, privately owned aircraft and law enforcement aircraft to be on display. In addition, the Swamp Launch Rocket Team plans to display rocketry at the event.

 Best Aircraft Contest and People’s Choice Awards

A “Best Civilian Aircraft” and “People’s Choice: Best Aircraft” contest will be held, allowing event attendees to vote for their favorite aircraft at the Gator Fly-In. The two winners will be announced and presented with awards at 2:00 p.m.

 Live Music, Classic Cars, Kids’ Activities and All-Day Food Trucks

Activities include touring static aircraft and car displays by ALR Imports and Gainesville Street Rods, military trucks, a kid’s corner with face painting, toy airplanes and coloring, arts and crafts vendors, and food trucks. Live Music by The Treetop Flyers will take place throughout the event. In addition to the “Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast” from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., food trucks and a variety of food vendors will operate throughout the event.

 Aircraft Rides for purchase – Commemorative Air Force - Tampa Wing, Robinson 44 Helicopter, Bell 47-G and Cessna 172; “Swamp Tours”

For a fee, attendees can purchase rides in a variety of aircraft. Commemorative Air Force, Airbase Tampa will provide rides in several different aircraft, with specific information on how to sign up to be posted closer to the event. 

Walk-up tickets can also be purchased at the event. In addition, UAC is offering “Swamp Tours” lasting about 15 minutes, in which passengers can fly over the UF Football Stadium in a Cessna 172 ($50) or a Bell 47-G or Robinson R-44 helicopter ($50).

A wide variety of general aviation, corporate, aerobatic, glider and homebuilt aircraft are expected at the Gator Fly-In.

All branches of the military have been invited to fly in and participate in the event’s static display. As of this news release, possible military aircraft include MH-60 Blackhawk, Boeing P-8 Poseidon, Lockheed P-3 Orion, North American T-6 Texan, Lockheed 26-B and T-34B Mentor, as well as Shandscair Helicopter and Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Helicopter, and Life South Bloodplane aircraft. Confirmed military aircraft will be updated as they are scheduled. We also expect aircraft manufacturers, privately owned aircraft and law enforcement aircraft to be on display. All aircraft and pilots are subject to change due to weather, mechanicals and availability.

 A schedule for the day follows:

1. 7 a.m. Vendors arrive for set up
2. Pre-Event: 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Third Annual Col. Joe “Pamcake” Breakfast
3. 9 a.m. – aircraft arrive and park; all aircraft parked by 9:30 a.m.
4. 10 a.m. – Public Arrive; helicopter and airplane rides begin
5. 11 a.m. Opening Ceremony
6. 11:15 a.m. Flown West Ceremony
7. 11:20 p.m. Speakers begin
8. 12 noon Live Music, food trucks
9. 2:00 p.m. People’s choice and Best of Show Airplane Contest Announced
10. 3 p.m. Final thank you and prep for departures

Please tell your flying friends and anyone who enjoys aviation. For more information on the Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day, please contact  paml@universityaircenter.com or phone (352) 416-0787, visit the Gator Fly-In Facebook page  or visit https://www.flygainesville.com.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ A 75-year-old High Springs resident has been sentenced to two years in state prison, followed by five years of probation, after pleading nolo contendere to shooting at a man who was attempting to repossess his daughter’s car.

Winzoir Van Durr entered the plea on June 10, 2024, to charges of shooting into a vehicle and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The charges carried a potential maximum sentence of 20 years, but on Nov. 25, 2024, Judge David Kreider accepted his open plea and imposed a reduced sentence.

The case stems from an incident on Feb. 14, 2023, when an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a call about shots fired in the 14700 block of Northwest 270^th Avenue in High Springs.

According to reports, the victim—an automobile recovery agent—had gone to the residence to repossess a car. The victim told deputies that he had spoken to Durr at the front door, where Durr inquired about ways to prevent the repossession. After their conversation, Durr went back inside to retrieve what he claimed was paperwork.

As the recovery agent began to back up his vehicle to leave, he suddenly heard a "pop" and saw Durr standing near the front door, pointing a firearm at him. The agent reported hearing five more gunshots as he sped away in fear for his life.

When questioned by deputies post-Miranda, Durr admitted that he knew his daughter was behind on her car payments and acknowledged that he retrieved his gun from his office when he saw the agent taking the vehicle.

Durr initially claimed he fired a “warning shot,” but later admitted he fired three more rounds at the tires to try to stop the agent from leaving.

After spending two days in jail, Durr was released on bail and remained free until sentencing.

Durr’s case moved through the court system over the following year. On June 10, 2024, he entered a nolo contendere plea, meaning he neither admitted nor denied guilt but accepted the legal consequences of the charges.

On Nov. 25, 2024, Judge David Kreider imposed two concurrent two-year prison sentences, meaning Durr will serve both sentences simultaneously before beginning his five-year probation period.

Durr’s legal troubles also had political repercussions. Shortly after the shooting incident, he was appointed to the Alachua County Historical Commission at a Feb. 28, 2023, County Commission meeting. However, after a member of the public informed the board about his recent arrest, Commissioner Ken Cornell moved to change his vote. The board subsequently selected a different applicant to fill the position.

On his application, Durr had listed a background in the U.S. Army and previous employment with the Smithsonian Institution in Human Resources.

Durr will serve his prison sentence in a Florida state facility before beginning his five years of supervised probation.

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HIGH SPRINGS – A devoted guardian dog from High Springs has been named the 2025 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year, bringing national recognition to Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses and their unique mission of healing.

Sirius, a 6-year-old Maremma sheepdog, won the prestigious title in a competition hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare. He was honored at the AFBF Convention on Jan. 26, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.

Sirius serves as the protector of Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, a multiple award winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity celebrating 28 years of service based in High Springs that provides comfort and emotional support to people in hospitals, hospice programs, assisted living centers, and to those who have experienced traumatic events. Their therapy horses have visited children’s hospitals, veterans, first responders, and survivors of tragedies across the country.

While the miniature therapy horses are bringing hope and joy to people in need, Sirius ensures their safety back home. The Maremma sheepdog is a guardian breed, known for its natural instinct to protect livestock from predators. His role on the farm is vital, keeping the horses secure from potential threats such as wild animals or intruders.

Jorge and Debbie Garcia-Bengochea, co-founders of Gentle Carousel, describe Sirius as the “hero behind the heroes.”

“Guardian dogs are like having a 24/7 security system on the farm,” Jorge said. “I feel great about the farm being safe and very proud of what Sirius is doing to protect the horses.”

Sirius performs many tasks essential to farm life, including patrolling the property, watching for predators, and ensuring that the therapy horses can rest peacefully without fear of danger. His presence allows the organization to continue its life-changing work without worrying about the safety of their animals.

The Farm Dog of the Year contest, now in its seventh year, highlights the essential role that farm dogs play on farms and ranches across the country. AFBF President Zippy Duvall emphasized the impact of these hardworking canines.

“Farm dogs often play a dual role as both working dogs and companions to farm and ranch families,” Duvall said. “Farming is very rewarding but stressful at times. Farm dogs can help ease the burden. It has been a pleasure partnering with Purina for the seventh annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, providing the public a glimpse of daily life on the farm.”

Sirius was chosen as the winner by a panel of judges specializing in veterinary medicine, pet care, and communications. As part of his award, Sirius received $5,000 in prize money, a trophy plate, a year’s supply of Pro-Plan dog food, and other Purina products.

This recognition not only celebrates Sirius but also brings national attention to Gentle Carousel’s mission. Their therapy horses have brought comfort to thousands of people, including survivors of natural disasters, mass shootings, and other traumatic events. The organization’s work has been featured in news outlets worldwide, and now, with Sirius in the spotlight, their farm's dedication to both therapy and animal welfare is receiving well-deserved recognition.

As Sirius continues his duties protecting the beloved miniature horses, Gentle Carousel will continue its mission of spreading hope, one visit at a time.

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NEWBERRY ‒ The Alachua County Youth Fair & Livestock Show Association has announced the highly anticipated 2025 Alachua County Youth Fair & Livestock Show, a free event celebrating youth involvement in agriculture. The fair will take place from Feb. 27 to March 4, 2025, at the Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center, located at 23100 W. Newberry Road in Newberry.

Designed as an educational platform for young people in Alachua County, the fair provides an opportunity for 4-H and FFA members to showcase their hard work in livestock and non-livestock projects. Participants will display their skills and knowledge in areas such as animal husbandry, horticulture, and agricultural sciences, helping to preserve and promote the county’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions.

Cindy Sanders, director of UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County, emphasized the fair’s importance. “The youth fair benefits agriculture and the local community by providing an educational opportunity for youth to learn about production agriculture.

“Working with livestock and other agriculture events through the youth fair prepares future citizens of Alachua County to be knowledgeable about agriculture production and land use. This benefits Alachua County by allowing citizens to see our 4-H and FFA youth projects.”

The fair will feature a variety of livestock competitions, project exhibitions, and educational presentations. Attendees can expect to see exhibits featuring cattle, swine, goats, poultry, and rabbits, horticulture displays and gardening projects.

Additionally, the event offers interactive experiences for visitors, including youth demonstrations, educational workshops, and a chance to learn more about modern farming practices.

The fair is more than just a competition as families, educators, and business leaders come together to support the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals.

For many youth participants, the fair is the culmination of months of dedication, responsibility, and hands-on learning. These experiences help build essential life skills, including leadership, teamwork, and business management.

Admission to the fair is free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for the entire community. A complete schedule of events is available on the Alachua County Youth Fair & Livestock Show website at https://www.acyfls.com/, where interested attendees can find details on show times, participant registration, and competition guidelines.

Whether you're a longtime supporter of local agriculture or just looking for a fun and educational event, the 2025 Alachua County Youth Fair & Livestock Show promises to be an exciting showcase of young talent and agricultural excellence.

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Ben E. Keith officials and City of Alachua elected officials and staff celebrated the Jan. 29, 2025 groundbreaking of the 707,000 square-foot distribution center. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

Ben E. Keith officials and City of Alachua elected officials and staff celebrated the Jan. 29, 2025 groundbreaking of the 707,000 square-foot distribution center. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA ‒ In a major step forward for economic growth in North Central Florida, Ben E. Keith Foods has broken ground on a state-of-the-art, 707,000-square-foot distribution center in Alachua, Florida. The new facility, which will serve as the company’s Florida Division headquarters, is expected to create over 400 new jobs in the next five years, further strengthening the local economy.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Jan. 29, 2025 was attended by Alachua City Commissioners, company executives, the Alachua Chamber of Commerce, and local leaders, marking the official start of construction on the 148-acre site.

Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper welcomed the company’s expansion, emphasizing its positive impact on the region.

“Alachua is proud to welcome Ben E. Keith Foods’ Florida Division to our area. It is amazing to watch such successful companies choose ‘The Good Life Community’ as their home,” said Coerper. “We are looking forward to the opportunities Ben E. Keith Foods will be providing for our citizens and local businesses.”

Ben E. Keith Foods, the nation’s fifth-largest broad-line food service distributor, has been expanding rapidly across the Southeast, serving customers in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

The company’s President, Mike Sweet, reaffirmed Ben E. Keith’s commitment to Alachua County and the surrounding communities, noting that this expansion will enhance service capabilities while honoring the legacy of Florida Food Service, which the company acquired in 2022.

“We acquired Florida Food Service in 2022 with a commitment to carry on the Islam family legacy, while uncovering new opportunities to expand and serve customers across the region,” said Sweet. “We are deeply committed to Alachua County and the surrounding communities in which we live, work, and serve, and we look forward to many more years of shared success.”

The new facility will replace and expand upon the company’s existing Gainesville operations, where over 230 employees are currently based.

The Alachua distribution center is designed to set new industry standards with advanced technology, increased efficiency, and sustainable operations. The facility will feature 120 tractor-trailers for large-scale distribution, 105 dock doors to streamline 24/7 intake and outtake operations, state-of-the-art logistics systems to improve speed and accuracy in order fulfillment and sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact

With the Florida Division overseeing operations across the state and as far north as Charleston, South Carolina, the new Alachua facility will allow Ben E. Keith Foods to expand its reach and better serve foodservice operators throughout the region.

The arrival of Ben E. Keith Foods in Alachua represents a major economic boost for the city and surrounding areas. In addition to the hundreds of jobs the facility will create, the project is expected to generate millions of dollars in investment and infrastructure improvements.

Local businesses, suppliers, and vendors will also benefit from the increased economic activity, as Ben E. Keith Foods will rely on regional partnerships to support its expanded operations.

Founded in 1906 in Fort Worth, Texas, Ben E. Keith Foods is one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States, with 10 divisions operating in 20 states. The company provides high-quality food products, beverage distribution, and logistics services to restaurants, hotels, healthcare facilities, and other foodservice providers

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WALDO ‒ A 39-year-old Waldo man, Jeffrey Lamar Becker, faces new charges of sexual battery on a child under 12 after a second victim came forward, adding to the allegations against him. Becker was initially arrested on December 19, 2024, and charged with sexual battery on a child over the age of 12. With the second victim’s statements, Becker now faces four additional counts of sexual battery on a victim under 12, all of which are capital felonies, along with one count of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child under 12. All are capital felonies with the addition of one count of lewd/lascivious molestation on a child under 12.

Forensic interviews with both victims reveal that the alleged abuse began when they were young children—well before puberty—and continued for approximately four to six years. The reported incidents stretch over a period of more than 10 years, with the abuse allegedly persisting until December 2024.

The allegations suggest that Becker maintained access to the victims over an extended period, raising concerns about how the abuse went undetected for so long. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed how the victims are connected to Becker, citing privacy concerns, but noted that the abuse reportedly took place in multiple locations over the years.

This is not Becker’s first encounter with the legal system on allegations involving children. In March 2022, he was arrested for child abuse after allegedly choking a child, but the charge was later dropped. It is unclear whether the victim in that case is connected to the current allegations.

On December 27, 2024, Judge David Kreider granted a motion from the State Attorney’s Office to hold Becker without bail pending trial on the first set of charges. Prosecutors have now filed notice that they intend to seek the same no-bail status in the second case involving the additional victim.

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