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ALACHUA COUNTY ‒ On a holiday associated with many as the unofficial start of summer, the auxiliary president of Alachua County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2811 knows differently. Since her son Staff Sgt. John A. Reiners was killed on duty in Afghanistan more than 14 years ago, she has honored his sacrifice each Memorial Day by serving veterans and their families.

VFW2811AuxiliaryPix2And her efforts have helped hundreds. Because Ronna Jackson not only keeps Memorial Day in honor of her son, but each and every day in tribute.

“I’m a mom just trying to keep a promise made to my son — to take care of his troops and his men,” she said of a vow made when the young staff sergeant was sent on his second deployment.

She reminded herself of that promise while at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, during the transfer ceremony of her son’s remains. It was Valentine’s Day, 2010.

“For years, I couldn’t think of Valentine’s Day as I did before,” she said. “It kept reminding me of one of the saddest times in my life.”VFW2811AuxiliaryPix3

On Feb. 13, 2010, Reiners and two other soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division out of Fort Carson, Colorado, were killed after an insurgent on a motorcycle detonated an improvised explosive device near them. Several others were wounded. The action also widowed Reiners’ wife, Casey, and orphaned his son, Lex.

In recognition of his bravery, Reiners was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He had earned a previous Purple Heart while serving in Iraq.

Reiners’ other awards and decorations include three awards of the Army Commendation Medal, two awards of the Army Achievement Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Air Assault Badge and the Army Ranger Tab. His grandfather — Ronna Jackson’s father-in-law Jay Jackson of Haines City, Florida, – earned a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart while serving two tours in Vietnam.

“The military and service were always part of our family,” said Jackson.

As a VFW post auxiliary president, Jackson continues this tradition. Around the combat veterans in VFW Post 2811, she experiences the camaraderie shared by those who’ve fought to help preserve the freedom of others.

Jackson’s responsibilities as post auxiliary president include organizing and managing dozens of fundraisers, dinners, breakfasts and outreach activities. By her own admission, she devotes approximately 20 hours each week above her full-time job.

This past month, she helped with the Young Marines recruit graduation ceremony, a cookout for veterans living at Gainesville’s Sunshine Inn, a post steak night, several canteen dinners, a post clean-up, an outreach with Grow Gainesville, and the Florida4Warriors, Inc. Nick Tilliman Silkies Memorial Walk.

She is quick to point out that none of this could be accomplished without her fellow auxiliary members.

“From the first day that I joined, I was welcomed with open arms of love and support from the entire VFW auxiliary and all of Post 2811,” she said. “They were also very supportive of me as a Gold Star parent. Any events or service projects that we do, they are all there to help and support for the good of the cause.”

In addition to her work with the VFW, the auxiliary president has volunteered with several other veterans service organizations, such as the American Legion, the American Gold Star Mothers, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart. She has also organized fundraisers and assembled gift packages for veterans and troops deployed overseas.

Her efforts and that of the entire post, said Jackson, help fulfill the VFW’s motto — ‘to honor the dead by helping the living.’

“I feel that my service to our heroes here in the Gainesville community help keep my son’s legacy alive,” she said. “I would be honored to keep working with our auxiliary to help those veterans in the post and in our community.”

Jackson said that her work with the VFW auxiliary is also helping heal her heart. During a Valentine’s Day outreach event for those living at the VFW Veterans Village in nearby Fort McCoy, she was struck by the happiness she brought to the former soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.

“Many of the residents there haven’t any family,” the auxiliary president said. “But they’ve all served in the military, and that bond they share brings them together. A kind word, a handshake or a small gift goes a long way. For the first time in many years, I was able to enjoy Valentine’s Day again.”

Other Gold Star parents, Jackson said, could also benefit from meeting and working with veterans.

“It helps you take one day at a time, because every day is an emotional roller coaster,” she said. “You will have good days and not so good days. But you can take comfort in knowing that the community is here to support you, and to get you through this difficult time.”

Those interested in VFW Post 2811 and its Auxiliary can call 352-376-7660.

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Editor’s Note: Michael P. Mauer is a life member of VFW Post 2811. He served as an Army photojournalist during Operation Desert Storm, and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal by Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf for his actions during the war. This year, Mauer won the Grand Award for top feature article in the VFW National Publications Contest.

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ALACHUA ‒ A little-known spring located near U.S. Highway 441 and Turkey Creek in the city of Alachua was the center of a presentation May 20 during a joint City of Alachua, Alachua County commission meeting.

Pinkoson Trades Union Picnic PoolSeeking a partnership with the County, City Manager Mike DaRoza said the City embarked on the Pinkoson Spring project after completing the Mill Creek Wetland Park project behind Sonny’s near I-75.

Assistant City Manager Rodolfo Valladares and Economic Development Manager David Wisener presented the joint commissions with the findings of a report by Water & Air Research, Inc. commissioned by the City of Alachua.

Analysts reviewed several metrics in concluding that the site known as Pinkoson Spring is indeed a spring and not just stream from overland flows. The report contains an analysis of water temperature, depth of stream, specific conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH and compares those values to five other Florida spring runs.

Analysts found the Pinkoson Spring measurements to be consistent with ranges of others. Water & Air Research, Inc. also measured several other downstream components of Pinkoson Spring’s water chemistry, including alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, sodium, and sulfates.

While flowing an average of just 140 gallons per minute in recent months, analysts stated that the flow rate would fluctuate seasonally and was similar to those flow rates of Boulware Springs and Glen Springs, in Gainesville. The report states that both Boulware Springs and Glen Springs have experienced reductions in discharge rates.

These discharge rates would classify Pinkoson Spring as a 4th magnitude spring in 2024 and 5th magnitude in Spring 2023,” the report states.

Pinkoson Spring also shares with Boulware Springs and Glen Springs a history of being a swimming area. Pinkoson Spring was not always so obscure.

In the 1920s, it appeared to be a popular picnic location. Historic photographs dated for Sept. 5, 1927, Labor Day, show hundreds of people gathered around a large swimming area for a “Trades-Union Picnic.”

By the 1940s, the name of the site had been changed to Milwaukee Springs and was marketed as a “colored only” swimming area. According to Wisner, who is also a local history buff, in the 1940s, it had been hoped that the site would garner attention and be a rest and relaxation destination for African-American soldiers stationed at Camp Blanding. That endeavor did not seem to have gained momentum, although at least one picture shows what appears to be a building with a ticket booth and possibly a restaurant. Historic newspaper advertisements also refer to a restaurant at the site and at times, called it “Mineral Springs Park,” and featured swimming, dancing, and roller skating.

Historical knowledge of the spring together with the few photographs known to exist depict a large pool with concrete fortified walls creating a substantial swimming area, which was built by Charles Pinkoson, Sr. Feirmon E. Welch, now deceased, said in an oral history interview in 1999 that Pinkoson Spring was popular and there was even a bus running from High Springs through Alachua to take people to the park.

Wisener said it was not known when the site ceased operations, but he speculated that a redesign of U.S. Highway 441 might have been the cause of the spring’s decline. Wisener based this on aerial photographs between 1949 and 1955, which depict a new layout for the highway, bringing it significantly closer to the spring. Wisner also alluded to the site’s archaeological significance, referencing 1962 and 1977 limited surveys in which the site was recorded as a prehistoric one where a projectile point and a projectile point base had been recovered.

Valladares said the City hopes to establish partnerships with Alachua County, Suwannee River Water Management District, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Among the City’s objectives are to restore and protect habitat, community engagement and education, and water quality monitoring and management, among others.

Valladares envisions tying the Pinkoson Spring site to the Mill Creek Sink site for an educational demonstration of aquifer outflow and inflow.

Commissioners from both boards received the presentation with great anticipation, with several commissioners expressing excitement about this largely unknown site. City of Alachua Commissioner Shirley Green Brown described the news as “extraordinary,” adding, “It is an incredible opportunity for the City of Alachua and the County.”

Commissioners expressed their unanimous support for moving forward in partnership to explore possibilities for the site.

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NEWBERRY ‒ Residents and visitors gathered for the highly anticipated Newberry Watermelon Festival on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at Country Way Town Square, just south of Newberry High School. The 79th edition of this cherished tradition brought together young and old for a day filled with community spirit, and, of course, plenty of juicy, red watermelon.Newberry Watermelon Festival Parade NHS cheerleaders2

The annual festival brought out crowds who enjoyed picture perfect weather, dozens of vendors, refreshing watermelon, games and activities, and entertainment. Highlights included the traditional festival parade, seed spitting contest, hog calling contest and of course, no one could resist the allure of free watermelon, which was available in abundance throughout the day.

Festivities kicked off with the sounds of marching bands echoing through the air as the colorful festival parade made its way through downtown Newberry. Spectators lined the sidewalks, cheering on gayly decorated floats, shiny cars, and a variety of contestants vying for Watermelon Queen titles.

One of the festival's most anticipated events, the Watermelon Queen Pageant, saw a surge of excitement this year as it was held on the same day as the festival. Contestants showcased their poise and charm, with spectators enthusiastically supporting their favorites, adding anticipation and excitement to the day's events.

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GAINESVILLE ‒ Just after noon on May 15, 2024, units from Alachua County Fire Rescue and Gainesville Fire Rescue responded to a motor-vehicle accident at the intersection of Southeast 39th Terrace and Southeast Hawthorne Road.

Units arrived to find a single-vehicle that struck a tree in the median. Units on scene quickly extricated an entrapped individual with the Jaws of Life. Two individuals were transported to Shands. The accident is currently under investigation.

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HAWTHORNE ‒ On Saturday, May 11, at approximately 11:20 p.m., a potentially life-threatening situation unfolded in Hawthorne, as a man was arrested for reportedly threatening a woman's life with a knife. The incident, which occurred in the front yard of a residence, led to the arrest of Jimmy Lee Floyd, Jr.

Jimmy Lee FloydAccording to reports from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call regarding a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, deputies found Floyd and the woman engaged in a heated argument. The deputy was able to separate the parties and detained Floyd.

Floyd reportedly said he had been at a tattoo party earlier in the day, and the tattoo artist and another man jumped him in the front yard and stole $40 from him. He said he left but came back later to confront the tattoo artist. Floyd further said he didn’t come back with a knife but wanted to fight the tattoo artist. He reportedly admitted that he said “he would kill the tattoo artist, but said he said it out of emotion.”

The victim said that Floyd and the tattoo artist had gotten into a fight earlier in the day, and Floyd left but came back five or six hours later armed with a knife. She said Floyd tried to enter the home, but she said she would not allow it. She said Floyd got in the victim’s face and started cursing and threatening her.

As law enforcement walked up, Floyd threw the knife, which was picked up by the witness and placed on a table outside the front door. The victim wanted to pursue charges due to being threatened with the knife and being fearful that the defendant would carry out the act. The victim started to write a sworn complained but stated that she would fill the sworn complaint out a later time.

A search incident to arrest reportedly produced a small baggie of a substance that tested positive for Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV).

Floyd has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of synthetic narcotics with intent to sell.

Floyd has seven felony convictions, four of which were violent, and four misdemeanor convictions, one of which was violent. He has served three state prison sentences, with his most recent release in 2022.

Bail was set at $25,000 by Judge Kristine Van Vorst.

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ALACHUA ‒ Spring Season has officially signed off. Staff at the City of Alachua’s Recreation & Culture Department appreciates all the teams, coaches, volunteers and participants for another successful Season.

399 Recreation & Sports hosted the Alachua County Task Force on Recreation (A.C.T.F.O.R.) volleyball tournament at Legacy’s Multipurpose Building this past week. Teams from Alachua, High Springs, Newberry and Chiefland all participated.

Santa Fe Soccer Alliance, among many other teams throughout Alachua & Levy County – roughly 80 teams combined, traveled to Williston to participate in the Annual Spring End of the Season Soccer Tournament this past weekend. Thank you to the City of Williston’s Youth Athletic Association for providing amazing hospitality and a wonderful tournament.

The Alachua Raiders Football & Cheer threw a Hail Mary this past Spring Season. For the first time in over a decade the City of Alachua and High Springs residents had the opportunity to participate in Youth Flag Football. The result ended in a touchdown for the entire community!

Santa Fe Babe Ruth Baseball & Softball are in preparation for their All-Star Summer Classic. The City of Alachua will host Baseball Districts at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex and Preacher Copland Park Progress Field from May 30 thru June 2.

This past Mother’s Day weekend the City of Alachua hosted Legacy Melodies at Legacy’s Amphitheater. The group/band “Smooth Operatives” put on a performance of a lifetime. Refreshments and food were provided by Pizza in the Neighborhood. And a big shout out to business owners Leon Barrows of Music Junction for engineering the event and Mellissa Hough of Magnolia Lane Photography for snapping amazing photos throughout the entire concert.

Coming soon – 399Sports and Santa Fe High School Varsity Head Coach Glen Banks presents Summer 2024 Youth Basketball with former Santa Fe Basketball standouts. Also, Trell Saucy Elite Basketball Camp will be sponsored by 399 Sports this coming June 22 at Legacy’s Multipurpose Building. The camp will feature college athlete and two-time Gainesville Sun Player of the Year, Dontrelle “Trelle Saucy” Jenkins.

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GAINESVILLE ‒ Although plenty of Florida’s craft brewers advertise their libations as brewed with state-grown ingredients, a vital ingredient – hops – is not readily available within the Sunshine State. A University of Florida study currently underway, however, may help pave the way for a robust crop of Florida-grown hops.

Beer HopsAromaTesting0006Researchers with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) believe they have identified a method for making hop-growing viable despite Florida’s incompatible climate: greenhouses.

“This has never been done in Florida,” said Katherine Thompson-Witrick, an assistant professor in the UF/IFAS food science and human nutrition department and the leader of the study.

In 2021, the Florida craft brewing industry generated $4.1 billion for the state, the fourth-largest amount in the country, according to the Brewers Association, a Colorado-based organization that monitors the industry.

Since January 2023, when the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services awarded Thompson-Witrick and her team a grant, they have harvested two crops of hops from a greenhouse at the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. In June, they hope to harvest again. Their objective is to develop cultivation practices that maximize aromatic and flavor characteristics comparable to those associated with traditional craft beer-brewing regions like Yakima Valley in Washington.

Thompson-Witrick’s team planted 20, 2-inch-tall seedlings of Cascade and Chinook varieties in April 2023. By July 2023, the plants had reached 20 feet tall, and the vines had to be manually separated to prevent them from becoming tangled.

“We saw a substantial amount of growth in the first nine months of this project, which is really outstanding and amazing for us,” Thompson-Witrick said.

The key was supplemental lighting installed within the greenhouse. Hops grow best when afforded at least 16 hours of sunlight, which is available at latitudes of 35 degrees and above; Florida’s uppermost latitude reaches just 31 degrees. The UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm has conducted breeding studies to develop Florida-compatible hops capable of adapting to the state’s shorter days.

Based on Thompson-Witrick’s preliminary research, the growth and flowering rates of the Apopka plants suggest her method could obtain the same yield of hops – per plant – as Yakima Valley.

But is the product as appealing to the senses?

Thompson-Witrick uses a gas chromatography mass spectrometer to detect the chemical compounds contained within the hops, the alpha and beta assets that quantify how bitter a beer brewed from them would be. For a more subjective analysis, she recruited human volunteers.

Throughout UF’s spring semester, 14 students met regularly to pry open the lids of condiment containers and carefully stick their noses inside.

The contents, resembling shredded alfalfa, were heady, but layered beneath the strong earthy odor were hints of citrus, spice and floral notes. Students took deep sniffs and recorded the strength of the various scents they detected. They smelled both the Apopka hops as well as commercial ones, but they did not know which hops were which.

The repeated sensory trainings will eventually lead to official blind testing and comparison between commercial varieties and Thompson-Witrick’s product.

“We want to disseminate our findings to growers to help with diversifying the state’s agricultural crops and to provide information that would be critical to further cultivating hops,” she said.

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TALLAHASSEE - Today, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner issued the following statement regarding an early morning crash in Marion County between an International Bus transporting 53 people and a Ford Ranger truck:

The Florida Highway Patrol is currently investigating a traffic crash which occurred at approximately 6:35 am, on State Road 40, approximately 500 feet west of SW 148 Court. The collision involved a 2010 International Bus, transporting approximately 53 employees of a farming company, and a 2001 Ford Ranger private truck.

Initial investigation reveals that the two vehicles made contact in a sideswipe type collision. Post collision, the bus traveled off the roadway, through a fence, and then overturned. Currently, eight people have been confirmed deceased and approximately 40 people have been transported to local medical facilities.

At 1:47 PM today, State Troopers assigned to the FHP Northern Region Specialized Investigations and Reconstruction Team (SIRT) arrested Bryan Maclean Howard, the driver of the private Ford Ranger truck, on the following criminal charges – Eight (8) counts of Driving Under the Influence – Manslaughter.    

Identities of the deceased will be released pending next of kin notification. Our sympathies and prayers are with the families of the deceased. Consistent with our duties, the Florida Highway Patrol will conduct both a thorough and exhaustive traffic crash and criminal investigation.

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TALLAHASSEE, FL - Looking for a way to show your support of Florida panther conservation? Consider getting the newly designed Protect the Panther license plate whether you are renewing your Florida plates or licensing your car in the state for the first time.

Staff with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) worked with photographer Carlton Ward and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida to design the new plate. The latest design features a stunning photograph taken by Carlton in 2018 depicting a well-known panther — the first female documented north of the Caloosahatchee River since 1973 and also the first female documented to have had kittens north of the river in over 40 years. The Caloosahatchee River has long appeared to be an obstacle to the natural expansion of the population, including the northward movement of female panthers.

The new license plate can be purchased at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or by checking with your local tax collector office for availability. When renewing vehicles, Florida motorists can exchange their old plates for the new Protect the Panther plate by going in person to your local tax collector office or the FLHSMV. At this time, the new plates are not available through online renewals but can be purchased in person.

Fees from the Protect the Panther license plate go directly into the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund, which is a critical source of funding for the state’s panther-related research, monitoring and conservation efforts. The long-term public support of this fund has had a direct positive impact on the FWC’s management and research efforts, resulting in timely, science-based information needed to guide current and future conservation actions for Florida panthers. The FWC and conservation partners have made significant progress with panther recovery and the FWC’s panther program relies upon sales of the license plate to continue these conservation efforts.

Florida panthers are native to the state, with the majority of panthers found south of Lake Okeechobee. Florida panthers are listed as an Endangered species under the federal Endangered Species Act. There are approximately 120-230 adult panthers in the population.

Purchasing a Protect the Panther license plate isn’t the only way you can help panthers. Drivers can also help by following all posted speed limits, particularly in panther zones, which are in place in several counties across south Florida to coincide with areas where panthers are known to cross. Panther speed zones help protect both Florida panthers and motorists from vehicle collisions and potential injury. You can also donate directly to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s Florida Panther Fund to support the rehabilitation and release of injured panthers and help FWC staff and partners locate and protect panthers, including their dens and kittens.

To learn more about Florida panthers and the FWC’s work to conserve the species, visit MyFWC.com/Panther.

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~Suspect crashed ambulance and fled on foot after his photo was taken by in car camera ~

TAMPA, Fla.- Early this morning at approximately 2:00 a.m., a supervisor with American Medical Rescue (AMR), a private ambulance service, observed a vehicle that appeared to be involved in a crash located on the Interstate 75 (I-75) Southbound exit ramp to Interstate 4 (I-4) Westbound in Hillsborough County.

The supervisor, who was driving a Chevy Tahoe marked as a rescue vehicle, decided to check the welfare of the individual involved.

Rolling down his window, he asked if everything was ok. The driver of the crashed vehicle approached the ambulance and began throwing himself at the window, gaining access to the ambulance. Once inside, the subject started fighting with the ambulance driver and took control of the vehicle. The ambulance driver, fearing for his life, exited the vehicle and called 9-1-1.

FHP 3 22 2024 Ambulance Carjack SuspectWhile attempting to flee in the stolen ambulance, the suspect collided with a Nissan Altima on the ramp for Interstate 75 Southbound to Interstate 4 Westbound. As Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) responded, the suspect fled in the marked ambulance. The HCSO pursued the ambulance but lost contact with it and terminated the pursuit.

The ambulance's in-car camera system reported a vehicle crash at 2:09 a.m. and took a photo of the suspect inside the vehicle. The suspect fled the scene of the crash, and the ambulance was later recovered. 

The suspect is described as a white male who appeared to be under the influence of unknown drugs. To view video of the incident click here.

 

 Anyone with information regarding this incident or the identity of the carjacking suspect is asked to call *FHP (*347) or Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a milestone in Florida’s continuing economic success: Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has been lower than the national rate for 40 consecutive months. The national unemployment rate rose to 3.9 percent for February 2024; Florida’s rate did not rise and outperforms the national rate by 0.8 percentage point. And while Florida’s private sector job growth rate increased by 2.3 percent (+194,200 jobs) over the year in February 2024, the national rate grew by only 1.6 percent over the same period.
  
“Florida continues to outperform the nation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We have proven that bold, conservative leadership across the board produces booming economic results—more jobs, lower taxes, less regulation, and fiscal security.”

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to provide an economy for our residents that is primed for opportunity and secure for future growth,” said J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce. “Florida’s strong talent pipeline and skilled workforce are the building blocks of Florida’s economic growth and stability. February’s economic data is more absolute evidence that Florida is on the right path.”

Florida’s economic data continues to indicate economic strength and confidence among Florida’s workforce as the state’s labor force grew by 2.0 percent (+217,000) over the year in February 2024, which is faster than the comparable national rate of 0.7 percent.

The education and health services sector gained the most jobs among all major industries, adding 57,500 jobs over the year. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector performed second best, adding 48,300 jobs. And importantly, leisure and hospitality (tourism) added 35,000 jobs.

Data in the month of February continues to indicate there are many job opportunities available for every Floridian who wants to work, with more than 443,000 jobs posted online. Floridians in search of work and new job opportunities can utilize the CareerSource Florida network for help. Floridians can find guidance on how to register with Employ Florida and search listings of available local job openings. Career seekers can also improve their employability by enhancing resume writing and interviewing skills, establishing career goals, and pursuing customized career training. These services are provided at no cost to job seekers by the State of Florida. 

To view the February 2024 jobs reports by region, please see below: 
•    Fort Lauderdale
•    Jacksonville
•    Miami
•    Orlando
•    Pensacola
•    Southwest Florida
•    Tampa
•    West Palm Beach

To view the February 2024 employment data, visit: https://www.floridajobs.org/workforce-statistics/workforce-statistics-data-releases/monthly-data-releases. 
  
Visit Florida Insight for more information on labor market and economic data. Additionally, the Department has provided a video to assist users in explaining the data provided through Florida Insight. 

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TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing the reminder that sea turtles are starting to nest on our beaches. Residents and visitors can play a big part in helping to protect vulnerable nesting sea turtles this spring and summer while visiting Florida’s coastal habitats.

Because our state’s shorelines provide important nesting habitat for several species of threatened and endangered sea turtles, beachgoers can have a significant impact on their nesting success. To help nesting sea turtles, people can take easy steps to protect them, including giving them space, minimizing disturbances and keeping beaches clean and dark.

Clear the way at the end of the day: Female sea turtles expend large amounts of energy crawling out of the surf and far enough up the sand in order to dig and lay nests in spots that are less vulnerable to the tides. Obstacles on the beach can entrap and prevent them from nesting as they crawl across the sand to lay their eggs. Trash, holes in the sand and other obstacles can also prevent sea turtle hatchlings from reaching the water once they emerge from their nests. Food scraps attract predators, such as raccoons and crows, that prey on sea turtle hatchlings. Litter on beaches can entangle sea turtles, birds and other wildlife. What can you do to help?  Properly stash or recycle all trash, fill in human-made holes in the sand, and remove all beach toys, gear and furniture from the sand before sunset. Fishing line can be deadly to sea turtles, waterbirds and other wildlife, so be sure to dispose of it properly. To find a monofilament recycling station near you, visit mrrp.myfwc.com.

Lights out: Any lighting can misdirect and disturb nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean and toward potential danger. To prevent this, beachgoers should use natural starlight to see when on the beach at night and avoid using flashlights or cellphones. Anyone living along or visiting Florida beaches can do their part by putting porch, parking or deck lights out and closing curtains after dark to avoid disorienting nesting and hatchling sea turtles on the beach. If lighting could still be visible from the beach, be sure it is long, low and shielded. 

Admire from afar: While it can be exciting to witness sea turtles on the beach, getting too close (50 feet or less) to nesting sea turtles can cause them to leave the beach before they complete the nesting process. If an animal changes their behavior, you’re likely too close. Remember – it is illegal to harm or disturb nesting sea turtles, their nests and eggs, or to pick up hatchlings.  

Sea turtles typically return to nest in March along Florida’s southeast Atlantic coast from Brevard County south to Broward County, while nesting begins on Gulf Coast or north Florida beaches in April or May.

For more information about nesting sea turtles and how you can help, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle or see the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure. Other ways to help sea turtles include reporting those that are sick, injured, entangled or dead to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

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Medication reconciliation is a term used in healthcare that describes the process of comparing a patient’s medication orders in a healthcare institution (hospital or nursing home) to what the patient has been prescribed and taking at home.

The purpose of this short column is to point out that many times patients are admitted to an institution, sometimes in an emergency, and it is difficult to determine what medications have been taken at home. Often when asked about their medicWilliam-Garst-HS.jpgations the response is “I take a blood pressure drug, a blood thinner, something for cholesterol, and something occasionally for arthritis pain.”

Just those four categories of medications probably describe several dozen, if not more, potential medications. What is needed is an exact listing of the medications with their dose (strength), how often they are taken, and when they are taken.

 

The perfect list of medications would be an official one from the patient’s primary care physician or provider. However, often what is presented at the institution is a handwritten list with the barest of information.

I am suggesting in this short column that a person, each time they see their primary care physician, request a current list of their medications with doses and instructions, to be printed for them or even emailed to them for reference in case of an emergency.

This list would also be helpful to take to their pharmacist for comparison to what the pharmacy has on file in their computer profile. In this way, the pharmacist could request a prescription to be there at the pharmacy before it is needed, if there have been changes to the drug, dose, or how often the medication is taken. In addition, the pharmacist may want to notify the primary care physician of other medications that have been prescribed that are not on the primary care physician's record.

This brings up another important aspect: sometimes other physicians (specialists or emergency department physicians) have prescribed medication for a patient and the primary care physician is unaware and would need to know this addition, even if temporary, for a complete listing of medications.

It is vital that medication regimens be accurate as patients transition between healthcare environments as a matter of safety and proper medication administration. Keep the list handy or scan it into your computer for ready reference.

I hope this column was informative; prosper and be in health.

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William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who lives in Alachua, Florida. He is semi-retired and works part time at Lake Butler Hospital in Lake Butler, Florida. William received his pharmacy degree at Auburn University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Colorado University. The Pharmacy Newsletter is a blog where you can find other informative columns. He may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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The Editorial Board of Alachua County Today has rarely taken to endorsing candidates in local political races; however, there are times when it becomes necessary. Such is the case in the City of High Springs commission races scheduled for Nov. 7, 2023. Up for consideration are four candidates in two races. In Seat 1, electors in High Springs will have the opportunity to select between the incumbent, Ross Ambrose, and Andrew Miller. In Seat 2, voters will consider incumbent, Gloria James, and Steven Tapanes.

For many years, the City of High Springs experienced considerable political tumult, so much so that it created harsh divisions within the community. Over the last few election cycles, voters have managed to regain control of their commission, placing on the dais community-minded, non-partisan commissioners who have been focused on moving High Springs forward, into a more fiscally sound and responsible direction.

Tax increases are rarely, if ever, welcomed by the taxpayers, but tax increases are sometimes necessary. The City of High Springs, like every other small town, is feeling the financial pinch of inflation. We all feel the financial pinch of inflation. Without an increase in taxes this year, the City of High Springs would be setting itself up for financial straits in the years to come. Simply put, the City has to pay someone to fix water pipes, respond to emergencies, put out fires, and maintain the City’s infrastructure. That is to say nothing of the business of running the City. There is no doubt that there are some, including former commissioners, who want to sow divisions, but these efforts are not productive for the citizens.

Some candidates, and one commissioner, who is not up for election this cycle, have criticized the incumbent commissioners for approval of the FY 2023-24 budget, which did include an increase in the millage rate. It’s easy for one commissioner to sit by and criticize, without solution, a budget which she knows will pass while she avoids the political hit by voting against it.

To be sure, there is always work to be done on tightening the belt on government, reducing waste, and finding new and innovative ways to deliver governance and the services the citizens have come to appreciate and expect. The City of High Springs does not exist in a vacuum however, and for that reason, there are simply some economic conditions the City cannot avoid.

It is because of the work done by commissioners like Ross Ambrose and Gloria James that the City has reached a state of stability, a posture that is allowing the City to get its legs underneath it. After years of political disarray and infighting, the City is finally beginning to make headway on projects that hold great promise for the City of High Springs and its residents.

This is not the time to pull the rug out from underneath the commission and management. Instead, voters should reelect Gloria James and Ross Ambrose while encouraging them to seek common ground on budget issues, attempt to increase efficiency, and hold themselves and management accountable.

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I am writing in support of Ross Ambrose for High Springs City Commission. First let me say that I have nothing negative to say about his opponent, and I’m grateful that we have wonderful people willing to serve our great little town. That said, I have plenty of positive reasons to support Ross in this election.

I have known Ross for at 15 years as a neighbor and friend in town. Ross showed his commitment to this town for years by serving on city boards before he ever ran for office. He has always taken anything he does seriously and professionally and that goes for the City Commission as well.

Ross makes it his business to understand every issue and the effects of city, county and state law on the issue, and how everything works together. When he makes a decision one way or the other on anything, I expect that he has researched it thoroughly. I feel like I don’t have to understand everything little thing that comes before the city, because he literally does that hard job for us. He has run a successful business for 10 years and he understands fiscal responsibility as well as investment and looking at the big picture to prepare us for the future. 

Perhaps the biggest reason I support Mr. Ambrose is that he is truthful, even when the truth is not what I want to hear. My example is that I emailed him about the proposed Bridlewood subdivision, coming out strongly against it. Like many in High Springs, I love our small town, and the surrounding open spaces. I don’t want the town to be swamped with traffic and see the beauty around us turn into South Florida-style crowding and sprawl. I want to protect the springs at all costs. I would be very happy to see zero new large-scale subdivisions here.

Ross took the time to email me back and carefully explain how the property that was Tillman Acres/proposed Bridlewood was zoned for crazy-dense zoning many years ago, and that the City can’t undo that and could be subject to a lawsuit if we tried. He was hoping to get the most palatable deal out of a bad situation.

He also told me about several other subdivisions: one along U.S.441, one adjacent to Bailey Estates, where the City had refused to allow an up-zoning to higher density for all the same reasons I state above.

I believe Mr. Ambrose wants to preserve the unique character of High Springs, but is also realistic in knowing you have to play the hand you were dealt.

I went to a candidate forum and one of the other candidates said High Springs needs better infrastructure before any new development is allowed. That sounds great but isn’t always possible, for reasons like the one above and the need to find funding for said infrastructure. I know that Ross Ambrose leaves no stone unturned in looking for funding sources aside from local tax revenue. The effort he puts into this job is Herculean.

Frankly I think we are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated, knowledgeable and hard-working commissioner. 

Stacey Breheny

High Springs, Florida

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An election will be held in High Springs on Nov. 7. There are two seats up for election. Since this is an odd-numbered year, the turnout will be poor. Every registered voter in the city needs to read up on the candidates; do the research to see what each is for, and vote.

Things have been running smoothly in the city for some time. Voting for someone merely because they are new is not a good idea.

Ross Ambrose and Gloria James do their homework, are knowledgeable and make decisions for all of High Springs. They are not driven by politics but by what they think is best for the city. For the good of the city, let’s keep them doing what they’ve done so well. Just remember that you need to vote.

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, Florida

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This letter is to express my support for Steve Tapanes and Andrew Miller for City of High Springs Commissioner.

I have watched several of the commissioner’s meetings on line and have noticed on several occasions that although the audience is jammed with people who are concerned about certain issues, that their concerns seldom make a difference in the decisions made because the decisions appear to have been made prior to the meetings.

I would like to see new blood on the board of commissioners as I feel the incumbents get in a rut and although they claim to have the best interests of the citizens in mind some of them don’t seem to be listening. The newer members seem to be the ones listening.

Steve and Andrew both have businesses in High Springs and I feel their freshness would more closely represent the majority of citizens’ current views.

It’s time for a change, time for the younger generation to have a say in what happens for High Springs’ future. Vote Steve Tapanes and Andrew Miller.

Leah Currier

High Springs, Florida

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The High Springs Chamber of Commerce would like to send a special thank you to all our volunteers and local businesses who gave their time, talents, and treasures to bring our community together for the annual Fall Festival.

Please support these businesses and tell them thank you the next time you see them. Decades on Main & Renee;

Oliver & Dahlman; Thompson Flower Shop; The Birds Nest; High Springs Church of God; LifeSpring Church; Plantation Oaks Assisted Living & Memory Care; Dawn Cross, Photography; McDonald's in Alachua; Ronald McDonald House; Hardee's in High Springs; Hillary Cowart the Magic Man; Line Dancing Debbie; Bryan's Ace Hardware in High Springs; Winn-Dixie in High Springs; Fort White Garden & Produce; Jennifer Lee & Caleb Henderson, The Perfect Home; Troop 69, Boy Scouts; Willard's Restaurant & Lounge; BlueStar Grill; Nancy's Bake Shop; Chantels' Cakery; Station Bakery & Café; Tom & Sue Weller, Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe; High Springs Police Department; Aunt Lydia Springs, Cake; Louanne Rigano, Cake; Vella Miller, Ballon; Don Decker, Trains; Museum for being open during the Fall Festival hours

There are so many who came together to make this year's Fall Festival one our community will cherish for years to come.

I love our quaint little town with all its southern charm.

Sharon Decker

High Springs Chamber of Commerce

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded more than $247 million through the Broadband Infrastructure Program, connecting more than 59,000 unserved and underserved businesses, homes, farms and anchor institutions like hospitals and libraries to high-speed Internet. Infrastructure deployment through 63 strategic projects in 43 Florida counties ensures that Florida residents have reliable and efficient access to workforce, education and health monitoring opportunities for generations to come.
 These awards are in addition to more than $226 million in Broadband Opportunity Grant Funding already awarded to 53 counties awards to expand broadband Internet access to unserved areas across the state, connecting more than 250,000 homes and businesses. Additional funding will become available this year through new and existing programs.
 “High-speed broadband Internet is important infrastructure for Florida communities and will generate economic development activity and a talented labor force,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida is proud to make investments in broadband Internet infrastructure that will benefit all Floridians and make long-term impacts in communities across the state.”
 
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is expanding broadband Internet to small and rural areas of the state that will now have new accsess to critical resources,” said Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary J. Alex Kelly. “Broadband Internet infrastructure will change the landscape and quality of life for Florida families and businesses, connecting them to workforce training, jobs, educational resources and telehealth services.”
 The Florida Department of Commerce (FloridaCommerce) is hosting a series of public workshops to hear directly from Floridians about barriers to accessing broadband Internet service in their communities. The workshops will help inform Florida’s plan to access funding for the expansion of broadband Internet service, and the deployment of online devices and digital skills training. Find more information on the public workshops here.
 The following projects will be awarded through the Broadband Infrastructure Program:
  
    • Cities of Newberry and Archer – ($3,393,309.75) to add 69 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 255 unserved locations within Alachua and Levy counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1 gigabyte per second (1GB).
 
    • Cities of Archer, Hawthorne and Micanopy – ($21,290,000) to add 783 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 5,799 unserved locations within Alachua, Marion and Putnam counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ebro, Panama City and Wewahitchka – ($19,594,367.84) to add 1500.28 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,145 unserved locations within Bay, Calhoun, Gulf and Washington counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area East of Crosby Lake and the corridors of N County Roads 225, 229 and 301 and NW County Road 233 – ($740,000) to add 40.12 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 815 unserved locations within Bradford County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Selman, town of Altha, and unincorporated communities of McNeal and Round Lake – ($604,041) to add 16.5 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 99 unserved locations within Calhoun County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • The unincorporated areas of Rotunda and Cleveland and parts of Charlotte County – ($3,085,000) to add 96.49 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 805 unserved locations within Charlotte County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Burnt Store Road corridor and US41/I75 corridors --- ($2,160,000) to add 92.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,268 unserved locations within Charlotte County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Penney Farms, City of Keystone Heights and the unincorporated communities of Virginia Village, Kingsley Lake, and corridors of State Roads 16, 315, and 17 – ($1,590,000) to add 115.71 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,498 unserved locations within Clay County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Penney Farms, City of Keystone Heights and the unincorporated communities of Virginia Village, Kingsley Lake, and corridors of State Roads 16, 315, and 17 – ($825,000) to add 61.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 730 unserved locations within Clay County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Immokalee – ($122,000) to add 61.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 242 unserved locations within Collier County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Columbia County --- ($3,435,521) to add 110 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,572 unserved locations within Columbia, Alachua and Union counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Fort White – ($3,348,337) to add 143 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,702 unserved locations within Columbia, Gilchrist, Suwannee and Alachua counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Fort White, and the unincorporated areas of Five Points and Lake City– ($2,225,000) to add 65.36 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 555 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City – ($2,680,000) to add 86.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 700 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City --- ($2,540,000) to add 77.01 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 631 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas in the Town of Fort White, and in the areas of Five Points and West of Lake City --- ($2,260,000) to add 61.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 386 unserved locations within Columbia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated areas of Arcadia/East and Pine Level – ($2,550,000) to add 82.48 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 634 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Arcadia and Hull – ($3,490,000) to add 98.58 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 689 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated community of Nocatee – ($2,600,000) to add 72.35 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 453 unserved locations within DeSoto County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Area of Gonzalez – ($1,444,738.50) to add 20 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 78 unserved locations within Escambia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bunnell, areas of Bakersburg and Codys Corner, and unincorporated communities of Espanola, Korona, Dupont, Favoretta and Country Acres – ($751,793.25) to add 13.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 79 unserved locations within Flagler County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • City of Apalachicola – ($825,075) to add 10.11 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 373 unserved locations within Franklin County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Havana and Quincy – ($1,826,626) to add 134.46 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,674 unserved locations within Gadsden County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Reston Community – ($172,277.72) to add 6.46 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 152 unserved locations within Gadsden County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Wauchula and unincorporated areas around Wauchula and the areas of Ona and Limestone – ($323,000) to add 44.11 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 278 unserved locations within Hardee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Wauchula and unincorporated areas around Wauchula, town of Zolfo Springs and the area of Gardner – ($1,185,000) to add 163.77 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,007 unserved locations within Hardee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Sebring – ($10,512,009.74) to add 1365.93 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,625 unserved locations within Hendry, Highlands, Glades and Okeechobee counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Unincorporated community of Spring Lake – ($29,078) to add 4.5 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 79 unserved locations within Hernando County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Community of Crystal Lake – ($4,700,358.31) to add 5.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 520 unserved locations within Highlands County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Avon Park and Sebring and the town of Lake Placid – ($2,100,000) to add 95.83 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,118 unserved locations within Highlands County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Fellsmere and Vero Beach and the area of Vero Beach South – ($1,900,000) to add 94.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 661 unserved locations within Indian River County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bonita Springs – ($612,830) to add 6.9 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 328 unserved locations within Lee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 100/100 megabits per second (Mbps).
 
    • City of Fort Myers, the unincorporated areas of Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Alva and Olga – ($2,050,000) to add 68.31 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,196 unserved locations within Lee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Williston, town of Bronson, and areas of East Bronson, Raleigh, East Williston, Williston Highlands and Morriston – ($4,828,110) to add 195 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,444 unserved locations within Levy County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Chiefland – ($3,460,000) to add 204 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,580 unserved locations within Levy County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Marion County – ($4,779,127) to add 88 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 935 unserved locations within Marion and Putnam counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area of Silver Springs Shores and the unincorporated community of Ocklawaha – ($15,841,522) to add 231 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 3,296 unserved locations within Marion and Lake counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated area of Palm City – ($1,360,000) to add 30.74 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 484 unserved locations within Martin County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Miami-Dade County – ($610,000) to add 17.77 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 152 unserved locations within Miami-Dade County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($3,265,000) to add 70.28 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 639 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($1,775,000) to add 39.74 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 259 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($2,326,165.50) to add 48.21 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 314 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Ingle and Gross, and unincorporated communities of Dyal, Lessie, Evergreen, Bryceville, and Becker, and Portions of SR 121, and the US 301 corridor – ($1,635,000) to add 41.92 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 388 unserved locations within Nassau County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Laurel Hill – ($1,035,920) to add 30 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 161 unserved locations within Okaloosa and Walton counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Okaloosa County – ($17,780,940.75) to add 242 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,057 unserved locations within Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Basinger and Fort Drum and areas of Palm Village Ranch– ($1,620,000) to add 115.63 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,304 unserved locations within Okeechobee County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Unincorporated Community of Loxahatchee – ($2,532,000) to add 39.03 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 357 unserved locations within Palm Beach County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Village of Wellington – ($1,340,000) to add 19.55 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 165 unserved locations within Palm Beach County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Putnam County – ($1,585,150) to add 65 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 769 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown --- ($3,060,074.25) to add 68 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 441 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown – ($1,725,000) to add 44.32 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 512 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Bostwick and Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown– ($1,375,000) to add 34.55 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 371 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • City of Bardin, the towns of Edgar and Florahome, and the communities of Whiteville and Georgetown – ($1,500,000) to add 75.73 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,421 unserved locations within Putnam County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Jay and unincorporated areas of Allentown, Dixonville, Munson, Pine Level, Springhill, Bagdad and Whitfield, and unincorporated communities of Dickerson, Avalon, Mulat, East Milton, Roeville and Harold – ($24,752,619.75) to add 248 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 2,343 unserved locations within Santa Rosa County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Town of Jay and unincorporated areas of Allentown, Dixonville, Munson, Pine Level, Springhill and Whitfield – ($9,648,409.48) to add 756.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 217 unserved locations within Santa Rosa County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Unincorporated town of Nokomis and unincorporated area of Englewood – ($743,022) to add 9.86 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 90 unserved locations within Sarasota County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Myakka State Park – ($705,088.35) to add 7.75 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 23 unserved locations within Sarasota County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Palm Coast and St. Augustine and the town of Hastings – ($1,403,283.75) to add 25.8 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 141 unserved locations within St. Johns and Flagler counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie --- ($2,028,750) to add 41.59 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 396 unserved locations within St. Lucie County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast Airpark --- ($1,386,614.25) to add 21.09 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 183 unserved locations within St. Lucie County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Coleman, Bushnell, Center Hill, Webster, Wildwood, the unincorporated communities of Adamsville, Sumterville, Croom, Nobleton, the village of Whitney, the areas of Village of Collier, Lake Panasoffkee and the town of Mabel – ($3,491,131) to add 115.1 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 831 unserved locations within Sumter County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
    • Cities of Live Oak, Fort Union, Lake City, Greenfield, Jasper, Buckville and Hatchbend, the towns of Branford, Jennings, Mayo, White Springs, and the unincorporated communities of Dowling Park, O’Brien, McAlpin, Rixford, and Day– ($22,615,314.97) to add 2072.42 miles of fiber optic cable to provide 1,640 unserved locations within Suwannee, Hamilton, Columbia and Lafayette counties with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.
 
  • Cities of Deltona and Debary and unincorporated areas, communities and villages of DeLeon Springs, Tomoka Woods, Barberville, Seville, Butler Groves, Samsula-Spruce Creek, Indian Springs, Deltona Lakes, Deltona Commons, Boden, Osteen, Pennichaw and Creighton – ($329,448.75) to add 6.2 miles of cable to provide 31 unserved locations within Volusia County with symmetrical download and upload speeds of 1GB.

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