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Alachua County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2811 Quartermaster Avery Owen, left, serves up a hamburger to 1st Lt. Clint Whaley of the 257th Transportation Battalion, 399th Movement Control Team. Whaley’s unit will soon deploy to help provide logistical support in the Middle East.\ Photo by MICHAEL P. MAUER special to Alachua County Today

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Leaders from Siemens, San Felasco Tech City, the City of Alachua and Chamber of Commerce gathered June 18, 2025, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the grand opening of Siemens' new 30,000-square-foot facility in Alachua / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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Town Leaders and area dignitaries unveiled the Newberry Veterans Memorial honoring veterans who gave all / Photo special to Alachua County Today

Zach Nichols received a standing ovation at the May 22, 2025, High Springs City Commission meeting in recognition of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout /Photo special to Alachua County Today

UF Health President and System CEO Stephen J. Motew, M.D., MHA, FACS, and Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie II, Ph.D., signed an agreement Wednesday to formalize the third-year of a highly successful nurse training partnership. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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The following is a press release submitted by Palms Medical Group. It is presented as received and has not been edited by this publication.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palms Medical Group Celebrates National Health Center Week 2025

High Springs, Fla — Palms Medical Group is proud to celebrate National Health Center Week 2025, taking place August 3–9. This week highlights the essential role Community Health Centers (CHCs) play in improving public health and providing Americans with access to critical healthcare services. CHCs represent the nation’s largest primary care network, serving nearly 34 million patients nationwide.

This year’s NHCW celebration, launched by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), focuses on the theme: “America’s Health Centers Celebrating 60 Years of Improving our Nation’s Health.” CHCs across the country join the celebration through a host of scheduled events that include resource fairs, back-to-school drives, health screenings, and visits to CHCs by local, state, and national leaders.

With a mission to make high-quality, affordable care available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status, CHCs save lives and healthcare costs on the front lines of our nation’s most pressing public health challenges. CHCs serve 10% of the U.S. population, and they are powered by a workforce of more than 326,000 dedicated professionals who reach beyond the walls of the exam room with effective services that not only prevent illness but also address the factors that may cause it.

“We are more than a doctor’s office,” said Anita Rembert, CEO of Palms Medical Group. “We are a lifeline for families in rural communities; a support system for those struggling with mental health or chronic conditions; and a safe, welcoming space for anyone who needs care. It takes every single one of our team members to make this possible.”

More than 1,700 CHCs nationwide are the health care home to:

  • One in 5 uninsured people
  • One in 3 people living in poverty
  • One in 5 rural residents
  • 9.4 million children
  • Over 419,000 veterans

To learn more about the mission and accomplishments of CHCs, visit www.nachc.org. Learn more about NHCW and view a list of events at www.healthcenterweek.org.

About Palms Medical Group
Palms Medical Group exists to enhance the health and wellbeing of our communities. As a not-for-profit health care provider, Palms has been serving North Florida for more than 50 years with quality, affordable primary care and preventative services. With 12 locations across North Florida, same-day scheduling, flexible hours, and bilingual staff, Palms Medical Group gives patients the care they need, when and where they need it.

For more information, visit www.palmsmg.org or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.

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GAINESVILLE – A new state law is prompting Alachua County Public Schools to significantly tighten its guidelines on student use of cell phones and other personal wireless devices for the 2025–26 school year.

House Bill 1105, passed by the Florida Legislature, restricts student access to personal devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, and tablets during the school day.

Under the revised district guidelines, students at all elementary and middle schools, as well as at High Springs Community School, Oak View Middle School, Hawthorne Middle/High School, and A. Quinn Jones School, must keep all personal devices powered off and out of sight from the time they arrive on campus until they leave.

At high schools — except Hawthorne and A. Quinn Jones, which follow the stricter elementary/middle school rules—and at Sidney Lanier Center, students are prohibited from using devices during instructional time unless explicitly permitted by a teacher for educational use.

Students at the middle and high school levels may use devices during extracurricular activities.

The district emphasized that students have access to district-approved instructional technology throughout the school day. In emergency situations or other safety concerns, families are urged to contact their school's front office directly rather than reaching out to students via personal devices.

To notify families of the changes, the district is distributing information via email, phone, and text message. Updates are also posted on the district’s official Facebook page and website. Additional information and updated policies can be found at alachuaschools.net/cellphones, including links to the revised Codes of Student Conduct for both elementary and secondary students.

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Main Street Momentum — Alachua’s historic downtown may soon welcome breweries and wine bars if the City Commission follows through on its plan to ease alcohol sales restrictions near churches. A proposed ordinance could help revitalize the area by allowing more diverse business types / Today Staff Photographer

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ALACHUA – After months of mounting pressure from local business owners and residents, the Alachua City Commission took a significant step Monday toward relaxing its decades-old alcohol sales restriction near churches — a move that could pave the way for breweries, wine bars, and other small establishments to revitalize Main Street’s commercial core.

Commissioner Dayna Williams welcomed the proposed changes saying, “I think that it would benefit not just Main Street, but the [Community Redevelopment Agency area] and our city as a whole.

At the center of the debate is a city ordinance prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages within 450 feet of any religious institution. While the rule includes exceptions for full-service restaurants and temporary special events, it effectively bans new standalone alcohol vendors from opening in much of downtown due to the close proximity of three churches: Living Word Church of Faith, River of Life, and First Baptist Church of Alachua.

Under the city’s current ordinance, a business may sell alcohol even if it is closer than 450 feet to the nearest religious institution, but only if that business derives at least 51% of its sales from food or non-alcoholic beverages.

The issue resurfaced earlier this year after representatives of the Alachua Chamber of Commerce and other economic stakeholders urged commissioners to consider revising the ordinance to allow for new types of businesses in the downtown district.

Local resident Julie Smith summed up the issues as, “I think it's just a matter of freedom of choice and freedom of businesses to be able to operate, for them to be able to have an income.”

“Because of the close proximity of three churches, [the sale of alcohol] is currently restricted … the Commission requested staff return at a future meeting to present possible options,” said Economic Development Manager David Wisener, who presented a report outlining several policy options. “Other cities in Alachua County — including Gainesville, Hawthorne, and Micanopy — have removed these restrictions entirely or set shorter distances.”

Mayor Walter Welch expressed concern that downtown churches had not been contacted, despite Wisener’s insistence that multiple phone calls were made and emails were sent to encourage pastors to attend the July 28 meeting.

The City’s current 450-foot rule is stricter than most in the county. High Springs and Waldo, for example, maintain a 500-foot buffer, while Newberry sets its distance at just 300 feet. Gainesville and several neighboring municipalities impose no such restriction at all.

Wisener explained that the distance is measured from the center of the licensed business’s main entrance to the center of the church’s entrance, along the most direct pedestrian route. That approach has rendered wide swaths of downtown ineligible for new alcohol licenses unless the business qualifies under narrow exceptions.

Commissioners previously directed staff to solicit feedback from the affected churches. According to Wisener, pastors from religious institutions were contacted multiple times over the past two months via email and phone. While staff did not confirm whether any formal objections had been raised, it was noted that none of the churches appeared before the commission to speak Monday.

Commissioners voted unanimously to direct City Manager Rodolfo Valladares to bring back to the commission a proposed ordinance, which would remove any prohibition of alcohol sales within the Community Redevelopment Agency area. The commission also voted to direct the city manager to explore adding a new business category for breweries and wineries, which might also be exempt from the alcohol ordinance.

The new ordinance is expected to come before the commission later this year for public input and a formal vote. In the meantime, current restrictions remain in place.

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ALACHUA – A proposal to investigate the early 2025 resignations of three senior staff members in Alachua’s Planning and Community Development Department failed to advance Monday night, July 28, 2025, after a split vote by the City Commission.

With Vice Mayor Shirley Green Brown absent, Commissioner Jacob Fletcher’s motion to hire an outside law firm to conduct the investigation ended in a 2-2 vote. Commissioners Dayna Williams and Jennifer Ringersen opposed the measure, while Mayor Walter Welch supported it along with Fletcher. The tie vote left the motion without the majority required to pass.

The push for an investigation began earlier this year, following the closely-timed departures of Planning Director Kathy Winburn and two city planners. While initial concerns came from a few individuals citing transparency, the effort soon became closely associated with former City Planner Justin Tabor, who resigned in early 2025 and submitted a critical open letter to the Commission in February.

In his letter, Tabor alleged unethical behavior within the City administration, claimed improper outside influence on development decisions, and pointed directly to then City Manager Mike DaRoza.

However, Tabor’s credibility has come under increasing scrutiny since his resignation. Within weeks of leaving his City position, he reemerged as a paid consultant — representing a private client before the Planning and Zoning Board on a project that had already been under City review during his tenure. Tabor had some involvement with the project while still employed by the City, and it is now being advanced by a private firm that employs him.

The very individual who once raised concerns about insider influence is now facing criticism for engaging in similar conduct — using influence and knowledge gained from his public role to benefit a private developer.

Further fueling skepticism is the disclosure that Tabor applied for a promotion to Assistant City Manager prior to his resignation but was not selected. The timing of his departure and subsequent consulting role has led some to question whether his accusations were driven by personal disappointment rather than public interest.

Despite these developments, a small group of individuals continued to press for an investigation, framing the resignations as a red flag that warranted outside review. But with the department now fully staffed under new leadership, and the central claims increasingly viewed through the lens of Tabor’s post-employment conduct, momentum behind the proposal has waned.

Local businessperson Mandy Bucci expressed skepticism about whether an investigation would resolve the concerns of those still demanding one.

“Whoever wants this investigation may not get what they want to hear,” Bucci said. “And how are we to know that that's going to be enough for them and that they're not going to stop and want more, and to what end to? When are we going to put it to bed?”

Monday night’s deadlock comes after months of debate and indecision among commissioners over whether to pursue a formal inquiry. For now, with no action taken, the City appears ready to move on.

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NEWBERRY – During a packed agenda at its July 28, 2025, regular meeting, the Newberry City Commission took multiple actions shaping the city’s fiscal outlook, youth leadership opportunities, and long-term growth. Commissioners unanimously set the preliminary millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year, approved the creation of a Mayor’s Youth Council, and advanced 15 separate voluntary annexation ordinances representing more than 200 acres.

The meeting was followed by a brief break and then a separate Board of Adjustment session.

Millage Rate Set at Rollback Level

Via Resolution 2025-32, the commission approved a preliminary millage rate of 6.0623 mills — the rolled-back rate for the coming year. The rollback rate is the amount needed to generate the same tax revenue as the previous year from existing properties, excluding revenue from new construction. While it does not reduce tax bills, it prevents increases tied solely to rising property values.

City officials emphasized that this decision reflects a fiscally conservative approach aimed at holding steady on revenue collections while new development continues to grow the city’s tax base. Two required budget hearings are scheduled for Sept. 8 and Sept. 22 at 7 p.m., during which the commission will finalize the tax rate and budget for fiscal year 2025-26.

Youth Council Approved on First Reading

Commissioners also approved the first reading of an ordinance establishing the Mayor’s Youth Council, a new initiative designed to give local students a platform to engage in civic life. The ordinance outlines the creation of the council, procedures for appointing members and officers, how vacancies will be filled, and expectations for meeting frequency and public recordkeeping.

The council will serve as an advisory body, giving youth a voice in city matters while promoting leadership skills, civic responsibility, and public service education. A second reading of the ordinance will be required before the council is officially launched.

Annexations Cover More Than 200 Acres

In a series of quasi-judicial public hearings, the commission unanimously approved 15 voluntary annexation ordinances, covering approximately 203 acres across 16 parcels currently located in unincorporated Alachua County. These parcels will become part of the City of Newberry if approved again on second reading, scheduled for Aug. 11.

The annexed properties range from under an acre to more than 100 acres and are expected to help eliminate enclaves — county land surrounded by city boundaries — which complicate service delivery and planning. CRA Coordinator Chelsea Bakaitis presented each ordinance individually.

“Second Reading of these ordinances will be held on Aug. 11,” Bakaitis said.

Parcels include acreage owned by individuals and limited liability corporations, with uses likely to remain residential or agricultural in the near term.

Community and Infrastructure Updates

Newberry High School Principal Jill Atchley thanked the City for completing sidewalk improvements along 258th Street. She also noted upcoming school events, including new student orientation on Aug. 7 at 9 a.m. and the annual Blue and Gold volleyball game on Aug. 8 at 5 p.m., followed by a pep rally hosted by the Quarterback Club at 6:30 p.m. Atchley also previewed upgrades planned for the school’s softball field.

Newberry Main Street Organization President Chris Mack announced that Splash Days will be held Aug. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. Though he did not specify the location, the event is typically held near the CSX railroad tracks in downtown Newberry.

City Manager Jordan Marlowe provided project updates, reporting that improvements to Champions Park are nearly complete. The upgrades include new netting poles to extend past first base, fixed bathrooms, misting fans near concession areas, and installed fans in dugouts to improve player comfort during summer tournaments.

Marlowe also confirmed that the new City Hall remains on schedule and on budget, with completion expected in September. He additionally addressed a road repair delay near the Easton neighborhood, where underground utility work postponed the restoration of a small roundabout. Marlowe noted that weather has slowed progress but that repairs are expected soon.

Board of Adjustment Grants Variance

Following the commission meeting, the Board of Adjustment convened to hear a single request: a variance for minimum lot size in the Agricultural zoning district. Resolution 2025-22, which permits the subdivision of a 9.49-acre property into two ~4.7-acre lots, was approved unanimously. While Agricultural zoning typically requires a five-acre minimum, the lots meet gross density standards when factoring in adjacent public rights-of-way.

City planning staff concluded the request met all criteria in the city’s land development code and was consistent with the comprehensive plan.

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Alachua Police Department officers pose with a safely restrained alligator after assisting a licensed trapper with its removal from a storm drain on July 22, 2025. The unusual call came just before officers apprehended a burglary suspect nearby / Photo Special to Alachua County Today

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ALACHUA – Officers with the Alachua Police Department (APD) responded to two dramatically different calls for service on the evening of July 22, 2025 — assisting with the removal of an alligator from a storm drain and later arresting a burglary suspect hiding near a pond behind a local car dealership.

The evening began when APD was called to assist a licensed trapper with the safe capture of an alligator discovered in a storm drain.

While still on scene of the alligator call, at approximately 8:51 p.m., officers were dispatched to a reported vehicle burglary in progress at the Highway 700 Car Dealership, located along Northwest U.S. Highway 441.

Upon arrival, officers quickly located a man matching the suspect description hiding behind the business near a pond. With the assistance of APD Canine Officer Joker, the suspect was detained without incident.

An investigation revealed that the suspect had unlawfully entered a vehicle on the lot and attempted to start it. Additional surveillance video from a nearby business also captured the same individual tampering with equipment on that property.

The suspect, identified as DJeff Chery, age 42, was arrested and charged with burglary of an unoccupied conveyance, unarmed, and loitering or prowling. He was issued trespass warnings for both properties and transported to the Alachua County Jail. His bond was set at $25,000.

The Alachua Police Department emphasized the unpredictable nature of law enforcement work and praised its officers’ flexibility and professionalism.

“Whether it’s removing an unexpected reptile or tracking down a suspect, our officers are always ready,” the department stated.

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BRISTOL, Fla. – On Aug. 3, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m., the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) was alerted to a kidnapping suspect traveling along U.S. 319 in Wakulla County. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Maurtez Rashaad Edwards of Macon, Georgia, was wanted for the aggravated kidnapping of his 2-month-old child.

Z FHP Edwards
At 4:35 p.m., FHP Trooper Norris and deputies from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) responded to a new alert indicating that Edwards’ vehicle was heading westbound on State Roads 20 and 267 in Leon County, approaching Liberty County. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the suspect refused to pull over and accelerated, initiating a dangerous high-speed pursuit.

Trooper Norris led the chase and attempted a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver when conditions allowed. Edwards evaded the maneuver, reversed direction, and began traveling east on SR 20. Despite two additional PIT attempts, he continued driving erratically—brake-checking pursuing officers and varying his speed—posing an increasing risk to public safety.

As the pursuit entered Gadsden County, it became evident that Edwards was actively kidnapping the infant, showing reckless disregard for the child’s safety while reaching speeds of up to 92 miles per hour.

With coordinated efforts by FHP, LCSO, and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO), Trooper Myers joined the pursuit and successfully executed a final PIT maneuver. When Edwards exited the vehicle and attempted to flee, LCSO deputies moved in. He then retrieved an AR-15 rifle hidden inside the vehicle and placed the barrel under his chin. Deputies engaged and safely disarmed him after a brief struggle.

Edwards subsequently abandoned the infant and fled on foot into a wooded area. He was quickly apprehended by Trooper Sanders and LCSO deputies.

Trooper Norris located the abducted infant, safely secured in a car seat carrier, with no visible injuries. Family members were notified and met the child at a hospital in Gadsden County, where he was reunited with his mother and grandmother.

“Our mission is to serve and protect the people of Florida, and this successful operation highlights what’s possible when state and local agencies work together,” said Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. “I commend everyone involved for their professionalism and commitment to public safety.”

“This incident highlights how important it is for the motoring public to stay alert to their surroundings and assist law enforcement,” said Colonel Gary Howze of the Florida Highway Patrol. “It demonstrates how Florida law enforcement agencies work together as force multipliers in our commitment to helping those in harm’s way, pursuing justice, and holding criminals accountable.”

“This was outstanding cooperation between multiple agencies,” said Liberty County Sheriff Dusty Arnold. “I can’t say enough about the Florida Highway Patrol and the deputies and dispatchers here at the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office for their hard work.”

Maurtez Rashaad Edwards was booked into the Liberty County Jail and faces the following charges:

  • Fleeing/Eluding with Disregard for Safety of Persons or Property (F.S. 316.1935.3a)
  • Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (F.S. 784.07.2c)
  • Aggravated Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer (F.S. 784.07.2d)
  • Cruelty Toward a Child Without Great Bodily Harm (F.S. 827.03.2c)
  • Kidnapping of a Minor Confined Under Age 13 Without Parental Consent (F.S. 787.01.1b)
  • Use or Display of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (F.S. 790.07.2)

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TALLAHASSEE — As part of a statewide initiative to increase oversight of local government spending, Governor Ron DeSantis has deployed two teams from the newly established Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to Gainesville and Broward County. The move is intended to fulfill the governor’s pledge to promote transparency and fiscal accountability across the state. The full press release from the Governor’s Office follows:

Florida DOGE Puts Boots on the Ground in Gainesville and Broward County 

 TALLAHASSEE — Today, two teams from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency arrived in to Broward County and the City of Gainesville to make good on Governor Ron DeSantis’ promise to ensure transparency and accountability in government. These teams will closely analyze local government spending, with team members from the Department of Financial Services, Department of Revenue, Department of Transportation, Department of Commerce, and Department of Education. 

“Florida is the model for fiscal responsibility at the state level, and we will utilize our authority to ensure local governments to follow suit,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida’s DOGE efforts are owed to the taxpayer and yet another way their state is pursuing fiscal responsibility.” 

Over the last five years, the taxpayers of Broward County have watched as the county government has increased burdens on property owners to the annual tune of over $450 million dollars in additional ad valorem tax collections. This has been part of a spending spree that has seen Broward County’s annual operating budget expand by over $1.2 billion, during a time when the county’s population has grown by less than 5%. 

This year—and for every year to come, unless it cuts spending—the City of Gainesville will spend at least $90 million more than it did four years ago. This increase in spending is now levied in part on Gainesville property owners, who are expected to pay 85% more in property taxes than what they paid in 2020. This is due to both a rate increase and to rising property values that should be, but have not been, offset by a corresponding cut in taxes. As a result, Gainesville’s taxpayers are carrying an additional $90 million burden each year. 

"We're ushering in a new era of transparency and accountability in Florida, said Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia. For years, I've called out reckless local spending, often on things taxpayers would never support if they knew the full story. As local budgets grow, we must ask whether these increases are truly justified. Too often, we see spending far outpacing what Floridians can actually afford. I'm focused on making life more affordable—especially when it comes to housing, insurance, and taxes—and that starts with right-sizing government. Through the authority of my office and Governor DeSantis’ Florida DOGE initiative, we're opening the books, demanding answers, and bringing fiscal sanity back. Florida’s taxpayers should know that this CFO has their back!” 

Additionally, letters of intent to visit have been sent to Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Orange counties as well as the city of Jacksonville to prepare for on-site visits from DOGE teams.

Governor Ron DeSantis created the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) through Executive Order 25-44 in February 2025 to ensure government efficiency, transparency, and accountability at all levels of government, including state agencies, state colleges and universities, and local governments. 

Having entrusted their governments with the power to tax, the citizens of Florida have a right to expect that their elected officials will spend the collected funds responsibly. Throughout his tenure, Governor DeSantis has made clear his commitment to fiscal responsibility and efficiency. Florida has paid down nearly 50% of the State’s total historic tax-supported debt and has maxed-out the state’s rainy-day fund during his tenure. Additionally, the Governor’s signing of the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget marks the second consecutive year of a year-over-year reduction in state spending.

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LOXAHATCHEE, Fla. — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed two new laws Wednesday aimed at cracking down on animal cruelty and ensuring greater protection for pets during emergencies and in daily care.

Known as Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law, the legislation imposes tougher penalties for abandonment, neglect, and abuse of animals, with specific provisions to address conduct during natural disasters and instances of aggravated cruelty.

“Across Florida, we have seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” DeSantis said during the bill signing. “I was proud to sign Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law today. Florida stands by man’s best friend.”

Trooper’s Law (Senate Bill 150) makes it a third-degree felony to restrain and abandon a dog outdoors during a declared natural disaster or under mandatory or voluntary evacuation orders. The law allows for penalties of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Inspired by a dog named Trooper—rescued by the Florida Highway Patrol after being left chained in the path of Hurricane Milton—the bill also codifies misdemeanor charges for failure to provide adequate food, water, and exercise to confined animals or for abandoning them.

Dexter’s Law (House Bill 255), named after a shelter dog killed just days after adoption in Pinellas County, enhances penalties for aggravated animal cruelty. The law includes a 1.25 sentencing multiplier for offenders and establishes Florida’s first animal abuser database, a tool intended to help prevent repeat abuse and improve community safety.

Both bills were supported by bipartisan efforts and animal welfare advocates across the state. The laws go into effect later this year.

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TALLAHASSEE — On May27,2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills:
 
CS/CS/SB 112 - Children with Developmental Disabilities
CS/CS/SB 768 - Foreign Countries of Concern
CS/CS/SB 1546 - Background Screening of Athletic Coaches
CS/HB 999 - Legal Tender
CS/HB 547 - Medical Debt
CS/CS/HB 757 - Sexual Images

To view the Senate transmittal letter, click here
To view the House transmittal letter, click here.

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TALLAHASSEE — Florida’s pristine coastline has once again received national recognition, with two Florida State Parks named among the top 10 beaches in the United States by coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, known as Dr. Beach.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples secured the No. 4 spot on the 2025 list, while St. Andrews State Park in Panama City came in at No. 7. The annual rankings, released each Memorial Day weekend, highlight beaches that excel in natural beauty, cleanliness, safety and visitor amenities.

“Florida State Parks continue to set the standard for natural beauty, visitor experience and resource protection,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Our parks offer some of the best beach experiences anywhere in the country, and we are proud to share them with the world.”

Delnor-Wiggins Pass, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is known for its sugar-white sand and thriving ecosystem. Popular activities include snorkeling along the reef, kayaking through mangrove-lined Wiggins Pass, birdwatching, fishing and hiking.

On Florida’s Panhandle, St. Andrews State Park features a mile-and-a-half of shoreline ideal for swimming, surfing and shelling. The park also offers nature trails through pine forests and coastal habitats and a ferry to nearby Shell Island, a secluded barrier island with emerald waters and untouched beaches.

“Delnor-Wiggins Pass and St. Andrews are incredible natural treasures,” said Chuck Hatcher, director of Florida State Parks. “We're proud of the work our team has done to protect these beaches while ensuring they remain accessible for everyone to enjoy.”

The Top 10 Beach List, curated by Dr. Leatherman, a professor at Florida International University, evaluates more than 50 criteria including sand softness, water clarity, environmental quality and public access.

“Florida State Parks’ beaches are among the most outstanding in the nation, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass and St. Andrews are two of the best examples,” Leatherman said. “Several other Florida beach parks also ranked in the top 20 this year, which speaks to the exceptional quality and stewardship across the entire park system.”

Florida’s state parks have a strong history of high rankings on Dr. Beach’s annual list. Six have previously been named No. 1 in the nation, including St. George Island (2023), Grayton Beach (2020), Caladesi Island (2008), St. Joseph Peninsula (2002), St. Andrews (1995) and Bahia Honda (1992).

The Florida State Parks system, recognized four times with the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal, is a current finalist for an unprecedented fifth award.

For more information or to plan a visit, go to FloridaStateParks.org.

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TALLAHASSEE - Save the dates for two upcoming license-free fishing weekends hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a perfect opportunity to try fishing with your friends and family!

This summer's license-free fishing weekends are on June 7-8 for saltwater and June 14-15 for freshwater. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the many recreational fishing opportunities Florida has to offer, whether you like to fish from the shore or your boat, there are so many options across the state.

People of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to take advantage of these special weekends, which allow them to reel in their favorite fish species without the need for a fishing license.

All other rules, such as seasons, bag and size limits apply. To renew or purchase a fishing license, visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

Visit the FWC’s fishing basics web page for tips and information on how to start fishing or refresh your knowledge.

Visit MyFWC.com and learn where to go freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, or how to find a boat ramp or pier near you.

Check out FWC’s angler recognition programs TrophyCatch and Catch a Florida Memory to win prizes and recognition.

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The history of the B vitamins is a fascinating journey that spans several decades and involves the work of numerous scientists. Initially William Garst HSthought to be a single nutrient, it was later discovered to be a complex group of essential water-soluble vitamins with distinct functions. Here's a brief overview of their discovery:

The Beriberi Connection

The story begins in the late 19th Century with the investigation of beriberi, a debilitating disease prevalent in regions where polished white rice was a dietary staple.

  • 1889: Dutch physician Christiaan Eijkman, working in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), observed that chickens fed polished white rice developed beriberi-like symptoms, which were reversed when they were fed unpolished brown rice. This suggested a nutritional deficiency.
  • 1906: English biochemist Frederick Gowland Hopkins proposed the existence of "accessory food factors" beyond fats, proteins, and carbohydrates that were essential for growth and health.

The “Vitamine” Concept

  • 1911: Polish biochemist Casimir Funk, working in London, isolated a substance from rice polishings that could cure beriberi in pigeons. He proposed that this and other similar substances were vital amines, coining the term “vitamine.” Although not all vitamins are amines, the name stuck (later dropping the “e”).

Distinguishing Multiple Factors

  • 1913: American biochemist Elmer McCollum distinguished between “fat-soluble factor A” and “water-soluble factor B,” recognizing that there was more than one essential nutrient in the water-soluble category.

Isolation and Identification of Individual B Vitamins:

The subsequent decades saw the isolation and characterization of the individual B vitamins:

  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Isolated in crystalline form in 1926 by Dutch chemists Barend Jansen and Willem Donath. It was the first B vitamin to be identified and was found to be the anti-beriberi factor.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): First observed as a yellow-green fluorescent pigment in milk in 1872, it was characterized and named riboflavin in the early 1930s.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Its deficiency was linked to pellagra in 1915 by Joseph Goldberger. The chemical structure was determined in 1937 by Conrad Elvehjem.
  • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Discovered in 1933 by Roger J. Williams while researching essential nutrients for yeast.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Identified in 1934 by Paul Gyorgy.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Research spanned the early 1900s, with contributions from Margaret Averil Boas (1927) and Paul Gyorgy (who named it Vitamin H in 1939), among others.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): Identified in 1933 by Lucy Wills for its role in preventing a type of anemia during pregnancy.
  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Its deficiency was linked to pernicious anemia. It was isolated in 1947 by Karl Folkers and his team.

The “B Complex”

As each water-soluble vitamin with a distinct function was discovered, they were grouped together as the “vitamin B complex.” This term reflects their shared water solubility and their common occurrence in many of the same foods, as well as their often-interconnected roles in metabolic processes.

Nobel Prizes

The importance of B vitamin research is highlighted by the Nobel Prizes awarded to scientists involved in their discovery and understanding:

  • 1929: Christiaan Eijkman and Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work on the discovery of vitamins. Eijkman's work focused on the link between diet and beriberi (leading to the identification of Vitamin B1), while Hopkins was recognized for his broader contributions to the understanding of essential nutrients.
  • 1934: George Whipple, George Minot, and William Murphy received the Nobel Prize for their work on the treatment of pernicious anemia using liver extracts, which eventually led to the isolation of Vitamin B12.
  • 1964: Dorothy Hodgkin was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her work on determining the structures of important biochemical substances, including Vitamin B12.

Modern Understanding

Today, we have a detailed understanding of the chemical structures, functions, dietary sources, and deficiency symptoms of each of the B vitamins. They are known to play crucial roles as coenzymes in numerous metabolic pathways, affecting energy production, nerve function, red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and many other vital processes.

It's worth noting that several other substances were once considered part of the B complex and assigned B numbers (like B4, B8, B10, B11), but these were later found to be either synthesized by the body or not essential and were thus removed from the official list of B vitamins

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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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Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays many crucial roles in the body. Here are some of its key benefits:

William Garst HS
Vision

  • Essential for night vision: Vitamin A is a component of rhodopsin, a protein in the eyes that allows us to see in low-light conditions. Deficiency can lead to night blindness. Supports overall eye health: It helps maintain the cornea (the outer layer of the eye) and conjunctiva (the membrane covering the surface of the eye).
  • May reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts: Some studies suggest that adequate vitamin A intake, often through carotenoids like beta-carotene, may lower the risk of these age-related eye conditions.
  • Treats dry eyes and inflammation: Vitamin A can help moisten the eyes and reduce inflammation.

Immune Function

  • Supports immune cell development: Vitamin A is crucial for the development and function of various immune cells, including neutrophils and macrophages, which fight off infections.
  • Maintains the mucosal barrier: It helps maintain the health of the mucous membranes in the nose, sinuses, mouth, and gut, which act as a barrier against pathogens.
  • May reduce the severity of certain infections: In deficient children, vitamin A supplementation can reduce the severity of measles and diarrhea.

Skin Health

  • Promotes cell growth and turnover: Vitamin A is involved in the growth and repair of skin cells.
  • May help treat acne: Topical retinoids (a form of vitamin A) are commonly used to treat acne by promoting skin cell turnover and reducing oil production
  • .Reduces signs of aging: Topical retinoids can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin cell turnover.
  • Supports wound healing: Vitamin A plays a role in collagen production and reduces inflammation, which are important for wound healing.
  • May help treat other skin conditions: Prescription retinoids are used to treat conditions like psoriasis and warts.

Growth and Development

  • Essential for cell growth and differentiation: Vitamin A is needed for the proper development and specialization of cells throughout the body.
  • Important for fetal development: It plays a critical role in the growth and development of the fetus during pregnancy.
  • Supports bone health: Vitamin A contributes to bone growth and maintenance.
  1. Reproduction:
  • Essential for both male and female reproductive health: It is involved in sperm and egg development.
  • Important for placental health: Vitamin A is crucial for the health and function of the placenta during pregnancy.

Antioxidant Activity

  • Carotenoids act as antioxidants: Beta-carotene and other carotenoids, which can be converted to vitamin A in the body, are potent antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Important Considerations:

  • Deficiency: Vitamin A deficiency can lead to various health problems, including night blindness, increased risk of infections, and skin issues.
  • Toxicity: Excessive intake of vitamin A can be harmful, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and even liver damage. Pregnant women should be particularly careful not to exceed the recommended upper limit due to the risk of birth defects.
  • Food Sources: It's generally best to obtain vitamin A through a balanced diet rich in sources like liver, fish, dairy products, eggs, and orange and yellow fruits and vegetables (which contain beta-carotene).

It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate amount of vitamin A for your individual needs

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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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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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“I say to you today, my friends, though, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’” These words are as moving today as when first spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the passionate and influential civil rights leader who stood as a “pillar of hope and a model of grace” in his fight towards equality for all.

On January 17, we will reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King, who, with his brave supporters, stood in strong opposition to racial discrimination, as well as the wrongful and unequal treatment of people who differed in national origin and religious beliefs.

The State of Florida continues to carry Dr. King’s legacy forward, committed to ending discrimination and ensuring all within our state have fair and equal access to employment and housing - because every person deserves to live the American Dream. The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) was established in 1969 to enforce the Florida Civil Rights Act and address discrimination through education, outreach, and partnership. Annually, the FCHR recognizes and honors Floridians who advance civil rights throughout the state in the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame.

As we take this time to honor Dr. King, let us consider how we can improve our own communities. Everyone should have the opportunity to live the American Dream. Dr. King paved the way for our society to embrace equality, and it is our job as Americans and Floridians to ensure the civil rights of all people.

Angela Primiano, Vice-Chair

Florida Commission on Human Relations

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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is on June 15. On this day, and throughout the month, communities, seniors, caregivers, governments, organizations, and the private sector unite to prevent the mistreatment of and violence against older people.

Social Security imposter scams are widespread across the United States. Scammers use sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. They target everyone – even the elderly – and their tactics continue to evolve.

Most recently, Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has received reports of phone scammers creating fake versions of the identification badges most Federal employees use to gain access to Federal buildings. The scammers may text or email photos of the fake badges to convince potential victims of their legitimacy. These badges use government symbols, words, and even names and photos of real people, which are available on government websites or through internet searches.

If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, hang up or do not respond. You should know how to identify when it’s really Social Security. We will NEVER:

  • Text or email images of an employee’s official government identification.
  • Suspend your Social Security number.
  • Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee.
  • Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or cash by mail.
  • Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment.
  • Send official letters or reports containing your personal information via email.

We only send text messages if you have opted in to receive texts from us and only in limited situations, including the following:

  • When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.
  • As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.

If you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights.

We encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams — and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG website at oig.ssa.gov. You may read our previous Social Security fraud advisories at oig.ssa.gov/newsroom/news-release. Please share this information with your friends and family to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.

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The first drug developed to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD), the modern term for alcoholism, was disulfiram (Antabuse). Today disulfiram is still used, but as a second line William Garst HSdrug behind acamprosate (Campral) and naltrexone (Revia, Vivitrol). Disulfiram works by blocking the enzymatic breakdown of alcohol and allowing a metabolite to build up in the blood, producing very unpleasant effects. People taking disulfiram will be deterred from ingesting alcohol because they know they will become very ill. The drug is used as an aid to help alcoholics overcome their cravings and addiction.

Disulfiram (a compound that contains sulfur) was first synthesized in 1881 as an industrial chemical, and in the early 1900s was introduced in the manufacturing of rubber. Adding sulfur in rubber manufacturing produces varying degrees of hardness in the final rubber compound.

During the late 1930s sulfur compounds, including disulfiram, were being investigated because of the antimicrobial effects of drugs containing sulfur, and the search was intense. Two scientists at the Danish firm of Medicinalco, Erik Jacobson and Jens Hald, began investigating disulfiram for treatment of intestinal parasites. This company had a group of employees called the “Death Battalion” who would experiment on themselves.

During this phase of testing the drug on themselves, they discovered they became ill after ingesting alcohol. This discovery was made in 1945, but a few years later disulfiram was considered to be used in the treatment of alcoholism as an aversive-reaction drug therapy. Jacobson and Hald’s work was finally published in 1948 and disulfiram was approved by the FDA in 1951.

The discovery of disulfiram led to a renewed interest in the metabolism of alcohol in the body. It was known alcohol was metabolized in the liver and broken down to acetaldehyde then to acetic acid and carbon dioxide by unknown enzymes. In 1950 it was discovered that disulfiram blocked the action of the enzyme that converts acetaldehyde, thus causing an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the bloodstream, which is the cause of the unpleasant effects.

Effects that occur when disulfiram is taken with alcohol include flushing, sweating, nausea and vomiting, chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. One should not take disulfiram within 12 hours of alcohol ingestion or 14 days from the last dose of the drug. In addition, products that contain alcohol such as aftershave, cologne, perfume, antiperspirant, and mouthwash can produce unpleasant reactions for people taking Antabuse. Other products to avoid are paint thinners, solvents, and stains, along with dyes, resins and waxes, because even small amounts of alcohol absorbed through the skin can produce the effects.

Other drugs can produce adverse reactions, commonly called the “antabuse-like reaction.” The most notable of these drugs are metronidazole (Flagyl, an antibiotic), griseofulvin (an antifungal), and some cephalosporin antibiotics. If a drug is known to have this side effect, it should be pointed out to the patient by the prescriber and the pharmacist. Always read the drug information given to you when starting a new medication that tells you about side effects that may occur and how to avoid them.

Substance abuse of any kind is not good, but alcohol abuse has been especially devastating to society, families, and individuals because of the convenient availability, relative inexpensiveness, and its association with festivities. In addition, the abuse of alcohol leads to lack of inhibitions and unpredictable behaviors, which are many times violent and destructive. When people take disulfiram, they are acknowledging their problem, and they know that very unpleasant reactions will occur if alcohol is consumed, thus it helps to deter the first drink.

The history of disulfiram is still being written. Currently, it is being studied to treat certain cancers, parasitic infections, HIV, and Covid-19.

Stay informed and stay healthy.

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William Garst is a consultant pharmacist who resides in Alachua, Florida. He received his B.S. in Pharmacy from Auburn University in 1975. He earned a master’s degree in Public Health in 1988 from the University of South Florida and a Master’s in Pharmacy from UF in 2001. In 2007, he received his Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Colorado. Dr. Garst is a member of many national, state, and local professional associations. He serves on the Alachua County Health Care Advisory Board and stays active as a relief pharmacist. In 2016, he retired from the VA. Dr. Garst enjoys golf, reading (especially history), and family. He writes a blog called The Pharmacy Newsletter (https://thepharmacynewsletter.com/). William Garst can be contacted at communitypharmac
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis hosted "the Governor’s Inaugural Ball” at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center this evening.  

 

Joined on stage by their three children, Madison, Mason, and Mamie, the couple walked out to a rendition of Van Zant’s “Sweet Florida,” and danced to Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.” 

 

All members of the Florida Cabinet accompanied by their spouses and attendees gathered to celebrate The Free State of Florida.

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