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Alachua police officers escort local students during the 2025 Shop with a Cop event, where 50 children received $100 each to shop for items and gifts at Walmart. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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Santa brings holiday greetings during the Alachua Christmas parade. Alachua County Today Staff Photographer.

The GFWC District 5 Director installed the new GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club’s Board of Directors for 2026 – 2028. Pictured L-R: Photo - L - R: District 5 Director - Sallie Milner, President - Bonnie Josey, 1st. Vice President - Shirley Macrides, 2nd. Vice President - Vickie Cox, Corresponding Secretary - Marlene Hackland, Treasurer - Mary Sears, Historian - Linda Alexander. Not pictured: Recording Secretary - Pat Carr. \ Photo special to Alachua County Today

Players battle for possession during a youth basketball game in Alachua, where more than 220 local children are participating in the community’s winter league./ Photo special to Alachua County Today

Theatre Park renovations were funded in part by a $50,000 T-Mobile Hometown Grant awarded earlier this year and delivers on a multi-year vision to rebuild the park from the ground up. / Today Staff Photographer

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Community members attend the City of Alachua’s 21st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: I Pledge Community Event on Jan. 19 at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center, featuring music, remarks and fellowship honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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ALACHUA – The City of Alachua marked Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 19, 2026, with its 21st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: I Pledge Community Event, drawing residents together for a morning of reflection, music and community fellowship. Held at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center, the celebration began at 10 a.m. and featured a blend of inspirational speakers, musical performances and theatrical presentations honoring King’s enduring legacy of equality, service and unity.

More than six decades after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech on a sweltering August day in Washington, D.C., his legacy continues to inspire people across the nation and some 200 people attended the Alachua event to honor Dr. King's legacy.

Keynote speaker Deric C. Feacher, known as “The Messenger,” delivered guest remarks as part of a program that emphasized civic responsibility and collective commitment to King’s vision. The Bethune-Cookman University Inspirational Gospel Choir provided a featured choral presentation that served as a centerpiece of the morning program.

Several city officials attended the event, including Alachua Mayor Walter Welch, Vice Mayor Shirley Green Brown, and City Commissioners Dayna Williams and Jennifer Ringersen. City Manager Rodolfo Valladares also participated in the program offering remarks on behalf of the City of Alachua.

Musical selections throughout the program were performed by the 24/7 Music Ensemble, which opened the ceremony with a musical prelude and returned for interludes during the event. Carol Richardson served as master of ceremonies, welcoming attendees and guiding the program. An invocation was offered by Minister Greg Miller, followed by performances of the national anthem and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Additional performances included a solo by Evangelist Carolyn Rushing and a theatrical presentation, The March, by I Am Productions led by Andrew Miller. George Bethea performed an interlude, and the Alachua Senior Cha-Chas drew applause with dance performances familiar to many in the community.

The program concluded with a blessing of the food by the Rev. John E. Brown of St. Paul AME Church before attendees gathered for a shared community meal, a tradition that has become a hallmark of Alachua’s annual MLK celebration. Closing remarks were delivered by Damon Messina.

Planning and coordination for the event were guided by the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Advisory Committee, which included Lynn Hayes, Carol Richardson, Damon Messina, Jack Hansen, Pam Philman, Linnelle Stewart, Daavid Wisener and Kenyata Curtis. Community sponsor Visit Gainesville, Alachua County supported the celebration.

Now in its 21st year, the City of Alachua’s Martin Luther King Jr. celebration continues to serve as a space for remembrance and renewal, bringing together residents of all ages to honor Dr. King’s message through shared experiences of music, reflection and fellowship.

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L-R: Larry Wilson and Newberry Mayor Tim Marden/Photo special to Alachua County Today

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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission formally recognized longtime volunteer and artist Larry Wilson during its Jan. 12, 2026, meeting, approving a proclamation declaring Jan. 24, 2026, as Larry Wilson Day in the city.

Mayor Tim Marden presented the proclamation, citing Wilson’s extensive volunteer service and artistic contributions to downtown Newberry and its cultural life. “Wilson generously volunteered his time and talents with the Newberry Main Street Organization, serving on its Board and as Curator of the Firehouse Art Gallery. Through the Art Gallery he helped provide local artists a place to show and sell their work while also encouraging residents and visitors to spend time and money in downtown Newberry,” Marden said.

Wilson’s work with the Newberry Main Street Organization includes serving on the board and curating exhibitions at the Firehouse Art Gallery. In 2025, the gallery generated $3,470 in sales, underscoring its role in supporting local artists while contributing to the downtown economy. In addition to coordinating gallery shows and opening receptions, Wilson’s own artwork has been featured in exhibitions and recognized by fellow artists, including being named the winning artist in the 125th Anniversary of the Founding of Newberry Art Show.

Beyond the gallery, Wilson has donated his creative skills to the broader community. He redesigned the Newberry Main Street Organization logo to reflect the character of downtown and has painted numerous decorative elements displayed throughout the area. City officials noted that these visual enhancements help define Newberry’s identity and create a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors.

Marden also highlighted Wilson’s hands-on support of community events. “He supports the success of community festivals including the Fall and Spring Festivals, BBQ and Blues Festival and the Fabulous 50s Festival, often arriving before daylight to assist with vendor setup and event preparation,” the mayor said.

In declaring Larry Wilson Day, Marden encouraged residents to recognize Wilson’s service. The proclamation “encouraged all citizens to recognize and thank Larry Wilson for his service and contributions to the community.”

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ALACHUA – Firefighters from multiple agencies responded Saturday afternoon to a working fire at a motel in Alachua, where crews encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from a ground-floor room.

Just after noon Jan. 17, units from Alachua County Fire Rescue, High Springs Fire Rescue, LaCrosse Fire Department and Newberry Fire Rescue were dispatched to a residential unit at the Best Value Inn, located at 16100 N.W. U.S. Highway 441. Law enforcement units from the Alachua Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol also responded.

First-arriving crews reported thick, black smoke and heavy flames rolling from a window of a downstairs unit. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack while simultaneously conducting a primary search to ensure no occupants were inside the unit where the fire originated.

The fire was brought under control quickly, officials said. Additional crews assisted with checking for fire extension into other areas of the building and confirmed that the blaze had been fully extinguished.

No injuries were reported. However, the commercial structure sustained significant damage from the fire and from on-scene firefighting operations required to prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the building.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office.

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HIGH SPRINGS – Palms Medical Group will host a Safe Riders Safe Drivers event later this month at its High Springs location, offering free car seat inspections and vehicle safety checks aimed at improving safety for drivers and passengers of all ages.

The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Palms Medical Group, 16916 N.W. U.S. Highway 441, in High Springs.

Presented by Safe Kids North Central Florida and UF Health Adult Trauma Injury Prevention and Outreach, the event will focus on proper car seat installation, child passenger safety and driver positioning to help reduce the risk of injury in crashes.

During the event, parents and caregivers may have their car seats inspected to ensure they are correctly installed and appropriate for their child’s age and size.

“Keeping children safe on the road starts with the right information and the right equipment,” said Jordyn Zyngier, Safe Kids North Central Florida coordinator. “Our goal is to remove barriers, provide education and support families in making the safest choice for their child.”

In addition to car seat checks, certified CarFit technicians will be available to assist drivers of all ages. The CarFit program evaluates how well a driver fits their vehicle, including adjustments to the seat, mirrors, steering wheel and other components that affect visibility and control.

“Small adjustments make a big difference on the road,” said Brian Dean, adult injury prevention and outreach coordinator for UF Health Trauma Services. “The CarFit program empowers drivers by ensuring their vehicle is properly fit to them. During a free, quick 12-point evaluation, trained CarFit technicians help drivers optimize vehicle safety features and review evolving in-vehicle technology.”

Palms Medical Group officials said hosting the event at the High Springs location allows safety resources to be easily accessible to local residents.

By offering these services in the community, Palms Medical Group continues its focus on promoting health and safety, supporting families and drivers through education and prevention efforts.

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NEWBERRY – Newberry City Commissioners moved forward on a wide range of growth, land-use and infrastructure matters on Jan. 12, 2026, finalizing voluntary annexations totaling approximately 227 acres, approving agreements to improve roadway connectivity and advancing zoning and policy changes aimed at accommodating future development.

Commissioners unanimously approved Voluntary Annexation #40 on second reading, which included 11 annexation requests from seven applicants. According to Community Development Director Stacey Hectus, the latest action brings the total number of acres voluntarily annexed into the city over the past year to 430 acres.

The annexations were approved through a series of ordinances involving multiple petitioners and parcel locations across the city’s growth areas.

In addition to annexations, commissioners finalized an agreement between the City of Newberry and CSX to extend the city’s easement along Seaboard Drive. The project is intended to improve roadway connectivity for residents by allowing the city to construct a future road connection to Southwest 15th Street.

Under the agreement, the city will pay CSX $100,000 immediately and an additional $100,000 during the next budget cycle to secure the easement. City officials described the project as a long-term priority aimed at improving transportation options and connectivity.

Land-use and zoning changes advance

Commissioners also approved, on first reading, a small-scale future land use map amendment requested by JBrown Professional Group Inc., doing business as JBPRO, acting as agent for PBR Financials Inc. The request would change the designation of a 0.72-acre property at the southeast corner of Northwest Third Avenue and Northwest 251st Street from Residential Low Density to Residential High Density.

“A companion rezoning application will also be heard during this meeting,” said Newberry Principal Planner Jean-Paul Perez during his presentation.

The request had previously been reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board, which recommended approval at its Dec. 1, 2025, meeting. A second reading is scheduled for Jan. 26, 2026.

During the same meeting, JBPRO Senior Planner Tara Howell indicated that the property owner plans to develop eight townhomes on the site.

A related rezoning request for the same property, changing the zoning district from Residential Single-Family (RSF-2) to Residential Multi-Family (RMF-2), was also approved following a quasi-judicial public hearing. That item will likewise return for second reading in January.

Accessory dwelling unit rules reviewed

Commissioners unanimously approved, on first reading, changes to the city’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations as part of Ordinance 2025-74. Hectus said the review was prompted following Annexation #39.

“After Annexation #39, staff was asked to review our ADU guidelines to see how they compare to Alachua County’s ADU guidelines,” Hectus said. “A few people had commented that we are more strict as it relates to ADUs and were not interested in annexing into the City for that reason.”

Proposed changes include increasing the maximum ADU size from 1,000 square feet to 1,700 square feet, updating state agency references and allowing ADUs to connect to a primary home’s septic system on properties of 10 acres or more. The Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended approval, and the ordinance will return for second reading Jan. 26.

Utilities and capital projects approved

Commissioners also approved entering into a contract with Woodard & Curran for $342,000 in engineering services related to the Tanglewood Water Tower project, authorizing the city manager to approve change orders not exceeding 15 percent of the contract amount.

The item was presented by Director of Public Works and Utilities Rance Green and includes services for a water main extension and elevated storage tank to address capacity, fire flow, redundancy and future demand. The project is part of the city’s capital improvement plan and is funded through State Revolving Fund loans and grants, contingent upon approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

The project is expected to go out for bid in January 2026, with construction beginning in June 2026 and completion anticipated by May 2027.

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ARCHER – A man wanted on a felony drug warrant was arrested Monday afternoon after deputies with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office used K-9 teams to locate him hiding beneath a large pile of debris inside an Archer residence.

Michael Louis Leopold, 47, was taken into custody at about 2:13 p.m. Jan. 12, 2026, after deputies found him concealed under a roughly four-foot-tall mound of belongings inside the home. Authorities said Leopold was wanted in Sarasota County for failing to appear at a hearing on a felony drug charge.

Deputies were dispatched to the residence after a neighbor reported seeing Leopold enter the home. According to the sheriff’s office, another resident told deputies that only Leopold and his girlfriend, Michele Belinda Lewis, 47, should have been inside the house. A deputy noted that the pair were living in a makeshift enclosed porch attached to the residence.

Deputies said repeated knocks at the front door went unanswered. After securing a loose dog in the backyard, deputies attempted contact at the back door and reported hearing dogs and a female voice inside the home. Loud verbal commands were issued for anyone inside to exit, but no one initially complied.

Multiple K-9 teams were called to the scene. Lewis eventually was seen inside the home after deputies created a small opening near a window-mounted air conditioning unit. Authorities said Lewis initially refused to exit or identify herself and denied that Leopold was inside. After additional commands, she eventually complied and was detained in handcuffs. Lewis later provided her name and again stated she did not know Leopold’s whereabouts.

With consent from the homeowners, deputies searched the residence and reported finding a Ruger 10/22 rifle in a bedroom identified as Leopold’s. Investigators noted that Leopold is a convicted felon and legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

Deputies described the bedroom as being filled with debris and belongings. About an hour into the search, a K-9 alerted to a large pile of items inside the room. After issuing loud commands, deputies began removing items and found Leopold lying on the floor beneath a blanket.

Authorities said Leopold resisted arrest and was apprehended by a K-9. Deputies reported that Leopold grabbed the dog’s face, mouth and neck before being pulled away. Leopold was treated for a dog bite and transported to a local hospital.

Based on the size of the debris pile, deputies concluded Leopold could not have concealed himself without assistance, leading to Lewis’ arrest.

Leopold was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, striking a law enforcement K-9 and resisting an officer without violence. Records show he has one felony conviction and three misdemeanor convictions. Judge Susan Miller-Jones set Leopold’s bail at $60,000 on the new charges.

Lewis was charged with resisting an officer without violence. She has no prior criminal convictions. Judge Miller-Jones ordered Lewis released on her own recognizance under the supervision of Court Services for mental health treatment.

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~ The following is a press release provided by Florida TaxWatch. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~ 

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida TaxWatch released a second report, Save Our Taxpayers – Property Tax Relief Must be Accomplished Equitably, as a follow up to its original report Options to Eliminate or Reduce the Property Tax Burden on Florida Homeowners primer, as the 2026 Legislative Session commences. This report examines the Florida House of Representative’s proposals, provides the fiscal impact of each, and calls for a ‘Save Our Taxpayers’ ballot amendment for equitable property tax relief.

Property taxes are by far the largest source of tax revenue for Florida’s local governments, generating $59.2 billion in FY2025-26 for counties, school districts, municipalities, and special districts, and that amount is rising rapidly. Of this total, more than $20 billion is paid by Florida homeowners. This revenue funds critical government services such as public safety, fire protection, education, and sanitation.

Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Jeff Kottkamp said, “While the Governor and many in the Legislature want to bring a property tax relief proposal to the voters in 2026, they are far from a consensus of what that proposal will look like. Property tax levies, fueled by rising property values, are increasing rapidly in Florida. They have more than doubled in the last 10 years, including 50 percent growth in the last four years. In turn, many local government budgets have dramatically increased over the last 10 years.

“Providing property tax relief to Florida taxpayers is commendable and the focus on homestead property by the Governor and the Legislature is understandable. But putting a proposal on the 2026 ballot to eliminate all property taxes, without also addressing ever escalating local government spending, is not advisable.

“Florida TaxWatch provides six recommendations, with actionable items, calling for a ‘Save Our Taxpayers’ amendment to replace the current inadequate 10 percent non-homestead assessment cap with one that matches the Save Our Homes cap of the lesser of three percent or inflation for all property owners. We look forward to working with policymakers to ensure property tax relief is equitable for all of Florida’s hardworking taxpayers.”

Those who have been bearing the brunt of rising property taxes should not be forgotten. This includes renters, businesses, people renovating or building an addition to their home, people moving to Florida, and new homeowners. Almost all of the proposals before the Legislature would increase the tax shift from homestead to non-homestead property that already stands at more than $10 billion and growing.

The time is right for a “Save Our Taxpayers” cap to be created, limiting the increases in assessments for both homestead and non-homestead property at the same growth rate. This has been a long-standing Florida TaxWatch recommendation and its research helped to get the constitutional amendment on the ballot that created the 10 percent homestead cap in 2008.

Based on the findings in this report, Florida TaxWatch recommends:

  1. The Legislature should not attempt to put a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot to eliminate all property taxes, even if it is limited to non-school property tax levies. Undertaking such a major change in Florida’s tax system should not be attempted without a comprehensive reform plan, including local government efficiency and fiscal responsibility, ensuring the provision of critical government services, and safeguards against the shifting taxes to non-homestead properties.
  1. A “Save Our Taxpayers” amendment should be put before the voters to replace the current inadequate 10 percent non-homestead assessment cap with one that matches the Save Our Homes cap of the lesser of three percent or inflation. This would help stop the current tax shift and ensure that all taxpayers are treated more fairly.
  1. The Legislature should create an additional exemption for new homeowners—for example, 25 percent of the new home’s initial assessed value. This could be structured so that the new homeowner would have an immediate 25 percent reduction in value which would then be phased out (dollar for dollar) as their Save Our Homes differential increases. This would reduce the cost of buying a home, especially in the first year, helping more Floridians achieve the goal of homeownership.
  1. If the Legislature wants to create a new homestead exemption, it should consider making the amount equal to a percentage of the median home value in the county where the home is located. Instead of a the same “one size fits all” amount for all homes statewide, tying the size of the exemption to each home’s value would make the tax savings relatively greater for those in the county with lower home values and therefore likely lower incomes. By acknowledging the difference in median home values between counties, it could help fiscally constrained counties deal with the revenue loss.
  1. Any new property tax benefit for homestead property only should be accompanied by a requirement that local governments adopt the rolled-back rate after adding back any taxable value lost to the new exemption, at least temporarily. This would ensure that tax burden is not shifted to other properties, but also that taxpayers receive the full value of the exemption the Legislature (and voters) expected.
  1. The Legislature should reform the Value Adjustment Board system, especially increasing the independence of VABs from the local officials that spend the money. A three percent success rate for taxpayers challenging their assessments (for people outside of Miami-Dade County) does not indicate a fair system.

Florida TaxWatch also examines the Florida House of Representatives’ seven proposed constitutional amendments and one statutory change, including the fiscal impact of each, which may be found on pages 5 through 8 here.

About Florida TaxWatch
As an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit government watchdog and taxpayer research institute, and the trusted “eyes and ears” of Florida taxpayers for more than 45 years, Florida TaxWatch (FTW) works to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. Its research recommends productivity enhancements and explains the statewide impact of fiscal and economic policies and practices on taxpayers and businesses. FTW is supported by its membership via voluntary, tax-deductible donations and private grants. Donations provide a solid, lasting foundation that has enabled FTW to bring about a more effective, responsive government that is more accountable to, and productive for, the taxpayers it has served since 1979. For more information, please visit www.floridataxwatch.org.

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~ The following is a press release provided by the office of Governor Ron DeSantis. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff. ~ 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis joined First Lady Casey DeSantis and Mayo Clinic President and CEO Dr. Kent Thielen to announce that Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville is launching the first carbon ion therapy program in America and the only carbon ion therapy program in the Western Hemisphere.

“Our administration is committed to fighting cancer by making targeted investments in innovative therapies that have the potential to save lives," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "During my time as governor, we’ve increased funding for cancer research and treatment programs by more than 114 percent. The Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program has strengthened Florida’s position as a national leader in cancer research and innovation. We’re proud that Mayo Clinic chose Florida as the home for this groundbreaking initiative, and we look forward to seeing how these cutting-edge therapies give hope to patients fighting some of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers.”

In June 2025, Mayo Clinic opened the 228,000-square-foot Duan Family Building in Jacksonville to expand cancer treatment and research. The new facility will be uniquely designed to deliver both carbon ion therapy and proton therapy, including the ability to treat the same tumor with either approach for greater precision.

“Under the Governor’s leadership, Florida continues to lead in innovation, and today at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, we are proving that this leadership extends beyond our state, transforming not only how we care for Floridians, but also how the rest of America approaches cancer treatment,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “This state-of-the-art technology was made possible, in part, through funding from the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program.”

Mayo Clinic expects proton therapy to begin in 2027 and carbon ion therapy to begin in 2028. Patients will benefit from expanded care well before then through additional services already being offered at the facility, including photon therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, advanced imaging, and other specialized cancer services.

Carbon ion therapy is one of the most advanced radiation treatment technologies in the world, designed for hard-to-treat and treatment-resistant cancers. Until now, the therapy has only been available at a limited number of centers in Asia and Europe.

Florida continues to invest heavily in cancer research and treatment. Since 2019, Florida has invested more than $1 billion, increasing cancer program funding by more than 114% and committing nearly $218 million for cancer research in 2025 alone.

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TALLAHASSEE – On Dec. 18, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a total of $311 million in awards to improve infrastructure in 37 Florida communities, which includes 32 awards to rural counties and small cities. These awards come from funding through both the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program, helping communities impacted by the 2023 and 2024 Storms—Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, Milton and the 2024 North Florida Tornadoes and funding from the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF). These awards invest in critical infrastructure needs ranging from utility and transportation improvements to emergency operations resources in these communities—especially supporting critical water infrastructure investments across the state.

“Today in Highlands County, I was proud to announce $311 million in grant awards to improve infrastructure in 37 communities across Florida impacted by the major storms of 2023 and 2024—Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, Milton and the North Florida Tornadoes,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These infrastructure projects will help make Florida more prosperous, more resilient, and better prepared to weather any storms that may come our way.”

“These awards directly support job creation by providing communities with the critical infrastructure to embolden their vision for resiliency and business formation,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Whether it’s upgrading utilities, developing pad ready manufacturing sites, or improving essential services, these projects help small and rural communities attract job creators, bolster their workforce and build a thriving economic future.”

The following communities will receive funds through the 2023 and 2024 Storms Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program:

 
  • Bradford County Board of County Commissioners ($5,951,403) - to structurally reinforce the roadway by adding base, pavement and re-establish the roadside swales by regrading and adding erosion protection.
  • Citrus County Board of County Commissioners ($16,435,400) – to support the replacement of a sanitary sewer system following stormwater intrusion and increased flows caused by the 2023 and 2024 storms. Upgrading these systems will expand capacity and help alleviate long-standing constraints on the county’s ability to grow, supporting future business development.  
  • City of Arcadia 
    o   $14,233,044 – to widen the main stormwater channel in the city,         providing additional storage during storms.  
    o   $8,514,000 – to construct and expand the wastewater treatment plant. 
  • City of Live Oak ($3,895,500) – to construct a 100,000-gallon water storage tank and support a water line loop project.  
  • City of Macclenny ($7,028,700) – to harden and modernize the Ohio Street Water Treatment Plant by upgrading and improving software and equipment. 
  • City of Palatka ($4,932,396) - to harden and expand the capacity of the city’s wastewater treatment plant to handle future wet weather surges. 
  • City of Wauchula ($2,386,500) – to support wastewater system repairs, rehabilitation and floodwater mitigation.  
  • Columbia County Board of County Commissioners ($4,000,000) – to upgrade and harden community shelters in Columbia County.  
  • DeSoto County Board of County Commissioners ($8,000,000) – to construct and install wells and a pumping system to connect the wastewater treatment plant to the disposal wells—providing a more secure, underground disposal method for treated wastewater.  
  • Hardee County Board of County Commissioners ($1,900,000) – to remove vegetative debris from the Peace River Waterway system. 
  • Jacksonville Electric Authority ($20,000,000) – to redirect all wastewater flows to Jacksonville Electric Authority’s existing, reliable wastewater treatment facility.   
  • Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners ($2,720,000) – to rehabilitate, preserve and harden five critical county-owned bridges.  
  • Peace River Watershed Project ($70,000,000) – to support the water infrastructure repair project in Polk County—ensuring restoration and resiliency that manages flood risk and water quality impairment through habitat restoration.  
  • Santa Fe College ($5,000,000) – to repair and upgrade the campus gymnasium due to significant roof damage from the 2023 and 2024 Storms.  
  • Sebring Airport Authority ($3,044,630) – to demolish and replace the existing stormwater system and associated infrastructure at Sebring Regional Airport and Multimodal Logistics Center. 
  • Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners ($38,044,115) – to construct the North Florida Regional Special Needs Emergency Shelter.   
  • Town of Glen St. Mary ($1,339,500) – to harden the wastewater collection system by installing permanent standby generators for the sanitary sewer lift stations.  
  • Town of St. Lucie Village ($12,124,812) – to construct a resilient, centralized potable water supply system for the town’s public use. 
  • Union County Board of County Commissioners ($1,401,750) – to construct a hardened public safety communications tower and upgrade the county’s current emergency dispatch system.  
  • Village of Indiantown  
    o   $9,300,000 – to construct a new Reverse Osmosis water treatment plant, replacing existing outdated systems.  
    o   $7,900,000 – to replace 13,000 linear feet of the main water transmission main for the Village. 

In addition to the $400 million in IRP funding, an allotment of $50 million has been allocated by HUD to eligible counties and municipalities located in 2023 and 2024 Storms' Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) areas affected by Hurricane Ian.

The following communities will receive funds under both Hurricane Ian and the 2023 and 2024 Storms Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program:
 
  • City of Avon Park ($22,248,529) – to assess, evaluate, repair, sleeve or rebuild the facilities at the City of Avon Park’s Sanitary Sewer Collection System.
  • Immokalee Water and Sewer District ($10,823,000) – to improve the existing wastewater treatment plant, addressing hydraulic imbalances, enhancing treatment reliability and providing surge capacity necessary to manage extreme wet-weather inflows.
  • Town of Dundee
    o   $6,008,781 – to harden the town’s sanitary sewer collection system and install monitoring equipment at the town’s wastewater treatment plant. 
    o   $10,257,429 – to repair damage and harden the town’s potable water system.
 
The RIF program supports infrastructure projects that drive job creation, capital investment, and strengthen economies in Rural Areas of Opportunity (RAO), rural counties and rural communities. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026, the Florida Legislature appropriated $17 million for the RIF statewide program and $5 million for the Panhandle-Specific program for a total of $22 million. FloridaCommerce received a record 112 applications requesting more than $195 million in funding during the 2025-2026 RIF application period. Since 2019, the program has awarded more than $110 million in grant funds.

The following communities will receive funds through the Rural Infrastructure Fund Program: 

  • City of Frostproof ($238,991) – to extend an existing water main, designing a 12-inch loop allowing for extension to the area proposed as the Duke Readiness Center. 
  • City of Lake City ($1,788,415) – to replace a hangar at the Lake City Gateway Airport significantly damaged by Hurricane Idalia.  
  • City of Okeechobee ($1,200,000) – to support a construction project aimed at improving public infrastructure, facilitating expansion within an existing industrial site, including the resurfacing of two major roads that provide access to the Okeechobee Commerce Center. 
  • City of Wauchula ($510,000) – to enhance the existing water distribution system by installing approximately 7,100 linear feet of water main, enhancing fire protection along Townsend Street to U.S. Highway 17. 
  • Columbia County Board of County Commissioners ($2,000,000) – to construct an inbound and outbound rail track serving the North Florida Mega Industrial Park.  
  • Hardee County ($250,000) – to build a dewatering facility, reducing long-term disposal costs. 
  • Hardee County Industrial Development Authority ($226,250) – to continue their centralized parking construction, including the relocation of electrical utilities underground. 
  • Keystone Heights Airport Authority ($2,950,450) – to construct a runway extension to Runway 2.   
  • Okeechobee Utility Authority ($1,000,000) – to install pipe and corresponding water mains to connect previously completed water infrastructure. 
  • Putnam County Board of County Commissioners ($3,000,000) – to construct and commission critical public infrastructure at the Central Landfill in Putnam County.  
  • Town of Zolfo Springs ($300,000) – to conduct a comprehensive Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Survey which will identify infiltration and inflow sources and address challenges from power outages, lift station failures and aging infrastructure.  

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TALLAHASSEE – Florida students are invited to take part in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month art and essay contests, celebrating this year’s theme: “Celebrating Florida’s Native American Heritage,” according to an announcement Thursday from the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida.

Native American Heritage Month is observed nationwide each November and serves as a time to acknowledge the cultural, historical and artistic contributions of Native Americans. This year’s contests are designed to encourage students across all grade levels to explore and share stories of Florida’s Native American leaders, artists and historical figures.

“We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I encourage every student to learn about our Native American history and discover the remarkable achievements they made.”

Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo echoed the message, stating, “I am proud to celebrate the culture and heritage of Native Americans who enrich the value of our Nation. During Native American Heritage Month, we honor the many contributions of Native American Floridians.”

Art Contest Details

All Florida students are eligible to participate. Students in grades K–3 may enter the art contest by submitting one original, two-dimensional piece of artwork reflecting this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, with each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.

Essay Contest Details

Students in grades 4–12 may enter the essay contest. Six winners will be chosen—two from each grade level group (4–5, 6–8, 9–12). Each winning essayist will receive a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $200 school-supply gift card. Essays must be written in English, no longer than 500 words, and focus on a Native American Floridian who has had a meaningful impact on the state’s history or culture.

Examples of suggested subjects include Betty Mae Tiger Jumper, the first woman elected Chair of the Seminole Tribe of Florida; Ulele, sometimes referred to as “Florida’s Timucuan Pocahontas”; Osceola, a prominent advocate for Seminole rights in the 1800s; and Noah Billie, a noted Seminole painter.

Excellence in Education Award

The Governor’s Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award is open to all full-time educators in Florida’s elementary, middle and high schools. Four winners will be selected. Nominations may be submitted by teachers, principals, parents, guardians or students. Winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida.

How to Enter

Contest entry forms and educator nomination forms may be submitted online or mailed to:

Volunteer Florida

Native American Heritage Month Committee

1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250

Tallahassee, Florida 32308

All entries must be received by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025. Additional information is available at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced Florida awards $30 million in grant funding to four specialty children’s hospitals in Florida to develop and improve access to clinical trials, advance treatment protocols, and discover cures for childhood cancer. Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Nemour’s Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, and Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville were each awarded $7.5 million.

“Since I became governor, Florida has invested more than $1 billion in cancer research and treatment—a 114% increase. We created the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator program within the Florida Department of Health this year to enhance cancer research throughout Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Four of Florida’s top children’s hospitals have received a total of $30 million in funding for their innovative proposals to help children and adolescents who are fighting cancer. By investing in statewide infrastructure for pediatric cancer initiatives, we aim to eliminate the need for Florida families to travel out of state for potentially life-saving experimental therapies and specialized care.”

The Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator was created in 2025 to further Florida efforts as a leader in cancer research and treatment. The Incubator is funded with $30 million and will focus on pediatric cancer in its first five-year funding cycle. While pediatric cancer accounts for just one percent of cases nationally, Florida’s pediatric cancer population is significant, with the state accounting for six percent of all new pediatric cancer cases in the U.S., thereby impacting thousands of children and families every year.

“Research Incubator investments to advance research, prevention, and treatment for pediatric cancer represents a meaningful step forward in our mission to improve outcomes, strengthen families, and ensure that every child has access to the most advanced care possible right here in Florida,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “I’m deeply grateful to Governor DeSantis for his unwavering leadership and commitment to advancing cancer research in Florida.”

“Thanks to the vision and leadership of First Lady Casey DeSantis, Florida continues to set the national standard for advancing adult and childhood cancer research and care,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A Ladapo. “Through the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator, we’re not only investing in science—we’re investing in hope for children and families across the state.”

The Incubator is part of Florida’s Cancer Connect Collaborative, an innovative model designed to accelerate research, share best practices, and turn data into actionable results. Guided by five pillars—Data, Best Practices, Innovation, Honesty, and Funding—the initiative brings together public and private partners to reshape cancer care delivery.

“Thanks to the leadership of First Lady and Governor DeSantis, Florida continues to make cancer research and treatment a top priority,” said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun Harris. “The Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator is a bold step forward, beginning with pediatric cancer research. We look forward to seeing the strides made among the awardees and the collaboration that will accelerate breakthroughs, improve access to therapies, and offer hope to families across our state.”

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~ 24 of 26 economic development awards will go to small and rural communities ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, FloridaCommerce announced the award of more than $1.5 million through the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) and Competitive Florida Partnership programs. The funding will support 26 Florida communities—including 24 small and rural communities—in developing and implementing plans to drive local economic growth.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to support Floridians in building strong, resilient communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Since 2019, FloridaCommerce has awarded more than $7.6 million through the CPTA program to over 110 communities—empowering many of Florida’s small and rural communities to advance strategic economic initiatives and strengthen their local economies for future growth.”

The CPTA grant program seeks to strengthen communities through resilient, long-term economic development strategies and promotes innovative planning solutions to protect Florida's natural resources. Similarly, the Competitive Florida Partnership program supports communities in developing plans to attract new businesses and create workforce opportunities that promote partnerships, community design and a viable economy.

The following communities will receive funding through the CPTA grant program:

  • Bradford County ($75,000) – to create an Economic Development Strategy, outlining objectives, tactics, resources and marketing to promote county opportunities.
  • Opportunity Florida ($47,575) – to conduct an economic analysis study in the following rural counties: Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Wakulla, North Walton and Washington.
  • Apalachee Regional Planning Council ($74,231.82) – to complete a multi-county Strategic Sites Inventory to prepare for industrial reshoring and business recruitment in Calhoun, Gadsden and Liberty Counties.
  • City of Crystal River ($75,000) – to develop a strategic and economic development plan for the city of Crystal River in Citrus County.
  • City of Keystone Heights ($60,000) – to review and update the comprehensive plan for the city of Keystone Heights in Clay County.
  • DeSoto County ($75,000) – to update the county plan to expand investment and tourism opportunities.
  • Central Florida Regional Planning Council ($75,000) – to create the Heartland Agricultural Land Use Conversion Study to enhance planning, coordination, and resilience in the following counties: DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Okeechobee and Polk.
  • Town of Cross City ($75,000) – to update land development regulations and zoning atlas for the town of Cross City in Dixie County.
  • Town of Horseshoe Beach ($75,000) – to implement Phase II of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, focusing on drainage, housing, and capital projects in Dixie County.
  • Gadsden County ($75,000) – to develop a Strategic Sites Inventory to identify and prepare sites for industrial and manufacturing growth.
  • Glades County ($55,000) – to update land development regulations and create fact sheets, checklists, and revised applications.
  • Hardee County ($60,000) – to create a Mass Casualty Incident and Reunification Plan to strengthen emergency medical response.
  • Town of Sneads ($45,000) – to support the development of a downtown revitalization and development plan for the Sneads "Old Downtown" area in Jackson County.
  • City of Clermont ($50,000) – to update the city plan to guide infrastructure, economic development and tourism strategies for the city of Clermont in Lake County.
  • City of Cedar Key ($75,000) – to advance shoreline and infrastructure protection strategies for the city of Cedar Key in Levy County.
  • Town of Greenville ($48,500) – to conduct a housing analysis and update economic and comprehensive plans for the town of Greenville in Madison County.
  • Village of Indiantown ($74,275) – to finalize the inaugural plan and add an economic development element for the village of Indiantown in Martin County.
  • City of Crestview ($50,000) – to develop a Strategic Economic and Development Plan to assess workforce, land-use assets, and branding, with clear goals and implementation steps for the city of Crestview in Okaloosa County.
  • Okeechobee County ($40,400) – to update the land development code.
  • Town of Loxahatchee Groves ($75,000) – to develop a comprehensive strategy for growth and resilience for the town of Loxahatchee in Palm Beach County.
  • Town of Kenneth City ($40,000) – to create an economic development strategy to strengthen commercial corridors and small businesses for the town of Kenneth City in Pinellas County.
  • City of Fort Meade ($45,000) – to update the Community Redevelopment Plan to assess progress and set future priorities for the city of Fort Meade in Polk County.
  • City of Palatka ($75,000) ­– to advance the Gateway Redevelopment Plan for the former Port Consolidated site, ensuring sustainable reuse for the city of Palatka in Putnam County.
  • Taylor County ($75,000) – to create an Economic Development Strategic Plan.
The following communities will receive funding through the Competitive Florida Partnership grant program:
  • Franklin County ($32,930) – to develop a comprehensive economic development strategy aimed to strengthen the local economy, reduce retail leakage and increase job creation in the commercial sector.
  • Hardee County ($32,930) – to develop a master plan for the county’s Government Center and Resiliency Hub, a facility that will provide support during emergencies, acting as a central point of contact for accessing services, building community, and preparing for and recovering from disruptions.

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Managing glaucoma requires a commitment to a daily routine. Because glaucoma is often “silent” (meaning you won't feel your eye pressure rising), the medications are your primary defense against permanent vision loss.

William Garst HS
Here are five essential things every patient should know about glaucoma medications:

  1. Consistency is Your Most Powerful Tool

Glaucoma eye drops only work for a specific window of time (usually 12 to 24 hours). If you skip a dose, your eye pressure can spike, causing “silent” damage to the optic nerve.

  • The Goal: Maintain a steady level of medication in your eye around the clock.
  • Pro-Tip: Tie your drop schedule to a daily habit, like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee, to ensure you never miss a dose.
  1. Proper Technique Prevents “Body-Wide” Side Effects

Many patients don't realize that eye drops can enter the bloodstream through the tear ducts, potentially affecting your heart or lungs. You can minimize this using a technique called Punctal Occlusion:

  • After putting in a drop, close your eyes gently (do not squeeze or blink rapidly).
  • Use your finger to press firmly on the inner corner of your eye (near the bridge of your nose) for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • This keeps the medicine in your eye and prevents it from draining into your throat and bloodstream.
  1. The “Five-Minute Rule” for Multiple Drops

If your doctor prescribes more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5 minutes between them.

  • Why? Your eye can only hold about one-sixth of a single drop at a time. If you put the second drop in too quickly, it will simply wash out the first one before it has a chance to be absorbed, making your treatment less effective.
  1. Side Effects Are Common — and Manageable

Don't be alarmed if your eyes sting, turn red, or feel “gritty” when you first start a new medication.

  • Expect Local Changes: Some drops (Prostaglandins) can cause your eyelashes to grow longer or even permanently darken the color of your iris (the colored part of your eye).
  • Monitor Systemic Effects: Beta-blocker drops can sometimes slow your heart rate or worsen asthma. Always tell your eye doctor about your full medical history, especially heart or lung conditions.
  • Refrigeration Trick: If you have trouble feeling if the drop actually landed in your eye, try keeping the bottle in the fridge. The cold sensation makes it much easier to tell if you’ve “hit the target.”
  1. They Don't Make Your Vision Better (But They Keep It)

One of the hardest parts of glaucoma treatment is that the medication doesn't improve your sight or make your eyes feel better — it simply preserves the vision you still have.

  • Stay the Course: You may feel like the drops aren't “doing anything” because you don't see a difference, but they are working behind the scenes to prevent blindness.
  • Never Stop Suddenly: Abruptly stopping glaucoma medication can cause a dangerous “rebound” spike in eye pressure.

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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William Garst HSEveryone taking prescription medications should be aware of essential safety practices. Here are six tips to help ensure you are taking your medicine correctly and safely:

1. Maintain a Comprehensive Medication List

Keep an up-to-date list of everything you take, and share it with every healthcare provider you see (doctors, specialists, dentists, and pharmacists).

  • Include: All prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements.
  • Detail: The name, dosage, how often you take it, and the reason it was prescribed.
  • Why it matters: This is the most crucial step to prevent dangerous drug-to-drug interactions, to ensure you don't accidentally overdose on two products with the same active ingredient, and to help your doctor avoid prescribing medicine you shouldn't take.

2. Know the "Five W's" of Each New Drug

Before you leave the doctor's office or the pharmacy, make sure you know the following for every new prescription:

  • What is the name of the drug and what is it for?
  • When should I take it (e.g., morning, night, with food, on an empty stomach)?
  • What are the most common side effects, and when should I call the doctor?
  • What foods, drinks (like alcohol or grapefruit juice), or other medications should I avoid?
  • Why am I taking this (What is the goal of the therapy)?

3. Take Your Medication Exactly as Prescribed

Consistency is key to the drug's effectiveness and your safety.

  • Follow Directions: Take the exact dose at the exact time(s) specified. Do not skip doses, and never take a larger dose because you think it will work faster.
  • Do Not Stop Early: Finish the full course of a prescription (especially antibiotics), even if you start to feel better. Never stop taking a maintenance drug on your own; always consult your doctor first.
  • Ask Before Modifying: Do not crush, cut, or chew tablets unless your pharmacist or doctor specifically says it is safe, as this can affect how the drug is absorbed or release the medicine too quickly.

4. Use a Single Pharmacy

Whenever possible, fill all your prescriptions at the same pharmacy.

  • Interaction Check: This allows your pharmacist—who is a medication expert—to have a complete and centralized record of your profile and automatically check for potential drug interactions or dosage conflicts.
  • Ask Questions: Your pharmacist is your best resource for practical advice on when and how to take a medication and what common side effects to expect.

5. Store and Dispose of Medication Safely

Improper storage can ruin the drug's effectiveness, and improper disposal can lead to danger.

  • Storage: Keep most medications in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. The bathroom medicine cabinet is often too humid for proper storage.
  • Security: Always store medications, especially controlled substances and pain relievers, in a secure place out of reach and out of sight of children, pets, and visitors.
  • Disposal: Never flush medicine down the toilet or throw it in the trash unless the label specifically instructs you to. Find a drug take-back program or a community disposal site (often at local police departments or pharmacies) for safe disposal of unused or expired drugs.

6. Never Share or Borrow Prescription Medication

Medications are prescribed based on an individual's specific medical condition, weight, allergies, and other concurrent medications.

  • For You Only: Never take medicine prescribed to another person, even if you have the same symptoms. What is helpful for one person could be dangerous or deadly for another.
  • Do Not Share: Never give your prescription to a family member or friend. If you have unused medication, dispose of it safely.

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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Sept 15 – Oct. 15 is the nationwide celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” reminding us that our nation’s strength comes from the diverse people who call it home and the shared commitment to build a better future together.

From the arts and education to business and public service, Hispanic Floridians continue to enrich every aspect of life in our state. Their leadership, creativity, and dedication exemplify the power of community and the enduring belief that opportunity should be within reach for all.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations’ (FCHR) mission is to promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination by investigating allegations of discrimination in housing, public accommodations, employment, and state whistleblower retaliation as well as educating Floridians about their rights and opportunities. Through our diligent work, we continue to build a Florida where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. For more information or to file a complaint, contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations at (850) 488-7082 or visit www.FCHR.MyFlorida.com.

This month, and throughout the year, we honor the past while inspiring the future, by recognizing the collective heritage that connects us, celebrating the diversity that strengthens us, and reaffirming our commitment to fairness for every Floridian.

Cheyanne Costilla, Executive Director

Florida Commission on Human Relations

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The history of vitamin K is a story of a single discovery that later expanded to include a family of related compounds, each with distinct roles in the body. The journey from initial observation to a detailed understanding of vitamin K1 and William Garst HSK2 spans several decades and involves multiple scientists.

The Initial Discovery of Vitamin K

The story begins in the late 1920s with Danish biochemist Henrik Dam.

  • 1929: Dam was conducting experiments on chickens, feeding them a diet that was deficient in cholesterol and fat. After a few weeks, he noticed that the chickens developed a mysterious bleeding disorder, where their blood was slow to clot.
  • 1935: Dam concluded that a new, fat-soluble vitamin was missing from the chickens' diet. He named this substance “Koagulations-Vitamin,” which is German and Danish for “coagulation vitamin.” This is where the letter “K” comes from.
  • 1939: American biochemist Edward Doisy and his team at St. Louis University isolated and determined the chemical structure of the primary plant-based form of the vitamin, which they named phylloquinone. This substance would later be officially named Vitamin K1.

For their work on the discovery and chemical nature of vitamin K, Dam and Doisy were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1943.

Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

  • Source: From the very beginning, it was clear that the "anti-hemorrhagic" factor came from plant sources, particularly green, leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.
  • Function: Early research, and the Nobel Prize, focused on its essential role in blood coagulation. Vitamin K1 acts as a crucial cofactor for an enzyme that "activates" several clotting factors in the liver, including prothrombin (Factor II), Factor VII, Factor IX, and Factor X. Without this activation, these proteins cannot function properly, leading to uncontrolled bleeding.
  • Modern Understanding: Vitamin K1's role in blood clotting remains its most well-known and clinically important function. It is used medically to treat bleeding disorders, and is routinely given to newborns to prevent a condition called Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB).

Vitamin K2 (Menaquinones)

The story of vitamin K2 is more recent and has led to a re-evaluation of the entire vitamin K family.

  • Discovery of a Second Form: Soon after the discovery of vitamin K1, scientists realized that there was another form of vitamin K. This second form, found in animal products and produced by bacteria, was chemically different. It was named menaquinone and collectively referred to as Vitamin K2. Unlike K1, which has a single chemical structure, K2 is a family of related compounds, designated as MK-4, MK-7, MK-9, etc., based on the length of their side chain.
  • Japanese Fermented Foods: A major breakthrough in the understanding of K2 came from research into the traditional Japanese food natto, a dish of fermented soybeans. Scientists discovered that natto was an incredibly rich source of a long-chain menaquinone, specifically MK-7. This led to a boom in research on K2's health benefits.
  • Beyond Blood Clotting: While K1 is primarily used by the liver for blood coagulation, researchers found that K2 has a different fate in the body. It is preferentially used by other tissues, especially bone and arterial tissues.
  • The “Calcium Paradox”: A key aspect of modern K2 research is its role in “calcium trafficking.” Scientists have discovered that K2 activates proteins like osteocalcin in bones, which helps bind calcium and integrate it into the bone matrix. At the same time, K2 activates Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), a protein that prevents calcium from building up in soft tissues like arteries. This led to the theory that K2 may play a significant role in both bone health (preventing osteoporosis) and cardiovascular health (preventing arterial calcification).

Summary of Key Differences and Modern Research

Feature

Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

Vitamin K2 (Menaquinones)

Primary Source

Green leafy vegetables

Fermented foods (natto, cheese), animal products (egg yolks, some meats), and gut bacteria

Primary Function

Blood coagulation (clotting)

Bone health, cardiovascular health (preventing arterial calcification)

Historical Focus

The first form of the vitamin discovered; initial research focused entirely on this form for its anti-hemorrhagic effects.

A later discovery, with its distinct functions only becoming widely known and studied in the last few decades.

Chemical Structure

A single compound (phylloquinone)

A family of compounds (menaquinones), denoted as MK-4, MK-7, etc.

The history of vitamin K is a testament to how scientific understanding evolves. What began as a single discovery of a “coagulation vitamin” has expanded to encompass a complex family of nutrients with far-reaching effects on human health.

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 First Recorded Clinical Trial in 1747 ~

The history of Vitamin C is closely linked to the understanding and eventual conquest of scurvy, a debilitating and often fatal disease that William Garst HSplagued sailors on long voyages for centuries.

Early Observations

As early as the 15th century, it was noted that certain foods, particularly citrus fruits, had a curative effect on scurvy. Vasco da Gama's voyages, for instance, observed this link.

In 1747, James Lind, a British naval surgeon, conducted a controlled experiment demonstrating that citrus fruits effectively prevented scurvy. He compared various treatments among sailors with scurvy and found that only those receiving oranges and lemons recovered. This is perhaps, the first recorded clinical trial.

Despite Lind's groundbreaking work, it took several decades for the British Navy to mandate citrus fruit or juice as a regular provision for sailors, earning them the nickname “limeys.”

The Dawn of Vitamin Research:

In 1912, Casimir Funk introduced the concept of “vitamins” as essential dietary components. The anti-scorbutic factor was soon recognized as a water-soluble substance, initially called “water-soluble C.”

Isolation and Identification:

In 1928, Hungarian scientist Albert Szent-Györgyi isolated a substance from animal adrenal glands, naming it “hexuronic acid.” He suspected it might be the anti-scorbutic factor.

Around the same time, in 1932, American biochemist Charles Glen King also isolated vitamin C in his laboratory and concluded it was the same as Szent-Györgyi's hexuronic acid. There was some dispute over who made the definitive connection first, possibly due to communication delays.

Working independently, Szent-Györgyi and his colleague Joseph Svirbely conducted experiments on guinea pigs (which, like humans, cannot synthesize vitamin C) and proved that hexuronic acid was indeed the anti-scorbutic factor. They renamed it “ascorbic acid,” meaning “anti-scurvy.”

Structural Determination and Synthesis:

In 1933, British chemist Norman Haworth determined the chemical structure of vitamin C. Haworth and Szent-Györgyi jointly proposed the name “ascorbic acid”

Both Szent-Györgyi and Haworth were awarded Nobel Prizes in 1937 for their work on vitamin C. Szent-Györgyi received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discoveries concerning biological combustion, with specific reference to vitamin C, and Haworth received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on the constitution of carbohydrates and vitamin C.

Further Discoveries and Applications:

Szent-Györgyi continued his research, famously identifying paprika as an exceptionally rich and easily accessible source of vitamin C, allowing for its production in larger quantities.

Since its discovery, vitamin C has been extensively studied for its various roles in human health, including its function as an antioxidant, its involvement in collagen synthesis, immune function, and iron absorption.

Today, vitamin C is recognized as an essential nutrient, and its deficiency is known to cause scurvy, characterized by symptoms like weakness, bleeding gums, and poor wound healing.

Research continues to explore the potential benefits of vitamin C in preventing and treating various diseases.

The history of vitamin C is a compelling story of scientific investigation driven by the need to combat a devastating disease. From empirical observations to isolation, structural determination, and synthesis, the journey to understanding and utilizing this essential nutrient has significantly impacted human 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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As a concerned citizen of Florida, I am writing to express my deep alarm over the recent decision to eliminate all vaccine mandates in our state. Vaccines have long been one of the most effective and life-saving public health tools we have. Rolling back these protections threatens to reverse decades of progress against diseases like measles, mumps, and polio — illnesses that vaccines had nearly eliminated.

This decision will not affect all Floridians equally. Black and Brown communities, already facing disproportionate rates of chronic illness, limited access to care, and systemic health inequities, will bear the heaviest burden. Without the safeguard of mandates, these communities are at greater risk of disease outbreaks and preventable deaths.

I am also concerned about the issue of trust. Our nation’s history of medical neglect and mistreatment of Black and Brown populations has left a deep scar of mistrust in the healthcare system. Abrupt policy changes such as this risk eroding fragile progress in building confidence and could reinforce skepticism toward public health guidance.

Beyond the health risks, there are serious financial and economic consequences. Preventable outbreaks lead to increased healthcare costs, hospitalizations, and strain on already overburdened medical systems. Families who cannot afford time off work or unexpected medical bills will be disproportionately harmed. Local businesses and schools may also face disruptions if vaccine-preventable diseases reemerge, causing lost productivity and economic instability. In short, what may appear to be a rollback of regulation could instead create higher costs for families, communities, and the state as a whole.

While individuals should have the right to make informed decisions — including the ability to opt out under certain circumstances — public health policy must balance personal choice with the protection of children, immunocompromised individuals, and entire communities. Without mandates or robust equity-driven alternatives, our most vulnerable neighbors will be left unprotected.

Faith and cultural values are also central to many families’ health decisions. Public health efforts should engage and respect these perspectives. But removing mandates outright, without strong outreach, education, and access initiatives, will send us backward — leaving communities exposed to diseases that science has already taught us how to prevent.

I urge you to reconsider this decision. If mandates are to be removed, Florida must implement strong, equity-focused measures to ensure that every Floridian — regardless of race, income, or faith — is protected. Public health policy must be guided not only by science and fairness but also by a recognition of the enormous economic and financial strain that preventable outbreaks place on families and our state.

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

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BOWLING GREEN, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded nearly $223 million to expand broadband internet access to Floridians, including small and rural communities. This funding includes $135 million in state funding through the Broadband Opportunity Program and $86 million in federal funds through the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program. Awards through the Broadband Opportunity Program will support 54 projects in 33 Florida counties for broadband internet expansion that will provide internet to over 27,000 unserved residential, educational, agricultural, business and community locations. Awards through the Multipurpose Facility Program will support 29 community infrastructure projects including health clinics, schools and workforce development programs providing internet to Floridians across 18 counties. To learn more, click here. 
 
This funding comes as the Federal Communications Commission recently enacted new rules relating to private companies’ broadband expansion efforts, aimed at preventing “digital discrimination of access to broadband services based on income level, race, ethnicity, color, religion or national origin.” Through rules like this, the Biden administration is directly disincentivizing private companies from providing services like broadband internet to rural communities because they don’t meet certain diversity quotas. Florida will not enforce these discriminatory strings attached to federal funding that drive investment away from small and rural communities that are already underserved. 
 
"Connecting Florida’s small and rural communities to broadband internet will help them find jobs, access education resources and expand their businesses,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. "We will continue to make investments in broadband internet that support long-term growth for our communities, without federally imposed strings attached."
 
“Under Governor DeSantis' leadership, Florida's economy has grown at a persistent pace. Today's strategic awards help maintain Florida’s forward momentum," said FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly. "By connecting Floridians with centrally located community hubs, residents have increased access to find their next professional opportunity, upskill for future jobs and access telemedicine resources through a steady broadband internet connection."
 
“Thank you, Governor DeSantis, for your leadership and for investing in our community,” said Representative Kaylee Tuck. “The need for reliable broadband access has never been more prevalent, and the strain on rural communities like Hardee County has never been felt more than it is today. This investment will be incredible for our area.” 
 
Today’s awards build on Governor DeSantis’ earlier announcement of more than $226 million awarded for projects across 53 Florida counties, connecting more than 250,000 homes and businesses through the Broadband Opportunity Program. Additionally, Governor 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.
 
The federally funded Multipurpose Community Facilities Program supports the construction and rehabilitation of community facilities that provide important resources to Floridians to support workforce development, educational opportunities and access to healthcare in small and rural communities. Projects include community centers, health clinics, schools and workforce development programs serving Floridians across 18 counties.
 
Administered by FloridaCommerce, the Broadband Opportunity Program funds the installation and deployment of broadband internet infrastructure in unserved Florida communities, providing valuable access to telehealth, economic, educational and workforce development opportunities to offer a brighter future for all Floridians.
 
For a list of projects awarded through the Multipurpose Community Facilities Projects Program, CLICK HERE.
   
For a list of projects awarded through the Broadband Opportunity Program, CLICK HERE.
 
For more information on Florida’s broadband initiatives, visit the Office of Broadband's webpage.

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