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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

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ALACHUA COUNTY – As the 2025–26 academic year gets underway, Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) is rolling out a suite of new communication tools aimed at streamlining connections between families, schools, and the broader community.

The district introduced a redesigned website earlier this summer at alachuaschools.net, along with a new mass notification system called Alerts. The changes followed the expiration of contracts with the previous vendors for the website and messaging service on June 30.

On Aug. 13, two additional platforms were launched to expand school-to-home communication.

The first is the Alachua County Public Schools mobile app, available for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app offers one-stop access to school messages, calendars, lunch menus, and other resources. Users can choose to follow specific schools and enable notifications to receive timely updates.

The second is Rooms, a secure, two-way messaging feature built into both the mobile app and district website. Rooms allows families to communicate directly with teachers, principals, coaches, and club sponsors. It supports class announcements, team updates, and private conversations in one platform, reducing the need for multiple apps or logins.

Notifications from Rooms are sent automatically by text message, even to families who have not downloaded the app. The system includes safety and moderation features designed to meet district standards for security and accessibility.

“By bringing everything into one clear and consistent system, we are making it easier for families to stay engaged with their child’s education,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kamela Patton said. “We are excited to offer a more connected and user-friendly experience this school year.”

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ALACHUA – Dayna Williams, City of Alachua Commissioner and North Florida Regional Director of Government Relations for Waste Pro, has been elected vice chair of the Board of Directors for Recycle Florida Today, Inc. (RFT), the state’s leading recycling and environmental management association.

Williams’ election reflects her commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. RFT represents professionals from across Florida's public, private, nonprofit, and institutional sectors, serving as a central hub for recycling advocacy, education, and policy development.

“This appointment is a testament to Dayna's dedication and expertise in the field of recycling and environmental management,” Waste Pro said in a statement.

Heather Armstrong, executive director of Recycle Florida Today, praised Williams’ appointment to the leadership team.

“I’m excited to have Dayna on our Board of Directors. Dayna brings extensive industry expertise to our leadership team,” Armstrong said. “Coupled with her passion for service, dedication to community, and drive, her unique skills help guide our association and strengthen the focus on our public-private partnerships.”

In addition to her work with Waste Pro, Williams serves as the City Commissioner for Seat 3 in the City of Alachua and is actively involved in several civic organizations. Her public service and volunteerism have earned her multiple honors, including recognition as a Melvin Jones Fellow by the Lions Club International Foundation in 2023 and the Distinguished Citizenship Award from the Gainesville Elks Lodge in 2022.

She was also named a 2025 Fierce Award honoree by HOME Magazine of Gainesville. The annual Fierce Awards spotlight influential and inspiring women leaders throughout the Greater Gainesville region.

RFT advocates for stronger recycling practices and legislative support at both the local and state levels. With Williams in a key leadership role, the organization expects to expand its reach and impact through strengthened public-private collaboration.

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TALLAHASSEE – Florida families preparing for the new school year will get a financial break throughout August thanks to the state’s extended Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which runs from Friday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025. The tax holiday was expanded under Florida’s sweeping tax relief package signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year, which also includes exemptions for disaster preparedness, summer recreation, and energy-efficient appliances.

The monthlong tax holiday applies to a wide range of school-related purchases, including clothing, footwear, backpacks, school supplies, personal computers, and accessories. No state sales tax will be charged on eligible items that fall within specific price limits, allowing Floridians to stretch their back-to-school budgets.

The Florida Department of Revenue provides detailed guidelines on tax-exempt items. Examples include:

  • Clothing, footwear, and backpacks costing $100 or less per item.
  • School supplies priced at $50 or less per item.
  • Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less.
  • Personal computers and accessories for non-commercial use, priced at $1,500 or less.

Local business owners across Florida are preparing for the increased traffic and are hopeful the extended window will give families more flexibility to shop small.

While big-box retailers typically see a surge during this period, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is urging consumers to make a deliberate effort to support locally owned businesses during the sales tax break.

“This year’s annual Back to School Sales Tax Holiday is extended for the entire month of August and is a great opportunity to support Florida’s small businesses,” said Bill Herrle, NFIB Florida Executive Director. “Small businesses are the engine of the state’s economy, and when you shop locally, you’re keeping your hard-earned money in the community and strengthening the local economy.”

For many families, the tax holiday is not only about saving money, but also about investing in their communities. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 99.8% of Florida’s businesses are small businesses, employing millions of workers statewide.

By shopping at neighborhood stores, consumers contribute to job growth, community development, and a resilient local economy.

“Back-to-school shopping is a major annual event,” Herrle said. “It can also be a reminder that our dollars have power — power to support neighbors, strengthen schools, and grow our towns.”

Consumers can find more details about eligible items and exemptions by visiting the Florida Department of Revenue’s website.

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JONESVILLE – A 71-year-old Jonesville resident was arrested July 28, 2025, on 18 felony charges after an investigation led authorities to uncover nearly 60,000 files of child sexual abuse material at his home, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

The case originated on Nov. 9, 2024, when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip reporting that an image depicting child sexual exploitation had been uploaded to a reverse image search tool. The image showed a young boy, estimated to be between 6 and 8 years old, in a sexually explicit context with an older girl.

A subpoena issued by the Gainesville Police Department to Cox Communications later linked the upload to an IP address registered to Gerald Roy Morris, who resides in the Jonesville area west of Gainesville. The case was subsequently transferred to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies executed a search warrant at Morris’s residence on June 11. According to the report, Morris acknowledged awareness of the image search platform but denied using it or possessing any illegal content. He also said he had no visitors on the day the image was uploaded and indicated that neighbors would not have had access to his internet connection.

Investigators reported that a forensic review of a computer used by Morris uncovered 50,510 files containing child sexual abuse material, including 384 videos. The files primarily featured prepubescent females, ranging from infants to children around 10 years old. Officials noted the materials included depictions of severe abuse, with some files showing graphic acts involving very young children.

In addition to the digital content found on the computer, 19 discs labeled as blank and located on Morris’s desk reportedly contained another 9,240 illegal files, bringing the total to 59,750.

Authorities said Morris had viewed some of the content as recently as the day before the warrant was executed.

An arrest warrant was issued on July 24 by Judge James Colaw. Morris surrendered to authorities at the Alachua County Jail on July 28.

He is charged with one count of transmission of child pornography and 17 counts of possession. Bail was set at $1.8 million, the amount specified in the warrant. Judge Meshon Rawls upheld that amount at the time of booking.

Morris’s attorney has filed a motion to reduce bail, citing his client's age, reported medical issues, and long-term residency in the Jonesville community. The motion states that Morris, a retired general contractor, intends to remain in the area and attend all scheduled court proceedings.

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MICANOPY – Alachua County will host a free agritourism workshop on Thursday, Aug. 21, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center, 210 S.E. 134th Avenue, in Micanopy.

The half-day event is open to farmers, ranchers, landowners, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in exploring or expanding agritourism opportunities on their property or within the community.

Workshop sessions will focus on key topics including zoning, permitting, fire safety, marketing, and collaborative promotion. Presentations will be led by staff from Alachua County Growth Management, Fire Rescue, and Tourism and Economic Development, who will provide guidance on land use regulations, public safety considerations and tourism marketing strategies.

Participants will also hear from local agricultural operators during a panel discussion, which will highlight real-world experiences, lessons learned and approaches to launching or sustaining agritourism ventures.

“This event is an opportunity to bring operators together to talk through real challenges and successes,” said Bailey McClellan, the county’s agricultural economic development coordinator. “Whether someone is just getting started or looking to grow, this workshop will offer tools and connections that can support their next step.”

The agenda includes a session on Florida’s agritourism statutes and how they apply under Alachua County’s zoning and permitting framework. Attendees will also learn about marketing support available through Visit Gainesville, Alachua County.

To RSVP or request additional information, contact Bailey McClellan at 352-275-4297 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission unanimously approved a new two-year law enforcement services agreement with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) during its July 28, 2025, regular meeting, extending contracted police services through Sept. 30, 2027.

The current agreement, which began in January 2025 following the election of Sheriff Chad Scott, is set to expire at the end of the current fiscal year on Sept. 30. The updated contract continues the existing structure but introduces several adjustments.

The agreement also maintains the current 3.75 percent annual price escalator. For fiscal year 2025, the total contract cost is set at $1,005,396. All other major terms from the existing contract remain unchanged, including patrol coverage, response services, and investigations within city limits.

Key among the contract is inclusion of a school traffic deputy assigned to the intersection of Southwest 15th Street and U.S. Highway 27/State Road 41. The deputy will serve during school mornings from 7 to 9 a.m. on all student attendance days. The annual cost for this added service is approximately $32,000.

City officials indicated that the school traffic coverage addresses long-standing concerns related to morning congestion near Newberry schools.

The commission’s approval was unanimous, and no public comment was raised in opposition during the meeting.

The agreement with ACSO was one of several items on the city’s agenda, which included setting the preliminary millage rate and holding hearings on annexation ordinances and community updates.

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 The following is a press release provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff.

Aug. 14, 2025 — Consumers value Acerola, also called the Barbados cherry, for its health benefits, and it thrives in the Caribbean, Mexico, Brazil and other parts of Central and South America.

University of Florida researchers are working with a Brazilian colleague to see if they can advance the genetic understanding of this nutritious fruit and grow it in the Sunshine State.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that only 1 in 10 American adults meets the recommended fruit and vegetable intake, making the availability of more nutritious fruits helpful. Some people grow Barbados cherry trees in their yards in Florida – and eat the nutritious fruit.

The cherries are rich sources of vitamin C, carotenoids, anthocyanins and phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, they can provide over 1,800% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C in just one cup.

To help bring consumers all that nutrition, scientists with the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) are evaluating the genetic diversity of acerola and adapting cultivation practices to local conditions.

“These nutritional benefits have elevated acerola to superfood status, making it marketable for fresh consumption, desserts, supplements or juice” said Felipe Ferrao, who’s leading the project for UF/IFAS. “They can contain up to 100 times more vitamin C than oranges, making them a powerful candidate for enhancing and supplementing our diet.”

As part of this effort, scientists are trying to grow acerola in three major field trials around Florida: at the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Center in Citra, at a farm in Pierson and at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) in Homestead.

Through these trials, researchers are trying to find out if different types of acerola perform well under varying climates, soil types and management systems. Their research will lay the groundwork for future production across the state.

"Our central goal is to determine the best regions and practices for growing acerola, while understanding how climate conditions influence fruit quality and nutritional value,” Ferrao said.

Beyond its nutritional benefits, acerola also has the potential to help mitigate the ongoing crisis in citrus production and become an alternative crop for local producers.

“As citrus and avocado growers struggle, it’s critical that UF/IFAS help farmers grow more emerging crops,” said Ferrao a UF/IFAS assistant research scientist in horticultural sciences. He used the juice industry as an example. “With approximately 90% of oranges grown in Florida used for making orange juice, growers could take advantage of the existing citrus juice infrastructure, make acerola juice that is delicious, refreshing and nutritious.”

Among others, Ferrao is working with Patricio Muñoz and Ali Sarkhosh -- associate professors of horticultural sciences at the main UF campus in Gainesville -- and Jonathan Crane, a professor and tropical fruit Extension specialist and Jugpreet Singh, an assistant professor of tropical fruit breeding and genetics – both at TREC.

This research also includes a partnership with Flavio França, a researcher and acerola specialist from the Embrapa Semiarido, in Brazil.

"While Brazil is the top producer of acerola, the University of Florida has an important role,” Franca said, citing the ‘Florida Sweet’ acerola, which was grown at TREC in the 1950s.

The research group believes that the integration of better management, genomic tools and breeding techniques can accelerate the identification of acerola plants that meet the current demand of fruits with unique flavor attributes, higher yield and high nutritional values.

“We envision acerola could as a viable crop for agricultural future, contributing to economic growth and food security,” Ferrao said.

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 The following is a press release provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff.

Grants Part of More Than $3.5 Million Awarded to Youth Literacy Programs Across the Country

GOODLETTSVILLE, TENNESSEE  – Aug. 14, 2025 – Today, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation (DGLF) announced the award of more than $190,000 in youth literacy grants to Florida non-profit organizations, libraries and schools. The funds are part of more than $3.5 million recently awarded across the country for recipients to use the funds for professional development opportunities and/or to purchase books, technology, equipment or materials to help extend a brighter future for K-12 students.

“As the need for accessible educational materials and resources for our country’s youth continues, we are proud to provide vital support to local literacy programs,” shared Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “The Dollar General Literacy Foundation believes the investment in the education of a young student is an investment in a brighter future. We are grateful to the local schools, libraries and non-profit organizations that are serving students and helping them thrive.”

Florida recipients are below, and a comprehensive list of grant recipients may be found online at www.dgliteracy.org. The Florida grants are expected to positively impact the lives of more than 24,500 individuals in the state.

Applications for the 2026 Dollar General Literacy Foundation grant cycle supporting youth, family, summer and adult literacy programs will be available at www.dgliteracy.org in January 2026. These grants aim to support schools, libraries, and non-profit organizations within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center in implementing new literacy initiatives or expanding existing ones. Grant applications may be found online at http://www.dgliteracy.org.

To shine an additional light on literacy, the Foundation recently launched its sixth annual The Yellow Glasses Project. Now through International Literacy Day on September 8 (or while supplies last), DG customers can purchase yellow sunglasses for $2 each at participating DG stores across the country to benefit the DGLF.

Florida recipients include:

City
Organization Name
  Grant Amount
Apopka Piedmont Lakes Middle School  $             4,000
Boca Raton ROOTS AND WINGS INC  $             5,000
Davenport Restoration Apostolic Truth Ministries  $             5,000
Destin Destin Library  $             4,000
Fort Lauderdale Jack and Jill Children's Center Inc  $             5,000
Fort Walton Beach Children in Crisis, Inc.  $             4,000
Gainesville PEAK Literacy  $             3,710
Gainesville Children Beyond Our Borders, Inc.  $             4,880
Hobe Sound Boys & Girls Club of Martin County, Inc.  $             5,000
Hollywood The Quest Center  $             4,000
Immokalee Guadalupe Center, Inc.  $             5,000
Inverness Citrus County Education Foundation  $             4,000
Jacksonville Icon Preparatory School Jacksonville  $             4,000
Kissimmee Partin Settlement Elementary  $             3,000
Lake City Westside Elementary School  $             4,000
Lakeland United Way of Central Florida, Inc.  $             4,000
Melbourne Space Coast Discovery  $             5,000
Miami Hope for Miami  $             4,865
Miami Uplift Literacy, Inc  $             5,000
Naples New Horizons of Southwest Florida, Inc.  $             5,000
Naples Grace Place for Children and Families, Inc.  $             5,000
Odessa Chapter One NFP  $          50,000
Orlando Pineloch Elementary  $             3,000
Orlando Pinewood Elementary  $             3,000
Orlando Lake Gem Elementary  $             3,500
Panama City Bay Haven Charter Academy  $             5,000
Pembroke Park Koinonia Community Development Inc (KCDI) - Mimi's Learning Center K-12  $             4,000
Pensacola C.A. Weis Elementary School  $             3,000
Saint Augustine St. Johns County Education Foundation d/b/a INK! Investing in Kids  $             5,000
Saint Cloud Saint Cloud Elementary School  $             3,000
Saint Petersburg Family Center on Deafness, Inc.  $             4,955
Tampa Hillsborough Education Foundation  $             5,000
West Palm Beach St. Ann Catholic School  $             4,500
Winter Park Conductive Education Center of Orlando, Inc.  $             4,000
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TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed Kristine Van Vorst of Gainesville to serve as a judge on the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Moseley.


JudgeVanVorstThe Eighth Judicial Circuit serves Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties. The court handles a wide range of cases, including major criminal trials, civil disputes exceeding $50,000, family law matters, probate, juvenile cases, and appeals from county courts.

Van Vorst has served as an Alachua County Court judge since 2017, presiding over misdemeanor criminal cases, county civil matters, traffic infractions, and small claims disputes. Prior to her election to the county bench, she worked as a general magistrate for the Eighth Judicial Circuit, where she handled cases referred by circuit judges, including family law and child support enforcement proceedings.

A double graduate of the University of Florida, Van Vorst earned both her bachelor’s degree and juris doctor from the school. Her legal career in Gainesville spans more than two decades, with experience in both the public and private sectors before joining the judiciary.

The governor’s office did not announce an official start date, but Van Vorst’s appointment will become effective upon completion of the judicial transition process. The Florida Constitution grants the governor authority to fill judicial vacancies through appointment, with appointees subject to standing for election in the next general cycle that occurs more than one year after their appointment.

Van Vorst’s elevation to the circuit bench will leave a vacancy in the Alachua County Court, which will be filled through the same appointment process.

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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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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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 The following is a press release provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff.

Grants Part of More Than $3.5 Million Awarded to Youth Literacy Programs Across the Country

GOODLETTSVILLE, TENNESSEE  – Aug. 14, 2025 – Today, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation (DGLF) announced the award of more than $190,000 in youth literacy grants to Florida non-profit organizations, libraries and schools. The funds are part of more than $3.5 million recently awarded across the country for recipients to use the funds for professional development opportunities and/or to purchase books, technology, equipment or materials to help extend a brighter future for K-12 students.

“As the need for accessible educational materials and resources for our country’s youth continues, we are proud to provide vital support to local literacy programs,” shared Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “The Dollar General Literacy Foundation believes the investment in the education of a young student is an investment in a brighter future. We are grateful to the local schools, libraries and non-profit organizations that are serving students and helping them thrive.”

Florida recipients are below, and a comprehensive list of grant recipients may be found online at www.dgliteracy.org. The Florida grants are expected to positively impact the lives of more than 24,500 individuals in the state.

Applications for the 2026 Dollar General Literacy Foundation grant cycle supporting youth, family, summer and adult literacy programs will be available at www.dgliteracy.org in January 2026. These grants aim to support schools, libraries, and non-profit organizations within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center in implementing new literacy initiatives or expanding existing ones. Grant applications may be found online at http://www.dgliteracy.org.

To shine an additional light on literacy, the Foundation recently launched its sixth annual The Yellow Glasses Project. Now through International Literacy Day on September 8 (or while supplies last), DG customers can purchase yellow sunglasses for $2 each at participating DG stores across the country to benefit the DGLF.

Florida recipients include:

City
Organization Name
  Grant Amount
Apopka Piedmont Lakes Middle School  $             4,000
Boca Raton ROOTS AND WINGS INC  $             5,000
Davenport Restoration Apostolic Truth Ministries  $             5,000
Destin Destin Library  $             4,000
Fort Lauderdale Jack and Jill Children's Center Inc  $             5,000
Fort Walton Beach Children in Crisis, Inc.  $             4,000
Gainesville PEAK Literacy  $             3,710
Gainesville Children Beyond Our Borders, Inc.  $             4,880
Hobe Sound Boys & Girls Club of Martin County, Inc.  $             5,000
Hollywood The Quest Center  $             4,000
Immokalee Guadalupe Center, Inc.  $             5,000
Inverness Citrus County Education Foundation  $             4,000
Jacksonville Icon Preparatory School Jacksonville  $             4,000
Kissimmee Partin Settlement Elementary  $             3,000
Lake City Westside Elementary School  $             4,000
Lakeland United Way of Central Florida, Inc.  $             4,000
Melbourne Space Coast Discovery  $             5,000
Miami Hope for Miami  $             4,865
Miami Uplift Literacy, Inc  $             5,000
Naples New Horizons of Southwest Florida, Inc.  $             5,000
Naples Grace Place for Children and Families, Inc.  $             5,000
Odessa Chapter One NFP  $          50,000
Orlando Pineloch Elementary  $             3,000
Orlando Pinewood Elementary  $             3,000
Orlando Lake Gem Elementary  $             3,500
Panama City Bay Haven Charter Academy  $             5,000
Pembroke Park Koinonia Community Development Inc (KCDI) - Mimi's Learning Center K-12  $             4,000
Pensacola C.A. Weis Elementary School  $             3,000
Saint Augustine St. Johns County Education Foundation d/b/a INK! Investing in Kids  $             5,000
Saint Cloud Saint Cloud Elementary School  $             3,000
Saint Petersburg Family Center on Deafness, Inc.  $             4,955
Tampa Hillsborough Education Foundation  $             5,000
West Palm Beach St. Ann Catholic School  $             4,500
Winter Park Conductive Education Center of Orlando, Inc.  $             4,000
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