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Depicted is an artistic rendering of the “Market on Main” as it could appear in the grassy area along Alachua's Main Street. / Rendering by Alachua County Today staff

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City and business leaders join Hector Fundora, center right, for a ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of Fundora Jewelry in Rolling Oaks Plaza on Sept. 4 in Alachua. The event marked the city’s first jewelry store and included remarks from local officials, music and refreshments./ Photo Special to Alachua County Today

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The Cleather H. Hathcock, Sr. Community Center in Alachua shows its age as city leaders plan for a replacement. / Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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The vibrant “Greetings from Newberry, Florida” mural, completed by artist Jesus Martinez, now brightens the west wall of a city-owned building, serving as both public art and a new downtown landmark. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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

GAINESVILLE, FL (Oct. 10, 2025) -- The Department of Fine Arts and Entertainment Technology at Santa Fe College (SF) will present a concert called “Reflections” by the vocal ensemble “Voices of Santa Fe” Oct. 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the Lyceum (E auditorium) located on the Northwest campus.

"Reflections” is a positive look at events that happen in our everyday lives — themes of joy, hope and happiness run through the songs — and how we can look at even ‘not-so-happy events with different eyes.

This free concert will feature an instrumental pop ensemble directed by Assistant Professor of Music Ed White. “Voices of Santa Fe” is a brand-new ensemble made up of students from SF musical theater, classical music and theater department classes who are available to perform for events at the College, the Gainesville community, or for anyone needing solos or ensembles.  Find more information about the concert, go to this link.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ A lighthearted approach is helping spread a serious message about pedestrian safety as High Springs prepares to take part in International Walk to School Day. Firefighter/Paramedic Doug Hope and High Springs Community School Principal Jenni Roberson teamed up to create a pun-filled video promoting the annual event and reminding students of safe walking habits.

The event will officially kick off at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at High Springs Community School, with additional celebrations scheduled at other local schools throughout the week. Organized by Safe Kids North Central Florida, in partnership with the High Springs Fire Department and other community partners, the campaign is designed to encourage students to walk safely while building healthy habits.

The video blends humor with safety lessons, offering students and families memorable tips:

  • Always use crosswalks and look left, right and left again before crossing.
  • Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, and if none are available, walk facing traffic.
  • “Walk like you own the sidewalk” and “follow the rules like your mom is watching.”

Delivered with a series of puns and jokes, the presentation highlights how safety doesn’t have to be boring. For example, students are asked why a child might bring a flashlight to school — the answer: “because he wanted to be bright in class.” Another playful reminder tells kids to be “toe-tally prepared” and warns of a “roam-a-saurus” when a dinosaur walks to school.

While High Springs will launch the week, other Alachua County schools are also joining the effort:

  • Oct. 7 (afternoon): Littlewood Elementary
  • Oct. 8 (morning): Stephen Foster Elementary
  • Oct. 8 (afternoon): Rawlings Elementary
  • Oct. 10 (morning): Norton Elementary

Each celebration reinforces the importance of pedestrian safety, encouraging children and families to practice safe walking habits near schools and in their neighborhoods.

International Walk to School Day is observed worldwide each October, promoting health, safety and community. The initiative encourages students to walk or bike to school, reducing traffic congestion while teaching practical pedestrian skills.

High Springs Fire Department’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to community education and child safety as a proud coalition member of Safe Kids North Central Florida.

The full video featuring Hope and Roberson can be viewed at: youtube/Hr6loDf0fZw.

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The spirit of the 1950s came alive in downtown Newberry as the Newberry Main Street Organization (NMSO) hosted its Third Annual Fabulous 50’s Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

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NEWBERRY ‒ The spirit of the 1950s came alive in downtown Newberry as the Newberry Main Street Organization (NMSO) hosted its Third Annual Fabulous 50’s Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. The event drew thousands to the city’s historic center at 25320 W. Newberry Road, celebrating an era known for its music, cars and community spirit.

NMSO President Chris Mack described the event as “a tribute to the 50s and a time when things just seemed easier.” That nostalgic theme carried throughout the free, family-friendly festival, where attendees were encouraged to don vintage attire and join in a lively costume contest.

This year’s festival was a collaborative effort between NMSO and Gainesville Street Rods, which helped raise money for charity. Nearly $2,000 was collected to support Homes 4 Heroes, while a clothing drive gathered donations for St. Francis House. Organizers said both causes benefitted significantly from the enthusiastic response of festivalgoers.

Entertainment was central to the event, with music from the 1950s and 1960s filling the streets courtesy of Newberry’s Twisted H Productions. A live DJ kept energy high throughout the day, while food trucks and local vendors offered refreshments and merchandise. The highlight for many was the classic car show, billed as “awesome” by organizers, which drew car enthusiasts eager to showcase vintage rides.

While the Fabulous 50’s Festival is one of NMSO’s smaller events, organizers said they were encouraged by the turnout. An estimated 3,000 visitors attended, enjoying not only the festival itself but also the restaurants and shops in historic downtown Newberry.

Mack said the strong community response reaffirmed the festival’s growing role in highlighting downtown as a hub for both residents and visitors. The event not only showcased local businesses but also fostered a sense of pride in Newberry’s historic core.

With live music, classic cars, nostalgic costumes and charitable giving, the Fabulous 50’s Festival once again blended entertainment with community spirit—leaving organizers optimistic about the festival’s future as a fixture on Newberry’s event calendar.

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The construction of Newberry’s new City Hall nears completion. Photo by Alachua County Today Staff Photographer

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NEWBERRY ‒ The construction of Newberry’s new City Hall is nearing completion, marking a major step in the city’s efforts to centralize government services and improve accessibility for residents and business owners. Since the groundbreaking in September 2024, the two-story, 11,000-square-foot facility has steadily taken shape and is now expected to open later this fall.

For years, residents seeking city services have had to navigate multiple buildings around town. Departments such as Community Development and the Building Department operated out of the Little Red Schoolhouse, while other offices were located across the street in Annex 2 or inside the existing City Hall. The new building is designed to bring all services under one roof, creating a single point of access for residents, developers and business owners.

City officials say the consolidation will streamline services and improve efficiency. The ground floor will house customer-facing departments including Finance, Community Development, Customer Service and the Building Department. The second floor will feature 18 offices and three collaborative open work areas for city staff. Although the building includes an elevator, most customer needs can be met on the ground floor. There will not be private offices for the mayor or commissioners, but space will be available for citizens to meet with them or staff in private when needed.

One of the key features is a 1,246-square-foot Commission Chamber designed to seat more residents during public meetings. An accordion wall will allow the space to expand or contract, making it adaptable for gatherings of different sizes. Conference rooms and updated technology are also being added to improve service delivery.

City leaders stress that the new building has been designed to blend into its surroundings while offering state-of-the-art amenities. “The idea is to make City services easily accessible for our community as we grow,” said Assistant Director of Capital Projects and Facilities Ryan Young.

The $11,000-square-foot project is being managed by Scorpio Construction of Gainesville, with design by Monarch Design Group. City staff members have worked closely with the construction team throughout the process. Once the new facility is finished, the city plans to remodel the existing 3,300-square-foot City Hall building and connect the two structures. A loggia will link them, creating a covered outdoor area with pavers for festivals, farmers markets and other community activities.

The city museum, located in the Little Red Schoolhouse, is also slated for improvements, although those upgrades will follow later.

City Manager Jordan Marlowe emphasized that the project is long overdue. He noted the city waited until the need became pressing before committing taxpayer dollars. He also tentatively identified Nov. 15 as a possible ribbon-cutting date, though officials stressed the timeline remains subject to change.

“Once the building is completed, we will coordinate to get everybody moved in while minimizing any inconvenience to our community,” Young said. An official announcement of the ribbon-cutting is expected within the coming weeks.

With the project nearing completion, Newberry residents can expect a more centralized, efficient government hub—one designed not only to meet current needs but to grow alongside the city in the years ahead.

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HAWTHORNE ‒ A Leesburg man was arrested Wednesday afternoon following a violent road rage altercation in Hawthorne that left another driver hospitalized with multiple stab wounds.

According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 2:47 p.m. on Sept. 24, 2025, to the intersection of U.S. Highway 301 and State Road 20, where the confrontation began between 50-year-old Jean Claude Van Damme and another driver. Both men pulled their vehicles to the roadside after a traffic dispute and engaged in an argument.

Witnesses told deputies that the confrontation turned physical when Van Damme spit on the other driver, prompting the man to strike him once in the face. Van Damme then allegedly pulled a knife and slashed at the victim while he attempted to back away. At one point, Van Damme fell, but both men ended up on the ground as the attack continued. Deputies said bystanders intervened and physically pulled Van Damme off the victim, preventing further injury.

A deputy reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby business that reportedly showed the sequence of events. The video confirmed that the victim punched Van Damme once before backing away. Van Damme was then seen advancing with the knife, making slashing motions as the victim retreated. The footage captured Van Damme falling, the victim reaching toward the knife, and the two men struggling on the ground before witnesses intervened.

The victim was transported to UF Health Shands Hospital with stab wounds and lacerations. Deputies reported that the injuries could have been fatal without the actions of those who restrained Van Damme. The victim later provided a sworn statement to law enforcement.

After being read his rights, Van Damme requested an attorney. He was charged with attempted homicide and booked into the Alachua County Jail. Court records show that Van Damme has no prior criminal history.

Judge Meshon Rawls has ordered him held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney’s Office to detain him until trial. If the motion is denied, bail will be set at that time.

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 ALACHUA ‒ The City of Alachua proclaimed October 2025 as American Pharmacists Month in recognition of the pharmacy profession during the Sept. 22 City Commission meeting.

Pictured from left are Justin Rix, Pharm.D., Palms Medical Group; Bryn Tenney, Pharm.D., Hitchcock's Hometown Pharmacy; Mayor Walter Welch; and William Garst, Pharm.D., Alachua County Association of Pharmacists and Lake Butler Hospital. Commissioners are standing in the background.

The proclamation states: “Whereas, the American Pharmacists Association, the Florida Pharmacy Association and the Alachua County Area Association of Pharmacists have declared October 2025 as American Pharmacists Month. Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Walter Welch, Mayor of the City of Alachua, representing the City and City Commissioners, do hereby proclaim October 2025 as American Pharmacists Month and urge all citizens to acknowledge the valuable services of pharmacists.”

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

Gainesville, Fla.—Florida Farm Bureau has announced the top three finalists for its 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year award.  This award recognizes outstanding agriculturists who demonstrate excellence in agriculture, leadership, innovation and stewardship of the land.  

The finalists for the award are Lucy Abell of Desoto County, Dr. Hal Phillips of Levy County and Woody Larson of Okeechobee County. These individuals will be recognized on stage, and the 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year recipient will be announced on October 29 at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s 84th State Annual Meeting in Daytona Beach.  

Lucy Abell, Desoto County 


Lucy Abell owns and operates Abell Livestock Company, a commercial cow/calf operation spanning Highlands, DeSoto and Charlotte counties. Raised on her family’s ranch in Texas and New Mexico, Abell moved to Florida in 2017.  She has focused on developing an efficient and integrated breeding program for the ranch’s predominantly True F1 Braford cow herd. In addition to cattle, she has diversified operations to include watermelon, sod harvesting and hunting. She is passionate about land stewardship and prioritizes conservation and sustainable production practices.  Abell earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University in 2013 and is a graduate of the University of Florida’s Wedgworth Leadership Institute, Class XII.

Dr. Hal Phillips, Levy County 

Dr. Harrell “Hal” Phillips is a lifelong cattleman, veterinarian and agricultural leader from Morriston, Fla. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Phillips practiced veterinary medicine for 20 years before dedicating himself full-time to Phillips Ranch—a diversified operation of breeding-age cattle and a backgrounding calf program. He also specializes in the production of hay, sod, grass seed, small grains and timber.  

Dr. Phillips has served as president of both the Florida and Marion County Cattlemen’s Associations and as a director of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Farm Credit of Florida. In 2024, he was inducted into the Marion County Agriculture Hall of Fame, honoring his lifelong commitment to stewardship, education, and leadership. Dr. Phillips remains dedicated to leaving the land better than he found it and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. 

Woody Larson, Okeechobee County 

Woody Larson joined the family business, Larson Dairy Inc., in 1973 after graduating from The University of Florida.  Starting as a barn manager, he advanced to general manager and led the operation’s growth to more than 12,000 milking cows. In 2001, Larson and his wife Grace, founded Family Tree Enterprises, a diversified agriculture business specializing in dairy and beef operations along with hay, sod and nursery sales.   

Larson’s leadership extends across numerous agricultural organizations, including serving as officer of Southeast Milk Inc., for more than 20 years, board chairman of Farm Credit of Florida, and president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. Nationally, he has represented Florida on the National Milk Producers Federation and the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. 

About the Florida Farmer of the Year Program
The Florida Farm Bureau Farmer of the Year award is open to any farmer or member of a farming family actively involved in agriculture and is at least 21 years old. The winner will serve a one-year term beginning January 1 and concluding October 2026. 

The Florida Farmer of the Year will represent Florida Farm Bureau and champion agriculture at various agricultural-related events during their term. Additionally, the Florida Farmer of the Year will compete for the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year in Moultrie, Ga. against farmers from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. 

Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 132,000 member-families. We serve to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities.

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

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - The University of Florida Athletic Department has announced that Deputy Athletics Director Chip Howard will retire, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Howard's career with Gator Athletics began in the late 1980s and now spans across five decades of dedicated service and leadership. During that time, he has played a pivotal role in advancing the success and growth of Florida's athletic programs. His expertise and vision have left an enduring impact on the department and the entire Gator community.

"It is never the right time, but you know when the time is right," Howard said. "After more than 35 years, I feel this is the right moment to step away and begin a new chapter. This decision comes with great pride and gratitude for all that Florida Athletics has meant to me."

"Chip's leadership, experience, and steady presence have been a constant source of strength for Florida Athletics," said Scott Stricklin, Athletics Director. "He has served this university with dedication and care, always putting the Gators first. Chip's influence will be felt for years to come, and we're all better for having worked alongside him."

"Florida has been such an important part of my life, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to serve this athletic department," said Howard. "It's been an honor to work alongside so many talented staff and incredible coaches. I am especially thankful to Jeremy Foley, for giving me my first opportunity over 36 years ago and who served as a great mentor and even better friend. I am also grateful to Scott Stricklin for his guidance and support and for welcoming me back home here in 2019. Their support has been invaluable to me in my career. Most importantly, I want to thank my wife Phoebe and our two sons, Cole and Beckett, for their unwavering love and support throughout this journey. I look forward to this next chapter with great excitement."

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A sweeping new law in Florida that took effect Wednesday makes it illegal to produce sexual images of a person using artificial intelligence or similar technologies without their permission.

The new law also allows people whose photographs were manipulated that way to sue those responsible in civil court.

The law took effect this week only two days after Marion County sheriff’s deputies arrested Lucius William Martin, 39, of Eustis, Florida, and accused him of using AI to produce nude images of the juvenile daughter of someone close to him and her friend. The software Martin used digitally removed the girls’ clothing in pictures he downloaded from social media, according to court records. 

Such tools can be used to “nudify” an otherwise innocent photograph.

Martin was arrested Monday and remains in the county jail in Ocala, facing eight felony counts of child pornography under Florida’s existing statutes and one count of trying to destroy evidence. The girl’s mother captured a screenshot of the images to give to authorities, the sheriff’s office said. A deputy said Martin reset his phone as he was being arrested to delete the evidence.

Martin couldn’t be reached immediately for comment because he was still in jail. He was being appointed a public defender on Thursday for his arraignment scheduled next month, but no lawyer had yet been assigned to represent him.

The versions of the images of the girls nude on Martin’s phone included remnants of their clothing that had been digitally removed and showed deformities on the girls’ arms and legs, which a deputy wrote in court records “is common on AI-generated imagery.” His phone also contained the same, unaltered images of the girls wearing clothes, court records said.

Last year, singer Taylor Swift was the victim of AI-generated, fake images of her nude, also called “deep fakes,” circulating over popular social media sites.

The Florida bill, sponsored by Republican Reps. Mike Redondo of Miami and Jennifer Kincart Jonsson of Bartow and known as the “sexual images” bill, passed the Legislature unanimously earlier this year and was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in May. 

Rep. Michelle Salzman, R-Cantonment, said during a House Judiciary Committee hearing earlier this year that her community in Florida’s Panhandle has suffered cases of AI-generated sexual images.

“Seeing this brought forward is a breath of fresh air,” she said. “AI is incredible. We need it. It does a lot of good, but with great power comes great responsibility, and a lot of folks aren’t taking responsibility for their actions.”

Key provisions of the new law include criminalizing use of AI to generate a nude image of an actual person without their consent, or soliciting or possessing such images. The new felony punishment includes a prison term up to 5 years for each image and a fine up to $5,000.

The new law was long overdue, said former Sen. Lauren Book, a leading advocate for sex crime victims. She said AI and popular software tools make it easy to create realistic images. 

“Legislation is a crucial step in ensuring that our justice system can keep pace with technological advancements so that we are not lagging in protecting our children,” said Book, a child sex abuse survivor who founded “Lauren’s Kids,” a non-profit dedicated to stopping child sex abuse. 

Such digitally altered images of children or teens are often used to extort families, said Fallon McNulty, executive director at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Criminals can extract payment or sexual favors in exchange for agreeing not to distribute nude images to victims’ friends, classmates or family members. 

The center’s  CyberTipline, which started tracking reports involving generative AI in 2023, received 4,700 reports involving AI-generated images in its first year. In the first six months of 2025, she said the tipline had received 400,000 such reports.

McNulty said mainstream software companies try to block and report illicit use of their programs, but some developers offer apps with no built-in safety measures.

Meta announced earlier this year it was suing a company in Hong Kong that it said ran ads on its platforms to promote an app that helps users create nonconsensual, sexualized images using AI. It sued the developer of an app called CrushAI, which could be used to create nude images.

Lawmakers are always “trying to play catch up” when it comes to regulating AI, said Elizabeth Rasnick, an assistant professor at the Center for Cybersecurity at the University of West Florida, adding that they are “doing the best they can with what they currently have.”

“ There's no possible way we can foresee how these tools are going to be used in the future,” Rasnick said. “The Legislature is always going to have to try to fill in whatever gaps there were after those gaps are discovered and exploited.”

Digitally altering images has been possible for decades using specialized image-editing tools, but the new AI programs can turn out sexual content in seconds with no special skills required, said Kevin Butler, a  professor of computer science and  director of the Institute for Cybersecurity Research at the University of Florida.

Using the new AI tools can take a photo posted on social media and “undress the whole family,” said Kyle Glen, commander of the Central Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. He praised the new law but noted that juvenile offenders – who may try to bully classmates by creating such images – often aren’t prosecuted criminally the first time they are caught.

“As much laws as we pass and as much software is out there, and technology that we use, bad guys are always a step ahead,” Glen said. “They're innovative and they're going to think of ways to get around law enforcement or exploit children, you know, if that's what they're infatuated with.”

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A new Florida law that takes effect this week cracks down on the illicit use of Apple AirTags or other Bluetooth trackers to stalk or follow someone during the commission of a dangerous crime.

Starting Wednesday, the new law carries a punishment of up to 15 years in prison for anyone convicted of using the high-tech trackers to commit crimes including murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, rape, robbery or other serious offenses.

The Legislature passed the law unanimously earlier this year, and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed it in May. Last year, lawmakers separately increased the penalty for using such trackers to stalk someone, raising such crimes from a misdemeanor to a felony with a sentence of up to five years in prison.

“It is critical that we establish a deterrent to those who would utilize these technologies in furtherance of committing crimes, which do real harm to our citizens,” the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Tom Leek, R-St. Augustine, said during a Senate Criminal Justice Committee hearing when lawmakers were still considering the measure.

Cases of stalking with tracking devices have escalated sharply in recent years, according to statewide criminal data. In 2019, there were 15 such charges in Florida. Already in 2025, the number has topped 100 with three months left in the year.

The surge coincides with the growing popularity of the small, inexpensive tracking devices with batteries that can last one year or longer. Products like Apple’s AirTag or Life 360’s Tile are marketed as useful tools to track luggage or keys, but the same features can render them hard-to-detect and vulnerable to misuse.

Illicit stalking can also occur through the misuse of cell phones and apps, such as Life360 or Find My Friends, said Brittani Melvin, director of the Peaceful Paths Domestic Abuse Network. It offers emergency shelter, counseling and advocacy services for victims across Alachua, Bradford, and Union counties in north-central Florida.

The same day DeSantis signed the new law earlier this year, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested Julian Jaramillo, 21, of Palmetto, Florida, on felony kidnapping and carjacking charges and misdemeanor battery, according to court records. 

Jaramillo was accused of hiding an extra cell phone in his ex-girlfriend’s car to follow her to a friend’s home in Ruskin, south of Tampa. He is also facing a felony charge of illegally installing or using a tracking device or application. Authorities found the phone, registered to Jaramillo, inside the car.

“He placed a phone in the zippered portion of the rear seat and used GPS location to track her for the past two weeks,” Assistant State Attorney Andrew Ray Liverman wrote in court records.

Jaramillo forced the woman into the trunk of her own vehicle – which was captured on video released by the sheriff’s office – and took her to his home in Palmetto, 20 miles away, according to court records. She was able to call a friend and describe in a whisper what happened, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office rescued her. 

Jaramillo has pleaded not guilty. A jury trial is expected to start Feb. 23. His lawyers did not respond to phone messages asking about the case.

Jaramillo was not charged under the heightened penalty of up to 15 years in prison approved this year by the Legislature because they were not in effect at the time. He would face up to five years if convicted on the felony tracking charge and up to life in prison on the kidnapping charge.

The Senate minority leader, Lori Berman, D-Boynton Beach, supported the bill. When lawmakers were considering its passage, she noted the 2021 murder of a 4-year-old in Broward County, Greyson Kessler.

Greyson’s father, John Stacey, had secretly installed a GPS device on the vehicle of Greyson’s mother, Allison Kessler, to track her whereabouts. During a court-ordered visitation, Stacey shot Greyson and then himself at this condo, despite repeated warnings from Kessler to law enforcement about his behavior.

Berman introduced “Greyson’s Law,” which the Legislature passed in 2023 to help protect children in custody disputes. She said the new Florida law against illicit trackers could toughen penalties in similar crimes when the perpetrator lives.

“I feel like having that car tracker that [Stacey] put on [Kessler’s] car without her knowledge was a precipitating event to the actual tragedy that happened in this case,” Berman said in an interview. “So when I saw this bill, I was actually happy to know that we are making the penalties stronger.”

About 15 percent of women stalking victims in a recent, national government survey reported being tracked by GPS devices and 20 percent reported they were monitored through computer software or apps. Its data was based on interviews with more than 8,000 women.

Experts said there are warning signs.

“Often, in the course of the relationship, they were showing up unexpectedly in places where you didn't think they'd be,” said Randi Spiker, a psychologist who specializes in technology and violence. “They come to your workplace. They show up when you're out with your friends. And it seems like a sweet, romantic surprise. But it's because they've been tracking you.”

Such crimes can prey on a victim’s feelings about loss of trust and safety.

“Even your own devices in your own home are no longer safe,” Spiker said. “So, there's a huge loss of that own feeling of personal safety, even in your own home, in your job, in your car. You can't escape it, so you feel stuck, and you feel very isolated because you don't know who you can trust or if people are going to take it seriously.”

Spiker said lawmakers should hold manufacturers more responsibility for the improper use of their products. She said companies haven’t been held legally liable enough. 

Representatives for Apple Inc. did not respond to an email to its media relations staff. Apple and other companies have made efforts to avoid misuse of their products by notifying users if an unknown device is traveling with them. Apple is facing a 2022 ongoing federal lawsuit in California over whether its AirTags can be used for stalking.

Melvin, who runs the domestic violence shelter, said these messages often go unnoticed by victims. “How many times do we get notifications on our phone and we just ignore them?” Melvin asked. 

It’s unclear whether tougher penalties will prevent violent stalking, said Aaron Wayt, co-chair and president-elect of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He said early intervention is more effective at reducing crime and said individuals who obtain restraining orders can ask authorities to check their homes and vehicles for tracking devices.

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The following is a press release provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). It has been published here as received, without additional reporting or editing by Alachua County Today staff.

~ Federal investment enhances Florida’s law enforcement capabilities and reinforces public safety through expanded immigration enforcement.~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Last week, it was announced that the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) received $13.6 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to support its partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the 287(g) Task Force Model (TFM).

This funding reinforces Florida’s commitment to law and order by expanding the operational capacity of state and local law enforcement agencies engaged in immigration enforcement. The 287(g) program equips Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers with the authority to identify, process, and detain individuals who violate federal immigration laws. Since March, more than 4,900 illegal aliens have been apprehended by the FHP, including nearly 900 with criminal histories.

“Florida’s law enforcement officers are on the front lines of protecting our state from the consequences of illegal immigration,” said Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This investment allows us to expand our capabilities and continue working alongside ICE to enforce the law and safeguard our communities.”

Through the 287(g) Task Force Model, FLHSMV will receive:

  • $7,500 per federally trained Task Force Officer to purchase essential equipment
  • $100,000 per operational agreement to acquire new vehicles that support immigration enforcement missions

This investment comes at a critical time. Law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement across the country—and here in Florida—are facing rising threats and hostility. These resources will help protect officers on the front lines, improve mobility and response capabilities, and reinforce Florida’s unwavering commitment to public safety and the rule of law.

The funding announcement coincided with Florida’s second immigration enforcement operation last week, led by the Florida Highway Patrol in coordination with county, state, and federal partners. Participating agencies include DHS, ICE, U.S. Border Patrol, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Gaming Control Commission, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, Florida Department of Financial Services, and the Florida Department of Lottery’s Division of Security. Highlights of the operation include:

  • 2,020 traffic stops.
  • 1,539 citations issued.
  • 461 illegal aliens apprehended.
  • 235 misdemeanor charges.
  • 75 felony charges.
  • 45 illegal aliens with prior criminal history.
  • Illegal aliens represented 19 countries, including Guatemala, El Salvador, China, Czech Republic, Cuba, India, Mexico, Cape Verde, Portugal, and Brazil.

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CITRUS COUNTY - On Aug. 29, 2025, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officer responded to a witness complaint in Citrus County regarding an intoxicated boater operating a vessel without navigational lighting on Kings Bay. The complaint was reported as the vessel operator was preparing to leave the boat ramp.

While en route, the officer observed a vehicle towing a vessel matching the description accelerating across four lanes of traffic on U.S. Highway 19. The officer contacted the Florida Highway Patrol and attempted to stop the vehicle. An FHP trooper was able to intercept and safely stop the erratically driven vehicle.

The FWC officer confirmed the driver, Nicholas Chase Bunts (DOB 05/06/1998) of Dunnellon, was the vessel operator in Kings Bay. Observable evidence indicated Bunts was under the influence of alcohol. He consented to perform Seated Field Sobriety Tasks, which led to his arrest and transport to the Citrus County Jail.

Bunts was issued a DUI citation for a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher and a Uniform Traffic Citation for failure to maintain a single lane.

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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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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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We want to thank the Alachua County Today community for strongly supporting the Alachua Main Street Harvest Festival this past Sunday.

There were over 200 vendors with all types of products and a record crowd that was amazing from start to finish.  The vendors do a fantastic job of coming early and setting up for a big day and they were rewarded. 

Our 37th Alachua Main Street festival was a resounding success!

Marilyn Vanover

Alachua Business League

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

Gainesville, Fla.—Florida Farm Bureau has announced the top three finalists for its 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year award.  This award recognizes outstanding agriculturists who demonstrate excellence in agriculture, leadership, innovation and stewardship of the land.  

The finalists for the award are Lucy Abell of Desoto County, Dr. Hal Phillips of Levy County and Woody Larson of Okeechobee County. These individuals will be recognized on stage, and the 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year recipient will be announced on October 29 at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s 84th State Annual Meeting in Daytona Beach.  

Lucy Abell, Desoto County 


Lucy Abell owns and operates Abell Livestock Company, a commercial cow/calf operation spanning Highlands, DeSoto and Charlotte counties. Raised on her family’s ranch in Texas and New Mexico, Abell moved to Florida in 2017.  She has focused on developing an efficient and integrated breeding program for the ranch’s predominantly True F1 Braford cow herd. In addition to cattle, she has diversified operations to include watermelon, sod harvesting and hunting. She is passionate about land stewardship and prioritizes conservation and sustainable production practices.  Abell earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University in 2013 and is a graduate of the University of Florida’s Wedgworth Leadership Institute, Class XII.

Dr. Hal Phillips, Levy County 

Dr. Harrell “Hal” Phillips is a lifelong cattleman, veterinarian and agricultural leader from Morriston, Fla. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Phillips practiced veterinary medicine for 20 years before dedicating himself full-time to Phillips Ranch—a diversified operation of breeding-age cattle and a backgrounding calf program. He also specializes in the production of hay, sod, grass seed, small grains and timber.  

Dr. Phillips has served as president of both the Florida and Marion County Cattlemen’s Associations and as a director of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Farm Credit of Florida. In 2024, he was inducted into the Marion County Agriculture Hall of Fame, honoring his lifelong commitment to stewardship, education, and leadership. Dr. Phillips remains dedicated to leaving the land better than he found it and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. 

Woody Larson, Okeechobee County 

Woody Larson joined the family business, Larson Dairy Inc., in 1973 after graduating from The University of Florida.  Starting as a barn manager, he advanced to general manager and led the operation’s growth to more than 12,000 milking cows. In 2001, Larson and his wife Grace, founded Family Tree Enterprises, a diversified agriculture business specializing in dairy and beef operations along with hay, sod and nursery sales.   

Larson’s leadership extends across numerous agricultural organizations, including serving as officer of Southeast Milk Inc., for more than 20 years, board chairman of Farm Credit of Florida, and president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. Nationally, he has represented Florida on the National Milk Producers Federation and the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. 

About the Florida Farmer of the Year Program
The Florida Farm Bureau Farmer of the Year award is open to any farmer or member of a farming family actively involved in agriculture and is at least 21 years old. The winner will serve a one-year term beginning January 1 and concluding October 2026. 

The Florida Farmer of the Year will represent Florida Farm Bureau and champion agriculture at various agricultural-related events during their term. Additionally, the Florida Farmer of the Year will compete for the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year in Moultrie, Ga. against farmers from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. 

Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 132,000 member-families. We serve to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities.

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