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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

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

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

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GAINESVILLE ‒ Shane Andrew, a longtime Alachua County educator and former superintendent of Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS), has been named principal of the Academy of Science and Technology at Santa Fe College. He will assume the role Aug. 1 as the academy prepares to welcome its third freshman class and advance its inaugural class of juniors.

Andrew brings more than 34 years of experience in public education to the position. Most recently, he served as superintendent of ACPS where he led elementary school turnaround efforts and helped launch the 3DE program at Eastside High School in partnership with Junior Achievement. He also worked to expand student support services across the district.

Prior to serving as superintendent, Andrew was the district’s chief of operations, overseeing human resources, professional development, facilities, construction, maintenance, planning, and transportation.

A graduate of Santa Fe College, Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

“The SF Academy is fortunate to have a leader joining us with such a strong background and a heavy focus on student success,” said Jen Homard, executive director of secondary programs at Santa Fe. “We are excited to watch the school continue to excel and help students reach their potential under his guidance.”

The Academy of Science and Technology opened in fall 2023 on Santa Fe College’s Northwest Campus. It offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate of Science degree and industry certifications while completing their high school graduation requirements—at no cost to students or their families.

Andrew succeeds founding principal William McElroy, who retired.

His previous roles include five years as principal of Eastside High School, where he implemented the College Board AP Capstone Program to strengthen student research, communication and collaboration skills. He also helped establish the school’s Medical Skills Career and Technical Education program, designed to prepare students for careers and further education in healthcare.

Andrew also served as principal of Newberry High School, which earned its first “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education during his tenure.

In addition to his work in education, Andrew has served in leadership roles with the Florida Educational Facilities Planners’ Association and the Florida League of Middle Schools. He has also served on the boards of the Alachua County Children’s Trust and the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs City Commission met for a regular session on Thursday, June 26, 2025, addressing a range of issues including road paving, utility agreements, and fire assessment fees. However, a significant portion of the 2.5-hour meeting was dedicated to public comments and commission discussion on a proposed alcohol ordinance related to Sunday sales.

Alcohol Ordinance

Commissioner Chad Howell noted that citizens were continuing to gather petition signatures to reinstate an ordinance allowing for on-site manufacture and sale of alcohol on Sundays.

Mayor Tristan Grunder expressed support for putting the issue before voters.

“I want the public to be able to decide,” Grunder said, asking the city attorney to draft the necessary documentation to place the proposed ordinance on an upcoming election ballot.

City Attorney Danielle Adams explained the legal requirements, noting that proposed changes to the City Code must be clearly outlined. Exhibit A would contain the current ordinance, and Exhibit B would include the proposed amendments.

“This way,” Adams said, “everything comes as one amended motion to align with what the petition is requesting.”

Some residents urged the Commission to act without waiting on the petition.

“We’re just wasting time. You’re wasting our tax dollars,” said Dana Pascarella. “Everybody in the city of High Springs has a vote. If you’re not representing everybody in the city, then you should not be on the council.”

Pascarella cited earlier comments by City Manager Jeremy Marshall that local law enforcement had not observed an increase in DUIs or other incidents on Sundays when the brewery was open.

“This is not about your personal beliefs,” she told the Commission. “This is about our community.”

Others expressed concerns about the tone of the public debate.

Resident Janet Evans said, “I’m really uncomfortable with the atmosphere that’s been created in our community where people who oppose having the Brewery open on Sundays are being shamed, dismissed and potentially targeted with beliefs and slanderous comments.”

Commissioners initially hesitated to act, prompting Mayor Grunder to hand his gavel to Vice Mayor Andrew Miller so he could make a motion. Grunder moved to place the issue on the ballot. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Howell and approved in a 4–1 vote, with Commissioner Wayne Bloodsworth dissenting.

Commission Meeting Date Changes

Commissioners agreed to reschedule the Aug. 14 meeting to Aug. 21 to accommodate Commissioner Bloodsworth’s travel plans. The Commission also moved the July 24 meeting to July 22. The August meetings will now be held on Aug. 21 and Aug. 28.

Road Paving Contract Awarded

Public Works Director Jason Kytle presented the City’s paving project bid results. Four companies submitted bids for Project #ITB:2025-01, and the evaluation committee recommended awarding the contract to Hicks Asphalt, Paving and Concrete of Trenton for $199,100.

An additional contract for paving 199th Lane, in front of the school, was proposed at $26,050. Remaining funds may be used for road safety enhancements, including stop sign and yellow striping.

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve both contracts.

Commission Board Appointment

Commissioner Katherine Weitz was unanimously appointed as the City’s representative to the Joint Water and Climate Policy Board, which reviews policies on water resources protection and climate resiliency.

General Government Impact Fees

Finance Director Diane Wilson reviewed the current balances of the city’s impact fee accounts during a discussion-only item. The General Government account balance is $160,477, the Parks & Recreation balance is $67,050 and the Transportation balance is $156,860. The fees were adopted Nov. 19, 2022, and took effect Jan. 1, 2023. No action was taken following the presentation.

Duke Energy Franchise Agreement

The Commission unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-03, formalizing an agreement with Duke Energy to occupy city rights of way for electric service. Under the agreement, Duke Energy will pay a 6 percent franchise fee to the City by the 20th of each month, with provisions for late fees and service coordination.

Fire Assessment Fees

Commissioners approved a resolution setting the proposed fire assessment fees for fiscal year 2025–26. A study presented on June 12 estimated assessed fire service costs at $1,067,160, with a maximum future cap of $1,431,058.

The new residential rate will rise from $223 to $250 per year. Fees for non-residential properties are based on square footage, capped at 66,000 square feet. The Commercial rate was set at $0.24 per sq. ft., while the Industrial Warehouse rate was set at $0.07 per sq. ft. and the Institutional rate was set at $0.16 per sq. ft.

A public hearing on the proposed assessment is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 21 (previously Aug. 14) at High Springs City Hall, 23718 W. U.S. Highway 27.

As in past years, a procedure will be available for property owners unable to pay. Funds are designated solely for the High Springs Fire Department and do not apply to EMS services.

Christmas Parade Theme

Commissioners announced that the 2025 High Springs Christmas Parade, scheduled for Dec. 13, will carry the theme “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

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GAINESVILLE ‒ The Alachua County Library District has begun construction on a new library branch to serve the Hawthorne community, with the new facility set to replace the existing branch.

Site preparation is already underway, including the removal of the old parking lot. Construction is expected to continue for several months, with the new building slated to open in early 2026.

The new Hawthorne Branch will offer more than 10,000 square feet of space, allowing for expanded book collections, additional computers, and more comfortable seating. Library officials say the upgraded facility will feature several new amenities, including a Snuggle Up Center for young readers, a dedicated Teen Space, a Quiet Reading Room, private study rooms, and a MakerSpace.

“While we love our current building, we are beyond excited about the construction of the new library,” said Hawthorne Branch Manager Cameron Burris. “It will offer so much more to the Hawthorne community and allow us to create new opportunities to participate, connect, and discover.”

The current library will remain open throughout construction. The new building is being constructed adjacent to the existing branch on the same property.

For updates on the project and other library news, visit the Library District’s website or follow its official social media channels.

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ALACHUA – A Gainesville man was arrested Saturday morning after allegedly pointing a gun at another vehicle during a road rage incident in Alachua, according to police.

Glenn David MacCallum, 51, was taken into custody by the Alachua Police Department (APD) after officers responded to a report of an armed confrontation involving a family on U.S. Highway 441.

According to the police report, the victims told dispatchers at 8:55 a.m. that a man had pointed a firearm at them and their child “without provocation.” An officer responding to the call located a vehicle matching the description provided by the victims and conducted a high-risk traffic stop.

Police said MacCallum was detained without incident, and a loaded black pistol was found holstered in his waistband. After being read his Miranda rights, MacCallum reportedly declined to speak with law enforcement.

The victims later identified MacCallum “without a shadow of a doubt” as the individual who brandished the weapon and confirmed it matched the black pistol recovered by police, according to the report.

Authorities also determined that MacCallum’s driver’s license had been suspended indefinitely in September 2024.

He faces three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and one count of knowingly driving with a suspended license. Court records indicate that MacCallum has no prior criminal history.

Alachua County Judge Susanne Wilson Bullard ordered him held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney’s Office seeking pretrial detention. If the motion is denied, bail will be set at that hearing in addition to the $250 bond already set for the traffic offense.

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ALACHUA ‒ A 17-year-old Alachua man has been sentenced as an adult to four years in state prison after deputies found a stolen pistol and nearly 170 grams of marijuana in his bedroom during a February search.

Charles Lavon Williams Jr., who had previously served a juvenile sentence in 2024, was released on Nov. 26 of that year. A subsequent investigation involving his social media account reportedly showed him holding multiple firearms after being adjudicated a delinquent.

On Feb. 5, 2025, the Alachua County Sheriff's Office obtained a search warrant for the home where Williams lives with his mother. The following day, investigators searched his bedroom and recovered a 9mm Taurus pistol with an extended magazine that had been reported stolen in Alachua, along with a loaded Glock extended magazine. Both items had allegedly appeared in social media posts by Williams.

Deputies also reported finding a bag containing 167.99 grams of marijuana in his closet, along with a digital scale and a box of baggies. One detective wrote that the discovery “indicat[ed] to this detective that [Williams] has been involved in narcotics since his release from his Juvenile Commitment Program.”

Although Williams was not charged with stealing the pistol—authorities said he was in custody when it was stolen—he was charged with possession of a firearm by an adjudicated delinquent and possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana.

On Feb. 17, Williams was formally charged as an adult and transferred to the Alachua County Jail later that month. At the time of his arrest, he had one prior juvenile conviction and told court personnel he was a student at Santa Fe High School. He was released on $100,000 bail in early March.

Williams entered an open plea of nolo contendere on May 19 to both charges, which carried a maximum sentence of 20 years. The following day, prosecutors asked Circuit Judge William Davis to remand Williams to custody pending sentencing, but the judge denied the motion and instead imposed an 8 p.m. curfew, with exceptions if he was fulfilling work or school obligations.

On June 9, Judge Davis sentenced Williams to two concurrent four-year prison terms, followed by three years of probation for the firearm charge.

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NEWBERRY ‒ The Newberry City Commission voted unanimously to approve Ordinance 2025-18 on first reading, advancing a proposal to create a new Agriculture Technology (AT) Zoning District aimed at supporting the city’s largest economic development initiative.

During the meeting, city staff presented the ordinance, which includes amendments to the Land Development Regulations that would formalize the AT Zoning District and enact the city’s Corporate Park Future Land Use designation. The zoning designation is intended to support development of the Agriculture Technology Park while ensuring compatibility with surrounding residential and commercial areas.

According to the ordinance, the new district will be added to Section 4.1 of the city’s Land Development Regulations, while Section 4.24 will define the intent, purpose, permitted uses, and design and development standards applicable to properties within the district.

“These efforts contribute to the broader goal of preserving property values and maintaining a strong tax base for Newberry,” city officials stated in the presentation. All permitted and special uses within the district must align with the mission and core activities of the Agriculture Technology Park and its affiliated operations.

The Planning and Zoning Board previously reviewed the proposed ordinance at its June 2 meeting and voted unanimously to recommend its adoption by the City Commission.

The ordinance is scheduled for a second reading and final vote at the Commission’s next meeting on June 23. If approved, the new zoning district will establish development guidelines intended to facilitate innovation, safeguard nearby communities, and advance Newberry’s position as a regional hub for agricultural technology.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Low interest disaster loans now available

ATLANTA - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida who sustained economic losses caused by drought occurring Mar. 11.

The disaster declaration covers the counties of Alachua, Bradford, Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Hernando, Lake, Lee, Levy, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter and Volusia in Florida.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.62% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 5, 2026.

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TALLAHASSEE.— On May 23, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills:

CS/CS/HB 969 - Reporting of Student Mental Health Outcomes
CS/SB 150 - Abandoning Restrained Dogs During Natural Disasters
CS/HB 255 - Aggravated Animal Cruelty
CS/HB 999 - Legal Tender
CS/SB 1102 - School Readiness Program
CS/CS/HB 1255 - Education
HB 6017 - Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death
CS/CS/SB 112 - Children with Developmental Disabilities
CS/CS/HB 443 - Education
CS/CS/HB 875 - Educator Preparation
CS/CS/CS/HB 1105 - Education
CS/HB 547 - Medical Debt
CS/HB 1567 - Insulin Administration by Direct-support Professionals and Relatives
CS/CS/SB 768 - Foreign Countries of Concern
CS/CS/SB 1546 - Background Screening of Athletic Coaches
SB 994 - Driver License Education Requirements
CS/CS/HB 757 - Sexual Images

The Governor has until May 30, 2025 to act on these bills.

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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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Small municipalities are currently undergoing numerous changes and financial problems. Elected officials often spearhead projects within their cities, but I do not see much of that taking place in my city of Archer. In most cases we have no oversight, follow up or plans. The lack of these brings about project delays affecting the utilization of grants and other resources in the city.

It is a sad thing to see the newly planned Community Center project for the Holly Hills neighborhood going down the drain and grant funding being returned.

Municipalities are grappling with an influx of grant funds aimed at addressing numerous community projects. As someone who has authored and received numerous grants, I can attest that effective leadership is crucial for fund management. The associated reports alone are intricate. This underscores the importance of well -trained municipal managers and staff, including contingency training.

The city manager should be a proficient communicator, hands-on, and proactive, engaging with the community to address the needs. The city manager assumes a leadership role, ensuring task are completed, while the commissioners act as overseers, bridging the gap between politics and administration and executing the laws.

Citizens and residents in many small towns like Archer often refrain from participating in the political process. Attending meetings become futile when the issue affecting you have already transpired, rendering your input belated.

We all contribute taxes to support our cities and understanding how the funds are spent is crucial.

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

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Our small town of High Springs is beloved because its elected leaders have done more things right than wrong over time. Just like with big families, there is rarely unanimous agreement on how issues should be addressed. Issues are not simple, and leaders that let you believe the choices are not hard are fooling you. What usually tells the truth is time.

In the past year, High Springs has received no new grant funding, returned over a million dollars in grants, lost leaders in every major department other than police, while retaining an under qualified finance director. Our mayor and other first-term commissioners have blamed former staff and former elected officials for a range of problems and suddenly the city is portrayed as poor.

For the first time in years, our city is being sued. Current leadership has accepted no responsibility and created a budget, that in the coming year, will repeat many of the mistakes previous commissions had been working for years to fix.

The stage is now set for our community to lose our exceptional Fire Department.  Current commissioners have lowered expectations for what a small-town department can offer.  They have hired leadership with little experience and the slow recovery from the recent storms are an example of what we have lost.

Do you see a pattern?

Luckily, we have two citizens who are willing to step up, accept responsibility, make decisions and guide our growing town to its future.

They have experience in public service; they have training in emergency management, large budgets, and leadership. Sue Weller has felt compelled to return to office because of the intentional mistruths spoken by our mayor.

Ross Ambrose

High Springs Resident

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To fellow High Springs voters:

I have been a resident of High Springs since 1979 with a unique multi view experience of our City's political climate and government.

Back in the 1980s, I worked as a paralegal for the then High Springs City Attorney. Decades later, my husband served on the High Springs Commission and later became City Attorney for High Springs before the City's current legal counsel. I have spent the past 28 years working for a local developer and real estate investor managing both residential apartments and professional commercial properties in the City of High Springs.

Over the decades, I have witnessed Commissions that have operated as a cohesive body following the Charter, working with the City Manager, and conducting City business with thoughtful, well versed and trained leadership. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed Commissions that have been riddled with partisanship, discourse, and lack of training trying to manage staff at City Hall and make decisions outside of the Commission as a whole.

Unfortunately, we are again experiencing this type of local government climate. Our City is in crisis. The turnover rate from the number of employees leaving the City has resulted in great inefficiency in services to our citizens, not to mention the lack of transparency within our government causing many citizens to be uninformed at best or ill-informed at worst.

We need proven, experienced non-partisan leadership, and that is why I am endorsing Sue Weller for Seat #5 for the High Springs City Commission. As many voters know, Sue served on the Commission from 2010 through 2016.

What voters may not know is that Sue has stayed continually engaged in the governance of High Springs. She has served on multiple boards as well as faithfully followed the City Commission meetings live or online. Her depth of knowledge around our Charter and our history regarding planned responsible growth are pluses in a time when there are many gaps in our City's continuity in leadership.

Sue's professionalism and ability to stay neutral while listening to our citizens is refreshing and supportive of the direction we want to take our City.

A vote for Sue Weller provides an opportunity to begin to restore and rebuild the City's reputation and service to our residents; supports a healthy cohesive working environment for City staff; and strongly sends the message that we believe our commissioners should be willing to attend Florida League of Cities training programs for new commissioners as well as continuing education classes for current commissioners.

I personally am grateful that Sue Weller is willing to serve our community again; especially at a time when we so need proven leadership. I love High Springs and I know that we, as voting citizens, can help our City course correct and return to service and civility. Please join me in making sure this opportunity to have Sue Weller back on the Commission is not missed.

Alvalyn Lancaster

High Springs, Florida 32643

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Tim Marden, Alachua County Republican Chairman, seeks to divide us and spew hatred whenever and wherever he can. He recently sent out a letter concerning the upcoming City Commission election in High Springs. Such elections are non-partisan, i.e., the candidates do not list their political affiliations and a candidate’s party affiliation is not listed on the ballot.

Marden tries to create an issue about Precinct 60 voting place being moved from the 1st Methodist Church to the newly named and remodeled Douglas Community Center. He incorrectly states that Ross Ambrose “quietly initiated” such polling change “earlier this year.”

Mr. Ambrose originally brought this proposed change about four years ago. Polling places are supposed to be in the precinct that they represent. The church is not in Precinct 60. The Douglas Community Center is. Ms. Barton [Alachua County Supervisor of Elections], after the recent renovation of the Center, determined that it is now “a suitable location” in Precinct 60, and moved the polling place to the Center.

Marden questions the “last minute” change, but the renovation was finished only about a month ago and the request to move the polling place from the church originated about four years ago. But don’t let facts get in the way if Marden wants to spew hatred.

He writes that Barton has made two changes that directly affect the votes of Republicans. What about those voters (Republican and Democratic, alike) who live in Precinct 60 and have to drive to the church? No, Marden doesn’t’ care about that. In Marden’s mind Barton’s decision is solely to hinder Republican voters.

Lastly, Marden states that voters in Precinct 60 have to be told of the polling change. I don’t know the date that his letter went out, but voters in Precinct 60 have already received such a notice in the mail.

Marden follows up his imagined tirade with directions to vote for Katherine “against” Sue Weller and Judith Jensen against Kim Barton. Such wording only shows that Marden spews hatred, has no knowledge of the facts (or totally avoids them) and wants to spread his hatred to others. As for Sue Weller’s stand on the issues …. Her campaign sign says it all, “No politics, Just issues.”

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, FL 32643

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Columns2Guest column by Robert W. Wilford 

Probably the majority of Americans agree that the sexual abuse scandal surrounding Penn State University is real and that many innocent children were indeed raped by a monster without Joe Paterno, or anyone else affiliated with this educational institution, having the moral courage to do the right thing.

When Sandusky is found guilty in a Pennsylvania court of law, he will be made to pay for his crimes. Unfortunately, his incarceration will never heal the wounds of the children he sexually abused.

They will undoubtedly be scarred for life and most likely will remember the trauma of this abuse each and every morning of their waking days. I pray that God will grant these precious children and their families healing peace.

Conspiracy theories? There are many. First off, Paterno is a Roman Catholic; I will explain this conspiracy theory later.

Yes, I unashamedly believe Paterno's religious affiliation is undeniably an integral part of the conspiracy theory.

I too am a lifelong Roman Catholic and have sadly come to realize that my church has displayed a total lack of moral courage in addressing clergy sexual abuse issues, not only in the present times, but for many centuries.

Accountability and conscience have been, and are, words without meaning to this powerful religious institution when it comes to dealing with criminal sexual abuse matters confronting it.

Isn't it strange that Paterno failed--lack of accountability and conscience--to report the sexual abuse by Sandusky to the police in 2002 when the Roman Catholic Church all the way to the Vatican was responding to tens of thousands of accusations regarding the cover-up by the church's leaders regarding a great number of its bishops and priests who were pedophiles (pre-puberty victims) or ephebophiles (teenage victims)?

Did "Joe Pa" employ the same "head in the sand" tactic as the hierarchy of his church by not reporting the suspected sexual abuse by Sandusky to the police?

Or worse, did he consult  leaders of the Catholic Church over his decision not to do what was morally and ethically correct? If so, what ill-conceived advice did these "cover-up artists" give him?

Even though Paterno chose not to report Sandusky's despicable behavior back in 2002, he could have, at the very least, not allowed this sexual deviate to be granted campus access for nearly nine more years after he was supposedly observed raping a child in the showers on campus.

What hold did Sandusky have over Paterno and Penn State that would have allowed this sexual pervert open access to the university for nine additional years after being supposedly observed by Mike McQueary raping a young child?

One final conspiracy theory I propose concerns "Joe Pa" being granted the unjust privilege of breaking Eddie Robinson's hallowed Division I record of 408 victories prior to Sandusky being publicly exposed.

It is certainly strange and befuddling to me that the Pennsylvania Attorney General chose not to charge Sandusky until after Paterno achieved win number 409. This Pennsylvania public servant certainly appeared to have sufficient evidence to charge Sandusky well before Paterno achieved this significant milestone.

Is the attorney general's action, or lack thereof, another conspiracy?

What influence did Penn State University officials, the university's many financial benefactors, and/or powerful Pennsylvania politicians and business leaders across the state, have in the Pennsylvania Attorney General's decision in not charging Sandusky prior to Paterno's win number 409?

Was there a deviously covert and unscrupulous attempt by the Pennsylvania Attorney General and/or other co-conspirators to preserve "Joe Pa's" legacy at all costs? It was grossly unfair and an obviously heinous ruse to allow this falsely-proclaimed icon to achieve this tainted accomplishment.

I ponder with tremendous sadness about the victims who were probably sodomized after 2002. Who cared about them and for Sandusky's pre-2002 victims?

Their "409th" victory will simply be living life as best they can in surviving the unspeakable horrors of being abused by Paterno's sexually deviant cohort.

Will we ever be made privy to all of the conspiracies that have transpired regarding Penn State University and this sexual abuse scandal?

Sadly, I doubt it since "lawyerspeak" is already taking hold of the situation.

One indisputable fact remains. The victims of this sexual abuse are real and have been damaged physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually.

I will continue to have tremendous empathy for them in the future and pray for God to grant them courage in facing the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.

Did "Joe Pa" get what he deserved? Yes, by being ignominiously fired in disgrace as the coach of Penn State, he got exactly what he deserved.

On the other hand, did "Joe Pa" deserve to be allowed to coach until reaching victory number 409? No, he did not earn, nor deserve, this high honor because he lacked the guts to take the moral high ground in 2002 in exposing Sandusky's unimaginable sex crimes committed against children.

Sandusky, Spanier, Schultz, Curley, Paterno, McQueary, the other co-conspirators...? I will let the legal system and the court of public opinion decide their fate here on earth and let God judge them in the afterlife.

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