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ALACHUA ‒ With laughter echoing across the rolling pastures of Valley View, the Alachua Lions Club marked a major milestone on March 25, 2025, with its 85th annual Cattlemen’s Banquet — the longest-running Lions Club fundraising event in Florida.

The signature event, now held at Valley View at Santa Fe River Ranch, drew more than 400 attendees for an evening of celebration, charity, and camaraderie. From its humble beginnings in 1940, the banquet has grown into a cornerstone of community support, channeling all proceeds into local sight, hearing, youth, and service initiatives.

This year’s crowd enjoyed a festive cocktail hour on the veranda, where scenic views of oak-dotted fields set the tone for the night ahead. Inside the main hall, Alachua Lions Club President Jack Zuidema opened the formal program, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Lions District Governor Greg Seltzer. Longtime member Bill Johnson led a heartfelt rendition of “God Bless America,” and Seltzer returned to deliver the invocation.

The evening’s host, real estate broker and former Alachua City Commissioner Ben Boukari, Jr., served as Master of Ceremonies. Boukari’s lighthearted jabs and well-timed jokes kept the audience in good spirits, earning chuckles throughout the room.

Headlining the night was award-winning Nashville comedian and musician Jonnie W., whose guitar-infused comedy had the crowd roaring with laughter. His blend of storytelling and stand-up added a fresh twist to the evening’s entertainment lineup.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Cattleman of the Year award to Bob Crane, a respected figure in Alachua County’s ranching community. Surrounded by family and members of First Baptist Church of Alachua, Crane accepted the honor for his longstanding contributions to Florida’s cattle industry.

The night also included a silent auction, once again sponsored by the Alachua Woman’s Club, a dedicated partner of the Lions Club. Guests feasted on a hearty spread featuring aged, flavor-packed steaks, loaded potato casserole, fresh salad, and decadent desserts — all with assistance from the Santa Fe High School FFA Chapter, honoring the banquet’s agricultural roots.

The origins of the Cattlemen’s Banquet trace back to a small but impactful gesture in 1940, when Alachua Lions members rallied to support the Alachua High School FFA by bidding on a student-raised steer. That simple act of generosity sparked a tradition that now attracts dignitaries, ranchers, and residents alike. Past events have featured notable speakers such as President Jimmy Carter and Florida Governors Lawton Chiles, Bob Graham, and Buddy MacKay.

As the curtain closes on its 85th year, the Cattlemen’s Banquet remains a beloved celebration of community, heritage, and philanthropy — and plans are undoubtedly underway for its 86th return, promising more laughter, good food, and goodwill.

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ALACHUA ‒ Former Alachua County Sheriff Clovis Watson Jr. will not face criminal prosecution following a decision by State Attorney John F. Durrett of the 3rd Judicial Circuit.

In a letter dated Feb. 19, 2025, to Inspector David Snowden of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Orlando Regional Operations Center, Durrett stated there was insufficient evidence to support two criminal charges brought against Watson.

The case was reassigned to Durrett’s office after 8th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Brian Kramer cited a conflict of interest. The FDLE submitted its investigative report to Durrett following the reassignment by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The investigation focused on two potential offenses: interception of privileged communications and official misconduct.

On the first charge, Durrett said the only supporting evidence was the testimony of an immunized witness, Capt. Kutner, who alleged he was directed by Undersheriff Joel Decoursey to monitor and intercept privileged communications. Kutner claimed he relayed the content of the intercepted communications to both Decoursey and Watson. A lieutenant reportedly stated in a sworn affidavit that “they” had personally witnessed Kutner conducting the monitoring.

However, the FDLE report noted that Kutner “was the only Chief Inspector of the five that were interviewed to report being instructed to do so,” according to Durrett’s letter.

“The entire charge rests upon the immunized testimony of a singular witness,” Durrett wrote. “The Sheriff and Undersheriff can simply deny or not speak at all,” he added, concluding the allegation “cannot be proven beyond and to the exclusion of a reasonable doubt.”

On the second charge of official misconduct, Durrett found a lack of evidence to implicate Watson. The FDLE investigation revealed a sergeant in the sheriff’s office had unlawfully recorded a phone conversation with an attorney. The recording was later given to the attorney, who alerted the agency to the violation, pointing out that the law enforcement exception did not apply.

“Here, the Sergeant simply made an error in believing that the same exceptions applicable to criminal investigations applied in internal investigations,” Durrett wrote. “The Sergeant was disciplined for the error. This action stands in contrast to Captain Kutner who indicated he was directed to unlawfully intercept communications involving the same attorney.”

Durrett also declined to pursue charges related to the destruction of the recording or orders to destroy it, citing a lack of evidence tying Watson to the act.

“All sides agree the conversation should not have been recorded,” Durrett wrote. “A copy was provided to the attorney who was recorded. The officer was disciplined…without evidence to implicate Mr. Watson in the destruction a criminal charge cannot ethically be filed.”

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ALACHUA ‒ The City of Alachua welcomed dozens of local residents and business owners to Alachua’s Theatre Park on Main Street March 27, 2025, to celebrate the receipt of a $50,000 grant from T-Mobile. Alachua was one of just 25 municipalities to receive the Mobile Hometown Grant this year. According to a T-Mobile representative who presented the ceremonial check, the City of Alachua is the only in the greater central Florida area to receive one of these grants from T-Mobile.

Alachua’s Community Redevelopment Agency Coordinator Susan King has been applying on behalf of the City for the grant for three years. The grant will add funds to help fulfill a growing list of plans for renovations in Theatre Park.

A plan to refresh and reimagine the City of Alachua’s iconic park has been underway for more than a year. On Alachua’s picturesque Main Street, the hidden gem known best as “Theatre Park” has seen better years. An overgrowth of vines, a dilapidated arbor, and structural uncertainty have left the park in a less attractive condition.

A variety of designs for the park’s renovations were presented in May 2024 by Monarch Design Group. Among the plans were two overall design themes for the entryway to the park. The City settled on a black powder coated façade for a wrought iron appearance in the gap above the front wall and the archways.

In addition to entryway designs, Monarch Design Group also presented a variety of accompanying interior elements for the park, such as brick pavers, new lighting, a stage, seating, and Florida friendly landscaping.

As a result of the deteriorating conditions within the park, the initial priority in the redesign are the structural elements. Without a roof over the park, rainfall can become trapped and potentially seep through into adjoining buildings. Use of landscaping requiring irrigation in the park exacerbates flooding concerns. Vines posed a risk of damage to the historic brick walls. The arbor, which once served as a tranquil and picturesque backdrop appears to be on the verge of collapse. Hosting live music in the park is untenable without sufficient shade and protection from the elements.

The multiphase renovations will include a small stage with handicap access and the flexibility to install a temporary overhead screen or shield to protect performers from the elements. To increase the viability as study, lunch, relaxation, and gathering space, additional but limited seating is also planned.

When initially assessed in 2024, Assistant City Manager Rodolfo Valladares, who is a Professional Engineer, said the City was planning to develop solutions to divert or dispose of rainwater, possibly using a French drain system. Valladares commented that the projected cost of dealing with the structural concerns together with needed renovations to other elements of the park vastly exceed the CRA’s budgeted $150,000, noting that it would likely become a multiphase project, with solutions starting from “the ground up.”

Located at 14900 Main Street in the heart of downtown, what is now an openair park was once a drycleaner and then a movie house, according to a walking tour developed in 1986 by Alachua County Historical Commission and the Alachua County Tour Service.

In March 2011, the Alachua City Commission authorized structural modifications to Theatre Park in order to make the structure safer. For several months, the park remained closed as a scaffolding system was installed over the brick archways on the streetside opening where there were structural concerns over the ability of the entry to withstand high wind loads.

The 2011 project included removing the top portion of the walls to reduce the wind load on the structure as a whole. The removal included the top 12 feet from the front wall and up to six feet from the side walls.

A report from Driscoll Engineering at the time stated that the outer walls of the theatre park constituted an “immediate safety hazard” because of the lack of support and risk of falling debris. The scaffolding system was a temporary measure to protect pedestrian traffic until more lasting repairs could be completed.

Costing in excess of $40,000, the renovations, which included repairs to the east wall of the park, construction of two new columns and reinforced fiberglass rods, were paid for by the Downtown Redevelopment Trust board (DRTB), which was the City’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) at the time.

The park, which is frequently used for special occasions and is one of the most photographed spots in Alachua was reopened in June 2011.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs City Commission met Thursday, March 27, 2025, to address several new business items, including awarding a contract for a fire station HVAC replacement, approving two commercial site plans, and discussing a potential $260,000 repayment related to the purchase of Canoe Outpost.

Vice Mayor Andrew Miller presided over the meeting in the absence of Mayor Tristan Grunder.

Commissioners unanimously awarded a contract for the replacement of the fire station’s HVAC system to Crystal Air and Water, Inc., the lowest of two bidders at $109,823. Shine and Company, Inc. also submitted a proposal in response to the city’s request.

The commission also unanimously approved a site plan for Whitfield Window & Door, which will construct a 9,500-square-foot office and warehouse facility in the High Springs Industrial Park. The proposal was presented by city planning technician Kristyn Adkins.

Adkins also presented a site plan for a new McDonald’s restaurant to be located at 20410 N. U.S. Highway 441, adjacent to Tractor Supply. Craig McDonald appeared before the commission to summarize the project and answer questions. The proposed 3,859-square-foot fast food restaurant will include a drive-thru and is expected to employ approximately 60 people.

McDonald outlined planned road modifications to accommodate increased traffic, including the addition of a turn lane, median upgrades, and road widening along U.S. 441.

Residents voiced concerns over potential noise—particularly from truck traffic—and lighting. McDonald responded that a substantial tree and plant buffer will be installed and that lighting will be focused inward, away from neighboring properties.

Commissioner Katherine Weitz left the meeting before the McDonald’s presentation; the site plan was approved by a 4–0 vote.

In other business, City Manager Jeremy Marshall informed the commission of a possible repayment of $260,000 in Wild Spaces & Public Places funds used toward the purchase of Canoe Outpost. Marshall said Alachua County had notified the city earlier in the day about the issue.

Marshall noted the matter was still in early negotiations and expressed hope that, if repayment is necessary, the city would not have to return the full amount immediately. He added that he and the city’s finance director were reviewing options with the county and would provide updates as discussions continue.

When asked if selling the Canoe Outpost property could resolve the situation, Marshall said he did not believe that was an option. However, the city attorney stated they would review the purchase agreement and closing documents to determine what legal options may exist.

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ALACHUA ‒ Courage and service to others were at the heart of the Santa Fe Babe Ruth Softball and Baseball 2025 Spring Opening Ceremonies, held Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex Pavilion Field.

The event drew hundreds of attendees, including city officials, Santa Fe High School baseball and softball coaches, and players.

This year’s ceremonies were dedicated to Nathan “Nate” Blair and his family in recognition of their courage and commitment to cancer awareness in the High Springs and Alachua communities. Blair, a former Santa Fe Babe Ruth and Santa Fe High School baseball player, died of cancer in August 2024 at the age of 23 after a four-year battle.

Blair was remembered not only for his accomplishments on the field, including playing a pivotal role in the 2014 National Babe Ruth World Series where the team finished third overall, but also for his bravery, kindness and compassion. His fight inspired a community-wide movement, “Fight With Nate,” bringing together volunteers, coaches, friends and families in support.

During the ceremony, a speaker described cancer in the Blair family’s life as an “unexpected intruder” that caused chaos but never diminished their authenticity or strength. The community continues to honor Blair’s memory as a source of inspiration and resilience.

Blair was posthumously awarded the Nathan “Nate” Blair 2025 Jamboree Memorial Recognition Award, which read, in part: “In grateful recognition of Nathan Blair for his significant impact he has made to rally support for cancer awareness in the High Springs and Alachua community. He demonstrated grit, and his scars represented survival. The community continues to Fight With Nate.”

Also recognized during the ceremonies was the late Willis “Ray” Gallop, who was honored with the Golden Eagle Lifetime Award for decades of service to the Alachua and High Springs communities. Gallop, who died in February 2022, and his wife, Cindy, dedicated more than 30 years to volunteering in baseball and basketball during their 46 years of marriage. His legacy continues through his children and their spouses, who remain active in local youth sports.

John DePaola received the Hal Brady Award, presented annually to a Santa Fe Babe Ruth participant who best embodies Brady’s longstanding commitment to community recreation. DePaola has coached for more than 15 years and umpired for over 30 years, becoming a staple of the Santa Fe Babe Ruth community.

While baseball and softball kicked off their seasons, the Santa Fe Soccer Alliance also launched its 2025 Spring Season on Saturday at Legacy’s Multipurpose Fields. More than 300 youth players participated in games throughout the day.

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ALACHUA ‒ The City of Alachua will hold its 2025 municipal election on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, to fill Seat 1 for Mayor and Seat 2 for City Commissioner. Incumbent Mayor Gib Coerper is seeking re-election and is being challenged by Walter Welch. Incumbent Edward Potts is being challenged by Jacob Fletcher as they vie for a three-year term ending in April 2028.

Coerper, retired, previously served as a commissioner from 1999-2002. He has been in his current seat since 2005 although Seat 1 was not designated as the mayoral seat until 2010. No one challenged Coerper for the mayoral seat in 2022. As of March 27, Coerper had raised $2,200 in monetary campaign contributions.

Walter Welch, who is challenging Coerper, is a newcomer to elected office, but he has previously served on an advisory taskforce board. Welch’s campaign finance reports show little activity, with only $425 in contributions as of February 20, but nothing since that time.

Ed Potts has been in Seat 2 on the commission since winning in the 2022 cycle. Prior to winning the election in 2022, Potts was a member of the City of Alachua Planning & Zoning Board. He is retired from the insurance and financial advisor industry. As of March 27, Potts raised $9,660 in monetary campaign contributions. Potts is being challenged by newcomer Jacob Fletcher, employed by the University of Florida. As of March 26, Fletcher raised $3,803 in monetary campaign contributions.

Polls will be open on Tuesday, April 8, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Legacy Park Multipurpose Center , Cleather Hathcock, Sr. Community Center and the Clubhouse at Turkey Creek.

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