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ALACHUA ‒ Bringing together business leaders in a spirit of collaboration and innovation, the Alachua Chamber of Commerce debuted its inaugural “Breakfast with The Board” on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025.

This new quarterly event set the stage for meaningful connections, offering a unique platform for chamber members to network, engage with leadership, and contribute to shaping the chamber’s vision for the year ahead.

This inaugural event brought together some 100 members, both seasoned and new, for a morning of networking and idea-sharing. Held as the first in a planned series of quarterly gatherings, the breakfast served as a platform for attendees to engage directly with the chamber's board of directors and learn more about the resources and opportunities available through membership.

One of the highlights of the event was a special welcome to the chamber’s newest members, who joined during 2024. For these fresh faces in the area’s business community, the breakfast offered a chance to introduce themselves, showcase their businesses, and connect with other members and chamber leadership.

Adding to the event’s atmosphere was a breakfast feast provided by Susie's Homemade, a local eatery operated out of the Good Life Station located at 14933 Main Street, Alachua. Attendees were treated to an assortment of homemade dishes, including fresh pastries and savory breakfast favorites. Table floral centerpieces were provided by Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rental.

“We’re thrilled to see such a strong turnout for our first Breakfast with The Board,” said Chamber President Adam Boukari. “This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring every member, especially our newest ones, feels supported and engaged.”

New members expressed their enthusiasm about joining the chamber and appreciated the welcoming atmosphere. Several attendees highlighted the value of being able to network in a smaller, more interactive setting, where conversations with board members and other professionals felt more personal.

The breakfast not only served as a networking opportunity but also as a forum for idea exchange. Members shared suggestions on how the chamber can continue delivering value in 2025, with discussions ranging from business development workshops to community outreach initiatives.

As the chamber looks ahead to the coming year, this first breakfast sets the stage for future events in the series. The quarterly gatherings are expected to become a cornerstone of the chamber’s engagement efforts, providing members with ongoing opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow. Boukari said, “It’s about building connections and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. These breakfasts will help us align our efforts with the needs and aspirations of our business community.”

For those unable to attend, the chamber emphasized its ongoing commitment to providing similar opportunities throughout the year. For more information about chamber events or to learn how to get involved, members can visit the Alachua Chamber’s website at alachuachamber.com or contact the chamber office directly at 386-462-3333.

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WALDO ‒ A 41-year-old man was arrested on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, after allegedly assaulting and threatening a woman who had given him temporary shelter in her home. The suspect, identified as Michael Donell Thomas, Jr., faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, battery by strangulation, and false imprisonment.

The victim reportedly allowed Thomas to stay at her house in December 2024, as he claimed to have no place to go. According to the arrest report, tensions escalated after a few days, culminating in a series of violent acts.

The conflict began when the victim returned home with pizza for dinner, and Thomas allegedly accused her of taking too long. He reportedly physically attacked her during the confrontation.

The situation worsened when Thomas became angry over the victim’s plans to go out and a trip he overheard her discussing. At one point, Thomas allegedly punched the victim in the face when she didn’t answer a question to his satisfaction. He also reportedly choked her to the point of cutting off her breath and kicked her in the face.

During the same incident, Thomas allegedly threatened the victim with a box cutter, at one point touching the blade to her face without cutting her. The victim later stated that this threat made her fear for her life and that Thomas could harm her at any time.

Thomas also reportedly told the victim that he would kill her if she called the police.

After a night and day of this, the victim took advantage of a moment of inattention to run and hide in a neighbor’s yard and call 911. Thomas reportedly left in his vehicle before a deputy arrived.

The victim told the responding Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy that when she returned to her house, she found her purse open and keys to her vehicle and house missing, valued at $310. She also reported that Thomas yelled that he would be back before leaving.

When deputies responded, they observed significant facial injuries on the victim and evidence of physical altercations in multiple rooms of the house.

Thomas allegedly caused significant damage to the victim’s property, smashing the screens of every television in her house. The damage was estimated at approximately $1,700.

A sworn complaint was filed following the incident, and a warrant for Thomas’ arrest was issued on Dec. 26, 2024. He was apprehended in Alachua County on Jan. 9, 2025.

Thomas has been charged with Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, Battery by strangulation, False imprisonment, Property damage over $1,000, Battery and Petit theft

According to the arrest report, Thomas has an extensive criminal history, including 10 felony convictions, one of which was violent, and 16 misdemeanor convictions, two of which were violent. He has served four state prison sentences, with his most recent release in June 2023.

Judge Kristine Van Vorst has ordered Thomas to be held without bail pending a hearing on a motion by the State Attorney’s Office to deny bail until trial.

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ALACHUA – The Alachua Police Department has announced Sergeant Carl Newsome as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Officer of the Year Award, recognizing his nearly 27 years of exemplary service and dedication to the City of Alachua.

Sgt. Newsome began his career with the Alachua Police Department on Jan. 22, 1997, and currently serves as a shift supervisor in the Patrol Division. Over the years, he has taken on numerous vital roles within the department, demonstrating his versatility, leadership, and commitment to public safety.

His extensive contributions include serving as the Supervisor of the Traffic Unit, Supervisor of the K-9 Unit, and a member of the FDLE-sponsored Statewide Narcotics Task Force. He also represented the department in the Regional Domestic Security Task Force in the post-9/11 era and has served as the Event Commander for APD’s annual July 4th Celebration, a major city event.

In its announcement, the Alachua Police Department highlighted Sgt. Newsome’s professionalism, leadership, and dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of Alachua’s residents. His unwavering commitment to the community has made him a respected figure within the department and among the citizens he serves.

Beyond his remarkable career, Sgt. Newsome is known for his passion for cooking and cherishing time with family and friends, further showcasing the well-rounded qualities that define his character.

Sgt. Newsome will be formally honored at the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at Legacy Park, Alachua. This high-profile event will feature Danny Wuerffel, Heisman Trophy winner and celebrated keynote speaker, making the occasion even more memorable.

The gala will bring together community leaders, city officials, and residents to celebrate Sgt. Newsome’s achievements and his ongoing dedication to the City of Alachua.

On behalf of Alachua Police Department Chief Jesse Sandusky, the Alachua Police Department, and the City of Alachua, the department expressed its gratitude to Sgt. Newsome for his outstanding contributions and the positive impact he has made over nearly three decades of service.

The recognition of Sgt. Newsome as the 2024 Officer of the Year underscores the values of professionalism, leadership, and community dedication that the Alachua Police Department strives to uphold.

For more information about the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala or to join in celebrating Sgt. Newsome’s accomplishments, contact the Alachua Police Department or the Alachua Chamber of Commerce.

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NEWBERRY ‒ During the Jan. 13, 2025, City Commission meeting, Mayor Jordan Marlowe officially announced that the City of Newberry's 2025 Municipal Election will take place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The election will determine the mayor and two city commissioners, marking an important opportunity for residents to shape the city’s leadership.

The upcoming election will include three positions: Mayor, currently held by Jordan Marlowe, who will serve a two-year term; Group Four City Commissioner, currently held by Tim Marden, who will also serve a two-year term and Group Five City Commissioner, currently held by Tony Mazon, who will serve a two-year term as well.

The mayor and commissioners play critical roles in overseeing city operations, guiding policy, and representing the interests of the community.

The election will be held at the Mentholee Norfleet Municipal Building, Precinct 6, located at 25420 West Newberry Road. Residents will be able to cast their votes between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Election Day.

Mayor Marlowe also outlined the election team, including Election Clerks, Deputy, and Inspectors, who will manage the voting process and ensure smooth operations.

The qualifying period for candidates interested in running for office begins at noon on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, and ends at noon on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.

Candidates must schedule an appointment with the City Clerk to qualify. Appointments can be made by calling 352-472-2446 or emailing CityClerk@NewberryFL.Gov.

The qualifying fees for Mayor are $155.38, while City Commissioner fees are $144.67

Newberry residents are encouraged to participate in the election process, whether as candidates, voters, or volunteers. For additional information about the election or to inquire about qualifying as a candidate, contact the City Clerk at 352-472-2446 or email CityClerk@NewberryFL.Gov.

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Officer Swearing in Ceremony, Jan. 19, 2025 / Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA COUNTY – Just one day into his tenure after defeating incumbent Sheriff Emery Gainey in a November 2024 election, newly sworn-in Alachua County Sheriff Chad Scott has announced a series of leadership appointments and promotions within the Sheriff’s Office, ushering in a new chapter for the agency.

On Jan. 8, 2025, Sheriff Scott unveiled the names of personnel who have been elevated to positions of greater responsibility.

The promotions span various divisions within the Sheriff’s Office, showcasing a balance of experience and leadership.

Captain Joshua Crews was promoted to Undersheriff, becoming second-in-command and responsible for overseeing the agency’s overall operations and strategic initiatives.

Captain Dorian Keith was promoted to Major and assigned as Jail Director

Lieutenant Christopher Sims rose to the rank of Captain and was assigned to the Public Information and Community Services Division

Captain Jonathan Schabruch was elevated to Major, taking the helm of the Department of Support Services.

Lieutenant Edward Bennett was promoted to Captain and now leads the Patrol Operations Division.

Lieutenant Kenneth “Jason” Cruse advanced to Captain with the assignment of Deputy Director of the Department of the Jail, working closely with Major Keith.

Several promotions were made within the Department of Operations to bolster the Sheriff’s Office's ability to respond to community needs.

Sergeant Michael Hurlocker was promoted to Lieutenant, joining the Patrol Operations Division.

Sergeant Fred “Todd” Thomas III was also promoted to Lieutenant, serving in the Patrol Operations Division.

Deputy Maddison Telle was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to the Department of Operations Patrol Operation Division.

Deputy Christopher Dasher was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to the Department of Operations Patrol Operation Division.

The Sheriff’s Office also recognized the contributions of staff in administrative and jail operations.

Classification Caseworker Reshone Flanders was promoted to Contract Monitor in the Department of the Jail

Senior Executive Assistant to the Sheriff Courtney Barreca was promoted to Deputy Director in the Department of Administrative Services

Scott was sworn into office on Jan. 7, 2025, continuing the law enforcement career he began in 1990 at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, later serving as Chief of Police in the City of Alachua from 2014 to 2022. Scott later returned to the Sheriff’s Office as the Major of Operations and was promoted to Colonel, overseeing areas such as patrol, investigations and community outreach.

In a news release about staff promotions and assignments, the Sheriff’s Office stated, “We know you will continue to make us proud, and serve the citizens of Alachua County and our agency with dignity and grace.”

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Photo special to Alachua County Today

WALDO ‒ Units from Alachua County Fire Rescue, with assistance from the Windsor and Melrose Fire Departments, responded to a significant residential fire on Kennard Street at approximately 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. The fire, which fully engulfed a two-story house, caused road closures and prompted a swift, coordinated firefighting effort.

Upon arrival, the first fire unit encountered a severe blaze, with the second floor of the residence consumed by flames and fire spreading rapidly to the structure's exterior. Power lines near the home also caught fire, further complicating the situation and adding to the hazards faced by firefighters.

Fire crews immediately deployed an offensive strategy while maintaining a defensive approach to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby properties. Their efforts were focused on the front side of the structure, where flames were most intense.

Fortunately, all occupants of the home were able to exit the building safely before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported among residents or first responders.

By 4 p.m., the fire was fully extinguished. Following an investigation by the Fire Marshal, the cause of the fire was determined to be a space heater, a common fire hazard during colder months. The incident serves as a reminder for residents to exercise caution when using heating devices, ensuring they are properly maintained and positioned away from flammable materials.

Due to the fire and related safety concerns, Waldo Road experienced significant traffic disruption throughout the day. Power lines damaged in the fire further complicated the situation. By 4:30 p.m., one southbound lane of Waldo Road had reopened, though crews continued to monitor the area and work to restore normal traffic flow.

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