L-R: Alachua Chamber President Adam Boukari and Chamber Big Business of the Year recipient Scherer Construction / Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 Annual Gala on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, delivering a night of celebration, community, and excitement that will not soon be forgotten. Held at Alachua’s Legacy Park, the signature event attracted nearly 700 attendees, with glowing 3-D marquee letters spelling out “Alachua” as a fitting backdrop to an evening honoring the Chamber’s accomplishments and promising future.

The gala, a cornerstone of the Chamber’s calendar, serves as an opportunity to recognize businesses, volunteers, and sponsors that contribute to the growth and prosperity of the region. It also allowed the Chamber to highlight the year’s achievements while unveiling goals for 2025.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., courtesy of Tri-Eagle and Beaker and Flask Wine Co., which set the stage for the festivities. At 6:45 p.m., guests indulged in a surf-and-turf dinner served by Beyond Expectations, capped off with desserts sponsored by Colliers International Real Estate.

The entertainment was as dazzling as the evening itself. The Dance Alive National Ballet opened the show with a breathtaking performance. But the true crowd-pleaser was a surprise appearance by Sister Hazel, the platinum-selling band from Gainesville. Founding members Ken Block and Drew Copeland, joined by keynote speaker and 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel on keyboard, had the crowd singing along to hits and requesting favorites.

Former Chamber President and current board member Mitch Glaeser took the reins as master of ceremonies, bringing both humor and heartfelt admiration to the role. Glaeser introduced Scherer Construction, the event’s title sponsor for the second consecutive year, and delighted the audience with a guided video tour of Alachua’s thriving business community—delivered on horseback, no less. To the crowd’s delight, Glaeser also appeared in a horse costume on stage.

Outgoing Chamber President Adam Boukari took the opportunity to thank the Chamber’s Sustaining Members, a distinguished group of businesses, organizations and individuals whose ongoing support drives the Chamber’s mission. Boukari emphasized the collective effort behind the Chamber’s successes, noting, “It took a team of dedicated individuals who gave their time and resources to make the Chamber a vibrant resource for local businesses.”

Among the honored Sustaining Members that continue to strengthen the region’s business environment were City of Alachua, San Felasco Tech City, Alachua Commerce Center, Renasant Bank, Campus USA, Scherer Construction, University of Florida, Santa Fe College, UF Innovate, Concept Companies, Fletcher Family Companies, G & C Foods, Tara Forest, Tower Hill Insurance Group and Jerry Smith Family.

The gala also celebrated outstanding individuals and organizations within the community. The Alachua Police Department recognized Sgt. Carl Newsome as Officer of the Year for his unwavering commitment to law enforcement and community service. Local favorite Mi Apa Latin Café was named Small Business of the Year, while

. Michele Lee, recognized as Chamber Volunteer of the Year, received heartfelt applause for her tireless efforts.

Outgoing President Boukari delivered his final address, reflecting on a year that saw the Chamber double its membership and strengthen its role as a vital resource for businesses. Boukari’s service and dedication were celebrated with a parting gift: a newly minted silver bar, presented by incoming Chamber President Elliot Welker.

The gala also featured an exciting live auction led by City Manager Mike DaRoza. Among the sought-after items were footballs signed by all three University of Florida Heisman Trophy winners—Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, and Tim Tebow—and an original art piece titled “Baby Danny Wuerffel” by Atlanta-based artist Reuben Watson.

Keynote speaker Danny Wuerffel brought both humor and inspiration to the evening. Reflecting on his journey as a UF quarterback who led the Gators to their first National Championship in 1997, Wuerffel shared amusing anecdotes and heartfelt insights into his current role as Executive Director of Desire Street Ministries, a nonprofit organization focused on community transformation.

The gala also included the announcement of the 2025 Board of Directors, Mitch Glaeser, Ed Potts, David Pope, Zak Seymoure, Neil Burk, Jerry Smith, Jovante Hayes, Joe Hancock, Flo Hester, Shasta Schoellhorn, Michele Lee, Shelley Vickers, Kyla Frye, Steve Szabo, Daurine Wehbe, Adam Boukari and President Elliott Welker.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala was more than an event—it was a celebration of community, collaboration, and the promise of a bright future for Alachua. From the lively entertainment to the heartfelt recognition of local heroes, it truly was a night to remember.

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Photo special to Alachua County Today / A creative puppet show by students in the local Music and Arts Program engaged youngsters in the teachings of Dr. King.

ALACHUA – More than six decades after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech on a sweltering August day in Washington, D.C., his legacy continues to inspire people across the nation. From the monumental March on Washington in 1963 to the frosty morning of Alachua’s 20^th Annual MLK Celebration in 2025, the dream of equality and justice remains alive, uniting communities in remembrance and hope. More than 150 people attended the event to honor Dr. King's legacy.

The City of Alachua held its celebration at Alachua’s Legacy Park Multipurpose Center beginning at 10 a.m. Just as King captivated a nation with his words in 1963, Alachua’s celebration featured inspiring speeches and performances that carried forward his message. Six-time Grammy Award nominee Vickie Winans headlined the event, delivering a soul-stirring musical performance and a keynote address that left attendees both moved and motivated. Her dynamic presence brought energy and inspiration, echoing King’s ability to uplift a crowd.

Joining community members in the remembrance celebration were City of Alachua elected officials Mayor Gib Coerper and City Commissioners Shirley Green Brown and Dayna Williams and City Manager Mike DaRoza and Assistant City Manager Rodolfo Valladares.

The celebration also featured performances by University of Florida student Frantz Emmanuel and a creative puppet show by students in the local Music and Arts Program, showcasing the contributions of young people—a reminder of King’s belief in the power of youth to drive change. Students delighted attendees with the engaging show, a heartwarming family play filled with laughter, love, and inspiration.

There were additional performances including singer Caitlyn Phillips, the Alachua Cha Chas and Smooth Flava Dance.

Leading up to the event, Gainesville’s Cultural Affairs Manager and event committee member Carol Richardson said, “This celebration will be nothing short of spectacular and memorable. With the addition of Vickie Winans this year, you will not want to miss this celebration.”

In both moments — separated by over six decades — the act of gathering in King’s name reflects his enduring belief in the power of community. Just as the 1963 March on Washington ended with calls for unity, equality, and justice, Alachua’s MLK Day celebration concluded with a shared community meal, offering attendees a chance to reflect, connect, and celebrate together.

“Our Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations are a cherished tradition in Alachua, and this year was no exception,” said Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper. “Each year, the event grows more meaningful as we come together as a community to honor Dr. King’s legacy.

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Teddy Sanchez leads the ABL Workshop AI for Small Business held at Optimal Station - Good Life Cafe /Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Business League (ABL) continued its Business Success Series on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, hosting a workshop focused on helping small businesses harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This event, titled “Empowering Small Businesses to Thrive by Using AI,” drew a diverse crowd to Good Life Station, eager to learn how emerging technologies can enhance their operations and drive growth.

The featured speaker, Teddy Sanchez of Optimal Station, delivered a comprehensive presentation on how AI tools can be utilized by small businesses to streamline processes, improve customer engagement, and gain a competitive edge.

Attendees, which included local entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners, were not only introduced to AI concepts but also encouraged to share their own experiences with technology.

This workshop is the second in ABL’s Business Success Series, a year-long program aimed at equipping local businesses and professionals with skills and knowledge to adapt to changing market trends. The series offers a mix of workshops and networking opportunities, all designed to foster innovation and collaboration among the Alachua business community.

There are five more workshops scheduled for 2025, each covering a different topic critical to small business success. The ABL encourages anyone interested in growing their business or expanding their professional skill set to attend these events. Details on future workshops can be found on the organization’s website at www.AlachuaBusiness.com, or by contacting them via email at Alachua.Business@gmail.com.

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Photo special to Alachua County Today

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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