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ALACHUA ‒ With the opening of Alachua County public schools just days away, many parents and caregivers are scrambling to gather school supplies for their students. To assist the community, the Alachua Police Department (APD) hosted a “Back 2 School Giveaway” on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

The event took place at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex from 10 a.m. to noon. Officers, along with volunteer assistants, distributed around 300 backpacks and school supplies. The APD has declared the event a resounding success.

“Because of your incredible support, we were able to provide over 300 backpacks and essential school supplies to our community's children,” said an APD spokesperson. “Together, we are giving our kids the necessities they need to thrive and succeed in the upcoming school year. Let's keep the momentum going and continue to invest in their bright futures.”

APD also expressed gratitude to this year's sponsors, which included the Alachua Raiders, Walmart Distribution Center, Dollar General of Alachua, Sysco Distribution Center, Children's Trust of Alachua County, Hitchcock's Markets, and the City of Alachua Recreation & Culture Department for hosting the event.

The “Back 2 School Giveaway” is an example of community spirit and dedication to ensuring that all students have the tools they need for a successful academic year.

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ALACHUA ‒ While the Alachua-High Springs area is renowned for its stunning springs that draw visitors from around the globe, there’s another natural marvel that captivates thousands of passersby on I-75 and U.S. Highway 441. Nestled in southern Alachua County, Payne’s Prairie Preserve State Park stands as a shining example of Florida’s rich ecological and geological diversity.

Payne’s Prairie Preserve State Park stands as a testament to Florida’s diverse natural beauty. This expansive 22,000-acre park, often referred to simply as Payne’s Prairie, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the state's ecological and geological richness.

The park offers visitors an opportunity to explore its natural beauty through a network of trails and boardwalks. The park features several hiking and biking trails that wind through its varied landscapes. The 16-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, which runs through the park, offers an excellent opportunity for cyclists and walkers to experience the area’s diverse environments.

One of the park's most popular attractions is the observation tower located near the park's entrance. The tower provides panoramic views of the prairie, allowing visitors to take in the expansive vistas and spot wildlife from a higher vantage point. The experience is especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light casts a magical glow over the landscape.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Payne’s Prairie a paradise. The park is home to an impressive array of avian species, including the majestic American bald eagle, the stately sandhill crane, and the vibrant roseate spoonbill. These and other bird species make the park a must-visit destination for nature lovers throughout the year.

Among the park’s other wildlife attractions, the numerous alligators are particularly popular. These reptiles, often seen cruising partially submerged in the park’s waterways, provide a thrilling sight for visitors.

But Payne’s Prairie is not just a recreational haven as it also plays a critical role in regional ecology. The park’s wetlands are essential for water filtration, flood control, and groundwater recharge.

The park also provides a range of amenities, including hiking and biking trails, campsites with electric and water hookups, primitive and equestrian camping, fishing, and geo-seeking opportunities. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely stroll, an adventurous bike ride, or a serene camping experience, Payne’s Prairie has something to offer.

Open year-round from 8 a.m. until sundown, Payne’s Prairie Preserve State Park offers an affordable outing for everyone. Entrance fees are just $6 per vehicle (for two to eight people), $4 for single occupant vehicles, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and additional passengers in vehicles with an Annual Individual Entrance Pass holder. This affordable pricing makes the park a great value compared to many other attractions.

For those planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check the park’s website for up-to-date information on trail conditions, guided tours, and special events. Visit https://www.floridastateparks.org/and navigate to Payne’s Prairie Preserve State Park for more details. The park’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife are sure to provide a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ Like a long-lost relative making a welcome return, the beloved Canoe Outpost in High Springs is once again open to the public. This time, the community hopes the iconic spot is here to stay. The City of High Springs purchased the property in August 2021 from Jim and Sally Wood, who had run the business for over 30 years, transforming it into a favorite launch site for river trips among locals and tourists.

Following the purchase, the city contracted Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures (AOA) to manage day-to-day operations. However, the arrangement ended when it was discovered that AOA was primarily launching their vessels from other locations. In May 2023, then City Manager Ashley Stathatos announced the Canoe Outpost would transition to a city park open to the public.

At a June 2023 Commission meeting, issues surrounding the recreation area, which provides access to the Santa Fe River, were discussed. Commissioner Tristan Grunder suggested the City consider selling the facility, a sentiment echoed by then Commissioner and current Mayor Katherine Weitz. Stathatos highlighted the escalating costs of replacing the dock and the wooden walking path to the river, including a significant rise in insurance costs. City staff recommended pausing the project while seeking additional funding and exploring other options.

Fast forward to Monday, July 29, 2024, and the Canoe Outpost is once again up and running and welcoming to the public. And, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department has already made several improvements to the facility and will be housed in the Canoe Outpost building.

Parks and Recreation Department Director Jennifer Applebee shared her enthusiasm for what is now an area with limited access to the river as well as future plans for a picturesque launching pad to the Santa Fe River.

Currently river access is available for fishing or paddling and kayak launches. The old boardwalk has been removed, but river access can be made along a path on land. The public is cautioned to watch for Cypress Knees and use extreme caution when accessing the water and wear a lifejacket.

Applebee says they can already accommodate kayak launches for individuals who bring their own kayaks, and they will be making ongoing upgrades to the facility to include a boardwalk, handicap accessible bathrooms, a dock with a boat launch, and picnic tables.

And while not all planned amenities are currently in place, it will be a work in progress to make all the required repairs and upgrades. “Wild Spaces and Public Places funds are being used to make repairs to the Canoe Outpost facility,” said Applebee.

Applebee encourages the public to visit the Canoe Outpost, which is free, and check out the City of High Springs’ Facebook page for updates on facilities and programs.

The City’s Canoe Outpost is located at 21410 U.S. Highway 441, High Springs, FL 32643 and is open to the public seven days a week from 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. for fishing, swimming and paddling. The Recreation Department administrative office will be open on-site Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“The Canoe Outpost is the gateway to not just the river, but also to all the beautiful springs in our area,” said Applebee.”

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ On July 14, 2024, at Camp Kulaqua, a 45-year-old woman was saved from a near-drowning incident thanks to the swift actions of four off-duty personnel from the High Springs Fire Department and a vigilant lifeguard.

The woman experienced a sudden medical emergency, causing her to go under the water for about 20 seconds. Fortunately, Lieutenant Kim Wilson, Firefighter Chris Tatum, Chief Joe Peters, Captain Kevin Pearson, and lifeguard Ben Bache were nearby and quickly sprang into action.

When the lifeguard blew the whistle to signal distress, firefighters rushed to help. They found the lifeguard already initiating the rescue and joined in, taking over patient care without hesitation.

Chief Joe Peters described the critical moments, “We assessed the woman's condition as soon as we got her out of the water. At first, we couldn't detect a pulse,” said Chief Peters. “Firefighter Tatum performed chest compressions, and after only four compressions, the woman began coughing up water and regained consciousness.”

The patient was taken to UF Health Shands as a trauma alert due to the time she spent submerged. She remained conscious and breathing during transport, with no additional injuries reported.

“Had the lifeguard and our off-duty guys not acted as quickly as they did, this story may have had a very different ending,” said Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Rivers, who responded to the call.

Camp Kulaqua management praised the collaborative effort, emphasizing the crucial role of preparedness and rapid emergency response. They commended the High Springs Fire Department and lifeguard for their bravery and professionalism, stating that their quick actions undoubtedly saved a life.

“This incident reminds us of the importance of being prepared, acting swiftly in emergencies and swimming in areas with lifeguards,” said High Springs Public Information Officer Kevin Mangan.

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