HIGH SPRINGS ‒ Just before 5 a.m. on Friday, June 7, the High Springs Fire Department experienced a heartwarming and extraordinary event. Firefighters sprang into action to deliver a baby girl in the station parking lot, turning an ordinary morning into a memorable occasion.

The journey of this miraculous delivery began when mom, dad and their soon-to-be daughter were en route to UF Health Shands from the Live Oak area. Realizing that they wouldn't make it in time, they swiftly dialed 911, informing operators that they were moments away from the High Springs Fire Department.

Under the command of Captain Andy Burkhalter, the crew recognized the urgency of the situation and prepared for the imminent arrival. Firefighter (FF)/Paramedic Jon Friend, alongside FF/Paramedic Jake Rhoden, skillfully assisted in safely delivering the baby, who was born at approximately 33 weeks, into the world. FF/EMT Clinton Drake expertly applied cord clamps, while FF/Paramedic Doug Hope aided the new father in cutting the cord. The joy and relief on the faces of the parents were palpable as they welcomed their newborn daughter.

Following the delivery, mother and baby were transported to the hospital by Alachua County Fire Rescue to ensure they received further medical care.

“After the baby was born, I was speechless,” FF/Paramedic Jon Friend expressed while reflecting on the extraordinary event. “It was an emotion you rarely feel with the job,” said Friend. “It's not every day you get to deliver a baby.” Friend's sentiment echoed that of the entire crew, who found immense fulfillment in making a positive impact on the lives of others.

The High Springs Fire Department has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the new parents and wishes them a lifetime of joy and happiness with their newest family member.

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HIGH SPRINGS ‒ Local families and friends came out to play at the 4^th Annual Kiwanis Family and Friends Mini Golf Tournament, held on May 4, 2024, at the Pink Flamingo Diner. There were five specialty holes for a chance to win cash, ice cream, and free mini golf game certificates.

Seventeen teams showed up for fun and excitement and friendly competition in the Family, Adult and City divisions. Teams consisted of four player and their total scores were added together to determine their finale score.

The Adult competition ended with two teams, the Redeemers and Decades, tied for first place. The Redeemers redeemed themselves, after a loss to Decades in last year’s tournament, in an extra hole playoff. The Winners team took third place.

Another tie for first in the Family competition between the Patriots and Gators ended with Gators winning in the extra hole playoff. The Honey Bees took third place.

In the City competition, the High Springs Fire Department held on to the trophy they won last year by defeating the High Springs Police Department by 23 strokes.

This event was sponsored by: The Pink Flamingo Diner, Portaserve, Cutter Networks, Inc., Waste Pro, Alachua Today Newspaper, The Kronholm Family, The Barber Group, Hilife Projects, Johns Autobody, Campus USA Credit Union, Decades on Main, Thomas R. Weller Esq. and Drop Top Customs.

Tournament prizes for first second and third place were donated by local business: Watershed Restaurant, Florida Creamery, Unique Notions, New York Pizza Plus, Steak-Out, Hardees, Jewelry Works, High Springs Brewing Company, Winn Dixie, Publix Supermarkets and Mrs. Dorsey Travis.

Funds from this event are used immediately for support of needy children and families in Alachua and High Springs

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ALACHUA ‒ This past weekend, the City of Alachua’s Recreation & Culture Department and District 5 hosted the highly anticipated first round of All-Star play for youth ages 4 to 15. The event, held across multiple venues including the Hal Brady Recreation Complex, the baseball park at downtown Skinner Field, and Preacher Copland Field at Progress Park, saw participation from over 40 teams.

These teams hailed from various areas, including Alachua/High Springs, Newberry, Palatka, Bradford, Chiefland, Gainesville, Wriggly, Williston, Keystone, Melrose, Bronson, and Archer.

The tournament was marked by sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication, leaving a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike. The local volunteers, coaches, and officials played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event and in creating unforgettable memories for all involved. Congratulations and best of luck to the teams advancing to the Florida State Championship Round.

In addition to the sports festivities, the City of Alachua also organized a trip for its senior citizens. Last week, a group of the city’s golden agers embarked on an enriching journey to St. Augustine, Florida. The trip, which included lunch, sightseeing, strolling, shopping, and bonding, was a resounding success, thanks to the assistance and coordination of Crafty Gemini. This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to provide quarterly adventures for local senior citizens.

Looking ahead, the City of Alachua is set to offer more exciting recreational opportunities. The 399 Sports & Recreation Basketball Academy will be hosting two three-week sessions, promising a mix of fun, skill-building, and competitive games for young basketball enthusiasts. Additionally, on June 22, the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center will host the Saucy Elite Basketball Camp, featuring two-time Gainesville Sun Player of the Year Don’Trell Jenkins and other local basketball legends. These events aim to nurture young talent and provide enriching experiences for the community.

For more information on upcoming activities and programs, residents can contact the City of Alachua’s Recreation & Culture Department at recreation@cityofalachua.org or call the Legacy Multipurpose Center at 386-454-0145. Those interested in the basketball camp can reach out to 399 Sports & Recreation via email at 399sportsrecreation@gmail.com.

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