12 03 15 a
DESCRIPTION
Health, Medicine and Science Reporting entry #1 "Bird, plane or drone?" by Raina Barnett on cover page and continuing on page 5.TRANSCRIPT
www.AlachuaCountyToday.com 25¢Thursday, December 03, 2015Vol. 15 No. 52 Alachua, Florida, two sections
AlachuaCounty
odayTServing the Heartland Communities
8 2015 Alachua Today, Incorporated
Index insideon A2 Alachua Pediatrics & Primary Care
(Adults and Children)Dr. Nasir Ahmed, M.D.Dr. Bilal Khodr, M.D.
(386) 418-000414900 NW 140th Street ● Alachua FL 32615 (Opposite the Library)
CHILDREN ● WOMEN’S HEALTH ● FAMILY PLANNINGWe accept Medicare, Medicaid & All Insurance Plans
New Patients, ADHD/Behavior Problems & Walk-Ins Welcome!
HIGH SPRINGS – The Family Dollar off U.S. Highway 441 in High Springs was robbed at gunpoint Sunday morning at 10:59 a.m.
According to a High Springs Police Department (HSPD) news release, a male suspect entered the store at the checkout area, brandished a firearm and demanded cash from the clerk.
The suspect acquired an undisclosed
ALACHUA COUNTY – If coyotes are here to stay, residents might as well learn to live with them in harmony.
That’s what Lisa Hickey, a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences extension agent, said about the growing sightings of coyotes in every county in Florida, including Alachua.
“You can’t get rid of them or remove them,” Hickey said in a phone interview. “They are wild animals, and we should learn to respect them.”
Coyote sightings are on the rise as their habitat is being compromised, forcing them into more urban areas, Hickey said.
Residents should be aware of them and know what to do if they come into contact with one, she added.
UF professor William Giuliano, an extension specialist and certified wildlife biologist, finished research this year on
ROBBERY:Continued on page A2
Family Dollar robbed at gunpoint
Coyotes a growing problem
By DAVID S. WISENERToday Editor
COYOTES:Continued on page A3
Alachua – Drones were initially created and utilized for military operations and intelligence missions. For the students of Santa Fe High School, they are a learning device that will open pathways to success.
This school year, Santa Fe became one of just 11 high schools in Florida to receive a grant from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the Florida Farm Bureau to teach students to operate Unmanned
Aircraft Systems (UAS)—more commonly known as drones.
According to a news release from Alachua County Public Schools, the school received flying and rolling drones and controllers, drone simulators, training, educational materials and other resources.
“With the certification they could hypothetically go into business on their own or put it on their resumes and go out and get hired as a legitimate, safety-certified operator,” said teacher Bob Howland, who runs the program.
DRONE: Continued on page A5
Bird, plane or drone?
COMMUNITIES IN PROFILE - A SERIES
City of Gainesville Profile
Photos by BOB BROWN/Special to Alachua County TodayThe Baily House is the oldest structure in Gainesville. Construction began in 1848, six years before the City was platted. Major James Bailey owned most of the land on which Gainesville began.
GAINESVILLE – Gainesville is a city birthed in controversy and political machinations.
The principle town in Alachua County throughout Florida’s territorial period was Newnansville, at one point the lone settler refuge during the Second Seminole War.
As home to the local U.S. Land Office after the war, the stream of new settlers coming into the state received land grants in Newnansville for parcels throughout the county.
The first major railroad in Florida was conceived in 1842, and when it became clear that the line would
bypass Newnansville for a shorter route through the center of the county, the newer population saw opportunity.
Already planning a new town along the line, influential county
residents near the proposed community persuaded the state legislature in 1852 to pass an act for a county-wide vote for a new county seat.
A meeting was held at Boulware Spring in 1853 to select the seat, with the
Boulwares, future governor Madison Starke Perry, and James Bailey favoring relocation, while prominent families such as the Dells, Pyles and Motts preferred it
By DAVID S. WISENERToday Editor
PROFILE:Continued on page A5
A.L. Mebane High School ReunionThe Hornets buzz
Photos by RAINA BARNETT/Special to Alachua County TodayA.L. Mebane High School alumni celebrated its 2015 reunion this past weekend. The traditional parade down Main Street was one of many scheduled events. Additonal photos on page A5.
Santa Fe High School launches drone programPage A1 Below
Hogtown Creek was the site of the first settlement in the Gainesville area. The Sweet Water Branch originally marked the eastern boundary of the City of Gainesville.
By TAYLOR PAITSELSpecial to
Alachua CountyToday
By RAINA BARNETTSpecial to
Alachua CountyToday
A2 Alachua County Today LOCAL NEWS Thursday, December 03, 2015
Jesse says,“It would be wonderful if
mistakes could be sold for as much as
they cost.”
Alachua County Today (ISSN 1534-7567) is published weekly by Alachua Today, Inc., 14804 Main Street, Alachua, FL 32615. All material herein is the property of Alachua County Today. Reproduc tion in whole or in part is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Periodicals Postage Paid at Alachua, FL 32616.
HOW TO REACH USPhone: (386) 462-3355Fax: (386) 462-4569Email: editor@alachuatoday.
comMail: P.O. Box 2135,
Alachua, FL 32616Office: 14804 Main Street,
Suite 200Open Mon-Thurs. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
PUBLISHER# Bryan Boukari,
NEWSROOM# Managing Editor:
# Reporters: C.M. Walker, Kristina Orrego
ADVERTISING#Classified/Legal: Robert Boukari, [email protected]#Legal Display: Robert Boukari, [email protected]#Retail: Chris Dampier,[email protected]
SUBSCRIPTIONSIn-county, $25/$40 for two
yearsOut-of-county, $35/$60 for two
yearsOut-of-state, $40/$70 for two
years
POSTMASTER:Send changes of address to:Alachua County Today, P.O. Box 2135, Alachua, FL 32616. Annual subscription rate is $25 in county, $35 out-of-county and $40 out-of-state. Subscribe online at
www.alachuatoday.com.HOW TO SUBMIT...#LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Letters may be mailed, faxed or emailed. Letters may be edited to fit available space. Please include your name, ad-dress, and day and evening phone numbers for verifica-tion. Letters MUST be signed.
#A STORY: Do you have a timely story or news event that is of interest to the community? Email our editor at [email protected] or call (386) 462-3355.
#COMMUNITY CALENDAR, CHURCH, BIRTH & WED-DING ANNOUNCE MENTS: Email to [email protected], call (386) 462-3355 or fax (386) 462-4569 your infor-mation. Please include phone number and name of individual submitting the announcement.Letters, comments and opin-ions on the Opinions page are not necessarily those of the management/ownership of the Alachua County Today.
INSIDE ALACHUA COUNTY TODAY...
CLASSIFIEDS . . B3EVENTS . . . . . . . A3JOBS . . . . . . . . . . B5OPINIONS . . . . . A4PEOPLE & PLACES. . . . . . . . B1RELIGION . . . . . B2BUSINESS &SERVICES DIRECTORY . . . B6
AlachuaCounty
odayTThe only Five Star newspaper Serving the Heartland Communities
This is the time of year that our moderate climate brings lots of visitors to the state. Not all are just here to enjoy the climate though. Now is the time that we begin to see groups or families of organized criminals soliciting door-to-door. These groups tend to target our elderly population with roof repairs, asphalt sealing or repair and tree trimming services.
These criminals use high-pressure sales techniques and travel
from town-to-town. Oftentimes, they show up at your door claiming to have materials that were left over from a previous job and offering discount work. Once they make a deal, they try to confuse the victim to extort more money or when finished, claim to have done more work than originally agreed upon and need more money. The jobs performed are usually substandard or create more of a problem for the homeowner. These groups are
often difficult for law enforcement to identify and move from the area quickly.
Here are some tips to watch out for.
•Solicitors going door-to-door
•Unsolicited offers of home repair
•High pressure sales tactics•Clean, new vehicles with
out-of-state license plates•Area codes from outside
the area and toll free numbers•Leftover materials claims•Requests for payments in
cashIf you suspect or
experience this activity, please call the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office at 352-955-1818 immediately.
A message from the desk of Sheriff Sadie DarnellTraveling Criminals
Q: What is TMJ syndrome?
A: TMJ is the acronym commonly used for the more unwieldy name “ t e m p e r o m a n d i b u l a r joint,” which is the hinge at which the lower jaw, called the mandible, connects with the upper jaw on either side of your face. You can feel the joint’s movement just in front of your ears. TMJ syndrome is acute or chronic inflammation of this joint. It can cause significant pain and impair the operation of the joint. In some cases, the joint can lock in either the open or closed position.
The TMJ, like any other of your joints, is susceptible to damage from conditions like stiffness and arthritis, and dislocation, whether from a trauma like a blow to the
face, or from regular use. In addition to facial pain, TMJ syndrome can also cause severe headaches, dizziness and pain or stiffness in the neck and shoulders. Treatment might include stress-reduction exercises or medication.
Whenever you are experiencing facial pain, you should see your dentist. While TMJ syndrome is a common cause of facial pain, there are other causes as well. A sinus infection, gum disease or a toothache can also cause facial pain. Unfortunately, it’s estimated some 15 percent of American adults experience facial pain. Your dentist, sometimes with the use of x-rays, can identify the source of the pain and recommend treatment.
TMJ Syndrome
Porcelain Laminates, Veneers & OnlaysComputer-Generated CrownsSmile Makeovers • TMJ TherapyImplant Restorations • Digital X-RaysCrowns • Bridges • Metal-Free FillingsLaser Dentistry • Snoring Appliances Mini Implants • Invisalign
SPECIALIZING IN:
Cosmetic, Family and Reconstructive Dentistry
LD Pankey and Ross Nash Institute Preferred Dentist
Celebrating 26 years of beautiful smiles! Serving Alachua and surrounding counties since 1990
DOUGLAS M. ADEL, DDS
www.DRDOUGLASADEL.com 386-462-4635
14211 NW 150th Avenue • Alachua, FLLocated across the street from City Hall and the Police station
MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED - WE FILE FOR YOU
Call today
for our
WHITENING
SPECIALS!
Gift Certificates
Available!
ObituaryJohnny Ray Swedenburg, Jr.
Mr. Johnny Ray Swedenburg, Jr., age 43, of Newberry passed away Nov. 17, 2015 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Mr. Swedenburg was born in Gainesville, Florida, but as a First Class Petty Officer, E6 Gunner’s Mate in the United States Navy, he spent many years based mostly in Virginia, and later North Carolina. He retired from the Navy after 20 years of service.
He loved fishing and animals, but most of all was a devoted family man who always offered a listening ear and a smile. He cared more about his family than himself, and always strived to ensure their happiness. Despite his illness, Johnny did what he wanted. He fought cancer and lived as he pleased. Cancer never won.
Johnny is preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn Watson Swedenburg.
He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Tracy Swedenburg, and their son Devin Swedenburg of Newberry; his father, Johnny Swedenburg, Sr. of Chiefland; his brother, William Keith Swedenburg of Kansas City, Missouri; his twin sister, Tamara Anderson (Shane), of Chiefland; a niece and two nephews, and countless other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
The family will hold a memorial service on Nov. 28 at 1 p.m. in Henry Beck Park. Dress is casual. Arrangements are under the direction of Knauff Funeral Home, 512 E Noble Ave., Williston, FL, 32696, (352)528-3481. Please sign the guestbook atknaufffuneralhomes.com
Obituaries: The obituaries in this section are considered news and are published free of charge by Alachua County Today. Obituaries may be edited for style, space and policy.
ROBBERY:Continued from page A1
sum of money and fled the area on foot, heading south behind the store.
Alachua and Columbia County Sheriff’s Offices and the Alachua Police Department assisted the HSPD in attempting to apprehend the subject, but were unsuccessful.
The suspect is described
as a black male with gold teeth in his late to mid-twenties, approximately six feet tall and wearing sunglasses, a black sweatshirt with hoodie, black shorts, brown work boots, and an orange beanie cap.
The HSPD is continuing to investigate.
Any information pertaining to the robbery should be reported to Sgt. Kendrick Hampton via phone at 386-454-1415 or via email at [email protected].
# # #Email [email protected]
Suspect fled on foot
SoutherncharmEmporium.com
Consignments Welcome!
► Art► Antiques► Fine Furniture► Ceramics► Hand Made Soaps► Beeswax Candles► ► Hemp Products► Civil War
Memorabilia
14874 Main Street, Alachua, Florida
352-284-0931
l CLOTHING FOR YOUR FAMILY l TOYS & GAMES FOR KIDS
l GIFTS FOR ALL l FURNITURE l SHOES l JEWELRY & BOOKS l
USEF
UL &
DEC
ORA
TIVE
ITEM
S
l KITCHENW
ARE & GLASSW
ARE
140 North Main StreetHigh Springs, Florida
Monday - Thursday 9 - 5Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 9 - 4
To schedule furniture pickup, call:866-642-0962 Proceeds Benefit Herry’s Kids Pediatric Services
Fridays &Saturdays
Friday Is
SeniorDiscount
MilitaryDiscount
You’ll Love OurBARGAINS!
50% OffAll Clothing
$3 Bag Sale Day(select clothing only)
25% OffWednesdays (Age 50 & Over)
25% OffEvery Day (Active & Retired)
Tree of Remembrance: Nov. 27 - Jan. 2Christmas Decorations Now 50% Off!
M U LT I - FA M I LYG A R A G E S A L E
S A T U R D A Y , D E C . 1 28 A M - 1 2 N O O N
S u p p o r t A l a c h u a E l e m e n t a r y ’ sS a f e t y P a t r o l s ’ t r i p t o
W a s h i n g t o n , D C
G A I N E S V I L L E – The Alachua County School Board is currently accepting applications for school choice for the 2016-17 academic year. The window to apply for controlled school choice ends Jan. 29.
Applications are online at the School Board web site located at www.sbac.edu. Interested parents should click on the ‘Zoning’ link near the bottom of the left-hand side of the district’s home page then click on ‘Request for School Choice Form.’
Parents can also contact the Zoning Department at 352-955-7700 if they
would like a form mailed to their home.
Completed applications must be returned to the district office or postmarked by Jan. 29. They can be faxed to 352-955-7990 or mailed to:
Alachua County Public Schools
Zoning Office620 E. University Ave.Gainesville, FL 32601If the application is
approved, the student will be assigned to the approved school until completing the final grade at that school. Transportation to and from school is not provided by the district and students may be removed from the school for tardiness or disciplinary issues.
If there are more
applications for a particular school than there are spaces available, admission to the school will be granted on a lottery basis. Additional weight will be given to applications from students whose socioeconomic status would enhance diversity at the school, students with siblings at the school, and students who have previously attended the school.
Parents will be notified by letter beginning Feb. 12 if their application has been approved or denied. They must then notify the district by March 4 of their intent to accept or decline the choice.
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
Parents can apply for controlled school choice through January 29
Special toAlachua County Today
newnew
OddEven
UU
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACK
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACKOddEven
UUnewnew
A3Alachua County Today COMMUNITY CORNER Thursday, December 03, 2015
Meetings & Events in the Heartlands
#Alachua (City) – Meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. #Alachua County - Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. at the County Administration Building, 12 SE 1st Street, Room 209, Gainesville. Citizen comments are taken at 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.#Archer - Meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 16870 SW 134 Ave.#Gainesville - Meets the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. at City Commission Chamber, 200 East University Avenue.#Hawthorne - Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.#High Springs – Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall.#LaCrosse – Meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.#Micanopy - Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall.#Newberry – Meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall#Waldo - Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Yerkes Center.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
Dec. 3: Memorial Dedication in Honor of High Springs Town Marshall George Lasrono Bryant, sponsored by the High Springs Police Department. The memory of the High Springs Town Marshall and Alachua County Deputy Sheriff, who served his community until he was shot by Duncan Jordan on Dec. 3, 1908, will be honored. Location: The High Springs Police Department, 110 NW Second Ave. Times: TBA.
■ Dec. 4: City of Alachua Tree Lighting. Friday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m., in front of Alachua City Hall. Join in and sing traditional Christmas songs, greet Santa as he arrives in Alachua and children are invited to join him on Main Street in Hitchcock Theater Park for pictures and treats.
■ Dec. 4-20: The High Springs Playhouse Presents: Dashing Through the Snow - a Christmas comedy.Location: High Springs Playhouse, 130 N.E. First Ave., Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Cost: $12 Adult, $8 Youth (12 and under) and Students with valid I.D., $10 for Seniors (55 and over) on Sundays. If a show is sold out online (HighSpringsPlayhouse.com), tickets may still be available by phoning 386-454-3525.
■ Dec. 5: The High Springs Art Co-op Artwalk, Saturday, Dec. 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Several downtown shops will host some 16 local artists. Maps showing artist locations will be available at Lanza Gallery and at participating businesses. Some shops will offer refreshments. As an incentive to visit all the participating shops, each
business will give visitors a ticket, which can be used later for drawings of Co-op members’ donated artwork. The prize drawings will begin at 8:20 p.m. at Lanza Gallery.
■ Dec 5 – 6: 26th Annual Fall Farm & Cane Festival Dudley Farm Historic State Park appreciates and demonstrates the past. Saturday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. featuring “old time” skills, games and crafts, sugarcane syrup making, music, blacksmithing, corn grinding, wood working, animals, food and fun. Admission is $8 per vehicle up to 8 occupants.
■ For more information, call 352-472-1142 or visit www.friendsofdudleyfarm.org.
■ Dec. 8: High Springs Chamber Annual Holiday Social. Location: Great Outdoors Patio, 65 North Main Street, High Springs Time: 5:30 p.m.
■ Dec. 9: High Springs AARP membership meeting will be Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015. Our activity is the Secret Santa Donation Box. Let’s fill it up and see how much we can spread it around High Springs. Come join us. The public is welcome. The meeting starts at 11 a.m. Come early to socialize. Ham will be provided. Bring a complimentary covered dish to share at the luncheon following the meeting. Join us at St. Madeleine Catholic Church in the Family Life Center building, on U.S. Highway 441 between Alachua and High Springs, 17155 NW US HWY 441, High Springs, Fl., 32643. For more information, call Pres. G. James 386-454-9834.
■ Dec. 10: Archer Historial Society A Christmas Gathering.
Takes place at the Archer Community Center at 6 p.m.
■ Dec. 12: Hawthorne 33rd Annual Christmas Parade, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. in downtown Hawthorne. To participate in parade or reserve arts, crafts, or food booth, entertainment, or to sponsor, contact festival chair Donna Boles at 352-363-5125 or visit www.hawthorneflorida.og.
■ Dec. 12: City of Alachua Christmas Parade. Saturday, Dec. 12, lineup at 11 a.m., parade at 2 p.m. along Alachua's Main Street.
■ Dec. 12: Annual Twilight Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., sponsored by the High Springs Chamber of Commerce, starting on Main Street near the intersection of NW 2nd Street.
■ Dec. 12 – 13: You won't want to miss this year's Christmas Concert at First Baptist Church of Alachua (14005 NW 146th Avenue). The choir and orchestra will be presenting “The Heart of Christmas” at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13. We are looking forward to seeing you there.
■ Dec. 14: Annual Newberry High School Winter Concert, Dinner and Silent Auction on Monday, Dec., 14 starting at 6 p.m. with Dinner and Silent Auction, followed at 7 p.m. with the concert. Join in for holiday festivities and a wonderful evening of music! All food is $1 each. Concert tickets are $5 each at the door.
BK Cedars: www.BKCedars.comPotted native Red Cedar 'Robin Blue' & Arizona
Cypress: 1 to 30 gallon; 2'-8' - $5 to $75Free Sugar cane and pecans with purchase
Official State of Florida Living Christmas Tree
Open Saturdays and Sundays 10a.m. to 6p.m. Nov. 28 to Dec. 20
20926 NW 75 Street 1.5 miles off Hwy 235
between Alachua and LaCrosse912-210-3429 386-462-2060
E-mail [email protected]
how to manage conflicts with coyotes. He said that he gets calls about coyotes every week.
“Attacks on humans are really rare and almost never deadly,” Giuliano said. “[Coyotes may be hostile to humans] if you surprise them, get between them and their young or interrupt them when they’re feeding.”
While coyotes are unlikely to attack humans, they are much more likely to go after smaller animals, such as people’s pets, livestock, endangered species or even children, Hickey said.
“Coyotes like to hunt smaller animals because they are easier prey and are much less effort,” Hickey said. “This is especially true during early morning hours or at night when a coyote is more active.”
Cats and small dogs are an easy target because they are often left unattended, are let out without a leash or are kept on a leash too far away from the owner.
Keep animals inside, always supervised and on a leash when outside, Hickey said. If a coyote is spotted near a pet, pick the pet up because a coyote won’t go after someone holding an animal unless they are determined or very hungry.
If a coyote has taken a pet, the first instinct is to try to fight to get the pet back, Hickey said. However, it’s not wise because the coyote will probably try to attack you, as well.
It’s never a good idea to approach a wild animal, and the best way to avoid getting attacked is to leave a coyote alone, Hickey said.
There are only a few occasions when someone should be called about a coyote: when there is a possibility of disease or aggression.
“Coyotes can live a little bit longer than most species with rabies,” Giuliano said. “However, all mammals will eventually die from the disease with the exception of bats.”
Humans are also susceptible to contracting rabies, so knowing the signs of a possible diseased coyote is the first step to avoiding the virus.
“If a coyote doesn’t back away, it might have rabies,” Hickey said. “If it seems disoriented or is foaming at the mouth, do not approach it.”
Instead, Hickey suggests backing off to a safe place and calling the police or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Hickey said the FWC should be called only if a coyote is acting strangely
or aggressively, not just walking in public.
Coyotes will understand command phrases – such as “No!” – because they are a species of dog, Hickey said.
Also, if a coyote is seen on the same route every day, Hickey said it’s acceptable to carry an air gun or a high-pitched dog whistle to scare them off. These items should only be used if a coyote starts to approach someone.
On the other hand, if a coyote seems unafraid of humans, it could be because someone has been feeding it or it’s been getting food close to someone’s residence, Hickey said.
Jess Rodriguez, a northeast region volunteer coordinator for the FWC, said that humans often do not realize that they are feeding coyotes.
“Coyotes are attracted to human food, garbage and even bird seed,” Rodriguez said. “Try not to leave your garbage out. Put it out the morning of collection.”
Widespread fear of coyotes has led residents in most areas to want coyotes removed so that they don’t
kill pets and livestock, threaten families or damage property, Giuliano said. However, this is only wishful thinking.
“Coyotes have one of the best examples of density dependent reproduction: The more you kill them, the bigger their litter sizes are,” Giuliano said. “They compensate for mortality with greater reproduction, and you could never remove enough of them.”
Some studies have theorized that the only way to get rid of a local coyote population is to remove 75 percent of the coyotes in the population every year, and it would take up to 50 years before the population was dead, Giuliano said.
Even though local hunters and trappers have sought to reduce the numbers of coyotes, coyotes will always be here to stay, Giuliano said.
“You have to admire coyotes because they are the ultimate adapter,” Giuliano said. “They can live anywhere and eat anything.”
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
Coyote sightings are on the riseCOYOTE:Continued from page A1
Members of the formerHigh Springs Art Co-oppresent our annual
THIS Saturday,December 55:30 to 8 pm.
DowntownHigh Springs
• 16 local Artists • Shops open til 8• Drawings for Free Artwork • Treats• Pick up map and tickets, drawing at 8:20 at Lanza Gallery • Join us Downtown for Fun!
NOTICE OF LAND USE CHANGE
The City Commission of the City of Archer, Florida, proposes to regulate the use of land within the area shown in the map below by amending the text and Future Land Use Plan Map of the City of Archer Comprehensive Plan, hereinafter referred to as the Comprehensive Plan, as follows:
CPA 15-01 is an application by the City Commission, to amend the text and Future Land Use Plan Map of the Comprehensive Plan, based upon an evaluation completed by the City on March 10, 2015, and in response to the Objections, Recommendations and Comments Report issued by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity dated July 20, 2015, to reflect changes in state requirements pursuant to Section 163.3191, Florida Statutes, as amended.
A public hearing will be conducted by the City Commission to consider the amendment and enactment of the ordinance adopting the amendment on December 14, 2015 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter can be heard, in the City Commission Chamber, City Hall, located at 16870 Southwest 134th Avenue, Archer, Florida. The title of said ordinance shall read, as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 04-2015
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ARCHER, FLORIDA, RELATING TO AMENDING THE TEXT AND FUTURE LAND USE PLAN MAP OF THE CITY OF ARCHER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, PURSUANT TO AN APPLICATION, CPA 15-01, BY THE CITY COMMISSION, UNDER THE AMENDMENT PROCEDURES ESTABLISHED IN SECTIONS 163.3161 THROUGH 163.3248, FLORIDA STATUTES, AS AMENDED; PROVIDING FOR AMENDING THE TEXT AND FUTURE LAND USE PLAN MAP OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BASED UPON AN EVALUATION COMPLETED BY THE CITY DATED MARCH 10, 2015 AND IN RESPONSE TO THE OBJECTIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMENTS REPORT ISSUED BY THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY DATED JULY 20, 2015, TO REFLECT CHANGES IN STATE REQUIREMENTS, PURSUANT TO SECTION 163.3191, FLORIDA STATUTES, AS AMENDED; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
The public hearing may be continued to one or more future dates. Any interested party shall be advised that the date, time and place of any continuation of the public hearing shall be announced during the public hearing and that no further notice concerning the matter will be published, unless said continuation exceeds six calendar weeks from the date of the above referenced public hearing.
At the aforementioned public hearing, all interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to the amendment and the ordinance adopting the amendment on the date, time and place as stated above.
Copies of the amendment and the ordinance adopting the amendment are available for public inspection at the Office of the City Manager, City Hall, 16870 Southwest 134th Avenue, Archer, Florida, during regular business hours.
All persons are advised that, if they decide to appeal any decisions made at this public hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings and, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
Persons with disabilities requesting reasonable accommodations to participate in this proceeding should contact 352.463.3169 (Voice & TDD) or via Florida Relay Service 800.955.8771.
(Published:Alachua County Today - December 03, 2015)
newnew
OddEven
UU
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACK
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACKOddEven
UUnewnew
A4 Alachua County Today VOICE OF THE HEARTLANDS Thursday, December 03, 2015
Obama’s Sanctimony on Syrian Refugees
Our Cheapened Instincts
President Barack Obama has seen the enemy, and it is the refusal to accept more Syrian refugees.
From the tone of his post-Paris remarks, you’d think that a sophisticated terrorist assault on a major Western city is a setback; sentiment in the U.S. against taking more Syrian refugees is an atrocity.
Obama warned against “that dark impulse inside of us,” as if we were debating whether Syrian refugees should be drawn and
quartered. He said that “slamming the door in their faces would be a betrayal of our values.” He was joined by liberal commentators who scoffed and guffawed at worries over Syrian refugees after -- ho-hum, nothing to see here -- one of the
Paris terrorists apparently posed as a refugee.
It’s remarkable that the president feels justified in lecturing anyone on humanitarianism. He has stood by while Syria has descended into a hellish chaos, and hasn’t betrayed any guilty conscience. If you put those 10,000 Syrian refugees back in their native country and let them get gassed, barrel-bombed, shelled or shot, would he bat an eye at the ever-growing casualty
count?The Syrian refugees are most
useful to the president as a symbol of his alleged cosmopolitanism and of the supposed backwardness of his opposition.
The problem with the argument that our values compel us to take refugees is that it isn’t subject to any limit. We admit about 70,000 refugees a year. Is that the American level? Or would 700,000 be more American? And what’s the balance between prudential considerations -- cost, security, assimilation -- and American-ness?
By any reasonable standard we are justified in telling Europe that we have already done our part on migration, thank you very much. According to immigration expert Jessica Vaughan, since 2009 we have accepted 70 percent of all resettled United Nations-designated refugees worldwide.
It is true that Europe at the moment faces a migrant crisis. It’s not hard to see how it can begin to handle it. First, tell Germany’s foolhardy chancellor to stop encouraging more migrants to come; enforce national boundaries like nation-states have from time immemorial; refuse to accept anyone who hasn’t been processed properly.
The U.S., already dealing with a steady migrant flow from south of the border, needn’t become part of the bidding for Syrian refugees.
Resources can be better spent in Middle Eastern countries that are hosting millions of Syrian refugees. The Center for Immigration Studies, which supports restrictions on immigration, estimates that the cost of settling one Syrian refugee here would support 12 Syrian refugees in the other Middle Eastern states.
While we don’t face the security risk of Europe, where the refugee flow is essentially uncontrolled, there is no reliable way to vet Syrian refugees.
Finally, assimilation is an obvious concern. The experience of the Somali refugee community in Minneapolis hasn’t been a happy one. Unemployment is high, and the community has provided dozens of recruits to radical Islamist groups.
Of course, that we are discussing a Syrian refugee crisis at all is another symptom of the president’s abject failure in the Middle East. So, please, Mr. President, spare us your sanctimony and condescension.
Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review.
(c) 2015 by King Features Synd., Inc.
Alachua County TodayEstablished in 2000
Ellen B. Boukari Bryan Boukari Executive Editor Publisher
Alachua Today, Inc.
Alachua County Today Policy Statement
Alachua County Today is dedicated to reporting news and events relevant to all citizens of the Heartland Commu nities. Above all, the staff is dedicated to policies of fairness and objectivity, and to avoiding what is sometimes characterized as "agenda journalism."
Alachua County Today is not a Republican newspaper, not a Democratic paper. Nor is it a liberal or conservative paper.
Alachua County Today is
a newspaper dedicated to: (1) balanced reporting of news and events relevant to the community, and (2) reporting on all significant social, economic and political issues and problems that the staff believes should be of concern to our readers.
The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the management, ownership, reporters, or staff of Alachua County Today.
What’s most pathetic about the presidential campaign is how it’s becoming little more than a battle between cheap-shot artists. Each day brings a new limbo contest, as they all compete to see how low they can go. Take, for instance, the ridiculous heckling by various Republicans because President Barack Obama and other Democrats don’t want to describe the brutal ISIS terrorists as manifestations of “radical Islam.”
The administration avoids the term because it casts the United States as an
enemy of Muslims, which we make believe we are not. Many of the GOP candidates don’t even bother pretending. Donald Trump would shut down mosques and force Muslims to register; many of the others would block refugees fleeing the horrors in Syria from settling in the U.S., except maybe the Christian ones, a religious test that is particularly repulsive. After all, wasn’t our nation founded by those who were fleeing oppression and persecution?
Back to the term “radical Islam.” Logically, if we’re going to use that expression to cast aspersions on all people of that faith simply for the maniacal actions of its extremists, then we need to be consistent. For example: Are those who practice violence against abortion clinics part of the “radical Catholicism” movement? How about those who insist on defying world condemnation to expand settlements in Israel? “Radical Judaism”?
Yes, that was all meant to offend.
Imagine how Muslims are insulted by “radical Islam.” They’re judging whether our nation’s claim to be a tolerant religious tapestry, welcoming all forms of belief and nonbelief, is for real. Quite frankly, it doesn’t look that way.
We have one candidate saying he couldn’t support a Muslim to be president. Another advocates keeping out all the refugees from Syria, even the babies. It’s disgraceful. But even worse, it’s designed to get votes.
Being afraid of violence here is no excuse, not if you look at it rationally, which too many are not. The usual patter goes that terrorists will blend in with the refugees. That’s the excuse around 30 governors have for declaring that all would be unwelcome in their states. After all, look what happened in Paris.
Well, let’s look at what happened in Paris. What happened was gruesome violence at the hands of homicidal crazies, all of whom grew up in Europe. That’s right, these were all homegrown
lunatics. It’s the same reality here. Our country is crawling with sociopaths, who can easily get their guns and live out their gruesome fantasies.
But we don’t do anything. No GOP candidate is about to recommend sanity on guns. Instead, they’re more than willing to pander to a base whose main purpose seems to be paranoid hate. Whether they’re fearful of gays or people of color, Mexicans and now Muslims, these are people whose worst instincts are right out there to be exploited. And exploit the candidates do.
It would be easy to say that the politicians should be ashamed of themselves, but these are not people who can be shamed. We should be embarrassed by them, but some of us are too ignorant and the rest fed up. We are not a safe haven for anybody but the cheap-shot artists.
(c) 2015 Bob FrankenDistributed by King Features Synd.
Local News
HIGH SPRINGS – The High Springs Art Co-op may be closed, but its members are still finding ways to display their work. This weekend’s Artwalk is one popular way.
Some former Co-op members have their works at Newberry’s Firehouse Gallery. In late October seven Art Co-op artists set up tents at Live Oak’s Jazz, Arts and Blues Festival (some won prizes). A few members have their work at Lanza Gallery on First Avenue in High Springs.
The Art Co-op’s most
popular annual event was always the Artwalk, so the majority of Co-op artists decided to keep it alive, home or no home. The Artwalk happens Dec. 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Several of the downtown shops will host some 16 local artists. Maps showing artist locations will be available at Lanza Gallery and at participating businesses. Many of these shops close at 5 p.m., so people who work until 5 will have a chance to visit them during the Artwalk. Some shops will offer refreshments.
As an incentive to visit all the participating shops,
each business will give visitors a ticket, which can be used later for drawings of Co-op members’ donated artwork. The prize drawings will begin at 8:20 p.m. at Lanza Gallery.
The High Springs Art Co-op lasted five and a half years. It ended when the building was sold in August. The Co-op artists’ home may be gone, but they keep finding ways to show their artwork. The downtown Artwalk continues to be a fun way to do it.
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
Artwalk Saturday in High SpringsSpecial to
Alachua County Today
Children’s Holiday at Santa Fe Returns on Dec. 5
GAINESVILLE – Now an annual tradition, the popular “Children’s Holiday at Santa Fe” will again welcome Santa Claus with dancing sweets, hip-hop elves, multicultural winter holiday songs, crafts, cookies and punch at 2 p.m. Sat., Dec. 5, in the Fine Arts Hall at the Northwest Campus of Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville.
Children 12 and under are admitted free and there must be at least one adult for every three children. Adult tickets are $15 in the orchestra
and mezzanine, $12 in the balcony, and $9 for seniors. Tickets may be purchased at www.sfcollege.edufinearts. Call the Box Office at 352-395-4181 to reserve free tickets for children.
The diverse, high-energy program will feature members of the Dance Theatre of Santa Fe in a celebration of sweets throughout the world from the second act of “The Nutcracker” ballet. Children will thrill to dancers in the Kingdom of Sweets—ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy—with chocolate from Spain, tea from China, coffee from Arabia, candy canes from Russia, and Mother Caramel
and her marshmallows. Appearing for the first time this year are the dancing Silver Belles!
The second half of the entertainment program features the Santa Fe Singers performing “Frosty the Snowman” and songs from the Disney movie “Frozen.”
After the program, children will gather in the lobby to create winter holiday crafts including ornaments and dreidels and enjoy cookies and beverages with Santa, the elves, and other characters in the show.
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
Special to Alachua County Today
newnew
OddEven
UU
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACK
CYANMAGENTA
YELLOWBLACKOddEven
UUnewnew
A5Alachua County Today LOCAL NEWS Thursday, December 03, 2015
Mebane on parade highlights alumni
This activity is neither sponsored nor endorsed by Alachua County Public Schools
Phone: 386-418-6100 Fax: 386-418-6175 Email: [email protected]
Please contact Alachua City Hall for additional information.
Date: Friday, December 4, 2015
Time: 6 p.m.—8 p.m.
Location: Main Street Theatre Park
Santa’s Coming to Alachua at the
Good Life Community Christmas Celebration
Join Santa and Mrs. Claus
at the
Christmas Tree
Lighting on Main Street
and then follow them to the
“Winter Wonderland”
decorated Alan Hitchcock Theatre
Park on Main Street for free photos
and a treat bag!
Environment hangs in the balance as city footprint growsPROFILE:Continued from page A1
Photos by BOB BROWN/Special to Alachua County TodaySeveral major construction developments are currently underway in Gainesville and the surrounding area.
The University of Florida moved to Gainesville in 1905. It has been the most important influence on the city's growth.
remain in Newnansville.The debate was heated,
and the ultimate vote was close. Though the precise details are not known, political maneuvering played a major role in the decision to move the county seat to the new railroad town.
As owner of the land on which the new town was to be plotted, Bailey had a vested interest. He persuaded William Lewis, a resident of Hogtown (a settlement along the still-extant creek), to align the bloc of votes he had secured with a promise: if the vote was lost and the seat remained in Newnansville, Bailey would name the new town “Lewisville.”
The original plat of Gainesville in 1854 was a square of nearly 100 acres, with the eastern border along the Sweet Water Branch marking the only non-straight edge. The north ran to current 5th Avenue, the west to 2nd Street, and the south to 2nd Place.
While Gainesville began its existence as the center of county government, it wouldn’t reach regional importance until it was chosen by the state in 1905 to house the
University of Florida.Florida decided to
consolidate its eight institutions of higher education into two: one for women and one for men. Gainesville and Lake City became the two leading competitors to house the men’s institution, as Gainesville was the home of the East Florida Seminary and Lake City held the Florida Agricultural College.
Both cities made the State nearly identical offers of approximately 800 acres of use for the campus. Gainesville, however, also provided free water, and a group of citizens offered to buy the East Florida Seminary property from the State.
Thus in a politically
savvy move like the one that gained the county seat, Gainesville won the University of Florida. A city population of approximately 220 in 1860 that had risen to 3,600 by 1900 found itself growing along with the school, reaching nearly 27,000 by 1950 and 124,000 by 2010.
The university has been the top employer in the county for many years, but – as is common with institutions of higher education – it has made Gainesville politically liberal amidst a sea of conservative rural communities. For better and worse, this often leaves the County Commission – comprised largely of Gainesville residents – at odds with local
communities.Today, Gainesville
has a delicate political tension between ecological conservation and infrastructure expansion. It has a large portion of land set aside for conservation purposes, yet areas such as the Sweet Water Branch are littered with trash, and it caters to new construction.
Gainesville allowed The Home Depot in 2007 to build a 130,000 sq. ft. store on environmentally sensitive land at the U.S. Highway 441 and NW 53rd Avenue intersection, but in return the company sold 70 adjacent acres to the City and made a donation toward the creation of the Hogtown Creek Headwaters Park.
Two massive developments off Archer
Road behind Butler Plaza spanning across I-75 cleared more than 200 acres of land – much of which was forest – in order to build nearly 4,000 residential units, one million sq. ft. of retail space, and 400,000 sq. ft. of office space. Technically, though, these areas rest just outside the City boundaries.
Gainesville politics continue to be both shrewd and sometimes ethically questionable. An assistant for Gainesville Mayor Ed Braddy stated that the
mayor would contact this newspaper for comment on this story, yet news broke of Braddy’s link to former Gator Lodge Fraternal Order of Police President Jeff McAdams, who is alleged to have stolen at least $56,000 from the FOP for questionable expenses, including covering hotel stays for Braddy. Braddy did not respond to requests for an interview.
# # #Email [email protected]
Program recruits volunteers to decrease graffiti
G A I N E S V I L L E – Graffiti artists in Gainesville will have a hard time getting away with and taking credit for their vandalism.
Keep Alachua County Beautiful (KACB), an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, has created a program to get rid of all graffiti in Gainesville.
The Graffiti Abatement program works with volunteers to clean up and remove any graffiti reported to the City.
Gina Hawkins, the Executive Director of KACB, said the program was created to decrease the urban blight that comes along with graffiti.
Hawkins said neglecting to take care of cities as they age causes urban blights. She said blights lead to more criminal activity in a city because if criminals see no one is trying to remove the graffiti, they believe no one cares about the well-being of the city.
GPD has partnered
with KACB in the Graffiti Abatement program. GPD’s role is to investigate the graffiti and find who is responsible for the vandalism.
“Graffiti has been an issue in years past, but we really haven’t seen it too much in the past three years or so,” said Officer Ben Tobias, Gainesville Police Department spokesperson.
KACB relies on the community to report vandalism. There is a hotline that directly calls the KACB office where anyone can report graffiti at 352-371-9444.
A new smartphone application, 311GNV, has been created that allows Gainesville residents to report any non-emergency public safety issues, such as graffiti.
Hawkins said reporting vandalism is the easiest thing Gainesville residents can do to reduce graffiti in town.
“By being proactive, it deprives criminals of receiving recognition of their ‘work’,” Hawkins said.
A unique place in Gainesville that welcomes and encourages graffiti
is the 34th Street Wall. The wall is a place where students and residents can openly express themselves with graffiti.
“The 34th Street Wall is one of those unwritten rule areas,” Officer Tobias said.
Hawkins said she fought to continue to allow graffiti on the wall to help decrease the amount of graffiti found in other places in Gainesville.
“The wall shows a purpose and is a continuously changing billboard,” Hawkins said.
KACB is responsible for removing any obscenities from the wall.
The University of Florida’s Interfraternity Council also has a part in caring for the wall. IFC is responsible for protecting and restoring the memorial of the Danny Rollins murder victims.
Jack Causseaux, Director of Sorority and Fraternity Affairs for UF believes the wall is an opportunity for students to express themselves.
“(The wall) gives people a different outlet to express themselves,” Causseaux said.
Kenneth von Hahmann,
a senior studying forestry resource conservation, painted on the 34th Street Wall to raise awareness for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
“I have never personally done graffiti as a vandalizing act, but I felt
the 34th Street Wall gives students and Gainesville residents ample space to express their creativity through graffiti,” von Hahmann said.
“While graffiti is illegal, there has never been an arrest or anyone
charged for painting on the wall,” Officer Tobias said. “I think our city leaders realize the importance of having an outlet so prominent in Gainesville.”
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
By NICOLETTE JENNINGS
Special to Alachua CountyToday
Alachua County Todayis your best source for local news - 386.462.3355
“It also looks very good on a college application, especially for those colleges that are establishing their own UAS programs.”
Drones are not only used in military operations, they are used in agriculture for crop maintenance or overseeing large livestock herds.
“I decided to try it and I love it,” said senior Dana Patterson. “I’m going for the certification and now I’m looking into agricultural engineering or something like that.”
The first semester of the program has been devoted not only to flying lessons, but also to physics, chemistry and other high level academic work. The second semester will be
focused on agricultural applications.
It is not all fun and flying all the time, however.
“We have to learn the science behind what we’re doing, things like the physics of flight and weather,” said Ryan Felton, a junior. “It’s not just like we spend all day flying around.”
For the students at Santa Fe, a new door has opened and the sky truly is the limit.
“I’m kind of at that stage where I’m not sure what I want to do in college, but I’m definitely considering something related to drones,” Felton said. “This class has definitely opened that door.”
# # #Email editor@
alachuatoday.com
Drone program
Photos by RAINA BARNETT/Special to Alachua County TodayClockwise from Left: Miss Green and Gold and Lil Ms. Alumni parade down Main Street. Betty Schumpert, a 1954 graduate of A. L. Mebane High School, leads the procession. School spirit runs high for the Class of 1969.
DRONE: Continued from page A1
A6 Alachua County Today LOCAL NEWS Thursday, December 03, 2015
Zero, zip, zilch
No matter how you say it, Humana has Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiumsLooking for a lower premium Medicare plan? How does $0 a month sound?You can get great benefits, plus the extras you want – all for a $0 monthly plan premium.
352-347-8149 (TTY: 711)Call a licensed sales agent 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday
*According to the July 2015 CMS Enrollment ReportHumana is a Medicare Advantage HMO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in this Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and member cost share may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call toll free 1-877-713-6176 (TTY: 711). Hours are 5 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week. Applicable to Humana Gold Plus® (HMO) H1036-143.This information is available for free in other languages. Please contact a licensed Humana sales agent toll free at 1-877-713-6176 (TTY: 711). Esta información está disponible gratuitamente en otros idiomas. Póngase en contacto con un agente de ventas certificado de Humana, llame gratis al 1-855-842-3436 (TTY: 711).Y0040_GHHHXCFENTE16_2 Approved PAN 11/15
And that’s just for starters. Call to find out what else you can get for a $0 premium.
• Prescription drug coverage• Convenient mail-order prescription coverage• Doctor’s office visits and hospital coverage• Fitness program - gym membership at no additional cost• Dental, Vision and Hearing coverage
MedicareAdvantage
plan!
Join Florida’slargest
Celebratingover
10 years in Alachua County