The University of Florida has once again earned a 5-star ranking on Money magazine’s “Best Colleges in America” list. This marks the second consecutive year that UF has been recognized for its exceptional value, combining high-quality education with affordability. UF is the only university in Florida and the Southeastern Conference to receive this distinction from...

Santa Fe College students and apprentices have completed their fourteenth home built with Habitat for Humanity. It was moved to its permanent site from the school’s Northwest Campus on June 13.  Toikeith Reynolds is the new house’s owner. Reynolds told a local media outlet that “A home to me is more than just eating food...

Dave’s Hot Chicken, will open their newest location at Butler Shopping Center District. Dave’s Hot Chicken began in a parking lot in East Hollywood in 2017 and now this spicy sensation has over 205 restaurant locations across the US, Canada, and the Middle East; with additional International locations coming soon. Dave’s Hot Chicken will have...

VyStar Foundation has announced that $201,551 will be distributed among 12 recipients in its third grant cycle focused on nonprofit organizations that support military and veterans service programs. Specific funding priority was given to programs that address health and basic needs, mental health services and workforce development. VyStar Foundation distributed $201,551 among 12 nonprofits in...

Construction has begun on the Ralph W. Cellon Jr. Institute for Skilled Trades and Advanced Manufacturing, on the Northwest Campus of Santa Fe College, across from the Perry Construction Institute.  “Currently, crews are removing concrete from the former parking lot and beginning to place sand fill in preparation for foundation work,” said Jim McCall, Senior...

The City of Newberry has been recognized as one of Business View Publishing’s “Best of 2024, Best Managed Towns.”  This prestigious accolade highlights Newberry’s dedication to fostering community spirit, innovative economic growth, and sustainable development.  City Manager Mike New expressed his pride in the accolade, stating, “This recognition as a best-managed town is a testament...

At the June 11 County Commission meeting, Alachua County Manager Michele Lieberman presented the 2024 Annual Report. The video presentation highlights the county’s accomplishments over the past year and looks ahead to its goals and challenges. “This year, as I reviewed the excellent work of our departments, two words kept recurring: services and support –...

The City of Gainesville has completed the SW 62nd Boulevard Connector project, opening the 1.1-mile roadway one month ahead of schedule. The new span links the Newberry Road and Oaks Mall area with the Archer Road and Butler Plaza area, improving accessibility, safety and shaving time off neighborhood commutes.  Funded in large part by a...

Consumer sentiment in Florida edged down two-tenths of a point in May to 73.1 from a revised figure of 73.3 in April. This slight decline contrasts with the national sentiment, which plummeted 8.1 points.  “The decline in consumer sentiment was driven by Floridians’ perceptions of current economic conditions. Although inflation is not far above the...

UF will offer three new fully online majors starting in fall 2024 as a part of its larger push to increase access for students in high-demand fields and better meet the needs of Florida’s workforce. The new bachelor’s degree offerings include: Agricultural Education & Communication, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, will prepare students for...