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Deb's Deli expands with indoor seating

Debbie Jennings stands in part of the added area where indoor seating adds to the ambiance and convenience of the wonderful delicatessen named Deb’s Deli.
 
Story and Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © March 23, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
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     OLD TOWN – Mike and Debbie Jennings, owners of Deb’s Deli, 26628 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, in Old Town – across the street from the weigh station and next to where Dixie Music Center used to be, made an announcement that is bound to make diners happy.

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     This amazing deli already had some outdoor seating and a couple of indoor seats near the service counter. Now it is even better.
     As readers correctly would presume from the headline, Deb's Deli is expanding with indoor seating.
     Debbie and Mike Jennings both took some minutes Friday (March 21) to share details about the expansion. The deli now includes a room that adjoins the original structure.
     Diners who want to stay indoors can take one step up and find one of the 12 seats available either at tables or at a countertop.
     A door to exit that area goes directly to the parking lot, too.
     Deb’s Deli is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
     Patrons can enjoy daily specials, signature items and heat and eat dinners.
     Deb’s Deli has Boar’s Head meats, and much more.
     There are nine different signature sandwiches all with a choice of white, multigrain, sourdough and croissant. All sandwiches come with a side of potato salad, macaroni salad, pasta salad or coleslaw, or a bag of chips – like Fritos, for instance.
     There are six different named subs, or a person can create their own custom sub -- where they can choose two meats, one cheese and toppings. 
     There are special soups of the day.
     Sushi is available only on Wednesday, and then only until it is gone. Please call Tuesday to order sushi to pick up the next day. The phone number is 352-440-2578.
     Sandwiches, subs, soups, sushi, and salads are among the menu items at Deb’s Deli.
     The five salads are Greek salad, chef salad, Caesar salad, Caprese and house salad. 
     Salad dressings available are ranch, homemade blue cheese, Italian, 1,000 island, an oil vinegar vinaigrette, homemade Caesar, Catalina and honey mustard. 
     There is even a kid’s menu, which includes grilled cheese, PB&J 
with grape or strawberry jelly, Nutella and sliced banana sandwiches, and a hotdog with catsup or mustard. 
     Speaking of hotdogs, there are six different hotdog types with all of them being quarter-pound Boars Head.
     From the deli services, there are catered meat and cheese trays available as well. Party trays include charcuterie and sandwich trays. The deli folks ask customers to please order the party trays 48 hours in advance.
     Deb’s Deli is a wonderful place to visit and now there are more seats for people to dine there, too. 
     To read the Sept. 9, 2022 story about Deb’s Deli opening, click HERE.

Levy County Courthouse
public entrance relocated
Information Provided
By Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Matt Brooks
Published March 22, 2025 at 8:30 p.m.
     BRONSON – Visitors to the Levy County Courthouse next week, will notice changes to the public entryway.
     Starting Monday, March 24, individuals will enter through the Administrative Wing of the courthouse, which is located immediately next door to the Supervisor of Elections Office.
     All necessary work has been completed by Levy County Construction and Maintenance staff members, the Eighth Judicial Circuit Information Technology team and the Levy County Sheriff’s Office Courthouse Security staff.
     The public will be welcomed at this new entrance Monday. Security screening remains consistent with what the public is accustomed to before this revision of entrances.
     There are NO WEAPONS ALLOWED in the Levy County Courthouse. This includes pocketknives. Briefcases, purses and all containers will be inspected.
     For more information on conducting business at the Levy County Courthouse, please visit https://levyclerk.com/ or call the offices at 352-486-5266.

BMP manuals updated
for agricultural interests in Florida


Information and Graphic Provided By FDACS Communications
Published March 22, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.
     TALLAHASSEE – Yesterday (Friday, March 21), Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the completion of major updates to nine existing agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) manuals, which provide specific, research-based practices to agricultural producers to improve water quality, along with the introduction of a new BMP manual for small farms and specialty livestock.
     Commissioner Simpson is the elected leader of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
     These updates, all completed since Commissioner Simpson took office in January 2023, mark the first comprehensive revisions in nearly 20 years for some manuals, reflecting advancements in agricultural science, water quality research, and on-the-ground practices.
     “Florida's farmers, ranchers, and growers are the original stewards of our land and water resources, and these updates ensure they have the latest, most effective tools to continue producing the safe, affordable, and abundant food supply we all rely on,” Commissioner Simpson said. “These Best Management Practices manuals, updated in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida, and industry partners, provide real solutions that benefit both Florida's natural resources and our agricultural economy.
     Scott Angle, the University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), commended Simpson on this work. 
     “Sound science is a foundation of Florida farmers’ success,” Angle said. “They rely on research that demonstrates what works in the field, in the grove and on the ranch. Commissioner Simpson is to be lauded for focusing on evidence-based agricultural practices that provide guidance on how farmers can best achieve water quality goals and support their livelihoods.”
     Phillip Hisey, a licensed irrigation and landscape professional and 2024-25 president of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, agrees that this work is excellent.
     “BMPs are a promise to the future—ensuring that our landscapes are sustainable and our natural resources are preserved,” Hisey said. “We are grateful to FDACS and UF|IFAS for working with the industry to develop these effective and practical guidelines.” 
     A leader from Florida’s cattle industry concurs.
     “Millions of acres of Florida's pastures and ranchlands do more than sustain cattle – they replenish groundwater, release oxygen and serve as vital green space. I commend Commissioner Simpson, FDACS and UF|IFAS for their leadership in incorporating the latest research and sustainable practices into the BMP manual for cattle operations, benefiting ranchers and conserving Florida's landscape now and in the future," said Dale Carlton, co-owner and operator of Roman III Ranch, Horse Creek Ranch and C&B Cattle and president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association.
     Others spoke highly of Commissioner Simpson’s work since he took office. 
     “Since Commissioner Wilton Simpson took office in 2023, he has taken a proactive approach to protecting Florida's water quality and preserving its natural resources, and the updated Best Management Practices (BMPs) reflect his leadership. I applaud these practical measures that support the growth of Florida's agriculture while protecting the environment and sustaining the state’s beautiful landscape,” said Ernie Barnett, executive director of the Florida Land Council.
     “Florida growers and ranchers have long been leaders in the implementation of Best Management Practices to help grow our nation’s food supply and protect our state’s natural resources for future generations,” said Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association President Mike Joyner. “We are grateful to Commissioner Simpson for leading and prioritizing this significant effort to make needed updates to the BMP manuals. These new BMPs better align with the water quality goals of the program and ensure the overall requirements are practical and economically viable for growers.”
     “Like my family’s citrus operation, Florida's citrus industry was an early adopter of BMPs to improve water quality and conserve water,” said Kyle Story, vice president of The Story Companies and president of Florida Citrus Mutual. “Thank you, Commissioner Simpson, for leading FDACS and UF|IFAS in updating the citrus BMP manual with science-based practices like low-volume irrigation and precision nutrient application to address challenges like citrus greening and help us grow sustainably while protecting the environment.”
     “Thank you, Commissioner Simpson, for leading the tremendous effort of updating the dairy BMP manual to include the latest science and real-world practices that enhance Florida's water quality, soil health and the environment, while also helping Florida's dairy operations run smoothly. The dedication of FDACS and UF|IFAS to balance operational productivity with environmental sustainability will help dairy farmers across Florida continue to care for the land we rely on,” said Ray Hodge, executive director of the United Dairy Farmers of Florida.
     “Under Commissioner Simpson’s leadership, FDACS and UF|IFAS have worked tirelessly to lay a strong foundation for best management practices to address growers’ needs for practical solutions within the larger framework of protecting Florida’s water quality. I believe our industry’s updated BMP manual is a testament to Commissioner Simpson’s leadership and commitment to conservation and the people responsible for implementing these best practices,” said Jamie Tedder, vice president of turf at Bethel Farms and board president of Turfgrass Producers of Florida.Under Florida law, BMPs are defined as the most effective and practical means to improve water quality in agricultural and urban discharges. These practices are developed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Water Policy (OAWP) in coordination with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), and industry experts.
     BMPs help agricultural producers improve water quality while maintaining productivity and economic viability. Categories of BMPs include:
     ● Nutrient Management – Assessing nutrient needs and sources to optimize fertilizer use and reduce runoff impacts on water resources.
     ● Irrigation Management – Enhancing irrigation methods and scheduling to conserve water and minimize nutrient losses to the environment.
     ● Water Resource Protection – Implementing buffers, setbacks, and swales to reduce sediment and nutrient transport from agricultural lands to Florida’s waterways.
     The following BMP Manuals have been updated since Commissioner Wilton Simpson took office: Citrus Operations; Cattle Operations; Dairy Operations; Equine Operations; Nursery Operations; Poultry Operations; Sod Operations; Specialty Fruit and Nut Crops Operations; Vegetable and Agronomic Crops Operations; and Small Farms and Specialty Livestock Operations
     The updated BMP manuals are available on the FDACS website, where producers can access the latest guidelines and resources. For more information, visit https://www.fdacs.gov/.

Levy County names
new director of utilities and maintenance
Water rates
for county customers may increase
Information Provided By Levy County Manager Mary-Ellen Harper
Published March 22, 2025 at 9 a.m.
     BRONSON -- Levy County Manager Mary-Ellen Harper recently announced that newly appointed Levy County Director of Utilities and Maintenance Benny Jerrels and the staff of the Levy County Water Department have submitted all of the required documentation to the Florida Rural Water Association (FRWA) to have revenue requirements and rate analysis studies completed for Levy County’s University Oaks and Manatee Water utilities.
     The FRWA assists water and wastewater systems in Florida, including providing impact fee studies and recommendations to member utilities. A revenue requirements and rate analysis
study analyzes revenue requirements, determines whether utility user rates are adequate to meet operational expenses, and recommends rational and evenhanded rates for individual utility systems.
     The Manatee Water rates have remained relatively unchanged since 1998, and the University Oaks rates have been in the same state since 2014.
     FRWA estimates that the studies will take approximately 60 days to complete. Levy County Manager Mary-Ellen Harper is scheduled to present the completed studies to the members of the Levy County Board of County Commissioners, who will consider whether to adopt the recommended changes to the rates for either or both water systems.

COC Executive Director Hired

Hunter Allen was recently appointed as the Gilchrist County Chamber Of Commerce executive director. The young man is graduating from the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications with a Bachelor of Science degree in May. The Gilchrist County Chamber of Commerce office is open Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The office is located in the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners building, 209 S.E. First St., Trenton. The Chamber phone number is 352-463-3467. The email is Chamber@GilchristCounty.com.
Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © March 18, 2025 at 3:45 p.m.
All Rights Reserved

Region shows continued job growth
By Laura Byrnes, APR, CPRC
Communications Manager
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion
Published March 17, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.
     OCALA – The jobless rate in the CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion region was 4.8 percent in January, 0.7 percentage point more than in December 2024 and half a percent higher than the region’s year ago rate of 4.3 percent.
     According to preliminary employment data released today by FloridaCommerce, the labor force was 233,823, an expansion of 2,306 over the month and an increase of 4,224 compared to January 2024. There were 222,501 employed residents across the three-county area, an increase of 398 since the previous month and 2,875 more over the year. There were 11,322 unemployed residents in the region, up 1,908 over the month and 1,349 more than January 2024.
     Rusty Skinner, CareerSource CLM’s CEO noted that since FloridaCommerce recalibrates employment data during the month of February for the previous calendar year, “it is best to compare the January 2025 data with both the December 2024 and January 2024 data.”
      “From (January) a year ago and December, our labor force and employment numbers have shown growth, with Marion showing the largest,” Skinner said. “In each case, unfortunately, the number of unemployed, as well as the percentage has increased, largely reflecting seasonal shifts.”
     Skinner pointed out that in January, all of Florida’s counties experienced unemployment rate increases over the month and year except Miami-Dade which was unchanged compared to December 2024 and Taylor County which dropped slightly compared to the previous January.
      “What is important to remember is that jobs are available in our area,” he said. “For those who find themselves needing additional skills for the jobs they seek, CareerSource CLM has funds to help gain those skills.”
     For January 2025, Levy County continued to post the region’s lowest jobless rates at 4.4 percent, up half a percent over the month and year, followed by Marion County at 4.6 percent, up 0.7 of 1 percentage point over the month and 0.4 percentage point more compared to January 2025. Citrus County’s rate of 5.8 percent was 1.1 percent higher than the previous month and 0.8 percentage point increase over the year.
     Florida’s not seasonally adjusted rate, which matches how local rates are determined, was 3.7 percent, up half a percent over the month and year.
     Citrus County’s labor force of 54,052 expanded by 598 over the month and 601 over the year. The county had 50,933 workers in January, an increase of 12 compared to the previous month and 156 more compared to January 2024. There were 3,119 unemployed, 586 more over the month and 445 more over the year.
     Levy County’s labor force was 19,201, an increase of 148 over the month and expansion of 276 compared to the previous January. There were 18,357 individuals employed, 38 more than in December 2024 and an increase of 168 over the year. The county had 844 unemployed residents, which was 110 over the month and 108 compared to January 2024.
     Marion County’s labor force was 160,570, up 1,560 over the month and 3,347 more than January 2024. There were 153,211 employed, an increase of 348 compared to the previous month and 2,551 more over the year. The county had 7,359 unemployed, an increase of 1,212 over the month and 796 more than January a year ago.
     In January, Citrus County held the third highest jobless rate among Florida’s 67 counties. Marion County tied at 13th with Flagler, Hardee, Indian River, Putnam and Washington counties. Levy County ranked 23rd along with Gadsen, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, Suwanee and Volusia counties.
     Nonfarm employment in the Ocala Metropolitan Statistical Area, which covers all of Marion County, was 124,200, an increase of 2,400 jobs (+2.0 percent) over the year.
     Industries that grew faster in the metro area than statewide over the year were: Mining, Logging, and Construction (+5.1 percent); Government (+3.7 percent); Financial Activities (+2.3 percent); Leisure and Hospitality (+1.4 percent); and Professional and Business Services (+0.9 percent).
     The Ocala MSA had the third fastest annual job growth rate compared to all other metro areas in the state in the Mining, Logging, and Construction industry which added 500 jobs over the year.
     Other industries gaining jobs over the year were Education and Health Services (+600 jobs); Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+300 jobs); Leisure and Hospitality (+200 jobs); Financial Activities (+100 jobs); Professional and Business Services (+100 jobs); and Other Services (+100 jobs).
     The Manufacturing industry was unchanged over the year and the Information industry lost 100 jobs.
     Nonagricultural jobs in the Homosassa Springs MSA, which covers all Citrus County, was 36,000, an increase of 100 jobs (+0.3 percent) over the year. The Government industry gained 100 jobs.
     Due to annual benchmarking conducted by FloridaCommerce in February, the region’s preliminary employment summary for February is scheduled to be released on Friday, March 28.

Five Moves For Young Investors
Published March 17, 2025 at 10 a.m.
     NEWBERRY -- If you’re just beginning your career, what are your financial priorities?     You might have student loans to deal with. And you may even be thinking about saving for a down payment on a house. These are certainly significant issues, and yet, you shouldn’t ignore your long-term goals, such as retirement — which is why you may want to get started as an investor. 
     And as you invest, consider these suggestions:  
     1. Take advantage of your opportunities. Even while addressing your other concerns, such as loan payments, you may well have space in your life to invest — if you take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. For example, if you work for a business that offers a 401(k) or other retirement plan, try to put in as much as you can afford, or at least enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. And you may find that contributing to a traditional 401(k) or similar plan is more affordable than you think, as your contributions may be deductible, lowering your taxable income.
     2. Think long-term. Some people make the mistake of seeking short-term gains by trying to “time” the market — that is, they try to “buy low and sell high.” While this is a great strategy in theory, it’s almost impossible to follow, as no one can really predict market highs and lows. The most successful investors follow a long-term strategy and don’t jump in and out of the market.  
     3. Know your risk tolerance. Your investment choices should be based partially on your risk tolerance. Typically, the more investment risk you take on, the greater the potential reward, but it works the other way, too — riskier investments can result in greater losses, at least in the short term. You need to find a risk level with which you are comfortable. Also, your risk tolerance can change over time — when you get close to retirement, for instance, you might want to invest more conservatively than you did when you still had decades ahead of you in the working world. 
     4. Diversify your investments. The financial markets affect different investments in different ways, which means that, at any given time, some investments will perform better than others. But if you only owned one type of investment or asset class, your portfolio could suffer if a market downturn had a particularly strong effect on that investment or asset. By spreading your investment dollars among a range of investments, you’ll have more opportunities for success, and you can help reduce the effects of market volatility on your holdings. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against all losses.
     5. Prepare for the unexpected. You don’t always know when you’ll face a large expense, such as a medical bill or a major home repair. If you’re not prepared, you could be forced to dip into your long-term investments, such as your 401(k), to pay for these costs. To help avoid this problem, you may want to take steps such as keeping a cushion of cash in your portfolio and building an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account. 
     By putting these moves to work, you can help yourself make progress on an investment journey that could last a lifetime. 
     Publisher’s Note: This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Edward Jones Financial Advisor - Sheila K. Smith and Edward Jones Financial Advisor Ashlyn Burtle, 25349 W. Newberry Road, in Newberry. Phone 352-472-2776.

Duke Energy Florida rewards customers
for reducing electric system strain
during high demand periods
Information Provided By Duke News Center
Published March 14, 2025 at 5 p.m.
     ST. PETERSBURG -- With the summer months and sweltering temperatures quickly approaching, Duke Energy Florida is highlighting EnergyWise Home, a voluntary program that rewards customers with up to $141 in annual bill credits for enrolling select appliances – central air conditioning units, electric water heaters and/or pool pumps – and allowing the company to temporarily cycle those appliances off during periods of high electricity demand.
     With the summer months and sweltering Participation in the EnergyWise Home program helps maintain steady rates for all Duke Energy Florida customers, while also preserving the state’s natural resources. By reducing the strain on the electric system during times of peak energy usage, the company can avoid purchasing power on the open market, which tends to be more expensive, and using older, less efficient power plants that are costlier to operate. Additionally, it delays the need to build new power plants and transmission lines.
     With the summer months and sweltering “The EnergyWise Home program is one of the many tools we have in our energy efficiency toolbox,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “It’s an easy, effective way for our customers to lower their electric bills and help meet their communities’ – and Florida’s – considerable energy needs.”
     With the summer months and sweltering Duke Energy Florida uses a small device, installed at no charge to the customer, to cycle off appliances enrolled in EnergyWise Home. Most events occur on weekdays, rather than weekends or holidays, and start with electric water heaters and pool pumps, which can be cycled off for up to five hours. Central air conditioning units are the last to be cycled off – up to 16.5 minutes every 30 minutes – and are rarely impacted. 
     Currently, approximately 430,000 Duke Energy Florida customers across the state participate in the EnergyWise Home program. They receive credits prorated according to their electricity usage; however, credits are issued any time their usage exceeds 600 kilowatt-hours, even when no interruptions are experienced.  
     To learn more about EnergyWise Home and/or enroll in the program, please click HERE  and/or call 888-282-9757.

Aquaculture grows the economy

A clam farmer removes his harvest from a boat in Cedar Key. In 2023, clams accounted for $32 million of Florida’s $43 million in mollusk sales.
Photo By Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS

Information and Photo Provided By University of Florida/IFAS
Published March 12, 2025 at 8:30 p.m.
     GAINESVILLE -- As people in the United States celebrate National Agriculture Week, March 16 through March 22, they may remember that aquaculture is a form of agriculture.
     In Florida, aquaculture is responsible for generating more than $165 million annually through sales from an estimated 1,500 varieties of food fish, bait fish, mollusks, aquatic plants, alligators, turtles, crustaceans, amphibians, caviar and ornamental fish.
     “Just like terrestrial, land-based agriculture, aquaculture is the process of growing or raising a product,” said Shirley Baker, University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) professor of aquaculture and associate director of the School of Forest, Fisheries and Geomatics Sciences. “The people who do the work consider themselves farmers. Their products are simply plants and animals grown or raised underwater.”
     Some of the most common Florida food fish are tilapia, striped bass, cobia, pompano and red drum. They’re housed in various ways. Operations can include fiberglass ponds, vats and tanks inside greenhouses and recirculating systems occupying entire
warehouses. Farmers typically start with fingerlings, or juvenile fish, purchased from reputable suppliers.
     Mollusks are a significant contributor to Florida aquaculture.   
     While the sector includes oysters and scallops, clams are the dominating commodity. In 2023, clams brought in $32 million of the state’s $43 million in mollusk sales.
     Clam farmers generally obtain grain-sized seed clams from hatcheries. The smallest varieties are initially cared for in nursery systems. Once the shells become large enough, they’re transferred to bags submerged off the coast.
     Cedar Key resident Heath Davis transitioned from fishing commercially by nets to farming clams in the mid-1990s. He and his father, Mike Davis, own Cedar Key Seafarms, one of the state’s leading wholesale clam distributors.
     “Before, as fishermen, we would go out and place nets wherever we thought the fish were,” Heath Davis said. “But clamming is like farming. We lease a two-acre, underwater plot from the state and harvest the product from our designated field.”
     Florida’s climate, infrastructure, streamlined regulations and positive business environment have positioned the state to become the national leader in aquaculture, but innovation is required to remain competitive, according to the document.
     It’s a message Heath Davis echoed.
     “Aquaculture farming is such a huge part of Florida’s economy,” he said. “It could hold some of the answers needed to sustain the growing number of people living on this peninsula.”

Local artists endorse supporting
the Cedar Key Fine Arts Festival

Jerry and Susan Remillard of Southwest Ranches (a town in Broward County) are seen at a previous annual art festival in Cedar Key.

Information and Photo Provided
By Event Coordinators - Arts Center Committee - Bev Ringenberg, Faye Sanders, Patsy Schossler, Mary Prescott, Ann Morgan, Deb Mann, Denise Fieber, Kathy O'Neall, Sue Rosenthal, Eileen Senecal, Dawn Callahan, and Jim and Marci Wilcox
Published March 12, 2025 at 8:30 a.m.
     CEDAR KEY – Event coordinators are urging people to Show their support for Cedar Key’s Fine Arts Festival and the talented artists who will be in Cedar Key on Saturday, April 5, by becoming a Purchase Award Patron.     Many of the artists, like Jerry and Susan Remillard of Southwest Ranches (a town in Broward County) are planning to show and sell their art this year because they love Cedar Key and want to support Cedar Key in its recovery from hurricane damage. 
     To make it possible for more people to participate in the Purchase Award Program this year, the price has gone down to $150 per coupon. Every dollar will go toward the coupon buyer’s purchases. 
     There will be a wide variety of high quality, creative artwork to choose from including ceramics, fiber arts, glass, jewelry, painting, mixed-media, wood and sculpture. A well-funded Purchase Award Program shows that there is broad community support for the event.
     Anyone who is interested in supporting the event that has contributed to Cedar Key’s reputation as a destination for artists and art enthusiasts during its 60-year history and to say thank you to the artists that have chosen to join the festival this year, is asked to contact event coordinators at CedarKeyArtsFestival@gmail.com.
     More information about the benefits of the Purchase Award Program to the festival and how it works can be found by clicking HERE.

NASA receives some data before
Intuitive Machines
ends lunar mission early
Information Provided By NASA News
Published March 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
     WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Shortly after touching down inside a crater on the Moon, carrying National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) technology and science on its IM-2 mission, Intuitive Machines collected some data for the agency before calling an early end of mission at 12:15 a.m. CST (1:15 a.m. Eastern Standard Time) Friday (March 7).
     As part of the company’s second Moon delivery for NASA under the agency’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative and Artemis campaign, the IM-2 mission included a drill to bring lunar soil to the surface and a mass spectrometer to look for the presence of volatiles, or gases, that could one day help provide fuel or breathable oxygen to future Artemis explorers.
     Planned to land at Mons Mouton, IM-2 touched down at approximately 11:30 a.m. March 6, more than 1,300 feet (400 meters) from its intended landing site. Intuitive Machines said images collected later confirmed the lander was on its side, preventing it from fully operating the drill and other instruments before its batteries were depleted.
     The IM-2 mission landed closer to the lunar South Pole than any previous lander.
      “Our targeted landing site near the lunar South Pole is one of the most scientifically interesting, and geographically challenging locations, on the Moon,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator for science at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. “Each success and setback are opportunities to learn and grow, and we will use this lesson to propel our efforts to advance science, exploration, and commercial development as we get ready for human exploration of Mars.”
     The Nova-C lander, named Athena, captured and transmitted images of the landing site before activating the technology and science instruments. Among the data collected, NASA’s PRIME-1 (Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment 1) suite, which includes the lunar drill known as TRIDENT (The Regolith and Ice Drill for Exploring New Terrain), successfully demonstrated the hardware’s full range of motion in the harsh environment of space. The Mass Spectrometer Observing Lunar Operations (MSOLO) as part of the PRIME-1 suite of instruments, detected elements likely due to the gases emitted from the lander’s propulsion system. 
      “While this mission didn’t achieve all of its objectives for NASA, the work that went into the payload development is already informing other agency and commercial efforts,” said Clayton Turner, associate administrator for space technology, NASA Headquarters. “As we continue developing new technologies to support exploration of the Moon and Mars, testing technologies in-situ is crucial to informing future missions. The CLPS initiative remains an instrumental method for achieving this.”
     Despite the lander’s configuration, Intuitive Machines, which was responsible for launch, delivery, and surface operations under its CLPS contract, was able to complete some instrument checkouts and collect 250 megabytes of data for NASA.
      “Empowering American companies to deliver science and tech to the Moon on behalf of NASA both produces scientific results and continues development of a lunar economy,” said Joel Kearns, deputy associate administrator for Exploration in the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. “While we’re disappointed in the outcome of the IM-2 mission, we remain committed to supporting our commercial vendors as they navigate the very difficult task of landing and operating on the Moon.”
     NASA’s Laser Retroreflector Array, a passive instrument meant to provide a reference point on the lunar surface and does not power on, will remain affixed to the top deck of the lander. Although Intuitive Machines' Nova-C Hopper and Nokia's 4G/LTE Tipping Point technologies, funded in part by NASA, were only able to complete some objectives, they provided insight into maturing technologies ready for infusion into a commercial space application including some checkouts in flight and on the surface.
     Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission launched at 6:16 p.m., Feb. 26, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
     Intuitive Machines has two more deliveries on the books for NASA in the future, with its IM-3 mission slated for 2026, and IM-4 mission in 2027.
     To date, five vendors have been awarded a total of 11 lunar deliveries under CLPS and are sending more than 50 instruments to various locations on the Moon, including the Moon’s far side and South Pole region. CLPS contracts are indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contracts with a cumulative maximum contract value of $2.6 billion through 2028.

SRF sees increase in debt dodgers
By Jeff M. Hardison © March 6, 2025 at 4 p.m.
     CROSS CITY – UF/IFAS Dixie County Extension Director Holly Houghton told the Dixie County Commission on Thursday morning (March 6) that the annual Suwannee River Fair (SRF) Youth Livestock Show and Sale started last Friday (Feb. 28) with the dog show and other aspects.
     The SRF this year includes events Friday, Saturday and Sunday March 7-8). Friday evening is the rabbit show. Saturday is the poultry and dairy cattle shows. This is the day for the ag-life contest, the beef cattle show, the bull show, and the heifer show. Sunday is the BBQ contest and the goat doe show.
     Events on March 14 through 19 are numerous, and include a wrap-up of 2025 SRF with the livestock sales.
     The livestock sales, Hough said, have always included some people who bid on children’s animals at auction, but they did not pay their bills. For the past couple of years this set of bad debtors have waited until as long as just before the next year’s annual show and sale to pay their bills.
     The amount of bad debt for 2024 that Hough mentioned was in the $50,000 range.
     This has cause the SRF bank account to carry the bead debt for as many as we months.
     Hough said the current SRF Board of Directors are discussing this problem. Among her comments on Thursday morning was that a person who owes $3,000 and then accumulates a bill of $3,300 over 12 months with the possible interest to be charged, is no more likely to pay the $3,300 bill as they are to pay the $3,000 bill.
     For more information about the SRF schedule of events, click HERE.
     To see one of the many stories with photos from past SRF events, click HERE to see the March 20, 206 story “Mr. Loran’s BBQ Contest draws FFA competitors.”

Road Department retiree honored

(from left) Commission Chair Desiree Mills, Commissioner Johnny Hiers, Road Department Construction Superintendent Jessie Durrance, Commission Vice Chair Tim Hodge, retiring Road and Bridge Department employee Arthur Seckinger, County Commissioner Charlie Kennedy, Doris Seckinger (Arthur’s wife of 40 years), County Commissioner Rock Meeks, Levy County HR Director Jacqueline Smith and Lincoln Cannon of the Road and Bridge Department.

Story and Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © March 5, 2025 at 3 p.m.
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     BRONSON – Levy County Human Resources Director Jaqueline Martin was given an opportunity to honor a Levy County Road Department who is retiring.     The action was not on the March 4 agenda, but the commissioners unanimously agreed to approve this non-agenda item for action.
     Arthur Seckinger has worked for the Levy County Road Department for more than 26 years, Martin said.
     She read the framed plaque created by the County Commission, which noted it is a certificate of appreciation for Seckinger’s more than 26 years of loyal and dedicated service to the people of Levy County prior to his well-earned retirement.
     Levy County Commission Chair Desiree Mills thanked the man for his service and she said she hopes he enjoys his retirement.


Road Department Construction Superintendent Jessie Durrance (right) expresses his thought to Arthur Seckinger as the county worker is honored Tuesday morning (March 4). Seckinger is seen holding the plaque he was given, and this is just before everyone posed for a photo opportunity.

     Levy County Road Department Construction Superintendent Jessie Durrance told Seckinger that this is another life goal that has been completed, “and you’ve done a good job with it.”
     On behalf of the Road Department Construction Superintendent Durrance said, “Thank you. I appreciate it. That is a job well done.”
     The County Commission provided a photo opportunity with the retiree, two of his colleagues in the Road Department and with the human resources director for the County Commission.

DeSantis welcomes
SpaceX’s Starship to Florida
Information Provided By Governor’s Press Office
Published March 4, 2025 at 7 a.m.
     TALLAHASSEE -- Yesterday (Monday, March 3), Gov. Ron DeSantis welcomed SpaceX’s decision to bring Starship launch capacities and processing operations to Florida.
     Starship will be the first rapidly and fully reusable launch vehicle in history, designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
     In support of these missions, SpaceX will construct new launch and landing infrastructure for Starship at multiple pads within NASA’s Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, pending environmental approval, as well as a new integration facility, called Gigabay, which will have more than 40 million cubic feet of vehicle processing space.
     The project includes at least $1.8 billion of SpaceX capital investment and will bring an estimated 600 new full-time jobs in the Space Coast by 2030.
     “Florida is the present and future of the space industry with leading space companies—like SpaceX—investing in the Free State of Florida,” DeSantis said. “We welcome SpaceX’s Starship to our state.”
     SpaceX’s vice president of launch was noted as commenting via the press release from the governor.
     “SpaceX was founded with the ultimate mission of making humanity multiplanetary, and Starship is the vehicle that will enable us to become a spacefaring civilization,” SpaceX Vice President of Launch Kiko Dontchev said. “Through this significant expansion of Starship production and launch capabilities in Florida, we’re taking a big step toward achieving this goal, and we are grateful to our partners across the State for their ongoing support.”
     Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly commended the work of DeSantis in regard to the state providing space-oriented enterprises an environment for growth.
     “SpaceX’s investment in Florida is the direct result of strategic, critical investments made by the governor in aerospace and aviation infrastructure and workforce development that will have long-term, positive impacts on the lives of Florida’s families and communities, building economic success that will be continue impact the lives of Floridians for many generations to come,” Kelly said.
     Rocket launches out of Brevard County were cited as a positive aspect for manufacturing and business development by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) secretary.
     “SpaceX’s investment in Florida is a major victory for our state and the future of the space industry,” FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue said. “Florida continues to set the pace for space innovation, breaking records with 93 launches in 2024—up from 74 in 2023—and the state is on track to continue this record-breaking momentum into the future as a national leader in space manufacturing, launches, and business development.”

Couple Retires From Levy County Jobs

Lt. Todd Polo is seen just outside the Levy County Courthouse in Bronson on Friday morning (Feb. 28), his last day as a paid employee of the Levy County Sheriff’s Office. Here he is in his civilian attire, which he will become accustomed to wearing as he enters retirement. The LCSO lieutenant served 32 years with the Sheriff’s Office before retiring. His wife Margaret Polo retired the day before, on Feb. 27, after serving more than 20 years combined between her work in the Levy County School District and most recently with the Levy County Clerk’s Office. Lt. Polo said he is certain they will enjoy retirement, adding that the state won’t let him volunteer to help the LCSO for at least six months after his active duty.
Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © March 2, 2025 at 2 p.m.