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Capital City Bank earns 15^th Consecutive Best Companies honor, ranks in top 10

Published Aug. 6, 2026 at 2 p.m.
     TALLAHASSEE – Capital City Bank has again been named to Florida Trend’s annual “Best Companies to Work For in Florida” list, climbing to No. 8 in the “Large Companies” category after ranking No. 11 in 2024 and No. 19 in 2023. The continued rise reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace. The 2026 issue is the 18th annual “Best Companies” edition and marks the 15th consecutive year Capital City Bank has been selected.
      “Reaching the top 10 is an honor, but what matters most is what it represents: a workplace where associates feel supported, valued and empowered to do their best work every day,” said Bill Smith, chairman, president, and CEO of Capital City Bank Group. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our associates who make Capital City Bank a great place to work.”
     The recognition by Florida Trend is one of several recent honors highlighting the performance and workplace culture at Capital City Bank. Forbes ranked Capital City Bank fourth among 100 banks on its America’s Best Banks list in February and one of the World’s Best Banks in April. The Bank has also been recognized among the top employers in the financial industry by American Banker magazine. The publication’s annual “Best Banks to Work For” feature, released in November 2025, marked the 13th consecutive year the Florida-based community bank has earned this recognition.
      “Our annual ‘Best Companies to Work For In Florida’ program is a reminder that great workplaces don’t happen by accident,” says Florida Trend Executive Editor Amy Keller. “The companies that stand out are intentional about investing in their people, creating opportunities for them to grow and building environments where employees want to be. This year, we also explore how many are thoughtfully bringing people back to the office — not simply as a policy shift, but as a way to strengthen collaboration, mentorship and culture. Their examples offer a practical roadmap for any organization looking to attract, retain and inspire great talent.”
     To participate, companies or government entities were required to have at least 15 workers in Florida and to be in operation at least one year. Companies that chose to participate underwent an evaluation of their workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The process also included a survey to measure employee satisfaction. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking.
     The “Best Companies To Work For In Florida” program is managed by Florida Trend and Workforce Research Group and is endorsed by the HR Florida State Council. Workforce Research Group managed the registration, survey and analysis and determined the final rankings.

Fiber shutdown for service succeeds
Seamless transition
to Conexon continues
Information Provided By Fiber by Central Florida
and Central Florida Electric Cooperative
Published Aug. 5, 2026 at 11 a.m.
     TRI-COUNTY AREA – The shutdown of service for Fiber by Central Florida late Tuesday night into this morning (Wednesday, Aug. 5) appears to have gone well.

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     Fiber by Central Florida customers were informed that to continue providing the fast, reliable service, the company performed scheduled maintenance on its fiber network on Aug. 4 at 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 a.m. on Aug. 5.
     During this maintenance, software updates were installed to improve the performance, stability, and reliability of the network. As part of the process, equipment at the fiber substations must be restarted, which temporarily interrupted Internet service.
     Most customers experienced a service interruption of fewer than 30 minutes.
     The scheduled work was to minimize the impact on customers.
     As noted in the monthly newsletter, Central Florida Electric Cooperative General Manager Denny George noted his appreciation to the overwhelming support of members in regard to the choice to sell Fiber by Central Florida to Conexon.
     The CFEC website notes that during the change to Conexon:
     • Service stays the same;
     • Billing, speeds, equipment, and support continue exactly as they do today; and
     • Construction and expansion efforts continue, including ongoing work in Levy County.
     Any future transition is expected to happen gradually over an extended period of time, with CFEC and Conexon working closely together to help ensure a smooth experience for both customers and employees.
This page will continue to be updated as additional information becomes available.
     General Manager George noted as of the newsletter:
     • There are 19,125 customers subscribing to Fiber by Central Florida, which is 53 percent of the possible customers.
     •  More than 36,000 homes and businesses have access to fiber Internet service.
     • The network has been built to serve 100 percent of CFEC members, with Duke Energy customers being offered the opportunity to connect as well.
     For members still considering service, Fiber by Central Florida continues to offer:
     • Fast, reliable fiber Internet service;
     • Local customer service;
     • Straightforward pricing; and
     • No contracts.
     Fiber by Central Florida has been an incredible success story for the rural electric cooperative’s members and communities.
     As the network grew, CFEC leadership and the Board of Trustees evaluated the long-term financial responsibilities and risks associated with operating both electric and broadband infrastructure in an increasingly challenging environment.
     After careful evaluation, the Board determined that partnering with Conexon represented the best long-term path to support continued growth of the fiber network while helping protect the cooperative’s long-term financial strength and stability.

Florida ag commissioner announces
permanent protection
of agricultural land in Levy & Putnam

Osceola Pines in Levy County.

Story and Photo Courtesy of FDACS Communications
Published Aug. 4, 2026 at 8 p.m.
     TALLAHASSEE – Today (Tueday, Aug. 4), Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the permanent protection of more than 1,675 acres of working Florida agricultural land through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.
     Rural lands protection easements prevent future development of the land and allow agriculture operations to continue to contribute to Florida’s economy and the production of food, timber, and other resources vital to the prosperity of Florida.
      “When we protect working agricultural land, we’re protecting Florida’s future. Every easement we complete keeps these lands in production, strengthens our rural communities, and protects them from future development,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Through historic investments in the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, we’re ensuring Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and timber producers can continue doing what they do best while preserving the landscapes and natural resources that define our state.”
     Since its inception, the department’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program has permanently preserved more than 241,000 acres of working agricultural land, with more than 176,000 acres preserved during Commissioner Simpson’s administration.
     The properties are enrolled in FDACS Best Management Practices and are located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor, which was established in state law in 2021 through the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act as a priority of then-Senate President Wilton Simpson.
Osceola Pines
     Osceola Pines, an approximately 545-acre timber operation in Levy County, has been permanently preserved from development through a rural lands protection easement, totaling $1,030,000, with $515,000 being provided through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program. Just over half of the site is in well-managed pine plantation of variable stand age. Roughly 250 acres of the site are composed of a mature cypress and wetland hardwood basin swamp which flows through the property’s entire length from north to south. Surrounding lands are a similar mosaic of plantations and wetlands.
Patricia Flanders
     Patricia Flanders, an approximately 1,131-acre timber property in Putnam County, has been permanently preserved from development through a rural lands protection easement, totaling $1,301,000. Situated just north of Ocklawaha Lake, the project consists of two tracts entirely within the Etoniah/Cross Florida Greenway Florida Forever project. The eastern tract includes planted timber and sandhill with interspersed depressional wetlands grading into shrubby and forested wetlands. The western tract is a mix of sandhill, planted timber, and riparian wetlands associated with Little Orange Creek and Cabbage Creek, which bisects the northern section of the tract.
About the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program
     Established in 2001 with the passage of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Act, the program recognizes that working agricultural lands are essential to Florida's economic future. Agricultural lands are being increasingly threatened by urban development. To counter this trend, the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program partners with farmers and ranchers to ensure sustainable production practices while protecting natural resources.
     Rural lands protection easements prevent future development of the land and allow agricultural operations to continue contributing to Florida’s economy and the production of food, timber, and other resources vital to the state’s prosperity. Additionally, by purchasing development rights through a rural lands protection easement, the program does not impose an additional burden on the taxpayer by having to maintain state-owned lands.
     Since 2022, Commissioner Simpson has helped to secure more than $1.1 billion in state funding for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, including $425 million in the 2026/2027 state budget.
     Commissioner Simpson has been involved in Florida’s land conservation policy issues long before becoming Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture. As Senate President, Commissioner Simpson championed the successful passage of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, which directed the state of Florida to better protect and connect Florida’s natural areas and wildlife habitats and to preserve working agricultural lands from future development.

Publisher enters 2026 Florida Press Club
Excellence in Journalism Competition
By Jeff M. Hardison © Aug. 3, 2025 at 3 p.m. 
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law 
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere 
     TRI-COUNTY AREA – Jeff M. Hardison, sole proprietor and publisher of the 16-year-old, multiple award-winning daily news website named HardisonInk.com has entered the 2026 Florida Press Club (FPC) Excellence in Journalism Competition, according to an announcement he made Monday afternoon (Aug. 3). 
     He is Jeff M. Hardison doing business as HardisonInk.com. Hardison noted that he is independent from being connected with any network or group of other publications. 
     Last year, he earned third place statewide in the category of – Writing, Breaking News. That annual FPC gala last year was in Palm Beach.
     In the 2024 contest he earned second place statewide in Writing, Public Safety. That annual FPC gala was at the Ocala Hilton and he attended.
     In the 2023 FPC contest, he earned both first and second place in the category of Online Independent News Site. He accepted the plaque and certificate during the annual gala at a hotel and conference center on Clearwater Beach (Pinellas County). 
     Hardison earned honors in the 2022, 2021 and 2020 FPC contest as well. Every year he entered an FPC contest since 1989, he won. And the same is true historically for the Florida Press Association (FPA) Better Newspaper Contests he entered, winning each year he entered. 
      In 2007, Hardison accepted his second FPA award in the category of Investigative Reporting, which was the category where he earned his first FPA award in 1983. 
     In the past four decades-plus, Hardison has also garnered FPA recognition in the categories of Environmental or Conservation; Community Service; Front Page Layout; and Best Full Use of Color. 
     The other FPC award he accepted was second place in the 1989 Florida Press Club contest in the category of Best Public Service. 
     The former reporter and editor of weekly newspapers, who also served as a reporter and editor at daily newspapers in Florida, said he enjoys accepting recognition from his peers in the annual contests.
     This Florida-born gentleman accepted his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communication in 1984. On Monday morning (Aug. 2), Hardison mentioned that he has a zillion unpublished stories about his adventures, including from his fun at Northeast High School in his hometown of St. Petersburg, where he wrote editorials and served as the poetry editor of the Nor’easter’s first literary edition.
     He commented on the upcoming contest, where the results will be announced some months from now. 
     “I hope the judges find some of my work as being award-worthy again,” Hardison said. “I love the Florida Press Club and its volunteers who make this event great by inviting journalists to compete, and by enlisting judges who are journalists in Florida and other states.” 
     Daily news website publisher Hardison said he is impressed by FPC President Anne Geggis and Vice President Fred Bellet as well as all of the other volunteers who keep the organization and the annual contests going.
     Hardison said he is honored to be in the mix with scores of other Florida journalists who care about freedom enough to invest their resources to help others have opportunities to learn about the state in which they live.
     Finalists for the 2026 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Competition are anticipated to be announced by late November or December.
     The 2026 FPC Gala is probably going to happen in January or February of 2027.
     First, second, and third-place winners in the 2025 FPC Excellence in Journalism Competition were announced at the annual gala on Jan. 31, 2026, in West Palm Beach.
 

Building Your Child’s Education Fund,
One Brick At A Time
Published Aug. 3, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
     NEWBERRY -- Every solid house starts with a good blueprint and a strong foundation. Saving for a child's education is very similar.
     College costs can seem daunting. In addition to tuition, you'll need to account for housing and food, books and supplies, transportation and other expenses. The average annual budget at an in-state public university runs around $30,990 today, and a private school is $65,470 according to the College Board. While most families won’t pay a college’s list price, you’ll still want to start saving as early as possible to be ready when your child is. 
     Lay the foundation early. You don’t have to wait until you have the perfect set of plans to start building. There are specific accounts designed to save for education and some do not require a minimum opening deposit. Setting up automatic recurring contributions, even modest ones, lets you build steadily over time without requiring constant attention.
     As your child ages, look for ways to redirect expenses you no longer have towards the build. For example, daycare costs, which can exceed $1,000 a month, can be shifted into a college savings account once your child enters school. Tax refunds and annual bonuses make excellent additional contributions. And others can pitch in – instead of birthday or holiday toys, ask grandparents or relatives to contribute directly to a college savings account.
     Know the size of the house you're building. Families saving for community college followed by two years at a public university might target around $65,000. Those aiming for four years at a public school are looking at roughly $100,000. Whatever the goal, plan for education inflation of about 4 percent annually, which can roughly double costs over 18 years.
     You don't have to source all the building materials yourself. Scholarships, grants, student loans and income from part-time work are all legitimate ways to help finish the structure. 
     Don't let one project consume the whole budget. One risk for parents is pouring so much into the college fund that the retirement fund goes neglected. Remember, loans and grants exist for college, but not for retirement. Striking the right balance may mean targeting a more affordable school, planning to cover only a portion of costs or adjusting retirement timelines slightly.
     Choose the right building materials. For many families, a 529 plan is the right foundation. Earnings grow tax-free, distributions are federally tax-free when used for qualified education expenses, and many states offer additional income tax deductions for contributions. Even better, anyone – such as grandparents or friends – can contribute.
     Additionally, qualified expenses for a 529 plan go beyond tuition and cover books, computers, internet access, room and board, and more. Vocational and trade schools often qualify, too, opening the door to careers in skilled trades, healthcare and technology. 
     No contractor builds alone. A knowledgeable financial advisor can help you draw up a realistic blueprint and make sure the college project doesn't crowd out the rest of your financial future. The earlier you break ground on that conversation, the stronger the structure will be.
     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 W. Burtle. Their office is located at 1845 S.W. 249th Drive, in CountryWay Town Square, Newberry. Phone 352-472-2776. 

UF lets FCC permanently put
WUFT FM 88.5 off the air
Other UF sources are available
for classical music listening

By Jeff M. Hardison © July 30, 2026 at 4 p.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     GAINESVILLE – People in North Central Florida who used to listen to classical music on the 88.5 FM frequency (call sign WUFQ, which served as a regional repeater for WUFT emergency and classic programming) hear just a static hiss now.
     “Classical music” is the broad term for formal Western art music, including symphony, opera and chamber pieces from writers like Johann Sebastian Bach (March 15, 1685-July 28, 1750), Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Jan. 27, 1756-Dec. 5, 1791), Ludwig van Beethoven (Dec. 17, 1770-March 26, 1827) as well as other composers and musical artists.
     That radio station is permanently off the air because its broadcast license was officially canceled by the Federal Communications Commission on July 22, according to records.
     WUFQ (88.5 FM), had been licensed to the Cross City (Dixie County)/Gainesville (Alachua County) area, according to records.
     The station was established in 2009 as WWLC, a replacement station for WBVM’s Lecanto (Citrus County) satellite, WLMS 88.3 FM, which, like WBVM, was owned by the neighboring Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg (Pinellas County), according to records.
     WLMS was acquired in late 2008 by the Central Florida Educational Foundation Inc. of Altamonte Springs (Seminole County) and was closed down, to enable like-minded Orlando (Orange County) station WPOZ (also on 88.3 FM) to increase its power, according to records.
     Effective July 26, 2019, the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine (Saint Johns County) donated the station's license to the University of Florida. 
     The station previously aired WUFT-HD2's “WUFT Classic.” 
     A Levy County resident who used to listen to FM 88.5 for classical music and who is a journalist search to find why UF let the FCC take it off the air.
     Randall C. “Randy” Wright, the executive director of media and college operations at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications | WUFT-TV/FM, WRUF-AM/FM/TV, provided thorough answers very quickly when asked.
     His answers are below the questions.
* Why did UF choose to let the FCC cancel its license for WUFT 88.5? 
     This was a difficult decision but one based in a need to reduce expenses as a result of funding losses from federal and state sources. WUFQ was a non-commercial license, thereby making it challenging to generate revenue through traditional underwriting and sponsorship support. WUFT-FM’s much stronger signal overlapped that of WUFQ so the classical music programming that the radio station broadcast is available 24 hours a day on WUFT-FM HD channel 2 and on 102.7 FM in the immediate Gainesville area. Continuing to operate WUFQ was creating a financial loss that our public media stations simply couldn’t justify.
* Does UF broadcast classic music anywhere? 
     Yes, WUFT-FM has a long history of providing a classical music station through what is known as WUFT Classic, a 24-hour classical and arts channel that is broadcast in the following places:
     ● 89.1 FM HD Channel 2.  This is available throughout the Gainesville-Ocala market area.
     ● 102.7 FM in the immediate Gainesville area.
     ● WUFT.org (streaming audio) https://www.wuft.org/classic
     ● WUFT Classic Public Radio App (for free download on Apple or Android devices)
* Is this part of the aftermath of President Trump and Congress rescinding $1.1 billion in federal support allocated for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which Congress approved in July 2025, cutting off taxpayer money for NPR, PBS, and local member stations, as reported in part by NPR?
     WUFT was hit especially hard by a combination of the federal rescission and the line-item veto of the decades-long support the Florida legislature has provided to public broadcasters in the state of Florida. This, more than $1 million hit to the station’s budget, has created challenges which we’re working through but having to set some priorities around the core stations and programming. Our team is doing an incredible job of navigating the landscape, we have a Dean who is an amazing advocate for the impact our stations make in the community (and the classroom) and WUFT (including WUFT Classic) will continue to be a significant part of our community and University. 

The Honorable James M. Colaw elected
as Eighth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge
The Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit
Chief Judge William E. Davis set to retire
Information and Photo Provided 
By Communications Coordinator Christy Cain
Eighth Judicial Circuit, Court Administration
Published July 29, 2026 at 7:45 a.m.
     GAINESVILLE -- The judges of the Eighth Judicial Circuit have elected the Honorable James M. Colaw to serve as Chief Judge for the remainder of Chief Judge William E. Davis’ term following his retirement. Judge Colaw’s term as Chief Judge will begin on Jan. 5, 2027.
     The Eighth Judicial Circuit includes Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties. There are 20 judicial circuits for Florida’s 67 counties.

     The Chief Judge serves as the administrative officer of the court and works closely with the Trial Court Administrator to develop and implement local court policies and procedures. The Chief Judge is also responsible for overseeing the assignment of judges to divisions and representing the judiciary at both the local and state levels.

James M. Colaw

     Judge Colaw earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Carnegie Mellon University. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law.
     Judge Colaw served as a prosecuting attorney for 15 years in both the Eighth and Fourth Judicial circuits before being appointed to the Eighth Judicial Circuit bench by Gov. Rick Scott in 2013. Since then, he has presided over nearly every type of case in each county of the Eighth Judicial Circuit and currently serves as the Administrative Judge of the Circuit Criminal Division.
     Judge Colaw has served on the Supreme Court Committee on Standard Jury Instructions in Criminal Cases, the Criminal Justice Committee of the Florida Conference of Circuit Judges, The Florida Bar Criminal Law Certification Committee, The Florida Bar Standing Committee on Professionalism, and the National Board of Trial Advocacy Board of Directors. He has served as faculty for the Supreme Court Standing Committee on Fairness & Diversity’s Sentencing Bias program, the Florida Conference of Circuit Court Judges Death Penalty Seminar, the University of Florida Levin College of Law Trial Practice Program as an adjunct faculty member, and the Florida Institute on Interpersonal Violence Domestic Violence Training for Judges.
     In addition, he has taught at the Florida Conference of Circuit Court Judges Phase I Judicial College (Mock Trial) and Phase II Judicial College (Criminal Fundamentals). Since 2021, he has served on the Alachua County Courthouse Security Committee.

New leadership team
for the Office of Florida Agricultural
Water Policy announced
Information Provided By FDACS Communications
Published July 28, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.
     TALLAHASSEE -- Yesterday (Monday, July 27), Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the new leadership team for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Water Policy, with Jessica Ferris serving as director and Megan Seward as assistant director.
     Ferris previously served as the office's interim director and will now lead the office permanently.
     “Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward are proven public servants with extensive experience in agriculture, natural resources, environmental policy and government operations, and I know they will build on the historic successes of our Office of Agricultural Water Policy,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Florida's farmers and ranchers are the original conservationists, and protecting our water resources while maintaining a strong domestic food supply requires practical, science-based, forward-thinking leadership from our Office of Agricultural Water Policy – and that’s exactly what Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward bring to the team.”
     Ferris has served in several leadership roles within the department and most recently served as staff director for the Office of Agricultural Water Policy. During her tenure, she provided leadership for statewide agricultural and water quality initiatives, oversaw the development and implementation of the new Agricultural Regional Projects Program, and led strategic planning efforts to strengthen the office's operations and long-term impact. Ferris holds a Master of Public Administration and a bachelor's degree from Florida State University, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), a Florida Certified Contract Manager, and a graduate of the University of Florida's Natural Resources Leadership Institute.
     Seward will continue serving as assistant director of the Office of Agricultural Water Policy, where she oversees the Policy, Planning and Coordination Bureau, Budget Section, and Contracts Section. She will continue helping lead the division's implementation of agricultural Best Management Practices, BMP cost-share programs, water quality planning, rulemaking, legislative analysis, budgeting, procurement, and strategic operations. Before joining FDACS, Megan served in senior positions at Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the Northwest Florida Water Management District, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
     The FDACS Office of Agricultural Water Policy (https://www.fdacs.gov/divisions-offices/agricultural-water-policy) works closely with Florida's agricultural producers, commodity organizations, water management districts, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, UF/IFAS, and other partners to develop and implement agricultural Best Management Practices that protect water quality and conserve water resources. Agricultural BMPs are practical, cost-effective actions that agricultural producers can take to conserve water and reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste, and other pollutants entering our water resources. Through voluntary, science-based conservation programs, the division helps producers improve water quality while ensuring Florida agriculture remains strong, productive and sustainable for future generations.
 

Book arrives and journalist is surprised
USPS inspects
media mail without warrant
By Jeff M. Hardison © July 27, 2026 at 11 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     UNITED STATES – “MEDIA MAIL SUBJECT TO INSPECTION,” the front of the package noted in red ink and capital letters.
     A member of the media saw those words stamped on a package sent to him that held an autographed dated book from an author who had sent it to the journalist. It made the member of the press wonder about the sanctity of the press and of the people to be free from the government practicing unwarranted searches.
     The American right to be free from unwarranted search is protected by The Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which prohibits unreasonable searches, requires probable cause, and mandates specific warrants.
      Media mail is completely open to postal inspection, according to federal postal regulations. Apparently, case law has established this federal rule passed the test of being constitutional.
     Unlike First-Class or Priority Mail, Media Mail is not legally sealed against postal checks, meaning postal workers can open and look inside a “Media Mail” package at any time without a search warrant, according to federal law.
     These “inspections” happen because postal workers must make sure the person sending something is sending only the specific items allowed at the reduced rate -- like books, CDs, DVDs, and educational materials.
     The United States Postal Service (USPS) checks parcels to stop people from shipping clothes, shoes, or regular goods using the less expensive Media Mail rates. Other items that cannot be sent 
     The USPS does not allow people to mail dangerous or illegal items like ammunition, explosives, and marijuana. For a complete official tool to check specific goods, visit the USPS Shipping Restrictions page.
     Media Mail items cannot contain commercial advertising or comic books.
     If a USPS Postal Inspector’s Office employee finds illegal items, the post office can charge the receiver extra money (sending it postage due) or charge the sender.
     The higher rates may be up to a more expensive shipping class like Priority Mail.
     Another issue from a person who tries to send something that is not “media” via the Media Mail method may see a delay, or the shipment can be returned to sender.
     “I was happy to see the book that was sent to me arrived within one day after the author mailed it,” award-winning journalist Jeff M. Hardison said. “I’m glad that even though I am a member of the media, the United States Postal Service does not consider all of my mail as being media mail. If that was the case, then I would know I must send an email to our leaders in Washington, D.C. Some people may understand my taking pause when I saw those red letters printed on the package. That was a first for me.”

Proposals sought for
working waterfronts grants
Submissions accepted Aug. 3-17
Information Provided By FDEP
Published July 25, 2026 at 7 a.m.
     TALLAHASSEE -- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) will begin accepting project proposals for the Stan Mayfield Working Waterfronts Capital Outlay Grant Program through Florida Communities Trust at 8 a.m. EDT on Aug. 3.     Completed applications must be submitted through FDEP’s Grants Portal by 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on Aug. 17. 
A pre-recording of the Stan Mayfield Working Waterfronts Capital Outlay Grant Program Webinar Series will become available at 8 a.m. EDT on July 30. 
     The Stan Mayfield Working Waterfronts Capital Outlay Grant Program supports Florida’s commercial fishing and marine aquaculture industries by funding infrastructure for seafood harvesting, processing and distribution. Eligible applicants include marine aquaculture facilities and holders of commercial saltwater products, wholesale dealer or retailer licenses, as well as seafood houses. Applicants must demonstrate a benefit to the local economy.
     Please note, any information submitted to FDEP will become a public record, subject to disclosure in accordance with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, and Article 1, § 24 of the Florida Constitution. Submittal of a project proposal does not create an agreement, nor does it guarantee funding.
     The Florida Communities Trust is governed by a five-member board with the Secretary of FDEP or their designee serving as chair. The board includes four members appointed by the governor, which includes a former elected official of a metropolitan municipal government, a former elected official of a county government, a representative of a nonprofit organization that has among its principal goals the conservation of natural resources or protection of the environment, and a representative of the development industry. 

Florida sales tax holidays planned
Back-to-School - July 20 Aug. 20
Hunting, Fishing,
and Camping - Sept. 1 - Dec. 31

By Jeff M. Hardison © July 4, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Revenue (FDOR) recently sent media information that shoppers may want to use to buy school supplies, and/or Hunting, Fishing, and Camping.
     People who want to see no sales tax on certain items that are school supplies will want to buy them between July 20 and Aug. 20.
     People who want to see no sales tax on certain items that are for hunting, fishing and camping will want to buy them between Sept. 20 and Dec. 31, according to information from the FDOR.
     The Florida’s 2026 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins on Monday, July 20, and ends on Thursday, Aug. 20, the FDOR noted.
     During the annual sales tax holiday period, tax is not due on the retail sales of: 
     ● Clothing, footwear, wallets, bags, handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, and diaper bags with a sales price of $100 or less per item; 
     ● Certain school supplies with a sales price of $50 or less per item; 
     ● Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles with a sales price of $30 or less; and 
     ● Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories with a sales price of $1,500 or less, when purchased for non-commercial home or personal use. 
Learning Aids and Jigsaw Puzzles 
     No sales tax is due on the sale or purchase of any learning aid or jigsaw puzzle with a sales price of $30 or less. This exemption does not apply to sales of learning aids or jigsaw puzzles within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or an airport. 
     “Learning aids” means flashcards or other learning cards, matching or other memory games, puzzle books and search-and-find books, interactive or electronic books and toys intended to teach reading or math skills, and stacking or nesting blocks or sets.
School Supply Items
     No sales tax is due on the sale or purchase of any school supply item with a sales price of $50 or less per item. This exemption does not apply to sales of school supplies within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or an airport. 
     “School supplies” means pens, pencils, erasers, crayons, notebooks, notebook filler paper, legal pads, binders, lunch boxes, construction paper, markers, folders, poster board, composition books, poster paper, scissors, cellophane tape, glue, paste, rulers, computer disks, staplers and staples (used to secure paper products), protractors and compasses (the kind for math, not for map directions).
Computers and Computer-Related Accessories 
     Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories may qualify for the exemption. The exemption applies to an eligible item with a sales price of $1,500 or less, when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use. This exemption does not apply to sales of personal computers or computer-related accessories for use in a trade or business, or to sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or an airport. 
     “Personal computers” includes electronic book readers, calculators, laptops, desktops, handheld devices, tablets, or tower computers. The term does not include cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital 
media receivers, or devices that are not primarily designed to process data. 
     “Personal computer-related accessories” includes keyboards, mice (mouse devices), personal digital assistants, monitors without a television tuner, other peripheral devices, modems, routers, and nonrecreational software, regardless of whether the accessories are used in association with a personal computer base unit. Computer-related accessories do not include furniture or systems, devices, software, 
monitors with a television tuner, or peripherals that are designed or intended primarily for recreational use.
Clothing and Accessory Items
     No sales tax is due on the sale or purchase of any article of clothing, wallet, or bag, including handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, and diaper bags, but excluding briefcases, suitcases, and other garment bags, with a sales price of $100 or less per item. (The list is not all-inclusive.) 
     “Clothing” means any article of wearing apparel, including all footwear (except skis, swim fins, roller blades, and skates), intended to be worn on or about the human body. Clothing does not include watches, watchbands, jewelry, umbrellas, or handkerchiefs. 
     This exemption does not apply to sales of clothing, wallets, or bags within a theme park, entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or airport.
The annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday does NOT apply to: 
     ● Briefcases, suitcases, or garment bags;
     ● Watches, watchbands, jewelry, umbrellas, and handkerchiefs; 
     ● Skis, swim fins, roller blades, and skates;
     ● Clothing items with a sales price of more than $100; 
     ● Any school supply item with a sales price of more than $50;
     ● Books that are not otherwise exempt;
     ● Computers and computer-related accessories with a sales price of more than $1,500; 
     ● Cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital media receivers, or devices that are not primarily designed to process data; 
     ● Computers and computer-related accessories purchased for commercial purposes; 
     ● Rentals of any eligible items; 
     ● Repairs or alterations of any eligible items; and 
     ● Sales of any eligible items within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or an airport.
     To see the entire Tax Information Publication for the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, click HERE.
Hunting, Fishing, and Camping - Sept. 1 - Dec. 31
During the tax holiday, sales tax is not due on the retail sale of: 
Hunting supplies: 
Ammunition {as defined Florida Statute 790.001(1)} 
     Firearms, including: 
     ● Any weapon designed to expel a projectile by an explosive 
     ● Pistols, rifles, and shotguns 
     ● Firearm accessories
Bows and crossbows 
     Bow and crossbow accessories, including: 
     ● Arrows 
     ● Bolts 
     ● Quarrels 
     ● Quivers 
     ● Releases 
     ● Sights or optics 
     ● Wristguards 
Camping and fishing supplies, including: 
     ● Bait and fishing tackle priced at $10 or less (or $20 or less when sold as a set);
     ● Flashlights, camping lanterns, tackle boxes, or tackle bags priced at $30 or less; 
     ● Camping stoves, collapsible chairs, portable hammocks, and sleeping bags priced at $50 or less; 
     ● Rods and reels priced at $75 or less, or $150 or less if sold as a set; and 
     ● Tents priced at $200 or less. 
     For a complete list of the Hunting, Fishing, and Camping Sales Tax Holiday qualifying items, click HERE.

Williston worker’s accomplishments
publicly recognized
Interim city manager evolution continues

Katherine VanZant of the Florida Rural Water Association speaks about Joshua Fordham and Jim Mutz before presenting them with framed certificates.

Story and Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © July 23, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     WILLISTON – The Tuesday night (July 21) regular twice-monthly meeting of the Williston City Council included recognition for a city employee’s significant accomplishment, a hint of some hotel developer perhaps considering the city as a location and the ongoing evolution of the process to bring an interim city manager into action to help relive the overworked City Clerk and Interim City Manager Latricia Wright.
     Also, the police chief announced the retirement of a longtime officer as well as the announcement of an incoming officer, and Mayor Charles Goodman announced the planned retirement of Williston Fire Chief Lamar Stegall as of Dec. 31.
     Katherine VanZant, is a professional engineer and the lead service line apprenticeship coordinator for the Florida Rural Water Association (FRWA), presented two certificates at the July 21 meeting.
     Joshua Fordham accepted a framed certificate from the Florida Department of Education, Office of Apprenticeship, on behalf of the United States Department of Labor, certifying his completion of apprenticeship as a wastewater systems operator under the FRWA.
     Jim Mutz accepted a framed certificate of appreciation from the FRWA.


(from left) Licensed and certified journeyman in wastewater treatment operations, Joshua Fordham, a Williston city employee, Katherine VanZant of the FRWA, and Jim Mutz, the mentor who helped Fordham earn the license through a two-year apprenticeship program, are seen on July 21 in Williston City Hall at the Williston City Council meeting.

     As VanZant opened her speech about the certificates to be presented at the Williston City Council meeting, she said the FRWA is a non-profit organization that helps municipalities with water and wastewater operations. The FRWA provides to municipalities, for free, “field riders” who have decades of experience who visit utility plants.
     The FRWA helps municipal leaders to locate funding sources for utility improvements, for free.
     “We are the leaders when you have a hurricane coming through,” VanZant said.
     The FRWA assists water and wastewater utilities operators before, during and after hurricanes. They coordinate mutual aid, stage emergency equipment (like generators and pumps) near impacted areas, and deploy staff to help restore power and essential services to damaged communities.
     She added that the FRWA helps train staff members in municipal water and wastewater treatment operations.
     The FRWA Apprenticeship program is registered with the United States Department of Labor and the Florida Department of Education.
     This is the only apprenticeship program in Florida for wastewater treatment plant operators, she said, adding that individuals who complete the program are “nationally recognized journeymen.” 
     Fordham did “an exemplary job” during the two-year program, VanZant said. 
     “He even was deployed while he was doing the apprenticeship,” VanZant said. “So, he lost that time – came back – and made up that time.”
     Now the City of Williston, VanZant said, has a licensed operator on staff – which previously had to be brought in from another place.
     To complete the apprenticeship, VanZant said, Fordham was required to have a mentor.
     Mutz provided mentorship for technical information needed at the wastewater treatment plant for Williston, she said, as Fordham completed the two-year program.
     The certificate for Mutz noted the FRWA appreciates his contribution as a mentor in the FRWA apprenticeship program, “… improving operational knowledge of wastewater utilities by providing thoughtful supervision and coaching to future leaders in the wastewater utilities field.”
     VanZant said that thanks to Mutz, the City of Williston now has, on staff, a “current leader in the wastewater utilities field” with Fordham being a journeyman.
Interim city manager evolution continues
     Also at this meeting, the City Council moved forward with what is required for some relief to be given to City Clerk Wright who has had to serve as interim city manager as well as city clerk for more than four months now, due to a 3-2 relatively impromptu firing of the previous city manager.

Former Baker County Court judge
appointed as Eighth Circuit Court judge

By Jeff M. Hardison © July 22, 2026 at 7:45 p.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     TALLAHASSEE – A woman who is currently a Third Judicial Circuit Court assistant state attorney, and who previously has served as a Baker County Court judge, has been appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis as a judge on the Eighth Judicial Circuit, according to information in a press release sent July 22 at 5 p.m. about several judicial appointments noted by the Governor’s Press Office.
     Lorelie Papel Brannan, 44, of Macclenny (Baker County) was appointed by DeSantis, to serve as a circuit court judge on the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court, according to the press release and other sources.
     The Third Judicial Circuit includes Columbia, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee and Taylor counties.
     The Eighth Judicial Circuit includes Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties
     Brannan had served as the Baker County Court judge since she was appointed by DeSantis on May 9, 2022, officially taking the bench on May 21, 2022, according to records.
     In 2022, DeSantis appointed her to be the Baker County Court judge to fill the judicial vacancy created by the retirement of former Baker County Court Judge Joseph M. Williams, according to records.
     This was a historic milestone for Baker County when she was sworn in during her investiture on Oct. 21, 2022, because that is when Brannan became the first female county court judge in Baker County history.
     Brannan later ran to be elected as Baker County Court judge; however, Julie Crews Johnson won the August 2024 judicial election, according to records. Judge Crews Johnson then became the first elected female Baker County Court judge, according to records.
     Brannan has served as an assistant state attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit since 2025. Brannan earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her juris doctor from Loyola University New Orleans School of Law in 2007, according to records. Brannan fills the judicial vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Robert K. Groeb. Judge Groeb resigned in April in anticipation of his retirement, according to records. The Eighth Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission began accepting applications to fill his impending vacancy on April 7, according to records.
     Circuit court judges in Florida are elected to serve six-year terms, according to law. 
     Since Brannan was appointed by DeSantis to replace Judge Groeb, according to law, if she wants to run in the next general election for that bench, it will occur at least one year after her appointment. Since Judge Groeb's resignation occurred in the spring of 2026, the temporary appointee will bypass the 2026 and 2027 election cycles and serve until January of the year following the 2028 election, according to law.
     In Florida, far more judges have been appointed than elected since DeSantis took office. Under Florida law, when judges retire or resign mid-term, the governor appoints a replacement. By proactively filling newly created judgeships and selecting successors for retiring judges -- this sometimes prompts the cancellation of local elections.     
     As of mid-2026, DeSantis has made in excess of 200 judicial appointments to the state's courts. Those 200-plus appointments include trial and appellate court benches, as well as six of the seven justices currently sitting on the Florida Supreme Court.
     Even though Brannan is working as a prosecutor in a circuit and county (Columbia County) other than one that includes her county of residence (Baker County), she will not have to move because her Baker County residence is one of the six counties in the Florida Eighth Judicial Circuit. As a resident of Baker County appointed as an Eighth Judicial Circuit judge, she satisfies the constitutional requirement to live within the territorial jurisdiction of that court.
     To be a Florida circuit court judge, a person must be a registered voter and a resident within the territorial jurisdiction of the court, as well as having been a member in good standing of The Florida Bar for the preceding five years. As well as living in Baker County and being a registered voter there, Brannan was admitted into The Florida Bar on Sept. 28, 2007, and has been a member in good standing for far more than just the preceding five years, according to records.
 

CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion
welcomes new directors,
bids farewell to long-time board members
By Laura Byrnes, APR, CPRC, FCWP
Director of Communications
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion
Published July 21, 2026 at 3 p.m.
     OCALA – Arno Proctor, vice president of finance for ANCORP in Williston (Levy County), has been named chairman of CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion’s board of directors, taking over the role from Carl Flanagan, a Citrus County business and financial services representative whose term ended June 30.
     Proctor joined the board in 2021 and has been a member of the Career Center committee. His two-year term as Board Chair officially began July 1.
     During the board’s quarterly meeting on June 10, Proctor said his predecessor’s leadership over the past two years has been “invaluable, providing vision and steady guidance.”
     For his part, Flanagan said, “There is a compassionate team here that is second to none ... I just applaud them for all they’ve done.
      “I find it a privilege to have served you as your chair these last few years and I know Arno is going to take it and excel.”
     CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is a business-led, not-for-profit dedicated to building a robust workforce development system that helps drive the success of businesses and individuals alike. All services are provided at no charge.
     The Board of Directors is made up of key business leaders and educational and community partners.
     The board’s new Vice Chair is Al Jones, talent acquisition specialist for AutoZone, who has served since 2021 representing Citrus County private sector and has most recently chaired the Marketing and Outreach committee. Frederick Morgan, who is returning as Treasurer, joined the board in 2008 as regional labor representative for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 222; he also serves on the Performance and Monitoring committee.
     CareerSource CLM also welcomes four new members to the board:
     ● April Brown, vice president of human resources and corporate services for SECO Energy (Sumter Electric Cooperative). She is also co-founder and director of Ocala Elite Breed, a youth basketball development program based in Ocala. Brown is serving a six-year term.
     ● Kelly Ellis, a fourth-generation Citrus Countian, is CEO/owner of Triton Construction LLC in Hernando as well as board member and past chair of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce. Ellis is serving four years.
     ● Kent Guinn, director of government affairs for Douglas Law Firm and former Ocala City Mayor. Guinn served 12 years as mayor from 2011-2023 and before that spent 12 years on the Ocala City Council. Guinn’s term is four years.
     ● Matt McCormick, president and CEO of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP). He has 25 years of experience in the chamber industry, including with the U.S. Chamber and currently serves on its Accreditation Board and Committee of 100. McCormick is serving a four-year term.
     At the same time, the board also bid farewell to several long-time members whose service ended June 30.
     Proctor noted that “each of these individuals has generously given their time, expertise, and leadership to strengthen this organization and advance our mission. Their dedication has made a lasting impact, and we are truly better because of their service.”
     The following members rolled off the board:
     ● Carl Flanagan, representing Citrus County, has served since 2021 and most recently as Board Chair from 2024-2026. Carl is a business and financial services registered representative for PRIMERICA. He chaired the board’s Executive Committee and also stepped in to chair the Marketing and Outreach committee.
     ● Kevin Cunningham, owner/broker of Re/Max Realty One in Lecanto and Crystal River, was instrumental in creation of the workforce development region in the mid-1990s and served as its second board chairman from 1997-1998 and, after a 10-year hiatus, returned to the board in 2011 and served again as board chair from 2014-2016. He also served on the board’s Business and Economic Development committee. Cunningham was lauded by Proctor for “providing steady leadership and helping shape the direction and strength of this organization.”
     ● Darlene Goddard, an HR and financial consultant, joined the board in 2008 representing the Marion County private sector and served as chair from 2012-2014 during economically treacherous times. Following her term as chair, Goddard continued to serve an active role both on the board and as a member of the Outreach and Marketing Committee. In recognizing her contributions, Proctor said “her thoughtful leadership and dedication helped guide the board through important years of growth and progress.”
     ● Charles Harris, CEO of the Central Florida Community Action Agency, had served on the board since 2018, contributing in many ways including, as Proctor noted, “his years of leadership as a dedicated Career Center committee chair; his work behind the scenes has been vital to the success of this board.”
     ● Kathy Judkins, Vice President of Communications, Community and Member Experience at SECO Energy, joined the board in 2015, almost immediately taking on the role as Vice Chair and served as board chair from 2016 to 2018. She was also a member of the Marketing and Outreach committee. “Kathy’s leadership and continued commitment have helped build a strong foundation for the work we do today,” Proctor said.
     All CareerSource CLM board and committee meetings are open to the public. For information about upcoming meetings, visit https://careersourceclm.com/about-us.

Levy County veterans
continue seeing help

Levy County Community Services Coordinator Katie Holder is ready, willing and able to help veterans, dependents and survivors. She is seen here at her desk in the Levy County Government Center in Bronson.

Information and Photo Provided
Published July 17, 2026 at 4 p.m.
     BRONSON – Veterans in Levy County are continuing to see help even during a transition of staff members providing that service, as noted in information provided when requested by the daily news website.
     Levy County Community Services Coordinator in the Veteran Services & Housing Department of the Levy County Board of County Commissioners has been officially accredited by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as of July 1. She received her Personal Identity Verification card on July 16. With both of these requirements now complete, Holder is fully authorized and ready to assist the veterans, dependents and survivors of Levy County with any and all VA benefits and claims.
     “Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,” she noted in a recent email she sent after being requested for this information. “Appointments are preferred but not necessary.”
     Holder noted that by individuals making appointments, that cuts down on wait time and ensure that she is in the office and available.
     For Levy County veterans, dependents and survivors who want to contact Holder, please note the following contact information:
Katie Holder, Community Services Coordinator, CVSO
Office Phone: 352-914-7192
Email: holder-katie@levycounty.org
Physical Address: 310 School St., Suite 107, Bronson, FL 32621