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Bronson ramps up for July 4 event
Vendors, performers and others
invited to free celebration
By Bronson Town Manager Sue Beaudet
Published June 8, 2023 at 8 p.m.
BRONSON -- The Bronson Town Council announced the return of the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration.
The goal is to make this a family-friendly community event. The Town of Bronson would extends an invitation to all churches, youth groups, businesses, and non-profit organizations to create an activity booth (of your choosing).
“We would like to have activities for attendees to pass the time as we await the spectacular fireworks display,” Bronson Town Manager Sue Beaudet noted. “There is no cost to your group, and all family-friendly activities are welcome!
“We would also like to extend the invitation for individuals or groups who would like to share their talents with the crowd to perform,” Beaudet added.
The festivities will begin in the James H. Cobb Park, 220 Picnic St., at 7 p.m. on July 4, with the fireworks tentatively scheduled for 9 p.m.
Anyone who is interested in participating, is asked to please contact Town Manager Sue Beaudet via telephone at 352.486.2354 or via email at townmanager@townofbronson.org.
Interested parties may also contact Bronson Town Councilor Sherrie Schuler via email at sherrieschuler@townofbronson.org.
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Cardboard boat race set
for Aug. 5 as part of Vet Fest 2023
By Jeff M. Hardison © June 7, 2023 at 11:15 a.m.
GILCHRIST COUNTY – The Inaugural Annual Ship Regatta Cardboard Boat Race for the Seventh Annual Vet Fest at Otter Springs Park and Campground is set to be part of Vet Fest 2023 on Aug. 5, according to information provided by Lesley Hersey of Lutheran Services Florida.
Gilchrist Prevention Coalition Executive Director Robert Wells is onboard with the big venture, which the Gilchrist Prevention Coalition is hosting at Otter Springs Park and Campground 6470 S.W. 80th Ave., Trenton.
Otter Springs Park and Campground is the home of the Camp Valor Project, a venture by ForVets to help veterans.
“Camp Valor is a much needed program and will serve to create a well-defined path to a rich, well deserved, bright future for these brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for their country,” ForVets Inc. President Dan Cavanah has said.
To read more about Camp Valor, click HERE.
All local businesses, organizations, civic groups and churches are invited to register their teams today for this Cardboard Boat Race!
Boat line up at 10:30 a.m. Judges inspection is at 11 a.m. Race is at 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 5.
There are extensive rules to make the boats and to participate in the race.
The awards are listed below.
● The Admiral’s Cup: Fastest Boat to run the course, based on your time from your heats.
● The Commodore’s Cup: Second fastest boat to run the course, based on your time from your heats.
● The Most Creative Award: Judges’ choice on design and artistic elements.
● The Most Team Spirit Award: Judges’ choice based on teams’ support of their entry’s theme.
● The Titanic Award: Judges’ choice given to the most spectacular sinking.
Find the complete list of rules and register for the race by clicking HERE.
For more information, send an email to lesleyjordanhersey@gmail.com or 352-356-0861 (call or text), or call Gilchrist Prevention Coalition Executive Director Robert Wells at 352-359-0396.
June’s full Moon reflects on The Ink Pad
Journalist reflects on the full Moon
The full Moon of June 3 is photographed at the best of all possible times from The Ink Pad.
Photo and Reflections
By Jeff M. Hardison © June 4, 2023 at 11 a.m.
JEMLANDS – With crickets chirping, raccoons and rabbits frolicking and hopping respectively, and all of the other activity of various animals happening Saturday night (June 3), a roving reporter sauntered outdoors to capture an image of the full Moon of June 2023.
He went outside of The Ink Pad, which is located in the unrecorded subdivision known as Jemlands in the unincorporated part of Levy County about three miles west of State Road 345 and on the south side of Levy County Road 347 between CR 347 on the north, 97th Court on the east, 100th Avenue on the west and the certain footage south of 55th Street on the south.
The full Moon was June 3, appearing opposite the Sun in Earth-based longitude just before midnight at 11:42 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, according to various astronomical sources.
As noted in The Old Farmer’s Almanac, and as mentioned by commentators at On Patrol Live, a TV show on the Reelz Network, the full Moon of June is known as the Strawberry Moon.
Reelz is an American digital cable and satellite television network owned by Hubbard Broadcasting (Channel 238 on DirecTV. DirecTV is an American multichannel video programming distributor based in El Segundo, California.)
Traditional full Moon names used by The Old Farmer’s Almanac come from a number of places, including Native American, Colonial American and European sources, the publication notes on its website. Historically, names for the full or new Moons were used to track the seasons, the writers at The Old Farmer’s Almanac noted.
June’s full Moon, the last full Moon of spring or the first of summer, has been called the Strawberry Moon.
“The June full Moon got the name “Strawberry Moon” from a number of North American native tribes, since the wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) reaches peak ripeness and is ready for harvesting in June,” according to researchers and writers for The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The strawberry is widespread throughout the lower 48 states, Canada, and Alaska.
The name “Strawberry Moon” was given to the June full Moon by the Algonquin, Ojibwe, Dakota, Lakota, Chippewa, Oneida, and Sioux tribes, The Old Farmer’s Almanac notes.
Strawberries thrive in the Sunshine State in the winter months. According to a farmer in Hillsborough County, strawberries are in peak season from February through March.
Although individuals can pick strawberries in Florida from November to April, the best months to do so are December and January, according to some sources.
As for the appearance of the color of the Moon, it is not strawberry-colored in June. The perception of the Moon’s color is affected by the refraction of light through smoke, particles of dust or the angle of the Moon’s reflecting of sunlight through more of the atmosphere between the viewer and the biggest satellite of planet Earth.
Another aspect of color perception is the individual. A person looking through rose-colored glasses at the full Moon of June, for instance, may see it to have a strawberry tint. However, there is a general consensus by most humans in regard to colors at least to some degree.
By the way, as a reminder for people who do not already know, the Moon does not create light. The light seen from the Moon originates from the Sun. The Moon appears to be full when there is the least amount of shadow from the Earth for the Earth-based viewer to perceive at that point in time when they see it.
As for the roving reporter who meandered outside, he was reminded by his loving wife to try to keep insects from entering the residence as he went in and out seeking late night Moon pictures.
The photographer succeeded in meeting the goal of keeping insects outside, as well as taking some Moon shots at the best of all possible times from the best of all possible places, given all things considered for his spot in the whole space-time continuum of existence, and his perception of reality.
“I live in the best of all possible worlds in the best of all possible times,” Jeff M. Hardison throught on the night of June 3.
The photographer in this thought, which lasted a millisecond and was among his many thoughts, made casual reference to a book he read in high school, Candide or Optimism (1759), which is a philosophical tale written by Voltaire.
Voltaire, is the pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet (Nov. 21, 1694-May 30, 1778). Hardison said as a writer, he does not remember ever using a nom de plume like Voltaire, although he may have completed some amount of research candidly.
In Voltaire’s story, Candide is the illegitimate nephew of a German baron. He grows up in the baron's castle under the tutelage of the scholar Pangloss, who teaches him that this world is “the best of all possible worlds.” Candide falls in love with the baron's young daughter, Cunégonde. The book includes much more.
Voltaire may have been poking fun at the philosophy of the early modern philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (1646–1716), and a thesis that the existing world is the best world that God could have created.
As for Hardison, who is known to be happy to varying degrees relative to his definition of happiness, and occasionally reminding some people of the King James Version of Psalm 118:24, which notes “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it,” he notes being glad is part of being happy.
Hardison reflected that -- “I'm so glad; I'm so glad; I'm glad, I'm glad, I'm glad,” as he recited some of the lyrics of the song I'm So Glad.
This was the ninth song on the album Fresh Cream by the band Cream (1966).
Cream was a three-member British rock band formed in London in 1966. The group consisted of bassist Jack Bruce, guitarist Eric Clapton and drummer Ginger Baker.
Hardison said he also likes the Deep Purple version of I’m So Glad from the album Shades of Deep Purple (1968).
Formed in March 1968, the group Deep Purple originally included vocalist Rod Evans, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, bassist Nick Simper, keyboardist Jon Lord and drummer Ian Paice (“Mark I”). Evans and Simper were soon replaced by Ian Gillan and Roger Glover (“Mark II”).
I'm So Glad is a Delta blues-style song originally recorded by American musician Nehemiah Curtis "Skip" James (June 9, 1902-Oct. 3, 1969) in 1931.
Meanwhile, Hardison, an intrepid, illustrious and prolific multiple award-winning writer, editor and publisher, noted the Earth is not flat, and contrails are just water vapor, as he reflected on the Sun’s light being reflected to the Earth and especially as seen and photographed by him from The Ink Pad.
“I could go on,” he said, “but sometimes I think I may write too long of a story. It was a full moon. It was fun to see from The Ink Pad.”
Nature Video
Bunnies, Raccoons And A Wasp
This one minute video of seven clips of bunnies, raccoons and a wasp is entertaining. The audio is cool, too. The raccoons are the stars and the wasp does a cameo fly by. This video captures some of the nature films recorded on stealth cameras at The Ink Pad in May of 2023, including where one of the two raccoons adjusts the camera. The Ink Pad is located in the unrecorded subdivision known as Jemlands in Levy County, just off of Levy County Road 347 about three or four miles west of State Road 345. The Ink Pad is the home of HardisonInk.com, a daily news website that started on Feb. 1, 2011 by Jeff M. Hardison, a multiple award winning journalist who has served as the editor of the daily newspaper in Englewood, and as an editor and reporter in newspapers all over Florida since 1972, when he started as editorial editor of the school newspaper in his hometown of St. Petersburg at Northeast High School, where he also served as poetry editor of the literary edition.
Click on the PHOTO to see the video.
Video By Jeff M. Hardison © May 29, 2023 at 7 a.m.
All Rights Reserved
Boots and Bouquets fundraiser
scheduled for Aug. 19
Event to help foster children
in North Central Florida
By Jeff M. Hardison © April 20, 2023 at 1:45 p.m.
GAINESVILLE – A fundraiser set to be in Dixie County promises to be part of the revenue-generator for homes to help foster and adoptive families in need. Scheduled to be at the Camp Anderson Pavilion, 536 NE 168th Ave., Old Town. From 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Aug. 19, the Boots and Bouquets fundraiser will help the Friends of Children of North Central Florida, which is a Christ-centered support organization for foster, adoptive and families in need.
Since 2005, Friends of Children of North Central Florida (FOC) has been raising funds to support foster parents and children in foster care. FOC has built four foster family homes enabling foster families to help more children, keep siblings together and assist teens in placement.
FOC provides support to our area foster families by encouraging them daily and giving support and care for children in the foster care system.
Now, through the Brave Moms program, FOC is taking action to help struggling moms care for their children with the hope that foster care placement can be avoided.
The North Central Florida population is growing, and the need for social services, specific to foster care, foster families and struggling single moms and children, continues to grow as well.
The goal of the Boots and Bouquets fundraiser is to support fostering and in-need families in Dixie County, Levy County and Gilchrist County – the Tri-County Area.
Donors for this event are sought as table sponsors. Individual tickets may be sold at a later date after table sponsors.
The three levels of table sponsorship are – Presenting Sponsor, with a donation of $7,000 to $10,000; Diamond Sponsor, with a donation of $2,500; and Gold Sponsor, with a donation of $1,000.
Here is what is given from these levels of sponsorship (beyond helping the effort for families):
● Presenting Sponsor
- Naming Opportunity – Silent and live auctions bear the sponsor’s name for the event.
- Tables and Seats – Two reserved tables with eight seats at each table at the event with the sponsor’s name prominently displayed.
- Promotional Materials – The sponsor’s name and logo will be placed on event materials, on email messages to recipients, on the FOC newsletter and event signage. The sponsor’s name will be posted on the FOC webpage for a year identified as a Presenting Level Sponsor.
- Program Book – Prominent two full page ads in the event program book.
- Event Recognition – Verbal recognition by the Master of Ceremonies at the event, and the opportunity to speak at the event as part of the program.
- Engraved sponsor appreciation plaque.
● Diamond Level Sponsor
- Table and Seats – One reserved table with eight seats at the event with the sponsor’s name prominently displayed.
- Promotional Materials – The sponsor’s name and logo will be placed on event materials, on email messages to recipients, on the FOC newsletter and event signage. The sponsor’s name will be posted on the FOC webpage for a year identified as a Diamond Level Sponsor.
- Program Book – Prominent one full page ad in the event program book.
- Event Recognition – Verbal recognition by the Master of Ceremonies at the event.
- Engraved sponsor appreciation plaque.
● Gold Level Sponsor
- Table and Seats – One reserved table with eight seats at the event with the sponsor’s name prominently displayed.
- Promotional Materials – The sponsor’s name and logo will be placed on event materials, on email messages to recipients, on the FOC newsletter and event signage. The sponsor’s name will be posted on the FOC webpage for a year identified as a Gold Level Sponsor.
- Program Book – Prominent one full page ad in the event program book.
- Engraved sponsor appreciation plaque.
To participate as a table sponsor at any of the three levels, send a check to Friends of Children of North Central Florida Inc., P.O. Box 358502, Gainesville, FL 32635-8502. In the comment section of the check, not “Boots and Bouquets” or “B&B.”
The FOC Board of Directors volunteer their time and talents to offer this Christ-centered support.
The FOC Board of Directors is comprised of President Denny George of Trenton; Vice President Bobby Davis of Worthington Springs; and board members Gina Dickey of Ocala, Gary Hunter of Chiefland; Donna Jordan of Melrose and Ron Locke of
Gainesville.
Wednesday’s Workers
Inglis Water Clerk Rachel Nordstrom (left) and Inglis Clerk Cery Logeman are among the Inglis city workers who help the residents and visitors of this southern Levy County municipality. Seen here Wednesday morning (May 10), they agreed to be pulled away from their duties for a few minutes to provide a photo opportunity. They are working in Inglis Town Hall, which is in the Dewey D. Allen (Dec. 6, 1898- Sept. 20, 1986) Building. Allen was the mayor of Inglis in the 1960s.
Town Hall Marker
Between the sidewalk and the Follow That Dream Parkway (Levy County Road 40 West) in Inglis, this cheerful sign welcomes residents and visitors. Just west of this landmark, there is the Inglis Fire Station and then the Withlacoochee Gulf Area Chamber of Commerce, which is next to the Inglis office for Central Florida Electric Cooperative. The Withlacoochee Gulf Area, Yankeetown and Inglis, shares its name with the Withlacoochee River, which is one of Florida’s Outstanding Waterways.
Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © May 10, 2023 at 7:45 p.m.
All Rights Reserved
Publisher’s Note: All events are listed chronologically. Please email announcements to hardisonink@gmail.com. Please look ahead on the Calendar and RSVP if the organizer requests that. Please check daily. Things change. If you do not see a notice that was sent, please send it again. Include a name and address when submitting events, so that we can confirm them and so people can contact the sender for more information. TO SUBMIT AN EVENT, PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO hardisonink@gmail.com. Please include the date, time and place. Please note if it is free and open to the public. Please note if reservations are required. If a person or group has an event, please send the information to hardisonink@gmail.com and it will be listed, and attention will be drawn to it. Please remember that given there can be communication and meetings via webinars, telephone, Skype, Zoom, etc., if those meetings are scheduled, then they can be listed here too.
June 12, Monday through June 23, Friday
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 N.E. 200th Ave., Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at 850-598-5128 or click HERE.
June 14, Wednesday
Flag Day
9 a.m. – Levy County Flag Day Ceremony is set to be at the Levy County Government Center, 310 School St., in Bronson. The Board of Levy County Commissioners would like to invite veterans, active-duty military, and the public to attend. There will be a flag-retiring ceremony, too. Everyone is invited for this program on this special day for Levy County and the United States of America.
July 15, Thursday
3 p.m. – The Nature Coast Business (Levy County) Development Council is scheduled to meet, unless otherwise noticed, in the Drummond Bank Conference Room of the Jack Wilkinson, Levy (County) Campus of The College of Central Florida, located at 15390 N.W. U.S. Highway 19, Chiefland, south of the City of Fanning Springs on the western side of the highway. The Nature Coast Business Development Council Inc. is a Levy County organization to help improve the economy in Levy County. These meetings are open to the public. Any members of the public wishing to bring any matters before the board may do so by contacting NCBDC Executive Director Scott Osteen via email at director@naturecoast.org. The NCBDC is an entity that evolved from an original group formed in 1985, which was, is and is planned to be committed to fostering economic prosperity and the highest quality of life in the communities it serves, which are in Levy County. If a person is unable to attend in person, and they want to see how well the phone connection works for this meeting, the conference call line is 352-291-4494.
June 19, Monday
Juneteenth
12-5 p.m. – Community Juneteenth Celebration at Williston Heritage Park, 100 block of N. Main St., Williston. Cultural Exhibits, Health and Wellness Presentations, Educational Information, Activities for Children, Vendor Booths, Live Entertainment and Food! Free Admission and Parking! Bring your favorite chair! Coordinated by the MLK Committee-Williston Inc., local churches and other organizations.
June 20, Tuesday
10 a.m. – Poll Worker Orientation, Levy County Supervisor of Elections Office, 421 S. Court St., Bronson. Please use side entrance. The purpose of this orientation is to provide details about the requirements of being a poll worker. If you plan to attend, contact the office at 352-486-5163 or email jordan@votelevy.gov.
June 23, Friday
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. – The Tri-County Community Resource Center, 5 North Main St., in Chiefland will host a Chalk Art Party for all ages. Come help us decorate the sidewalks around the resource center (weather-permitting). Registration is NOT required for this free event.
June 26, Monday through June 30, Friday and July 6, Thursday
9 a.m.-5 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 NE 200th Ave. Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at (850) 598 5128 or click HERE.
June 26, Monday
10 a.m. -1 p.m. – Rural Women’s Health Project will be on-site at the Tri-County Community Resource Center, 5 North Main St, Chiefland, for Spanish outreach and assistance. Appointments are not required! For information, call 352-372-1095 and speak to Adriana.
June 27, Tuesday
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. – The Tri-County Community Resource Center will be on-site conducting quarterly outreach at the Dixie County Department of Health, 16328 SE Hwy 19, Cross City, to assist Dixie residents with connection to area resources. No appointment is required.
June 28, Wednesday
5 - 7 p.m. – Suwannee River Area Health Education Center will host a FREE Quit Tobacco Support on-site at the Tri-County Community Resource Center, 5 North Main St, Chiefland. Participants will receive support for quitting all types of tobacco, including tools like lozenges, patches, and gum (18+; when medically appropriate). To ensure enough supplies for all who attend, registration is required. To reserve a spot, call 1-866-341-2730.
July 1, Saturday
9 am – 3 pm -- Seahorse Key and Cedar Key Light Station Open House. Seahorse Key is an island located three miles from Cedar Key by boat and managed by the Lower Suwanee National Wildlife Refuge. The Open House allows the public to visit the UF IFAS Marine Laboratory and the pre-civil war lighthouse. Access to Seahorse Key is available to the public through Tidewater Tours, Cedar Key Boat Rentals, and Island Tours, or it can be accessed by private boats during the open house dates. Call the CK Chamber of Commerce at 352-543-5600 for more information about current Tour Boat operations in Cedar Key.
July 3, Monday
5 p.m. – City of Williston Independence Day Parade begins at 5 pm. The Independence Day Celebration will follow at Horseman’s Park, 803 SW 19th Ave., Williston beginning at 7:00 pm. Fireworks begin at dark.
July 4, Tuesday
Independence Day 2023
July 7, Friday
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 NE 200th Ave. Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at 850-598-5128 or click HERE.
July 10, Monday through July 21, Friday
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 NE 200th Ave. Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at 850-598-5128 or click HERE.
July 10, Monday
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
July 24, Monday through July 28, Friday
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 NE 200th Ave. Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at 850- 598-5128 or click HERE.
July 31, Monday through August 3 and 4, Thursday and Friday
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Youth Summer Exploration Career Camp for ages 14 through 21 years of age. Unity Family Community Center, Inc., 2351 NE 200th Ave. Williston, is an approved VR Employment Services provider providing services for in-school youth with an IEP or 504 Plan. The program includes these topics: work readiness training, self-advocacy training, postsecondary educational counseling, job exploration and work-based learning experiences. Classes may be taken in person or virtually. If interested, please contact your VR counselor or local VR office for a referral. For more information contact Joyce Wilson at 850- 598-5128 or click HERE.
Aug. 5, Saturday
10 a.m.-3 p.m. -- The 2023 Vet Fest is scheduled to be held at Otter Springs Park and Campground, 6470 S.W. 80th Ave., Trenton. Vet Fest is a free day at the park and springs with access to vendors, information, education, demonstrations, entertainment and drawings for prizes. Sponsorship opportunities are available. All proceeds from Vet Fest support the building and development of the Camp Valor Project, which broke ground on May 19, 2018. Anyone who is interested in being a vendor or sponsor this year, is asked to please see the web link to complete the vendor forms and pay online. That link can be seen by clicking HERE.
August 7, Monday
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
August 17, Thursday
10 a.m. – Poll Worker Orientation, Levy County Supervisor of Elections Office, 421 S. Court St., Bronson. Please use side entrance. The purpose of this orientation is to provide details about the requirements of being a poll worker. If you plan to attend, contact the office at 352-486-5163 or email jordan@votelevy.gov.
September 11, Monday
Patriot Day and
National Day of Service and Remembrance
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
October 2, Monday
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
October 17, Tuesday
10 a.m. or 6 p.m. – Poll Worker Orientation, Levy County Supervisor of Elections Office, 421 S. Court St., Bronson. Please use side entrance. The purpose of this orientation is to provide details about the requirements of being a poll worker. If you plan to attend, contact the office at 352-486-5163 or email jordan@votelevy.gov.
November 2, Thursday
10 a.m. – Poll Worker Orientation, Levy County Supervisor of Elections Office, 421 S. Court St., Bronson. Please use side entrance. The purpose of this orientation is to provide details about the requirements of being a poll worker. If you plan to attend, contact the office at 352-486-5163 or email jordan@votelevy.gov.
November 6, Monday
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
December 4, Monday
6:30 p.m. – The Republican Party of Dixie County is scheduled to meet starting at 6:30 p.m. in the back room of the Taste of Dixie Diner, 16840 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
Dec. 8, Friday
6-8:30 p.m. -- The Gilchrist County Chamber of Commerce is having its Downhome Christmas at the Trenton Train depot.
First Published Feb. 1, 2011 at 12:01 a.m.
Updated Dec. 12, 2022 at 8:12 a.m.
As a result of organizations changing leadership, disbanding and other factors, some gatherings have been cancelled. Please check before going to any of these.
EVERY SUNDAY
2-4 p.m. -- Every Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Cedar Key Public Library, on the second floor, the Song Farmers of Cedar Key are scheduled to meet and jam. A SongFarmer music chapter has been established in Cedar Key and everyone is are invited. SongFarmers chapters promote local musical activities around the world. There are currently 60 chapters in the United States. Cedar Key is the sixth chapter in Florida. Every Sunday afternoon, musicians and the public interested in playing or listening to acoustical music will meet atthe Cedar Key Public Library on Second Street. This chapter will focus on the use of acoustic stringed instruments – guitar, bass, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, Dobro, etc. Singing will be encouraged. There is no charge for either the musicians or audience, according to local resident John Thalacker, founder of the Cedar Key chapter. Anyone may attend, regardless of skill level or age.
EVERY MONDAY
12 p.m. – The Gilchrist County Rotary Club in the Gilchrist County Woman’s Club, 819 S.W. CR 339 (except on federal holidays). The club also meets at Akin's Barbecue three or four times a year - on random Monday afternoons. And normally this club does not meet the first Monday of the month. Instead, they meet for a Breakfast Fellowship at 8:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month. Then this club has a Board and Membership Business Meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month at noon. All Gilchrist Rotarians are invited.
The rest of the month, these Rotarians meet for member-sponsored programs on Mondays at noon. All meetings are at the Woman's Club in Trenton -- except those random meetings in Bell.
EVERY FIRST MONDAY
6:30 p.m. -- The Williston High School Football Boosters' meeting is in the Williston High School Library. Meetings will continue year-round on the first Monday of every month. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.
EVERY SECOND MONDAY
Noon -- The Dixie Education Foundation meets the second Monday of each month at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19 in Cross City.
EVERY THIRD MONDAY
6:30 p.m. -- The Levy County Republican Executive Committee's monthly meeting starts with food and fellowship at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7 p.m. at a new location for these meetings: The Gathering Table, 116 N Main St. (U.S. Highway 19) in Chiefland. Everyone is invited to come hear from county leaders who will explain what's happening now or in the future of Levy County. Every meeting has informative Republican ideas, information and plans for the future in the county, state and nation.
7 p.m. -- The Suwannee Valley Players meet at The Chief Theater, 25 E. Park Ave, Chiefland. The players discuss things that relate to the theater and upcoming shows. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome and no acting experience is necessary. For more information, please leave a message by calling 352-493-2787 or email to SuwanneeValleyPlayers@gmail.com.
EVERY LAST MONDAY
6-7 p.m. -- The Friends of ForVets Inc., which is the lead organization for the Camp Valor project at Otter Springs Park and Campground, has scheduled meetings at the Gilchrist County Public Library, 105 N.E. 11th Ave., in Trenton, on the last Monday of every month, except that there is no monthly meeting in December. For more information, please contact Debbie Destin at 352-215-5476. Everyone is welcome. Volunteers are needed.
EVERY TUESDAY
10 a.m. -- Gentle Yoga will be held at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. – Williston Rotary Club meets at the First Presbyterian Church, 247 N.E. First St., Williston.
4-7 p.m. -- The Newberry Farmer's Market is on the corner of 254th Street and Newberry Road in downtown Newberry each Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. Sellers are offering fresh veggies, meats, eggs, mushrooms, plants, honey, jams, pickled items, fruit, baked goods, boiled peanuts and more.
7 p.m. -- Fanning Springs Community Church is participating in a ministry named "His Grounds," which is to help free from all addictions. This support group meets every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. at Fanning Springs Community Church, 17930 N.W. 90th Court, in the City of Fanning Springs, Florida 32693. Everyone is welcome! If you would like more information, please call Fanning Springs Community Church at 352-463-2602 or call Marcia at 352-535-3068.
EVERY SECOND TUESDAY
10 a.m. - Noon -- Grandparents Raising Grandchildren -- A support group for grandparents raising grandchildren meets the third Tuesday of each month at First Baptist Church of Cross City, 16024 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City. Come join us for help, ideas and to be refreshed. Ideas are always appreciated for ways to help. You've got a tough job! Learn about school choices, stress relief and provide support to each other. Childcare is provided. For more information call Gigi 352-493-9183.
6:30 p.m. -- (effective Jan. 1, 2020, and going forward) Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5625 (Rebel Post) of Chiefland, is scheduled to have its monthly meeting at the post located at 6850 N.W. 137th St., north of Chiefland, just off of U.S. Highway 19. The monthly meeting used to be at 6:30 p.m., and years ago the VFW post was located at 1104 S. Main St. -- but the post has moved and the meeting time is changing to be an hour earlier as of January of 2020.
EVERY THIRD TUESDAY
11:30 a.m. -- The luncheon and business meeting for Citizens for an Engaged Electorate (CEE) is scheduled on the same day the third Tuesday of every month. Lunch is at Melanie’s Restaurant, 112 E. Noble Ave., (U.S. Alt. 27), in Williston.is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. The business meeting will take place at the R. Gerald Hethcoat Community Center in Williston City Hall, 50 N.W. Main St., beginning at 1 p.m. CEE is a group of concerned citizens whose purpose is to make the electorate aware of issues, recommend actions, and advocate for progressive change. (This meeting was moved for March of 2020 to March 20 rather than March 17, due to room availability.)
EVERY WEDNESDAY
9 a.m. – Medicare Review will be held at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
10 a.m. – Summer Reading Program will be held at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. -- The Suwannee River Economic Council has a meal site in Williston open to people who are 60 years and older. Seniors will receive a hot, nutritious, balanced meal free of charge. Donations are accepted. It’s in Thompson Hall at St. Banabas Church at 521 N.W. First Ave. Please call 352-490-7055 ext. 1 by 9 a.m. on Wednesdays to assure there will be enough meals hot and ready to serve on that day.
12 p.m. – Chiefland Rotary Club meets at The Gathering Table, Main Street (U.S. Highway 19) in downtown Chiefland.
12 p.m. – The Dixie County Rotary Club meets at the Dixie County Library, 16328 S.E U.S. Highway 19 in Cross City.
7 p.m. -- The Youth Ministry Program Ignite 4:12 at Cornerstone Assembly of God continues from Sept. 18, to be each Wednesday. Director of Youth Ministry Chris Kirby said he looks forward to seeing young people come to this weekly event at Cornerstone Assembly Of God 1045 Sixth Blvd., in Williston.
EVERY FIRST WEDNESDAY
10- 11 a.m. -- The first Wednesday of each month, interested individuals are invited to enjoy the "coffee club meeting," where Edward Jones Financial Advisor Kathryn Lancaster will discuss current updates on the market and economy in a relaxed, informal setting. This discussion is at the Edward Jones office, 220 N. Main St. (U.S. Highway 19), in Chiefland. Participants need to reserve a spot at the coffee club meeting by calling the office at 352-493-4948.
EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY
6:30 p.m. -- Toastmasters (Radiant Ridge Club) wants to help individuals with their speaking and leadership abilities. We do it by practicing, coaching and advising each other, in a non-threatening environment. We meet regularly on the second, fourth and fifth Wednesdays. Meetings are held at the First Baptist Church, Citrus Ave., in downtown Crystal River. Come visit us and see if you feel you would enjoy participating. We are always glad to have visitors. For more information on Radiant Ridge Toastmasters, please call Renate Wilms at 352-746-4598.
EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY
12 p.m. -- Every third Wednesday, there is a free community light lunch at Holy Family Catholic Church, 17353 N.E. U.S. Alt. 27 near Williston. Everyone is invited. For more information, please call 352-528-2893.
EVERY FOURTH WEDNESDAY
6:30 p.m. -- Toastmasters (Radiant Ridge Club) wants to help individuals with their speaking and leadership abilities. We do it by practicing, coaching and advising each other, in a non-threatening environment. We meet regularly on the second, fourth and fifth Wednesdays. Meetings are held at the First Baptist Church, Citrus Ave., in downtown Crystal River. Come visit us and see if you feel you would enjoy participating. We are always glad to have visitors. For more information on Radiant Ridge Toastmasters, please call Renate Wilms at 352-746-4598.
EVERY FIFTH WEDNESDAY
6:30 p.m. -- Toastmasters (Radiant Ridge Club) wants to help individuals with their speaking and leadership abilities. We do it by practicing, coaching and advising each other, in a non-threatening environment. We meet regularly on the second, fourth and fifth Wednesdays. Meetings are held at the First Baptist Church, Citrus Ave., in downtown Crystal River. Come visit us and see if you feel you would enjoy participating. We are always glad to have visitors. For more information on Radiant Ridge Toastmasters, please call Renate Wilms at 352-746-4598.
EVERY THURSDAY
12 p.m. – The Suwannee Valley Rotary Club meets in the the Central Florida Electric Cooperative. The address is 11491 N.W. 50th Ave., in Chiefland.
2 p.m. -- Weekly Kids Movie (Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult) at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19, Cross City.
7-9 p.m. -- ForVets Inc. is holding Bingo games every Thursday night in the Spring Lodge at Otter Springs Park and Campground, 6470 S.W. 80th Ave., near Trenton, in Gilchrist County. All proceeds from the sales of snacks and beverages goes toward the Camp Valor Project at Otter Springs. Bingo etiquette is required. Call 352-463-0800.Every Thursday
7 p.m. -- A Narcotics Anonymous meeting is scheduled for every Thursday at Fanning Springs Community Church, 17930 N.W. 90th Court, in the City of Fanning Springs.
7 p.m. -- Yankeetown Inglis Woman's Club Bingo is active. The games begin at 7 p.m., in the club located at 5 56th St., Yankeetown. Stop in at 5 p.m. and shop in the Second to None Shoppe. At 6 p.m., you can eat before the games start. You don't have to play to eat, we have take out! There are always sandwiches and hot dogs available. For more information call 352-447-2057.
7 p.m. -- There is Bingo every Thursday at the Williston Lions Club, 401 S.E. Sixth Ave. Contact Pamela Vamosi at 352-222-8267 or Deanna Barnard at 352-283-8828 for more information about the Lions Club of Williston.
EVERY FIRST THURSDAY
6:30 p.m. -- The Disabled American Veterans meet on the first Thursday of the month at Otter Springs Park and Campground in the Spring Lodge, 6470 S.W. 80th Ave., Trenton 32693.
EVERY SECOND THURSDAY
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. -- Cornerstone Assembly of God, 1045 Sixth Blvd. in Williston offers a free lunch each second Thursday. All are welcome. For more information, please call 352-528-6880.
Noon -- The Dixie County Chamber of Commerce meets the second Thursday of each month at the Dixie County Public Library, 16328 S.E. U.S. Highway 19 in Cross City.
1:30-3:30 p.m. -- There is an Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group that meets in the Edward Jones Conference Room at 220 N. Main St. (U.S. Highway 19), Suite 2, in Chiefland. This support group creates a safe, confidential, supportive environment or community and a chance for participants to develop informal mutual support and social relationships. Participants will learn and be informed about dementia, and the group as a whole helps participants develop methods and skills to solve problems. RSVPs are required. Call the Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 to reserve a seat or to find more information.
3 p.m. – The Nature Coast Business (Levy County) Development Council is scheduled to meet, unless otherwise noticed, in the Drummond Bank Conference Room of the Jack Wilkinson, Levy (County) Campus of The College of Central Florida, located at 15390 N.W. U.S. Highway 19, Chiefland, south of the City of Fanning Springs on the western side of the highway. The Nature Coast Business Development Council Inc. is a Levy County organization to help improve the economy in Levy County. These meetings are open to the public. Any members of the public wishing to bring any matters before the board may do so by contacting NCBDC Executive Director Scott Osteen via email at director@naturecoast.org. The NCBDC is an entity that evolved from an original group formed in 1985, which was, is and is planned to be committed to fostering economic prosperity and the highest quality of life in the communities it serves, which are in Levy County.
7-8 p.m. -- The Levy (County) Backyard Beekeepers meet second Thursday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Bronson Community Church, 948 E. Hathaway Ave. (U.S. Alt. 27), in Bronson, Florida. For more information contact Steve Starks at 386-288-0741 or John Dulaney at 352-284-3211. Free honeybee removal is available.
7 p.m. -- The Levy County Horse Club is scheduled to meet on the second Thursday of the month at The Gathering Table Restaurant in Chiefland. Arrive earlier for dinner. Are you interested in horses and trailriding? Join us for our monthly social and check us out at http://www.levycountyhorseclub.com/.
EVERY THIRD THURSDAY
6 p.m. -- The HealingStrong organization meets in the Gilchrist County Public Library at 105 N.E. 11th Ave., in Trenton. HealingStrong is a cancer resource organization, which helps people by educating, connecting, and encouraging those seeking comprehensive, natural strategies to heal strong and stay strong. Healing Strong is a non-profit, federally approved organization made up of a growing network of HealingStrong Groups in the United States, Canada and some other countries. The power of the HealingStrong Groups comes from fostering a vibrant, synergistic, loving community where patients get inspiration and motivation, are empowered with information to take action (or change direction), and are encourage to be strong and courageous and to never give up. Meetings are free, encouraging, informative and full of hope because no one should have to heal alone. Together, people at these meetings may find strength through faith, education and connection with others.
EVERY FRIDAY
7:15 a.m. -- The Citrus Business Network (CBN) exists to grow the business and profitability of our members by providing leads and referral information, sharing marketing ideas and utilizing each others' services. Everyone wants to do business with people they know, like and trust. The CBN allows us to develop that kind of relationship, not only with other members, but also with friends and business contacts. We meet Friday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the Twisted Oak Country Club, in Beverly Hills. Breakfast and social time begins at 7:15. We would love to have you visit a meeting and see if CBN is right for you. Questions? Call Peg Weston at 352-586-2343.
EVERY FIRST FRIDAY
6-9 p.m. -- Everyone is invited to join the fun at a family-friendly event in Cross City on the first Friday of the month. This event is a party without drugs or alcohol. Every first Friday, the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition sponsors a family-friendly Friday Night Done Right from in the city park behind the Dixie County Courthouse in Cross City. Everyone is welcome to enjoy for music, games and dancing. The event itself is free, but there are usually concessions for sale by local youth organizations. For more information, or to host a Friday Night Done Right of your own, please call Debby Sweem 352-210-2601 or visit www.community-together.org/friday.
EVERY THIRD FRIDAY
6-9 p.m. -- Everyone is invited to join the fun at a family-friendly event in Old Town. This event is a party without drugs or alcohol. Every third Friday, the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition sponsors a family-friendly Friday Night Done Right from at the 1st District Community Center in Old Town (9223 N.E. 349 Highway). This is on Highway 349 about 10 miles north of the light in Old Town. Everyone is welcome to enjoy for music, games and dancing. The event itself is free, but there are usually concessions for sale by local youth organizations. For more information, or to host a Friday Night Done Right of your own, please call Debby Sweem 352-210-2601 or visit www.community-together.org/friday.
EVERY SECOND SATURDAY
8 a.m. – The United Methodist Men of Fist United Methodist Church of Chiefland meet the second Saturday of every month. They meet in the Fellowship Hall, which is in the basement of First UMC Chiefland, 707 Main St., Chiefland.
9:45 a.m. -- C.A.N. (Community Alliance Network) meets at the Living Water Life Center (LWLC) 6491 S.E. 123 Terrace Morriston. We’re meeting to put together resources and ideas for growing, bartering, food storage, alternative energy and other forms of self-sufficiency. Join us to hear speakers from like-minded groups share their visions and help us form ours. We always look forward to meeting new people.
4 p.m. -- There is a “Community Round Table Meeting” at Inglis City Hall each second Saturday of each month. This is an open forum for residents of Inglis to come together to discuss area needs and views.
EVERY THIRD SATURDAY
5:30 p.m. -- Everyone is invited to a Gospel Sing on the third Saturday of each month at St. Johns United Methodist Church, on the corner of Alachua County Roads 236 and 239, in Alachua. The mailing address is 10708 N.W. County Road 236. There will be a sign at corner of the intersection. Each month, there will also be a fellowship afterward with a covered dish meal.
EVERY FOURTH SATURDAY
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. -- The South Levy Marketplace, which is held the fourth Saturday of each month, happens in the Food Ranch Plaza, 40 U.S. Highway 19 N., just north of Follow That Dream Parkway (Levy County Road 40). Vendors provide goods, demonstrations and services. There are even free cat adoptions. Vendor spaces and quality yard sale spaces are 10x10 for $10. Civic groups and non-profit groups can have spaces for free. For more information, call 352-302-1771.
EVERY LAST SATURDAY
1-3 p.m. -- The Care for Caregivers group meets on the last Saturday of each month in the Williston City Hall Community Center, 50 N.W. Main St. in Williston. Williston has support for caregivers and their loved ones who have dementia.
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