Protecting Florida’s kids

Governor Ron DeSantis talks about the “Let Kids Be Kids” bill package, signed May 17, 2023. -Photo Governor’s Press

By Tami Stevenson

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis signed five bills into law, calling it the “Let Kids Be Kids” bill package to protect the innocence of Florida’s kids.

Madison’s Historic 4-H Camp Cherry Lake Cabins Available

-Photo by UF/IFAS,Tyler Jones

By Samantha Murray

Madison, Fla., – Major facility and infrastructure updates at Camp Cherry Lake in Madison are planned for the coming years. These updates will include replacing most of Camp Cherry Lake’s cabins with climate-controlled lodging that is more accessible. One original cabin will be retained to share the history of the camp and area with visitors.

Suwannee Valley Cornhole Tournament Raises over $4,700 for United Way

-SVEC PHOTO

NFC Graduates Honored at Spring 2023 Commencement Ceremony

MADISON, FL –North Florida College awarded 138 students with degrees or certificates at the conclusion of its Spring Term 2023. Graduates were honored at NFC’s Spring 2023 Commencement Ceremony on May 11 at Van H. Priest Auditorium. The event’s guest speaker was the Honorable Allison Tant, Florida House of Representatives, District 9.

“Education has the power for generational change. And, I see that in all of you,” stated Representative Tant as she addressed NFC’s upcoming graduates. “You - despite the odds; despite the fact that it is harder to something than it is to do nothing; your determination; your decision to take this next step – You are here today and for that you are my hero. It is my honor to be here today to honor you.”

NFC applauds the accomplishments of its graduates. Congratulations NFC Class of 2023!

Click the 'Read More' link to see student names

Church Garden Update

**UPDATE** 5-12-23

Tristen Alderson received the "Seed for Education" scholarship during Hamilton High's senior awards ceremony, May 11. Over $600,000 in scholarships were awarded.

Harvest Church board and members present scholarship award. L-R: Darlene Lister, Kasey Register, Tristen Alderson - scholarship recipient, Mark Smith and Charlotte Henderson. -Photo by Paula G. Williams.

The Church Garden

Sowing a seed into a student’s life

Church Garden Photo by Doug Clayton

Boris Brothers Named Save A Lot’s Retail Partner of the Year

By Tami Stevenson

Local Save A Lot owners Mike and Mark Boris were named retail partners of the year by the Save A Lot grocery chain during an annual meeting and food show for store owners and operators in St. Charles, Missouri recently.


The Boris brothers have been known for years at the Lake City and Live Oak stores for their hands-on, friendly approach to running their stores. Their customers have always been their number one priority. Today they own six Save A Lot grocery stores. The other four are located in Perry, Cross City, Chiefland and Macclenny. They also own an IGA in Carrabelle, Florida (in the panhandle).

Black Gold Farms Recognized for Environmental Stewardship Efforts

Black Gold Farms receives a CARES designation at the 22nd Annual Suwannee CARES Celebration on May 2, 2023. (L to R) Wilton Simpson (Commissioner of Agriculture), Dr. Andra Johnson (Dean of UF/IFAS Extension) and Director of the Florida Cooperative Extension), Thomas Ransom and Cody Darling (Black Gold Farms), Hugh Thomas (Executive Director of the Suwannee River Water Management District) and Jeb S. Smith (Florida Farm Bureau Federation President. - Photo: Florida Farm Bureau

Growers & Makers Market back in Lake City

Mama E’s Gourmet Delectables offered a huge variety of canned vegetables and other goods. -All SVT Photos by Tami Stevenson

Florida Death Penalty now 8-4

Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 450 last Thursday. -Photo: Governor’s Press Office

Disney’s Last-Ditch Attempt to Defy the Legislature

Reedy Creek Improvement District Office in Lake Buena Vista - CC Photo