7-7-20
Returning to normal
Branford’s Independence Day Celebration was well attended

The crowds were much larger than expected at the Branford River Reunion’s 4th of July celebration. -Photo: Submitted
6-30-20
Hooked On Heroes Dedicates Veterans Monument at City of Live Oak Cemetery

A new monument dedicated by Hooked On Heroes in the City of Live Oak Cemetery commemorates the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. -Photo by Jeffry Boatright
6-26-20
Florida Re-suspending on-premises alcohol sales for bars and pubs
Staff Reports
Today, Helsey Beshears, Secretary for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation announced in a tweet that all vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises who derive more than 50 percent of gross revenue from sales shall suspend all sales for consumption on the premises. Emergency Order 2020-09, effective June 26, 2020. They may continue to sell alcohol in sealed containers for consumption off the premises. Food establishments, however, that derive 50 percent or less of their gross revenue from alcohol may continue to operate for on-premises consumption at tables in accordance with Executive Order 20-71, Sections 1 and 2.
6-24-20
A Picture Says a Thousand Words
For Our Veterans

More than 200 Patriotic Paintings to be shared with veterans in our care to honor them on July 4, 2020. -Photo Submitted

Veteran painting project coordinator Betsy Miller.
-Photo: Submitted
6-24-20
Smokey Bear Bumper Sticker Contest

By Florida Forest Service
The Florida Forest Service is holding a Smokey Bear Bumper Sticker Design Contest. The deadline is before September 30, 2020.
Use your artistic skills to create a Smokey Bear Bumper Sticker that sends a message to your community to help prevent devastating wildfires.
6-16-20
North Florida's Soundman will be missed – Donald Johns passes away at age 61

Donald Johns running sound last year at Suwannee River Catfish Festival in Branford. -Archived SVT Photo by Tami Stevenson
6-12-20
Jacksonville chosen as President Trump's host for National Convention
By Tami Stevenson
Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Ronna McDaniel said in a news release, Thursday evening, that Jacksonville was chosen as the destination spot for the Republican Renomination Convention to re-elect President Donald Trump.
The celebration is now set to take place at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Area in 75 short days.
6-10-20
A Nation in Protest

Protesters gathered at the steps of the Suwannee County Courthouse recently to denounce racism and violence. -Photo by Demetrius Armstead
5-27-20
Businesses in Live Oak moving forward in spite of pandemic

Construction for Ellianos in Live Oak located in Save A Lot parking lot.
-SVT Photo by Tami Stevenson
5-15-20
Restaurants can operate at 50 percent, gyms and other retail – Starting Monday
By Tami Stevenson
During a press release today in Jacksonville, beginning Monday, May 18, 2020, Governor DeSantis announced restaurants can operate at 50 percent indoor capacity. Gyms and fitness centers can also open up as well as museums and libraries along with other retail businesses at a 50 percent capacity.