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Thursday Boaters
A couple of boaters enjoy the Suwannee River on Thursday afternoon (March 23). They are seen here as they pass by Clay Landing in Levy County, relatively near to Manatee Springs State Park.
Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © March 23, 2023 at 3:15 p.m.
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Deer And Space Plants
This deer was seen in Levy County on Tuesday morning (March 21) as it crossed a road in front of a deer-alert motorist who was eastbound.
Spring officially started March 20 and the annual appearance of space plants has started in the Tri-County Area of Levy County, Dixie County and Gilchrist County. The tall-stalked yellow flower space plants have not been noticed yet.
Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © March 22, 2023 at 8 p.m.
National Healthcare Decision Day
proclaimed as April 16 in Levy County
Deanna Sheppard, MBA, a professional liaison of Haven Hospice speaks to the Levy County Commission on Tuesday morning (March 21) to speak about National Healthcare Decision Day on April 16.
Story and Photo
By Jeff M. Hardison © March 21, 2023 at 5 p.m.
BRONSON -- Deanna Sheppard, MBA, a professional liaison of Haven Hospice spoke to the Levy County Commission on Tuesday morning (March 21) about the meaning of National Healthcare Decision Day on April 16.
Sheppard said she works with Haven Hospice, which is one of the hospices that serves the Tri-County Area of Levy County, Gilchrist County and Dixie County.
This day is to remind people to have advance care directives in place with their primary care physician, and to have a copy of those documents stored in a secure place before any person reaches that point, Sheppard said.
No one knows when they will be incapacitated or when they will die, Sheppard said.
“Who’s going to make those decisions when you can’t speak for yourself?” she asked.
This is free service offered by any hospice, she said. Also, as a reminder, to be under hospice care a person need not be referred by a doctor. Hospices are in touch with churches and families, she said.
Levy County Commission Chairman Matt Brooks this matter is a difficult conversation for some families to go through. Being prepared for end-of-life decisions before the end is there, he said, helps families get through those painful moments when decisions must be made.
The proclamation adopted by a 5-0 vote by the Levy County Commission follows:
Whereas, National Healthcare Decision Day is recognized across our nation on April 16, 2023, to raise public awareness of the need to plan ahead for health-care decisions, especially those related to end of life care and medical decision-making when patients are unable to speak for themselves, and to encourage the specific use of advanced directives to communicate these important health care decisions; and
Whereas, many Levy County, Florida residents have not yet prepared for or documented healthcare decisions in times of crisis or at end of life, or had important conversations with their families concerning their healthcare; and
Whereas, a likely significant reason for the lack of preparation and documentation is that there is both a lack of awareness and an uncertainty in the public about Advanced Directives; and
Whereas, some of the goals of Healthcare Decisions Day are to raise awareness and provide clear and consistent information to the public about Advanced Directives, as well as encourage medical professionals and lawyers to volunteer their time and efforts to improve public knowledge and increase the number of citizens with Advanced Directives; and
Whereas, Haven Hospice endorses this event and is committed to educating the public during the month of April to stress the importance of discussing healthcare choices and executing Advanced Directives to make wishes known.
Now, Therefore, Be It Proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners, Levy County, Florida, that April 2023 shall be recognized as “National Healthcare Decision Month” and, furthermore, encourage the citizens of Levy County to increase their understanding and awareness of Advanced Directives and informing their families of their wishes.
CKWC Presents Checks
Spring Market On March 25
Cedar Key Woman’s Club Treasurer, Teresa Stevens, had the happy job of spreading joy last week as she delivered donation checks from the Cedar Key Woman’s Club to local community service projects. Money for these projects and others is raised by the Woman’s Club members through various events supported by the community. The next upcoming event is the Spring Market, which is scheduled for March 25 at the CKWC Clubhouse from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Vendors are welcome. Please call 352-543-0363 to have a place to sell on Saturday. Here, Cedar Key Woman’s Club Treasurer, Teresa Stevens, presents check to Telicia Winfield for City of Cedar Key’s Summer Youth Program.
Cedar Key Woman’s Club Members and Food Pantry Volunteers Judy Treharne, Teresa Stevens and Lorraine Gramolini, present a check to Sue Colson, Director of the Cedar Key Food Pantry.
Teresa Stevens presents a $500 check to Kimberly Stanfield for the Cedar Key Community Relief Program.
Published March 20, 2023 at 7:45 a.m.
Photos and Information Provided By Donna Bushnell
Voters hear from Yankeetown candidates
Inglis forum set for March 25
Candidates in the April 4 election in Yankeetown are (from left) Katrina Atherly, Adam McNiece, David Pisano, Jeff St. John and Lawrence Vorisek.
Story and Photos
By Peter Weiss, HardisonInk.com correspondent
© March 19, 2023 at 6 p.m.
YANKEETOWN – Yesterday (Saturday, March 18), A Candidate's Forum was conducted at the Yankeetown Inglis Woman's Club building in Yankeetown.
Five candidates answered audience questions for approximately two hours. The five candidates are seeking election to three vacant seats on the Yankeetown City Counsel. The election will be April 4.
About 50 individuals attended the event on Saturday.
The Withlacoochee Gulf Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the Meet Your Candidates event.
Members of the public listen to candidates on March 18.
The Withlacoochee Gulf Area Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to the next -- Meet Your Candidates event, which is scheduled to be March 25 at 10 a.m.
This is slated to be the Inglis Candidate Forum, which is set to be held at the Inglis Community Center, 137 Levy County Road 40 West, in Inglis. Everyone is invited to this free event.
Savvy caregiving training
set for seven Wednesdays
April 12 to May 24 from 1 to 3 p.m.
By Jeff M. Hardison © March 15, 2023 at 12 p.m.
CHIEFLAND -- Amanda Sparkman, a Caregiver Support Coach
with Elder Options, is offering a free seven-week training program for caregivers who assist persons with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
The class is designed to increase caregiver knowledge, skills, and outlook to make the role of caregiving a little easier.
The programs are for seven Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m., starting April 12 and ending May 24. The programs are scheduled to be held in a Chiefland location.
To register contact Amanda Sparkman via email at sparkmana@agingresources.org or by calling 352-692-5226.
Lenten Moon is Worm Moon too
Moon shot at night looking east
and in the morning looking west
This photo of the full Moon of March was taken on the northern edge of the unrecorded subdivision known as Jemlands, in the unincorporated part of Levy County, near the intersection of Levy County Road 347 and Northwest 100th Avenue. The picture was taken on March 6, after 7 p.m., about 12 hours before the Moon reached peak illumination at 7:42 a.m. Eastern Standard Time today (Tuesday, March 7). On Monday night, this picture was taken as a vehicle topped what has become known as Jemlands Hill as it goes eastbound on CR 347.
Story and Photos
By Jeff M. Hardison © March 7, 2023 at 7:15 a.m.
JEMLANDS -- March’s full Moon today (Tuesday, March 7) plays a role in Christianity as well as carrying a name from Native Americans, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The Old Farmer's Almanac is a trusted source for long range weather forecasts, moon phases, full moon dates and times, gardening tips, sunrise and sunset times, and more.
March’s full Moon is known as the Lenten Moon if it is the last full Moon of the winter season, if it occurs before the spring equinox, like it does this year.
Spring equinox this year occurs on Monday, March 20, at 5:24 p.m., according to many astronomical sources.
This heralds the start of spring – on March 20, from an astronomical perspective.
The full Moon of March is the Paschal Full Moon if it is the first full Moon of spring -- if it occurs after the spring equinox, which is not the case this year.
As noted, this year, March’s full Moon (March 7) occurs before the spring equinox (March 20), making it the Lenten Moon. April’s full Moon (April 6) will be the first full Moon to occur after the spring equinox and will therefore determine the date of Easter this year.
Above, in the two pictures published above, the March full Moon is seen on the early night of March 6. It is the Full Worm Moon of 2023.
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Below are pictures taken from the hayfield to the immediate south of The Ink Pad which is on the southern border of the unrecorded subdivision known as Jemlands, in the unincorporated part of Levy County. (Thanks, neighbor.) These pictures were taken this morning (Tuesday, March 7) at 6:37 to 6:38 a.m. EST, looking to the west. This morning was foggy in Gilchrist County and some other counties in the area, however it was relatively clear enough to take pictures of the Moon this morning from the southwestern tip of Jemlands in Levy County.
The final full moon of winter 2023 is scheduled to light up the sky over the Tri-County Area March 7.
Named the worm moon by Native American tribes in the 18th Century in reference to different creatures emerging from their winter hideouts to welcome spring, the March Moon reached peak illumination at 7:42 a.m. Eastern Standard Time Tuesday, March 7, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Below is the list of full Moon dates and their most commonly accepted nicknames remaining in 2023, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
April 6 -- Pink Moon
May 5 -- Flower Moon
June 3 -- Strawberry Moon
July 3 -- Buck Moon
August 1 -- Sturgeon Moon
August 30 -- Blue Moon (because it is the second of two full Moon events in one month)
September 29 -- Harvest Moon
October 28 -- Hunter’s Moon
November 27 -- Beaver Moon
December 26 -- Cold Moon
The Astronomical Applications Department of the United States Navy is a good source for accurate Moon-oriented information.
The United States Naval Observatory (USNO) is another good source for navigational information. The USNO provides a wide range of astronomical data and products, and serves as the official source of time for the United Department of Defense, and a standard of time for the entire United States.
The best source of information about space-oriented matters is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which is the United States of America’s civil space program and the global leader in space exploration.
A Tale of Two Ospreys:
From Cedar Key rescue
to national children’s book
Cedar Keys Audubon
presents program March 27
Janie Veltkamp, Raptor Biologist/Rehabilitator & Author
Information and Photos
Provided By Boyd Kimball, Programs, Cedar Keys Audubon
Published March 4, 2023 at 4:45 p.m.
CEDAR KEY -- Cedar Keys Audubon invites everyone to a free program on March 27 to learn about a particular bird and a particular human.
Titled, A Tale of Two Ospreys: From Cedar Key Rescue to National Children’s Book, the program starts at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 27, in the Cedar Key Community Center, 809 Sixth St. in Cedar Key.
How does a local bird rescue become a book for kids?
The answer to that question and the amazing story behind it are the subjects of this Cedar Keys Audubon talk. Rehabilitator and raptor biologist Janie Veltkamp is scheduled to present the program.
Veltkamp received training at the prestigious University of Minnesota Raptor Center, where she learned how to expertly care for and treat medically injured birds of prey. She earned her Master’s degree in Biology from Purdue University, where her thesis investigated wintering Bald Eagle habitat in Indiana.
Veltkamp has rescued, treated and released back into the wild thousands of eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and osprey. Her 30 years in raptor biology have included extensive experience in banding and using telemetry units for tracking purposes. She spent nine years as Reintroduction Coordinator for Indiana/South Dakota peregrine falcons and osprey. Most significantly, she is the founder of Birds of Prey NW in northern Idaho, a non-profit raptor rehabilitation and raptor center she has run for over three decades. At that facility alone she has handled about 4,500 raptors.
Her primary goal is to educate people about the ecological importance of birds of prey. She does this through in-person visits to schools, with live raptors, virtual visits to classrooms or libraries, as well as educational programs at her BOPNW site.
Through these presentations she has been able to reach thousands of students. Veltkamp’s focus on Science Technology Engineering Mathematics education had led her to publish her first award-winning nonfiction children’s book, Beauty and the Beak: How Science, Technology and a 3D Printed Beak Rescued a Bald Eagle, in 2017.
Given her robust background in raptor rescue, Veltkamp was ready for what seemed like an impossible challenge in Cedar Key.
When storm-tossed osprey chicks needed a new home quickly, could an empty nest be found with parents willing to accept them, somewhere in the area? What were the odds it would all fall together in less than 48 hours?
In the meantime, she had to keep them properly fed and secure.
The ensuing 2019 Easter weekend epic inspired her second children’s book, Swoop and Soar: How Science Found Two Ospreys a New Family.
This compelling story and its transformation into a children’s book will be the focus for Veltkamp’s presentation for Cedar Keys Audubon.
Pilot’s View
In this photograph provided by Jeff Carey, a view of Cross City Airport is shown during one of the annual Fly-In and Business Expo events hosted by the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce. The next Fly-In, Cruise-In and Business Expo is set for April 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cross City Airport, 508 N.E. 241st St. in Cross City. Admission is free. Among the many attractions scheduled this year are displays of military aircraft, rescue aircraft, sport aircraft and radio-controlled aircraft. Cars, trucks and motorcycles are planned to be shown as well. There are going to be business exhibits, food and craft vendors, rides for children, and plane and helicopter rides as well.
Published Feb. 12, 2023 at 2:45 p.m.
Photo By Jeff Carey
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.
March 27, Monday
5 p.m. -- Cedar Keys Audubon invites everyone to a free program to learn about a particular bird and a particular human. Titled, A Tale of Two Ospreys: From Cedar Key Rescue to National Children’s Book, the program starts at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 27, in the Cedar Key Community Center, 809 Sixth St. in Cedar Key. How does a local bird rescue become a book for kids? The answer to that question and the amazing story behind it are the subjects of this Cedar Keys Audubon talk. Rehabilitator and raptor biologist Janie Veltkamp is scheduled to present the program.
April 1, Saturday
10 a.m.-5 p.m. -- The Old Florida Celebration of the Arts in Cedar Key (once known by some as the Spring Arts Festival of Cedar Key), is slated to happen again. This festival is a juried Fine Arts and Crafts Event which has been named as one of the Top Art Small Town Fairs in America. The venue welcomes only 100 fine artists and craftsmen to keep the focus on art and allow for plenty of room for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Proceeds benefit the Cedar Key Arts Center and local non-profit organizations that serves homemade goodies and local seafood in beachfront City Park during this event. More more information, please contact the coordinators via email at CedarKeyArtsFestival@gmail.com. This year's coordinators are The Cedar Key Arts Center Committee - Bev Ringenberg, Sandy Witcher, Patsy Schossler, Mary Prescott, Ann Morgan, Janet Gigeous, Gini Barss, Dee Miller, Sandy Lindhout, Sue Rosenthal, Eileen Senecal, Sherry Sicking and Marci Wilcox.
10 a.m. -- The Friends of the Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve nvite everyone to a free program to learn about a particular bird and a particular human. Titled, A Tale of Two Ospreys: From Cedar Key Rescue to National Children’s Book, the program is set to be at the WGP in Yankeetown. How does a local bird rescue become a book for kids? The answer to that question and the amazing story behind it are the subjects of this Cedar Keys Audubon talk. Rehabilitator and raptor biologist Janie Veltkamp is scheduled to present the program. The Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve is a 413-acre parcel of undeveloped wetlands. It consists of mixed hardwood, pine, and cabbage palm forest, tidal marshes and several salt ponds. The Preserve has a 30-foot observation tower, salt pond boardwalk, Gulf accessible canoe/kayak dock, and a 4,500 square-foot Education Center -- where this program will be presented. It is located at 1001 Old Rock Road, just off Levy County Road 40 West, in Yankeetown. The Preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk.
April 1, Saturday
11 a.m. -- The Williston Rotary Club's Annual Easter Egg Hunt starts at 11 a.m. This set of Rotarians will have activities followed by the egg hunt for children. They are giving away FREE hotdogs, chips and a drink for everyone. Everyone is invited to join in the festive event for some Springtime fun. This Easter egg hunt and hotdog giveaway is set to be at John Henry Park 396 N.W. First Ave., in Willistob, Children are reminded to BYOB (Bring Your Own Basket).
April 2, Sunday
10 a.m.-4 p.m. -- This is the second day of the fun and art in Cedar Key. The Old Florida Celebration of the Arts in Cedar Key (once known by some as the Spring Arts Festival of Cedar Key), is slated to happen again. This festival is a juried Fine Arts and Crafts Event which has been named as one of the Top Art Small Town Fairs in America. The venue welcomes only 100 fine artists and craftsmen to keep the focus on art and allow for plenty of room for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Proceeds benefit the Cedar Key Arts Center and local non-profit organizations that serves homemade goodies and local seafood in beachfront City Park during this event. More more information, please contact the coordinators via email at CedarKeyArtsFestival@gmail.com. This year's coordinators are The Cedar Key Arts Center Committee - Bev Ringenberg, Sandy Witcher, Patsy Schossler, Mary Prescott, Ann Morgan, Janet Gigeous, Gini Barss, Dee Miller, Sandy Lindhout, Sue Rosenthal, Eileen Senecal, Sherry Sicking and Marci Wilcox.
April 3, 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.
April 8, Saturday
10 a.m.-2 p.m. -- The Florida Forest Service is inviting families and visitors to celebrate Gopher Tortoise Day at Goethe State Forest. The event is free to the public at the Black Prong Trailhead. Visitors will walk and talk with Florida Forest Service biologists and foresters to learn more about the importance of protecting gopher tortoises and their dependence on the local ecosystem. The Black Prong Trailhead at Goethe State Forest is located at 2720 Levy County Road 337, Morriston. "Goethe State Forest is a 53,587-acre forest that preserves the habitats of many wildlife species," said Rick Dolan, Interim Director of the Florida Forest Service. "We hope people will take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the importance of protecting the 19 different ecological communities, each with unique plants and animals, including the gopher tortoise."
April 9, Easter Sunday
7 a.m. -- A Community Easter Sonrise Service is scheduled to be held Easter Sunday at 7 a.m. at Fort Fanning Outdoor Amphitheater just off of Kentucky Avenue in the City of Fanning Springs. The natural beauty of this property combined with biblical preaching and singing, all proclaiming and celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus, has made this an Easter tradition for many in the area. Organizers of the event invite everyone to join them as they gather again together to proclaim “He IS Risen indeed!” This event is led by the folks from Fanning Springs Community Church, Joppa Baptist Church, Priscilla Baptist Church, and Redemption Church. After the service, Joppa Baptist Church invites everyone to a Covered Dish Breakfast Fellowship at the church building at 7530 N.W. 165th St., Trenton. For more information, please call Fanning Springs Community Church at 352-463-2602.
April 13, Thursday
6-8 p.m. -- People who want to help Cedar Key prepare for future flooding vulunerability are invited to participate in a project. The University of Florida is partnering with the City of Cedar Key in a two-year project to assess comprehensive flooding vulnerability and to create a resilience plan for the city. This project is funded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Resilient Florida Program. It is intended to establish Cedar Key to access state infrastructure funds in the coming years to address flooding vulnerability. Attendees at this public meeting will help the project team by reviewing draft map products and providing input about their experiences with flooding in the City. This public meeting is scheduled to be at the Cedar Key Community Center, 809 Sixth St., Cedar Key. Pizza and refreshments will be provided. An RSVP is requested, although not required, for attendees. Email Emily Colson at emilycolson@ufl.edu to RSVP.
April 15, Saturday
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. -- The Dixie County Chamber of Commerce Fly-In Cruise-In and Business Expo is scheduled to be at the Cross City Airport. There is free admission. Among the anticipated items slated are military, rescue and sport aircraft; radio-controlled flying model planes; show cars, trucks and motorcycles; business exhibits; food and drink vendors; art and craft vendors; and rides for children. Airplane and helicopter rides and demonstrations are set to be there too. The Cross City Airport (KCTY) is located at 508 N.E. 241st St. in Cross City. Pedestrian gates open at 8 a.m. for airplane and helicopter rides.
8 a.m.-10 a.m. -- The William T. Carlton Masonic Lodge #46 holds a sign is having a fundraiser at the lodge, 125 N.E. Second Ave., in Trenton. For $10 a plate, donors will get pancakes, scrambled eggs, link sausage, giant biscuits, sausage gravy, fruit, juice, coffee and water. This event is a fundraiser for the Masons to buy the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office an automated external defibrillator (AED) for a cruiser. An AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the life-threatening cardiac issues and provides easy instructions to shock a heart so that it restarts. Not every cruiser has an AED, and this group of Masons wants to add to the Sheriff's Office inventory.
April 22, Saturday
9 a.m.-2 p.m. -- The Gilchrist County Chamber of Commerce is having a Plant and Craft Sale at Trenton Park by the Community Center.
April 27, 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.
April 29, Saturday
10 a.m.-12 p.m. -- The Tri-County Community Resource Center, 15 N. Main St. (U.S. Highway 19) in Chiefland, invites everyone to its Eighth Annual Birthday Celebration, which has become known as The TCCRC Spring Fling. This two-hour celebration features food, games, a bounce house, birthday cake and several information booths. This is an event to help everyone know about locally available resources. It’s a free and family-oriented event. Last year, more than 45 organizations participated.
May 1, 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.
June 5, 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.
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.
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.
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
10 a.m. -- Williston AARP Chapter #912 is scheduled to meet St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Thompson Hall, 661 N.W. First Ave., Williston. Socializing is at 10 a.m. and the meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. on the second Monday each of month from January to May and from September through December.
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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