The best holiday gift this year may not cost anything but a little time.  WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says blood banks are always in need. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/12/HolidayBloodDonationsWRAP.mp3]

A missing Ocala teenager may be at risk. Marion County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Judge Cochran says 17-year-old Katelynn Sargent has been missing since Monday. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/12/Cochran1.mp3] Cochran says they believe Sargent may around St Augustine now, but possibly heading towards Orlando.  Anyone with information about Katelynn’s location can contact local law …

Education in Alachua County may see some significant funding deficits.  WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says Alachua County is waiting on the state to hand down the latest figures. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/12/SCHOOLBOARDWRAP.mp3] Alachua County Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Keith Birkett says the county has built up a significant reserve to help allay the effects …

The University of Florida Board of Trustees has kicked off today’s meeting and WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says University of Florida President Bernie Machen has begun today’s discussions with a positive look forward. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/12/BETHVOICER1.mp3] But WUFT-FM’s Laura Christmas says some tough decisions are facing the Board in the next few hours. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/12/LAURAVOICER2.mp3]

With American Airlines filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, small airports carrying subsidiary flights haven’t seen significant changes yet.  American Eagle flies passengers from Gainesville to the American Airlines hub in Miami and WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says passengers are still taking flight. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/BETHVOICER2.mp3]

Alachua County drivers nervous about traveling during the holiday weekend may not have a lot to worry about. WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says with an increase in traffic comes an increase in traffic patrols. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/THANKSGIVINGTRAFFIC.mp3]

The Gator Nation has come together along the streets of University Avenue.  WUFT-FM’s Shauna Mackey says no time was spared getting a good seat for today’s parade. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/SHAUNAVOICER.mp3] WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says crowds along the street mean Gator merchandise flying off the shelves. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/BETHVOICER1.mp3]

You may be pulling tricks this Halloween, but make sure your pets don’t get into your treats. Gainesville Pet Rescue Assistant to Exective Director Lindsey Hidenburry says the biggest threats to animals are candy and pranksters. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/10/Hidenburry1.mp3] Hidenburry says to take your animal to a vet immediately if it gets …

The City of Gainesville has acquired an 87-acre parcel of land on the west boundary of the Flatwoods Conservation Area. City Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Program Coordinator Stefanie Nagid says the expansion will allow for more recreational opportunities, like nature trails and bird watching, and other avenues in the …

Protesters continue to demand changes as we enter the third week of “Occupy” protests downtown.  WUFT-FM’s Bothaina Saleh says, in Gainesville, the protests have been quiet so far. [audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/10/BETHVOICER.mp3] “Occupy Gainesville” demonstrator Aaron Sachrios says violence does not help achieve the goals of the protest overall, but he can only …