Governor Scott is recommending repealing the prescription drug tracking system. The program is designed to monitor prescription activity to prevent pill mills and drug abuse. Local pharmacists Paul Doering says he is very disappointed in this decision https://filsonhistorical.org/mr-skygak-from-mars/ because prescription abuse is a growing problem in Florida. “At first I …

One Marion County resident died yesterday when he lost control of a fire on his property. 66-year-old Warren Wimberly had a permit to burn 2 acres of land, but a heavy gust of wind spread the fire. Florida Division of Forestry spokeswoman Ludie Bond says wind can greatly increase the …

Gainesville seafood vendors are excited about the coverage Gulf seafood will receive today on a national cooking show. Bravo’s Top Chef is featuring gulf seafood to remind America it is safe to eat. Gainesville’s Northwest Seafood Co-Owner Lee Dedrick says the oil spill is still affecting people’s perception. “Customers are …

More crimes were solved and fewer committed in Gainesville last year. Gainesville Police Department Spokeswoman Tscharna Senn says this is the result of some specific action by the department, including increased patrols on the street and more community involvement. “When we plugged those numbers in we were happily surprised. We …

The reenactment of Florida’s largest Civil War battle at Olustee is expected to draw around 2000 participants this Sunday. Lake City Mayor and Blue-Gray Army Commanding General Stephen Witt says the purpose of the reenactment is to pay homage to all Americans who fought in the Civil War. “It’s to …

The Southeastern United States produces more wood products than any country, and the University of Florida has received a grant to keep that level high. UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation Professor Tim Martin says this $20 million grant will help preserve the region’s economy and ecology. “It’s really …

An Ocala man, who had his medical license revoked 15 years ago, has been arrested for practicing medicine without a license. Yaser Hasan Loufti, also known as Doctor Lou, had been practicing chelation, which cleanses the blood of heavy metals. Marion County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Judge Cochran says Loufti’s patients …

Marion County Animal Services is trying to gain legal custody of the 35 cats seized from a Silver Springs home earlier this week. Animal Services Program Coordinator Elaine DeIorio says the cats were taken from Nelly Vega, who was convicted of animal cruelty in 2006. “These types of people will …

Runners from 21 different states and Canada are coming to Gainesville this weekend for the annual Five Points of Life Race. Five Points of Life Foundation Director Brite Whitaker says the focus is on educating participants and spectators alike on the importance of donating blood, marrow, and tissue. “Donations are …

The Florida Department of Transportation will continue its move down mainstreet today. Main Street from south of University Avenue to south of South First Avenue is now closed for the project expected to last approximately six weeks. FDOT will be taking out the old asphalt and bricks so underground utility …