WUFT News News and Public Media for North Central Florida from the University of Florida in Gainesville

Gov. Ron DeSantis attended a press briefing alongside President Donald Trump on Tuesday at the White House Oval Office where DeSantis announced he will unveil the first phase of reopening Florida on Wednesday.

Coasts around Florida grapple with the logistics of resuming beach life amid the pandemic.

Episode 27 features Peaceful Paths Executive Director, Dr. Theresa Beachy. She spoke about how the domestic violence center is working through restrictions to help survivors during these trying times. This podcast serves to provide updates on Florida's response to coronavirus, with a particular focus on north central Florida.

The trial opened in the dispute over Florida’s law requiring former felons to pay all fines and fees before they can register to vote.

In a Monday coronavirus briefing, Gov. Ron DeSantis revealed what reopening Florida hospitals may look like during a panel shared by Tampa General Hospital epidemiologists, medical staff and leaders.

Hear how they adapted, improvised, and ultimately overcame obstacles during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Disability Rights Florida sent a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis to instill anti-discrimination protections during the pandemic for persons with disabilities in healthcare treatment or in life-saving medical care.

Episode 26 features Florida teachers Emma Light, Diana Parfait, and Emil Kadhum. They spoke about how they adapted, improvised, and ultimately overcame obstacles quickly to keep their students on track during the COVID-19 pandemic. This podcast serves to provide updates on Florida's response to coronavirus, with a particular focus on north central Florida.

The industry has taken a body blow during the coronavirus epidemic.

The Florida Department of Health released updated numbers Friday morning about the coronavirus in the state. Here are some takeaways.

The many Floridians who lost their jobs in recent weeks have another chance at benefits.

Episode 25 features Maria Eunice, Director of Alachua County Public Schools Food and Nutritional Services. She rejoins the cast to discuss how much longer they can provide free meals, and what they're doing to help farmers and families in Alachua County. This podcast serves to provide updates on Florida's response to coronavirus, with a particular focus on north central Florida.

Students and those attempting to work from home face hardships related to internet speed and access during the coronavirus pandemic.

Members of the task force discussed hospitality and tourism, education and utilities.

Episode 24 features Cornelia Holbrook, Owner of Sweetwater Branch Inn in Gainesville. She discusses her partnership with the Climb For Cancer Foundation to help provide a place for families to stay while traveling for cancer treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic. This podcast serves to provide updates on Florida's response to coronavirus, with a particular focus on north central Florida.

Gov. Ron DeSantis' Re-Open Florida Task Force met for a second time Wednesday morning. Members of the task force discussed the work being done in subcommittees in a press conference call Wednesday afternoon. The task force plans to have a hesitant guide to re-opening Florida by Friday. 

Effects from the coronavirus could intensify domestic abuse, according to domestic violence victim advocate groups. 

Not one Newberry city employee has been laid off because of COVID-19. Some departments have taken on new roles during this crisis.

The Amazing Give Emergency Relief, using an online donation system, began March 19 and will continue until the end of this pandemic.

On the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day, is it time to consider rights for nature?

On the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day, is it time to consider rights for nature?

Episode 23 features Dr. Rosa West, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the University of Florida's Counseling and Wellness Center. She discusses what you can do at home to take care of your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. This podcast serves to provide updates on Florida's response to coronavirus, with a particular focus on north central Florida.

The last day of school for Marion County Public Schools will be June 1.

GRACE Marketplace has raised over $10,000 in an effort to help residents find housing, changed the spacing of beds and converted all meals to take-out in order to abide by the social distancing regulations recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention

On Friday, the task force will brief the governor on how to resume Florida's economy.