Erica Rodriguez Merrell is a co-owner of Wild Iris, the last feminist bookstore in Florida. She has shaped Wild Iris over the last few years into a radically inclusive community, providing everything from safe spaces to emotional support.
Read More »The Couple That Gave Up Their Home To Serve the Homeless
Ken and Wendy Kebrdle left the American dream behind to help the homeless in Ocala. After serving as missionaries in Romania, they began holding training classes at churches to teach members about relationally-driven service as a substitute for handouts.
Read More »10 CAN Eases War Veteran Back Into Civilian Life
Three-time war veteran Jeremy Johnson suffers from spinal cord injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. 10 CAN, a Christian Adventure Network that works to help veterans and first responders, is easing him back into civilian life.
Read More »Local Lives: The Hot Sauce Boss From Lacrosse
The self-proclaimed 'Wizard of Odd' found a passion for selling hot sauces at farmer's markets. Joe Di Vito found the career he loves after 40 years, and takes pleasure in telling stories — including how one of his sauces was inspired by a visit from a UFO.
Read More »Wheelchair-Bound Woman Rides Again With A Little Help From HOPE
Lauren Ault was diagnosed with a brain stem tumor seven years ago. Now, despite being wheelchair-bound, she has found independence with HOrses Helping PEople.
Read More »Third-Wave Coffee Culture Popularity Rises In Gainesville
Know Where Coffee opened its doors this month. The new establishment proves the third-wave coffee culture is rising in popularity, especially across local coffee shops in Gainesville.
Read More »Entrepreneur’s Local Business Ventures Stem From Worldwide Travels
Local entrepreneur Bill Bryson discusses his latest business venture, Crane Ramen, a craft noodle shop that opened in downtown Gainesville in December. Bryson and Crane Ramen co-owner, Fred Brown, saw a market for a ramen restaurant in Gainesville, and they get most of their food from local vendors.
Read More »Police Departments Look to Advance with Cameras
While some area law enforcement are struggling to find funding for officer body cameras, Ocala Police Department has been using them since 2009 for specialized units.
Read More »Gainesville Composts To Divert Waste
More than 20 organizations have joined Gainesville's Compost on a mission to divert waste from landfills and from it create valuable soil feed.
Read More »Celebrating Veterans Day Through A World War II Survivor
Saturday afternoon floats, fire trucks, tractors, motorcycles, and walkers led veterans through Inglis for the 2014 Levy County Veterans Day Parade.
Read More »