Local

‘Twerk fest’ spurs scrutiny of county policies

A Saturday night party at Lulu Community Center annoyed neighbors, broke several rules for using the venue and trashed the property, according to the management.

FGC scores STEM funds

The state has come through with funding for a new STEM building at Florida Gateway College, a pitch that faced an uphill battle in Tallahassee due to economic woes and an atmosphere of skepticism toward college construction projects in general.  Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a $92.

Cops seek clues in February murder case

A fatal shooting still has sheriff’s detectives looking for answers months after the incident.

Walk a mile in my shoes, says deputy

Matthew Montemurno can imagine what it’s like to be in another person’s shoes, even if that person is barefoot.  The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputy was working out Tuesday afternoon at his gym, Crossfit 1075.  “I’d just gotten off work,” said Montemurno, who goes by Monte.

Coke-snorting group robbed; suspect jailed

A local man was arrested Thursday in connection with an armed robbery from April stemming from drug-fueled get-together, deputies say.

Bars shut down again due to spike in covid-19 cases

Recently reopened bars have been ordered to stop serving alcohol for on-site consumption because of a spike in coronavirus cases, particularly among young adults, and non-compliance with social distancing rules.

Online, FGC is No. 7 in nation, also second best in state

Florida Gateway College is among the best places in the country to get an education online, according to a newly published guide. FGC ranked second best community college in the state and seventh best nationwide for online learning, says Optimal’s Guide to Online Schools.

Suwannee sees 19th death from coronavirus

The death of a 70-year-old man in Suwannee County has been linked to covid-19, the 19th fatality there. The Florida Department of Health released the information Thursday.  As of Thursday afternoon, Suwannee County had 360 confirmed cases of the virus, 50 of which resulted in hospitalization.

Gun thefts probed by LCPD

Multiple firearms were stolen during a string of vehicle burglaries under investigation by the Lake City Police Department. The department is asking anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be reported to 386-752-4343.

Deputy a better choice than an angry dog

A man who bears the name of an infamous bandit tried to out-pedal the law on a bicycle early Thursday morning, but called it quits after he was bitten by a dog during the attempted escape, according to a Columbia County Sheriff’s Office report.  Jesse James Hoagland, 31, of North U.S.