Local

Iche Nippy Dip Day on the way

The water’s chilling shock will be gone before you know it, just dive in and try not to think about it too much.  Iche Nippy Dip Day is upon us. Saturday morning, Ichetucknee Springs State Park is inviting visitors to usher in January with a brisk swim.  Registration starts at 9:30 a.m.
The private sector could lead the way in space exploration in the future, and Lake City looks to be strategically located to play an important role. The launch of a SpaceX vehicle is pictured here. (COURTESY SPACEX)

The private sector could lead the way in space exploration in the future, and Lake City looks to be strategically located to play an important role. The launch of a SpaceX vehicle is pictured here. (COURTESY SPACEX)

Does the road to space run through Lake City?

The Gateway to Florida — and beyond?  Fueled by private sector investments, the space industry is experiencing a renaissance that Lake City could capitalize on to become a logistics hub in the new race toward the final frontier, said Staz Guntek, a legislative assistant to state Rep. Chuck Brannan.

Knife attack leaves 1 hurt

Several people called 911 Tuesday night to report that a man was bleeding uncontrollably after he was repeatedly stabbed at a Fort White home, Columbia County deputies say.

Plastic straw ban on table for state

“Is plastic OK?” The question comes up at the end of every grocery shopping trip, but the choice may soon be out of consumers’ hands.  A bill filed in the Florida Senate would prohibit restaurants and stores statewide from selling or providing single-use plastic straws, as well as plastic bags.

Tourism officials pleased with new parcel

Tourism officials are working toward finalizing a $2 million land deal for a 500-acre property they aim to turn into a regional recreational and sports hub, though the county’s sports marketing chief says the specifics of the plan can’t be hammered out just yet.

High-speed chase leads to jail, drug charges added

A 42-year-old Lulu man was arrested Saturday morning after allegedly leading Lake City police officers on a high speed chase through town where he struck two vehicles, nearly hit police vehicles and drove into incoming traffic before he ran into a ditch in front of the Florida Credit Union building.

3 dead in local crashes

Three people have died in area car wrecks, including one early this morning, since Christmas. Matias Ault, 20, Lake City; Robert Flint, 76, Lake City; and an unidentified man were killed in separate crashes, according to FHP releases.