Regional

Suwannee board eyes land purchase for fire station

LIVE OAK — A new site for a new fire station in Suwannee County could be finalized this week. On Tuesday night, the Suwannee County Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the purchase of real property.

Plaintiffs seek to speed up redistricting case

Civil rights groups and other plaintiffs Thursday asked the Florida Supreme Court to speed up a congressional redistricting case to try to resolve it in time for the 2024 elections.

2024 will bring new hurricane forecast cone

By Roger Simmons Orlando Sentinel This hurricane season, the National Hurricane Center’s forecast cone is going to look a little different — and that should mean better information.

Changes expected in social media bill

TALLAHASSEE — House Speaker Paul Renner said lawmakers will revise a bill aimed at keeping children off social media, as state leaders prepare to try to fend off expected legal challenges. The House overwhelmingly passed the bill (HB 1) last week, but Gov.

SHS: No sports canvassing for funds

LIVE OAK — Suwannee High School does not have students going out into the community trying to raise money for athletics during the school day.

Quinn, Shane performing at Music Park

LIVE OAK — It’s February, spring will soon be here and the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is bringing Stephen Quinn back to the stage. After Quinn performs at the park’s Music Hall on Friday night, country artist Wyatt Shane will entertain Saturday night. Both will perform from 7-10 p.m.

State, House face budget differences

TALLAHASSEE — With differences on issues such as funding prisons, a health-care plan and home-hardening grants, Senate and House budget committees on Wednesday approved spending plans that top $115 billion.

SRWMD recognizes Prescribed Fire Awareness Week

LIVE OAK — Prescribed fire helps maintain natural resources while reducing the risk of wildfires. To bring awareness to the benefits of prescribed fire for land management, the Suwannee River Water Management District recognizes this week as Prescribed Fire Awareness Week.

Duke seeks base rate hike

TALLAHASSEE — Duke Energy Florida will seek state approval of a three-year plan that would increase customers’ base electric rates and expand solar-power generation. Duke on Wednesday notified the Florida Public Service Commission that it will seek to increase base rates by $596 million in 2025.

Pay hikes sought for state leaders

Florida’s next governor and other state leaders would get sizable pay bumps under a House budget proposal that advanced Wednesday.