Regional

Senators ‘not to opine’ on redistricting proposals

With initial redistricting proposals slated to be released Wednesday, Senate leaders are urging lawmakers not to discuss how the maps could affect their political fortunes.

Cornbread festival weathers soggy launch

WELLBORN — Even with dreary weather, the inaugural Wellborn Cornbread Festival was a hit Saturday. Thanks in part to the cold temperatures Saturday morning, the festival sold out of the chili and cornbread entered into the cookoff.

Escape scheme lands two more in jail

LIVE OAK — The escape of a Suwannee County Jail inmate has now led to two more arrests. The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office arrested Oscar Ray Thomas, 65, and Anitra Danelle Baker, 37, on Monday morning for their roles in Antonio Canady’s escape from jail on Oct. 14.

Suwannee County brokers Rural Deal of the Year

LIVE OAK — Facing the closure of one of its largest employers, Suwannee County officials stepped up to broker the Rural Deal of the Year.

Cops: Suspect attempted to drown K-9 officer after pursuit

Fleeing from authorities early Friday morning, a K-9 officer wasn’t a Macclenny man’s best friend. Trying to drown K-9 Arko, though, did lead to an extra charge for 36-year-old Phillip Givens. After being stopped around 2:40 a.m. Friday for not having a tag attached to his blue motorcycle on U.S.

Carpenter named grand marshal of LO parade

In addition to honoring veterans, Suwannee County will also be “Remembering 9/11” during Veterans Day festivities. The theme for the annual Veterans Day parade, which is set to begin at 9 a.m. Thursday is “Remembering 9/11” with prizes for the top three float entries in the parade.

Brannan seeks funding for LC, Suwannee Co.

As they look to help others, the City of Lake City and Suwannee County are seeking some assistance too. Rep.

SOSMP set to host two young musicians

LIVE OAK — The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak is set to host a pair of entertainers over the weekend. LeeAnn Purvis and Payten Tison are both scheduled to make appearances at the SOSMP. Purvis will perform on Friday, Nov. 5, and Tison will appear the following night.

Florida Forests Week celebrates importance of state’s forest land

TALLAHASEE — Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried and the Florida Forest Service, in partnership with the Florida Forestry Association, are highlighting Florida Forests Week this week to recognize the importance and benefits of Florida’s 17.

State gets another bump in tax revenues

TALLAHASSEE — Florida budget writers got some good news Wednesday, as general-revenue tax collections topped expectations for September by 15.7%, due in part to people continuing to spend down savings amassed during the covid-19 pandemic.