Florida Farmers Get Help, Watch Out for Bacteria, and a Gorgeous Weekend Ahead

Happy Friday, Gainesville.

Is it just me, or does this feel like the 3rd Friday of the week so far? After all that rain, there’s sunshine in our future and its shaping up to be a beautiful weekend!

🌡️ Friday: High is 79°F and Low is 57° with 4% chance of rain ☀️ , Saturday: High is 82 °, low of 60° with 7% chance of rain 🌞 Enjoy the gorgeous weather!

📰 The General Scoop:

• 🧑‍🌾 Help is on the Way for Florida Farmers! Florida farmers have had a rough ride lately, with three hurricanes hitting the state in a short time. Hurricane Debby alone caused an estimated $100-200 million in damage (which we wrote about previously), and while folks were still assessing losses from Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton came knocking. Thankfully the USDA is planning to help! Secretary Tom Vilsack says they’re in it for the long haul, ensuring farmers have the support they need, from crop insurance to wind protection. Here’s a list of all the programs available for farmers. Payments could start rolling in by November, and the USDA is adding staff to speed up applications. For those feeling the emotional toll, there’s also a hotline offering support at 1-888-381-7243.

• 🌊 Watch Out for Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Florida Waters UF researchers are raising alarms about a flesh-eating bacteria that could make a comeback after recent storms. This bacteria, vibrio parahaemolyticus and vibrio vulnificus, thrives in warm waters and gets stronger during hurricanes and floods. If you’re planning to volunteer in storm surge areas, certainly be cautious! These bacteria can be deadly, especially for people who eat raw or undercooked seafood or have open wounds while in seawater. In fact, after Hurricane Ian in 2022, 38 cases were reported, and tragically, 11 people died. Dr. Norman Beatty from UF says if you’re out helping with storm recovery, be careful! Protect your skin and avoid contact with storm surge water if you’ve got any open cuts. Stay safe, GNV! 🌊

📰 Business News

• 🍔 Mac's Drive-Thru Retirement: Sighle Williams, the longest-serving employee at Mac's Drive-Thru, is set to retire today! She’ll be receiving all of the revenue from her last day on the job, marking the end of a long career with one of Gainesville's iconic establishments​. So if you’re craving Macs, today would be a great day to go!

🏅 Sports News:

• 🏈 The Gators face the 8th ranked Tennessee Volunteers in Knoxville on Saturday, kicking off a 6 game stretch of some of the toughest SEC foes. Catch the Gators on ESPN at 7 PM.

• 🏐 Gator Volleyball is back tonight at 7 PM in the O’Dome against SEC opponent, Mississippi State.

📆 Things to Do:

Friday October 11

Florida Volleyball vs. Mississippi State Come cheer on the Florida Gators as they get back in action in the O’Dome tonight at 7 PM. Tickets are $7!

Saturday October 12

Trunk or Treat at Star Martial Arts (3 PM -5 PM) If you’re already in the Halloween spirit, grab your costume and head to Star Martial Arts for all kinds of spooky fun.

Oktoberfest at Tioga (2 PM - 8 PM) This is Town of Tioga’s inaugural Oktoberfest in collaboration with World of Beer. It’ll be a family friendly event with live music, great beers, and fun games.

Sunrise Hike at Sweetwater Wetlands (7:20 AM) Grab a light sweater and head to Sweetwater Wetlands to kick off your Saturday with a relaxing hike followed by a short guided meditation.

Sunday October 13

Fall Plant Swap and Sale at Swamphead (1 PM - 5 PM) Gainesville’s favorite Plant Swap & Sale is back at Swamp Head Brewery this Sunday and the weather should be gorgeous. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or just looking to spruce up your home, this is the perfect opportunity to trade your favorite plants and shop for some unique finds.

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Have a great weekend!
Lauren
Swamptown Scoop