Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Correctional officers, much like dispatchers, are an important part of America’s justice system that get little recognition. These unsung heroes are tasked with a myriad of duties, all of…
Category: Community News
Lafayette County Farm Bureau hosts 2024 Multi-County Legislative Dinner
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Senators, representatives and members of Congress filled Lafayette High School’s cafeteria on Thursday, April 25, for the 2024 Florida Farm Bureau Multi-County Legislative Dinner. The event, hosted by Lafayette…
The Arc North Florida hosts first Town Hall meeting in Mayo
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com On Thursday, April 25, The Arc North Florida, Inc., held its first Town Hall meeting in Mayo to evaluate what needs Lafayette County has and how the organization can…
Florida Sheriff Youth Ranches: Building resilient futures for at-risk youth
Bea Coker reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Since its inception in 1957, the Florida Sheriff Youth Ranches has been a beacon of hope for at-risk youth across the state, including here in Suwannee County. Founded by…
Stamp Out Hunger with the NALC annual food drive
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Each year, on the second Saturday in May, letter carriers across America take to their routes for a generous mission – the National Association of Letter Carriers’ (NALC) Stamp…
Area bikers to help fellow Veteran
Rick Patrick reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com In an effort to help improve the quality of life for a fellow Veteran, the Third District of the American Legion Riders is holding its Second Annual Bike Giveaway…
Inaugural Wildflower Festival blossoms in spring splendor
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Individuals from all over were able to experience the vibrance of spring at the inaugural Wildflower Festival, hosted by Suwannee Festivals, on Saturday, April 27. The festival took place…
Planning on planting native plants? My top 10 favorites
Carolyn Saft Contributor Spring is filled with so many plant options that it is hard to choose just a few. For those of you who are looking for native plants, pollinator plants…
Rotary Club of Branford establishes endowment scholarship for graduating Buccaneers
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com The Rotary Club of Branford has finalized an Endowment Agreement with Florida Gateway College (FGC) to establish the Rotary Club of Branford endowment scholarship. Facilitated by Lee Pinchouck, Executive…
Meet your neighbor spotlight: Maria Knapp, Executive Vice President of Florida Sheriff Youth Ranches
Bea Coker reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com Maria Knapp, a beacon of leadership and compassion in Live Oak and Suwannee County, serves as the Executive Vice President of the Florida Sheriff Youth Ranches organization, right here…
Branford Public Library hosts Autism Awareness Information Event
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com On Monday, April 15, the Branford Public Library hosted an Autism Awareness Information Event in partnership with Early steps, the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System, the University of…
Suwannee County Fire Chief Eddie Hand announces retirement
Bea Coker reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com After 25 years of dedicated service, Eddie Hand, Fire Chief of Suwannee County Fire and Rescue (SCFR), has announced his retirement, effective Hand’s decision to retire marks the end…
Be aware of sexual abuse — Know the facts
Heather Ainsley reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Every nine minutes, that victim is a child. These startling statistics are compiled every five years by RAINN.org, also known as…
Local law enforcement raise awareness for child abuse
Christian Peterson reporter.riverbendnews@gmail.com The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), Live Oak Police Department (LOPD) and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) have all joined together with the University of Florida Child Advocacy Center…
Eighth Annual Suwannee River Catfish Festival makes a splash in Branford
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Catfish lovers from all around found themselves reeled into one of the largest festivals in southern Suwannee County on Saturday, April 13. Individuals flooded onto the Suwannee River Greenway…
Jam out with the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park’s free kids camp
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com Several times each year, the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park hosts an enriching three-day musical extravaganza tailored to youth aged 5 to 17. Nestled amidst the serene backdrop…
Fulfill your gridiron dreams with Suwannee Youth Football
Danny Federico reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com It’s that time of year again! Suwannee Youth Football and Cheer will be kicking off the youth football season on Saturday, April 27, with its annual Skills Camp. From…