Monday, June 30, 2025

Illiteracy’s hidden toll on Alachua County families

Rising illiteracy rates leave families trapped in cycles of poverty and limit children’s chances of success

By Logan McBride Alligator Staff Writer

Nearly one in five adults in Alachua County can’t read well enough to navigate daily life –part of a rising tide of illiteracy that has quietly surged across the country in recent years.

The problem is mirrored nationally, with American adults who scored in the lowest rates of literacy proficiency climbing nine percentage points in six years.

The UF Lastinger Center for Learning is a research hub under UF’s College of Education. It researches solutions to improve teaching, learning and child care.

Republicans resume focus on UF presidential search

FLORIDA GOP ASKS UF TO CONDUCT AN OPEN PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH

By Maria Avlonitis Alligator Staff Writer

As UF’s third presidential search in three years looms, one word has become ubiquitous: politics.

Sen. Rick Scott and Reps. Greg Steube and Byron Donalds wrote a letter to the UF Board of Trustees June 18 asking for an open and transparent search process following the secret search that took place over the past several months.

Santa Ono, the University of Michigan’s former president, was announced as the sole finalist of the UF presidential search May 4, surprising

students and faculty. Ben Sasse, UF’s previous president, was the sole finalist of his search, which also took place behind the scenes.

Despite Ono receiving full support from the UF Board of Trustees, the Florida Board of Governors rejected the candidate in a 10-6 vote June 3.

Within a month of his announcement as the sole finalist, Ono received a wave of conservative backlash for his past support of diversity initiatives.

Scott, Steube and Donalds’ letter cited concerns about Ono, which “would have been dealt with long before this month’s vote” if UF had done a transparent search, the letter said.

An open search process that publicly considers multiple candidates is “what led Florida to [become] the

top state for higher education almost a decade ago,” they wrote.

Most Florida university presidents earn a $1 million salary package, but Ono’s package was valued at around $3 million. Students, families and Florida taxpayers should be involved in the process because they help fund the compensation packet, the letter wrote.

The search is confidential because of Senate Bill 520, a law Gov. Ron DeSantis signed in 2022, which exempted public records requirements for any personal identifying information of applicants to be president of a state university.

The Florida House of Representatives tried to reverse the law with a 104-8 vote for House Bill 1321 in

SEE PRESIDENT, PAGE 4

The Lastinger Center’s Comprehensive Literacy Needs Assessment gathered data from more than 1,300 Alachua County community members, including educators, students and parents. The report compiled nine months of independent study, in addition to state and nationwide studies and Alachua County Public Schools data.

The report’s results detail how illiteracy can damage an adult's social and financial wellbeing and professional mobility. Alachua County organizations are attempting to close the gaps.

Barbara Reardon, a literacy coordinator for the Alachua County Library District, said adults face a variety of barriers navigating literacy. As adults get older, it becomes more difficult to build literacy skills and more challenging to reach illiterate adults who may struggle economically, she said.

Supporting illiterate adults can be challenging for organizations like the Alachua County Library District, she said, because it’s harder to get information to someone who struggles with

reading. Families with illiterate parents can also impact their children’s literacy, she added.

A study by the National Institutes of Health found that a mother’s literacy level is the greatest determinant of her child’s academic success and literacy level. The National Library of Medicine also found low-income families have fewer parent-child verbal interactions.

“This is certainly a cyclical problem,” Reardon said. “If we have adults in a family that have low literacy, then it’s much more difficult for those children to get the support and the exposure to reading.”

According to the Lastinger Center report, 64% of adult learners nationwide are employed and parents of schoolaged children. “Adult learners” refers to individuals age 16 and older who didn’t complete K-12 education or possess a high school diploma but have gaps in educational skills like reading, math and spoken English.

Alison Keel, a 62-year-old Gainesville resident, is a volunteer tutor for the Alachua County Library District’s adult literacy program.

The free program offers oneon-one tutoring to adults struggling with literacy tasks. Keel has volunteered with the program since 2022.

Improving literacy isn’t as simple as someone’s ability to read, she said, but also extends to life experience.

Some of her students may be able to decode words through phonics, she said, but if they have no context for what the word means, it becomes a “nonsense” word, where students know it’s a real word but lack real-world context, making it difficult to understand what

Dylan Speicher // Alligator Staff

A sign at the lookout on the Bolen Bluff trail at Payne’s Prairie warns guests about preserve hours on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Read more on pg. 5.

Today’s Weather

SweetBerries closes in

Newell Hall, The Paper Bag to open in its place

The new restaurant will have its soft opening June 30

By Victoria Riccobono

Alligator Contributing Writer

After three years on the University of Florida campus, SweetBerries Eatery and Frozen Custard in Newell Hall closed its doors on April 29.

In its place, The Paper Bag, a sandwich deli, will provide a new menu for students to enjoy as they fuel up between studying and classes.

Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services is the official food provider for campus dining and oversees all locations, including SweetBerries.

Jane Osmond, co-owner of SweetBerries, explained that it became a hassle to operate on campus.

“We felt it was a little bit difficult to operate [on campus] because Chartwells and the University of Florida administration wanted certain things that we didn’t necessarily want to do,” Osmond said.

While the Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services staff was nice, Osmond said the company “dictated the hours.” Chartwells also wanted the Newell Hall location to serve breakfast when SweetBerries’

main storefront doesn’t offer it.

“They worked with us a little bit, but they wanted us to be open on certain days that we knew would be a money-loser,” she said. “They needed to have food service in the area for the students, so we agreed to stay open.”

Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services couldn’t comment in time for publication.

Running the campus location was a financial struggle, Osmond said, especially during holidays and breaks when the majority of students aren’t in Gainesville.

Alongside her sister and restaurant co-owner, Janice, Osmond wanted to prioritize the main store, located on 619 NW Fifth Ave., instead of the shop on campus.

“My sister and I are in our 60s, we are tired,” Osmond said. “Having two stores was a burden because we are both still very involved in the business.”

The Paper Bag will be the new sandwich deli at the hub of campus. Richard Sterck, the owner of The Paper Bag, said he always dreamed of opening a campus location.

“When I started this up three years ago, I had a couple of

Have an event planned? Add it to the alligator’s online calendar: alligator.org/calendar

thoughts and dreams, but one was definitely getting on campus,” Sterck said. “The fact that it was in less than three years was that dream becoming a reality.”

The Paper Bag opened its first location in 2022. Newell Hall will be its third location across Gainesville. Despite only having six weeks to open the new location, opening the first two stores made the process easier, Sterck said.

“With everything in life, you grow and learn from your mistakes,” he said. “So this has been the easiest of the process. I’ve got my list down, I've got my contact people down, I’ve got everything that I know I need.”

Sterck hopes that the deli on campus will become a place where students and faculty can wind down and forget about their problems, he said.

Sterck adjusted the restaurant’s Newell Hall menu to keep up with the fast pace of campus. To cut wait times and cater to student preferences, some menu items from the other two locations won’t be available at the Newell Hall location, and some sandwiches were simplified.

He said a lot of students prefer a “simple turkey and provolone on a ciabatta,” so common preferences were implemented into the campus menu.

“Our motto is ‘Changing lives one sandwich at a time,’” he said. “No matter if an exam is on your mind, you’re missing your mom, missing your dad, missing your little sister, brother, whatever. When you're coming into the deli, hopefully we’re going to change [those feelings] for a second.”

Ivana Hernandez, a UF alumna, said that while she’ll miss having a SweetBerries on campus, she’s excited for The Paper Bag to open. She thinks students will love it, she said.

“Newell Hall was my go-to study spot, so I ate at SweetBerries a lot,” Hernandez said. “The Paper Bag is my favorite sandwich place in Gainesville, so I am very happy for them.”

The Paper Bag at Newell Hall is expected to open June 30, the first day of the UF Summer B semester.

Victoria Riccobono is a UF journalism junior.

352-376-4458 NEWSROOM:

Editor-In-Chief

Engagement Managing Editor

Digital Managing Editor

Metro Editor

University Editor El Caimán Editor

Opinions Editor

Sports Editor

Assistant Sports Editor

Multimedia Editor

Assistant Multimedia Editor the Avenue Editor

Editorial Board

DISPLAY ADVERTISING

The Independent Florida Alligator is a student newspaper serving the University of Florida, published by a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) educational organization, Campus Communications Inc., P.O. Box 14257, Gainesville, Florida, 32604-2257. The Alligator is published Monday mornings, except during holidays and exam periods. The Alligator is a member of the Newspaper Association of America, National Newspaper Association, Florida Press Association and Southern University Newspapers. Not officially associated with the University of Florida Published by Campus Communications Inc., of Gainesville, Florida

Delia Rose Sauer, drosesauer@alligator.org

Bailey Diem, bdiem@alligator.org

Kairi Lowery, klowery@alligator.org Zan Valere, zvalere@alligator.org

Avery Parker, aparker@alligator.org

Sara-James Ranta, sranta@alligator.org Avery Parker, aparker@alligator.org

Noor Sukkar, nsukkar@alligator.org

Max Bernstein, mbernstein@alligator.org

Luke Adragna, ladragna@alligator.org

Sydney Johnson, sjohnson@alligator.org

Kade Sowers, ksowers@alligator.org

Copy Desk Chief Jin-Hee Lee, jin-heelee@alligator.org

Delia Rose Sauer, Bailey Diem, Zan Valere, Kairi Lowery

352-376-4482

Advertising Office Manager Sales Representatives Cheryl del Rosario, cdelrosario@alligator.org Paige Montero, Sydney Sesaldo, Simone Simpson, JP Fournier, Jasmine Chavez, Faith Shimick, Yaxel Valladares

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

352-373-3463

Classified Advertising Manager Ellen Light, elight@alligator.org

BUSINESS

352-376-4446

Comptroller Delia Kradolfer, dkradolfer@alligator.org

Bookkeeper Cheryl del Rosario, cdelrosario@alligator.org

Administrative Assistant Ellen Light, elight@alligator.org

ADMINISTRATION

352-376-4446

General Manager Shaun O'Connor, soconnor@alligator.org

President Emeritus C.E. Barber, cebarber@alligator.org

SYSTEMS

IT System Engineer Kevin Hart

PRODUCTION

Production Manager

Namari Lock, nlock@alligator.org

Publication Manager Deion McLeod, dmcleod@alligator.org

Got something going on? Want to see it on this page? Send an email with “What’s Happening” in the subject line to engagement@alligator.org. To request publication in the next day’s newspaper, please submit entries before 5 p.m. Please model your submissions after the above events and keep them to 150 words or fewer. Improperly formatted “What’s Happening” submissions may not appear in the paper. Press releases will not appear in the paper.

Subscription Rate: Full Year (All Semesters) $75 The Alligator offices are located at 2700 SW 13th St. © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. No portion of The Alligator may be reproduced in any means without the written consent of an officer of Campus Communications Inc.

The Alligator strives to be accurate and clear in its news reports and editorials. If you find an error, please call our newsroom at 352-376-4458 or email editor@alligator.org

Michael Goston // Alligator Staff

The Paper Bag Deli is opening a satellite location on Stadium Rd replacing Sweetberries on campus location. The new shop anticipates customers on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Analyzing Alachua County’s literacy needs

from pg. 1

they’re reading.

Many students can sound out and read words, but some can’t visualize them, she added.

Reading is often a visual experience, where people picture the words or descriptions they’re reading. Those facing literacy challenges may be too unfamiliar with the words to visualize them, she said.

Some of her students may lack context for new words, especially if they originate outside of where they lived or grew up, which can also limit their ability to comprehend, she said.

One of her biggest achievements as a tutor is seeing her students increase their self-esteem as they gain literacy skills. She’s watched them “make better decisions” as their self-confidence grows and they invest more in their education, she said.

“Once a student can see that they learned, that somebody is investing in them, that they’re getting smarter…when they feel that they can learn, they have more self-esteem,” Keel said.

Seeing her students face their literacy gaps and participate in the program is admirable, Keel said. She wonders why the adults she’s worked with lacked resources growing up, she added.

“I think if they can work this hard now, then why didn’t they get this in school?” she said. “These are hard workers, and they’re clearly self-motivated, so I feel like

the school systems let them down.”

Socioeconomic status can serve as a barrier for some experiencing illiteracy. Studies show low-income students are more likely to experience educational inequality, and the rate is higher in minority groups.

Since public schools are funded by local taxes, those in low-income areas will often attend low-income schools, which experience a deficiency of resources and teachers.

One Alachua County organization, PEAK Literacy, seeks to limit literacy disparities in low-income children.

Vincent Hampton, a 34-year-old Gainesville resident, was one of PEAK Literacy’s original board members. Multiple Alachua County communities need more support in navigating illiteracy, especially low-income communities, he said.

Alachua County had a poverty rate of 19% in 2023, which was 7% higher than the statewide rate.

County literacy rates might be slightly higher than statewide rates because of the county’s proximity to a prominent university like UF, Hampton said.

Low-income communities still may be inadequately addressed and face stigmas surrounding illiteracy, he added.

“It kind of goes back to that historical and generational trauma that I see on a daily basis,” Hampton said. “It’s multilayered. There’s trauma, so that means there’s usually shame. It’s hard to acknowledge.”

In Alachua County, Black students had significantly larger achievement gaps than

white students in K-12 English Language Arts during the 2023-24 school year, according to the Florida Department of Education.

Statewide, there is a 24-percentagepoint gap in language arts achievement, where 64% of white students score a level 3 or above, compared to 40% of Black students.

The gap widens to 42 percentage points in Alachua County, where 70% of white students and 28% of Black students achieve a level 3 or better.

According to the Lastinger Center report, the county’s economically disadvan-

taged students had lower on-time graduation rates than economically disadvantaged students statewide.

He compared individuals facing issues of illiteracy and generational trauma to going through therapy. If someone goes into therapy closed off, they’ll struggle to heal effectively, he said. Communities facing illiteracy challenges need to be empowered to connect with each other, he added.

“It’s not just about an organization coming in and being the savior, it’s about empowering our community to help itself,” Hampton said. “The best sustainable development comes from empowering the community within.”

@logandmcbride lmcbride@alligator.org

Michael Goston // Alligator Staff

The Millhopper Library helps the community improve literacy rates by staying open seven days a week to the public, pictured Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Transparency in university presidential searches

PRESIDENT, from pg. 1

April, but the bill died in the Senate.

Scott, Steube and Donalds said it seems the law “is being abused by creating an unfair system.”

UF did not respond for comment on the status of the presidential search and whether the search committee will take the state legislature’s letter into consideration.

The head of the presidential search committee and co-chair of the UF Board of Trustees, Rahul Patel, defended the closed process on multiple occasions.

The search for UF’s 14th president attracted an impressive pool of candidates, including sitting presidents of major research universities, Patel wrote in a Tampa Bay Times opinions column May 6.

The candidates would only participate if they were guaranteed confidentiality unless they were named the sole finalist, he wrote.

“Sitting presidents face significant consequences at their current institutions if they are publicly identified as unsuccessful candidates in another search,” Patel wrote.

After Ono was rejected by the Board of Governors, the University of Michigan confirmed Ono resigned from university employment and won’t return to a faculty position.

The red trend

UF’s search reflects an ongoing trend in the politicization of Florida’s higher education and DeSantis’ influence on it.

The governor didn’t back Ono despite initial support and didn’t comment following his rejection.

Some of DeSantis’ allies have been confirmed across Florida universities. Five of the state’s 12 public universities will be led by former Republican lawmakers or lobbyists.

The Board of Governors unanimously confirmed Jeanette Nuñez as the president of Florida International University and Marva Johnson as the president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University June 18.

Nuñez was DeSantis’ lieutenant governor and a former state representative. She has served as FIU’s interim president since February, after DeSantis’ office directly contacted the FIU Board of Trustees Chair Roger Tovar about giving her the job.

Johnson’s appointment drew the most controversy because her political ties run deep. She was first appointed to the Florida Board of Education by former Gov. Rick Scott and reappointed by DeSantis. She worked on the board for eight years.

Students and faculty questioned Johnson’s experience in higher education. Her ties to DeSantis sparked protests across the campus, and more

than 18,000 people signed a petition opposing her nomination before she was confirmed.

Elyza Kates, a 20-year-old FAMU journalism junior, said she felt disappointed by Johnson’s confirmation because her resume doesn’t have any university-related experience.

“She has no experience being an educator — that's what we're concerned about,” Kates said.

“You're putting someone with no experience in a very big position.”

Johnson’s contract includes a base salary of $650,000, only $200,000 of which will be paid by the state.

“Who needs that much money to be a president?” Kates said. “When you check the history of how much they were paying our former presidents, you'll see how crazy that is.”

It’s a scary time to be a student right now, she said, and it’s hard seeing a Black woman run a historically Black university while supporting DeSantis and Donald Trump, knowing that FAMU’s values don't align with their agenda.

“[FAMU] has somebody who agrees with the man who's dismantling the same Department of Education she's trying to work for,” Kates said. “I can’t get behind that.”

Manny Diaz Jr., who will be stepping down from his role on the Florida Board of Governors, was confirmed by the governors to serve as

interim president of the University of West Florida. Only one governor, Eric Silagy, voted against Diaz due to his proposed salary.

DeSantis recommended Diaz’s appointment as interim president of UWF. Diaz has served in the Florida legislature since 2012.

Both Nuñez and Diaz lack terminal degrees, and Johnson has no experience as a university administrator. Despite Ono’s wealth of administrative experience as the former president of three universities, the Board of Governors favored political pasts over academia.

What does it mean for other players?

The University of South Florida began its presidential search Feb. 20 following the resignation of Rhea Law, who had served as president since being appointed as interim president in 2021.

USF previously retained the services of SP&A Executive Search, a highly regarded firm that conducted USF’s last presidential search, according to the university.

The boutique woman- and minority-owned SP&A Executive Search was also hired by UF for its presidential searches that produced Ono and Sasse.

According to the Oracle, USF

spokesperson Althea Johnson said the university’s search was expected to move forward once the firm “has completed their work” with UF. Ono’s rejection came as a shock to many. It was the first time the Board of Governors rejected a Florida university’s top presidential pick in its history.

USF announced June 20 that global consulting firm Korn Ferry would assist with the search. It omitted SP&A Executive Search from its presidential search website.

Althea Johnson said in an email USF is ready to move forward in its presidential search, and “sometimes consultants change and the university moves forward in the process.”

SP&A Executive Search was paid $292,702 for the presidential search that produced Sasse, according to the Tampa Bay Times. It’s not clear how much it is being paid for the current search.

There is no clear plan from the Presidential Search Advisory Committee on how it will continue, and Interim President Kent Fuchs’ contract is set to end July 31. There hasn’t been any indication Fuchs is extending his contract.

@MariaAvlonitis mavlonitis@alligator.org

Juleidi Machuca // Alligator Staff

Breaking barriers with a beat

UF’s first female drum captain seeks to inspire young women

By Swasthi Maharaj Alligator Staff Writer

The University of Florida Fightin’ Gator Marching Band has been keeping time since 1913, making it one of the oldest collegiate marching bands in Florida. Despite existing for over a century, no woman ever held the title of drum captain — until now.

Jillian Colosimo, a 22-yearold UF English and criminology alumna, made history as the first female drum captain and center snare of the band for the 2024-25 academic year.

Since graduating, Colosimo has inspired the next generation of musicians. She’s visited several high schools across the state, encouraging percussionists to follow their passions, become leaders and build their confidence.

“I didn’t realize the impact I would have on people,” Colosimo said. “I had gotten a message from a girl who had said that I was inspiring to her, and I really couldn’t even comprehend it.”

Colosimo picked up drumsticks for the first time in fifth grade and spent the next 11 years as a percussionist. She led her

high school drumline and knew she couldn’t give it up when she started college, she said.

Cecilia Rodriguez, a 22-yearold UF chemical engineering senior and Colosimo’s close friend, said she naturally fit in with Gator Band.

“[Colosimo] is someone who really values excellence and the tradition of Gator Band,” Rodriguez said.

In her senior year, Colosimo became the first woman to step into the drum captain and center snare roles.

The job isn’t just musical, she said, it’s leadership. The captain calls the opening cadence, taps the band in and sets the tempo, tone and discipline for a 30-member drumline.

Her role and its responsibilities taught her respect, Colosimo said.

“I wasn’t trying to control people,” she said. “I was treating them like family. If you’re not respecting people as a leader, no one’s going to respect you.”

Her leadership style didn’t go unnoticed.

In high school, she was always scared as drum captain, Colosimo said. She lacked confidence and

was unsure if people truly listened to her.

But Colosimo “broke out of her shell” in college, gaining confidence and ensuring her team felt comfortable under her leadership.

Hannah Williams, a band director at Lafayette High School and former UF drumline member, invited Colosimo to speak to her students.

“She had her goals laid out, asking great questions and knew how to connect,” Williams said. “I was taking notes while she was speaking.”

Williams said Colosimo’s excellence goes beyond technique.

“When I was at UF last year, there was a different vibe [with the band],” Williams said. “I asked someone what changed. ‘It’s because we have a woman [leading us] now.’”

Colosimo’s presence also reshaped dynamics inside the drumline.

Gracie Hartzog, a 20-year-old UF studio art senior and a cymbaline member of the drumline, said Colosimo was a good leader and fostered a space where women could thrive.

“[Colosimo] was a very sweet,

level-headed, natured captain,” Hartzog said.

Colosimo inspired her as a female member of the drumline, Hartzog said. The drum captain created a female-led supportive group chat with all the female drumline members, offering a safe space to talk or express concerns in a traditionally male-dominated environment.

“We had our largest section leader group of women last year than we had ever had,” Hartzog said.

She said she hopes Colosimo’s leadership will inspire other girls

to pursue leadership roles within the drumline.

Despite graduating from UF, Colosimo isn’t done inspiring those around her. She was offered a position as a percussion tech for student ensembles.

Colosimo said that she may be the first female captain, but she won’t be the last.

“I hope that this will allow people to step up more and realize that there is way more that you can do than you could possibly imagine,” Colosimo said.

@s_maharaj1611 smaharaj@alligator.org.

Proposed housing development near Paynes Prairie puts park’s future in question

RESIDENTS RAISED CONCERNS OVER THE PROJECT’S ENVIRONMENTAL VIABILITY

By Logan McBride Alligator Staff Writer

James Perran Ross has lived in Gainesville for nearly 45 years. With a background in wildlife science, Ross keeps a close eye on his local ecosystems, even conducting scientific studies near Alachua County’s Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

When Ross heard of a new housing development proposed off U.S. Highway 441 –adjacent to Paynes Prairie – the 75-year-old was concerned about the potential environmental impacts of the project.

“It couldn’t be less well considered,” Ross said. “It’s frankly a ridiculous idea.”

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a savanna larger than 20,000 acres that sits between Micanopy and Gainesville. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1974 and is home to two endangered species.

Maronda Homes LLC, a residential construction company, is requesting a zoning change, which would subdivide 73 acres of land in an effort to construct 134 new homes at 5321 SW 13th Street.

A zoning change is when a property’s land usage is altered, changing the rules for what can be built on a given piece of land. Since 1940, one of the largest threats to biodiversity is housing development. Housing growth near protected areas has increased at higher rates than average land development areas in the United States.

The recent development proposal sparked local debate about the protection of biodiverse land.

James Perran Ross has multiple concerns about the potential development, including runoff drainage. Water from lawns, gardens, driveways and roofs would likely drain directly into the prairie, posing environmental issues, he said.

Agricultural and urban runoff are major nonpoint sources of nutrients and contaminants to Florida waters.

The development would be located at the “narrowest point” between the prairie and developed infrastructure, he said, where the area is a pathway for wildlife to cross the northern and southern parts of the prairie when water levels are low.

“If the water level is high, you are going to completely block the passage of terrestrial animals back and forth,” Ross said. “In my view, the [environmental] buffers proposed are woefully inadequate.”

Smaller creatures, including toads and burrowing animals, would be negatively impacted by a development of the project’s density, Ross said.

While he thinks the development’s proposed environmental considerations are “slightly reassuring,” Ross said it isn’t enough.

Maronda Homes has been active in 10 states, including Florida, since 1972. It developed multiple communities within Alachua County, such as Newberry’s Avalon Woods.

The company hosted a virtual public workshop informing residents of the plan and fielding questions.

Alex Moldovan, Maronda Homes’ director of entitlements and development, said the company’s primary goal is to develop single-family homes. There are no current plans for duplexes or townhomes on the property, he said.

Around 24 of the 73 proposed acres would be developed, leaving the remaining acres as open space.

The proposed plan of two single units per acre is most comparable to the Oakmont community in northeast Gainesville.

The development site is located on the Idylwild and Serenola overlay, an Alachua County Growth Management Policy covering areas in the Idylwild neighborhood and the Serenola nature preserve.

The policy states the land must be conserved, managed and restored to preserve natural and cultural resources. The policy requires developers to reserve 50% of their sites for “open space,” where half of the land in the development must preserve the natural area.

Moldovan said Maronda’s development proposal designates over 60% to open space, which is above the minimum requirements.

The company intends to have zero wetland impacts and maintain natural vegetation, including existing trees, Moldovan said.

The company also intends to have environmental protections written into its development approvals, so guidelines are legally enforceable by state and federal agencies, Moldovan said.

“We’re really trying our darndest to be good environmental stewards here,” Moldovan said. “Any residential development goes through very, very stringent review.”

Jennifer Beck, a 56-year-old Micanopy resident, was concerned about the site location and its entry points during the online workshop. Two entry points were proposed for the property. Beck wondered if there would be traffic lights installed, especially considering the location, she said.

“That is a busy highway across the street from two schools,” Beck said.

To obtain traffic lights, the development would have to go through a civil plan review process and undergo analysis with the Florida Department of Transportation before traffic assessments could be made.

The development is categorized as a Residential Estate zoning proposal. Residential estate zoning designations are utilized for the construction of single-family homes in rural or suburban areas. Different forms of zoning, like commercial zoning, exist for different types of projects, such as the construction of a business.

If rezoning is approved, there would be a long period before construction on any potential project would begin. There are no scheduled Alachua County rezoning meetings as of June 29.

Maronda Homes said it would have to formulate a detailed project scope, receive state and federal environmental permits, review with the Florida Department of Transportation and hold public hearings within the community.

If approved, Maronda developers said there would likely be at least 18 months before construction could begin.

@LoganDMcBride lmcbride@alligator.org

Courtesy to The Alligator

Jillian Colosimo, Gator Band’s first female drumline captain, poses in front of “Big Boom,” the band’s signature bass drum.

www.alligator.org/section/the_avenue

FOOD & DRINK

Out at night and wanting a bite?

A GUIDE TO GAINESVILLE’S

LESSER-KNOWN LATE-NIGHT

EATS

By Delia Rose Sauer Avenue Staff Writer

As the sun sets and welcomes the night, crowds of students and locals gather in search of a good time. Bar regulars visit their local haunts, and students try to skip long lines outside of downtown clubs.

Venturing across Gainesville only takes up half an evening. The second half is greeted with growling stomachs and a craving night owls can only kick after the clock strikes midnight. Go-tos include Flacos downtown, Wawa on University Avenue and fast food options like Wingstop and Domino’s.

Instead of waiting in a line that feels like a three-hour-long lecture at a fast food joint you can find anywhere in the state, why not switch it up? Expand your horizons and explore different late-night spots with an enjoyable atmosphere and an even better menu.

Here are four choices, from quick stops to sit-downs, where you can satisfy your cravings after midnight.

Vecinos Cafe & Lounge

Neighboring Flaco’s, the Cuban sandwich shop on the corner of University Avenue and Second Street, Vecinos is the first and only exception on this list. Not strictly a restaurant, it’s a lounge that offers a variety of cocktails. With its low lighting, lounge chairs and thumping music, Vecinos is a fun hangout to bring a Media Noche or an arepa from next door, take a seat and enjoy the bar.

The bar also acts as a stage for comedy nights and local bands. The spot offers themed nights, including Noche de Perreo, Latin Nights and karaoke events. Despite the food options only being avail-

able at Flaco’s, Vecinos offers an escape from the long lines and a haven for Gainesville’s Latino community, who can often be excluded from Gainesville’s late-night scene.

Alfredo Morales, a 29-year-old bartender, has worked at Vecinos since September 2024. He began working there after one of the owners requested Spanish-speaking bartenders to ensure everyone could enjoy what Vecinos has to offer.

“We have a lot of people who don’t speak English,” Morales said.

“It’s a very stressful time to be an immigrant. Being a Latin bar opens that opportunity to people who don’t really have that space in a lot of other bars downtown.”

A number of college students frequent Flaco’s and the bar, but it’s also a hot spot for locals, who spend nights at the lounge, partaking in its different events or connecting with bartenders as they

Keep up with the Avenue on Twitter.

us

Caimán

mix drinks behind the counter, he said.

While Corona beers are popular among customers, Morales believes the margaritas are Vecinos’ signature cocktail. He also enjoys making piña coladas, his personal favorite.

“For the price point and the speed, our margaritas might be up there in the city,” he said.

The relationship between Vecinos and Flaco’s is symbiotic. People order food at Flaco’s then come into Vecinos to either take a seat or order a drink. Others hang out at the counter and go next door to end their night with some comforting Cuban food.

Vecinos is open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. but typically starts serving drinks around 9 p.m.

V Pizza & SideCar

A six-minute walk from Vecinos is V Pizza & SideCar, an Italian res-

taurant underneath the Hampton Inn & Suites Gainesville-Downtown. Offering a menu of Neapolitan pizza, sandwiches, pasta and cocktails, it’s a great option for late-night customers wanting to dine in and enjoy Italian cuisine.

With locations in Jacksonville, Orlando, St. Augustine and more, its Gainesville storefront has a peaceful vibe, with the kitchen open for curious eyes who want to see chefs hard at work. Between the chatter of families and friends basking in the orange glow of the restaurant to bartenders laughing along with customers, it offers a more intimate experience than the quick turnaround of other late-night stops.

Dakota Greenwood, V Pizza’s 25-year-old general manager, started as a prep cook and worked his way up to his current position. Late-night dining experiences like V Pizza allow Gainesville residents to relax and get a taste of Naples, Italy, in their neighborhood, he said.

“It allows them to not be stuck to something that’s open until 11,” Greenwood said.

He recommends the V Signature Wings, an order of five wood-oven fried chicken wings with the restaurant’s signature sauce made up of lemon pepper, garlic and rosemary. Other wing flavors include Calabrian chili marinade, buffalo and Hawaiian.

The Flyin’ Hawaiian Pizza, made with gouda, roasted pineapple and pancetta, is also a standout, Greenwood said. All the pizzas are made in a wood-oven imported from Italy using locally sourced wood to ensure a smoky, crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.

Beside the open kitchen rests V Pizza’s bar, SideCar. Justin Rorick, a 26-year-old bartender, said SideCar’s signature drink is named after the bar. It’s made with brandy, fresh lemon juice, dry curacao and simple syrup. He also enjoys making a painkiller, a cocktail consisting of rum, orange juice, pineapple juice and coconut cream.

“It’s very citrusy, sweet, with a little bit of punishment in there,” Rorick said.

El Partido Republicano de Florida pide una búsqueda abierta para el próximo presidente de UF. Leer más en la página 11.

Regulars like Reagan Moore, a 24-year-old UF alumna and employee at a National Pancreatic Organ Donor lab, appreciate the bartenders’ creative spin on classic cocktails. She orders her favorite item off the menu alongside her drink, V Pizza’s Layla’s Cavatappi and Meatballs with a side of flat bread.

Moore frequents V Pizza, typically on Fridays and Saturdays. While she loves the food, she said it’s the service that leads her to walk through its doors once a week.

“The people who work here are so funny and so attentive,” Moore said. “They get so excited to see you if you’re a regular. It’s adorable.”

She often brings her friends along, who sometimes share their meatballs with her. She’s even brought her brother, who also attends UF. He prefers the wings, but she also recommends the pancetta sandwich.

Between the ambiance and the friendly staff, she forgets she’s there to eat until her plate is brought out steaming hot, she said.

Because it’s a dine-in restaurant, the prices are usually between $12 and $20 for appetizers, personal pizzas and pastas.

“You’re not getting a cutesy, little dainty portion,” she said. “It’s definitely worth it.”

V Pizza is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant offers its full menu until midnight SideCar is open until midnight Monday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

The Top Despite being an iconic dinner spot in Gainesville, many people don’t realize the bar at The Top doesn’t close until 2 a.m.

If you visit The Top, there’s a chance you’ll have to join a waitlist or book a reservation in advance.

Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/the_avenue.

@_delia_rose_ drosesauer@alligator.org

Dylan Speicher // Alligator Staff

Gainesville has many late-night eat options, offering a variety of food options for students up at all hours of the night.

Messy, bold and deeply human: Lorde’s ‘Virgin’ album review

LORDE LAYS HERSELF BARE IN HER INTIMATE FOURTH STUDIO ALBUM

By Isis Snow Avenue Staff Writer

After a four-year wait, Lorde released her fourth studio album, “Virgin,” on June 27. She reintroduces herself in the release with a stark tonal shift from the warm wistfulness of her last album, “Solar Power,” to something colder, heavier and confrontational.

Released at the tail end of Pride Month, the album gives listeners a look inside Lorde’s journey embracing fluidity in her sound, gender and self-presentation. In a Rolling Stone interview, she hinted at a shifting relationship with her identity, describing herself as “in the middle, gender-wise.”

From the first song of the album, “Hammer,” it’s hard not to miss her connection to the LGBTQ+ community within her music.

“Some days, I’m a woman,” she sings. “Some days, I’m a man.”

The album is about transformation through discomfort, as she lets go of grace and beauty in favor of something more honest. Lorde knows she doesn’t have everything figured out, and that’s the point.

Her metamorphosis is felt through every second of “Virgin” in its raw, pulsing and deeply personal soundtrack.

“This album broke me apart and forged a new creature out of me,” Lorde said in an Instagram post.

The album’s name isn’t about traditional purity but rather being broken down and rebuilt in a raw beginning. It speaks to how confusing and messy sex can be in a way that feels honest instead of idealized.

The album’s first impression comes from its striking cover: a somber X-ray image of a pelvis adorned with a belt buckle, pants zipper and an IUD. The image is as off-kilter and evocative as the music itself, setting the tone before a single note plays.

The record opens with a single titled “Hammer,” pre-released on June 20. It begins with a rippling, reverberated beat that creates a rhythm that surrounds the listener.

It is disorienting and tense, stirring a sense of emotional claustrophobia that presses in on the ears. Lorde dynamically sings with the

MASSAGEYOGAARTMAKING

beat, seemingly a part of the mess but OK with it.

“I’m ready to feel like I don’t have the answers,” she sings in the chorus. Embracing uncertainty, the line finds power in vulnerability.

The feeling carries into the middle of the album with the track “Current Affairs.” The song merges themes of personal drama, like family, love and fame, with sexual agency, inherited pain and self-exposure.

The track begins with the jarring line, “You tasted my underwear, I knew we were fucked,” throwing the listener into something physical and emotionally loaded. Listeners can relate to the awkwardness of intimacy and new sexual experiences in this song.

The production is merged with a distorted sample of Dexta Daps’ song, “Morn-

ing Love,” which provides an unexpected dancehall sway. The song’s rhythm feels like standing on top of a surfboard, legs shaking as the waves methodically pulse underneath.

Hard-hitting lyrics like, “My bed is on fire, Mama, I’m so scared” repeat in the chorus, tapping into fear, shame and the ache of growing up too quickly.

The song’s heart lies in the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship and how the lingering pain quietly seeps into other parts of life.

The album wraps up with the song “David,” where Lorde ditches her hauntingly breathy tone and sings clearly and loudly. The softer instruments in the background swell and dip with the singer’s voice, creating gravitas.

Her words tell the story of misplaced trust, falling for the wrong person and ulti-

Creative Gator Day

Saturday, July 5, noon – 4 pm

Together with the Center for Arts and Medicine we invite new Summer B and all UF Students to some well-deserved self-care at the Harn Museum of Art exploring wellness, connection and relaxation.

No registration required. Admission is free.

mately finding the strength to let go. The lyrics, “I made you God ‘cause it was all that I knew how to do, but I don’t belong to anyone,” summarize the core of foregoing unhealthy devotion and reclaiming selfhood.

nakedness and raw honesty linger. The al bum strips away illusions and exposes un guarded emotions and stark truths that reso nate long after the last notes fade.

but that is what makes it compelling. Each song is more personal than the last, giving listeners a mountaintop view of Lorde’s mind. It is messy, bold and deeply human, connecting with the queer and the conven tional.

Dylan Speicher // Alligator Staff

Lorde’s new album Virgin is her first non-collaborative release in the past few years, exploring aspects of her own identity.

www.alligator.org/section/opinions

Germain’s chicken sandwiches: Feathered food served gourmet

You might not know this, but Germain’s is both a place and a person, hence the possessive apostrophe. The restaurant is run by Rodney Germain and his nephew Shelton Seraphin, who both said their goal for the Gainesville restaurant is to serve the community while reflecting it. I can’t think of a better way to describe what’s going on here.

Like most places I review, I made another visit before writing this piece. It wasn’t because I forgot what the food tasted like — trust me, I haven’t. I wanted to see it with fresh eyes, not only the eyes of a critic, but also the eyes of an everyday, hungry Gainesville resident with fried chicken tunnel vision. This time around, I walked away with even more appreciation for what they’ve built.

If I had to choose one word to describe Germain’s, it’d be wholesome. The soft pastel palette and clean, minimal interior give it a polished boutique feel, while its rugged concrete floor reminds you this place may be pretty, but it’s still here to feed you. The whole vibe mirrors the food: unexpectedly elegant and deeply satisfying.

Gourmet fried chicken sandwiches aren’t easy to come by, but one of the best in the game just happens to be sitting right here in Gainesville.

I don’t want to delay getting to the food, but I’d be doing a disservice to the spirit of Germain’s if I didn’t talk about the names behind the experience. After all, if the owner can be bold enough to put his name on the sign, I think it’s only fair I share a few of the names that made my visit what it was.

As usual, I wasn’t the first through the door. There was a small line, but service was quick, personal and attentive. I zoned out, staring at the restaurant’s displays of Power Rangers, Simpsons figurines, LEGO flowers and a giant handmade Ferris wheel, so I didn’t even realize it was my turn to order.

That’s when I met Madi, short for Madison, who might be one of the best front-of-house people I’ve encountered in Gainesville. She an-

swered my barrage of questions about the restaurant with the kind of patience usually reserved for therapists or saints. The quirky items I gawked at earlier were personal contributions from the staff, I discovered, a visual collage of their collective interests and personalities.

She juggled my superfan-level curiosity while helping a growing line of customers without missing a beat. When she finally had to tag out, she handed me off to Simon, the happiest person alive. He didn’t stop smiling the entire time I was there — not in a creepy way, but in a “This job is actually fun, and the vibes are immaculate” kind of way.

By the time my food arrived, I was already riding high on the feeling of a genuine welcome. The warm, easygoing energy made everything on the plate taste even better.

Now let’s talk about what I ordered and another standout that earned its place in Germain’s hall of fame.

Honey Bird

With a name that sounds like something you might call your partner, the Honey Bird might bring you just as much happiness. It’s everything you look for in a relationship: sweet, a little spicy and right next to ranch French fries.

The fried chicken is golden and juicy, glazed in warm honey butter that clings to the breading like it’s meant to stay forever. The pickles add the perfect amount of bite to cut through the richness, and the brioche bun holds it all together like a loyal companion. It’s comforting, exciting and, honestly, if this sandwich asked me to move in, I’d start looking for jobs in the area. Sorry Anneka.

Rooster DLX

This dish sounds like the name of a cool producer, but maybe I’m just thinking of Run-DMC. It’s tricky to describe this sandwich adequately, but one thing’s for sure: This is the real staple. Forget the “classic” listed at the top of the menu; this sandwich was clearly built to have its name in bold.

What sets it apart isn’t just the perfectly fried chicken breast; it’s the symphony of details stacked on top. You get a layer of arugula with its signature peppery bite, plus fresh tomato for some cool acidity. The true headliner here is the bacon jam, slow-cooked for eight hours until it’s smoky, sweet, sticky and borderline addictive. It’s like if breakfast and barbecue had a secret handshake that lunch and dinner were jealous of.

It’s all brought together by Germain’s signature sauce, which is creamy, tangy and impossible to pin down but found on nearly every sandwich. It ties the whole thing together like a bassline in a song. Walk this way to the Rooster DLX, but don’t underestimate how enticed you’ll be to buy a second on the spot.

Closing remarks

At Germain’s, the fried chicken is half the story. The rest is written by the people, like Germain and Seraphin, who built this place not only to serve food but to serve Gainesville. It’s a spot where the staff will want to talk to you. The space feels like a personality explosion in the best way, and the food is crispy, rich and unapologetically bold. It tastes like it was made with care and finesse.

It’s more than a chicken joint. It’s a gathering place, a sandwichpowered social hub where you walk in hungry and walk out wondering how your lunch just made you feel fulfilled in every way. If you still need convincing, just go try the bacon jam. If that doesn’t win you over, I don’t trust your taste buds, instincts or capacity for joy.

Aidan Ragan is a UF computer science senior.

College life: A competition among peers?

Is college just a contest to see who can suffer the most?

Last semester, I took my easiest course load and have never been happier. Of course, there were other factors, like taking trips with friends and going out more.

But I couldn’t help but wonder: Why did I spend my freshman year as a workaholic?

I skipped too many hangouts and picnics in favor of dedicating more time to my studies or my design team. But why did I continue to do that?

Fall 2024 was my worst semester yet. A 14-credit course load on top of a job that overworked me and a design team was too much on my plate. It was more than I could chew. But there always seems to be another Gator jumping on the opportunity to say, “Wait, I could do more.”

The other night, while attempting to study, my friend Bee couldn’t help but compare herself to her other club member counterparts: the Harvard-MIT PhD-MD candidate or the student with a startup.

I’m sure we’ve all fallen prey to the silent propaganda of impostor syndrome and feeling like we don’t belong when we see a classmate score higher on an exam or receive a new accolade. Who has it worse? The sorority girl taking business finance and accounting while juggling planning her formal? Or the microbiology major taking organic chemistry, studying for the MCAT and working in a lab?

Does being a pre-med student automatically mean your life is more difficult than that of a humanities major? Are you a better engineer for staying up until 3 a.m. for your design team?

Neither is better nor worse than the other.

So, what can college students do? Friendly competition shouldn’t go out of style, but at some point, we need to call it quits. The game of comparison only has one winner: the person not playing.

How does a student achieve this? Last week, I realized I’ll never know who my peers are outside of the classroom. Who knows if they are acing organic chemistry and then DJ-ing on a Tuesday night? Maybe they have an obnoxious neighbor who always seems to party the night before a big exam.

They say comparison is the thief of joy, but what about when you have it better? Is it healthier to never try to one-up others’ challenges, or is it easier to compare yourself when you are doing better?

College in The Swamp is a constant game of competition. It does have some merit. It drives ambition. It unites us, especially during the Sunshine Showdown. It’s not all terrible.

Yet, this unspoken game of who can do more and who has it worse is unproductive. Gators are meant to rise to the challenge, not stoop to its level.

Grace Tran is a UF mechanical engineering sophomore.

The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Alligator.

The Alligator encourages comments from readers. Letters to the editor should not exceed 600 words (about one letter-sized page). They must be typed, double-spaced and must include the author’s name, classification and phone number. Names will be withheld if the writer shows just cause. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, style and libel. Send letters to opinions@alligator.org, bring them to 2700 SW 13th St., or send them to P.O. Box 14257, Gainesville, FL 32604-2257.Columns of about 450 words about original topics and editorial cartoons are also welcome. Questions? Call 352-376-4458.

Aidan Ragan opinions@alligator.org

Grace Tran opinions@alligator.org

How to Place a Classified Ad:

APARTMENT FOR RENT - FURNISHED1BR

/ 1 Office, heat/air not central. 10 minutes to campus. 409 SE 14th Pl. Asking $900. Grad students preferred. No drinking, No Drugs, No Pets. 55 & older. 352-213-5942 7-7-25-3-1

● UF Surplus On-Line Auctions ● are underway...bikes, computers, furniture, vehicles & more. All individuals interested in bidding go to: SURPLUS.UFL.EDU 392-0370 8-14-25-13-10

Donate your vehicle to help find missing kids and keep kids safe. Fast free pickup, running or not, 24 hr. response. No emission test required, maximum tax deduction. Support Find the Children Call – Call 1-833-546-7050 6-30-13-12

5 Real Estate

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle

6 Furnishings

CASH PAID FOR HIGH-END MEN'S SPORT WATCHES. Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-0211 6-30-9-13

We Buy Vintage Guitar's! Looking for 19201980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6789 6-30-23-13

● ● CASH FOR YOUR STUFF ● ● GAINESVILLE COLLECTIBLES IS BUYING Gold/Silver Coins ● Paper Money ● Stamps Watches ● Jewelry ● Silver Flatware Comic Books ● Sports Items Near Campus ● Call 352-776-6591 7-28-25-21-13

Planning to liquidate stereos, TV's, instruments and tools? See Rich at Best He'll give cash for your jewels 523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 8-14-9-14

STUDENT HELPER

Senior UF grad needs help around the house. A few hours per week. Must like pets. $17/hr. Close to UF. ghpolkgator@gmail.com 7-7-25-4-14

ALL Original Orlando Commercial Rock Singer, Acoustic Guitar Player/Keyboard player, & Lead Guitarist with an 80's & early 90's sound are seeking a Lead Guitarist, Bass Player, & Drummer. We are interested in showcasing the original music for investors, management companies and music executives. No Drugs and Polished musicians only! You can hear our original music at www.sobakmusic.com. Please contact Ruth @ ruthshowalter@yahoo.com 6-30-25-2-14

PHYSICIAN'S ASSISTANT/NP WANTED

Come join our state wide growing practice in Gainesville, FL as a primary care provider! Our brand new office is only a few minutes from campus. We are seeking motivated, qualified providers to join our growing practice full time and long term. Mon - Fri 9a-5p, no weekends, no holidays. Starting salary $115,000/ year. Check us out at Tri-health family medicine wellness center, Gainesville campus. If interested, send your resume to nicokristen4@ gmail.com. New grads welcome. 6-16-25-1-14

NEED NEW WINDOWS? Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energy efficient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & FREE quote today. 1-833-889-0953 6-30-2-15

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 1-833-754-2465 6-30-62-15

Don't Pay For Covered Home Repairs Again! Our home warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. We stand by our service and if we can't fix it, we'll replace it! Pick the plan that fits your budget! Call: 1-833-650-5419 6-30-66-15

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-833-714-3745. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! 6-30-69-15

PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for a quote or inspection today 1-833-542-1732 Have zip code of property ready when calling! 6-30-69-15

When you're stuck out in Oz and you need cash to get home, click your heels three times and think of Best Jewelry and Loan. 523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 8-14-9-15

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-889-1805 Have zip code of property ready when calling! 6-30-20-15

Spoits! 8-14-25-13-15

DRUG PROBLEM? WE CAN HELP! 24 HOURS 7 DAYS CALL NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS 352-376-8008 www.uncoastna.org pr@uncoastna.org Need CPR Training? (352) 727-4733 www.GatorCPR.com CNA Prep Classes from GatorCNA.com 8-14-25-13-16

Alachua County Health Dept. Call 334-7960 for app’t (optional $20 fee) ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-3729 6-30-92-16

ANTIBODY TESTING

1. TELEVISION: What is the name of the bar where Homer Simpson hangs out?

2. MUSIC: What are the first names of the Jackson 5?

1. MEASUREMENTS: How many inches are in a mile?

3. MOVIES: What prop is found in almost every scene in "The Fight Club"?

4. ANATOMY: What does the term "hallux" refer to in human anatomy?

5. GEOMETRY: What is the perimeter of a circle called?

2. ASTRONOMY: What does the acronym SETI mean to the scientific community?

6. LITERATURE: What is Ron Weasley's patronus in the "Harry Potter" book series?

3. LANGUAGE: What does the Latin prefix “sub-” mean in English?

7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How many tusks does a warthog have?

8. GEOGRAPHY: How many states does the Pacific Crest Trail cross?

9. SCIENCE: What is a common name for iron oxide?

4. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the only president to serve two nonconsecutive terms?

10. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery in WWII?

5. LITERATURE: Which 20th-century movie star penned the autobiography “Me: Stories of My Life”?

6. HISTORY: What was the first National Monument proclaimed in the United States?

7. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the island of Luzon located?

8. MOVIES: Which sci-fi movie has the tagline, “Reality is a thing of the past”?

1.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes running back and 1950 Heisman Trophy winner Vic Janowicz played two seasons with what Major League Baseball team before starting his NFL career in 1954?

2. What is the nickname of Youngstown State University's athletic teams?

9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was the name of the United States’ first nuclear-powered submarine?

3. Following a 2009 loss to the Texas A&M Aggies, what Texas Tech Red Raiders head football coach told reporters that his players' "fat little girlfriends" were making them lose focus?

4. Scott Turner, who played cornerback for three different NFL teams from 1995-2003, assumed what position in the Cabinet of the United States in January 2025?

10. GAMES: What are the four railroad properties in Monopoly? Answers

5. In 2019, pop star, actor, TV personality and competitive swimmer Alex Fong raised $1 million for charity by swimming 28 miles around what island?

1. 63,360 inches

2. Search for extraterrestrial intelligence

6. In 1990, right-handed pitcher Dave Stieb recorded the first (and as of 2024, only) no-hitter in the history of what Major League Baseball franchise?

7. What sport, popular in Afghanistan and Central Asia, involves horse-mounted players trying to drag a goat carcass into a scoring area called a taqt?

3. Below or insufficient

4. Grover Cleveland 5. Katharine Hepburn

The Philippines

Washington).

Pennsylvania, Short Line, Reading and B&O

Circumference.

The Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Penguins.

Mike Leach.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

Hong Kong Island.

The Toronto Blue Jays.

Buzkashi.

Moe's Tavern.

Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael.

The big toe.

Jack Russell Terrier.

Four.

Three (California, Oregon, and

Rust.

George H.W. Bush.

Sudoku solution

El Caimán

LUNES, 30 DE JUNIO DE 2025

www.alligator.org/section/elcaiman

Los republicanos reanudan el enfoque en la búsqueda presidencial de UF

EL PARTIDO REPUBLICANO DE FLORIDA PIDE A UF UNA BÚSQUEDA PRESIDENCIAL ABIERTA

Por Maria Avlonitis Escritora de El Caimán

Traducido por Candy Fontana-Verde Escritora de El Caimán

Mientras se avecina la tercera búsqueda presidencial en tres años en UF, una palabra se ha vuelto omnipresente: política. El senador Rick Scott y los representantes Greg Steube y Byron Donalds escribieron una carta a la Junta Directiva de UF el 18 de junio solicitando un proceso de búsqueda abierto y transparente, tras la búsqueda secreta que tuvo lugar durante los últimos meses. Santa Ono, expresidente de la Universidad de Michigan, fue anunciado como único finalista de la búsqueda presidencial de UF el 4 de mayo, sorprendiendo a estudiantes y profesores. Ben Sasse, el anterior presidente de UF, también fue el único finalista en un proceso que se desarrolló de manera confidencial.

Aunque Ono recibió el apoyo total de la Junta Directiva de UF, fue rechazado por la Junta de Gobernadores de Florida con una votación de 10-6 el 3 de junio. A menos de un mes de ser anunciado como único finalista, Ono enfrentó una ola de críticas conservadoras por su apoyo previo a

iniciativas de diversidad.

La carta de Scott, Steube y Donalds señaló preocupaciones sobre Ono que “se habrían abordado mucho antes de la votación de este mes” si UF hubiera realizado una búsqueda transparente, decía el documento.

Un proceso abierto que considere públicamente a múltiples candidatos es “lo que llevó a Florida a convertirse en el estado líder en educación superior hace casi una década”, escribieron.

La mayoría de los presidentes universitarios en Florida ganan un paquete salarial de $1 millón, pero el de Ono estaba valorado en alrededor de $3 millones. Los estudiantes, las familias y los contribuyentes de Florida deberían estar involucrados en el proceso porque ayudan a financiar dicho paquete, señalaba la carta.

La búsqueda es confidencial debido al Proyecto de Ley del Senado 520, una ley firmada por el gobernador Ron DeSantis en 2022, que exime de los requisitos de registros públicos cualquier información personal identificable de los solicitantes a la presidencia de una universidad estatal.

La Cámara de Representantes de Florida intentó revertir esta ley con una votación de 104-8 a favor del Proyecto de Ley 1321 en abril, pero este murió en el Senado.

Scott, Steube y Donalds afirmaron que parece que la ley “se está utilizando de manera abusiva para crear un sistema injusto”.

UF no respondió a solicitudes de comentarios sobre el estado de la búsqueda presidencial ni sobre si el comité de búsqueda considerará la carta del legislativo estatal.

El jefe del comité de búsqueda presidencial y copresidente de la Junta Directiva de UF, Rahul Patel, ha defendido en varias ocasiones el proceso cerrado.

La búsqueda del 14.º presidente de UF atrajo un grupo impresionante de candidatos, incluyendo presidentes en funciones de grandes universidades de investigación, escribió Patel en una columna de opinión en el Tampa Bay Times el 6 de mayo.

Los candidatos solo participarían si se les garantizaba confidencialidad, a menos que fueran nombrados como únicos finalistas, escribió.

“Los presidentes en funciones enfrentan consecuencias significativas en sus instituciones actuales si son identificados públicamente como candidatos fallidos en otra búsqueda”, escribió Patel.

Después de que Ono fue rechazado por la Junta de Gobernadores, la Universidad de Michigan confirmó que Ono renunció a su empleo en la universidad y no volverá a su puesto docente.

La tendencia roja

La búsqueda en UF refleja una tendencia en curso hacia la politización de la educación superior en Florida y la influencia de DeSantis en ella.

El gobernador no respaldó a Ono a pesar del apoyo inicial y no hizo comentarios tras su rechazo.

Varios aliados de DeSantis han sido confirmados en universidades de Florida. Cinco de las 12 universidades públicas del estado estarán dirigidas por exlegisladores o

cabilderos republicanos.

La Junta de Gobernadores confirmó por unanimidad a Jeanette Nuñez como presidenta de la Universidad Internacional de Florida y a Marva Johnson como presidenta de la Universidad Agrícola y Mecánica de Florida el 18 de junio.

Nuñez fue vicegobernadora de DeSantis y exrepresentante estatal. Ha sido presidenta interina de FIU desde febrero, después de que la oficina de DeSantis contactara directamente al presidente de la Junta de Síndicos de FIU, Roger Tovar, para recomendarla para el puesto.

El nombramiento de Johnson generó la mayor controversia por sus profundos vínculos políticos. Fue designada inicialmente en la Junta de Educación de Florida por el exgobernador Rick Scott y reelegida por DeSantis, sirviendo ocho años.

Estudiantes y profesores cuestionaron la experiencia de Johnson en educación superior. Sus vínculos con DeSantis provocaron protestas en el campus y más de 18,000 personas firmaron una petición en contra de su nominación antes de ser confirmada.

Elyza Kates, estudiante de tercer año de periodismo en FAMU de 20 años, dijo sentirse decepcionada por la confirmación de Johnson, porque su currículum no muestra experiencia universitaria.

Lea el resto en línea en alligator.org/section/elcaiman.

@MariaAvlonitis mavlonitis@alligator.org

El costo escondido del analfabetismo en las familias del condado de Alachua

ELOS NIVELES CRECIENTES DE ANALABETISMO DEJAN A LAS FAMILIAS ATRAPADAS EN CICLOS DE POBREZA Y LIMITAN LAS OPORTUNIDADES DE ÉXITO DE LOS NIÑOS

Por Logan McBride

Escrito de El Caimán

Traducido por Avery Parker

Escrito de El Caimán

Casi uno de cada cinco adultos en el condado de Alachua no pueden leer suficientemente bien para navegar la vida diaria – parte de una ola creciente de analfabetismo que ha surgido silenciosamente en el país en los últimos años. El problema se refleja a nivel nacional, con adultos estadounidenses que marcaron los niveles más bajos de competencia de lectura aumentando nueve puntos porcentuales en seis años.

El Centro Lastinger para el Aprendizaje de la Universidad de Florida es un centro de investigación bajo la Facultad de Educación de UF. Investiga soluciones para mejorar la enseñanza, el aprendizaje y el cuidado de los niños.

La Evaluación Comprensiva de Necesidades de Alfabetización del Centro Lastinger recogió datos de más de 1,300 miembros de la comunidad del condado de Alachua, incluyendo educadores, estudiantes y padres. El informe reunió nueve meses de estudio independiente, además de estudios estatales y nacionales y

Mantente al día con El Caimán en Twitter. Envíanos un tweet @ElCaimanGNV.

datos de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Alachua.

Los resultados del informe detallan cómo el analfabetismo puede dañar el bienestar social y económico de un adulto y su movilidad profesional. Las organizaciones del condado están intentando cerrar las brechas.

Barbara Reardon, una coordinadora de alfabetización del Distrito de Bibliotecas del Condado de Alachua, dijo que los adultos enfrentan una variedad de barreras al navegar la alfabetización. A medida que los adultos envejecen, se vuelve más difícil construir habilidades de lectura y más desafiante alcanzar a los adultos analfabetos que pueden luchar económicamente, dijo ella.

Apoyar a los adultos analfabetos puede ser difícil para organizaciones como el Distrito de Bibliotecas del Condado de Alachua, porque es más difícil dar información a alguien que lucha con la lectura. Las familias con padres analfabetos también pueden impactar la alfabetización de sus niños, añadió.

Un estudio de los Institutos Nacionales de Salud encontró que el nivel de alfabetización de la madre es el mayor determinante del éxito académico y nivel de lectura de su hijo. La Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina también encontró que las familias de bajos recursos tienen menos interacciones verbales entre padres e hijos.

“Este es ciertamente un problema cíclico”, dijo Reardon. “Si tenemos adultos en una familia con bajo nivel de alfabetización, entonces es mucho más difícil para esos niños recibir el apoyo y la exposición a la lectura”.

Según el informe del Centro Lastinger, 64% de los aprendices adultos a nivel nacional están empleados y son

padres de niños en edad escolar. “Aprendices adultos” se refiere a individuos de 16 años o más que no terminaron la educación básica o no tienen diploma de secundaria pero tienen huecos en habilidades educativas como lectura, matemáticas y inglés hablado.

Alison Keel, una residente de Gainesville de 62 años, es tutora voluntaria del programa de alfabetización de adultos del distrito de bibliotecas del condado.

El programa gratuito ofrece tutoría uno a uno a adultos que luchan con tareas de lectura. Keel ha sido voluntaria desde 2022.

Mejorar la alfabetización no es tan simple como la capacidad de leer, dijo ella, sino también se extiende a la experiencia de vida.

Algunos de sus estudiantes pueden decodificar palabras con fonética, dijo, pero si no tienen contexto para la palabra, se vuelve una palabra “sin sentido”, donde los estudiantes saben que es una palabra real pero no tienen contexto del mundo real, haciendo difícil comprender lo que leen.

Muchos estudiantes pueden pronunciar y leer palabras, pero algunos no pueden visualizar los significados, añadió. Leer es frecuentemente una experiencia visual, donde las personas imaginan las palabras o descripciones. Aquellos con dificultades de alfabetización pueden ser demasiado desconocidos con las palabras para imaginarlas, dijo.

Lea el resto en línea en alligator.org/section/elcaiman.

Síganos para actualizaciones Para obtener actualizaciones de El Caimán, síganos en línea en www.alligator.org/section/elcaiman. Women’s tennis Alicia Dudeney reflects on her collegiate career. Read more on pg. 12.

@logandmcbride lmcbride@alligator.org

MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025

www.alligator.org/section/sports

GYMNASTICS

‘Mommy and me’ to SEC: Taylor Clark reflects on gymnastics career

THE SEC ALL-FRESHMAN’S GYMNASTICS JOURNEY AND HER START AT UF

By Ava DiCecca Sports Writer

At the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional Second Round, freshman Taylor Clark overcame the tournament pressure to match her collegiate best and exercise mark, raising 9.95 on floor.

It was the highlight of her freshman year as Clark wrapped up her first season as a Gators gymnast.

The rising sophomore from Orange Park, Florida, devoted her life to gymnastics since she was three years old. She would go on to become a floor and vault champion and a Division I athlete.

Taylor described herself as an energetic, active and spontaneous kid, leading one of her mother’s friends to suggest enrolling her in gymnastics. She began attending “mommy and me” gymnastics classes. From there, the sport became an instrumental piece of Taylor’s life.

Taylor committed to gymnastics when one of her coaches saw her potential, telling her she could go far in the sport. She was put on team gymnastics to see where she would go from there.

Taylor continued to grow and carried her passion into high school, when she competed for Florida Elite Gymnastics, an all-encompassing athletic program. She was met with her first setback during her freshman year.

“I lost confidence in myself,” Taylor said.

WOMEN'S TENNIS

“I didn’t think I was good.”

She initially had her heart set on competing at the University of Georgia. When the university didn’t show interest in her, she thought her gymnastics journey ended. However, after meeting with her coach, she realized there were other colleges she could call home.

Taylor rebuilt her confidence after the rejection and had her best high school season during her sophomore year.

The perfect 10 she received on vault at the Magical Classic in 2023 is one victory that impacted Taylor.

“My coach, unfortunately, had a death in the family and he said, ‘I ask of you one thing, one thing I hope you do is just get a 10,’” Taylor said. “I went to that meet and I said, ‘You know what, I'm going to get a 10,’ and then I got a 10.”

The perfect score clinched her first place on vault for the meet.

She earned a myriad of honors throughout her high school career. In 2022, she was named Alamo Classic all-around and floor exercise champion and U.S. Development Program National Championships Junior D floor exercise champion.

In 2022 and 2023, she grabbed the Region Eight vault champion title and won the 2023 floor exercise title, Florida State floor exercise champion and 2023 all-around runner-up, which just scratches the surface of her accomplishments.

Looking toward college, Taylor needed to find a program that could help her grow.

When looking for the right school, Taylor knew she wanted a balance between strong athletics and academics, she said. She also

Alligator Archives

Florida Gators gymnast Taylor Clark performs on the floor in a gymnastics meet against Auburn University in Gainesville, Fla., on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025.

wanted a diverse school where she could feel welcomed. UF was the right fit, and she announced her commitment in October 2022.

“Her vibrant demeanor when she competes was really fun to watch,” said Florida’s head coach Jenny Rowland about the decision to recruit Taylor. “[I] just knew she would be a great contributor to our team.”

As a Gator, she achieved what she believes to be her biggest accomplishment: competing in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center her first

year. Her mom, Erica Clark, agreed.

“Running out on the floor and seeing all of the fans, I just saw her eyes like, ‘Oh my god, I’m here,” Erica said. “That was very warm to us, her family. That was a very special moment.”

Entering the program, Clark emphasized the importance of not just battling her opponents but improving her own abilities.

“There’s definitely a lot of good gymnasts on our team,” she said. “I’m going to have to fight, I’m going to have to work on myself and do the best I can, and if the coaches see that I’m meant to be in the lineup, I’m meant to be in the lineup.”

She cracked the lineup and competed so well she was named SEC All-Freshman team for floor. Taylor went to nationals in her first year.

Taylor attributed her success to her grit and the constant chip on her shoulder.

“I have a lot of determination,” she said. “When I was younger, people said maybe I wouldn't make it far… that fueled me.”

Now, Taylor is setting her goals for next season and beyond. Her sights are set on expanding her competitive success outside of her main events of floor and vault.

While she looks to compete in other events, she said next season she’ll focus on vault. Taylor’s peers have unwavering confidence in her ability to succeed in any event.

Read the rest online at alligator.org/ section/sports.

@avadicecca24 adicecca@alligator.org

Florida women’s tennis player has breakout season in final collegiate year

ALICIA DUDENEY HAD A BREAKOUT SENIOR SEASON FOLLOWING HIP SURGERY

By Jeffrey Serber Sports Writer

After a hip surgery interrupted her junior year, Florida women’s tennis graduate Alicia Dudeney returned for a dominant senior season that made her teammates question what she couldn't do.

“She can definitely do it all,” freshman teammate Talia NeilsonGatenby said. “She’s the most inspirational person I’ve probably met.” Dudeney capped her time at Florida with a Final Four run at the NCAA Doubles Championships. She went 11-1 in singles and 9-2 in doubles against SEC opponents and finished with All-SEC First Team honors and top-50 ITA rankings in

both doubles and singles.

Her determination to finish her time in Gainesville on the right foot made her run special.

“I hope that people see me as someone who was a great teammate,” Dudeney said. “Someone who works really hard and just put Florida first.”

After making the SEC All-Freshman team in her first year at the University of Florida, Dudeney entered her sophomore season with an opportunity to take a significant leap. Former head coach Roland Thornqvist advanced her to the No. 1 spot in doubles, allowing Dudeney to compete against the toughest competition on the doubles court.

However, a minor discomfort in her hip at the beginning of the season limited her action over the next two seasons. Dudeney attempted to play through the injury but decided to undergo surgery in the following offseason.

“It definitely is a scary thing,”

alligatorSports has a podcast! The alligatorSports Podcast releases episodes every Wednesday and can be streamed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your other preferred streaming platform.

Dudeney said. “You don’t know how it's going to recover, you don't know if it's ever going to be the same.”

Dudeney was sidelined until December 2023, trepidatiously anticipating her return to the court as she waited for her health to improve. The setback weighed on her mentally, but she continued to carry herself with composure throughout the recovery process.

“I know it was tough for her,” senior Bente Spee said. “[She carried herself] very well and very professionally.”

Dudeney returned to the court in the spring, where her struggles overcoming surgery reflected in her play.

She finished her junior year 14-11 in singles and 9-9 in doubles, marking her lowest win percentages at UF in both categories. The fall season marked the first time Dudeney failed to win on court two in doubles, going 0-3.

Dudeney’s struggles were also evident in her singles court position.

Follow our newsletter Love alligatorSports? Stay up to date on our content by following our newsletter. Scan the QR Code to sign up.

Her junior season was the only time she failed to play on courts one or two and the only time she appeared on courts five and six.

“I was straight into season my junior year, so it definitely was tough,” Dudeney said. “I tried to put all of my thoughts and everything into just doing the right thing.”

After resting during the summer, Dudeney returned to full speed in doubles alongside junior Rachel Gailis. The tandem signed up for the doubles regionals after Thornqvist unexpectedly decided to retire on Oct. 7, 2024.

“With everything that was going on, I kind of just wanted to have fun out there with everyone,” Dudeney said. “I think that’s kind of what all of us needed.”

The two had never played together in doubles before regionals, but it took just one match for the pair to adjust to each other’s playing styles.

Gailis and Dudeney rode their momentum toward the regional

doubles title, punching their ticket to the 2024 NCAA Doubles Championships, where they defeated No. 1 UCLA tandem Kimmi Hance and Elise Wagle in straight sets in the Round of 16.

“After that match, we were like, ‘Wait, I think we can make a run in this tournament,’” Gailis said. The pair’s success set them up for a thrilling match against Virginia graduate student Melodie Collard and freshman Elaine Chervinsky. After taking the first set 6-1, the UF pair dropped the second set 3-6 and the superset tiebreaker 8-10. Collard and Chervinsky won the tournament, and Florida’s tandem saw the curtains close on their final fall season together.

Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/sports.

@JeffreySerber Jserber@alligator.org

Follow us for updates For updates on UF athletics, follow us on Twitter at @alligatorSports or online at www.alligator.org/section/sports.