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Columbia County Day News

"Your Daily Source for Local Stories"Columbia County, FL Edition

State News

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 · Columbia County

Fall Orientation Week Set for Pensacola Students

Fall Orientation Week Set for Pensacola Students

Pensacola's colleges and universities are preparing for Fall Orientation Week in mid-August, welcoming new students with campus tours, academic advising, and community integration.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026
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Dr. Steven Barnett, MD

Information regarding Dr. Steven Barnett, MD, is currently unavailable for the North Port community.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Older Home, Older Pipes: Common Drainage Issues in Historic Orlando Neighborhoods

Oviedo residents in older homes are increasingly facing drainage issues due to aging pipes, with root intrusion and corrosion being common problems.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Spring Footwear Trends Step into Sarasota

Sarasota shoe stores are highlighting spring footwear trends, focusing on comfort, versatile styles, and a palette of earthy tones and pastels for the season.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

When is the Best Time to Clean Your Lake Mary Windows?

Lake Mary residents often wonder about the best time to clean their windows, with local conditions playing a key role in achieving streak-free results.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Considering a Smile Makeover? What Florida Residents Should Know

Florida residents unhappy with their teeth may benefit from a smile makeover, which can address issues like chips, stains, and crookedness.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Florida's 2026 Sports Boom Set to Shatter Tourism Records

From Miami's FIFA World Cup matches to Jacksonville's championship surges, Florida's packed 2026 sports calendar promises billions in tourism revenue. South Florida alone eyes a $3 billion economic jolt, fueling hotels, restaurants and local businesses statewide. Officials predict record visitor spending as upgraded venues draw global crowds.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Cook's Exit as Apple CEO Rocks Florida's Tech Boom

Apple CEO Tim Cook's sudden departure sends ripples through Florida's burgeoning tech sector, where the iPhone giant has poured millions into local innovation hubs. With John Ternus stepping in on Sept. 1, industry leaders in Orlando and Miami ponder the next chapter for Sunshine State investments. The shift caps Cook's 15-year run that fueled Apple's $3.6 trillion market surge.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Hernando County Eyes $100M Public Safety Training Hub

Hernando County officials are pushing forward with a massive $100 million public safety training facility to modernize first responder preparation amid aging infrastructure. The ambitious project hinges on voters approving a half-cent sales tax in 2026, promising a centralized hub for law enforcement, fire rescue and emergency drills. If greenlit, it could transform how the county tackles everything from active shooters to structure fires.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Duval Elections Chief Addresses Florida's SAVE Act Amid Lawsuit Storm

Duval County's elections supervisor reassures voters as a new Florida law demands proof of U.S. citizenship to register, sparking a federal lawsuit from the ACLU. Supporters hail it as an election security win, but critics warn of voter confusion and disenfranchisement. The changes won't hit until 2027, but the debate rages now.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Messi's Brace Lifts Inter Miami Past Rapids, Extends Unbeaten Run

Lionel Messi scored twice Saturday as Inter Miami CF defeated the Colorado Rapids 3-2, extending the South Florida club's unbeaten streak to seven games. The Argentine superstar opened the scoring on a penalty kick in the 13th minute before adding the go-ahead goal in the 79th minute, showcasing why he remains the franchise's all-time leading scorer.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

McIlroy Makes History: Florida's Golf Star Wins Back-to-Back Masters

Rory McIlroy, a Florida resident, joined an exclusive four-member club Sunday when he won his second consecutive Masters championship at Augusta National. The Northern Irish golfer's repeat victory marks only the fourth time in the tournament's 92-year history that a player has captured the green jacket in consecutive years.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Teen Arrested in Deadly I-75 Hit-and-Run near Bradenton

An 18-year-old Florida man faces vehicular homicide charges after allegedly weaving a Ford Mustang into a fatal chain-reaction crash on I-75 in Manatee County. The collision killed a 34-year-old semi-truck driver from New Smyrna Beach and shut down southbound lanes for hours. Florida Highway Patrol released crash video showing the Mustang's reckless maneuver before the driver fled.[1][2][3]

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Railroad Fire Scorches 3,000 Acres Near Clay-Putnam Line

Two wildfires along the Clay-Putnam county line have merged into the massive Railroad Fire, burning 3,000 acres and forcing evacuations in North Florida. With only 10% containment amid dry, windy conditions, the Florida National Guard is deploying aviation support as firefighters brace for a weeks-long battle. Road closures and Amtrak delays highlight the spreading threat to communities near Green Cove Springs and Palatka.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

DeLand Teens Sought for Foam Attack on Protected Gopher Tortoise

Two teenagers remain at large after allegedly spraying expanding foam into a gopher tortoise's mouth in DeLand, sparking outrage over cruelty to Florida's iconic protected species. The tortoise survived thanks to quick rescue efforts but highlights growing threats to wildlife in Volusia County. Authorities urge tips to identify the juveniles.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Rip Current Warnings Blanket Flagler, Volusia Beaches as Atlantic Swells Build

The National Weather Service has issued high rip current risk statements for coastal Flagler and Volusia counties, warning swimmers of dangerous conditions driven by strong Atlantic swells. Lifeguards urge beachgoers to heed warning flags and avoid entering the surf, as rip currents can sweep even experienced swimmers into deeper water.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Understanding Root Canal Procedures: What Florida Residents Can Expect

A typical root canal procedure in Florida takes between 30 and 90 minutes, offering a valuable solution for preserving natural teeth and relieving discomfort.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Understanding Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Florida

Wisdom teeth extractions are a common dental procedure in Florida, often necessitated by impacted teeth causing pain or uneven eruption.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Understanding Full Mouth Reconstruction: Restoring Function and Appearance

Full mouth reconstructions aim to restore the functionality and appearance of your smile, making everyday activities like speaking, chewing, and smiling easier and more comfortable.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

What is Snore Therapy?

Snoring may indicate an airway issue; local dental offices, including Ridge View Dental, offer effective snore therapy solutions.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

When DCF Comes A-Knockin': Understanding Florida's Child Protection System

If police are called to a domestic dispute with children present in Florida, they are mandated to report the situation to DCF, which can lead to child removal if danger is perceived.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026