Local News

The city of Chiefland’s financial health received an “unqualified” endorsement, the highest available from its auditor, Robert Beauchamp.

Beauchamp, who delivered his report on the state of city revenues and spending at Monday evening’s commission meeting, commended the city staff for its helpfulness and their attention to properly handling public funds.

“They do a great job; they’re a great staff,” he said.

The Levy County Visitors Bureau met with area businesses in Cedar Key this week to discuss how the agency works to promote local tourism.

“I would like to make this an annual event – maybe in May with Tourism Week,” said Carol McQueen, Executive Director of the Visitors Bureau. “We collect a tax and I think people want to know what we do with it.”

Southwest Archer Road  (State Road 24) in the town of Archer will be closed for four days next week while the railroad crossing just west of U.S. 27/41 is rebuilt, according to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

The closure, which also affects pedestrians, is scheduled to begin at 5 a.m. Tuesday, June 23 and be completed by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 26, barring any unforeseen conditions.

Erika Drummond of Chiefland was named the Watermelon Queen at the pageant held Saturday night at Chiefland Elementary School.

First runner-up was Rachel Kee; second runner-up was Raven Wilson and Miss Congeniality was Casey Besterman.

There was entertainment provided by Sarah Gore, and Maddie Kelley, last year's winner, choreographed the opening song and dance number.

Candidates were questioned by the judges, with the field of 16 being trimmed to the final seven, who then had to answer another question before the audience.