Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY — Once again the University of Florida, the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, and The Alachua County Visitors and Convention Bureau will be hosting the Christian Congregative of Jehovah’s Witnesses this 4th of July weekend starting Friday, June 30, 2006. Based on attendance figures from last year, some 7,500 people will attend over the three day period.

Hosting the Jehovah’s Witnesses has a significant economic impact for our community. Patience and understanding from faculty, staff and students, as well as the general public, particularly during the morning rush hour on Friday, June 30, is encouraged while we welcome them back for the ultimate benefit to all. Intersections to avoid if possible are:

• SW 34th Street and University Avenue
• 13th Street and University Avenue
• Due to the construction on SW 2nd Avenue off Newberry Road, it is suggested that 8th and 16th Avenues are traveled during the morning rush June 30
• Road construction at SW 2nd Avenue at the O’Connell Center

The Gainesville Sun will publish a map giving further details of pertinent information for area commuters to the University.

The Alachua County Visitors and Convention Bureau wants to extend a special thank you to the Board of County Commissioners, Alachua County Legal Department and the Tourist Development Council for the development of a county-wide convention grant that assisted them in bringing the Jehovah’s Witnesses to our community. They also would like to thank the City of Gainesville for their contribution in bringing these prestigious Conventions to the University and our community.

For more information, citizens can contact Roland Loog, CDME, Director of the Alachua County Visitors and Convention Bureau at (352) 374-5231.

Based on attendance figures from last year, some 7,500 people will attend the Christian Congregative of Jehovah’s Witnesses at the O’Connell Center over the three day period, beginning June 30.