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Health Department issues rabies alert for Orange Park area

CLAY COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Clay County has issued a rabies alert in Clay County in response to a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon that was killed in the Town of Orange …
The first vehicles started rolling over the new four-lane bridge on County Road 220 at 10:45 a.m. on Friday.

County Road 220 bridgework completed, finally reopened to public

County Road 220 bridgework completed, finally open to public   MIDDLEBURG – The wait is over. The County Road 220 bridge replacement and four-lane widening project is now complete and open to …

Yoga is more than exercise at the Yoga Den

MIDDLEBURG —   Yoga Den franchisee Belinda Lynn-Bryant plans to open a studio in Middleburg this fall, bringing a range of yoga classes to a community she said is growing. Lynn-Bryant and her …

CCSO deputy kills suicidal man after he brandished a weapon

A Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputy responding to a suicide threat wound up shooting a man after he brandished a firearm during a wellness check. According to Undersheriff Ron Lendvay, his agency …

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More local news
Virginia et Florida by Gerhard Marcator, 1607. This is what Spain believed their territory looked like in 1607.
Celebrating Clay County History: The Year 1607
CLAY COUNTY - In 1607, things were grim in St. Augustine, Florida, the city located east of what would become Clay County. The people were so hungry – starving really – that some ate cats and …
The Jaguars are at 2-1 heading into Sunday's game at Cincinnati. They are 2-0 at home and 0-1 on the road, including a 20-13 loss at Denver. Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence struggled against the Broncos, including having a pass knocked down by outside linebacker Jonah Elliss.
Road weary: Rooting for Jaguars requires long-distance patience
Let’s face it: it’s not easy being a Jacksonville Jaguars fan. The team is a contradiction in teal. When they’re home at EverBank Stadium, they play like gangbusters. When they’re on the …
Callahan Mears is currently first place in the Baby of the Year competition.
Green Cove Springs toddler in the running for America's Baby of the Year
GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Is Callahan Mears America's Baby of the Year? As the results are soon to be revealed, her mother Regan Swift said she is hopeful that her daughter might just take the …
The Art Guild Gallery is located at 440 McIntosh Ave. in Orange Park.
Art Guild Gallery continues to hone in on diverse, local talents
ORANGE PARK —  It's been eight months since the Art Guild of Orange Park opened the doors to its gallery on McIntosh Avenue. And while the days have come and gone, the fire and excitement is …
County-wide construction is ongoing for the new fiber-powered network and expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Xfinity brings high-speed, reliable internet to more than 2,300 rural homes in Clay
CLAY COUNTY —   Although it's hard to imagine a world without being online, an estimated 24 million Americans still lack access to the internet, according to the Network Installers . But …
The classrooms are always full - and busy - at Fortis College in Orange Park.
Fortis beats the heat by adding HVACR training in November
ORANGE PARK – The plan to add heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration to the curriculum at Fortis College was initiated shortly after the trade school moved into its current …
The Soul Food Festival will be held on Oct. 3 from noon to 7 p.m. at Vera Francis Hall Park, 1503 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Annual Soul Food and Music Festival returns to Green Cove Springs on Oct. 3
GREEN COVE SPRINGS —Even after the Soul Food and Music Festival has wrapped, vendors have closed and the crowd has dwindled down, Felecia and Clarence Hampshire are always looking forward to …
Sagebrooke 55+ is the first neighborhood to debut within the Saratoga Springs community.
Saratoga Springs takes shape in Clay County
GREEN COVE SPRINGS –Saratoga Springs, Clay County’s premier “agrihood” community developed by Freehold Communities, is taking shape with the opening of model homes in Sagebrooke 55+, the …
Whitey's, Encore refresh their looks, menus
FLEMING ISLAND – What was old is now new again along Swimming Pen Creek. Whitey’s Fish Camp and Encore Fleming Island both recently refreshed their restaurants, menus and their futures with …
Obituaries
Vivan Norman
Vivan Norman, age 76, passed away unexpectedly at his home. Born on November 26, 1949, in Clay Hill, Florida, to Eddie Oscar and Hettie Mae Norman, Vivan was a proud Veteran who devoted his life to …
Carole Stewart
Carole Stewart, age 83, passed away on September 23, 2026, from complications of Parkinson’s disease and dementia. She was born in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, on April 30, 1943. Carole married Ron …
Barbara Ann Koranda
Barbara Ann Koranda, 84, of Middleburg, Florida, passed away on September 15, 2026. Barbara was born on August 22, 1942, in Clinton, Iowa, to Gerald and Eleanor McGrath. She was preceded in death by …
Wanda Sue Hendrix Amick
Wanda Sue Hendrix Amick, age 78, of Green Cove Springs, passed away on July 18, 2026. She was born on July 15, 1948, and grew up in Doctor’s Inlet. Wanda was predeceased by her mother, Frances Ryan …
Mrs. Patricia Eileen (Glynn) Roloff
Mrs. Patricia Eileen (Glynn) Roloff of Green Cove Springs, Florida, a devout Roman Catholic, dedicated educator, widow, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully entered eternal life on …
Opinions & Viewpoints
Religion
At first glance, it can feel like we’re reading about two different Gods. In the Old Testament, God seems strict, full of wrath and judgment: commanding battles, enforcing laws and striking people …
As I sit down to write this week’s column, I’m reminded of something simply obvious yet deeply spiritual: “It’s a beautiful world.” It’s not beautiful because everything is easy, and …
This question has crossed every honest heart at some point. Am I really saved? What if I mess up too much? What if I didn’t say the right words or feel the right thing? Can I actually know I’m …
Opinions & Columns
To the Editor,  Clay County has grown fast as Jacksonville pushes outward, and while a lot of that growth means HOA-governed subdivisions, there's still real acreage out in Middleburg, Keystone …
“Florida’s ‘cold’ is just a gentle reminder that the sun is still out — and that’s enough.” - Unknown  It's official. The summer season has ended, and the brisk air and light …
DYERSVILLE, Iowa – We stood on the infield where “Field of Dreams” was filmed last Friday, when my son broke the silence with a question that made my eyes water. “Hey dad, you wanna have a …
In the Community:

Community Calendar

BLACK CREEK METHODIST PUMPKIN PATCH will be through Oct. 31 at 3925 Main St., in Middleburg. Residents are encouraged to select their perfect pumpkin. Hours are 3:30-8 p.m., Monday through Friday; 10 …

This Week in History

Five years ago, 2021 • Green Cove Springs Police Chief Derek Asdot died after having complications from COVID-19 and pneumonia for more than a month. • Wilkinson Elementary’s Lorraine Evatt won …

Ask Kyla:

What's replacing Bojangles on Blanding Boulevard?

ORANGE PARK —   It looks like Parker's Kitchen may soon be coming to 492 Blanding Blvd., as the former Bojangles restaurant was recently demolished. According to building permits, the …

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CRIME & SAFETY
Police briefs
Name, age, location of arrest, charges). Key: FTA-Failure to Appear; DWLSR-Driving Without a License-Suspended or Revoked; DUI-Driving Under the Influence; VOP-Violation of Probation; BAL-blood …
GREEN COVE SPRINGS – A woman inmate at the Clay County Jail died on Saturday, Sept. 19, despite lifesaving efforts by members of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue. Cecilia Rae …

Police Briefs

Galen Kimble Wright

Man ‘remorseful’ after CCSO finds child pornography on his phone   MIDDLEBURG – A 24-year-old man showed remorse after Clay County Sheriff’s Office investigators said they found child …

And in Sports....

Broncos score 58, Eagles 42, Raiders 35 on Friday

Fleming Island senior Sebastian Cruz busted a 75-yard touchdown return, but the spectacular play was negated by a penalty flag.
Middleburg High scored 58 points in a 58-14 blowout of Westside High in Game 1 at Westside High, while Fleming Island had to hold off a second-half charge by Clay to win 42-20 in a county rivalry …

Thomas boots Keystone Heights to OT upset win

Keystone Heights kicker Ryder Thomas (90) scored the game-winning field goal in overtime to beat previously unbeaten Bell, 16-13.

BELL - Keystone Heights kicker Ryder Thomas nailed a 21-yard field goal in overtime to finish off a 16-13 road upset win by the Indians over previously unbeaten Bell High Friday night in front of a …

FLEMING ISLAND - Fleming Island’s defense never gave Ridgeview a chance to get comfortable, while a dominant rushing attack allowed the Golden Eagles to control the game from start to finish in a …

HS Football Highlights

Middleburg High's offense did not miss a beat without starting quarterback Dalton Motes last Friday. Running back Sam Craven, Braydon Ventura and CJ Williams filled in admirably in a 42-8 district win over Ridgeview. Middleburg has a BYE week, followed by three consecutive games against Orange Park, Fleming Island and Clay. Ridgeview has Paxon on Friday with three district games to follow against St. Augustine, Clay and Orange Park.

Week Seven Friday, Oct. 2 Middleburg, Clay, Fleming Island, Orange Park BYE Ed White at Oakleaf: Ed White quarterback King Boylston was a definite impact player in last year's Oakleaf win. The …

The Clay County YMCA – For A Better Community

First Coast YMCA-Our DayStar Program

At DayStar, we are committed to ensuring everyone reaches their full potential with dignity while providing individuals access to the unique support they need.

Daystar is committed to providing nurturing care to adults with disabilities in a day training environment so they can live as happily as possible. Our goal is to stimulate not only their intellectual and physical skills, but will also meet their spiritual and emotional needs. Daystar services include: . . .

BRIEFS

Community Briefs

Celebrate America 250 with county on Oct. 14 at Historic Triangle   GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The community is invited to the Clay County America 250 Celebration on Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at …

7-Eleven celebrates grand opening of new Middleburg store

MIDDLEBURG - The day was fueled with joy and celebration on Friday, Sept. 18, as the Middleburg 7-Eleven team cut the ribbon on their newest location. In addition to fresh gas pumps, snacks and cold …

Town of Orange Park approves final millage rate, budget for fiscal year

ORANGE PARK —   The Town of Orange Park adopted a 5.90 millage rate for the new fiscal year with a 5-0 vote on Tuesday evening. After weeks of budgeting sessions, the town arrived at the …

Community Briefs

Clay musician Brandon Leino to perform at September Porch Fest GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Local musician Brandon Leino will perform at the Green Cove Springs Preservation Society’s September Porch Fest …

Orange Park woman celebrates 96 years with family, love

ORANGE PARK - Family and friends of Louise Brister Jones Tobler honored her with a special party on Saturday, Aug. 8, in celebration of her 96th birthday. Tobler was born in Jasper but has lived in …

Orange Park Library celebrates 50 years of reading, community

ORANGE PARK — The Orange Park Library celebrated 50 years of reading, learning and building community on Monday. The Historical Society of Orange Park, Friends of the Orange Park Library, Clay …

Community Briefs

Sheriff’s Office, Fire Rescue, School District pushes E-Bike safety CLAY COUNTY – As students return to school and the popularity of electric bicycles and electric scooters continues to grow, …

Special Sections
LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS
Michelle Smith creates wellness through aesthetics, skin care and weight loss.
Michelle Smith dedicated to a holistic treatment of mind, body
FLEMING ISLAND – After a successful career as a surgical assistant, Michelle Smith decided to branch out on a more holistic and natural approach to wellness. Glow Wellness and Rejuvenation was …
Sweet treats, delicacies live boldly at pop-up dessert cart
FLEMING ISLAND  –  It's   small,  blue,  colorful and  filled with special treats. Can you guess   what it may be? Salty Air Treats i s   open every weekend …
The Bakery II thrives off of customer feedback.
Local bakery reimagines generational family recipes into fresh favorites
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS— Everything at the Bakery II is made with customers in mind.  That means it's baked with love, cooked to perfection and served to the …
In addition to a full array of beauty, cosmetic and luxury needs, Chad's Beauty Bar also accepts online reservations on his Facebook page.
Stylist invests in trims, coloring, styling at new salon on Wells Road
ORANGE PARK – Chad Eagan was concerned when he broke away from the safety and financial security of working for an owner of one of the most successful salons. But deep down, he decided to invest in the only thing guaranteed to payoff – himself. He opened Chad’s Beauty Bar at 1801 Wells Road, and he quickly learned success travels well. “Anytime you make a change, it’s always scary,” he said in between a steady flow of regulars who also made the move with him. "But I knew it was the right move, and I knew it would work out. I just had faith and put one foot in front of the other, and it took off running.”
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MoonBabies Children's Resale is located at 865 Hibernia Road, Suite 105, on Fleming Island.
Baby safety revered every day at local children's store
FLEMING ISLAND  — Prioritizing baby safety is never a question at MoonBabies Children's Resale.  That means double- and triple-checking for safety recalls, and educating new and expecting …
There is a unique inventory available in the store, from sparkling jewelry and cozy home decorations to locally sourced honey.
Shopping tells a charming story at local thrift store
FLEMING ISLAND  —   On U.S. Highway 17 lies Hive and Seek Boutique, where every corner tells a story. From vintage items imported straight from Ireland to art sourced from just across …
Web extra content
How to stay healthier this year: Schedule your flu shot
(BPT) - It's that time of year again: Temperatures are dropping, kids are heading back to school — and cold and flu season isn't far behind. To help you and your family stay healthier this fall …
Running a small business means making sacrifices. Are they permanent?
Rocket Lawyer reports that small business owners often sacrifice time and income for flexibility and control, but these sacrifices can become permanent if not reassessed.
9 reasons your prescription may not be filled, and what to do about it
GoodRx reports nine reasons a pharmacist may not fill a prescription, including missing information, drug shortages, and insurance issues, along with solutions to prevent delays.
Sequoia Grove Winery’s playbook for elevating game day entertaining
(BPT) - For decades, hosting a football game meant the same thing: buffalo wings, a bowl of dip and a cooler of canned beer. But as the sport has evolved over the past 30 years, your Sunday spreads …
Unwrapping Holiday Shopping: What 44 Billion Emails Reveal About When Consumers Really Buy
Unwrapping Holiday Shopping: What 44 Billion Emails Reveal About When Consumers Really Buy
(NewsUSA) - Analysis of more than 44 billion emails and 83 million text messages uncovers surprising patterns in when holiday shoppers buy, and what brings them backBlack Friday and Cyber Monday …