Skip to main content

weather icon
Clear, 79°
Weather sponsored by:
LIFE

Art Guild Gallery continues to hone in on diverse, local talents

The Art Guild Gallery is located at 440 McIntosh Ave. in Orange Park.
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 …

How artist Mark Szwabo found his canvas in Green Cove Springs

GREEN COVE SPRINGS — As the morning mist lingers over the St. Johns River and the first light filters through the ancient live oaks, Spring Park quietly wakes up. Joggers pass by, birds settle on …

More of my unpopular opinions: Thanksgiving Edition

"Thanksgiving —when the people who are the most thankful are the ones who didn't have to cook." —Melanie White It's officially everyone's favorite time of the year. The weather is cooling down …

What does 'Romeo & Juliet' teach about love?

Last year in 9th grade, my daughter’s English teacher, Mrs. Thea Burke, had the class read "Romeo and Juliet." Many of us have read it or know of this “love story.” However, Mrs. Burke told me …

The beauty and necessity of change: Lessons from autumn

It’s that time of year again. I joke with all those folks who go up to the mountains to see the changing of the leaves. I ask what kind of person pays good money for a cabin to watch trees die? …

Does following Jesus mean missing out?

Some people quietly wonder if choosing Jesus means choosing a less exciting life. Maybe you’ve felt it too: the pressure to blend in, to chase every opportunity and to experience everything the …

ASK KYLA

What happened to Wendy's on Park Avenue?

ORANGE PARK - After filing for bankruptcy, Wendy's has decided to close several locations across the country. Including its longtime location at 753 Park Ave. According to Usearch.com, the restaurant …

Protecting our schools, retaining our teachers: The facts on the millage renewal
As your elected Superintendent, but more importantly, as a fellow citizen, taxpayer and neighbor here in Clay County, I believe in the power of our community to make informed decisions. As we …
My day as a deputy gave me a new sense of appreciation
“Courage is the quiet decision to stand between danger and the people you serve.” – Capt. James Carter When I walked into Grace Anglican Church on Thursday, Sept. 24, I didn’t know exactly …
How vision changes with age—and what you can do about it
As we get older, changes in vision are common, but they should not simply be accepted as an unavoidable part of aging. Difficulty seeing in low light, trouble judging distances or needing more light …
Don't let awareness become anxiety
There is something happening in our world that is hard to ignore. Every day we hear about wars, international conflicts, moral confusion, economic uncertainty, natural disasters and a growing sense …
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 …
Old Testament God vs. New Testament God
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 …
Letter to the Editor
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 …
It’s a beautiful world because it's still God's world
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 …
The heat is putting a damper on my fall plans
“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 …
It's best to just let them play
I feel happy when I see my children immersed in play and creative endeavors - such as when my 15-year-old daughter is intently reconstructing her bedroom out of Legos, or when my adolescent daughters …
Health

Gathering for Thanksgiving? Help Keep Flu Off the Guest List

You can help protect yourself and your family from the flu this Thanksgiving.
(NAPSI)—With 74% of Americans planning to gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving this year, according to Pew Research Center, there’s one important step to take before getting together: …
Meds are often the go-to for dementia patients. Is there a better way?
Knowable Magazine reports that dementia patients often receive antipsychotics instead of non-drug approaches for behavioral issues, risking health and well-being.
Survey: Weird perimenopause symptoms women never saw coming: Itchy ears, B.O., and more
Hone Health reports a survey of 660 women revealing unexpected perimenopause symptoms like itchy ears, hair changes, and frozen shoulder, highlighting hormonal impacts.
A Navy medical center is testing a supplement for chronic pain against a placebo
Neurogan Health reports a Navy trial is testing palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) for chronic pain. 

What causes a food coma, and how to beat it this Thanksgiving

Naturepedic reports that food comas, or postprandial somnolence, occur after large meals, causing drowsiness.

America’s biggest measles outbreaks have very different death tolls. Why?

Healthbeat reports on the varying death tolls of recent measles outbreaks in Pennsylvania and South Carolina, with demographic factors influencing outcomes.

5 unique Thanksgiving main dishes to make on the grill

Wildfire Outdoor Living reports on unique Thanksgiving grilling recipes from Wildfire Outdoor Living, featuring dishes like Five-Spice Rotisserie Pork and Blackened Tri-Tip.
Thanksgiving Turkey Report: Tuesday is bird day and frozen fans plan ahead, according to Instacart data
Instacart reports that whole turkey purchases soared 1,651% ahead of Thanksgiving 2025, peaking on Tuesday. Frozen varieties lead in some states, while thermometers saw a 3,589% spike on the holiday.
How to host Thanksgiving on a budget
Current reports on budget-friendly Thanksgiving hosting tips, emphasizing early shopping, free turkeys, and cooking less to minimize expenses during holiday gatherings.
Survey: How restaurant industry workers feel about pay, tips, benefits, and AI
Toast reports a survey indicating increased pay and benefits satisfaction among restaurant employees, with 67% satisfied with pay, up 12 points from 2025.
What causes a food coma, and how to beat it this Thanksgiving
Naturepedic reports that food comas, or postprandial somnolence, occur after large meals, causing drowsiness.
How to host a winning backyard tailgate: Game day recipes and homegating inspiration
Wildfire Outdoor Living reports on hosting a backyard tailgate with game day recipes, featuring grilled buffalo wings, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, and more.
Pet coverage from around the web

The ultimate guide to Halloween dog safety: Treats, tricks, and peace of mind

Ollie reports key Halloween safety tips for dogs, including managing door traffic, securing candy, choosing safe costumes, and knowing when to call a vet.

What is the best meat for dogs? Healthiest dog food protein options

Ollie reports on the best meats for dogs, emphasizing high-quality options like chicken, beef, salmon, and turkey for balanced nutrition. 

How to dog-proof your car

Husky Liners reports on dog-proofing your car with tips like using custom floor liners, seat covers, and cleaning hacks to keep vehicles safe from muddy paws and fur.
Studies show that dogs help humans cope with stress.

A new study finds that dogs’ mitigation of human stress is more biologically complex than scientists previously understood.
Podcasts about pets

Dog talk ... and more

Every dog lover's resource for keeping yourself & your best friend happy, healthy and long living - naturally. Listen in to Dr. Peter Dobias weekly to find out how both you and your furry friend …

Purrr-fectly enjoyable

In these cat podcasts, learn everything there is to know about cats on Cattitude with your hosts Michelle Fern & Tom Dock. In this cat podcast, each week we’ll spotlight a cool cat breed, …

No Bad Dogs Podcast

Hey, there dog folk! Welcome to the No Bad Dogs Podcast, hosted by Tom Davis. Do you often wonder what your dog is thinking? Join Tom as he teams up with dog trainers, dog lovers, dog …