Partly Cloudy, 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 …

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 …

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 …

ASK KYLA

What's with the new hotel near Brannan Field and Blanding?

MIDDLEBURG — That new hotel is the ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham, and it officially opened the doors to its Middleburg location in September. The new extended stay hotel rooms, located at …

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 …

7 simple ways to be ready for the next natural disaster

I’ve experienced earthquakes and hurricanes, so I know how quickly an ordinary day can become chaotic. In 2024, Hurricane Helene hit my community. Although we were fortunate not to experience the …

In remembrance of 9/11: Have we forgotten?

On September 11, 2001, our nation experienced a tragedy that reshaped the American soul. Nearly 3,000 lives were taken in those cowardice terrorist attacks carried out by Al-Qaeda. They are a violent …

Katrina Fennelly accepted a certificate of recognition for the July Hometown Heroes Award. She and her family volunteer with Rising Stars: Guitars for Kids.

Family of volunteers makes noise with Rising Stars: Guitars for Kids

CLAY COUNTY — For Katrina Fennelly, the power of music is strong. It defies all odds, brings people together and emits a joy like no other. That's why her and her family have never …

Food tastes better when it reminds us of the past

“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” – Alan D. Wolfelt I found myself waiting in line early Tuesday morning to try Chick Fil A’s new chicken and …

Main character energy and cold pizza: More of my unpopular opinions

"I speak my mind, because it hurts when I bite my tongue."- Unknown Now, I did tell you there would be a part two, because...why not? In a world where having an unpopular opinion or two is breaking …

Health

The pros and cons of being a surrogate

Circle Surrogacy reports that becoming a gestational surrogate is a personal choice involving emotional, financial, and time commitments, requiring careful consideration.

The states facing the biggest Medicare shake-up this enrollment season

MediaAlpha reports that Medicare's enrollment season sees significant plan exits, especially in states like Vermont and New Hampshire, forcing many beneficiaries to seek new coverage options.

From tap to table: Practical ways to limit microplastic exposure at home

Culligan reports practical ways to limit microplastic exposure at home, suggesting the use of glass containers, regular cleaning, and certified water filters.

12 supplements to take in fall

Life Extension reports that as autumn approaches, shorter days and less sunlight can disrupt sleep, mood, and immune function.

Beyond the peptide hype: Which treatments have FDA approval?

GoodRx reports that FDA-approved peptides have undergone safety and effectiveness testing, while unapproved wellness peptides lack such evidence, posing risks.

Is the ADHD tax real? Experts say yes, and share 5 ways to rein it in

Thriveworks reports the "ADHD tax" is real, costing individuals money due to impulsivity and forgetfulness. Experts suggest five strategies to mitigate it.

Instacart's Halloween report: Reese's is No.1, regional candy quirks and the iconic banana costume

Instacart reports that Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are the top Halloween candy in 40 states, with regional quirks like HI-CHEW in Montana.

A baker’s surprising ingredient: Mayonnaise

Hellmann's reports that mayonnaise can enhance baking by replacing eggs, oil, or butter, adding moisture and rich flavor while ensuring tender textures in cakes, cookies, and breads.

Are GLP-1 users eating out less, or just ordering less?

Toast reports that 11% of U.S. adults now use GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Users eat out less, order smaller portions, and prefer healthier options.

What are the best fruits and vegetables to try on the grill this fall?

Wildfire Outdoor Living reports that fall is ideal for grilling seasonal produce like apples, squash, and Brussels sprouts, showcasing delicious autumn flavors.