Community

Redefining Men’s Retail Experience The world of men’s fashion has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years, and with it, a new term has emerged to describe a unique breed of stores: the “bro-tique.” Combining the words “bro” and “boutique,” this catchy nickname perfectly encapsulates the essence of a new...

By Liesel Schmidt Shopping for the special guy in your life can feel like a daunting task. But, it doesn’t have to be—even if you’ve got one of those “I don’t need anything” types who already seems to have everything he could possibly need. (Guys: You know who you are!)...

Gift an Experience! CRYO850 Performance and Recovery Center Consider the gift of a new experience for those you love this season. Locally owned CRYO850 is now offering “Experiences” for everyone on your list for as low as $50. Try the Fire and Ice Experience for Cryo + Red Light ($50),...

Support the Communities You Love by Shopping Local for the Holidays By Will Estell We’ve all heard the benefits over-and-over, from social memes to chamber advertising to local news outlets. But do we really shop local as much as we could and should? It’s no secret that many of our friends and...

By “Doc” Doug Stauffer Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has appointed County Commissioner Mel Ponder as its next president. Known for his unwavering dedication to Okaloosa County and his tireless commitment to public service, Ponder’s selection promises a new chapter for the college and for the students it serves. Ponder’s appointment marks...

By Christopher Manson Good news! There are plenty of opportunities to be a Hometown Hero this holiday season by donating, volunteering or simply spreading the good word about our local nonprofits. Here are just a few ways you can make the holidays a lot brighter for those in need: Harvest House...

Tamara L. Young, PhD, Public Information Director This time, the Mayor and I sat down to share the latest on the underground utilities conversion project. We appreciate everyone’s patience with the stretch of Hwy. 98 being worked on presently! TY: Our underground utilities project kicked off in November. This will not...

By Margaret Zonia Morrison Are you seeing visions of sugarplums dancing in your head? Are you anticipating the patter of tiny hooves on the roof? Perhaps you may enhance your excitement about the holidays by taking a trip to Eden Gardens State Park. Not only will you be able to enjoy...

Alaqua Animal Refuge is urgently seeking public support to continue providing life-saving care for animals displaced by Hurricane Milton. While national animal welfare organizations have stepped in with emergency grants, food and bedding, Alaqua remains in critical need of monetary donations, volunteers, fosters and adopters to sustain the ongoing...

By Lori Leath Smith, Publisher “Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” — Charles Dickens A sunset over the Bay; schools where parents are involved and teachers are impeccable; community parks with so much to offer; a business...