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LIFE

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

ASK KYLA

What is replacing Sears at the Orange Park Mall?

ORANGE PARK –  Sprouts Farmers Market will be the first tenant for the former Sears store at the Orange Park Mall. The demolition of the 189,796 square-foot  retail store, which …

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 …
Preserving the value of Clay County Extension
Clay County residents may not be fully aware that our County Extension Office is currently facing proposed funding reductions. While periodic budget reviews are an important part of responsible local …
Tracking your blessings
We live in a world buzzing with noise, pressure and distraction. Many people move through their days unaware of the quiet stream of blessings flowing around them. A lot of Christians are blessed far …
Dick Dulaney strives to make Penney a place where neighbors are family
PENNEY FARMS  —   As Penney Retirement Community celebrates its centennial year, Dick Dulaney is detailing his role in making the campus a place where neighbors are family and every …
Is your child’s vision ready for school? Signs parents often miss
As families prepare for a new school year, most back-to-school checklists include supplies, new clothes, and sports physicals. One item that is often overlooked is a comprehensive eye exam. Yet …
What makes Christianity different from other religions?
With so many belief systems in the world, it's natural to ask: What sets Christianity apart? Don’t all religions point to the same God? Aren’t they all about being a good person and trying to …
'I'm asking for a friend...'
I couldn’t tell you how many times through the years, I’ve been approached by someone who has a difficult and maybe even life changing question to present to me for advice. But before they ever …
Libraries and bookstores are essential, even in a digital age
“The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.”  — Albert Einstein   There was once a time when   characters   used   to jump   …
Health

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.
What can you drink while fasting?
LMNT reports that during fasting, one can drink low- or no-calorie beverages like water, black coffee, and plain tea without breaking the fast.
What to say (and what not to say) when a loved one has breast cancer
Northwell Health reports on how to support a loved one diagnosed with breast cancer, highlighting what to say and what to avoid to provide meaningful comfort.
Six Canadian provinces trail every U.S. state on family caregiver supply
Life Assure reports on the caregiver shortage, noting Canada has 2.86 adults aged 45-64 per senior 75+, down from the U.S.'s 3.53, with several provinces trailing even Hawaii in caregiver supply.
Burnout isn't just a buzzword: Why workers are reaching a breaking point
BetterHelp reports that burnout is a significant issue in the workplace, impacting employee well-being and job satisfaction due to chronic stress.
Is it ADHD, perimenopause… or both?
Understood reports on distinguishing between ADHD and perimenopause symptoms, highlighting overlapping issues like sleep problems and brain fog.
Can an online quiz really tell you if you have ADHD? Experts say not quite
LifeStance Health reports that online ADHD tests can quickly identify symptoms but aren't reliable for diagnosis due to high false-positive rates.

Why young people are turning to peers for mental health support

OK Today reports that 47% of young people prefer talking to peers for mental health support, yet many lack the skills to handle such discussions.

Recognizing and shifting ADHD procrastination

Rula reports that procrastination is common among those with ADHD, often caused by executive function difficulties rather than laziness. 

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 …

3 reasons artichokes should be the star of your next meal

(BPT) - Are you trying to add more whole foods and vegetables to your diet? Consider an often overlooked option: fresh artichokes. This Mediterranean diet staple is a delicious and nutritious option …
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.
Sweet, spicy, and a little spooky: Halloween shopping trends projected from DoorDash data
DoorDash reports Halloween candy trends for 2026, revealing Reese's remains top, Haribo ascends, and old-school candies are back. 
Top local coffee shops for National Coffee Day, according to DoorDash data
DoorDash reports on top local coffee shops for National Coffee Day Sept. 29, featuring small cafes with high ratings from 2025-2026.
Bouillon vs. broth vs. stock: What are the key differences?
Knorr reports that stock, broth, and bouillon differ in preparation and concentration. 
Survey: Are guests losing patience with restaurant price increases?
Toast reports that rising restaurant prices have led to increased guest skepticism, with only 18% in 2026 finding price hikes justified, down from 41% in 2024.
4 grilling recipes for a memorable Labor Day barbecue
Wildfire Outdoor Living reports four grilling recipes for a memorable Labor Day barbecue, featuring blackened tri-tip, lemon herb chicken skewers, grilled potatoes, and corn salad.

Enjoy Tangy, Spicy Buffalo Chicken with a Superfood Swap

(Feature Impact) When you're craving a specific comfort food, other flavors just aren't going to hit the spot the same way.

5 Easy Sheet Pan Meals with a Grape Upgrade

(Feature Impact) Sheet pan cooking makes weeknight meals wonderfully easy - and fresh grapes give them an unexpected upgrade. From satisfying dinners and sides to a crowd-pleasing dessert, these recipes bring something unexpected to the sheet pan without adding extra fuss.

5 Habits to Boost Immunity During Cold and Flu Season

(Feature Impact) Your immune system is your strongest ally during cold and flu season, working hard to keep you healthy as you start hearing those telltale coughs and sneezes all around. Help your body do its job well by adopting a few simple habits and recipes like California Grape Wellness Juice that naturally support its ability to fight off germs or recover faster.

Pet coverage from around the web

What ingredients to look for in fresh dog food

Ollie reports that fresh dog food prioritizes real, recognizable ingredients like human-grade meats, vegetables, and healthy fats, ensuring quality and transparency.

How to manage the rising costs of being a pet parent

Current reports on managing rising costs as a pet parent, noting expenses for caring for pets range widely, with recommendations for emergency funds and insurance.

Uncover your kibble: 5 things to look for in your dog’s food

K9 Natural reports five key factors to consider when choosing dog food: protein quality, digestibility, ingredients, whole-body health, and avoiding unnecessary fillers.
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 …