What an awesome start to the year it has been in terms of fishing and weather. Throughout the bays, shallow grass, and sand flats, the water is teeming with life. Schools of glass minnows, pinfish, bull minnows, and mullet provide excellent forage for speckled trout and redfish. On sunny days, I   Read More

Carly Pearce is finally opening up about the scary injury that knocked out her front teeth a few years ago. The “Dream Come True” singer shared the story in a video posted on Instagram. In the clip, she takes viewers back to Halloween night in 2020, explaining that she fell face-first while walking down a […] More Country Music Nation  Read More

Eglin Celebrates 40 Years of Tradition With Gate-to-Gate Memorial Run Staff Reports February 10, 2026 2:13 pm Eglin Air Force Base, Events, Military In Brief: Who: Eglin Air Force Base, race participants, Samuel King Jr. What: 40th Anniversary Gate-to-Gate Memorial Run/Walk When: May 16, 2026, starting at 7 a.m. Where: Eglin Air Force Base, Florida Why: To celebrate the race’s 40-year history and honor service and community Eglin Air Force Base is marking a milestone this spring with the return of its historic Gate-to-Gate Memorial Run/Walk, celebrating the event’s 40th anniversary on May 16. Base officials announced that registration is now open for the annual race, which will return to its original gate-to-gate format — a 4.4-mile course stretching across Eglin Air Force Base. The anniversary event pays tribute to the race’s origins while continuing its long-standing tradition of honoring service and community. Opening ceremonies will begin at 6:45 a.m., with the race set to start at 7 a.m. Participants may register as individuals or as part of a four-person team, with male, female, and co-ed divisions available. Access requirements will apply for non-Department of War (DoW) attendees and guests. All non-DoW participants must be pre-registered to gain access to the installation, and all non-DoW family members and guests must be included during the registration process to complete required security checks. Registration costs $50 through April 19 for all participants. The fee increases to $60 from April 20 through April 30. The registration deadline for non-DoW attendees is April 30.... Read More

Valparaiso Fast-Tracks $200,000 Overhaul of Mold-Plagued Fire Station Staff Reports February 10, 2026 2:07 pm Valparaiso In Brief: City authorizes up to $200,000 for emergency fire station repairs Mold, roof damage, and HVAC failures prompted urgent action Repairs expected to restore full habitability and safety within months The City of Valparaiso has approved a resolution setting aside authorizing expenditures not to exceed $200,000 to address critical structural, HVAC, and mold issues at the city’s fire station. The repairs will be funded using the city’s half-cent sales tax dedicated to infrastructure and fire safety. During a recent meeting, Mayor Brent Smith and City Administrator Carl Scott briefed the commission on the condition of the fire station and the work required to ensure it remains safe and fully operational for firefighters and the public. Engine Protection and Interim Conditions Mayor Smith reported that, for several months, the department stored its primary fire engine at City Hall on John Sims Parkway, fully charged with water in its pumps and gauges.  A recent cold snap significantly increased the risk of damage to the apparatus, prompting a decision to move the engine back into the fire station to protect vital equipment. Smith also explained that, following multiple mold assessments, an HVAC contractor had removed ductwork and thoroughly cleaned affected areas. Based on these efforts, the building was deemed habitable, and crews have returned to the station. However, conditions remain far from ideal. Officials noted that there is currently no air conditioning on the first floor... Read More