[[{“value”:” As the calendar turns to January, many people feel a renewed sense of motivation and possibility. The start of a new year naturally encourages fresh goals and positive habits, making January an ideal time to begin music lessons. Whether you’re a parent considering lessons for your child or an adult finally ready to pursue a long-held musical dream, January offers several unique advantages that can set you up for long-term success. One of the biggest benefits of starting music lessons in January is the mindset that comes with the new year. After the reflective pause of the holidays, people often feel more focused and ready to commit to structured routines. Music study thrives on consistency, and January is a time when schedules tend to stabilize. With holiday travel over and fewer disruptions, it’s easier to establish a regular practice schedule and weekly lesson time, which are essential for steady progress. January also provides a clean slate for goal-setting. Beginning lessons at the start of the year allows students to set clear, achievable musical goals and track their progress over the coming months. For children, this might mean mastering basic technique or preparing for a recital later in the year. For adults, it could be learning to read music, playing favorite songs, or gaining the confidence to perform for others. Starting in January makes it natural to measure improvement as the year unfolds, which can be highly motivating. Another advantage is the extended runway before busy seasons arrive. Students who... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Danica LaFaire, FISH Window Cleaning January has a way of making people feel like they’re already behind. The holidays are over, routines are settling back in, and suddenly we’re surrounded by messages about transformation — new goals, new habits, new versions of ourselves. But most meaningful progress doesn’t come from one big push at the start of the year. It comes from something far less glamorous: maintenance. Maintenance doesn’t get much credit. It’s quiet, repetitive, and often invisible. Yet it is what keeps homes comfortable, businesses running, bodies healthy, finances stable, and confidence intact. Small actions, taken consistently over time, don’t just prevent problems — they build trust in ourselves and in the systems we rely on. I see this principle every day in my work. In window cleaning, maintenance is everything. Glass that is cared for regularly stays clear and intact for years. When it’s ignored, small issues compound — mineral buildup, corrosion, permanent damage. Rarely is there one moment when things suddenly go wrong. More often, it is what wasn’t done consistently that creates the problem. That same truth shows up across our community. Take Executive Air Cooling, Heating and Refrigeration, for example. Most people don’t think about their HVAC system until it stops working — usually on the hottest or coldest day of the year. But regular maintenance is what prevents those emergencies. Industry data shows that well-maintained HVAC systems can operate up to 15% more efficiently and reduce overall repair costs by as much... Read More

 [[{“value”:” Sinfonia Gulf Coast has announced the lineup for its highly anticipated annual fundraiser, Crescendo!: A Cultural & Culinary Extravaganza, a three-day celebration blending world-class music, fine dining and community philanthropy. Set for Jan. 23, Feb. 27 and March 1, 2026, Crescendo! is expected to be a highlight of the Northwest Florida social season. The festivities begin Friday, Jan. 23, at 11 a.m. with the Crescendo! Kick Off Lunch in the Juniper Ballroom at Hotel Effie in Miramar Beach. Dubbed Bubbles, Bourbon + More, the stylish afternoon offers high tea-inspired vibes with lunch, champagne, wine and bourbon craft cocktails, a live DJ, and a curated fashion experience featuring Balmain. Guests will also enjoy an exclusive shopping experience in the Balmain Lounge. Tickets are $175 per person and include lunch, beverages and gratuities. Early reservations are encouraged, as the event typically sells out. Crescendo! weekend continues Friday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. with a series of intimate Vintner Dinners hosted in private homes and elegant venues throughout the Emerald Coast. These curated evenings pair acclaimed local and national chefs with prestigious wineries for a multi-course culinary experience. Participating vineyards include Opus One Winery, Promontory, Groth Estates, AXR, Reynolds Family Winery, Mondavi Sisters Wine and others, with additional culinary talent announcements forthcoming. Vintner Dinner tickets are $500 per person and include all food, wine and gratuities. The centerpiece of the weekend, the Crescendo! Main Event, takes place Sunday, March 1, at 3 p.m. in the Magnolia Ballroom at Sandestin Golf and Beach... Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The weather didn’t stop the Krewe of St. Andrew’s from hosting their “12th Night and Blessing of the Floats” on Friday evening. This day marks the twelfth night after Christmas and the Feast of the Epiphany A ceremonial King Cake was cut; According to tradition, this is the night the three […] Read More

Quick Thinking Shields Family as Police Close In on Fleeing Suspect Staff Reports January 9, 2026 10:01 pm Crime, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Public Safety In Brief: A suspect was arrested after an attempted carjacking involving a woman and her children escalated into multiple felonies. Law enforcement from OCSO and FWBPD coordinated to locate the stolen vehicle and apprehend the suspect. No injuries were reported, and the suspect now faces several felony charges. A rapid, coordinated response between the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Walton Beach Police Department led to the arrest of a Fort Walton Beach man following a dangerous series of crimes that included an attempted carjacking, a stolen vehicle, and a residential burglary. According to authorities, Fort Walton Beach Police officers were actively searching for a reported stolen vehicle late last night when Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deputies spotted the car near the intersection of Kenneth Drive and Bob Sikes Boulevard. Deputies were able to quickly locate the suspect after he entered a nearby home while attempting to evade law enforcement. The suspect was identified as 30-year-old Matthew Teems of Fort Walton Beach. Investigators say the incident began earlier when Teems allegedly attempted to forcibly enter a running vehicle at a Fort Walton Beach-area residence. The vehicle was occupied by a woman and her two small children. Fearing for their safety, the woman was able to escape the vehicle and call 911. Authorities say Teems fled the scene in a stolen vehicle, prompting a... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Clint Gharib As so often is the case, history provides some valuable perspective and possible lessons. I’ve been advising clients for over 36 years and have lived through two of the worst bear markets and two of the biggest bull markets ever. I find it interesting that scars from bad experiences seem to leave deeper marks on our psyche than positive ones. Maybe this is why so many repeatedly make the mistake of thinking the next bear market will be like the last one, which has not been the case so far since they started tracking the S&P 500.  Since the US market bottomed after the 2008 financial crisis, an ever-growing crowd of “market prognosticators” has warned at any hint of even the slightest trouble that a 2008 doomsday is around the corner.  Since 2009, there have been continuous warnings of the next crash. ‘Even a broken clock is right twice a day’   Remember in 2010, there was a 16% correction market intraday lows.  During the Euro debt crisis of 2011, meltdown S&P 500 lost roughly 17% and there were numerous headlines saying that it could be worse than 2008 crisis.  Recall the 2013 bond selloff (a.k.a. taper tantrum) when bond traders panicked from Ben Bernanke’s speech that “the Fed was going to stop buying bonds since the US was stronger now.”  In that Market Update, I said: “analysts were misreading Mr. Bernanke’s message and acting like he was going to sell bonds rather than just stop buying them.”  The month-long double-digit selloff... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Kyle Sparks – Ovation Painting – Big projects. Beautiful results. Done right. After the whirlwind of the holidays, January brings a quieter pace along the Emerald Coast. The guests have gone home, schedules settle, and life finally slows down. That calm stretch makes it the perfect time to tackle bigger home projects — the ones that are easy to put off when things get busy. Interior painting often tops that list. During the winter months, humidity drops and paint cures more evenly, producing a smooth, lasting finish. With fewer distractions, it’s easier to focus on transforming entire spaces instead of piecemeal touch-ups. A full-home repaint now means you’ll start the new year with clean walls, sharp trim, and rooms that feel refreshed and ready for daily life. This is also an ideal time to address updates that make your home more comfortable for the year ahead. Whether it’s finally giving attention to that high-traffic hallway, brightening a dark living room, or repainting a space you’ve been meaning to reclaim, winter offers the breathing room to make it happen without interruption. For property managers and owners of vacation rentals, January’s slower pace is an advantage, too. With fewer guests and open schedules, this is the perfect time to refresh interiors and prepare for the spring rush. When it’s cold outside, investing in your interior is one of the smartest ways to use the season. By the time warmer weather and busier days return, your home will already look and... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Maranda Shaye Smith Imagine just entering parenthood, facing the challenge of balancing a new baby with mounting bills and little support. Whether a pregnancy comes as a surprise or right on time, stepping into that moment can feel overwhelming. Questions, fears and practical needs often rise quickly—especially for those navigating the journey without a strong support system. When life takes an unexpected turn, Lauren’s Legacy Pregnancy Center, right here in our area, stands ready to walk beside those facing uncertainty. Serving women and families across Walton and Okaloosa counties, the center provides free, confidential services including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting programs, counseling and assistance connecting with community resources. What began as a tribute of love and remembrance has grown into a cornerstone of compassion and care—meeting physical, emotional and spiritual needs at every step. Executive Director Stacey Reed describes it best, “This is a safe place for women to discuss their options and feel supported. Every story matters here.” Rooted in Love and Legacy Lauren’s Legacy was founded in memory of a young woman whose life continues to touch others through her family’s vision of turning loss into purpose. Lauren was known for her compassionate heart and steadfast faith, someone who naturally reached out to help others in need. After her passing, her family turned their grief into purpose, creating a place that would carry on her spirit of love and service. 1 of 6 Lauren’s Legacy now stands as a reflection of who she was, offering hope... Read More

 [[{“value”:” Green Thumb Garden Club, Inc. was founded on January 10, 1956, as the Green Thumb Garden Club of Santa Rosa Beach, FL.  The Club was federated on February 3, 1959, and incorporated on May 21, 2019. Green Thumb’s key purpose is to stimulate interest in the beautification of Walton County, to further the education of our members and the public in fields of gardening, horticulture, botany, floral design, environmental awareness, conservation of natural resources, civic beautification, nature studies, and to instill in our youth the love of gardening and respect for the environment. GTGC’s generous members and the support received from the local community enable the annual award of multiple scholarships and support for other non-profit organizations in Walton County. The January 21, 2026, monthly member meeting will be a celebration of Green Thumb Garden Club’s 70th Platinum anniversary.  TV personality, meteorologist Chris Smith, is the guest speaker.  Chris has decades of weather forecasting experience and recently founded Panhandle Weather. The venue is Westwinds Conference Center, 4700 Westwinds Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550.  Cost is $30 (cash/check); $32. (credit card).  A special lunch is being planned, and attendees are requested to wear party attire. GTGC is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with 100+Members and growing! New members are always welcome.  Please visit the Green Thumb Garden Club website to learn more about our charitable mission, how to join and details on meetings, activities, and events. The website address is greenthumbgardenclubinc.org or send an email to greenthumbgardenclubinc@gmail.com. The post Green... Read More

 [[{“value”:” For locals accustomed to sugar-white sand, emerald water and harbor sunsets, one of Northwest Florida’s most extraordinary natural landscapes lies just inland — and closer than many realize. This Valentine’s Day, locals are invited to explore that wilder side of Florida during IDIDAHIKE 2026, hosted by the Choctawhatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association. Set for Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, the annual event brings hikers, families and outdoor enthusiasts together for a day of guided exploration through the Nokuse Land Conservancy, a protected expanse of more than 55,000 acres of longleaf pine forests, wetlands and wildlife habitat stretching across Walton and Okaloosa counties. For those who spend most days on the water, IDIDAHIKE offers a refreshing change of scenery — an opportunity to step off the beach and into an inland landscape that plays a vital role in conservation efforts statewide. A Regional Treasure with Statewide Importance Nokuse — a Creek word meaning “bear” — is a cornerstone of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, providing critical habitat for Florida black bears, gopher tortoises and countless other native species. Its preserved landscape safeguards ecosystems that once dominated the Southeast and are now increasingly rare. Winding through Nokuse is the Florida National Scenic Trail, one of only 11 national scenic trails in the country. Nearly 28 miles of the trail pass through the preserve and are maintained by dedicated volunteers from the Florida Trail Association, including members of the Choctawhatchee Chapter who live and work throughout Okaloosa and Walton counties. IDIDAHIKE highlights... Read More