With the onset of hurricane season and the threat of major storms, residents are implementing measures to safeguard their homes and loved ones. By gathering water supplies and making their houses resilient to high winds and flooding, many recognize the significance of being prepared. Nonetheless, locating supplies prior to stores depleting continues to be a frequent difficulty.
Kyle Lawhorn mentioned that his preparation for hurricanes typically includes ensuring his phone is charged and buying sufficient drinking water.

“Make sure our phone is charged,” Lawhorn said. “A couple gallons of water, maybe like a 32 pack or two of bottles.”
Even though Lawhorn hasn’t faced significant hurricane destruction in his region, he recalls witnessing downed trees and power lines in past storms. He remembered his family using sandbags to aid in flood prevention.
Lawhorn mentioned that one of his main difficulties is obtaining supplies when everyone starts getting ready simultaneously.
“Trying to go grocery shopping or just getting the stuff in general to prepare is a nightmare,” Lawhorn said.
Khayeel Bragdon has experienced the dangers of a major hurricane firsthand. During one storm, a large tree narrowly missed his home but damaged his fence.
“The tree just missed our house,” Bragdon said. “Thankfully, it didn’t hit my house. It just broke the fence.”
Even with that experience, Bragdon stated that his preparation routine has stayed consistent. He thinks the greatest obstacle is acquiring necessary supplies before other customers buy them.
Kyle Webster, an employee at Target for around two years, observed a significant rise in customers as hurricanes near.
Webster states that water, canned items, and toilet tissue are some of the most commonly bought products. Water is particularly sought after and may deplete rapidly when locals delay until the final moment.
“Essentially, simply stay ready,” Webster stated. “Attempt to arrive here as quickly as possible.” Most of those supplies tend to disappear quickly, particularly the water.
Webster’s experience illustrates how swiftly the need for essential items can surge prior to a storm.
Although residents encounter various experiences with hurricanes, their worries about obtaining supplies are alike. Getting ready in advance can assist families in steering clear of packed stores and ensuring they possess necessary supplies before the next hurricane comes.

Dedrick Davis is a journalism student at Florida A&M. This story gives him an opportunity to have an article published.

Get ready for an hour of supernatural surprises, witty humor, and a little ghostly chaos as Wakulla Community Theatre presents an abridged version of Noël Coward’s classic comedy, Blithe Spirit. Adapted by Laurence Maslon and directed by Krissy Sanchez, this delightfully spirited production tells the story of Charles Condomine, a successful writer who invites an eccentric medium to his home for what he believes will be an entertaining evening of research.

However, things take an unexpected turn when the séance accidentally summons the ghost of his first wife, Elvira. The trouble? Charles is now happily married to his second wife, Ruth, and Elvira has no intention of quietly returning to the spirit world.
The production features a talented cast of local performers, including Logan Hand as the increasingly frazzled Charles Condomine, Laurel Nichols as his mischievous ghostly first wife, Elvira, and Kathryne Golden as his practical and understandably frustrated second wife, Ruth. Ella Yost takes on the role of the delightfully eccentric medium Madame Arcati, while Liam Henderson and Nevaeh Castellano round out the cast as Dr. and Mrs. Bradman. With its clever dialogue, larger-than-life characters, and comically complicated relationships, Blithe Spirit promises an entertaining theatrical experience for its audiences. Performances will take place November 7 and 8, with two shows each day at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Wakulla Community Theatre, located at 164 Yellow Jacket Ave. in Sopchoppy.
Tickets are $10 per person. Light concessions will be sold before and after the show but no intermission is offered for this performance.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, one thing is certain: this is one hauntingly hilarious production you won’t want to miss!

From The Oseola

Florida State fired coach Mike Norvell on Sunday, a day after a loss at Clemson and one that will cost the school a buyout of $50 million that is among the largest in college football history.
Norvell won 19 straight games from the middle of the 2022 season through an ACC title in December 2023. But the Seminoles went 10-22 since the start of the 2024 season, and Norvell’s hand-picked quarterbacks — DJ Uiagalelei, Tommy Castellanos and Ashton Daniels — all struggled with accuracy.

Florida State is 1-5 vs. Power 4 programs this fall, including Saturday’s 36-24 loss to Clemson in which the Seminoles were a five-point favorite. The Seminoles have not defeated one of their main three rivals (Miami, Florida or Clemson) since the 2023 season.
“We have made the decision to change the leadership of our football program,” FSU president Richard McCullough said in a statement on Sunday afternoon. “We thank Mike Norvell for his commitment and service to Florida State and wish him and his family the very best. We understand the deep passion of Seminole fans and share their high expectations for this program. We are confident in Rick Stockstill’s ability to provide steady leadership during this transition. We will conduct a thorough national search for the program’s next leader, someone who embraces Florida State’s tradition of championship athletics and our standard of excellence.”

At right, Mike Norvell shakes hands with veterans before the start of the Clemson vs. FSU game on Saturday.

PHOTO BY KEN FIELDS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s annual Lionfish Challenge has come to an end, achieving record participation and lionfish removals since program inception, reflecting the growing statewide commitment to controlling invasive lionfish populations.

During the summer-long tournament, a total of 533 registered participants removed 36,187 lionfish over 1,468 dive trips, this is an increase of more than 5,000 lionfish harvested, compared to the 2025 challenge.

“The record-breaking success of the Lionfish Challenge demonstrates the powerful conservation impact of collective action,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “By removing 36,187 invasive lionfish from Florida’s waters, participants are helping reduce pressure on native marine species, protect biodiversity, and preserve the health of our precious marine ecosystems. This achievement reflects Florida’s growing commitment to safeguarding our underwater resources for future generations.”

Each year, winners of the challenge are selected across multiple categories. The FWC expanded this year’s competition to recognize six champions: Lionfish King, Lionfish Queen, Commercial Champion, Junior Champion, Veteran Champion, and Top Checkpoint. Six winners, six titles and thousands of lionfish removed!

This year’s winners:

• Lionfish King: Hunter Ledbetter of Monroe County secured the title with 1,541 lionfish removed.

• Lionfish Queen: Helen Rodney of Broward County earned the title by harvesting 1,488 lionfish.

• Commercial Champion: David Garrett of Volusia County removed 1,136 pounds of lionfish.

• Junior Champion: Meagan Huffman of Texas removed 185 lionfish.

• Veteran Champion: Ledbetter (USMC) was also the top military/veteran participant.

• Top Checkpoint: Dive Pros in Pensacola accepted more than 5,000 lionfish tails during the season.

“We are beyond thankful for the support of our staff, sponsors, and the community that played a part in this achievement,” said Marine Fisheries Management Director Jessica McCawley. “This year’s Challenge showcased the impact that recreational divers and commercial harvesters make to protect Florida’s marine ecosystems.”

The FWC Lionfish Challenge is an annual opportunity to reward divers for harvesting invasive lionfish. Participation is free and divers may compete from anywhere in Florida. Prizes are awarded throughout the event based on the number of lionfish removed.

To learn more about how you can participate against this invasive species, visit ReefRangers.MyFWC.com/

By BRIAN ENGLISH

Small business owners may find it challenging to find ways to provide additional benefits to their children who work for the company. One often overlooked choice is including a Roth individual retirement account (IRA) as part of their compensation, a strategy that offers the potential to benefit both the children and the business.

Small businesses play a significant role in labor markets. They employ 62.3 million Americans, 45.9 percent of all private-sector employees. Over the period from 1995 to December 2024, small businesses have been responsible for generating 20.7 million net new jobs, which accounts for an impressive 61 percent of all jobs created since 1995.1

A Roth IRA is a tax-advantaged investment account that allows individuals to contribute after-tax income. Unlike in traditional IRAs, contributions to a Roth IRA are not tax deductible, as their advantage lies in the tax-free growth potential and tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

Roth IRA contributions are phased out for taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes (AGIs) above a certain amount. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

To contribute to a Roth IRA, the working family member must have earned income. This requirement creates a unique opportunity for small business owners to include their children as employees and compensate them accordingly. In this scenario, the fact that the child is likely in a very low tax bracket is an advantage, meaning that a smaller percentage is paid up front.

Not everyone knows that Roth IRA funds can be used for various purposes before the age of 59½, such as purchasing a first home, covering educational expenses, and even paying medical costs. Consistent contributions from a young age can accumulate into a substantial account. Imagine that a child starts working at 8 and continues until 16, and the small business contributes to a Roth IRA. Upon reaching adulthood, the child could have a sizable sum saved for milestones such as purchasing a house or funding a college education.

Although the initial contributions may seem small, the long-term benefits of including a Roth IRA in a child’s compensation package are significant. It not only establishes a solid financial foundation but also instills valuable lessons about saving, investing, and preparing for the future. By involving a financial professional, parents can ensure that their children receive guidance as they transition into adulthood.

Managing money for the next generation has gained considerable attention in recent years. As businesses and families prepare their financial legacies, strategies such as including a Roth IRA in compensation packages are becoming increasingly popular. By working with a financial professional, families can navigate the complexities of wealth management. If you own a small business, including a Roth IRA in your children’s compensation package could be a game-changer. With the potential for tax-free growth and a range of permitted uses, this strategy can provide numerous benefits and potentially greater financial success.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth. Osaic Wealth does not provide tax or legal advice.

By JARED MILLER

As the holidays approach, many of us look forward to gathering with family, shopping for loved ones, and enjoying the traditions that make this season special. As you prepare, I encourage you to take a few simple precautions to help protect your home, vehicle, and belongings.

A thief may need only an unlocked door, a visible shopping bag, or an unattended package to find an opportunity. Taking away those easy opportunities can help prevent a holiday celebration from becoming a frustrating and costly experience.

One method used by vehicle burglars is commonly called “car hopping.” Individuals move through a parking lot or neighborhood, pulling on vehicle door handles until they find an unlocked vehicle. Once inside, they search for anything they can quickly take.

Make locking your vehicle a habit, even when it is parked in your driveway. Remove purses, wallets, cash, electronics, keys, and documents containing personal information. Firearms should be removed and stored securely rather than left in an unattended vehicle.

While shopping, keep purchases out of sight and avoid leaving bags in your vehicle longer than necessary. Before heading inside for the evening, take a moment to check that every vehicle at your home is locked.

If your holiday plans take you out of town, think about what your home will look like while you are away. Arrange for a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member to check on your property, collect deliveries, and watch for anything unusual. Place a hold on your mail or have someone collect it so it does not accumulate.

Wait until you return to share vacation photos and travel details on social media. Posting exactly when you are leaving and how long you will be gone can reveal when your home will be unoccupied.

Check doors, windows, garages, sheds, and gates before departing. Light timers, motion-activated lighting, cameras, and alarm systems can provide additional layers of protection, but basic habits remain important.

Online shopping brings convenience, but packages left outside can also attract thieves. Use delivery notifications to track when packages arrive and arrange to bring them inside promptly.

If you will not be home, consider asking a trusted person to retrieve them, using an available pickup location, or providing delivery instructions for a less visible spot. A secure package box may also be an option. The goal is to limit how long deliveries sit unattended and visible from the street.

Keep valuable items and gifts out of view through windows, and close blinds or curtains when appropriate. After opening gifts, break down packaging and keep it out of sight until your scheduled trash or recycling collection. Boxes for televisions, computers, gaming systems, and other purchases can advertise what is now inside your home.

Remember to lock your home when you leave and before going to bed. Include side doors, garage entrances, and other access points in that routine.

One of Wakulla County’s strengths is the way our residents care for their neighbors. If you notice someone checking vehicle doors, entering property without permission, or taking packages, report it promptly. Do not put yourself at risk by confronting them. If you can safely provide a description, vehicle information, or direction of travel, those details can help responding deputies.

Even careful people can become victims of crime. Responsibility always rests with the person who chooses to steal.

If you discover a theft or burglary, or see suspicious activity, contact the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office at 850-745-7100. For emergencies or a crime in progress, call 911. Our personnel are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

On behalf of everyone at the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, I wish you and your family a safe, peaceful, and happy holiday season.

By GREG GAST

Bringing kindness into your daily routine can have a profound effect on your overall wellbeing. By reducing stress, boosting happiness, improving relationships, enhancing mental health, and promoting physical health.

Kindness is truly a powerful tool for a better life. A happier life begins with one kind act at a time.

There are many reasons acts of kindness are good for the giver and the receiver. Performing acts of kindness help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Participating in acts of kindness help Individuals with depression and anxiety to divert their attention from themselves and take their minds off their own symptoms.

Everyday simple acts of kindness can contribute to boosting your mood, reducing stress, and alleviating symptoms of depression or anxiety. In addition, what might seem like a small kind gesture could have a greater impact than you might think.

When we offer kindness to someone it increases positive emotions and life satisfaction. Simply seeing kindness can promote generosity, interpersonal connection, and inclusion.

Kindness is about putting other people’s interests first. It feels great to do something useful for someone. It makes you feel like your life is valuable. As the old proverb states, “It’s better to give than to receive.”

Kindness can be contagious. When a person receives kindness, they get an emotional boost and are more likely to help someone else.

Giving a compliment to a family member, friend, or colleague or just hearing that someone else behaved kindly can motivate us to do the same, Kindness can make others perceive us as more attractive, We are biologically wired to be drawn to people who are kind and compassionate.

Kindness in the workplace is a winning strategy for success. Kindness can result in a more positive work environment and better employee performance. Employees with kind bosses are more likely to stay at their company.

Kindness has health benefits – it not only feels good, it can boost the giver’s well-being too.

When a person thanks us or smiles back, our brains release oxytocin, the feel-good hormone, which can increase trust and reduce fear and anxiety.

Receiving and giving kindness boast plenty of benefits. It’s intuitive that receiving kindness enhances well-being; research suggests that when we offer kindness to others it increases positive emotions and life satisfaction. It increases feelings of happiness, calm, gratitude, decreases stress and increases generosity.

Gregory E. Gast, MS, LMHC is at 3295 Crawfordville Hwy. Suite 4 Crawfordville, Florida 32327 or call at (850) 271-8258.

By Samantha Kennedy

Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, plays a critical role in keeping the body functioning properly. Every day, the foods we eat are broken down into nutrients that provide energy, and glucose is the body’s primary fuel source. Blood glucose comes from the food we eat and is carried through the bloodstream to cells throughout the body, where it is used for energy.

The body carefully regulates blood sugar levels through the actions of two hormones produced by the pancreas: insulin and glucagon. When blood sugar rises after a meal, insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. As blood sugar levels begin to fall, glucagon signals the liver to release stored glucose to maintain a healthy balance. This process helps ensure that the body’s cells, especially those in the brain, have a steady supply of energy.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is important because glucose is the primary source of energy for every cell in the body. The brain, in particular, depends heavily on glucose. The brain uses a significant portion of the body’s glucose supply and relies on a constant source of this fuel for thinking, learning, and memory.

Problems occur when blood sugar levels become too high or too low. High blood sugar, known as hyperglycemia, can occur when the body does not make enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. As a result, glucose remains in the bloodstream rather than entering the cells where it is needed for energy. Over time, persistently elevated blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves, and vital organs.

Health experts warn that uncontrolled high blood sugar increases the risk of serious complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage. Prolonged high blood glucose may also lead to significant diabetes-related complications if it is not managed properly, such as blindness, poor circulation, and vascular dementia.

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can also be dangerous. Symptoms may include dizziness, confusion, weakness, sweating, and difficulty concentrating. Because the brain depends on glucose for energy, severely low blood sugar levels can interfere with normal brain function and, in extreme cases, cause seizures or loss of consciousness.

Fortunately, there are several ways to help keep blood sugar under control. Experts recommend eating balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and following medical advice regarding blood glucose monitoring and medications when needed. Understanding how food, activity, stress, and illness affect blood sugar can help individuals make informed decisions that support their health.

Blood sugar is the body’s main source of energy and is essential for the proper function of every organ, especially the brain. Keeping blood sugar within a healthy range helps maintain energy, supports overall wellness, and reduces the risk of serious long-term health complications. Through healthy lifestyle choices and regular monitoring when necessary, individuals can take important steps toward protecting their health for years to come.

For more information about this and other mental health topics, contact Samantha Kennedy at the UF/IFAS Wakulla County Extension office at 850-926-3931.

Thousands of people were on hand for Saturday’s annual Story Walk in the park, hosted by the Wakulla County Public Library. The county commission booth featured a Scooby-Doo theme. (Photo special)

By WILLIAM SNOWDEN
Editor

The Wakulla War Eagles finished off district play with a defensive battle against the Baker County Wildcats on Friday, winning 7-3, and going undefeated (3-0) in district play and 7-2 overall.
But Head Coach Derek Allen Jr. was unclear what the District Champion label meant besides assurance that his War Eagles will be in the playoffs.

The War Eagles are ranked No. 5 in their classification. But MaxPreps still has the district rival Godby Cougars ranked at No. 2, ahead of Wakulla, despite the War Eagles defeat of Godby 35-34 two weeks ago.
Depending on the outcome of this Friday night’s game between Pine Forest and Bay County and the ultimate rankings, Wakulla might be hosting Pine Forest or traveling there for the first round of the playoffs.
As for the Baker County Wildcats, it was a physical game with both defenses locked in.
The Wildcats took the opening kickoff and made their way downfield in a drive that culminated in a 42-yard field goal.
The War Eagles didn’t even cross midfield for a play in Wildcat territory until just before halftime.
In the second half, Wakulla took the kickoff and drove across midfield. They made it to the 6 with first and goal and Danny Godbolt took it in with some tush push from teammates.
The War Eagles initially lined up to go for 2, but Coach Allen changed his mind and brought in kicker Colby Carranza for the extra point.
The War Eagles held on to that 7-3 lead.
The biggest threat to that lead came in the 4th quarter as the Wildcats drove deep into Wakulla territory. At the 10, the Wildcat back stretched to reach the end zone for what seemed like an inevitable score, but War Eagle linebacker Rayshon St. Hilaire stripped the ball and it was recovered by Wakulla at the 1.
At the 6 minute mark of the quarter, Wakulla was facing a 4th and 3 at their own 9 and the Wildcats jumped offsides to give the War Eagles a first down. A few runs by Ryheem Moore and the War Eagles were at midfield with 4:22 left.
They made it as far as the Wildcat 24 with 1:46 left when the ball was knocked loose and the fumble recovered by Baker County.
But the Wildcats couldn’t move the ball – they turned the ball over on downs with 6 seconds left and the War Eagles went into victory formation to seal the win.
Overall Player of the Week was Rayshon St. Hilaire.
Offensive Player of the Week was Ryheem Moore.
Defensive Player of the Week was Demarkus Roberts.
Speacial Teams Player of the Week was punter Logan Smith.
The War Eagles had 300 yards on the ground, with 184 of those yards picked up by Ryheem Moore.

UP NEXT:
LEON LIONS

The Lions were undefeated until their loss to Mosley on Friday night.
“They’ve beaten a lot of the same teams as we’ve played,” said Coach Allen.
He added that teams learn more from losses than wins and that “They will be ready to play next week.”
As for the distraction of Homecoming, Allen said the team has to “block out all the noise and be ready to play a football game amidst all the chaos.”