Features

Keystone Elementary student places in Founders Week Art Contest

BY DAN HILDEBRAN [email protected] Second-grader Layla Church from Keystone Heights Elementary was one of seven students recognized during the December 11 Clay County school board meeting for her artwork during the district’s Founders’ Week Art Contest. Church’s winning entry featured the U.S. Capitol building in Washington. The annual art competition asked students to explore historic…

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Dan Hildebran December 16, 2025
Bradford County

First Presbyterian celebrates legacy of worship, service and faithfulness

Honoring 141 years of faith and community BY GINGER SUMNER First Presbyterian Church On Dec. 14, First Presbyterian Church of Starke will gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone — 141 years of worship, fellowship and service. More than simply marking the passage of time, the celebration will honor the faithfulness of God and the enduring…

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Mark J. Crawford December 9, 2025
Bradford County

Bradford students earn digital certifications

Nearly 70 Bradford High School students earned certifications in two technology areas this fall: computer device configuration and management, and visual design using Adobe Photoshop. The school, in a news release, said these classes, part of Bradford High’s career and technical education programs, have enabled students to earn highly recognized industry certifications that showcase both…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025
Features

Lake Butler Hospital earns 5-star rating

BY DAN HILDEBRAN [email protected] Lake Butler Hospital has earned a 5-star quality rating from the National Rural Rating System. The designation is the highest possible score under the performance metric.  The hospital had maintained a four-star rating for about eight months before reaching the top tier, according to Cynthia Coulter, chief clinical services officer. “It’s…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025
Bradford County

Bradford’s future nursing school noted in statewide magazine

BY DAN HILDEBRAN [email protected]  Florida Trend magazine noted Santa Fe College’s future Starke nursing school in the periodical’s December issue. The statewide publication highlighted the workforce development efforts of 21 of Florida’s 28 state colleges. “In early 2026, the College will cut the ribbon on a nurse training facility in Bradford County, in partnership with…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025

Audubon awarded for conservation project

BY CELINA ROHMAN President, Santa Fe Audubon Society Each year, Audubon Florida celebrates its 44 Chapters for their efforts to connect people to nature while protecting birds and the places they need. These awards remind us that conservation is not just about the birds; it’s about people coming together to make a difference, one project,…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025
Features

Lake Region Kiwanis donates $5,000 for band uniforms

BY JENN SAMSEL [email protected]  Lake Region Kiwanis donated an additional $5,000 during the Keystone Heights High School Marching Band Concert on Friday, December 5th, to help fund new uniforms for the band. This year, Kiwanis dedicated its fundraising efforts to support the KHHS marching band in acquiring new uniforms, which are urgently needed. The total…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025
Features

KHHS career fair helps teens network toward their futures

BY JENN SAMSEL [email protected]  Keystone Heights High School hosted its 7th Annual Career and College Fair, helping students prepare for college and pursue careers after graduation. This year’s event, occurring on Wednesday, December 3, featured approximately 40 different businesses, colleges, and military branches. Students in grades 9 through 12 had the opportunity to speak with…

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Dan Hildebran December 9, 2025