If you've lived in the Florida Panhandle for any length of time, you've probably experienced it: stepping outside on an otherwise beautiful day only to be immediately surrounded by a cloud of tiny flying pests determined to crawl into your eyes, nose, ears, and mouth.

Gentry Edgar Taylor, a World War II Navy veteran, longtime community leader, and devoted family man, celebrated his 100th birthday on May 6, 2026, marking a century defined by military service, faith, leadership, and dedication to others.

State Senator Jay Trumbull and Representative Shane Abbott told Jackson County leaders Thursday that Northwest Florida is positioned to receive significant state support as lawmakers move closer to finalizing Florida’s budget.

The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners faced a packed chamber and overflowing crowd Tuesday night as residents from Jackson and surrounding counties voiced overwhelming opposition to the possibility of a large-scale AI data center being developed near Compass Lake and the Econfina watershed area.

Jackson County commissioners spent considerable time Tuesday discussing appointments to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC), eventually tabling the matter after disagreement over whether applicants who attended the meeting should receive preference for the four open seats.

For half a century, the Marianna City Farmers Market has been more than just a place to buy fresh vegetables. It has been a Saturday tradition, a gathering place for neighbors, and a lasting symbol of Jackson County’s agricultural roots.

Community members gathered in Marianna last week as part of the statewide “Walk in My Shoes” campaign, an initiative led by Lauren’s Kids to raise awareness about child sexual abuse prevention and support for survivors.

The Union Grove Rockers of the former Union Grove High School of Greenwood, now operating as Union Grove Alumni Association, Incorporated (UGAA), continues to find ways to give back to the community that helped shape them.

Jackson County Fire Rescue continues to gain statewide recognition, most recently earning a top distinction for pediatric emergency care while still riding the momentum of being named Florida’s Rural EMS Provider of the Year.

Students in Jackson County now have a new, more convenient way to earn their learner’s permit and driver’s license.

The 9th Annual Chipola Mental Health Symposium brought students, educators, and community partners together April 2 at the Chipola Cultural Center, continuing a growing tradition of mental health awareness in Jackson County.

The Jackson County Times staff  met with Marianna Recreation Director Jeff Faircloth last week for an update on the status of the work at Jenings Field.

Holmes County Commission Coordinator David Corbin expressed his appreciation to the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners for their immediate and generous assistance following the May 10, 2025, storm that struck Holmes County.

Senator Jay Trumbull and Representative Shane Abbott visited Marianna as part of their district tour, meeting with local leaders, educators, and students to outline Jackson County’s priorities for the coming year.