The CRA (Cottondale) Angels refused to let the sweltering summer heat dampen their determination Friday, battling until the final out before falling just short in a 5-4 heartbreaker to Franklin County in the opening round of the Dixie Youth Angels State Tournament.

The Sneads AAA All-Stars proved throughout the Dixie Youth AAA State Tournament in Frostproof that determination can carry a team a long way. After an early setback forced them into the loser's bracket, the District Champions refused to quit, winning back-to-back elimination games before reaching the state championship contest. Although their remarkable run ended with an 11-6 loss to AP AAA All-Stars, Sneads left Frostproof with a runner-up finish and the respect of everyone who watched them compete. Playing more games than any team in the tournament, the young squad displayed grit, resilience and plenty of promise for the future.

There is something about the Fourth of July that reaches across generations. Long before the first fireworks illuminate the night sky or the aroma of barbecue fills the air, Americans pause to remember the remarkable story of a young nation that dared to pursue liberty.

Hurricane Michael has long been described as the gift that keeps on giving. When the devastating storm tore through Northwest Florida in October 2018, it left a trail of destruction that forever changed the landscape of Jackson County. Nearly eight years later, the county continues to rebuild one project at a time. Last week, the Town of Malone celebrated another milestone in that recovery as firefighters, local officials and residents gathered to officially open the community's brand-new volunteer fire station.

Playing in the state tournament in Wewahitchka, the Belles battled through three games unbeaten to claim the state championship, earning a coveted berth in the Dixie Softball World Series. The elite group, many of whom have spent years playing together while collecting district, state and even World Series championships throughout their careers, will now represent Florida when the World Series begins July 24 in Odessa, with West Pasco serving as host.

Few places in Jackson County are as recognizable or as treasured as Merritt's Mill Pond. From its crystal-clear waters and world-renowned cave diving to boating, fishing and family recreation, the spring-fed waterway has become one of the county's most cherished natural resources.

For many families in Marianna, Optimist Park is more than a place to play ball. It's where childhood friendships are formed, life lessons are learned, and generations of athletes grow up together on the same fields.

At the June 16 meeting of the Jackson County School Board, members discussed an increase in the district's Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) extended-day fee, raising the rate from $15 to $20 per day.