Laura Young

A large swath of the Big Bend has received only 1.53 inches of rain since Sept. 1, an amount that is 8.24 inches below normal. The most recent data released through the U.S. Drought Monitor indicated that as of Nov. 13 most of Jefferson County registers at intensity level D3 (Extreme Drought). This is the second highest level on their scale, which includes None, D0 (Abnormally Dry), D1 (Moderate Drought), D2 (Severe Drought), D3 (Extreme Drought) and D4 (Exceptional Drought).

Jason Q. Brookins, who grew up in Monticello, is directing a musical play he wrote that features selected songs from The Blasting Company's album, “A History of Public Relations Dilemmae.” Tickets for the show, which has its final weekend at the Monticello Opera House (MOH) Nov. 21, 22 and 23, are available at www.monticellooperahouse.org, by calling 850-997-4242 or at the door.

A large swath of the Big Bend has received only a minimal amount of rain since Sept. 1, more than 8 inches below normal. As of Nov. 20, data released through the U.S. Drought Monitor indicated a range of drought conditions across Jefferson County. In the upper third of the county, roughly from I-10 north, there is Exceptional Drought (level D4), the highest rating. The middle third of the county is experiencing intensity level D3 (Extreme Drought), the second highest level on the scale; and the lower tip of the the county has a rating of D3 (Severe Drought). Other ratings on the scare are D1 (Moderate Drought), D0 (Abnormally Dry) and None.

Monticello's own Santa, Jack Stevens, will be making a special appearance this holiday season during the Jungle Jingle event at the North Florida Wildlife Center, a nonprofit sanctuary for vulnerable animals.

Jefferson County Fire Rescue Chief Derrick Burrus says that rains predicted for this week will likely not be sufficient to lift the ban currently in place on outdoor burning.

Statewide exchange moves forward with renewed focus on rural access, expanded connectivity, and participant continuity

The organizers of Flea Across Florida are encouraging residents and businesses along U.S. Hwy. 90 between Pensacola and Maclenny to “clean out your sheds, garages and closets” and prepare to be a vendor during the mega garage sale. For those planning to make a stop-and-shop road trip out of the event, it's time to make plans for two days of adventurous “treasure” hunting.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is a water-soluble vitamin you must obtain from food or supplements. This essential nutrient has been linked with several health benefits, including improved mood and less morning sickness.

The brave crew is toughing it out and staying cheerful despite being tossed around. The engine is off and we are true sailing-main and jib. In the first 12 hours we saw two pods of Orca and four humpback whales, two of which were 20 yards off the starboard beam!

One night at Pete's Kitchen reminds us why it remains Denver's soul.