Happy Father’s Day! Did you know that Father’s Day wasn’t declared a national holiday until 1972? It was first introduced to Congress in 1913 but failed to gain tractor or public favor for quite some time. Public opinion scoffed at the idea of celebrating fathers as they did mothers – there was a perceived softness to mothers that the culture of the time didn’t associate with the more stoic, reserved role of fatherhood. In fact, former President Woodrow Wilson once referred to Mother’s Day as a way to recognize “that tender, gentle army – the mothers of America.”
Father’s Day gained traction in part because of the advocacy of Grace Golden Clayton and Sonora Smart Dodd. The Great Depression and World War II pushed Father’s Day into the cultural consciousness and helped the day become commercially important. Additionally, the changing roles of fathers clinched the deal for Father’s Day; the modern role of a father is growing evermore removed from its historical roots. Now, the day is spent celebrating fathers and father figures who provide critical support during a child’s life. There is a growing field of study showing the direct and indirect effects of fathers on children’s well-being.
The Panhandle Watermelon Festival is coming to Chipley! Founded in 1969, the Festival focuses more on music than watermelon. The musical lineup draws out-of-towners from June 23-24th. This year, the lineup includes Easton Corbin, Collin Raye, Andy Griggs, Ty Gerndon, and Leah Pettis. 
June is National Homeownership Month! It celebrates the value that owning a home brings to families, communities, and neighborhoods across America. It helps spread the joys of being a homeowner and encourages others to achieve the same thing. Did you know that most Americans had no way of owning a home in the 1800s? Mortgages became common after the U.S. banking system came into being as a result of the 1860s National Bank Acts.
The lot has been vacant since Hurricane Michael in 2018. The McGuire parent company purchased the location last week; they estimate renovations will take around 12 months. A tentative opening goal for fall 2024 has been announced. 
The Marianna Police Department is stepping up on enforcement for the Memorial Day “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Happening now, the campaign will run until May 30, 2023. It’s an almost month-long endeavor designed to remind motorists to buckle up for safety. The “Click It or Ticket” campaign advocates for buckling-for-safety via 1) education and 2) law enforcement. 