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The Jackson County Public Library is hosting its Seed Library Kickoff tomorrow! Head over to the library from 10:30am to 1:30pm to benefit from this season’s seeds. Adults with a current library card can get up to FOUR seed packs. The Library would like to thank the Master Gardener Program and the UF|IFAS Extension Office for their support. Learn more by visiting the event Facebook page.
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Did you know that Florida is a biodiversity hotspot?! The state ranks 7th for animal biodiversity with 4,368 known species. We rank 6th for vascular plant diversity, with 3,038 species. Florida also ranks among the top five states in endemic species; endemic species are animals or plants that are found only in our state. For instance, 269 species of animals can be found only in Florida.
In fact, Florida is part of the North American Coastal Plain – the low-lying land stretching from Texas to Florida to New England. In 2016, the North American Coastal Plain was named the 36th biodiversity hotspot in the world. Biodiversity expert Reed Noss said, “Florida, in term of endemic species, is the hottest spot within the Coastal Plain.” There are one-of-a-kind species such as turtles, frogs, freshwater fish, mice, birds, and many types of plants and invertebrates.
Why are biodiversity hotspots important? Well, there’s a lot to cover but the overall message is that biodiversity creates a healthier ecosystem for all life on Earth, including humans. To learn more, check out this article by the Rainforest Action Network.
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The Gulf Coast’s annual ren fair is back! Come out to the Santa Rosa Fairgrounds on March 2nd & 3rd to enjoy all things yo ho ho, ye olde, and ye haw! This year’s festival is open to those who enjoy renaissance fun like turkey legs and jousting, pirate antics such as excessive drinking and sword fights, AND cowboy culture with lassos and tales of the Wild West. This year also features a Roaring 20s stage that will showcase Irish step dancers, belly dancers, and a swing band. The Renaissance Fair and Pirate Festival encourages visitors of all ages and all costumes. Learn more HERE.
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We posted about the Caverns Cultural Celebration last December but the event was canceled due to extreme weather. Luckily, you can still enjoy the event! It has been rescheduled for March 2nd. Come out to learn about blacksmithing, woodworking, beekeeping, flintknapping, candlemaking, and more. There will also be food and interesting vendors selling their rural crafts and other homesteading goods. The Caverns Cultural Celebration will take place at the Florida Caverns State Park.
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There are two annual Scottish Highland Game events happening in the Florida Panhandle.
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Are you planning to list your home this spring? March 21 isn’t that far away! For homeowners getting ready to sell, now is the time to start prepping. Check out the quick tips below:
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Happy Valentine’s Day! Try one of these jokes to get your Valentine laughing today!
What’s Cupid’s favorite band? Kiss!
What did one watermelon say to the other on Valentine’s Day? “You’re one in a melon!”
How did the telephone propose to his girlfriend? He gave her a ring!
What Valentine’s message can you find in a honeycomb? “Bee mine.”
Why are artichokes so beloved? They’re known for their hearts.
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There’s a new listing in Marianna! 2815 Wynn Street is a brand new construction built in 2024. Centrally located to all of Marianna’s amenities, the home has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a garage. The final construct will also have privacy fencing. There’s a lot to love about this house: beautiful stonework out front, a step-in tiled shower in the Master bath, wood laminate, and gorgeous oak trees around your home (to name a few).
Click here to visit the listing or contact Debbie at (850) 209-8039 to schedule a showing.
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Lake City’s fourth annual Strawberry Festival takes place February 24-25th at the renowned Suwannee County Fairgrounds. The fest features just-picked strawberries in shortcakes, shakes, and more. The two-day event is family-friendly; there will be entertainment and activities for all ages. The fun never ends with live music, axe throwing, Frisbee dog shows, Monster Truck rides, kids’ games, pie contests, arts and crafts vendors, and so much more. Learn more by visiting the Festival website.
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It’s the month of love and falling for a house is one of those ‘once in a lifetime’ loves that homeowners’ are searching for. Yet, buying the first house you look at is kind of like marrying the first person you ever go on a date with – not necessarily a good idea. Most professionals in the housing market agree that potential homebuyers view at least three houses, no matter how much you liked the first one you saw. What should you look for when it comes to searching for your dream home?