District 2 Commissioner Bob Cole Jan. 20 made a last-minute addition to the county commission meeting agenda – the appointment of one of his campaign contributors to the zoning board. But Cole’s motion to appoint Navarre businessman James Dabney was rejected in a 3-2 vote.

Marilyn Hess, president of Holi Corp, successfully advocated county commissioners Jan. 22 for a six-month extension to start construction of a $30-million hotel on Navarre Beach.

You’ve downsized to an apartment, the kids are long gone, and you’re no longer eligible for some of the deductions and exemptions that had helped you lower your tax bill.

Kigali, the baby gorilla, is turning 3 and Gulf Breeze Zoo is hosting a celebration on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 1 p.m. Guests are invited to watch Kigali open presents, eat a special gorilla cake and play on Gorilla Island. Sign Kigali’s “gorilla-sized” birthday card and learn fun facts about the growing gorilla. 

Sounds of delight welcome Don Chester wherever he goes. And it usually has little to do with him.