To reflect on the news of the day, Jacksonville Today seeks to include a diverse set of perspectives. These opinion columnists are independent contractors who are paid for their contributions and are not involved in news decisions.

News
FPL could ‘claw back’ pay for wrongdoing by CEO
Florida Power & Light Co. tried to reassure analysts about the departure of CEO Eric Silagy, who has been surrounded…

News
World of Nations returns in February
The annual international festival in Jacksonville showcases food, music, artwork and clothing from a range of countries.…

News
Activists rally for oversight of Jacksonville police
About 50 people rallied outside the Duval County Courthouse to protest the police beating of Tyre Nichols in Memphis.…

News
Another fire station under construction on Jacksonville’s Northside
City leaders broke ground Monday on the next new fire station in Jacksonville — Station 64 at Harts Road and…

News
Demolition due for Morocco Shrine Center
The site of Morocco Shrine Center in Jacksonville will be redeveloped into a hotel, student housing, multifamily housing, commercial and…

News
Black firefighters lose suit over Jacksonville’s shaving rules
Jacksonville firefighters challenged rules requiring them to be cleanshaven even if they had a condition called pseudofolliculitis barbae, or PFB.…

News
First Baptist responds to concerns about LGBTQ stance
The church is requiring its members to sign a statement agreeing that marriage is between a man and a woman.…

News
New MOSH exhibit lets you explore a new planet
Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History opens its newest exhibit: Planet Pioneers.…

News
Duval Schools tells teachers to ‘cover or store’ books
In a video obtained by WJCT News, the district’s chief academic officer tells teachers to pull books from classrooms until…

News
First Baptist sets forum to discuss sexuality statement
First Baptist Church of Jacksonville says its members must sign a “Statement on Biblical Sexuality” by March or leave the…

News
City Council approves $7.5 million for 1st and Main in Springfield
1st and Main, an estimated $53.6 million project from Corner Lot in Jacksonville, combines multifamily and commercial space.…

News
Developer has big plans for Northeast Florida
BTI Partners has already acquired 4,600 acres in Clay and St. Johns counties, but the company sees even more potential…

News
Pilot program will test composting in Riverside and Avondale
Sunshine Organics and Compost will train about 15 Jacksonville restaurants on how to separate food for composting.…

News
River City Brewing land might be developed after all
Jacksonville has canceled a deal with the Related Group to build apartments, but the developer could come back with a…

News
Jacksonville’s drought could continue through February
Lack of rain has left Jacksonville and much of Northeast Florida in a moderate drought.…

News
State law would combat antisemitic acts like Jacksonville’s
Proposed legislation in Florida would define certain acts as hate crimes and increase criminal penalties.…

News
Closed San Marco Theatre put up for lease
Colliers is marketing the building where the San Marco Theatre closed after almost 85 years.…

News
JEA board approves $106.6 million solar deal
JEA will have access to 150 megawatts of solar power produced by Florida Power & Light Co.…

News
Apartment deal canceled for River City Brewing site
Jacksonville has terminated a development agreement with the Related Group to build RD River City Brewery Apartments on the Southbank.…

News
Projected messages outlawed. But could new law be challenged?
The law — conceived as a way to attack antisemitic displays — could face issues if challenged in court, attorneys…

News
Suspect arrested in dad’s fatal ambush in Jax Beach
Henry Tenon, 61, did not act alone,in the slaying of Jared Bridegan, authorities said. The investigation is continuing.…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Jan. 27-29
Piano performance, a solo art show and a bike tour of Downtown are this week’s Art Picks.…

News
Lawmakers consider oversight of municipal utilities like JEA
Florida’s Public Service Commission has no authority over municipal utilities. Lawmakers are discussing whether to change that.…

News
Land deal saves Little Tiger Island for conservation
Nearly a square mile of marsh and uplands facing Fernandina Beach’s historic waterfront is being preserved.…

News
Dawgs fans: You can now get a Florida license plate
The University of Georgia has met Florida’s presale requirement for a speciality license plate. The plate will go into production…

News
Student injured in two-story fall at St. Johns County high school
A student fell from a second-story walkway at Pedro Menendez High School. It’s unclear why the person fell.…

News
Electricity bills are on the way up, but not as much this time
A JEA rate increase this spring might be offset by a lower fuel cost — meaning bills shouldn’t rise as…

Features
Out East Jacksonville takes big step toward national historic designation
The Eastside Historic District is one step closer to joining the National Register of Historic Places following a decision from…

News
Anejo Cocina Mexicana fills last space at East San Marco
The East San Marco shopping center on Hendricks Avenue is now fully leased.…

News
Jacksonville airport will add parking as terminal expands
Jacksonville International Airport plans to add a third parking garage and renovate its security checkpoint.…

News
TaxSlayer extends Gator Bowl sponsorship through 2027
TaxSlayer is the longest-running title sponsor of the Gator Bowl, the nation’s sixth-oldest bowl game.…

ADAPT
Community meetings are next step for Jax chief resilience officer
“We’re going to be really guided by the data. But also, it’s so important for that data to be grounded…

News
DeSantis comes to Jacksonville with plan for teacher pay raises
Gov. Ron DeSantis is proposing sweeping education changes including a Teachers Bill of Rights, limits on unions and partisan school…

News
Strings Sports Brewery plans second location in Jax Beach
Strings, a popular craft brewery in Springfield, will expand into the former Terry’s Country Store on Penman Road in Jacksonville…

News
How many people are homeless on the First Coast? We’ll soon know.
Volunteers will scatter across Duval, Clay and Nassau counties Wednesday to complete the Point-in-Time Count of people living unsheltered on…

News
It’s time to request vote-by-mail ballots for March election
New Florida laws require voters to file for a mail ballot each election cycle — even if they’ve gotten one…

News
UNF spends $3.5 million on diversity and inclusion
The University of North Florida — like other universities — had to report its diversity expenses as the state fights…

News
Jacobs Jewelers: The end of a landmark in Downtown Jacksonville
Roy and Delorise Thomas bought Florida’s oldest jewelry store in 1986. Now they’re retiring.…

News
Big changes coming to Jacksonville’s concert venues
Renovations are planned at the Florida Theatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall that will force each to close for several…

News
68 jobs affected as St. Vincent’s Riverside ends maternity care
Ascension filed a notice with the state saying employees will be let go starting March 19 when the hospital discontinues…

Features
Enrolling your child in Duval County Public Schools | JAX TODAY GUIDE
If you’re looking to enroll a first-time student in Duval Schools for this coming fall, here’s what you need to…

Features
Republican donor Kent Stermon had JSO access for nearly a decade as part of ‘the sheriff’s circle’
Kent Stermon, the donor who was under investigation when he died, was issued 5 separate badges giving him JSO access,…

News
USS Orleck could move to new home by March 31
The Jacksonville Downtown Investment Authority board this week advanced a 10-year licensing agreement for the floating naval museum.…

News
Jacksonville’s airport among Florida’s worst for seized guns
Jacksonville’s airport had the state’s highest rate of confiscated guns last year, during a record year for weapon seizures nationwide,…

News
Dueling bills seek to prohibit hate speech in Jacksonville
Two Jacksonville City Council members have filed identical bills that seek to prohibit the projection of messages onto buildings.…

News
St. Johns County teachers take hard line on pay
Teachers plan to protest their pay by working only 7.5 hours a day, the amount of time they’re paid for.…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Jan. 20-22
Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday and…

State News
Florida Ed Board OKs school book rules, rejects trans student protections and applauds ‘anti-woke’ state colleges
The State Board of Education signed off on measures in alignment with the priorities of Governor Ron DeSantis.…

News
Jacksonville may outlaw hate speech displays
A proposed law would ban anyone from projecting images onto someone else’s building — a response to several antisemitic displays…

News
Maternity services ending at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside
With the community’s health care needs changing, Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside will discontinue maternity care March 19.…

News
Intermodal project derailed in St. Johns County
Neighbors complained the proposed Col. Hinman Intermodal Exchange Facility would create dangerous truck traffic, noise and environmental issues.…

News
Neptune Beach city manager fired
City Manager Stefen Wynn was accused of “flagrant neglect of duty” and “willful misconduct.”…

Features
Downtown board’s deferral of planned LaVilla gas station hailed as community victory
A Jan. 12 deferral means the Downtown Improvement Authority will bring the DDRB’s concerns to Jacksonville-based First Coast Energy before…

News
Here’s how Trevor Lawrence wound up at Waffle House
The Jaguars quarterback celebrated his playoff victory with a cheesesteak, hash browns and a pecan waffle.…

News
Baker jail employee charged after relationship with inmate
Evelyn Rhodes is accused of providing contraband to the inmate and disclosing confidential criminal justice information.…

News
Human trafficking hides close to home
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office rescued 10 human trafficking victims in 2022. Authorities spoke Tuesday during National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.…

News
Rents are inching downward in Jacksonville
The Jacksonville metro area was one of 14 nationwide where the price for a new lease declined in the past…

News
Here’s what’s going up at former Southgate Plaza
The Jack on Beach will be a 295-unit apartment community featuring resort-style amenities.…

News
Jax Beach seafood restaurant to reopen after nearly 12 years
Crabcake Factory Seafood Grille & Bar will return to its longtime location — 1396 Beach Blvd. at Penman Road in…

Photo Essays
PHOTO ESSAY | Jacksonville’s 42nd Annual MLK Holiday Grand Parade
Hundreds marched in the 42nd annual MLK Holiday Grand Parade on Monday morning in Jacksonville.…

News
Frigid temperatures will grip North Florida this weekend
Lows Sunday morning will more than likely be colder than Saturday morning. Temperatures could range from the mid and upper…

News
Jacksonville mayoral candidates locked in for wide open race
The candidates to replace Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry include four Republicans, two Democrats and an independent.…

News
Sheriff T.K. Waters goes unopposed in election
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters retained his job unchallenged as the qualifying deadline for Duval County’s spring elections passed Friday.…

News
JTA expands Gameday Xpress for Saturday’s Jaguars game
JTA expects record crowds for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ AFC wild-card round matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.…

News
St. Johns River Ferry delays shutdown
The ferry will be out of service from Jan. 25 to May 2 for maintenance required by the U.S. Coast…

News
Jacksonville officials, local civil rights leaders continue to celebrate MLK. Separately.
Friday will mark the fifth straight year Jacksonville will have separate breakfasts honoring Martin Luther King.…

News
More affordable housing for seniors in Downtown Jacksonville
Ashley Square, a 120-unit affordable senior apartment complex, opened at East Ashley and Newnan streets.…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Jan. 13-15
Two chances to appreciate jazz and a bit of Disney magic are on tap this weekend in Jacksonville.…

News
Jacksonville University expands accelerated nursing program
JU has added Mayo Clinic to its clinical partners in the accelerated bachelor’s degree program. Mayo joins Baptist Health and…

News
The National Anthem will rock again at Jaguars game
Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi will perform the National Anthem for Saturday’s playoff game against the Chargers.…

News
Sugar Factory again pushes back opening date
Sugar Factory now plans to open Feb. 15 in The Markets at Town Center.…

News
Legal costs are climbing in Jacksonville redistricting fight
The city of Jacksonville has potentially paid over $150,000 in fees to outside law firms and consultants in its redistricting…

News
1928 Cuban Bistro opens in Jacksonville Beach
1928 Cuban Bistro has opened its fourth location in Jacksonville Beach. Another is planned on Amelia Island.…

News
Clay County bans panhandling; what about Jacksonville?
County commissioners prohibited panhandling on public roads, casting it as a safety concern in order to sidestep First Amendment concerns.…

News
Lakesha Burton decides against second run for sheriff
Burton, a 24-year veteran of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, says she faced a difficult campaign after finishing second in November.…

News
Jacksonville approves financing to raise power lines at port
JAXPORT says that raising power lines will allow larger ships into the newly deepened St. Johns River harbor.…

News
City Council signs off on revised deal for Four Seasons project
Shad Khan’s development company, Iguana Investments Florida LLC, plans a Four Seasons hotel and office building on Jacksonville’s riverfront.…

News
21-foot orca washes ashore in Palm Coast
Orcas are more common in cold water areas, but they also have been seen in tropical waters such as Florida…

News
Nine Jacksonville City Council members turn down pay raises
All of the council members who refused raises for themselves will be on the March ballot.…

Features
5 issues that Jax-area lawmakers might tackle this Florida legislative session
The Florida Legislature has a Northeast Florida House speaker for the first time in two decades. Here are 5 issues…

News
Cold front headed our way with risk of severe storms
Another cold front is expected to arrive to the Sunshine State on Thursday. A cold air mass should engulf most…

News
St. Augustine searches for flooding solutions
City officials have approved a three-year study agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to find solutions to coastal…

News
Bedroom counties build as Jacksonville jobs grow
Clay, Nassau and St. Johns counties have thousands of new residents who are commuting to Jacksonville for work.…

News
Nonprofit comes to Jax to help people get out of jail
The Bail Project, a national nonprofit, wants to prove that the current bail system is unjust and unnecessary.…

News
Stranded manatee freed from the mud off Metro Park
Jacksonville Fire and Rescue crews helped free a manatee stuck in the low tide as fans flocked to the Jaguars…

News
That Bar at the Arena plans rooftop deck
The 113-year-old building next to VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena could get covered seating and a rooftop deck.…

News
Suspect arrested in drive-by shooting that killed 13-year-old boy
Prince Holland died as a result of gun violence between street gangs in Jacksonville, the sheriff said.…

News
Community activist Ben Frazier to speak out at City Council again
Activist Ben Frazier will return to the place where he was arrested a month ago to continue his demand for…

News
The artistry of Ukraine: Lviv Philharmonic Orchestra comes to Jax
Ukraine’s Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at the 22nd season of Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival on Jan. 17.…

News
Duval high school cancels play over sexual content
Douglas Anderson School of the Arts pulled the plug on the production of “Indecent.”…

News
Court rejects Jacksonville’s appeal in redistricting case
A federal appeals panel upheld an order requiring the city to use City Council districts drawn by plaintiffs in a…

News
Veteran Jacksonville cop charged with falsifying arrest report
A Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office patrolman was arrested for official misconduct after an arrest report was falsified, the sheriff said.…

News
Finally: Shade may be coming to TIAA Bank Field
The Jacksonville Jaguars have picked HOK Architects to redesign TIAA Bank Field, including the addition of shade for fans.…

News
Annual March for Life planned Jan. 14 in St. Augustine
Anti-abortion marchers will hit St. Augustine streets in mid-January to celebrate the overturning of Roe v. Wade.…

News
Duval surpasses 1 million population. Why does it matter?
With more than 1 million people, Duval County can attract more retailers and businesses, but the milestone raises challenges for…

News
After 30 years, Karpeles Manuscript Museum to close in Jacksonville
The museum is one of more than a dozen around the country to display founder David Karpeles’ collection of rare…

News
Two-story Daily’s would include bar and restaurant
The rooftop bar/restaurant at Daily’s in LaVilla would include outdoor covered seating and a game area, plans show.…

News
Bank settles lawsuit against founders of Celebration Church
Stovall and Kerri Weems, founders of Celebration Church, settled a lawsuit that argued the couple owed more than $700,000 on…

News
Jacksonville’s riverfront is starting to take shape
Agency Landscape + Planning has been selected to design Shipyards West Park, part of a ribbon of development between Downtown…

News
Schoolkids get a lift with free Jacksonville bus rides
Hundreds of Jacksonville students have been riding JTA buses to school since the free service began a year ago.…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Jan. 6-8
Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend.…

News
Court alters residency requirement for City Council election
U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard waived a requirement that candidates in some districts live there for six months.…

News
15 busted in Jacksonville drug sting
A 4-month-long Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office investigation seized $2 million worth of illegal fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine, the sheriff said.…

News
Jacksonville ‘theater kid’ returns home with ‘Aladdin’
Joshua Kenneth Allen Johnson attended Jacksonville’s Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. In “Aladdin,” He’ll appear on the same stage where…

News
Whale dies after beaching at Hanna Park
A whale washed up Wednesday morning on the beach at Hanna Park in Jacksonville. It was alive when the FWC…

News
Lakesha Burton files to run again for Jacksonville sheriff
The retired assistant chief who was runner-up in the Nov. 8 runoff for Jacksonville sheriff has filed to run again.…

News
The Hub Brooklyn is ready for construction
The Hub Brooklyn is ready to rise. The city issued three permits Tuesday for Danis Construction LLC to build three…

News
Mayor Curry’s ‘resign-to-run’ idea looks doomed
It looks like Jacksonville City Council members don’t want to give up their positions when seeking another public office. Mayor…

News
The outlook for residential real estate in 2023
In the world of Northeast Florida residential real estate, 2022 began with houses staying on the market for days rather…

News
Homeless survey likely to find more seniors and children
Changing Homelessness, the lead homeless prevention agency for Clay, Duval and Nassau counties, is seeking volunteers for an annual federally…

News
St. Johns County rated best for children
St. Johns County does a better job of protecting children’s health and education than any other county in Florida, according…

News
Office Depot closing at Crossroads Square; Kids Empire moving in
Office Depot is closing its store in the Crossroads Square shopping center in Southwest Jacksonville, and it appears that an…

News
Court backs St. Johns schools in transgender bathroom fight
After a five-year legal battle, a sharply divided federal appeals court has upheld a St. Johns County School Board policy…

News
Gas prices at $4 a gallon? It’s expected again across Florida in 2023
As average gasoline prices have moved back above $3 a gallon in Florida, a tech company that monitors the fuel…

News
CSX contributes $100,000 to fight anti-semitism
Jacksonville-based CSX has announced a $100,000 donation to the Together Strong Community Fund to fight anti-Semitism in Northeast Florida. The…

News
St. Johns County may seek easements to rebuild dunes
St. Johns County officials are ready to discuss possible projects to rebuild sand dunes eroded by recent tropical storms. But…

News
Green Cove Springs police headquarters to be named in honor of late chief
The headquarters of the Green Cove Springs Police Department will be dedicated Thursday in honor of the late Chief Derek…

News
Jacksonville asks court to waive residency requirement for City Council candidates
The city of Jacksonville has asked a federal court on Wednesday to waive a requirement that City Council candidates live in…

Photo Essays
PHOTO ESSAY | Jax Today’s 11 favorite images from 2022
Jacksonville Today’s Will Brown shares his favorite images he’s captured over the past year.…

News
Gator Bowl mania returns with packed house
When the 78th TaxSlayer Gator Bowl kicks off Friday, it will feature a big crowd and marquee matchup as it…

News
2,000-home community planned in St. Johns County
BTI Partners plans to build more than 2,000 single-family homes after acquiring 1,300 acres in northwest St. Johns County for…

News
Jacksonville ranks No. 2 among best Florida places to live
Forbes says Jacksonville is the second-best place to live in Florida, beating out Miami, Orlando, Tallahassee and others. The Forbes…

News
Jacksonville files appeal in redistricting fight
The long and winding road to a new map for a handful of Jacksonville City Council districts could go right…

News
Southern Roots Filling Station is closing
The Southern Roots Filling Station will say farewell on Saturday after eight years at its storefront at 1275 King St.…

News
Fire-ravaged Grumpy’s Restaurant to reopen Monday
The fire started in the kitchen just hours after the popular Middleburg restaurant had closed that Jan. 19. Clay County…

News
St. Johns River Ferry halts service for maintenance
The Jean Ribault faces mandatory maintenance, and it will make the trip across the St. Johns River more difficult. The…

News
Jaguars announce ticket sales for potential playoff game
Jaguars pre-sale tickets for a potential playoff contest at TIAA Bank Field will go live at 10 a.m. Thursday for…

News
HCA Florida opens emergency room in Middleburg
Middleburg residents have a new option for emergency medical care as HCA Florida opens its new ER at 2560 Blanding…

News
Mayo Clinic prepares for Jacksonville expansion
Mayo Clinic has applied for a permit to build the $106.6 million core and shell of its five-story patient tower…

News
New Year’s Eve fireworks: What’s on tap in Jacksonville
Jacksonville sure does love its fireworks displays. You can find the skies over Downtown exploding in colorful sparks on the…

News
San Marco Theatre will close after 84 years
The San Marco Theatre will close its doors permanently Jan. 1. In a Facebook post Wednesday, the theater attributed the…

News
City Council president vows action on Confederate monuments
Jacksonville City Council President Terrance Freeman said that when the calendar flips into 2023, he intends to bring the long-running…

News
Haleigh Cummings’ father jailed on multiple charges
Just two months after his release from 12 years in state prison on multiple drug convictions, the father of a…

News
Flight cancellations persist at Jacksonville International Airport
Southwest Airlines canceled all 18 of its flights out of Jacksonville International Airport on Tuesday. One Delta flight also was…

News
JEA eyes solar farms and new natural gas plant in coming years
As utilities roll out plans for how they will cut back on greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change,…

News
Two more right whale calves discovered
The population of endangered North Atlantic right whales has grown by at least two. Wildlife researchers report seeing a 36-year…

News
Ex-JSO dispatcher gets 60 years for child sex abuse recordings
A former emergency dispatcher for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has been sentenced to 60 years in prison after pleading guilty…

News
Freeze alerts expand ahead of bitterly cold holiday weekend
Cold weather alerts are in place across much of Florida ahead of the arrival of plunging temperatures in time for…

News
Jacksonville will appeal judge’s rejection of election maps
The Jacksonville City Council will appeal a judge’s order requiring the city to implement an election map drawn by civil…

Features
Duval Schools to keep 73 ‘diverse, inclusive’ books out of classrooms
Dozens of books the Duval County school district ordered in the summer of 2021 will never hit classroom shelves. That’s…

State News
DeSantis seeks grand jury probe into COVID-19 shots
Saying that COVID-19 vaccines have been “pushed on Americans,” Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday asked the state Supreme Court to…

State News
Senate approves insurance overhaul. Will it help?
The Florida Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly passed a bill aimed at shoring up the troubled property insurance system by curbing…

State News
Florida’s insurance commissioner steps down a day after an industry overhaul was approved
After lawmakers this week passed an overhaul of the state’s property-insurance system, Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier on Thursday submitted…

State News
Ten big issues addressed during Florida’s insurance overhaul
Florida lawmakers this week held a special session and passed a 105-page bill aimed at stabilizing the state’s troubled property-insurance…

State News
DeSantis signs bill to stabilize insurance industry
Anticipating the need for more legislation about the state’s troubled property insurance system, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed bills…

State News
A report documents challenges to establishing more affordable housing in Florida
Rents and home prices rose dramatically in Florida over the past few years. In an annual trends report published earlier…

State News
Gov. DeSantis takes aim at the union dues of Florida teachers
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signaled that he will make a priority of passing a long-debated proposal that would prevent teachers…

State News
On Florida’s Gulf Coast, developers eye properties ravaged by Hurricane Ian
FORT MYERS, Fla. — Hurricane Ian destroyed more than 5,000 homes in Lee County, Fla., and damaged nearly 30,000 more…

State News
As anxiety and depression increase, more Floridians turn to medical marijuana
Imagine you are walking home from the last day of school before spring break. You plop on your bed, kick…

News
Pack your patience: Travel from Jax could be a challenge this holiday
The rush to head over the river and through the clouds to grandmother’s house is in full swing with Hanukkah,…

News
Supreme Court to consider teen’s ATV death in Clay County
The Florida Supreme Court has scheduled arguments Feb. 9 in the conviction of a Clay County man whose son was…

News
Blast of cold air will plunge some temps into the teens
A widespread hard freeze is likely in portions of the Panhandle and North Florida on Friday night as an Arctic…

News
Bear shot and killed after attacking Jacksonville zookeeper
A zookeeper at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens was injured Wednesday night when a bear attacked her after escaping his…

News
MOSH releases new views of its planned Northbank museum
A sneak peek of what’s planned inside the second generation of Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History has been released…

News
Designer furnishings store headed to Town Center area
Modani Furniture will open in the first quarter of 2023 in Ashco Inc.’s Town Center Outparcel building, the landlord announced.…

News
State Rep. Angie Nixon considers run for City Council
A recently elected local state representative is now thinking about stepping down from that post to run for a seat…

News
The fun continues: Adventure Landing will remain open in 2023
A Jacksonville Beach amusement park plans to remain open for at least nine more months before closing permanently to make…

News
Experts stress cold weather safety ahead of frigid holiday weekend
With a cold front expected to hit the East Coast this weekend, experts are reminding people of cold weather safety…

News
4,000-home community planned in Clay County
Fort Lauderdale-based BTI Partners announced has bought the 3,300-acre Governors Park property in Clay County and intends to develop 4,000…

News
Families of Slain Children provides toys, food, comfort for Durkeeville residents ahead of holidays
Beverly McClain’s idea of being a good neighbor is loving people where they are. Her official title is CEO of…

News
Jacksonville’s new sheriff promises more openness
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters announced major updates Tuesday to the way his department passes on information to the public. The…

News
Fees returning to Jacksonville Beach Pier
The Jacksonville Beach Pier will start charging walkers and fishers beginning with the new year. Starting Jan. 2, it’ll cost…

News
Ban on gender-affirming care already causing harm, families say
It’s been a tough year for Josie. We’re not using her last name to protect her privacy. Ever since Surgeon…

News
Jacksonville landmark will be reborn as apartments, restaurants and offices
A historic 109-year-old Jacksonville landmark is taking on new life. Work is underway to rehabilitate and renovate the former Union…

News
Jaguars recognize Historic Eastside CDC with inaugural Inspire Change award
Suzanne Pickett is headed to the Super Bowl. The president and CEO of the Historic Eastside Community Development Corporation was…

News
Power company money flows to news sites that attack critics
NPR’s David Folkenflik reported this story with Mario Ariza and Miranda Green of Floodlight, a nonprofit newsroom that investigates the…

News
Luxury is hot for Jacksonville shoppers
Despite concerns about inflation and economic outlook, shoppers don’t seem to be losing any interest in luxury and premium goods.…

News
Rain this week and a cold blast for the holiday
Two storm systems will bring a lot of wet weather to Florida this week and some very chilly temperatures this…

News
Judge hands Jacksonville major defeat in redistricting case
A federal judge has imposed a new Jacksonville City Council map for upcoming 2023 municipal election and handed the city…

News
Safety improvements done on Jacksonville’s West 5th Street
The ribbon was cut early Monday to officially open on one of the final Jacksonville Transportation Authority MobilityWorks projects that…

News
Sunburn Cannabis opens its doors in Jacksonville
The first of a planned wave of renewed medical marijuana retail sites in Florida has opened in Jacksonville Beach. Sunburn…

News
Baptist Health opens six-story hospital in Fleming Island
Baptist Medical Center Clay opened a hospital in Fleming Island on Monday, the most recent — and largest— addition to…

News
JEA considering $106.6 million solar deal
The JEA board of directors is considering a $106.6 million agreement to buy 150 megawatts of solar power produced by…

News
New North Florida judges drew legal challenges
Moving quickly after a Florida Supreme Court ruling, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday made appointments to four seats on a…

News
Rowe’s IGA sold for $47 million
A holding company based in Trinidad and Tobago says it has bought Rowe’s IGA Supermarkets, which operates seven Jacksonville stores,…

News
Jacksonville Children’s Chorus prepares to move Downtown
The ring of hammers and the staccato of power saws greets those who take a peek at the future home…

News
JEA may raise electric rate, but bills could fall anyway
A JEA rate increase proposed in April for the “base rate” portion of electric bills would fall heaviest on customers…

News
MOSH’s move to Northbank takes a step forward
The Museum of Science & History is a step closer to completing a site plan for its proposed relocation to…

News
Ex-cop admits he tried to entice teenage boy
Former Jacksonville police officer Alejandro Carmona-Fonseca has pleaded guilty to attempted online enticement of a teenage boy he had met…

News
Just for them: Kids with special needs get customized new wheels
Blake Barber was hanging with Santa Claus on Thursday at the Jacksonville Association of Firefighters hall when the jolly old…

News
Record-tying cargo ship joins Jacksonville rotation
A container ship tying the record for the largest to visit Jacksonville arrived at JAXPORT this week, the Jacksonville Port…

News
Neighbors push back against townhomes near downtown Fernandina
A proposal to tear down four homes and make way for townhouses just steps away from historic downtown Fernandina Beach…

News
HomeSense plans second Florida store in Mandarin
HomeSense, one of The TJX Companies Inc. off-price retail banners, is expected to open in spring 2023 in the former…

Features
JSO blames software issue for missing Kent Stermon access logs
Influential Republican donor Kent Stermon, who died last week, used a personal badge to access Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office buildings more…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Dec. 16-18
Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday Print…

News
Jacksonville firefighters honor those who have died in the line of duty
Beth Rodgers admits there are still some sad times 22 years after her fire lieutenant husband died from a heart…

News
New Winn-Dixie may be different than you think
Southeastern Grocers had not built a new Winn-Dixie grocery store in about a decade until it completed the Grand Cypress…

News
City Council approves $10.1 million for Paysafe headquarters
The Jacksonville City Council has approved a bill awarding global online payment provider Paysafe Processing Solutions LLC $10.1 million in…

News
Activist Ben Frazier arrested while protesting Confederate monuments
A Jacksonville civil rights leader was pulled out of the City Council chambers and arrested Tuesday night as he and…

Photo Essays
PHOTO ESSAY | ‘Take them down!’
Activists with the Northside Coalition and other civil rights groups implored the Jacksonville City Council Tuesday to remove the Confederate…

Features
Mayor Lenny Curry could be violating the First Amendment on Twitter
Navy veteran Mandie Marron was stationed in Jacksonville almost two decades ago. She joined Twitter mostly to keep up on…

News
State to scrutinize Duval Schools’ LGBTQ support guide
The State Board of Education is slated this week to scrutinize LGBTQ support guides and bathroom policies for transgender students…

News
Affordable senior apartments proposed in West Jacksonville
The Vestcor Cos. Inc. is proposing 90 affordable apartments in West Jacksonville for adults age 55 and over. Jacksonville-based Vestcor…

News
Costs rise for Shad Khan’s Four Seasons project
The costs of Shad Khan’s office and hotel development on the riverfront have increased substantially, City Council members learned this…

News
Rents are actually starting to decline in Jacksonville
Relief may be coming for long-suffering renters in Jacksonville. Two new studies show that rent increases are slowing. The asking…

News
Damaging wind and tornadoes are possible midweek
A strong cold front is forecast to move through the state and could lead to severe storms capable of producing…

News
Gunman critical after police shooting; second man found dead inside home
Jacksonville police said they shot a man who pointed a gun at them Monday and then found another man dead…

News
St. Marys Councilman-elect Danny Riggins dies
One of the new members of the St. Marys City Council has died before he could take office. The city…

News
Budweiser Clydesdales will trot across the First Coast
The famed Budweiser Clydesdales are coming to Northeast Florida. Two of the giant horses will appear at five Winn-Dixie stores:…

News
Sugar Factory sets opening date at Markets at Town Center
There’s now a date for Jacksonville customers looking for $46 tropical cocktails, Instagrammable walls and couture lollipops. Sugar Factory American…

News
Gas prices plunging as holiday travel arrives
As the busy holiday travel season begins, gas prices are now 11 cents lower than a year ago, and they…

Features
Jacksonville redistricting process raises questions of Sunshine Law violations
According to the version of events that Jacksonville’s city lawyers told a federal court, the City Council passed a redistricting…

News
Final Hurricane Nicole cleanup begins in St. Johns County
Scraps of wood and other materials are still scattered along St. Johns County’s beaches about a month after Hurricane Nicole…

News
Whole Foods design approved despite traffic concerns
Traffic concerns again led Downtown Development Review Board debate Dec. 8 over the design of the Whole Foods Market-anchored retail…

News
Maple Street Biscuit Co. adding locations with caution
Maple Street Biscuit Co. opened three new restaurants during parent company Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc.’s first quarter. However,…

Features
How should Jax address housing and health care? Ideas head to City Council
Jacksonville could soon take steps to address homelessness, a lack of affordable housing and inequitable access to healthcare. That’s after…

News
A bill would provide tax relief for property owners affected by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole
Nearly 50,000 property owners forced from their homes for more than a month by Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole could…

News
JSO was investigating prominent local political donor found dead
A prominent Northeast Florida businessman and political donor has died. Atlantic Beach police said they found Kent Stermon, 50, late…

News
Florida legislator, who sponsored ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law, resigns amid federal fraud charges
A Republican Florida lawmaker, who authored the controversial law dubbed “Don’t Say Gay,” resigned Thursday, the day after he was…

News
USS Orleck causes riverfront hotel ‘significant’ financial hit; Council poised to move it
Efforts to move an historic warship parked on Jacksonville’s Downtown waterfront to its permanent home accelerated during City Council committee…

News
Jacksonville city shelter stops taking dogs after virus case
Jacksonville’s city-run shelter is refusing most new dogs for at least two weeks after pneumovirus was detected. While just one…

News
Is your kid’s teacher a Duval Teacher of the Year finalist?
The Jacksonville Public Education Fund on Thursday announced the finalists for the VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year for…

News
Disagreements surface over the training of public school librarians in Florida
With a Jan. 1 deadline looming, a state Department of Education workgroup is crafting a training that all school-library workers…

News
A Florida state representative has been indicted on federal fraud charges
State Rep. Joe Harding has been indicted on charges of wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements in an…

News
Jacksonville Beach Elementary evacuated because of bomb threat
Jacksonville Beach Elementary is cleared after a bomb threat caused an evacuation Thursday morning. “All students and staff are safe,…

News
20th annual Jacksonville Gingerbread Extravaganza brings builders from far and wide
The aroma of gingerbread fills the air inside the historic sanctuary of Old St. Andrews Church as Paisley Engram looks…

News
Legal drama in Florida court hearing over Marsy’s Law and whether police names can be kept secret
Florida’s Supreme Court on Wednesday wrestled during a hearing in Tallahassee over questions about whether a new law protecting the…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Dec. 9-11
Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday Milagros:…

News
Jacksonville airport opens military lounge 2 months after USO shut center there
Bob Henning smiled as he looked around the comfortable living room-like lounge on Wednesday morning, a Christmas tree and fake…

News
A study finds more kids struggling with suicidal thoughts. Florida hospitals see it firsthand
More children and teens are visiting emergency rooms for mental health crises, according to a study recently published in the…

News
Florida high court to consider: Are police officers victims when they shoot someone in line of duty?
The Florida Supreme Court will consider arguments Wednesday in a case over whether the identities of police officers who kill…

News
Jacksonville’s Changing Homelessness gets $2.5M Bezos grant to ‘double down on our work’
Jacksonville-based Changing Homelessness has received a $2.5 million grant — the largest in the agency’s nearly 50-year history of serving…

News
Plane flies Confederate flag and message to Mayor Curry after his window is apparently shot
A bullet appears to have been shot at Mayor Lenny Curry’s office window at City Hall this week. As the…

News
Florida lawmakers will tackle major insurance issues next week
With Florida’s property-insurance system in turmoil, state lawmakers could be poised to take major steps to try to stabilize the…

News
Test Post 12-6-22
Duval County Public Schools Superintendent Diana Greene is nearing half a decade in her position, a remarkable feat. Greene, who…

News
$9K reward offered for tips in 13-year-old’s drive-by shooting death
With anger in his voice, Jacksonville’s new sheriff vowed Monday evening to add more investigators on the Saturday night shooting…

News
Duval among bottom Florida counties for kindergarten vaccinations, worst for 7th grade
Last school year marked a more than 10-year low for Florida’s kindergarten and seventh-grade students completing all doses of required…

News
Jacksonville Job Fair: Over 40 companies hiring 1,500 jobs
Need a fresh start? Now’s your chance! Job News USA is hosting a hiring event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.…

News
DeSantis’ office confirms a plan is brewing to shield local taxpayers from Disney fight fallout
Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration says he doesn’t make “U-Turns.” The administration released a statement Friday after the Financial Times reported…

Happening Now
MAD DADS anti-violence group calls fatal shooting of 13-year-old ‘tragic for our community’
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is investigating a drive-by shooting that killed a 13-year-old boy and injured others in Northwest Jacksonville.The…

News
19th century shipwreck reappears on Little Talbot Island
A hunk of wooden hull from the 1800s lies among wave-flattened grasses on a beach of Little Talbot Island, uncovered…

News
Police on the hunt for drunken holiday drivers
Be forewarned: Police plan an aggressive campaign to target and stop impaired drivers over the Christmas holiday. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s…

News
Who might buy Winn-Dixie’s parent company?
From the day Southeastern Grocers Inc. emerged out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018, a sale of the Jacksonville-based supermarket…

News
Jacksonville teen creates eye-popping holiday light show
High-tech wizardry and old-school technology blend to create a holiday light show in Mandarin. Caleb Wolfram, 19, has spent countless…

News
Ribault High School dean charged with child abuse
A dean of students at Ribault High School was arrested on a charge of child abuse after a confrontation with…

News
Pete’s bar evolves with new outdoor deck
Pete’s Bar in Neptune Beach has changed a year after it was sold, but not that much. Pete’s retains most…

News
Lash the gorilla dies at Jacksonville zoo
The oldest silverback gorilla at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has died at nearly 46. Lash had lived at the zoo…

News
Dish Network feud leaves Jax without World Cup, NFL and NCAA games
Cox Media affiliates are no longer showing up on Dish Network while the two media conglomerates settle a contract dispute.…

News
Jacksonville man imprisoned for defrauding bank with phony IDs
A Jacksonville man used phony IDs to open bank accounts and, in one case, take out a $20,000 loan, according…

News
2 endangered tortoises stolen from alligator farm
Two juvenile Galapagos tortoises have been stolen from the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Farm officials are asking everyone to be…

News
Crime rate falls in Duval County, but details are scant
The total crime rate dropped in Duval County lasts year, mirroring a decline statewide, but exactly what type of crimes…

News
Free Saturdays will continue at Cummer museum
Free Saturdays will continue at Jacksonville’s Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens — even as the current program comes to…

News
Stage is set for judge’s decision on Jacksonville redistricting
Candidates and voters will know in the next three weeks what the boundaries will be for Jacksonville City Council districts…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Dec. 1-4
Every Friday, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Thursday-Friday…

News
UF quarterback Jalen Kitna booked on child porn charges
University of Florida quarterback Jalen Kitna has been arrested on charges related to child pornography. Gainesville police say Kitna was…

News
Duval Schools terminates contract with LGBTQ+ support organization
Duval County Public Schools has ended a 20-year relationship with JASMYN, Northeast Florida’s leading LGBTQ support organization for young people.…

News
Squawking PETA protest targets schools and chicken restaurants
A national animal rights group, dissuading people from eating chicken, will protest this week outside Jacksonville restaurants that serve the…

News
Georgia school threats among hundreds of hoaxes across US
Twelve Georgia school districts saw beefed-up police presence Wednesday morning after they received threats that turned out to be hoaxes,…

News
Jacksonville University plans city’s first 4-year medical school
Jacksonville’s first four-year medical school program is coming to a private university on the banks of the St. Johns River.…

News
Growing Clay County considers new fee on homebuilders
Clay County commissioners are considering introducing a new fee that will affect builders for every new home that’s constructed as…

News
The Mossfire Grill in Five Points has been sold
The Mossfire Grill, a Five Points area mainstay at 1537 Margaret St., has been sold. Ben Franco bought the restaurant…

Features
$500K idling, facilitators ghosted: A timeline of Jax Confederate monument inaction
Advocates for removing Jacksonville’s Confederate monuments are growing impatient, as two pots of money for addressing Confederate monuments on public…

News
Winn-Dixie builds new store from the ground up — its first in a decade
More than a decade has passed since Southeastern Grocers Inc. built a Winn-Dixie supermarket from the ground up. That lull…

News
DeSantis awards grant for rail improvements on Westside
Gov. Ron DeSantis was at Cecil Airport on Tuesday to award a $5.5 million grant from the Governor’s Job Growth…

News
Atlantic Beach enacts homeless restrictions — along with measures of help
A new ordinance in Atlantic Beach restricts where homeless people are allowed to sleep or camp out, but supporters believe…

News
Veterans can get free advice to start small businesses
An event Friday will help veterans and their families start and build small businesses. Seventy spots remain open for Jacksonville’s…

News
Rents are stabilizing, but they still challenge lower-income workers
Predictable seasonal slowdowns, an influx of new inventory as well as lifestyle changes should keep rents somewhat stable through the…

News
Josphine restaurant opens this week in Avondale
Avondale will host a new Italian-American restaurant Nov. 30 when Josephine opens at 3563 St. Johns Ave. in the former…

News
Jacksonville gets more help for rent and utilities
Jacksonville is getting an additional $3.3 million from the federal government to help people pay for rent and utilities, on…

News
Clay County buses: How much do you know?
Survey says: Are you aware of JTA’s Clay Community Transportation services? Then the JTA’s new community questionnaire on its Clay…

Features
2 new Northwest Jacksonville schools mix HBCU culture with elementary curriculum
Mikynzi Alexander spoke with confidence as she recited Useni Eugene Perkins’ poem “Hey, Black Child” at her school’s ribbon-cutting last…

News
FDOT hearings give the lowdown on upcoming road projects
Information on major state road projects that could affect residents all over the First Coast will be presented at two…

News
Mayo Clinic starts foundation work on oncology building
The city has issued a construction permit for the $76.27 million foundation and shell of the $233 million Mayo Clinic…

News
Airplane flies Confederate banner over TIAA Bank Field
Before the start of the Jacksonville Jaguars game on Sunday, an airplane flew over TIAA Bank Field with a banner…

News
Disney-themed clothing sets recalled over lead
That cute Disney outfit you bought your child may be hazardous to their health. The Bentex clothing group is recalling…

News
St. Johns County teachers vote down pay raise because it wasn’t enough
St. Johns County teachers have rejected a proposed pay raise, with many saying the raise wasn’t big enough. The fact…

News
Jacksonville’s homegrown stores seek local love on Small Business Saturday
They are open in Avondale and Atlantic Beach, as well as San Marco, Riverside and all over shopping districts in…

News
The ‘Real Black Friday’: Jacksonville’s Melanin Market
There’s Black Friday — and then there’s the Real Black Friday. That’s what organizers of Jacksonville’s Melanin Market are…

News
With COVID waning, JTA ends free rides for health workers
Jacksonville health care workers who ride city buses for free will have to start paying for those trips next month.…

News
Homeless, broken woman seeks $15 million for crash with deputy
Julia “Jenny” Perez says her life was destroyed by a sheriff’s deputy who slammed his cruiser into her motorcycle and…

News
Incentives approved for new Clay County manufacturing plant
The Clay County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved an incentives award this week for Project Gator — a proposal…

News
QUIZ: How well do Jaxsons know soccer?
The men’s World Cup kicked off in the Middle East for the first time this week, as host nation Qatar…

ADAPT
After Ian and Nicole, experts warn of health risks from blue-green algae
Climate change is fueling toxic blooms of blue-green algae. Exposure to poisons produced by the blooms can lead to health…

News
Sheriff T.K. Waters sets new agenda for JSO
Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters debuted his new leadership team on Tuesday, while promising big changes to how the department manages…

News
Hakka Kitchen closing after struggling in pandemic
What started as her life’s passion has so overwhelmed owner Wen Raiti that she is closing her Hakka Kitchen restaurant…

News
3 Camden County sheriff’s employees charged in inmate’s beating
Three Camden County Sheriff’s Office employees have been charged in the beating of a 41-year-old inmate inside the county jail.…

News
Historic Jacksonville church returns splendor to pipe organ and sanctuary
The mighty music thunders from the hundreds of pipes at the back of the historic nave of Jacksonville’s Basilica of…

Voter Guides
Here’s where Jacksonville’s mayoral candidates stand on key issues
In a crowded debate that featured heavy time constraints, mayoral hopefuls met Monday at the Rotary Club to explain their…

News
Still need help from Ian? You have more time.
People in Putnam and St. Johns counties have a little more time to get help for Hurricane Ian damage. The…

News
Hundreds line up for Thanksgiving food baskets
The end was near for Tanya May, after waiting in a long line of cars in front of the Mandarin…

News
Almost a third of home purchases fall through in Jacksonville
Home purchases in Jacksonville fell through last month at a higher rate than anywhere in the country, according to data…

News
USS Orleck may move down the river
The historic warship once known as the “Grey Ghost” may be moving down the St. Johns River to another temporary…

#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY: More details on ADUs, please
Q. After reading that the Jax City Council had extended the area where local homeowners can build and rent “accessory…

News
USS Cooperstown joins fleet at Naval Station Mayport
Another ship has joined the fleet at Naval Station Mayport. The pre-commissioned USS Cooperstown arrived Sunday morning ahead of possibly…

News
Ian and Nicole washed away tons of Jacksonville’s beach
Jacksonville’s beaches lost about 1.2 million cubic yards of sand to Tropical Storms Ian and Nicole, magnifying a need for…

News
Jacksonville weighs incentives for Springfield project
Jacksonville is considering $7.5 million in property tax and cash incentives to Corner Lot Development Group for its proposed multifamily,…

News
Emotional T.K. Waters sworn in as Jacksonville sheriff
Sheriff-elect T.K. Waters took an oath of office Sunday afternoon, officially becoming the third person to hold the position in…

News
EXPLORE: How DeSantis’ congressional map affected Northeast Florida midterms
Republicans narrowly flipped the U.S. House this election cycle, gaining four seats in Florida — including one in the newly…

News
Plaintiffs ask court to reject Jacksonville redistricting map
The Jacksonville City Council failed to fix the problems with its original redistricting plan, plaintiffs argued Friday in a court…

News
Jacksonville’s annual pride parade is Sunday, delayed by Hurricane Ian
Jacksonville’s annual LGBTQ pride parade is this Sunday starting at Willbranch Park, more than a month after it was originally…

News
Multispecialty surgery center opens on Jacksonville’s Southside
A new medical complex incorporating a multispecialty surgery center and multiple medical offices was officially opened Friday afternoon near Butler…

News
Marineland signs were hidden for 80 years — until Tropical Storm Nicole
Rusted and warped, they represent slices of St. Johns County’s cinematic and tourist history of about 80 years ago. Now…

News
Florida Coastal law students will have debts canceled
Former students of the now-shuttered Florida Coastal School of Law will soon have their debts canceled. This was made possible…

News
Could San Marco flooding be solved by 2024?
San Marco is known for its historic homes, eclectic shopping and dining, riverfront views and street flooding. The part about…

News
Youth art show opens at Clay County Courthouse
People going about their normal business in the Clay County Courthouse will experience original art from the community’s youth during…

News
Southeastern Grocers exploring sale, report says
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that that Jacksonville-based Southeastern Grocers Inc., the parent company of Winn-Dixie, Harveys and Fresco…

News
Bass tournament comes to Clay County — with a twist
A new competition combining bass fishing and kayaks is coming next year to Clay County. But the Kayak Bass Fishing…

News
Roadwork to disrupt Mathews Bridge traffic
Roadwork will disrupt your trip across the Mathews Bridge on the weekend. Eastbound lanes will be shut down Friday night…

News
Sheriff-elect T.K. Waters restructures Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office
Three days before he is sworn in as Jacksonville’s new sheriff, T.K. Waters announced a major restructuring of the department’s…

News
Strikes shut down two local Starbucks as part of national protest
Union strikes shut down two Jacksonville Starbucks on Thursday as part of a national protest against management. Nearly 2,000 workers…

News
Apartment community breaks ground in North Jacksonville
Fansler Construction announced Nov. 15 it broke ground on its inaugural project, The Note, a 290-unit apartment community in North…

News
Warmer, drier winter predicted for Florida
Florida is looking at a warmer and drier than average winter season according to outlooks from NOAA. This follows a…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Nov. 18-20
Every Friday, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday…

News
Mystery manufacturer considers West Jacksonville site
A manufacturer code-named Raptor Stone is considering setting up a facility on the designated megasite at Alliance Florida at Cecil…

News
Kicker Josh Lambo’s lawsuit against Jaguars dismissed
A judge has dismissed a lawsuit by former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Josh Lambo claiming that former coach Urban Meyer kicked…

News
Duval school janitor was investigated previously on complaints involving children
New details have been released about a Duval County school janitor accused of sexual battery against a child over multiple…

News
Jacksonville Light Boat Parade flows downtown on Thanksgiving weekend
Illuminated boats with glowing holiday themes will cruise around the St. Johns River on Nov. 26 as the annual Jacksonville…

News
Outrage grows over Camden jail beating
More outrage is surfacing over the beating of a 41-year-old man at the Camden County Detention Center. The Georgia Bureau…

News
Proposed social club seeks $1.3 million in incentives
More than four years after announcing plans to open Mathers Social Gathering–Jacksonville in the historic New York Steam Laundry Building…

News
Veterans survey identifies critical needs, but it didn’t reach everyone
A critical needs assessment for First Coast veterans has released its findings, but the data was limited by a lack…

News
The holidays are closer than you think, and so are these holiday events
Frightfully chilly weather is coming, and so are some of the most popular outdoor holiday events. Foremost is Saturday’s 6…

News
Jacksonville’s soon-to-be sheriff files to run again in 2023
Jacksonville Sheriff-elect T.K. Waters officially takes the oath of office on Sunday, after winning the Nov. 8 special election against…

News
School janitor jailed on multiple sexual battery charges
A 62-year-old janitor who has worked for the Duval County School district for almost 30 years is behind bars on…

News
Black Restaurant Week puts spotlight on Northeast Florida’s culinary diversity
Nearly a dozen Northeast Florida eateries are participating in Black Restaurant Week. The Jacksonville restaurants offering special dishes this week…

News
Former JEA executives want fraud trial moved
Defense lawyers launched a multi-pronged assault Monday on the federal indictment accusing JEA’s former top executives of conspiracy and wire fraud,…

News
NASCAR star Jeff Gordon will highlight The Amelia in March
NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon will serve as honoree of The Amelia concours d’elegance on the first weekend of…

News
Atlantic Beach may ban homeless from sleeping in public
A proposed ordinance in Atlantic Beach would restrict where the homeless could sleep or camp out. Introduced for its first…

News
Paysafe plans North American headquarters in Jacksonville
London-based Paysafe Ltd., a financial technology company that offers payment services, plans to open its North American headquarters in Jacksonville…

News
Small plane makes emergency landing on the beach
A small plane made an emergency landing Monday morning at Anastasia State Park’s beach, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.…

News
Take the kids to the zoo or museum — for free
There are two two weeks left in Kids Free November, a Visit Jacksonville initiative to encourage families to check out…

News
Bus delayed? You may get an alert from Duval Schools
Duval County Public Schools have rolled out a new way to notify families when their child’s school bus was running…

News
Jacksonville approves expansion of ‘accessory dwelling units’
The Jacksonville City Council has passed legislation that expands where accessory dwelling units — ADUs — can be built and…

News
St. Johns County assesses extent of Nicole’s wrath
Tropical Storm Nicole pummeled the coastline in St. Johns County, but it will take time to figure how many homes…

News
Floodwaters remain on Ken Knight Drive after flowing through homes
Matt Mitchell walked to the back of the home he is renovating on Ken Knight Drive to show how far…

News
St. Johns Golf Club reopening after $8 million renovation
The St. Johns County Golf Club has scheduled its reopening for 1 p.m. Nov. 29 after an $8 million renovation…

News
Flood warning continues in Nicole’s wake
Muddy remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole’s flooding pooled Friday morning on Riverside and San Marco streets, and a flood warning…

News
Military lounge will replace USO at Jacksonville airport
The airport lounge for traveling U-S military and their families will have a new place to relax at Jacksonville International…

News
Duval’s colon cancer rate is higher than Florida’s. A local doctor studied whether personal phone calls about screening could help.
When Black Panther: Wakanda Forever debuts this week it will serve as a cinematic eulogy to Chadwick Boseman. The actor…

News
Pete’s Bar bash is back with a hitch — the Clydesdales
The annual Pete’s Giving event in Neptune Beach on Thanksgiving Day will have some famous visitors this year — the…

News
Tropical Storm Nicole has moved on, but risks remain
Tropical Storm Nicole might have passed, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe outside. Kevin Guthrie, director for the Florida Division…

News
Loan approved for affordable housing in Arlington
The Jacksonville City Council approved a $5 million, low-interest loan to The Vestcor Companies Inc. to help finance Madison Palms,…

News
Tractor-trailer overturns on Dames Point Bridge
An overturned tractor-trailer closed northbound lanes of the Dames Point Bridge on Thursday morning. The incident happened just before 9:30…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Nov. 11-13
Every week, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday…

News
Deadlines extended for voters with ballot problems
Thanks to Tropical Storm Nicole, voters have a few extra days to fix any problems with their ballots from the…

News
Nicole races across Florida; flooding swamps the First Coast
Hurricane Nicole made landfall about 3 a.m. Thursday near Vero Beach and quickly weakened to a tropical storm, but Northeast…

News
Brace yourself: Tropical Storm Nicole is moving into Northeast Florida
The outer edge of massive Tropical Storm Nicole reached Northeast Florida on Wednesday, bringing widespread cancellations and the potential for…

News
T.K. Waters is Jacksonville’s next sheriff
T.K. Waters, a former chief of investigations for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, will take over the top seat after securing…

News
St. Johns County says no to higher sales tax
St. Johns County voters were adamant: They do not want to pay more sales tax. Voters on Tuesday defeated a…

News
Aaron Bean leads GOP wave in congressional races
Aaron Bean will be Northeast Florida’s representative in the newly drawn Congressional District 4. The Fernandina Beach resident comfortably defeated…

News
Northeast Florida Republicans carry the day in state Legislature
As with their fellow Republicans farther up the ballot, GOP candidates for seats in the state Legislature dominated yesterday’s midterm…

News
Here’s everything that’s closing for Tropical Storm Nicole
More events and businesses are closing or rescheduling as Tropical Storm Nicole creeps closer.We’ll add to this list as they’re…

News
Veterans Day Parade canceled in Jacksonville
With Tropical Storm Nicole approaching, Jacksonville has canceled the Veterans Day Parade and breakfast scheduled for Friday morning. Mayor Lenny…

News
Evacuations recommended ahead of Tropical Storm Nicole
Tropical Storm Nicole, approaching hurricane strength, is bearing down on Florida, and a tropical storm warning has been issued for…

News
Oceanfront home on Amelia Island sells for record $13.35 million
An oceanfront home at 43 Ocean Club Drive on Amelia Island has sold for $13.35 million. It is the most…

News
Apartments approved to replace Adventure Landing
The Jacksonville Beach City Council says a proposal to replace the Adventure Landing amusement and water park with a 415-unit…

News
Trailblazer Dr. Charles B. McIntosh paves path for clinic, community center in Northwest Jax
A smile slowly crept across Dr. Charles B. McIntosh’s face as he watched the unveiling last week of a rendering…

News
EXPLORE: Duval GOP leads early voting ahead of Election Day
About 30% of registered Duval County voters have already cast a ballot – that’s more than 136,000 people who voted…

News
Jacksonville Zoo renovation takes major step forward
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is 75% of the way toward its $52 million “Rezoovenation” fundraising campaign, with a $2.25…

News
Subtropical Storm Nicole could mirror Ian on the First Coast
More wind, rain and possible storm surges are coming our way as the Atlantic hurricane season aims one more punch…

News
Eastside may be bound for national historic designation
The six tiny shotgun houses that sit snugly together along Oakley Street are faded, chipped and sagging, showing every bit…

News
Lawsuit refiled against Duval Schools over gender instruction law
Parents, students and a nonprofit group have filed a revised lawsuit against Duval and three other school districts, challenging a…

News
Subtropical Storm Nicole could approach hurricane strength as it nears Florida
Subtropical Storm Nicole formed overnight Monday and is forecast to strengthen as it approaches Florida on Thursday. As of early…

News
Homes evacuated after fire at Brunswick chemical plant
Residents in Georgia — the Hickory Bluff and Sanctuary Cove areas — have been asked to evacuate and shelter in…

News
‘Poll chaplains’ prep for Jacksonville Election Day
Southside Jacksonville evangelist Doris Rodgers spent her Friday morning posted outside the Northside’s Highlands Regional Library, one of Jacksonville’s early…
News
After fits and starts, Jacksonville council approves new districts
Under the gun of a tight deadline, the Jacksonville City Council on Friday approved a new map of council districts…

News
Persimmon Festival celebrates urban agriculture on First Coast
The local nursery Eat Your Yard Jax is having its second annual Persimmon Festival this weekend. Eat Your Yard Jax…

News
TIAA Bank Field will keep its name for some time
The announcement Thursday that TIAA is selling its Jacksonville-based bank means the city-owned stadium and home of the Jacksonville Jaguars…

News
Three sentenced in Duval County voting schemes
Sentences were handed down in Jacksonville this week in two voting-related crimes, according to the State Attorney’s Office. And a…

News
Jacksonville City Council plans to vote today on new district maps
The Jacksonville City Council plans to vote Friday on new district maps after the old ones were struck down as…

News
Candlelight vigil fights rash of antisemitic messages
Flames flickered in the hands of dozens Thursday night at James Weldon Johnson Park as community groups gathered with local…

Photo Essays
PHOTO ESSAY | Unity vigil to denounce anti-Semitism in Jacksonville
Mariam Feist was direct: It is going to take a community-wide effort to “combat the root causes of bias.” Feist,…

News
City Council rolls back redistricting changes
The Jacksonville City Council is committing to an all-day meeting Friday to finalize a proposed map of new city council…

News
At long last, curbside recycling returns in Clay County
After more than 15 months, Clay County is going to resume curbside recycling. Pickup will resume Dec. 5 for the…

News
$1 million fund established to combat antisemitism
In response to rising hate speech, a $1 million fund has been established to combat antisemitism in the Jacksonville area.…

#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY: Where can recyclables be dropped off?
Q: Jacksonville Today reader Marla P. has a problem when it comes to her household recyclable items: Her condo building…

News
TIAA Bank will be sold and renamed
TIAA announced Thursday that it is selling its Jacksonville-based bank to a group of investment funds to focus on its…

News
St. Johns County doctor accused of illegally distributing prescription drugs
A St. Johns County doctor faces charges of illegally distributing prescription medication. According to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office,…

News
Employees can’t shield messages in Ascension malpractice case
An appeals court Wednesday rejected an attempt by employees of Ascension St. Vincent’s hospital to shield text messages from being…

News
Police confronted antisemitic protesters on I-10, report shows
The day before someone splashed antisemitic messages around Downtown Jacksonville, police confronted a small group of men hanging similar banners…

News
Jacksonville homicides hit high point two months before 2023
The victims range from a 15-year-old boy shot dead on March 12 on 103rd Street, to an 82-year-old woman who…

News
Judy Coughlin, wife of former Jaguars head coach, dies of brain disease
Judy Coughlin, wife of former Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Tom Coughlin, died Wednesday of an incurable brain disease. Coughlin revealed…

News
Riverside Avondale Preservation supporters fight redistricting plan
A leader of Riverside Avondale Preservation said Wednesday that residents of the historic neighborhood will “fight hard” against a proposed…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Nov. 4-6
Every week, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Friday…

News
Right whale protections pit Rubio and Scott against environmentalists
Proposals to protect endangered right whales from extinction have put Florida’s two U.S. senators at odds with environmentalists. Senators from…

News
Ian housing aid still available in Putnam and St. Johns counties
Several types of housing assistance remain available for residents of Putnam and St. Johns counties whose homes were damaged or…

News
Condom demo policy approved; more sex ed changes coming in Duval
The Duval County school district has published new, proposed sex education materials ahead of a public vote next month. The…

News
City Council redistricting moves forward with two maps and little public input
A special redistricting committee of the Jacksonville City Council is moving forward with two draft maps ahead of a Nov.…
News
Southwest Florida still desperate for supplies
They’re calling it a “flash donation drive” — the flash mob version of collecting donations for victims of Hurricane Ian.…

News
Volunteer group establishes beachhead in Jax to help veteran-owned businesses
Military veterans with a solid plan for a new business have a new volunteer-run organization to help them get it…

News
Over protests, UF selects Ben Sasse as its next president
The University of Florida on Tuesday formally selected Ben Sasse as its next president, setting aside concerns that the appointment…

News
Cumberland Island seeks feedback on visitor plan
A management plan that will help visitors better enjoy the 40-square-mile Cumberland Island National Seashore barrier island off St. Marys,…

News
Nassau County adds 20th park — a ‘dream come true’
The first 40-acre phase of Nassau County’s 20th park officially opens Tuesday on Edwards Road, just west of Interstate 95.…

News
Jacksonville’s DePaul School sees high demand for dyslexia methods
Jacksonville’s DePaul School is seeing high demand for its approach to teaching kids with dyslexia The condition is a language-based…

News
JaxPort gets $23.5 million grant to lower emissions
The Jacksonville Port Authority has received a $23.5 million federal grant to fund part of the port’s $47 million program…

News
Prosecution unlikely for antisemitic messages around Jacksonville
The antisemitic messages plastered around Jacksonville over the weekend were disturbing and distasteful, but they probably weren’t criminal, legal experts…

News
100,000 have voted early in Northeast Florida
A week into early voting, Republicans in Northeast Florida are going to the polls in far greater numbers than Democrats.…

News
T.K. Waters leads sheriff race in new UNF poll
T.K. Waters, the Republican candidate for Jacksonville sheriff, leads Democratic opponent Lakesha Burton by 5 points in a poll released…

News
Antisemitic messages shake Jacksonville
Antisemitic messages displayed around Jacksonville — including TIAA Bank Field — brought outrage from state and local leaders and questions…

News
More conflict roils Jacksonville sheriff race
The debate over whether a former Jacksonville sheriff’s candidate traded his endorsement for a job got deeper and more confusing…

News
Jury recommends death in killing of 2 Putnam boys
After a long week of sentencing hearing testimony, a Putnam County jury unanimously recommended the death penalty Friday for Mark…

News
Town homes fill budget niche in Northeast Florida
The dream of purchasing a first home conjures thoughts of a detached home with a fenced yard, two-car garage and…

News
National RSV surge hits Jacksonville
Respiratory syncytial virus — RSV — is surging across the U.S., and Jacksonville kids aren’t being spared. Dr. Mobeen Rathore,…

News
Walmart Health to open 3 more clinics in Jacksonville
Walmart will open three health centers in Jacksonville as part of 16 expected in Florida by fall 2023. The Jacksonville…

News
Florida family scammed by fake real estate deal in Jacksonville
A fake real estate agent scammed a Port Charlotte family into leasing a Northwest Jacksonville home that it had no…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Oct. 28-30
Every Friday, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the weekend. Tonight…

News
Demand for office space grows in Jacksonville
The number of unused or unoccupied office spaces around Jacksonville, which jumped during the COVID-19 pandemic, is decreasing at the…

News
Gators and Dawgs descend on Jacksonville; what you need to know to get around.
Football fans descending on TIAA Bank Field for Saturday’s classic Georgia-Florida game will find familiar surroundings: lots of traffic and…

News
People trust Jacksonville nonprofits; they have less faith in government
The nonprofit sector is the third most trusted institution in the Jacksonville area, just behind individual volunteers and the military,…

News
JEA customers will finally get a reprieve
After a summer of high bills, JEA customers may finally experience some relief — for a month, at least. The…

News
Amazon developer explores Craig Airport land for delivery center
An apparent Amazon.com delivery station is in review for Jacksonville Aviation Authority property targeted for industrial development near Jacksonville Executive…

Voter Guides
NOV. 8 VOTER GUIDE: Duval, Alachua Soil and Water Conservation Districts
These are the candidates for soil and water conservation district in Duval and Alachua counties. Soil and water conservation districts…

News
Black pastors demand meeting with sheriff over sergeant’s tweets
A group of Jacksonville clergy are demanding that the Sheriff’s Office take action against the sergeant who apparently posted disparaging…

News
Nassau jailer fired and charged with beating inmate
A corrections officer in Nassau County has been fired and charged with battery after an inmate was beaten, pepper-sprayed and…

News
Advocates pressure Jacksonville on redistricting
With time running out, pressure is mounting on Jacksonville City Council to create new council maps that advocates say will…

News
Atlantic Beach bans smoking at beach and parks
In Atlantic Beach, it’s now illegal to use the beach as a giant ashtray. Citing health and environmental concerns, the…

News
Could Duval’s Black voters dictate the Florida midterms?
Moné Holder does not need to be reminded of the importance of next month’s elections. “If we’re about to energize,…

News
JSO investigates reports of sergeant’s racist social media posts
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has begun an investigation into a sergeant accused of posting racist messages on social media. Internal…

News
‘Part of the fabric of Jacksonville’: Contract talks loom for Florida-Georgia game
It is a college pigskin classic that annually nets about $20 million for Jacksonville’s economy as fans from Florida and…

News
How Jacksonville faded as a banking headquarters
Jacksonville was known as the banking headquarters of Florida for much of the 20th century, with three major bank headquarters…

News
Former Jaguar Gardner Minshew sells Ponte Vedra Beach home for $890,000
Former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew II has sold his one-time St. Johns County home for $890,000. Minshew sold the…

News
Duval Schools did better than most during pandemic
Duval County students’ fourth-grade test scores fell for both math and reading as part of a national slide blamed on…

News
Van Gogh exhibit extended through Feb. 26
If you’re still hoping to see the Van Gogh immersive experience, you’ll be happy to know it’s going to stick…

News
Pastor calls for investigation of cop’s racially oriented tweets
A local pastor is calling for disciplinary action against a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office sergeant for social media posts that some…

News
How long will Jax keep the Florida-Georgia game?
The University of Florida and the University of Georgia issued a joint statement Monday that indicated the issue of whether…

News
Democrat Ken Jefferson crosses party lines to endorse T.K. Waters for sheriff
A Democrat who ran and lost his primary race for Jacksonville sheriff crossed party lines Monday and endorsed Republican candidate…

News
How to guard against property and mortgage scams
A new program in Northeast Florida could protect you from scammers who would steal your home, land or business property.…

News
Cigar superstore proposed for Town Center area
From supermarkets to luxury retail stores and fast-food favorites to destination restaurants, the greater St. Johns Town Center area offers…

News
Jacksonville may start inspecting your recycling bins
Jacksonville recyclers could see an “oops” tag attached to their bins next year — a calling card as part of…

News
Judge dismisses challenge to ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law
In a lawsuit against Duval and other school districts, a federal judge has refused to block the districts from carrying…

News
Waterfront shopping district among ideas for Clay County
Clay County leaders are eyeing major improvements to their tourism industry that could bring everything from a huge waterfront shopping…

Happening Now
Free shuttles are back for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights
Navigating to and from the winter holiday’s Nights of Lights in St. Augustine will get easier beginning on Nov. 19,…

Happening Now
Debate pits Jacksonville candidates for sheriff before Nov. 8 runoff
With the election just over two weeks away, the candidates to be Jacksonville’s next sheriff squared off in a lively…

Arts & Culture
ARTS PICKS | Oct. 21-23
Every Friday, Jacksonville Today Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw shares his top 3 arts and culture picks for the…

Happening Now
Oceanfront home on Amelia Island sells for record $13.35 million
An oceanfront home at 43 Ocean Club Drive on Amelia Island sold this week for $13.35 million. It is the…

Happening Now
Jacksonville hires redistricting expert after gerrymandering ruling
A day after Jacksonville argued in court that it didn’t have enough time to pass new redistricting maps, City Council President…

Happening Now
Nearly 55,000 have voted by mail in Northeast Florida
A total of 54,975 people in Northeast Florida have cast vote-by-mail ballots for the Nov. 8 election. Republicans have cast…

Happening Now
Dry, warm winter likely as La Niña continues for third year
La Niña is expected to lead to a warmer and drier winter across Florida during the upcoming winter season for…

Happening Now
Rory Diamond to resign from K9s for Warriors
Jacksonville City Councilman Rory Diamond has announced he will step down as CEO of K9s for Warriors, the Ponte Vedra…

Happening Now
New JTA app comes with free rides on the First Coast
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority is launching a new version of their smartphone application MyJTA on Monday, and with it comes…

Happening Now
Duval Schools still out of compliance with new state laws
The Florida State Board of Education says Duval Schools is one of 11 districts not complying with new state laws,…
