The Florida Times-Union
Who is your favorite fictional animal?
Scott Butler Metro edotor I’ll co old scmool wotm Toccer and newer scmool wotm Hobbes. Botm capture cmoldren’s (and adults’) Tancoes and omaconatoon. Boll Watterson, tme master bemond Calvon & Hobbes, also partocularly onspored me to draw. And really...
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Duval County high school graduation rate hits high
Duval County’s graduation rates for traditional high schools surged in 2025 to 97.6%, exceeding statewide achievements that education officials celebrated January 13 as historic. Graduation rates for the entire Duval school district, which included...
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DeSantis pushes property tax cuts in final address
Facing a skeptical GOP majority and entering his last year in office, Gov. Ron DeSantis emphasized major property tax cuts and new regulations for artificial intelligence as the main planks of his agenda in his eighth and final State of the State...
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MAYBE NEXT YEAR
The Jacksonville Jaguars fell just short at home against the Buffalo Bills, exiting in the AFC Wild Card round of the playoffs. ABOVE: Bills signal a touchdown by Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen (17) during the second quarter on Jan. 11 in Jacksonville.
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Furor continues over ICE shootings
Tensions remained high Jan. 9 after shootings involving immigration agents in Minneapolis and in Portland, Oregon, drew protesters to the streets and deepened fractures between federal and state officials. In Portland, a U.S. Border Patrol officer...
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CITY HOMICIDE NUMBERS RISE
Ayear ago saw the most dramatic reduction in deadly shootings, beatings and stabbings in Jacksonville this century, and many wondered if it could be sustainable. h Unofficially at 115 homicides for 2025, the answer is no – but with a caveat. A 37%...
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‘Now the real season starts’ for Jaguars
They are always about the next opponent and challenge, this upstart Jacksonville Jaguars team. Acknowledge the accomplishment and then move on, a matter-of-fact approach that propelled them from a 4-13 punchline to a 13-4 freight train. Almost...
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AFC SOUTH CHAMPS!
Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Quintin Morris scores a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla.
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DOUBLE TROUBLE
Bolles running back Edwards and defensive end Ghioto are linked in the high school football history books for Northeast Florida, as the Times-Union’s All-First Coast offensive and defensive players of the year for 2025.
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CREATURE DISCOMFORTS
Everyone knows by now that Florida has a problem with the invasive Burmese python. Wild Burmese pythons can pose some risk to humans, even those who aren’t purposefully pursuing them. Traffic accidents involving large pythons crossing roads are one...
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AI to review Medicare claims in pilot program
A new Medicare program that uses artificial intelligence to review medical claims is set to launch in six states. Critics worry it will lead to patients being denied necessary care and more red tape for providers. The controversial new six-year pilot...
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China encircles Taiwan in huge drill
TAIPEI, Taiwan – China fired rockets into waters off Taiwan on Dec. 30, showcased new assault ships and dismissed prospects of U.S. and allied intervention to block any future attack by Beijing to take control of the island in its most extensive war...
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Brooks Rehab to expand at Bartram, Orange Park
In 2026, Jacksonville-based Brooks Rehabilitation will begin three major construction projects, costing a total of $68 million and creating 150 new jobs. The projects – expansion of Brooks Bartram Park campus and its Orange Park outpatient clinic and...
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JAGUARS SURVIVE
Afourth quarter Jarrian Jones interception led to the game-deciding field goal as the Jaguars defeated the Colts in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium. Above: Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) hands off to running back Travis Etienne...
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What are you looking forward to in 2026?
Demetrius Harvey Jaguars reporter Sometmonc I’m lookonc Torward to os coveronc a playoTT run. I’ve somemow lucked out and covered tme Jacuars’ last run on 2022 and ot looks loke tmat’ll be tme case tmos year. Sonce 2000, tme Jacuars mave made tme...
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Trump may be repeating Biden mistake on economy
Americans might be experiencing a bit of déjà vu after watching President Donald Trump trying to cheer up the country amid national anxiety about the cost of living. During a 20-minute speech from the White House on Dec. 17, Trump plowed through a...
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Turning Point USA gains ground on campuses
Apair of students stood in the Indiana University Indianapolis student center asking a simple legal question: “Is ‘hate speech’ protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution?” Students slowed to read the white board, and many shuffled toward...
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Will ‘penny’ phrases disappear or endure?
By now, many Americans know the U.S. Mint won’t be making more pennies. Some businesses began reporting shortages of the coins even before the last pennies were stamped. h Another possible repercussion of the penny’s passing? Some colorful...
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Daily’s Place to close during stadium work
When the Jonas Brothers walk off the stage at the end of their Dec. 30 concert at Daily’s Place, the show won’t be the only thing coming to an end — the venue itself will shut down for at least three years. Bold Events, the events-organizing firm...
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Husband gives home to charity
When Rick and Susan Sontag built their Mediterranean villa by the sea in 1994, they envisioned the home as their retirement refuge, as well as a spot for large family gatherings or even community events. The two of them both grew up in a Southern...
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What’s something you will remember about 2025?
Scott Butler Metro edotor I don’t want to be a buzz koll, but I woll always remember moldonc my dear pup Cmance tmroucm mer Tonal breatms on May 27. Sme was a neocmbormood doc wmo ran amok Tor tme most part and tmen was abandoned by mer evocted,...
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LONG-SOUGHT PUBLIX WINS BOARD’S SUPPORT
Downtown and Springfield residents moved a step closer to having a Publix for their shopping when the Downtown Investment Authority unanimously approved a $49.6 million incentive package for a building that will have space for the grocery store, an...
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Trump has ‘alcoholic’s personality,’ Wiles says
WASHINGTON – Donald Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, told Vanity Fair magazine in a dishy interview published Dec. 16 that she had a loose agreement with the president that he would not settle scores with his critics and political rivals after the...
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Person of interest seen masked in new images
A search in Rhode Island rolled into its fourth day Dec. 16 as federal and state officers pursued a suspect who opened fire during a final exam at Brown University, killing two, injuring nine and leaving no obvious indication of a motive. The widening...
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Food costs still ‘big challenge’
More than two-thirds of shoppers recently surveyed said they’re struggling with the cost of groceries. In a survey by Swiftly, 68% of shoppers said because of overall inflation and rising food costs, they were struggling to pay their grocery...
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TREVOR, TRAVIS TRIUMPH
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence threw five touchdowns and ran for another, and Travis Etienne had three receiving touchdowns to lead Jacksonville past the New York Jets. Above: Lawrence (16) passes in the first quarter of the game at...
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Helping is what it’s all about
In my 45-year career as a journalist, I have worked at newspapers in four states. They covered large communities and small communities, each with all the usual societal ills. In every one of those communities, an organization was working to solve...
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2-story restaurant planned next to Friendship Fountain
Jacksonville is moving forward with plans to build a new restaurant in St. Johns River Park next to Friendship Fountain using a design by CD+Urban Studio. The architectural firm showed the last renderings for the chosen design during a Dec. 11 meeting...
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COUNCIL EARMARKS $15M FOR HIGHER ED
A $15 million assortment of spending on higher education and vocational training won approval by Jacksonville City Council after months of debate that still left a piece of funding for Edward Waters University up in the air. The legislation earmarks...
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Florida drought hurting farmers
In a year with no hurricanes, most Floridians have been thankful to not have to board up windows, evacuate to higher ground or stock up on flashlights and bottled water. h But for Florida’s agricultural sector, months without rain have caused other...
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MAIN STREET BRIDGE GETS LOVE
Call it a tale of two Jacksonville bridges. h A newly formed community group spearheaded by City Council member Ken Amaro and Jacksonville History Center CEO Alan Bliss will work to make the case for replacing the 72-year-old Mathews Bridge with a new...
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Jaguars crush Colts
Trevor Lawrence threw two touchdowns and Travis Etienne ran for two more as the Jaguars defeated the Colts to take control of the AFC South lead. Above: Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (3) rushes for yards during the second quarter of...
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What is your favorite thing about the holiday season?
My favorite part of the holidays is seeing how creative folks get when outfitting their homes with lighting and other decorations. Even if I’ve had an especially rough day, for whatever reason, it always puts a smile on my face when driving...
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CROWD PROTESTS REDISTRICTING PANEL
More than 150 people traveled across Florida to voice their opposition to the state House’s initial hearing on congressional redistricting – a rare, off-cycle redraw sought by President Trump to increase Republican chances of retaining control of...
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Trump is resetting auto fuel economy standards
President Donald Trump announced at the White House on Dec. 3 that he is rolling back fuel-efficiency standards for cars and trucks set by the Biden administration, a move that makes it easier for automakers to sell gas-powered vehicles. Signed into...
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STADIUM COSTS EXPECTED TO RISE
The cost of renovating EverBank Stadium might end up being around $100 million higher than the original $1.4 billion estimate, a top city official said Dec. 2. The city’s agreement with Jaguars owner Shad Khan will put the cost of any overruns solely...
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Costs for construction of MOSH building rising
The Museum of Science and History still must raise tens of millions of dollars for a planned new museum beside the St. Johns River as MOSH faces a strong current of increasing construction costs for the building. MOSH proposes to cut the cost of...
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HURRICANE SEASON FULL OF CONTRASTS
The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season that ended Nov. 30 was one for the record books, but maybe not in the way anyone expected when it began June 1. For the first time in a decade, no hurricane made landfall in the United States, a welcome respite to...
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City whetting school’s appetite
Jacksonville’s expansion of higher education institutions might eventually range from semiconductors to souffles. The Culinary Institute of America, whose award-winning graduates include the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, has had some talks...
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Where is your favorite place to get a cheap bite to eat?
Corey Perrine Visual journalist For a unique place, try Mama Lu’s (Filipino food) at 968 St Johns Bluff Road N. in Jacksonville. I think a two-meat lunch plate with rice is about $10. And, as almost everyone knows: A Costco hotdog and drink is still...
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FL man detained in raid in ICE ‘tank’ for 6 months
Faustino Macedo has many things to be thankful for this year. His wife, his children, his health. But most importantly, he’s thankful for his freedom. After 172 days, or almost six months, in a U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement facility in...
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Wounded Knee love story relevant today
Like many star-crossed lovers, Elaine Goodale and Charles Alexander Eastman came from different worlds. Goodale, born in 1863 to a family claiming Puritan roots, grew up on a farm in a remote part of western Massachusetts. In 1858, a baby first named...
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Russell Rowland Inc. drive crushes turkey goal
They hoped for 600 turkeys. But after a three-day community drive, Russell Rowland Inc. had a total of 801 turkeys, each of which will end up on a needy family’s Thanksgiving table in Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. “We are overwhelmed by the...
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Trump urges action after Chicago shooting
President Donald Trump revived calls to ramp up the federal government’s military crackdown in Chicago after a 14-year-old was killed and eight other teenagers were wounded during weekend shootings in the city’s bustling downtown corridor. In a Nov....
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SOME PRICES STILL HIGH FOR THANKSGIVING
America’s celebration of abundance this month arrives as climbing food prices once again have people tightening their belts. But depending on where they shop, the traditional star of the show – the turkey – could be the inflation fighter Thanksgiving...
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Duval schools’ HQ site could get a $300M redevelopment
The developer buying the Duval County school district’s Southbank headquarters could spend up to $300 million building the next glistening towers on the downtown Jacksonville riverfront. The results will be worth the money, Michael Balanky...
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Obamacare subsidies set to expire. What does it mean for Florida?
A deal to end the longest federal government shutdown in history left out the extension of Obamacare subsidies — and that omission will hit the Sunshine State harder than any other. No other state has a greater percentage of people — about 4.6 million...
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City updates plans for Shipyards West Park
In the big three of downtown riverfront parks, Shipyards West Park will be the one in the middle between Riverfront Plaza and Metropolitan Park. Shipyards West Park will create the biggest transformation of all, taking what has been vacant land that...
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MORE COVERAGE ONLINE
To read all our coverage, go to jacksonville.com for complete team coverage. We’ll have Demetrius Harvey’s game takeaways, Ryan O’Halloran’s column, Garry Smits’ grades, photo galleries, videos and so much more. Also, check out photos at Instagram at...
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Residents embrace life in ‘City of Souls’
COLMA, CA – As Richard Rocchetta piloted his Toyota through a sea of weather-beaten headstones and mausoleums that sprawl over hilly, manicured lawns of his hometown, he pointed to some of his best-known neighbors. There’s Joe DiMaggio, the “Yankee...
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USDA working to comply with SNAP order
The Trump administration is working to comply with a federal judge’s order to provide full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for November amid the government shutdown, as per a Nov. 7 memo from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The...
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SHUTDOWN SPURS HELP
The front door of Arlington Community Services facing Rogero Road is where clients enter the building and meet with volunteers who load up shopping baskets with food for them to take home. The back door is where donors drop off the food those same...
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$370 per passenger trip
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s cost of providing rides on its new autonomous shuttles is about $370 for each passenger who boards the shuttles that operate between the heart of downtown and the sports complex, according to a Times-Union...
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Riverfront Plaza’s first phase nears completion
Riverfront Plaza has gone green. The installation of trees and grass has given the ongoing construction an almost-finished look for the first phase slated to open by the end of the year on the former site of the Jacksonville Landing. The opening...
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A partial SNAP benefit distribution is planned
WASHINGTON – The Trump administration said it plans to partially fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program after two federal judges ruled the U.S. Department of Agriculture must use its contingency funds to cover the program during the...
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INSIDE THE NORWEGIAN GEM
The first wave of passengers for Norwegian Cruise Line’s launch from Jacksonville boarded the ship on Oct. 31 for its inaugural trip as city leaders called it a win for the city’s tourism industry. h Norwegian Cruise Line will offer seasonal sailings...
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If it’s local you want, we’ve got it.
Our Sunday refresh offers more local news and sports, as well as “Weekend Exclusive” content to help you navigate your lives. So enjoy your Sunday reading filled with stories that will inspire, educate, inform and entertain you.
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Jacksonville-area food pantries expect surge
Jacksonville-area nonprofits that offer emergency food assistance have dealt with increasing demand for months, even before the Oct. 1 federal government shutdown. Now they are expecting a new surge of people seeking help because of the likely funding...
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Jamaica, Cuba survey Melissa’s aftermath
Parts of the Caribbean slowly began surveying the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa after the storm brought destruction to the region and left dozens of people dead. AccuWeather estimated Melissa could cost $22 billion in damages and...
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FIVE POINTS GETS DISTRICT APPROVED
The history and walkability of Five Points drew Dori Thomsen and her husband to its cluster of shops, restaurants and offices when they bought a building that had its own parking lot for use by their clients at Soluna Yoga Spa. h The Thomsens had no...
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Florida immigration enforcement director Keefe exits post
The state of Florida has suddenly replaced the head of its State Board of Immigration Enforcement. At an Oct. 28 meeting, the board said goodbye to Larry Keefe, who held its executive director position since February of this year, a total of eight...
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Melissa nears Jamaica as powerful Category 5
As Hurricane Melissa barreled toward Jamaica on Oct. 27, the nation braced for possibly its worst hurricane in recorded history, evacuating parts of its capital, closing airports and opening more than 800 shelters. Melissa, a Category 5 storm, was...
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Airport concourse work at midpoint
Construction of a $300 million Jacksonville International Airport concourse that could bring new dining options for travelers and possibly international flights — Mexico and the Caribbean are two possible destinations — hit the midway mark on Oct. 24...
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If it’s local you want, we’ve got it.
Our Sunday refresh offers more local news and sports, as well as “Weekend Exclusive” content to help you navigate your lives. So enjoy your Sunday reading filled with stories that will inspire, educate, inform and entertain you. FOR THE LATEST LOCAL...
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Duval DOGE will turn its spotlight on JTA’s shuttles
The slow start in ridership for the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s autonomous shuttle system is sparking questions by the Duval DOGE Committee about what it will cost to build the entire 10-mile network and what happens if use of the shuttles...
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DeSantis touts $1 billion Progressive rebates
The largest auto insurance company in the state is going to return an average of $300 to each policyholder and more auto insurers are likely to follow suit, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said. On the heels of industry reports showing that Progressive...
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Trump says construction of ballroom ‘music to my ears’
The sound of jackhammering may be earsplitting to most, but not to President Donald Trump. He rhapsodized about his favorite background noise at a Senate Republican luncheon at the newly renovated White House Rose Garden on Oct. 21, which marked Day...
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JU President Cost plans to leave post next year
Jacksonville University President Tim Cost is leaving the school’s top job in 2026, creating uncertainty about its future as University of North Florida officials also mull choosing a new leader. Cost said he’ll become JU’s chancellor July 1, 2026,...
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MY SAFE FLORIDA HOME QUESTIONED
My Safe Florida Home and My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot may sound like free money to fix up your home, but the hurdles have unclaimed money lying around and raise larger questions about the effectiveness of the popular program. The avalanche of...
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LONDON LETDOWN
The Los Angeles Rams dominated the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. The Jaguars’ lone score came in the fourth quarter, on a 34-yard touchdown pass from Trevor Lawrence to Travis Hunter. Above: Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams (17) makes a...
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Have you ever had a Florida wildlife encounter?
Tim Walters Sports editor I was 4 years old in 1981 and my family hadn’t been in Florida for more than a few months. We lived on a canal in Merritt Island and seawalls weren’t really much of a thing yet. I walked to our back door and to my surprise,...
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‘No Kings’ organizers concerned but hopeful
Ahead of the nationwide “No Kings” protests against President Donald Trump’s administration, several civil rights and protest groups say they’re both eager to demonstrate widespread opposition to Trump’s agenda and concerned about potential...
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CITY’S ZESTIEST SHOP GETS ZESTIER
Jacksonville’s quirkiest, most fermentationobsessed destination is getting even bigger. The Pickle Factory, a specialty shop and community hub on St. Augustine Road, recently unveiled a 1,500-square-foot expansion. The brick-and-mortar destination...
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Publix project clears major hurdle with design approval
Jacksonville’s long-awaited downtown Publix took another step forward Thursday as the Downtown Development Review Board (DDRB) voted unanimously to approve final design plans for the grocery store and adjoining residential tower that will anchor the...
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How U.S. is bearing the brunt of Trump’s tariffs
U.S. companies and consumers are bearing the brunt of the country’s new import tariffs, early indications show, contradicting assertions by President Donald Trump and complicating the Federal Reserve’s fight against inflation. Trump famously predicted...
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