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LIST: Local Black-owned businesses in Northeast Florida & Southeast Georgia
Read full article: LIST: Local Black-owned businesses in Northeast Florida & Southeast GeorgiaAugust is Black Business Month and News4JAX is highlighting the contributions of Black Americans to the workforce across various industries. So we've compiled a list to help you find them in your neighborhood.
Economist explains how Fed hopes to get interest rate recipe ‘just right’
Read full article: Economist explains how Fed hopes to get interest rate recipe ‘just right’Justin Begley, an economist with Moody’s Analytics, joined us on The Morning Show to share his insights into the Fed's decision not to change interest rates, despite pressure from the president.
No Room on Campus: The off-campus housing crisis facing college students
Read full article: No Room on Campus: The off-campus housing crisis facing college studentsAs part of News4JAX’s Addressing Affordability series, we’re taking a closer look at how rising housing costs are reshaping the college experience.
Jacksonville store shows how to take advantage of deals as Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday starts Aug. 1
Read full article: Jacksonville store shows how to take advantage of deals as Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday starts Aug. 1Each week in August, Goodwill is offering certain items at 40% off. Goodwill is also offering 50% off on all books and media to customers who are a part of the store’s free loyalty program between Aug. 8-10.
Why you should wash new clothing before you wear it
Read full article: Why you should wash new clothing before you wear itBefore you slip on that new shirt or cozy sweater or dress your baby in that fresh off the rack purchase, you should wash it first. Consumer Reports explains why that matters and how to do it without damaging your new find.
How to lower your AC costs during record-high summer heat
Read full article: How to lower your AC costs during record-high summer heatSummer cooling costs can make up as much as 60% of energy bills, according to Florida Power & Light. And with temperatures pushing 100 degrees in Northeast Florida, air conditioning systems are likely working around the clock.
Back-to-School: Money-saving secrets for school supplies and more
Read full article: Back-to-School: Money-saving secrets for school supplies and moreNews4JAX Consumer Investigator Tiffany Salameh hit the aisles -- and the internet -- comparing prices at Walmart, Amazon and Target to find out which store really gives you the best deal this year on back-to-school supplies.
Looking for a dependable laptop? Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider advice
Read full article: Looking for a dependable laptop? Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider adviceAs the countdown to the new school year begins, one back-to-school essential is more important than ever — a dependable laptop. With fluctuating tech prices and uncertainty over tariffs, Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider advice on scoring the best laptop for any budget.
Click to cancel remains on hold for now. Here’s how to protect yourself from sneaky subscriptions in the meantime
Read full article: Click to cancel remains on hold for now. Here’s how to protect yourself from sneaky subscriptions in the meantimeAn FTC rule to make it easier to cancel subscriptions is scrapped - for now. We look at how consumers can protect their money in the meantime.
Get heart-shaped falafel, handmade croissants and ice cream with ‘a little Jesus’ at these must-eat spots in Springfield
Read full article: Get heart-shaped falafel, handmade croissants and ice cream with ‘a little Jesus’ at these must-eat spots in SpringfieldIn an effort to learn about the best food offered in the Springfield area, we called around and were provided three spots, though if we had time, we would have visited every restaurant.
How do you save money during high heat weather? JEA has some tips
Read full article: How do you save money during high heat weather? JEA has some tipsThe National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a Heat Advisory for the Jacksonville region on Friday, and the extreme weather is expected to continue this weekend, with heat index values expected to reach 113 degrees.
Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to finances
Read full article: Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to financesAbout 38% of the U.S. workforce engages in freelance work. While it can be convenient and flexible, there are financial factors to consider before going full-time freelance.
Kitchen appliances you won’t regret
Read full article: Kitchen appliances you won’t regretIf you’re in the market for appliances, say a new dishwasher, refrigerator, or range—or maybe all three—Consumer Reports can help you with smart shopping strategies to help you find the right, reliable one at the best price for your budget.
Economics expert explains President Trump’s flip-flop on Fed Chair Powell
Read full article: Economics expert explains President Trump’s flip-flop on Fed Chair PowellBrad Hershbein, a senior economist for the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, said the president and Powell disagree on economic policy, but firing Powell could cause a major ripple in global markets.
Want to advance in your career? Ask your boss these tough questions
Read full article: Want to advance in your career? Ask your boss these tough questionsOver 55% of workers say they need more opportunities to develop their skills and improve their work. So, who do you ask for advice on how to move up the ladder? The obvious answer: your boss.
There are 1,400 short-term rentals in Jacksonville Beach. Locals say that’s driving up home prices and changing the city
Read full article: There are 1,400 short-term rentals in Jacksonville Beach. Locals say that’s driving up home prices and changing the cityAs part of News4JAX’s Addressing A4dability series, we’re taking a closer look at how short-term rentals, like Airbnb and Vrbo, are reshaping housing markets, neighborhoods, and the ability for locals to afford a place to live.
Skills that pay: Here’s what hiring managers are really looking for
Read full article: Skills that pay: Here’s what hiring managers are really looking forWith nearly 6 million Americans looking for work, standing out to potential employers is crucial. Recent data suggests the average job seeker spends around three to six months trying to secure employment.
Changes your family needs to know before applying for student loans
Read full article: Changes your family needs to know before applying for student loansBig changes are coming to how students and parents will borrow money to help pay for college. Under President Donald Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill," borrowing for student loans will have limits, and the number of repayment options that you can choose will be reduced.
Power Interviewing: Strategies for neurodivergent job success
Read full article: Power Interviewing: Strategies for neurodivergent job successYou can be the most qualified candidate on paper, yet the interview process itself can be a significant hurdle. For some, particularly those who are neurodivergent, navigating traditional interview expectations can present unique challenges.
72% of parents surveyed say they’re cutting expenses, picking up extra shifts to cover school supply costs
Read full article: 72% of parents surveyed say they’re cutting expenses, picking up extra shifts to cover school supply costsMost families expected to spend more on school supplies this year, and many are concerned about the impact of tariffs. We've got a shopping strategy to help you save money as your kids go back to school.
75% of kids who rely on this local nonprofit face homelessness or housing instability. Their state funding was just cut
Read full article: 75% of kids who rely on this local nonprofit face homelessness or housing instability. Their state funding was just cutThe Giving Closet Project has quietly become a safety net for thousands of Jacksonville students facing homelessness and housing insecurity. But after losing $150,000 in state funding through Gov. Ron DeSantis’ budget vetoes, the organization is now leaning heavily on the community to survive.
This Week in Jacksonville - Business Edition: Navigating the Florida real state market in transition
Read full article: This Week in Jacksonville - Business Edition: Navigating the Florida real state market in transition“This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition” host Kent Justice recently spoke with Tim Weisheyer, president of Florida Realtors, the largest realtor association in the United States. He offered a nuanced perspective on what homebuyers and sellers can expect.
How to protect packages from thieves
Read full article: How to protect packages from thievesOnline shoppers are scoring hot summer deals right now with retailers like Amazon offering big discounts. But all those purchases mean packages piling up outside your door and it’s an opportunity for thieves to steal your stuff.
A local mom thought the car seat she picked out for her daughter was cute. She later found out it was an unsafe knockoff
Read full article: A local mom thought the car seat she picked out for her daughter was cute. She later found out it was an unsafe knockoffA Jacksonville mom learned a lesson the hard way when she unknowingly buckled her newborn into a fake car seat, thinking it was safe.
Federal funding freeze threatens after-school programs in Northeast Florida
Read full article: Federal funding freeze threatens after-school programs in Northeast FloridaThousands of families in Northeast Florida face cuts to after-school and summer programs due to a federal funding freeze affecting education and food assistance grants.
Yes, you can buy a home with $0 down. A Jacksonville mortgage broker is working to spread the word on social media
Read full article: Yes, you can buy a home with $0 down. A Jacksonville mortgage broker is working to spread the word on social mediaAs part of our “Addressing A4dability” series, we spoke with longtime loan officer Jason Kindler, who says zero-down mortgages are not only possible, they’re happening every day.
More than half of the Jacksonville City Council members are millionaires. Here’s how much each is worth
Read full article: More than half of the Jacksonville City Council members are millionaires. Here’s how much each is worthRecently filed financial disclosure forms by members of Jacksonville’s City Council have revealed that the majority of them have a net worth exceeding $1 million. The forms, which are required to be filed by July 1 under Florida’s ethics law, show that at least 10 millionaires, all of whom are Republicans, make up the River City’s council.
Stock up any time: Florida ends sales tax on hurricane prep supplies
Read full article: Stock up any time: Florida ends sales tax on hurricane prep suppliesFloridians can now save on disaster supplies year-round. A new law removes sales tax on essential items like batteries, generators, and tarps — no more waiting for seasonal tax holidays.
‘This is a compromise’: Green Cove Springs approves 12% electric rate hike
Read full article: ‘This is a compromise’: Green Cove Springs approves 12% electric rate hikeMore than a month after Green Cove Springs council members shot down a 20% increase in electric rates, they unanimously approved a 12% increase in electric rates Tuesday night
From campus to career: Important advice as graduates look to land their first job
Read full article: From campus to career: Important advice as graduates look to land their first jobThe diplomas are signed, sealed, and delivered, and the tassel has been tossed, but for the class of 2025, the real work now begins: landing that first job.
What’s next as Fernandina Beach prepares to demolish local mainstay Brett’s Waterway Café
Read full article: What’s next as Fernandina Beach prepares to demolish local mainstay Brett’s Waterway CaféBrett’s Waterway Café has long been a mainstay in the community, known for its scenic views and special events. But it is set to be demolished next year due to safety concerns.
BMW X3 believed to have sparked devastating fire removed from JAX hourly garage
Read full article: BMW X3 believed to have sparked devastating fire removed from JAX hourly garageMore than a month after a devastating fire in the hourly parking garage at Jacksonville International Airport, the BMW believed to have sparked that fire has been removed from the garage.
Making money but still stressed: Are you a HENRY?
Read full article: Making money but still stressed: Are you a HENRY?Ever wonder what income level actually makes people feel like they've "made it"? New research from Empower found the average American thinks you need to be pulling in around $270,000 a year to feel truly successful.
How to get some welcome relief from hidden ‘junk’ fees
Read full article: How to get some welcome relief from hidden ‘junk’ feesA new federal rule targets some of the worst offenders, but many hidden charges remain legal. Consumer Reports breaks down what this means for your wallet and how to avoid them.
US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could mean rising costs at your local gas pump
Read full article: US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could mean rising costs at your local gas pumpGlobal markets appear to have taken the U.S. strike against nuclear targets in Iran in stride as investors awaited moves by Iran.
At least $38 million, 18 months to repair hourly garage at Jacksonville airport after massive fire
Read full article: At least $38 million, 18 months to repair hourly garage at Jacksonville airport after massive fireJust over a month after a devastating fire in the hourly parking garage at Jacksonville International Airport, leaders with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority estimated Wednesday that it will cost at least $38 million to repair the damage.
The heat is on! How to save money while planning for a cooler future
Read full article: The heat is on! How to save money while planning for a cooler futureRising temperatures are not just uncomfortable; for many families, they are hitting their health and their wallets hard. That’s why it’s important for us all to look at what we can do, and what our communities can do to tackle these problems head-on.
Florida lawmakers approve state budget after weeks of gridlock and a missed deadline
Read full article: Florida lawmakers approve state budget after weeks of gridlock and a missed deadlineAfter weeks of gridlock and a missed deadline, Florida lawmakers finally voted on this year’s state budget on Monday, just two weeks before the fiscal year begins on July 1.
Nearly half of Floridians are struggling to make ends meet, new report finds
Read full article: Nearly half of Floridians are struggling to make ends meet, new report findsThe State of ALICE in Florida: 2025 Update on Financial Hardship report, which analyzed the latest available data from 2023, found that an estimated 47% of households in Florida were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023. The ALICE Threshold represents the minimum income level necessary for survival for a household.
Public can share input Thursday as liquor store requests distance waiver for being near Westside elementary school
Read full article: Public can share input Thursday as liquor store requests distance waiver for being near Westside elementary schoolShores Liquor is requesting a waiver to build within 1,500 feet of an elementary school because of a tasting room that would be included inside the store, which means there would be alcohol consumption on site.
United Way brings $5M housing development loan fund to low-income neighborhoods to make home ownership accessible
Read full article: United Way brings $5M housing development loan fund to low-income neighborhoods to make home ownership accessibleThe United Way of Northeast Florida will hold a news conference on Wednesday afternoon to announce a partnership with LISC Jacksonville, aiming to bring more housing to low-income neighborhoods.
Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to finances
Read full article: Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to financesAbout 38 percent of the U.S. workforce engages in freelance work. While it can be convenient and flexible, there are financial factors to consider before going full-time freelance.
Father’s Day spending to reach $24 billion -- but we still spend more money on mom
Read full article: Father’s Day spending to reach $24 billion -- but we still spend more money on momFather’s Day is around the corner, and spending is expected to reach a record $24 billion. The National Retail Federation estimates that people will spend $199.38 per person this year.
Jacksonville among top cities with most home sale cancellations, according to report; 5 Florida cities in Top 10
Read full article: Jacksonville among top cities with most home sale cancellations, according to report; 5 Florida cities in Top 10A lot of people looking to buy a house are getting cold feet or opting for a better opportunity after a contract becomes pending.
Lawmakers appear to back off plan to cut funds for advanced placement programs in Florida public schools
Read full article: Lawmakers appear to back off plan to cut funds for advanced placement programs in Florida public schoolsMonths after lawmakers proposed slashing bonuses for acceleration programs in half, full funding to pay for advanced placement programs in Florida public schools is expected to stay in place in the final version of the budget.
Florida lawmakers begin ironing out budget differences as July 1 deadline looms
Read full article: Florida lawmakers begin ironing out budget differences as July 1 deadline loomsNeeding to finish a budget for the July 1 start of the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the House and Senate on Tuesday began slowly rolling out proposals to resolve spending and policy differences.
Consumer Reports releases its top-tested insect repellents of 2025
Read full article: Consumer Reports releases its top-tested insect repellents of 2025To find the best bug sprays, Consumer Reports put repellents to the ultimate test–having real people stick their arms into cages full of hungry mosquitoes.
Level up: The power of professional coaching
Read full article: Level up: The power of professional coachingFeeling stuck in your job? You’re not alone. A recent report from Glassdoor reveals 65 percent of workers feel trapped in their current role. If you’re looking to break free from the monotony or level up your career, a career coach might help.
These tips will save you money & extend the life of your air conditioning unit
Read full article: These tips will save you money & extend the life of your air conditioning unitTemperatures are heating up, and this summer, the cost of using air conditioning is expected to reach its highest level in over a decade.
Consumer Reports breaks down the best battery tool systems
Read full article: Consumer Reports breaks down the best battery tool systemsConsumer Reports testers say today’s battery-powered tools don’t just go head-to-head with gas—they sometimes outperform them. From trimmers to chainsaws, we’ll show you which brands cut through the competition.
Drones and AI help farmers save money while protecting the environment
Read full article: Drones and AI help farmers save money while protecting the environmentA new University of Florida study shows how drones can do more than just take aerial pictures and videos—they can help farmers grow better hemp by seeing the health of their crops with some artificial intelligence assistance.
‘It’s like free money’: Jacksonville program helps renters become homeowners
Read full article: ‘It’s like free money’: Jacksonville program helps renters become homeownersJWB Real Estate’s HomeStep program is turning tenants into proud homeowners by offering financial incentives and support services to help them make the leap.
Cracking the Code: How to beat applicant tracking system resume screening bots
Read full article: Cracking the Code: How to beat applicant tracking system resume screening botsAccording to recent studies, 99% of all Fortune 500 companies use ATS platforms on a regular basis, and they filter out three out of four applicants before a recruiter even sees them.
Helping car owners navigate insurance issues connected to the JAX garage fire
Read full article: Helping car owners navigate insurance issues connected to the JAX garage fireInsurance expert Matt Carlucci Jr. joined News4Jax anchor Bruce Hamilton on The Morning Show to help you navigate those potential headaches and find solutions.
Walmart warns of higher grocery prices as new tariffs take effect
Read full article: Walmart warns of higher grocery prices as new tariffs take effectWalmart is warning that new tariffs on imported goods may lead to higher grocery prices, with essentials like produce, coffee, and seafood at risk. Economists say shoppers could see increases in the coming weeks as trade policies impact the cost of everyday items.
FTC investigation shuts down company accused of student loan scams
Read full article: FTC investigation shuts down company accused of student loan scamsThe agency says Panda Benefit Services tricked borrowers into paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal fees for fake student loan forgiveness.
Consumer Reports investigation with 2 news outlets finds errors in Kroger sales tags
Read full article: Consumer Reports investigation with 2 news outlets finds errors in Kroger sales tagsAn in-depth investigation by Consumer Reports and two news organizations found that customers were often charged higher prices at checkout than what was listed on store shelves.
As student loan collection resumes following four-year pause, local borrowers say system is broken
Read full article: As student loan collection resumes following four-year pause, local borrowers say system is brokenThe federal government is resuming collections on defaulted student loans after a more than four-year pause that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects of the decision are being felt locally.
Consumer Reports releases its report on the best sunscreens of 2025
Read full article: Consumer Reports releases its report on the best sunscreens of 2025Consumer Reports just released its exclusive annual sunscreen ratings, putting more than 100 products to the test, and revealing surprising gaps in how they protect you from the sun’s cancer-causing rays.
Distribution center in Baldwin to shut down, lay off nearly 500 workers
Read full article: Distribution center in Baldwin to shut down, lay off nearly 500 workersC&S Wholesale Services, a grocery supplier, sent the state a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification last week, alerting them of their plan.
Sun, sand and scams: How to spot the red flags of fake vacation schemes
Read full article: Sun, sand and scams: How to spot the red flags of fake vacation schemesMore than a third of Americans are planning to take a vacation. As the prices of hotels and flights surge during this time, scammers are hoping to take advantage of travelers’ desperation for a cheap deal.
More Americans are using ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ loans to pay for groceries, survey finds
Read full article: More Americans are using ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ loans to pay for groceries, survey findsAs grocery prices continue to squeeze household budgets, a growing number of Americans are turning to “buy now, pay later” loans to cover the cost of food, raising fresh concerns about consumer debt and financial vulnerability, according to a new survey.
Popping your brain back into focus: How to break the screen to screen cycle
Read full article: Popping your brain back into focus: How to break the screen to screen cycleThe average American spends 7 hours and 4 minutes looking at a screen each day, but do you often go from screen to screen, scrolling through one and immediately switching to another?
Take note: Keeping track of wins at work
Read full article: Take note: Keeping track of wins at workA win at work is a sign of success. It may earn praise from coworkers and managers. But will they remember it weeks, months, or even a year from now? Experts say keeping track of these moments as they happen could pay off down the road.
Consumer Reports tests vacuums to simplify spring cleaning and tackle embedded dirt
Read full article: Consumer Reports tests vacuums to simplify spring cleaning and tackle embedded dirtAfter a long winter of mud and grime, your carpets and floors might look worse, and that’s where Consumer Reports comes in. Its experts lab test dozens of vacuums to help you find the perfect one to make spring cleaning a breeze.
Cleaning fan or foe? Consumer Reports shares favorite spring cleaning products
Read full article: Cleaning fan or foe? Consumer Reports shares favorite spring cleaning productsOver the last year, Consumer Reports’ experts put dozens of cleaning products to the test in real-life situations, looking to find effective and versatile products that are also gentle on surfaces and that don’t contain irritating or harsh ingredients!
The Home Depot brings more jobs to St. Johns County, but expected to build on traffic woes
Read full article: The Home Depot brings more jobs to St. Johns County, but expected to build on traffic woesThe Home Depot opened a new location Thursday morning at the World Commerce Center in St. Augustine, just off International Golf Parkway.
Consumer Reports breaks down the best and worst phone plan providers
Read full article: Consumer Reports breaks down the best and worst phone plan providersThinking of making the leap to another cellphone carrier? To help you out, Consumer Reports combed through survey data to come up with a list of the best (and worst) phone plan providers.
Jacksonville woman charged with organized fraud, accused of stealing $142K from local masonry business
Read full article: Jacksonville woman charged with organized fraud, accused of stealing $142K from local masonry businessA 35-year-old Jacksonville woman is facing charges of organized fraud and identity theft after investigators said she embezzled more than $142,000 from a local business.