Governor Rick Scott announced that the Jacksonville area added 21,600 new private-sector jobs in the past year, creating the third-highest number of jobs among all Florida metro areas. Jacksonville’s unemployment rate was a low 3.7 percent in June, down 0.5 percentage point from one year ago. Statewide, Florida businesses created 16,900 new jobs in June bringing the total number of new private-sector jobs created in Florida to 1,554,800 since December 2010.

Citizens looking for a new furry companion are encouraged to stop by Animal Care and Protective Services’ (ACPS) adoption event, sponsored by PetSmart Charities, this weekend at PetSmart Regency (356 Monument Rd. - 32225).

The final 35 miles of the St. Johns River runs through Jacksonville, the largest city by area in the United States, with a population of over one million. Much of the economic base of Jacksonville depends on the river: Northeast Florida’s strong military presence operates on the river and 18,000,000 tons of goods are shipped in an out of Jacksonville annually. 

Jacksonville's most historic public space recently turned 152.

For U.S. Tourism Destinations on the Rise!
Jacksonville is one of the greatest destinations in the U.S. for travelers, according to a new ranking issued this week by tourism planning website TripAdvisor. The travel website praised Jacksonville for its diversity of offerings for visitors. “The sprawling northeastern Florida city has nature and wildlife preserves, historic residential neighborhoods and lots of golf courses,” one news release said.

The Jacksonville Public Library is a large library system, consisting of a 300,000 square foot main library and twenty regional, community and neighborhood branch libraries. We also serve the needs of the community with Talking Books Library for disabled customers and an active adult literacy program.

“A week ago, as I sat on the south bank of the St. Johns, my family and I enjoyed the fireworks and celebrations with our downtown as a backdrop. As the fun of the evening faded and we returned home, I spent some time reflecting about our city and our nation. My grandfathers and my father came to mind as I thought of the many men, women and families who have sacrificed by serving in our military to defend our way of life.
 

It’s not only summertime, it’s summertime in Florida which could mean dangerously hot temperatures for everyone, including pets.

Independence Day is a holiday characterized by warm weather, barbecues and fireworks. For many people, it is a time to celebrate with family and friends — including the furry ones.