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M.A.D. D.A.D.S. Jacksonville Chapter to Close After 23 Years, New Leadership Emerges The Jacksonville chapter of M.A.D. D.A.D.S., a well-known community organization, announced its closure after 23 years of service. The decision was made by the Board of Directors to allow newer groups and fresh leadership to address evolving community needs. Despite the closure, the organization remains committed to serving the families theyve supported. The official dissolution is set for December 31st.

The Boy Is Mine Tour featuring Brandy and Monica brought a wave of classic R&B to Jacksonville, showcasing the genres enduring appeal. Keyshia Cole and Kelly Rowland delivered emotional and energetic performances, setting the stage for the main acts. Brandy and Monica performed many of their biggest hits, including their iconic duet, The Boy Is Mine. The concert also included a touching tribute to Whitney Houston, highlighting her immense impact on R&B.

Rabies Alert in Bradford County: Florida Department of Health issues warning following confirmed case in cat. Residents and visitors urged to take precautions, including keeping pets vaccinated and avoiding contact with wild or stray animals. Seek immediate medical or veterinary attention if bitten or scratched.

Putnam County Schools are embarking on a major multi-year plan to consolidate several elementary schools, open new campuses, and shift hundreds of students in Palatka. This ambitious undertaking aims to replace older buildings, prepare for future population growth, and create a more modern educational system for the community. The changes will unfold over two school years, with several new schools already under construction. Ultimately, all elementary students in Palatka will attend either Palatka Primary School or Palatka Intermediate School, depending on their grade level.

In Jacksonville, Florida, a domestic violence call escalated into a four-hour standoff, ending in an officer-involved shooting. Corey Sweeney, 31, threatened his mother with a knife, leading to his barricade in a Dinsmore neighborhood home. Despite neighbors evacuation and SWAT team intervention, Sweeney emerged with a hammer and later an unknown object, prompting officers to fire, striking him in the leg. The incident marks the sixteenth officer-involved shooting in Jacksonville this year, leaving residents shaken.

80+ dogs rescued from dogfighting rings in Florida, with evidence of prolonged suffering and abuse. Suspect arrested on drug and firearm charges, more charges expected. Animals receiving treatment, public urged to report suspicious activity.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have signed veteran running back DeeJay Dallas to bolster their roster, particularly in the kick return game, following rookie Bhayshul Tutens finger injury. Dallas brings valuable experience and skill in kick returns, with eighty-seven career returns and a touchdown last season. He joins a strong running back corps, including rookie LeQuint Allen, allowing him to focus on kick returns without the pressure of being the primary backup. The Jaguars aim to maintain their playoff push despite Tutens temporary absence.

Brooks Rehabilitation is expanding its Jacksonville area locations to meet growing demand for specialized care. The $47 million Bartram Campus expansion adds 48 beds for complex conditions, introduces a tech-driven therapy area, and a smart home for transitioning patients. The Orange Park outpatient clinic grows by 5.4 million, including a new pediatric feeding clinic. All projects start in 2026, aiming for completion in 2027-2028.

Jans Heartbreaking Journey: A Familys Struggle at the ICE Processing Center - Jan, a Dallas resident, visits her cousin Yaa’kub detained in Folkston, Georgia, for over two months. She faces financial burdens and long wait times, witnessing the harsh conditions and limited access to basic necessities. The Folkston facility is one of the largest detention centers, with over 65,000 detainees nationwide, highlighting the widespread impact of the immigration system on families.