Story By: Kelila Ritchie

In the heart of Jacksonville, Eartha’s Farm and Market has made it their mission to be a resource to their community. Since its founding in 2019, the farm has become a community hotspot, offering more than just veganic farming– but a place where local farmers, neighbors and volunteers can connect.  

Eartha’s Farm and Market provides space for the community to practice urban and community gardening. Volunteers and members of the community can rent out spaces in the greenhouses on site to grow their own food. The farm is located in one of Jacksonville’s biggest food deserts, making the farm a huge resource to the community. The market regularly hosts workshops and events that educate the community about urban gardening, sustainable living, and healthy eating practices. 

Every Saturday from 10AM-2PM, Eartha’s Farm and Market hosts a Farmer’s Market that supports local vendors as well. During these farmer’s markets, EBT/SNAP benefits are doubled.The market features a wide variety of goods, including organic produce, seasonal fruits and vegetables, local honey and handcrafted items. Many of the products on display are sourced within miles of the farm, ensuring freshness and a reduced carbon footprint. You can also catch a yoga session on the farm during the Farmer’s Market before or after you shop! 

Open Monday-Saturday, Eartha’s Farm and Market invites everyone to experience life on the farm and to shop locally. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients or inspiration for a greener lifestyle, Eartha’s is a must-see destination in Jacksonville. 

Story By: Olivia Batchelor

Down the street from Ever Bank Stadium is a local gem, Manifest Distillery. This is a multi-visit destination for craft spirit enthusiasts and anyone eager to support local. From their meticulous ingredient sourcing to their innovative distillation techniques, every aspect of production is designed to create spirits that reflect the heart and soul of Jacksonville. 

Manifest makes everything from vodka, rum, gin, and whiskey. And at the heart of everything is the family aspect that you feel the minute you walk in to the distillery. “We are really a family.” Says Caroline Lamm, a production line worker. “There is just something special when you walk inside. You can feel the love and family aspect,” she also said.  

Located right near both the football stadium, arena, and baseball grounds, it’s the perfect place to stop in just before or after an event going on downtown. Manifest has a commitment to quality that extended to the cocktails and spirits you can enjoy in the bar area. They have created signature cocktails and seasonal cocktails that are definitely going to please anyone looking for something special.  

Whether you are a seasoned spirits lover or simply looking to explore the craft cocktail scene, Manifest Distillery offers a perfect blend of quality, innovation, and community spirit.

Story By: Dominic Dacunto

There’s no question about it, insurance premiums have skyrocketed for car and homeowners in the state of Florida. Obviously climate change and the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes is a factor, with the risks associated with owning a car and or a home in Florida increasing in tandem with climate change. However, in the background after Hurricane Ian in 2022, Florida insurance providers saw a spike in the amount of frivolous lawsuits brought against them. In an effort to combat this, the Florida House of Representatives passed House Bill 837, which made it considerably more difficult to fight insurance companies in court. Opponents of H.B. 837 though, say that it has made suing one’s insurance company too difficult and insurance providers are capitalizing on it by either denying claims outright or paying out incredibly low amounts. In response, opponents have drafted House Bill 1213 that would require state owned Citizens Insurance to provide windstorm coverage to all property owners it insures. Additionally, it would guarantee payouts to those covered by citizens in the event that one were to lose their home due to a hurricane. In the meantime, those that can’t afford the increase in premiums or have been dropped by their insurer have no option but to leave the state.