SUMMARY: Florida wildlife officials are poised to vote on allowing black bear hunting for the first time in a decade, with a regulated season proposed to start December 2025. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission aims to manage the growing bear population, estimated at 3,800, through controlled hunts in designated zones with permit limits. The 23-day season would permit hunting with dogs and near feeding stations. The proposal has sparked fierce debate: supporters cite rising human-bear conflicts, while opponents argue habitat loss and unsecured trash cause issues, condemning the hunt as unnecessary and cruel. A lawsuit to block the hunt is expected.

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SUMMARY: Over 115 years ago, Jacksonville’s San Marco neighborhood hosted Dixieland Park, once dubbed “Florida’s Playground.” Opening in 1907 on 21 acres, it featured a skating rink, swimming pool, restaurants, a theater, and attractions like the Dixie Dewdrop slide and a merry-go-round. Visitors arrived by ferry across the St. Johns River, dressed in early 20th-century fashion. Despite its initial popularity and a baseball park hosting spring training, the park declined after hailstorms and fires, closing by 1909. The only remnant today is Treaty Oak. In the 1960s, Jacksonville missed hosting Disney World after local tycoon Ed Ball rejected Walt Disney’s proposal.

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The post ‘Florida’s Playground,’ an amusement park, once stood in San Marco over 100 years ago. Now, only one piece of it remains appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: South Florida will experience partly cloudy and warm conditions with isolated showers today. Heat index values could reach 102-105°F, especially in Broward, Miami-Dade, and the Keys, but remain below heat advisory levels. Rain chances are low at 10-20%, mainly over the Everglades and Keys with some afternoon sea breeze showers possible. Overnight, scattered storms may develop, with a 30-40% chance of rain tomorrow. No alerts are currently issued for Atlantic waters or the Keys. Tropical Storm Erin remains the main focus, with models projecting a westward path influenced by high pressure, though forecasts diverge next week. Residents should stay informed and prepared.

NEXT Weather meteorologist Shane Hinton says Tuesday will be a mix of sun and clouds. A few stray showers are possible.

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