The Florida Star Newspaper

10/14/2025

With deep sadness, we mourn the passing of Grammy-winning neo-soul artist D'Angelo, who has died at the age of 51 following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. The news was confirmed on October 14, 2025, bringing an end to the life of the influential singer-songwriter, born Michael Eugene Archer. D'Angelo was a pivotal figure in the neo-soul movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s, known for his critically acclaimed albums Brown Sugar (1995) and Voodoo (2000). The soulful musician earned a dedicated following and collaborated with other icons like Erykah Badu and Questlove.

His loss comes just months after the death of his former partner and fellow musician, Angie Stone. Fans and fellow artists have taken to social media to pay tribute to the late star, remembering his artistry and immense talent.

10/10/2025

JWB Real Estate's Innovative HomeStep Program

Paving the Way for Renters to Become Homeowners

In a groundbreaking initiative in Northeast Florida, JWB Real Estate is helping long-time renters achieve the dream of homeownership through its HomeStep program. This program is uniquely designed to transform tenants into proud homeowners by providing financial incentives and essential support services.

Launched six months ago, the HomeStep program enables JWB renters to accumulate equity at a rate of $100 a month, amounting to a potential total of $3,600. This equity can be applied toward the purchase of a home, whether it is owned by JWB or another entity.

Beyond financial assistance, the program also offers vital resources, including free homebuying classes, credit repair tools, and personalized counseling sessions. Currently, over 2,300 residents of JWB are taking advantage of the HomeStep program, with 43 actively engaged in searching for their new homes.

The significance of JWB's efforts cannot be overstated. For many individuals who have never had the opportunity to own a home, this program represents a transformative chance to invest in their future and cultivate a sense of pride and stability.

Homeownership not only fosters personal growth but also contributes to stronger communities, as homeowners are more likely to invest in their neighborhoods and contribute to local development. JWB’s HomeStep program is not just about providing housing; it's about empowering individuals and families to realize their dreams, build equity, and create lasting legacies.

10/06/2025

Florida Senator Tracie Davis to Join Community Forum Hosted by Florida A&M University (FAMU) Medical Ma*****na Education and Research Initiative (MMERI)

Citizens are invited to a free forum on October 9, to learn about the latest developments in state and federal ma*****na laws, medical ma*****na access, and the impact of unlawful use

Who:
CONFIRMED PANELISTS AND EVENT PARTICIPANTS INCLUDE:
State Senator Tracie Davis
GP Mendie, Assistant Vice President for Research and Executive Director of FAMU’s MMERI

Other invitees include community leaders and subject matter experts on the topic of legal medical ma*****na and illicit recreational use

When:
Thursday, October 9, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m

Where:
Florida State College at Jacksonville – Downtown Campus

ADDRESS: 101 West State Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/legal-aspects-of-ma*****na-tickets-1739783592559?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

What:
Join a conversation with state and local experts and community leaders as they explore ma*****na legalization, medical ma*****na laws, unlawful recreational ma*****na use, and the potential impacts these issues have on our communities.

ABOUT THE FAMU MEDICAL MA*****NA EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH INITIATIVE

The Medical Ma*****na Education and Research Initiative at Florida A&M University is a statewide initiative that educates and informs Floridians about medical ma*****na and the potential consequences to health and well-being from illicit use. MMERI ensures widespread dissemination of educational information about cannabis across the state through an interactive website, community outreach activities, and engaging conversations on cannabis. Visit MMERI.FAMU.edu for more information.

ABOUT FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE AT JACKSONVILLE

Known as “the community’s college,” Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) exists to provide equitable, high-quality, success-driven learning experiences for our diverse community of students. Serving more than 45,000 students and awarding nearly 4,000 degrees and certificates on an annual basis, the College plays a significant role in supplying the region’s employers with a highly skilled, educated workforce.

What YOU Need to Know

10/05/2025

#3 Miami Hurricanes beat the #18 Florida State Seminoles in convincing fashion 28-22

09/30/2025

Hello Everyone,

As we get ready for next month for Tamir's 11th anniversary without him we will honor him with a community responses production.

Directed by:Terrence Spivey
Featured: Philly Yvonne Stickney
Written by : Playwrights Local
Presented by: Tamir Rice Foundation

Saturday November 8th
Tickets available soon!
You don't want to miss it.

09/26/2025

Assata Shakur, Black Liberation Army Member and Political Activist, Dies at 78

Convicted in the 1973 killing of a New Jersey state trooper, she escaped prison and spent decades in exile. To U.S. officials she was a wanted terrorist; to supporters, a symbol of resistance.

09/12/2025

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aMTml9GOMlg

🏡 NACA’s Achieve the Dream event is bringing affordable homeownership to Jacksonville, FL September 19th through the 21st!Join us at Edward Waters Universit...

09/06/2025

Please share this opportunity with students in grades 9-12!

09/02/2025

AP Rankings are out and your NOLES are #14 after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide
visuals for 📸

08/31/2025

DOWN GOES BAMA!!!! The unranked Noles take down Alabama in convincing fashion in a 31-17 Win on the opening week of college football.

📸 April Visuals for The Florida Star Newspaper

08/29/2025

Celebrating excellence in Jacksonville media and community leadership at last night's Ken Knight Awards at WJCT! This inspiring evening honored outstanding professionals who are making a real difference in our community through their dedication to storytelling, advocacy, and public service. Congratulations to all the honorees for their incredible contributions to Jacksonville's media landscape and their commitment to uplifting our community. Thank you to NABJ Jacksonville Chapter and Umunna Legal Group for organizing this meaningful celebration of Black excellence in media.
Chris Porter Melanie Lawson TV Rahman Johnson Rahman Johnson - Member Jacksonville City Council District 14 .0 Northeast Florida NABJ WJCT

📸 April Visuals for The Florida Star Newspaper

08/28/2025