As the COVID-19 pandemic spikes in many parts of the country, reports in recent days show consumers are hoarding at local stores, especially items like toilet paper. This trend is reminiscent of the panic buying we experienced at the start of the pandemic.
Many grocers report slight slowdowns in record spring sales amidst the pandemic. Sales estimates from the federal government confirm the public health crisis has had an enduring impact on the public’s spending habits. However, the calculations show consumers continue to spend heavily at supermarkets and limit spending at other retailers. As a result, retail sales are expected to dip during the holiday season.
Tim Gibbons, Editor of the Jacksonville Business Journal, joined us with more.
Related: Local, State, And National Coronavirus Coverage
Northeast Florida Foster Care
A USA Today probe uncovered systemic problems with the Florida foster care system’s ability to protect vulnerable children. Reporters learned that Florida’s foster care system took thousands of kids from families but failed to keep them safe.
The three leading agencies that observe foster care and adoption in Northeast Florida are Family Support Services of North Florida, Daniel Kids, and Jewish Family and Community Services. These organizations’ CEOs admit the Florida foster care system faces problems, but they say Northeast Florida’s issues are less severe as they work together to support children in foster care.
Bob Miller, Family Support Services of North Florida, Lesley Wells, Daniel Kids, and Colleen Rodrigeuz, Jewish Family and Community Services spoke with us about their organizations’ role in keeping children safe.
THE PLAYERS Lobby
THE PLAYERS Championship is sponsoring a new lobby at Nemours Children’s Specialty Care in Jacksonville. They have another special announcement scheduled Friday, which is World Children’s Day.
We heard from Jared Rice, Executive Director of THE PLAYERS Championship, and Dr. Gary Josephson, Chief Medical Officer at Nemours.
Cheers To 10 Years!
Intuition Ale Works celebrates its tenth anniversary this weekend. To celebrate, the brewing company will host an informal backyard barbecue-themed party starting at noon.
Owner Ben Davis told us more.
Katherine Hobbs can be reached at newsteam@wjct.org or on Twitter at @KatherineGHobbs.
