James Celkis, Realtor, exp - NE Florida

09/11/2026

07/31/2026

Welcome to another week of what I call "Florida, man, Friday"!*

According to this WalletHub study, Jacksonville, FL ranks #18 on a list of the Best Run Cities for 2026. In the memorable words of Fred Durst: "Jacksonville's on the map / look us up..."

"WalletHub analyzed 148 of the largest U.S. cities to identify those with the most efficient operations. The study developed a “Quality of Services” score based on 36 metrics across six key service areas, and then compared those results with each city’s per-capita budget."

Source: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-run-cities/22869

*"Florida, man, Friday!" is a feature wherein the word "man" is, as defined by Merriam-Webster, "used interjectionally to express intensity of feeling," and yes, a play on the "Florida man" colloquialism, as I share both fun and fundamental facts about living in Florida, with a primary focus on the First Coast in the Northeast part of the Sunshine State.

06/26/2026

Welcome to another week of what I call "Florida, man, Friday"!*

"Home to impressive Gilded Age architecture and a burgeoning dining scene, America’s oldest city continues to draw visitors who appreciate the past alongside the present. Step back into the 1600s at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, then pivot to the city’s growing craft brewery and distillery scene. A short drive across the Bridge of Lions leads to St. Augustine Beach, where long stretches of public shoreline, nature trails, and sandy-feet-friendly businesses line State A1A."

Fernandina Beach, just 90 minutes up the Atlantic Coast, ranked #20.

Source: https://www.southernliving.com/best-small-towns-2026-11896743

*"Florida, man, Friday!" is a feature wherein the word "man" is, as defined by Merriam-Webster, "used interjectionally to express intensity of feeling," and yes, a play on the "Florida man" colloquialism, as I share both fun and fundamental facts about living in Florida, with a primary focus on the First Coast in the Northeast part of the Sunshine State.

06/19/2026

Welcome to another week of what I call "Florida, man, Friday"!*

"I, Ron DeSantis, Governor of the State of Florida, do hereby proclaim the month of June 2026 as Faith and Family Month in Florida and encourage all residents, churches, organizations, and businesses to honor and celebrate these foundational pillars, express appreciation to fathers and father figures, support family unity, and participate in activities that strengthen families and enrich our communities."

Source: https://x.com/StasiKamoutsas/status/2064329977877709262

*"Florida, man, Friday!" is a feature wherein the word "man" is, as defined by Merriam-Webster, "used interjectionally to express intensity of feeling," and yes, a play on the "Florida man" colloquialism, as I share both fun and fundamental facts about living in Florida, with a primary focus on the First Coast in the Northeast part of the Sunshine State.

05/16/2026

As the Blue Chip Elite Spring season (and school year) comes to a close, it has been a joy to watch my son and his team play, as well as to see my logo on the newly styled jerseys of all the players at every grade level. That, and I'm thankful to have this basketball academy in our community!

04/05/2026

04/03/2026

02/27/2026

Welcome to another week of what I call "Florida, man, Friday"!*

"Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue of author, orator, abolitionist, and American Statesman Frederick Douglass in St. Augustine’s historic Plaza de la Constitución as part of the state’s ongoing commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary. The statue is located near the site where Douglass delivered a speech during his visit to St. Augustine in 1889, permanently linking his legacy to the civic and historical heart of America’s oldest continuously inhabited European settlement."

Douglass visited Florida’s First Coast in 1889 as part of a national tour, drawing massive crowds in Jacksonville before traveling to St. Augustine, where he delivered an address at the Genovar Opera House, once located near today’s Plaza de la Constitución.

The Plaza de la Constitución, in continuous use since the 1500s, sits at the center of St. Augustine’s historic district and is surrounded by iconic landmarks including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, Trinity Episcopal Church, the Government House, and Flagler College. The statue’s placement establishes a permanent tribute to Douglass in one of Florida’s most historically significant public spaces."

Source: https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2026/governor-ron-desantis-unveils-statue-frederick-douglass-st-augustine

*"Florida, man, Friday!" is a feature wherein the word "man" is, as defined by Merriam-Webster, "used interjectionally to express intensity of feeling," and yes, a play on the "Florida man" colloquialism, as I share both fun and fundamental facts about living in Florida, with a primary focus on the First Coast in the Northeast part of the Sunshine State.

02/16/2026

02/13/2026

Welcome to another week of what I call "Florida, man, Friday"!*

"In honor of our nation's first President and Founding Father, George Washington, the State of Florida will be declaring an official state holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026. State offices will be closed, and Floridians are encouraged to get out and celebrate our state's history and American heritage. All state managed lands will offer free admission for Floridians from February 13-16. First in War, First in Peace, and First in the Hearts of His Countrymen—George Washington left an indelible mark on the shape and destiny of our beloved country."

“As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary, Florida rejects the concerted efforts to malign our nation’s history, distort the principles of the founding, and demonize our founders,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We are planning a series of events, exhibits, and opportunities statewide for Floridians to celebrate the ‘Spirit of ’76.’ Florida is proud to lead with celebrations that promote civic virtue, historical education, and patriotic pride.”

"All admissions fees will be waived for Floridians at all state parks, wildlife management areas, water management lands, and Department of State historic properties during Washington’s Birthday Weekend."

Sources: https://america250fl.com/official-events/
https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2026/governor-ron-desantis-announces-statewide-commemoration-americas-250th-birthday

*"Florida, man, Friday!" is a feature wherein the word "man" is, as defined by Merriam-Webster, "used interjectionally to express intensity of feeling," and yes, a play on the "Florida man" colloquialism, as I share both fun and fundamental facts about living in Florida, with a primary focus on the First Coast in the Northeast part of the Sunshine State.