Being one of the fastest-growing counties in the country presents huge opportunities — rising tax revenues, private investment, community vibrancy — along with enormous challenges. This year, St. Johns County celebrated the completion of 61 capital improvement projects totaling more than $820 million. But meeting the need for new infrastructure and managing the effects of growth remain a tall order. We get an update from the county administrator about how it started and how it’s going.

Guest: St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews

Boosting pet care

Then, Americans love their pets, and nearly 100 million households — more than 70% of us — live with one. That, coupled with the pandemic pet ownership surge, ever-evolving treatment options and increased spending on pet care have generated huge demand for veterinarians. But vet school is as time-consuming and expensive as medical school and, like new doctors, vets need years of practical experience. To meet the need, EveryPet (formerly First Coast No More Homeless Pets) is offering a veterinary student training center at its Norwood Spay/Neuter Center & Community Clinic. In addition to teaching vets-in-training surgical techniques for spay and neuter services, the program teaches diagnostics and preventive care, while using the partnership to support the organization’s mission to provide affordable veterinary care.

Guests:

• Jennifer Barker, CEO, EveryPet
• Dr. Brian DiGangi, director of professional development, EveryPet

Banding, together

And, 52 shows in 52 weeks. Friends and music lovers Jason Roth and Heather Schatz made a pact in 2023 to see a band for every week of the year. That promise grew into a tradition. And this year is no exception. From Afrojack to Vampire Weekend, we get a report on the year that was, including performance highlights, earplugs and how new Jacksonville venues have figured into their annual commitment.

Guest: Jason Roth, owner of Castaways Vintage to Modern, music enthusiast