First Coast Connect: 11/26/25

First Coast Connect: 11/26/25

https://news.wjct.org/show/first-coas...

Despite what the internet is telling you, it’s possible to avoid the expensive and often soul-sucking experience of online shopping and behemoth retail. Buying (or sharing) a favorite book, making tribute donations to a selected nonprofit, keeping it local and shopping sustainably are all viable alternatives. We discuss ways to avoid the Black Friday blues.

Guests:

Suzanne Pickett, artist and CEO of Historic Eastside Community Development Corp.
Rona Brinlee, owner of The BookMark in Neptune Beach.
Virginia Chamlee, author of Big Thrift Energy: The Art and Thrill of Finding Vintage Treasures-Plus Tips for Making Old Feel New.
Erica La Spada, director of volunteer and community engagement, United Way of Northeast Florida.
Then, don’t let the cost of holiday gift giving pull you under. The National Retail Federation projects an increase in holiday spending this year, despite economic uncertainty. It predicts U.S. consumers will spend over $1 trillion in November and December. We talk to a financial expert with five surefire ways to keep your budget intact, from strategic saving to avoiding your worst impulses.

Guest:

Victoria Jones, member success manager, RadiFi Credit Union.
And, an author whose bi-coastal life is reflected in her new book for children. We meet the feline lover and animal advocate behind Orangey and Ricky: Country Cat, City Cat. The story centers on an unlikely yet transformative friendship between a pampered city cat and a feral barn cat. The former corporate attorney now author and vineyard owner discusses how her new book mirrors her own experience.

Guest:

Carole Coplan, author of Orangey and Ricky: Country Cat, City Cat.