Bill DeLaney author of “Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure” is also co-owner and editor of “The JaxonMag”, “Modern Cities” and “Edible Northeast Florida”.
I’m excited to introduce you to Bill DeLaney, a talented writer based in Jacksonville, Florida. Bill’s work has been featured in various publications and websites, including “The JaxsonMag” – a multimedia project dedicated to urbanism and culture on Florida’s First Coast. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of Bill’s writing and his work with “The JaxsonMag,” as well as explore what makes Jacksonville such a unique and fascinating place.
First, let’s set the scene. Jacksonville is a vibrant city located in northeastern Florida. Known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and rich cultural history, it’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this part of the country. But what really sets Jacksonville apart is its unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. From towering skyscrapers to sprawling parks and nature preserves, this city truly has it all.
And that’s where Bill DeLaney comes in. As a writer and contributor to “The JaxsonMag,” Bill has a keen eye for what makes Jacksonville tick. He’s able to capture the essence of the city in his writing, whether he’s exploring its rich history or diving deep into its ever-evolving urban landscape.
So what exactly is “The JaxsonMag”?
“Jaxson” is a traditional term for someone from Jacksonville, Florida. Fittingly, The Jaxson is a place for those interested in learning about the city’s past and present, and who want a part in shaping its future.
Launched by Modern Cities in association with WJCT Public Broadcasting, The Jaxson is a multimedia project dedicated to urbanism and culture on Florida’s First Coast. The Jaxson continues Modern Cities’ focus on urbanism on a hyperlocal level, taking a street-view look at Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.
Through a combination of detailed analysis, innovative storytelling, and original reporting, The Jaxson explores the big issues facing Jacksonville in the modern era of urban growth. Stories cover development, culture, history, and neighborhood issues from the city’s Urban Core and all across the Northeast Florida region.
The Jaxson Mag
In addition to his work with “The JaxsonMag,” Bill has also written for a variety of other publications, including “The Florida Times-Union,” “Folio Weekly,” and “Void Magazine.” His writing covers a wide range of topics, from music and art to politics and current events.
Bill’s book “Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure”
“Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure” features 84 unusual stories and sites in the region. The book covers interesting stories and places from Cumberland Island to Marine Land, covering various neighborhoods. The places featured in the book are not usually found in Chamber of Commerce brochures, and the book is a good guide for tourists and locals looking to explore the region. One of the unique landmarks in Jacksonville is an orange dinosaur called Sexy Rexy, which was a former mini-golf obstacle and has become a landmark in the region. The name “Sexy Rexy” was chosen by a newspaper contest when a strip mall was being built behind it.
You could call Jacksonville the secret city of Florida because even many natives have a tough time pinning down its defining features and best spots. But for anyone willing to dig beneath the surface, there’s no shortage of incredible sights, hidden histories and unusual relics just waiting to be discovered. Want to see the world’s largest Native American woodcarving, chart the roots of Southern rock, or eat curly fries at the barbecue joint that claims to have invented them?
“Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure” is dedicated to telling the stories behind forgotten, mysterious and just plain interesting spots across Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Fernandina Beach and the surrounding communities. Here you’ll find out where you can see a long forgotten Florida waterfall with connections to Jacksonville’s founder, and learn why there’s a tombstone in the middle of a neighborhood sidewalk. You’ll hear the stories behind local delicacies like Jacksonville-style garlic crabs, datil peppers, Mayport shrimp and camel rider sandwiches. And of course, you’ll learn what exactly is up with that orange roadside dinosaur everyone’s always talking about.
Reedy Press
All in all, Bill DeLaney is a writer who truly captures the essence of Jacksonville. His work with “The JaxsonMag” and other publications has helped shine a spotlight on this unique and fascinating city, and we’re excited to see where his writing takes him next.
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