Following the Jacksonville Jaguars’ playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, Mayor Donna Deegan is sending 20 pounds of Mayport shrimp to Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan to honor a friendly wager. The shrimp, provided by family-run H&S Shrimp Co., known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, represents a gesture of sportsmanship and civic pride. According to the City of Jacksonville, the seafood, emblematic of Jacksonville’s maritime tradition, will be enjoyed in upstate New York.
Founded in 1959, H&S Shrimp is a longtime Jacksonville seafood business, owned by a firefighter’s family and representing the city’s waterfront community. Mayor Deegan said the shipment is intended to share Jacksonville seafood with Buffalo following the Jaguars’ playoff loss.
As part of the playoff season tradition, the exchange of regional foods highlights each city’s culinary specialties. Buffalo will receive Mayport shrimp, known for its sweet flavor and tender texture, providing a sample of Northeast Florida’s seafood. The gesture reflects community connections that extend beyond sports to include cultural and charitable ties between the cities.
The gesture between the mayors also includes a charitable component, with both leaders donating $500 to food banks in their respective cities. Mayor Deegan’s contribution went to Feed More Western New York, while Mayor Ryan’s went to Feeding Northeast Florida. Mayor Deegan added that the friendly rivalry is ongoing, hinting at next year’s competition.
