JAX Chamber News Newswire

EverBank Commits $1 Million to Junior Achievement of North Florida’s Experiential Learning Center, Accelerating Path to Groundbreaking

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL, May 13, 2026 - Junior Achievement of North Florida (JANFL) today announced a $1 million cumulative investment from EverBank in support of the future JA Experiential Learning Center (ELC) - the largest commitment to the project to date and a defining step forward as JANFL builds momentum toward construction.

Through this leadership investment, EverBank will serve as the Presenting Sponsor of JA BizTown® within the ELC and will be featured through a dedicated storefront experience inside the simulation.

EverBank’s investment reflects a deep commitment to the EverBank Builds® platform, which focuses on expanding access to financial education, strengthening communities, and helping individuals build long-term financial futures.

The JA Experiential Learning Center - planned for Downtown Jacksonville - will bring together JA BizTown and JA Finance Park to deliver immersive, real-world learning experiences for students across Northeast Florida. At full scale, the Center is expected to serve approximately 30,000 students annually.

Within JA BizTown, students step into the roles of employees, business leaders, and consumers - making decisions, managing finances, and experiencing how a local economy operates. In JA Finance Park, students are challenged to make financial decisions based on a simulated life scenario that includes a job, income, and family responsibilities. The program emphasizes budgeting, saving, credit management, and career exploration.

“EverBank’s investment represents a pivotal moment for this project,” said Shannon Italia, President of Junior Achievement of North Florida. “As our largest investor to date, their leadership accelerates our path to groundbreaking and reflects a broader movement of organizations coming together to invest in the future of our community.”

Italia added, “This partnership is especially meaningful because it builds on a shared commitment to financial education. Through EverBank Builds, they are already investing in stronger financial futures - and the Experiential Learning Center allows that impact to scale in a powerful and lasting way.”

JANFL is working to move the project into the construction phase by the end of 2026, supported by growing engagement from corporate partners and the organization’s GROUNDBREAKERS initiative.

“At EverBank, we are committed to building stronger communities by expanding access to financial education and opportunity,” said Renuka Patel, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer of EverBank. “We’re proud to support the development of Junior Achievement’s Experiential Learning Center to give young people the tools, confidence and real-world perspective to build long-term financial well-being.”

“Through JA BizTown and JA Finance Park, students gain confidence by doing - not just learning,” said Italia. “EverBank’s presence will help bring that experience to life in a way that is relevant, tangible, and impactful.”

The ELC is part of a broader $15 million capital campaign to expand Junior Achievement’s reach and deepen its impact across Northeast Florida. With momentum continuing to build, JANFL is actively engaging additional partners who want to help shape a project designed to serve tens of thousands of students each year – and strengthen the region’s future workforce.

EverBank is a longstanding champion of Junior Achievement. Beyond this commitment, EverBank supports JANFL through its Touchdowns for Tomorrow program. Touchdowns for Tomorrow was launched through a partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars to bring early financial education to schools across the First Coast in North Florida. For every regular season Jaguars touchdown, both home and away, EverBank pledges $500 to JANFL. Since inception in 2022, over 10,000 local students have received vital financial education lessons through the program.

For more information about Junior Achievement of North Florida and the Experiential Learning Center, visit https://www.janflelc.org/

About Junior Achievement of North Florida
Junior Achievement of North Florida inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. JA’s hands-on learning experiences focus on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship – helping students build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to pursue choice-filled futures and contribute to a stronger Northeast Florida. For more information, visit janfl.org.

About EverBank

EverBank, N.A. (EverBank) is a nationwide specialty bank providing high-value products and services to consumer and commercial clients coast-to-coast. As a pioneer in online banking, we offer convenient digital access for clients 24/7, in addition to phone banking services and a network of financial centers across California, Florida and New York. EverBank’s commitment is to deliver to our clients high-performing, high-yield solutions backed by exceptional service, always giving them the advantage they expect, to make the most of their money. Visit everbank.com or connect and interact with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or X. EverBank is a Member FDIC.

FEEDING NORTHEAST FLORIDA RECEIVES KEYS TO CUSTOMIZED DEFENDER 130 AS A 2025 DEFENDER SERVICE AWARDS WINNER

Sat, 02 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Feeding Northeast Florida has received their customized Defender 130 vehicle for winning the Community Services Award of the Defender Service Awards
Feeding Northeast Florida rescues and distributes food to fight hunger across 12 counties, providing mobile pantries, nutrition boxes, healthy food prescriptions and other essential resources to help strengthen lives and communities
Defender has awarded six charitable organizations across the U.S. and Canada a custom Defender 130 vehicle, to further their ability to service their communities
For more information about the Defender brand, vehicles, and the Defender Service Awards Presented by CHASE, please visit https://www.landroverusa.com/defender/index.html

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –– May 1, 2026 –– Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) has received their customized Defender 130 vehicle for winning the Community Services Award category in the 2025 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE. The vehicle handover took place at the Land Rover Jacksonville retailer where the winning organization accepted the keys to their new Defender. With its eye-catching wrap design and array of accessories, the Defender is equipped to effectively promote Feeding Northeast Florida throughout the community, while its capabilities will expand their reach to even more people.

The British adventure brand, Defender has continued its legacy of supporting global humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. Inspired by their outstanding community service efforts as well as exemplifying the brand’s values, the six winning organizations have received a customized Defender 130 vehicle to support their steadfast dedication to aiding their local communities. Featuring three rows of seating accommodating up to eight volunteers, along with 88.9 cubic feet (2,156 liters) of load capacity, the Defender 130 will aid them to further their mission of service and build on the enduring legacy of Defender brand’s global philanthropic efforts.

Each winning organization had the opportunity to customize their new vehicle with purposeful Defender accessories, robust enough to support their unique demands, along with a personalized exterior vehicle wrap. The winning charitable organization has also received a $30,000 grant from the respective category sponsors.

Susan King, President & CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida, said: “Receiving this Defender 130 is an incredible honor and a meaningful addition to our work across Northeast Florida. Our fleet of refrigerated semi-trucks does incredible work moving large volumes of food across our 12-county service area, but you can't take a semi into every neighborhood. Much of our work is centered around addressing food insecurity in very rural parts of Florida. In addition, we are no strangers to disaster recovery efforts and this vehicle gives us the agility to go where the need is, getting food directly into the communities and hard-to-reach places where our neighbors need us most. We're deeply grateful to Defender, Chase, and our category sponsor ei3 for recognizing our mission and investing in our ability to serve.”

As the region’s largest hunger-relief nonprofit, Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) embodies a mission to use food as a catalyst to strengthen lives and communities. The organization rescues high-quality surplus food, sources nutritious food and mobilizes the public to fight hunger across a 12-county service area the size of New Jersey. Programs include mobile pop-up pantries, agency-supported permanent pantries, children’s snack meals, nutrition box deliveries, healthy food prescriptions, veteran and military pantry support and the distribution of other basic needs including menstrual products. In 2024, FNEFL distributed 35.7 million pounds of food — equal to 30 million meals — through nearly 500 agency partners to over 310,020 people experiencing hunger and food insecurity — including nearly 94,000 children. FNEFL operates with a team of 97, two warehouses, a fleet of 20 refrigerated box trucks and nearly 16,000 volunteers.

To learn more about 2025 Defender Service Awards Presented by Chase and six category winners, please visit: https://media.landrover.com/en-us/news/2025/11/driven-purpose-nonprofit-heroes-win-defender-service-awards

About Feeding Northeast Florida

Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) is the region’s largest nonprofit (501c3) food bank and hunger relief network. FNEFL provides nutritious foods and other essential goods to those in need and strives to improve the quality of life for people living in and around Northeast and North Central Florida by addressing food insecurity, poverty and poor health. Alongside our network of food distribution, agency and community partners, the Food Bank provides food resources and hope to help all people living in our 12-county service area (Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Levy, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns and Union) who struggle to feed themselves and their families. Feeding Northeast Florida works daily to find solutions to address the issues of food insecurity and poverty through awareness, advocacy, education, and action in ways that promote dignity, respect and empowerment. For more information, visit feedingnefl.org.

About the Defender brand

Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed and highly desirable. A modern-day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future.

Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own.

Media Contacts:

Ashley Williams

Senior PR & Communications Manager, Wingard for FNEFL

ashley@wearewingard.com

Joe Stauble

PR Manager JLR North America, for Land Rover

jstauble@jaguarlandrover.com

Jeff Ehoodin

Land Rover Senior PR Specialist, for Land Rover

jehoodin@jaguarlandrover.com

Feeding Northeast Florida Unveils Florida Blue Community Kitchen and Culinary Center

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

New facility expands food security with ready-to-eat meals and community involvement

Jacksonville, Fla. –– April 29, 2026 –– Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) unveiled its brand new Florida Blue Community Kitchen and Culinary Center today, with a volunteer and ribbon cutting event at its Northwest Jacksonville headquarters. The new facility, supported generously by Florida Blue, expands how the organization serves its neighbors by turning fresh, nutritious ingredients into ready-to-eat meals for individuals and families who need them most.

More than 80 GuideWell - Florida Blue team members, including Tony Jenkins, Florida Blue’s Northeast Market President and Lisa Bowen, GuideWell’s Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff, joined Feeding Northeast Florida staff, board members and volunteers for the dedication ceremony. They volunteered their time sorting and packaging food for upcoming distribution events and helped officially open the new kitchen space.

"At Florida Blue, our mission is to help people and communities achieve better health and we're proud to partner with Feeding Northeast Florida to bring the Florida Blue Community Kitchen to life,” said Tony Jenkins, Northeast Florida Market President. “By expanding access to nutritious meals and nutrition education, we’re addressing a critical aspect of health and well-being. This partnership underscores our commitment to addressing the social determinants of health, including food insecurity, and we're excited to see the positive impact it will have on the lives of our neighbors in Northeast Florida."

The 3,000 square foot kitchen will significantly enhance the food bank’s nutrition education programs, allowing for additional growth in its cooking and nutrition programming for the communities the food bank serves. Individuals will be able to take part in cooking classes, ongoing education and participate in events, all in a state-of-the-art environment.

“We have long planned for a commercial kitchen to enhance how we serve our neighbors struggling with food insecurity. When we moved into this new warehouse space in July 2024 we immediately began planning the kitchen as a phase II project,” said Susan King, President & CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida. “Seeing it come to fruition today is extremely gratifying. Corporate partnerships, like this one with Florida Blue, make our work possible. We look forward to using this new space to help support and feed our community into the future.”

Feeding Northeast Florida currently serves 12 counties throughout Northeast and North Central Florida. More than 310,000 individuals, including 90,000 children, throughout the region face food insecurity and may not be sure where their next meal will come from. Expansions like this community kitchen will allow the food bank to serve even more individuals in need and in new and enhanced ways.

The Florida Blue Community Kitchen enables the food bank to extend its reach beyond traditional food distributions, providing healthy, thoughtfully prepared meals through its existing network of partners, as well as through growing healthcare collaborations that recognize food as a critical part of overall well-being.

The nonprofit food bank relies on community support, philanthropic and corporate giving and grants. For every $1 donated, FNEFL can provide six meals to community members facing food insecurity. For more information about FNEFL, donation opportunities or to sign up to volunteer, visit feedingnefl.org.

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About Feeding Northeast Florida

About Florida Blue

Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, Florida Blue is the leading health insurer in Florida, and part of GuideWell, a not-for-profit health solutions company. Florida Blue offers a range of health plans and personalized care programs for individuals, families, businesses of all sizes, and Medicare beneficiaries. For over 80 years, the organization has been member centric and committed to making health care as accessible and affordable as possible. Serving more than six million members across all 67 Florida counties, Florida Blue has more than 7,000 employees and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., is owned by its policyholders, and is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

For additional information visit www.FloridaBlue.com. For the latest news and content, visit the Florida Blue Newsroom, and follow Florida Blue on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram @Florida.Blue; and X (formerly Twitter) @FLBlue.

Downtown Vision, Inc. Releases the 2025 State of Downtown Report

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Report documents record residential growth, landmark openings and a surging $7 billion development pipeline

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — April 29, 2026 — Downtown Vision, Inc. (DVI), the nonprofit Business Improvement District for Downtown Jacksonville, announced today the release of its 2025 State of Downtown Report. This latest edition marks a strategic shift from an 18-month reporting cycle to a calendar-year format, capturing the significant progress and development in Downtown Jacksonville from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

The report tracks Downtown's performance across key indicators of urban vitality, including development and investment, residential demand, office market and employment base, transportation and infrastructure enhancements and tourism health, to track momentum, benchmark trends and support investment efforts. The full 2025 report is available in an interactive format at DTJax.com/reports.

Highlights from the 2025 State of Downtown Report reflect a landmark year of growth and transformation:

Soaring Residential Growth: Downtown Jacksonville’s residential population reached 9,228 in 2025, representing a 97% increase since 2016. The area maintains a 96% residential occupancy rate, with more than 1,500 additional units actively under construction.
Elevated Investment: Downtown Jacksonville is experiencing significant investment, with $7 billion currently in the development pipeline.
In-Demand Opportunities: Expansion in the education and healthcare sectors, including the $345 million University of Florida graduate campus and a $190 million Baptist Health expansion, are reinforcing Downtown as a hub for innovation and care.
Destination Status: Major projects, such as the $1.4 billion "Stadium of the Future" renovation, the Four Seasons construction and advancing progress with Gateway Jax’s Pearl Square, underscore Downtown’s role as the region’s cultural and entertainment epicenter.
Public Parks: 2025 saw the opening or improvement of three major riverfront parks, including Riverfront Plaza, The Playground at St. Johns River Park/Friendship Fountain and the parks at RiversEdge.
Tourism Draw: Downtown hosted 19.7 million visits through nearly 3,200 events, drawing more than 5.3 million attendees. That activity generated 4.3% of the city's property tax revenue, 32% of its hotel tax revenue and 8% of its sales tax revenue.

“Downtown Jacksonville is no longer a future conversation. It is happening right now, and the momentum is undeniable,” said Colin Tarbert, CEO of the Downtown Investment Authority.

“Downtown Jacksonville’s progress continued in 2025, building on a strong foundation of public and private investment,” said Jake Gordon, CEO of Downtown Vision, Inc. “With cranes in the air across multiple project sites and growing alignment among partners, growth is unmistakable. This year’s report again shows that significant public and private investment is catalyzing real progress Downtown. The future of DTJax is bright."

The full 2025 State of Downtown report is available to view and download at DTJax.com/reports.

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About Downtown Vision:

Downtown Vision is a not-for-profit organization revitalizing Downtown Jacksonville through district services, stakeholder support, marketing, research, events and placemaking. Primarily funded by a self-assessment of Downtown property owners and governed by a board representing a diverse array Downtown stakeholders and community leaders, DVI administers a 1.3 square mile Business Improvement District. For more information, visit DTJax.com/dvi.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Honors Nurses for Their Compassionate Care and Dedication

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

April 28, 2026 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – Throughout May, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is proud to recognize and celebrate its nurses for the compassionate, skilled care they provide to patients and families across Northeast and North Central Florida.

Nurses are at the heart of hospice and palliative care, offering not only clinical expertise but also comfort, reassurance, and guidance during some of life’s most vulnerable moments. At Community Hospice & Palliative Care, nurses serve patients in homes, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and inpatient Centers for Caring, helping individuals and families navigate serious illness with dignity, compassion, and support.

“Throughout National Nurses Month, we are proud to recognize the extraordinary nurses who serve our patients and families with such compassion and dedication,” said Phillip Ward, president and CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. “Their work goes far beyond clinical care. They bring comfort, understanding, and a steady presence during times when it is needed most, and we are deeply grateful for the impact they make every day.”

In hospice and palliative care, nurses often become a trusted source of support for both patients and their loved ones. Their role is about caring for the whole person while supporting families every step of the way. They help manage pain and symptoms, educate families, coordinate care, and ensure that each patient’s goals, wishes, and quality of life remain at the center of every decision. It is this deeply personal approach to care that helps bring comfort, peace, and understanding when it is needed most.

Their work extends far beyond medical treatment alone. Whether sitting quietly at a bedside, answering difficult questions, or offering calm and reassurance in uncertain moments, nurses help create meaningful experiences rooted in dignity, compassion, and human connection.

This National Nurses Month, Community Hospice & Palliative Care extends heartfelt appreciation to its nursing team and to nurses everywhere whose dedication and compassion help make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

For more information on Community Hospice & Palliative, please visit www.communityhospice.com.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 47-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,500 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com

Fable Heart Media Launches "Jumpstart Jax" — A $10,000 Advertising Giveaway for Local Jacksonville Businesses

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:20:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Fable Heart Media

Website: fableheartmedia.com/jumpstart-jax

Email: info@fableheartmedia.com

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Fable Heart Media, a Jacksonville-based award-winning digital advertising agency, has announced the launch of Jumpstart Jax, a giveaway designed to invest directly in the growth of one deserving local business. One winner will receive a full-service advertising package valued at $10,000, free of charge and with no strings attached.

About the Prize

The grand prize includes $3,000 in direct advertising spend, funded entirely by Fable Heart Media, paired with up to $7,000 in professional strategic services. The winning business will receive end-to-end campaign management: ad strategy development, creative design, copywriting, ad placement, and ongoing management, all at no cost to the recipient. Ads will run for a minimum of 30 days (up to 90 days), and the winner will receive bi-weekly performance reports throughout the campaign. No ad goes live without the winner's approval.

Nick Leonard, Founder and Creative Director of Fable Heart Media, knows firsthand what it means to build something from the ground up in Jacksonville.

"I was born and raised here. I started this business in my hometown because I believed in this city and the people in it," said Leonard. "Jacksonville has been so good to me - to all of us at Fable Heart Media. It has supported us, pushed us to grow, and given us opportunities we will never take for granted. Jumpstart Jax is our way of saying thank you. If we can take even a little bit of what this city has given us and pour it back into another local business, that means everything to me. This isn't a marketing stunt, it's personal."

Now in its third consecutive year, Jumpstart Jax has become a cornerstone of Fable Heart Media's commitment to the Jacksonville business community - a tradition Leonard says he has no intention of stopping.

Why Jumpstart Jax?

Fable Heart Media was founded in Jacksonville. The agency credits the local business community as a key part of its own growth and success, and Jumpstart Jax is their way of returning that investment. The initiative reflects the agency's belief that a rising tide lifts all boats, and that one well-executed advertising campaign can be a genuine turning point for a small business.

Who Is Eligible?

The giveaway is open to businesses that meet the following criteria:

Headquartered within 50 miles of Jacksonville, Florida
Registered with the State of Florida (SunBiz) with a valid EIN
In active operation (not a proposed or pre-launch business)
Possesses at least one active social media channel and a live website
Business owner(s) must be 18 years of age or older
One entry per business (inclusive of DBAs)
Legally permitted to advertise
Non-profit organizations are welcome and encouraged to enter

Key Dates

Entries Begin: May 1, 2026
Entry Deadline: June 30, 2026
Winner Selected: July 1, 2026
Winner Announced: Within 5–10 days of the entry deadline via social media

How to Enter

Eligible businesses can enter at fableheartmedia.com/jumpstart-jax. Only one entry per business is permitted.

About Fable Heart Media: Fable Heart Media is a Jacksonville-based, award-winning marketing agency offering a full suite of services, including digital advertising, web design and development, branding, copywriting, SEO, social media management, outsourced marketing management, and HubSpot CRM onboarding and implementation. The agency serves businesses of all sizes, helping them build smarter systems, stronger brands, and sustainable growth. Learn more at fableheartmedia.com.

Heritage Capital Group Welcomes Phil Porter, Jr. as Principal

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (April 28, 2026) — Heritage Capital Group, Inc. (Heritage), an investment banking and financial advisory firm serving middle-market companies across the U.S. and globally, announced the appointment of Phil Porter, Jr. as a Principal in its Jacksonville office. As a seasoned automotive executive who has managed all facets of dealership operations, Porter will bring additional talent with operating experience to Heritage’s automotive team, and will facilitate and evaluate potential mergers and acquisitions.

Most recently, Porter led a team of more than 100 employees at Subaru of Jacksonville, which became one of the nation’s most recognized Subaru retailers while it was owned and operated by the Porter family for 25 years. Under Phil’s leadership, the organization achieved record-setting performance across sales and service while earning multiple industry accolades, including the prestigious Subaru of America Retailer of the Year award.

Porter also built his reputation as an industry leader through his service on the Jacksonville Automobile Dealers Association board. He is a 2019 graduate of the National Automobile Dealers Association Academy.

“Phil’s automotive industry expertise is highly valuable as we navigate transactions with dealer clients,” said Bill Sorenson, CEO of Heritage Capital Group. “After leading operations at one of the most respected Subaru dealerships in the country, Phil understands the strategic, operational, and personal considerations dealership owners face when planning for growth or transition. We are thrilled he is joining our team to strengthen our automotive advisory capabilities and deliver thoughtful, owner-centric advice.”

“I’m excited to join Heritage Capital Group and work with a team that is known for its integrity, collaborative culture, and deep transactional expertise,” said Porter. “After spending my career inside dealership operations and navigating our family’s own sale of two dealerships in partnership with Heritage, I understand how complex and emotional exit planning and M&A decisions can be for owners. I look forward to helping dealers maximize value, navigate their options with confidence, and achieve outcomes that align with both their business goals and personal legacies.”

Heritage Capital Group advises private companies in the areas of mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, business valuations, debt and equity capital raises, corporate restructurings, and financial and strategic advisory services focused on enhancing the value of business enterprises. Heritage Capital Group is a FINRA registered broker-dealer, and a member of Oaklins, the world’s most experienced mid-market M&A advisor, with 850 professionals globally and dedicated industry teams in 40 countries worldwide.

Media Contact:

Lauren Steif

lsteif@heritagecapitalgroup.com

904-354-9600

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 2026 RAHM CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT BENEFITTING ST. JUDE

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Thursday, May 14 – Saturday, May 17, 2026

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Help us create an unforgettable experience for our guests!

We are looking for 50+ enthusiastic volunteers to join us throughout the event weekend and play a vital role in bringing this incredible event to life. Volunteer opportunities include Event Prep & Set-Up, Registration (check-in and check-out), and General Floater Roles that will assist as Greeters, Auction Assistance, Mission Moment Station Attendants, Photo Station Attendants, Live Auction “Spotters,” and support with event breakdown.

Join Us for a Star-Studded Weekend of Golf, Music & Giving Back benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

The Rahm Celebrity Golf Tournament

TPC Sawgrass & Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa ?? May 14–17, 2026 | Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Thursday, May 14 – Songwriters' Night Kick off the weekend with an intimate evening featuring renowned Nashville songwriters sharing the stories—and performances—behind their biggest hits. Featured Artists: Kelley Lovelace, Eric Paslay, Derric Rutan, Rivers Rutherford

Friday, May 15 – Pairings Party & The Jam Meet your golf foursome at the Pairings Party, then rock the night away at The Jam—a high-energy concert featuring rock and roll legends. Featured Artists: Al Paris formerly of Kool and the Gang), David Cook, Fastball, Jack Hues (Wang Chung), Jeff “Skunk” Baxter (formerly of Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers), Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Mike Mills (R.E.M), and Simon Kirke (Bad Company)

Saturday, May 16 – Saturday Night Soirée Walk the red carpet, enjoy a gourmet dinner, bid in exciting auctions, and experience a powerful St. Jude mission moment. Entertainment by SIXWIRE & Friends.

To volunteer your time for one or more opportunity please CLICK HERE to browse shifts that are currently available

FAQs:

· Arrival time and Ending Time: Varies based on individual events and volunteer roles

· Pre-Event Training: There will be 2 scheduled Virtual “Meet and Greets” the week before the event so that you can learn more and be prepared for the night of event.

· Dress Attire: (Business Attire) Black top and bottom (dress, skirt, slacks) and comfortable shoes

· Safety and Security: There is no place to lock up valuables. Phones, keys, etc. must remain with you at all time

· Dinner and snacks will be provided

· Parking: Parking is available at the venue.

· Volunteers must be 18+ of age

Thank you for your anticipated support and participation!

Questions?

Please contact Dawn Barrack, Principal Advisor, at dawn.barrack@alsac.stjude.org

To go directly to our event site go to: therahmgolf.org

Jacksonville Artist with Global Acclaim at MOCA Jacksonville

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Outside Looking In: The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija Opens Thursday, April 30, 2026

Jacksonville, FL — The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), part of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida, announces featured exhibition Outside Looking In: The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija. This exhibition showcases the artistic career of Jacksonville-based, international artist Amer Kobaslija.The exhibition is on view April 30 through September 20, 2026, with a free Community Opening Celebration on April 30 from 8 to 9 p.m. Museum members receive early access to this preview the same evening.

Throughout his artistic trajectory, Kobaslija has depicted his surroundings with virtuosity and wit, displaying a keen eye for detail, informed by a deep understanding of the history of art. Embedded in his work is the search for a sense of place, reflected in the organization of his output in series that describe his nomadic life. Outside Looking In will trace his career from early works to the present, including works from his well-known series Florida Diaries; One Hundred Views of Kesennuma (Japan); Road to Rossinière (Switzerland); Places, Spaces; and the ongoing Artist Studios series.

THE FLORIDA DIARIES

The Florida Diaries has been an ongoing series for the artist, since he moved to Jacksonville in 1997. The works often juxtapose cheerful colors, lush landscapes and the likenesses of friends and neighbors, with a subtext about the continued development which has inevitably led to the replacement of Florida’s pristine landscape with landfills and endless residential and commercial centers. The contrast reflects Kobaslija’s appreciation of the people and culture of his adopted home state, together with his concerns over the consequences of our urban sprawl and impending effects of climate change; the familiarity coexisting with the outsider’s gaze.

ONE HUNDRED VIEWS OF KESENNUMA

The title of Kobaslija's One Hundred Views of Kesennuma was inspired by Japanese artist Hokusai's famous series of landscape paintings; Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji. Following the 2011 tsunami in Japan, he began an extensive series to document the wreckage, eventually making several trips to the country to witness the aftermath firsthand. The palpable parallels between the war torn Bosnia that Kobaslija witnessed in his childhood and his view in 2012 of the desecration Japan faced through its 2011 earthquake and tsunami are clearly depicted through his perspective.

ARTIST STUDIO SERIES

The artist studio has been an important motif for Kobaslija since graduate school, both his own, and others he has visited, from Pollock’s, to Philip Pearlstein’s, to Balthus’. Although the studios are always vacant, their interiors are cluttered and lived-in, acting as allegorical portraits of the people who inhabit them. For Kobaslija, they represent a reflection of the artist's self in time: “I see these studio paintings as meditations on past and present in a Proustian sense – the two states of mind that coexist and influence one another.”

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Born in Banja Luka, in today’s Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kobaslija fled as a refugee to Germany in 1993, following the outbreak of the Serbo-Croatian war. There, he began his formal art education at the prestigious Düsseldorf Art Academy, before receiving asylum in the United States. He immigrated to Florida, where he completed his B.F.A. in Printmaking at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL, and in 2003, he obtained his M.F.A. in Painting at Montclair State University in New Jersey. Kobaslija is currently a faculty member of the University of Central Florida, where he teaches painting in the university’s School of Visual Arts and Design.

Kobaslija is the recipient of prestigious awards, such as the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellowship (2013), the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant (2007), and the Joan Mitchell Foundation Grant (2005). His exhibitions have reached Paris, France; Brig, Switzerland, as well as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, and Chicago. Kobaslija’s recent exhibitions include the Baker Museum, in Naples, FL, in 2024; and solo exhibitions in Zagreb, Croatia and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in 2025.

OPENING CELEBRATION & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
The Opening Celebration on April 30 is free and open to all from 8-9 p.m. Museum Members receive early access to the event.

In partnership with downtown merchants, guests receive 10% off at participating restaurants by showing their event ticket (Bellwether, Pour Tap Room, Sweet Pete’s; hours vary).

SPONSORSHIP
Outside Looking In: The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija is made possible by operational support from the City of Jacksonville, the Donald and Maria Cox Fund, the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Joan and Preston Haskell; the MOCA Director’s Circle; the University of North Florida; and Visit Jacksonville.

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

Located in the heart of historic downtown, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is one of the city’s most significant cultural assets. As the oldest art museum in Northeast Florida and one of the first contemporary art museums to be established in the United States, MOCA is focused on promoting the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time.

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. In 2009, MOCA became a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than a century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

Among the most prominent contemporary art museums in the Southeast, MOCA’s exhibitions and programs set the pace for arts and art-integrated programming on a regional and national stage, with an emphasis on works created from 1960 to the present. Renowned in this community, MOCA casts the spotlight on Jacksonville as a burgeoning, vital arts destination. The museum is free to the public every Saturday during VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA, as well as the first and third Wednesday evening of each month during Museum Nights at MOCA presented by Florida Blue.

MOCA Jacksonville is located at 333 N. Laura Street in Downtown Jacksonville. For more information including hours of operation, admission prices, and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904-620-1214 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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25 Employers Take Part in ‘2nd Chance’ Hiring Event on April 29 at FSCJ Downtown

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (April 27, 2026) To coincide with National Second Chance Month in April, nearly 25 employers are taking part in the CareerSource Northeast Florida (CareerSource NEFL) in-person Second Chance Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29 at the Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Advanced Technology Center, located at 401 W. State St. in downtown Jacksonville.

“Second Chance Month underscores the importance of helping people who have been involved in the justice system to redefine themselves and contribute to our community and the economy,” said CareerSource NEFL President Cheryl Taylor. “We are proud to help those who have been incarcerated transition back into the job market…not only during this event, but throughout the year.”

For those who need help creating a resume, CareerSource NEFL will also offer one-on-one resume assistance one hour prior to the event (9 to 10 a.m.) – and job seekers can visit any CareerSource NEFL Career Center prior to the event for resume help. CareerSource NEFL representatives will also have a raffle for gift cards for those who need clothing, along with two bikes to help those who can use them for short-range transportation.

Although the event focuses on assisting those with background issues that pose a challenge to their employment, it is open to all job seekers.

All job seekers should register at www.employflorida.com prior to the event.

For more information and registration, job seekers can visit qr.fm/7l4qmh.

In addition to CareerSource NEFL, other organizations hosting the event include Operation New Hope, FSCJ, University of North Florida, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Taming My M.E.S.S. Foundation, MHRC and PNC.

Every year, more than 30,000 people are released from Florida prisons and face challenges when they attempt to reenter the workforce. Second chance workshops and job fairs help these men and women overcome barriers to employment to gain employment in Northeast Florida.

For more information about these recruitment events and other training opportunities and workshops hosted by CareerSource NEFL, visit the events page at https://careersourcenortheastflorida.com/events/.

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Media Contact: Ron Whittington, 904.563.0402 (cell) rwhittington@careersourcenefl.com

Jacksonville Aviation Authority’s $230 Million Bond Issue for Concourse B Construction Receives Solid Credit Ratings

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Nation’s Top Credit Rating Agencies Point to JAA’s Stable Financial Outlook

[Jacksonville, FL – April 23, 2026] – Three credit rating agencies, Moody’s Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC, (KBRA), assigned the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) ratings of A1, A+ and AA, respectively. Each company determined the JAA’s financial outlook as stable while it seeks a $230 million bond issuance for construction of a third concourse (Concourse B) at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX).

The positive ratings are expected to enable JAA to issue the bonds at more favorable rates, thereby lowering the authority’s costs. It’s the organization’s first time issuing public debt in nearly 20 years.

Key positive indicators for KBRA’s AA rating include the Authority’s strong financial profile with high historical debt service coverage and outstanding liquidity, a large and growing market supported by military, business and tourism demand and a manageable capital program. JAX is currently the only medium hub airport to receive an AA rating from KBRA.

Moody’s attributed their A1 rating to the “airport’s dominant market position as the primary commercial service airport for Northeast Florida, supported by a large and growing origin-and-destination service area with limited nearby competition...The stable outlook reflects expectations that the JAA will maintain strong debt service coverage above 3.0x and liquidity levels above 600 days cash on hand while completing the Concourse B project without material cost overruns or delays.”

“These ratings signify the strong financial position of the JAA,” JAA CEO Mark VanLoh said. “This allows us to finance projects that matter to the Northeast Florida community such as the construction of Concourse B. Not only will it bring additional gates which are desperately needed, but new customer service amenities and great dining options for travelers.”

The S&P justified their A+ rating by stating that “the stable outlook reflects our expectation that the authority will maintain healthy financial metrics that are in line with the current forecast, supported by generally positive enplanements trends and no additional debt needs.”

“This bond issuance is a critical component for the financing of Concourse B,” JAA Board Chair David Hodges Jr said. “These strong ratings are the result of wise financial decision-making at all levels of the Aviation Authority management and staff.”

Added JAA Chief Financial Officer Ross Jones: “The strength of management, the current status of the Concourse B project and the Authority’s strong financial metrics are likely factors these agencies considered while issuing their guidance. We look forward to going out to the bond market and securing financing for the completion of our largest construction project in the last 20 years.”

With credit ratings now in place, the Aviation Authority will seek financing in the open bond market for Concourse B construction in

Media Contact:

Greg Willis

Marketing & Public Relations Director

Jacksonville Aviation Authority

Ph: (904) 741-3676

Cell: (904) 221-8023

Web site: www.flyjacksonville.com

DEADLINE EXTENSION | Gateway Jax Announces Call for Artists for Pearl Square Public Art

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Gateway Jax, a leading developer in Downtown Jacksonville’s Urban Core, has announced an extension for its call for artists, announced last week. The call is for a series of public art commissions, including murals and sculptural works, that will be incorporated throughout its inaugural neighborhood, Pearl Square.

Interested artists are invited to apply for either or both mediums. Priority consideration will be given to local and regional artists with experience in large-scale public art, demonstrating strong visual impact and execution, and feel integrated, human-centered and rooted in Jacksonville’s identity. Commissions for this project start at $25,000.

Submissions should be made via CaFÉ.com using the relevant application links for either the mural or sculptural opportunities. Applications have been extended and are now due by midnight on Sunday, April 26.

47TH HISTORIC SPRINGFIELD TOUR OF HOMES AND GARDENS PRESENTED BY M&M HOMES

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL, April 21, 2026 - Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council and M&M Homes present the 47th Historic Springfield Tour of Homes and Gardens on Saturday-Sunday, April 25-26, 2026 from 12 PM to 5 PM each day.

Explore Jacksonville's oldest suburb and take a peek behind the porches! This year's tour features seven properties throughout the Springfield Historic District, including preserved historic homes, new homes built in historic style, and a “FunGarden” featuring space for attendees of all ages to learn and play. Homes are open 12-5 PM each day and homeowners are present to answer questions and offer a look inside. Check-in at the SPAR Building (1321 N Main Street) for tickets or purchase in advance at www.SpringfieldTour.com for early bird rates.

In addition to the beautified homes, guests can enjoy live music at one tour stop and dessert trucks at multiple points throughout the tour. Guests can extend their tour by visiting local businesses, many of which are offering promotions and discounts to guests with a tour map including 1748 Bakehouse, Crispy’s, Good Sandwich, Juice Wine Bar, Meta Earth, Stumpy’s Hatchet House, Wafaa & Mike’s Cafe, and more.

Tickets are $20 if purchased in advance and $30 if purchased the day of the tour. Guests receive a tour map and guide at check-in at the SPAR Building (1321 N Main Street). Guests may walk, bike, drive, or use our complimentary shuttle service.

Visit www.SpringfieldTour.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District. Proceeds from the Tour of Homes and Gardens benefit our work to preserve and revitalize the Springfield community.

WJCT Public Media Appoints Geri Cirillo as Interim President and CEO

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Cirillo’s 30+ years of service to the organization ensures consistency in daily operations while a national executive search progresses

April 21, 2026 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media today announced the appointment of Geri Cirillo as Interim President and CEO. Her selection was unanimously approved by the organization’s Board of Trustees.

Cirillo has held various leadership roles at WJCT Public Media through a career spanning more than 30 years, most recently as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Her appointment follows the retirement of David McGowan as President and CEO on April 17, 2026.

“Geri possesses a comprehensive understanding of WJCT Public Media’s audiences, community partners, team members and opportunities. Her institutional knowledge is matched only by the trust she has earned across our editorial, underwriting and development operations, as well as the donor community that supports our mission,” said Bill Hendrich, Chair of WJCT Public Media’s Board of Trustees.

This announcement builds on recent momentum across the organization. WJCT Public Media’s flagship digital-first platform, Jacksonville Today has surpassed 60,000 subscribers to its award-winning daily newsletter. Meaningful audience gains have also been recorded on WJCT News 89.9, reinforcing the organization’s credibility as the top-rated news/talk station in the Jacksonville metropolitan area. In-person events have drawn record attendance in 2026, with more than 3,500 registrants participating in this year’s Be My Neighbor Day and Film at WJCT Studios screenings attracting an average of 150+ moviegoers per screening.

Cirillo’s selection as Interim President and CEO ensures consistency in the organization’s executive team. Together with Editorial Director Jessica Palombo and Vice President of Development Sarah Dobson, Cirillo will continue to grow the organization’s multi-platform reach and community-focused programming.

“Our team is well-positioned to carry David McGowan’s legacy of innovation forward. As we look to the future, I’m humbled to serve in this capacity and ensure that our team has the support, guidance and resources to deliver on our mission every day,” said Cirillo.

DRiWaterstone, an executive search, leadership and advisory firm, is currently managing the national search for WJCT Public Media’s next permanent President and CEO. Cirillo will work closely with the Board of Trustees’ search committee, led by Chair Bill Hendrich, Immediate Past Chair Farley Kern and Chair-Elect Anne Madsen, to onboard the new leader once they are selected.

The Board of Trustees comprises leaders with deep experience across media and publishing, banking and financial services, community-based organizations and executive leadership. In addition to Hendrich, Kern and Madsen, the Board's executive team includes Greg Anderson as Treasurer. Additional Trustees are:

? Martha Baker

? Debbie Buckland

? Brian Bush

? Frank Denton

? Karen Feagins

? Dan Foley

? Lawsikia Hodges

? Sam Inman

? David Loeb

? Patti McElroy

? Neera Shetty

? Austin Staton

? Asghar Syed

? Jerry Wilson

? Kimmie Winston

? LaTanya Wynn-Hall

To learn more about WJCT Public Media, visit wjct.org.

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About WJCT Public Media:
WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

NEILY JONES

Promotion & Marketing Associate, WJCT Public Media

904.318.2633 | nbraren@wjct.org

100 Festival Park Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32202

wjct.org | @WJCTJax

ICI Homes opens new model homes at Oakbend in Wellen Park

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Award-winning Costa Mesa and Brooklyn honored in Parade of Homes

VENICE, Fla. (April 21, 2026) – ICI Homes, a Florida-based custom homebuilder and one of the nation's most esteemed builders, proudly announces the opening of two award-winning model homes at Oakbend in Wellen Park, a nationally top-ranked master-planned community.

“We are thrilled to open our new model homes at Oakbend in Wellen Park and grateful for the Parade of Homes recognition from the Suncoast Builders Association,” said ICI Homes Tampa Division Manager Greg Jones. “Our new model homes at Wellen Park are ready to inspire prospective buyers. The Costa Mesa and Brooklyn model homes display ICI Homes’ exceptional quality construction and thoughtful design process.”

Honored by the Parade of Homes in Manatee and Sarasota counties, the Costa Mesa received the Best Overall award for Custom Home category 2 and a ribbon for Best Feature for the hidden pantry. The Costa Mesa is a spacious, open-concept, one-story home with over 2,500 square feet of living space. The thoughtfully laid-out floor plan offers four spacious bedrooms and three baths, with spaces ideal for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoyment. The heart of the home is the expansive kitchen, featuring a large island with seating and an elegant flow that opens into the dining and living areas. Overlooking the living room, the kitchen allows for easy conversation and connection. The living room's 12-foot ceilings create a sense of openness, filling the space with natural light. Slide open the doors to the extended lanai – a beautiful balance between indoor and outdoor living. Each bedroom offers a peaceful retreat, with the master suite standing out as a private oasis. The bedrooms are thoughtfully positioned to provide comfort and privacy, and the flex room is designed as a home office.

The Brooklyn won a Parade of Homes ribbon for Best Feature for the home’s Bay Window. The Brooklyn is a versatile home with over 3,000 square feet of living designed to bring comfort, style, and functionality to everyday living. The stunning two-story layout offers four bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, and a three-car garage, making it ideal for families who need space and flexibility. The Brooklyn opens into a grand foyer that leads to the center of the home. To the left of the entryway is a flex room. The foyer leads into a spacious living room, an inviting area with abundant natural light that flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining room. The deluxe kitchen is equipped with a large island, high-end appliances, a walk-in pantry, and ample counter space. The adjacent dining room is perfect for more formal gatherings, while the cozy nook provides a sunny spot with large windows overlooking the covered lanai. The main floor master suite is a private retreat. There is also a laundry room conveniently located near the kitchen. Upstairs, the Brooklyn has three additional bedrooms positioned around a game room. Outside, the Brooklyn’s covered lanai extends the living space outdoors. The Brooklyn features a three-car garage.

What makes the models truly special is ICI Homes’ unique ability to customize every aspect of the home. Want a hidden pantry, an extended lanai, a study, a gym, or a personalized garage? ICI Homes’ ability to customize means every detail can be tailored and every home can be personalized to create a unique home that meets the homebuyer’s lifestyle.

Oakbend in Wellen Park is a boutique, gated and maintenance-assisted enclave of new custom homes located just behind Downtown Wellen Park. ICI Homes at Oakbend features one- and two-story customizable floor plans ranging from 2,537 square feet to more than 3,200 square feet and priced from the mid-$700s. Model homes are open daily and there is a Move-in Ready home featuring ICI Homes’ Costa Mesa plan.

Oakbend in Wellen Park is steps from CoolToday Park, the spring training home of the Atlanta Braves. Residents of the golf cart-friendly community are surrounded by vibrant resort-style amenities that feel like a five-star getaway. Enjoy a sparkling pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and trails that connect to Wellen Park. Play pickleball, bocce ball, or unwind at the gathering lawn. There are parks, a playground, and even a nearby golf course. Located within the top-rated Sarasota County School District and just 15 minutes from Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches, Oakbend offers the best of Florida living.

ICI Homes is also building in Palmera at Wellen Park, offering custom single-family homes from the mid-$800s. Both Oakbend and Palmera are natural gas communities.

To schedule a showing, call or text (844) 349-6401. To learn more, visit https://icihomes.com/community/wellen-park.

Photography:

ICI Homes has opened two new award-winning model homes at Oakbend in Wellen Park.

The Costa Mesa received the Best Overall award for Custom Home category 2 and a ribbon for Best Feature for the hidden pantry in the Parade of Homes.

The Brooklyn won a Parade of Homes ribbon for Best Feature for the home’s Bay Window.

About ICI Homes

ICI Homes is Florida’s leading custom home builder. Founded in Daytona Beach in 1979, ICI Homes has built thousands of new homes in communities throughout Florida. The company also has a Build on Your Land division. ICI Homes is well known for its exceptional quality home designs, its unique ability to customize and its excellence in delivering the highest levels of customer service and satisfaction. The company takes pride in offering a wide variety of architectural styles and floor plans to match every lifestyle and price range. ICI Homes is consistently ranked in the nation’s Top 100 Builders by Builder magazine. The company has received hundreds of awards for its homes and communities, and honors for its dedication to giving back to the communities it serves. For more information, visit ICIHomes.com.

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WaterWalk by Wyndham Jacksonville to Host Open House on April 30, 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — April 30, 2026 — The community is invited to attend a special Open House event at WaterWalk by Wyndham Jacksonville on Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 4-6pm. This event offers an opportunity for business professionals, and community partners to tour the property, explore its unique accommodations, and connect with the team behind this innovative extended-stay concept.

The Open House will showcase WaterWalk’s modern apartment-style suites, designed to provide the comfort of home with the convenience of hotel amenities. Attendees will have the chance to experience firsthand the spacious layouts, fully equipped kitchens, and flexible stay options that cater to both short-term guests and long-term residents.

Guests can enjoy guided tours, light refreshments, and networking opportunities throughout the event. Director of Sales, Jaela Walker will be available to answer questions and provide insights into how WaterWalk supports business travelers, relocating professionals, and individuals seeking high-quality, flexible living arrangements.

This event is part of WaterWalk’s ongoing commitment to building strong relationships within the Jacksonville community and supporting local economic growth.

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
Time: 4pm-6pm
Location: WaterWalk by Wyndham Jacksonville
8895 Perimeter Park Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32216

Community members, Chamber partners, and local businesses are encouraged to attend and learn more about this exciting addition to Jacksonville’s hospitality landscape.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Jaela Walker
205.246.7840
jaela.walker@waterwalk.com

About WaterWalk by Wyndham Jacksonville
WaterWalk by Wyndham Jacksonville offers a unique blend of hotel and apartment living, providing upscale, flexible accommodations designed for today’s travelers and residents. With a focus on comfort, convenience, and community, WaterWalk delivers a modern hospitality experience tailored to a variety of lifestyle needs.

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens Announces Tickets Now on Sale for ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby on May 2

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Early bird pricing available through April 10
JACKSONVILLE, FLA. – Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens announced today that tickets are
now on sale for ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby, the Zoo’s premier annual fundraising event, taking
place Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
For the first time, ExZOOberation will be held beneath the breathtaking VyStar SkyScape,
overlooking the new J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River habitat, offering guests a
one-of-a-kind setting for an unforgettable evening.
Inspired by the excitement and pageantry of Derby Day, ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby will blend
Southern charm, bold fashion, and the thrill of the Kentucky Derby into a high-energy celebration.
Guests will enjoy a lively watch party of the “most exciting two minutes in sports,” alongside
immersive experiences that highlight the Zoo’s mission to care for thousands of animals and plants
while advancing critical conservation efforts.
“ExZOOberation is more than a celebration, it’s an opportunity for our community to come together
in support of wildlife and conservation,” said Nikki Smith, Jacksonville Zoo’s Chief Philanthropy and
Marketing Officer. “This year’s Seagrass Derby theme, paired with our stunning new SkyScape and
Manatee River habitat, will create an experience unlike anything we’ve hosted before.”
The evening will feature all-inclusive food and beverage tastings from local culinary favorites, open
bars, live entertainment, casino-style gaming, up-close animal experiences, and a curated silent
auction with more than 100 items and experiences.
Proceeds from ExZOOberation directly support animal wellbeing, fund educational programs, and
advance vital conservation initiatives locally and around the world.
ExZOOberation is a 21+ event. All ticket levels include food and beverage tastings, with early bird
pricing available through April 10. Presale General Admission begins at $185, while VIP Admission
and VIP Table packages provide access to a premium experience area, buffet, and exclusive
vendors.
To purchase tickets or learn more, visit: www.jacksonvillezoo.org/exzooberation.

About Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
For over 100 years, the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens has aimed to inspire the discovery
and appreciation of wildlife through innovative experiences in a caring environment. Starting in
1914 with an animal collection of one red deer fawn, the Zoo now has more than 2,000 rare and
exotic animals and 1,000 species of plants, boasting the largest botanical garden in Northeast
Florida. The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a nonprofit organization and a portion of
every ticket sold goes to the over 35 conservation initiatives Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical
Gardens supports around the world, and here in NE Florida. The Zoo is proud to be an accredited
member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, visit jacksonvillezoo.org.
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Florida Blue Foundation invests $525,000 in community health innovation through 2026 Sapphire Awards

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Nine honorees recognized for advancing impact in maternal health, mental well-being, crisis response, and community-based support.

Key highlights from this year’s event and awards include:

$525,000 awarded to this year’s honorees
Nine programs, organizations, and individuals recognized
600+ attendees
60 speakers, experts, and innovators
Two days of learning, collaboration, and connection
166 Sapphire Awards presented since 2005
$8.5M+ invested in community health impact

ORLANDO, Fla. – [April 17, 2026] - The Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue, announced the 2026 Sapphire Award recipients, recognizing nine programs, organizations, and individuals improving health and well-being across Florida.

This year’s honorees collectively received $525,000 to advance innovative approaches in maternal health, mental well-being, crisis response, and community-based support. The awards were presented during the Foundation’s annual Community Health Symposium and Sapphire Awards on April 16 in Orlando.

"Each of this year’s honorees is pushing community health forward in powerful ways," said Florida Blue Foundation Executive Director Susan Towler. "Their innovation, compassion, and commitment to improving the lives of Floridians inspires us, and we are honored to support their work."

2026 Sapphire Award Honorees

Programs:

The TEACUP Preemie & NICU Support Program, led by The Children’s Healing Institute (West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County) provides free, bilingual emotional support, maternal mental health screening, lactation education, and resource navigation for families with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The program strengthens maternal well-being, supports healthy infant development, and helps parents build confidence during a challenging time. It has received a first-place award and $100,000. Watch their video.

The S.A.F.E. program, led by Women’s Center of Jacksonville (Jacksonville, Duval County) delivers trauma-informed medical care, forensic exams, and advocacy for survivors of sexual assault. By uniting medical, legal, and social supports, S.A.F.E helps survivors begin the path toward healing while strengthening community safety. The program was honored with a second-place award and $50,000. Watch their video.

The Obstetrics Program, led by Banyan Community Health (Doral, Miami-Dade County), provides integrated primary and behavioral health care for high-need mothers. The program, provided through the Federally Qualified Health Center, is known for increasing maternal health access and achieving exceptional outcomes. It received a third-place award and $25,000. Watch their video.

Organizations:

The Homeless Empowerment Program (Clearwater, Pinellas County) serves more than 3,000 individuals annually with integrated health care, behavioral health, workforce readiness, and housing. Since its inception, the program has achieved a 44% reduction in ER visits, improved physical or mental health for 68% of participants, and a stable housing rate of 92%. The organization received a first-place award and $100,000. Watch their video.

The South Florida Wellness Network (Fort Lauderdale, Broward County) is a peer-driven recovery model supporting individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges across Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Innovative programs help bridge the gap between mental and physical health, while also strengthening recovery pathways. The organization received a second-place award and $50,000. Watch their video.

The Center for Progress and Excellence (Fort Myers, Lee County) provides 24/7 crisis intervention and mental health services to children and families. Through its innovative, trauma-informed approach, the organization embeds mental health professionals within schools, hospitals, and law enforcement networks, resolving 90% of crises on site. The organization received a third-place award and $25,000. Watch their video.

Individuals:

Dr. Joseph H. Davis of Anchor House Services (Auburndale, Polk County) is a lifetime advocate for youth in foster care. Under his leadership, Anchor House has grown more than 600%, expanding housing, education, and therapeutic services. He received a first-place award and $100,000, which will be directed toward his work at Anchor House Services. Watch his video.

Robert Ranieri of House of Hope (Stuart, Martin County) is a tireless advocate for those in need. Throughout his career, he has built transformative cross-sector partnerships and innovative programs, strengthening food security, health access, and economic stability. Ranieri has expanded House of Hope’s reach to 30,000 people monthly. Ranieri was honored with a second-place award and $50,000, which will be directed to the House of Hope. Watch his video.

Faye Johnson, CEO of Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition (Jacksonville, Duval County) is a servant leader who has devoted 35 years to championing maternal and child health. Throughout her career, she has advanced programs and policies addressing the root causes of infant mortality and health access. Johnson was honored with a third-place award and $25,000, directed towards Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition. Watch her video.

Florida Blue established the Florida Blue Foundation more than 25 years ago and introduced the Sapphire Awards in 2005 to recognize excellence and innovation in community health, leadership, and programs across Florida. Since then, the Foundation has presented 166 Sapphire Awards, totaling more than $8.5 million in community support and impact.

This year’s symposium, themed "The Power of Connection," featured 60 experts and innovators exploring maternal mental health, community-academic research, nonprofit technology, and strategies for building meaningful connections. More than 600 attendees participated from across the health care, government, higher education, and nonprofit sectors.

To learn more about the Florida Blue Foundation’s impact on communities across the state, read GuideWell’s latest impact report.

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About Florida Blue Foundation

Florida Blue Foundation enables healthy communities by making grants, building coalitions, and embracing solutions that create a meaningful impact in communities across the state. An average of 10 million Floridians receive services each year as a result of its community investments. Founded in 2001, Florida Blue Foundation is committed to improving health by impacting food security, advancing mental well-being, growing healthy communities, and addressing health disparities. Florida Blue Foundation is a trade name of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Foundation, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, please visit www.FloridaBlueFoundation.com.

About Florida Blue

From Campus to Community: Ability Housing Breaks Ground on Village at Lake Forest

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

New development will turn former school property into affordable housing and early learning center on Jacksonville’s Northside

Apr. 15, 2026 — Jacksonville, Fla. — Representatives from Ability Housing, Duval County Public Schools (DCPS), the City of Jacksonville, Bank of America, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida and other community partners today broke ground on Village at Lake Forest: a transformative redevelopment of the former Lake Forest Elementary School property. The new community at 901 Kennard Street will bring 120 affordable apartment homes to Jacksonville’s Northside, bringing new life to a parcel that has been vacant since the school’s closure in 2019.

This new development is the result of a unique partnership between Ability Housing and DCPS to ensure the site’s future use would honor its educational past. In a first-of-its-kind agreement, Ability Housing will set aside 25% of the units for DCPS faculty and staff — creating a vital resource to support district-wide recruitment and retention. Additionally, DCPS will operate an on-site early learning center.

“Village of Lake Forest is an exceptional example of true collaboration between engaged citizens, the school district and a nonprofit developer focused on changing lives through housing,” said Reggie Fullwood, CEO of Ability Housing. “We are transforming this long-dormant campus into a thriving community asset that will provide quality, affordable homes for working families and educators, and an enriching environment for our youngest neighbors to take their first educational steps.”

The apartment community will include five three-story residential buildings offering a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units. Additional amenities will include a community center, computer lab, library and flexible spaces for workshops, training and events.

All units will be affordable to households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with 23 units available to households earning up to 80% AMI. Rents are calculated by household size and income, based on data updated annually by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Plans for the on-site early learning center were solidified through community listening sessions during the development planning process. The center will be available to families residing at Village at Lake Forest as well as the surrounding neighborhood.

“Redeveloping the former Lake Forest Elementary site into quality affordable housing with an early learning center is a meaningful way to reimagine its service to the public,” said Jim Culbert, Chief Operations Officer of Duval County Public Schools. “When students, families and educators call the same neighborhood home, the entire community benefits. We’re proud to partner with Ability Housing on this project, which will help Team Duval continue to attract and retain the highest quality professionals to serve our students every day.”

Funding for the $46 million development has been secured through a variety of public and private sources. Bank of America is underwriting a $23 million construction mortgage. Non-profit syndicator National Equity Fund is providing approximately $18.1 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity. The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC) Mortgage is underwriting a $10 million permanent mortgage. Additional support has been provided by the City of Jacksonville through a $4 million Community Development Block Grant and a $2.5 million HOME loan; $2.5 million in financing from the Jacksonville Housing Finance Authority; and a $500,000 impact investment from The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida through its Local Capital Pool.

“The Village at Lake Forest is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can address our city’s critical need for affordable housing,” said Mayor Donna Deegan. “This development is building a stronger Jacksonville by turning a shuttered school property into a vibrant new community that brings dedicated homes for educators and high-quality early learning to the neighborhood."

Construction for the Village at Lake Forest is anticipated to take 18 months. PQH is the project architect. Elkins Construction, LLC is the general contractor, and Kennedy Civil Services is the civil engineering firm. Leasing details will be available closer to completion.

For more information about Ability Housing’s properties throughout Florida, visit www.abilityhousing.org.

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About Ability Housing
Ability Housing is an industry-leading not-for-profit multifamily rental housing developer dedicated to creating high-quality affordable housing. We invest in communities through properties that enhance their surrounding neighborhoods, improve each community’s quality of life, and connect residents with a network of voluntary support services.

For more information, visit abilityhousing.org, like the organization on Facebook (facebook.com/AbilityHousing) and follow on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/ability-housing/).

News4JAX: The Local Station Named Overall Station of the Year at Florida Association of Broadcasters Awards

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL: WJXT / News4JAX: The Local Station was named Overall Station of the Year for Medium Market at the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists (FABJ) Florida News Awards, earning top honors and multiple additional recognitions that reflect the station’s commitment to trusted local journalism and community service.

“Our team doesn’t do this work with awards in mind — we do it because our community depends on us,” said Vice President and General Manager Terri Cope Walton. “This acknowledgment is a reflection of the good work our journalists, producers, photographers, editors and digital teams deliver every day.”

The News4JAX team took home several big wins across key categories, including multi-media reporting, economic reporting and cultural/historical storytelling.

The mission of Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists is to support and inspire creative and impactful storytelling with the purpose of showing the critical importance journalism has in the State of Florida.

2026 FABJ Florida News Awards — News4JAX Results

Winners

Overall Station Of The Year — News4JAX: The Local Station
Multi-Media Reporter (MMJ) — Sophia Vitello
Economic Reporting — “Addressing A4dability” — Tiffany Salameh, Ciara Earrey, Karina Kubasak
Feature | Cultural / Historical — “Echoes Of Freedom: 125 Years of Lift Every Voice and Sing” — Amanda Devoe, Foad Raja

Finalists

Feature | Cultural / Historical — “Tracing The Roots: The Story Of Juneteenth” — News4JAX Team
Sports Story | Single Or Series — “The Revenge Tour” — Chris Will, Elijah Morris, Christopher Smith
Website / Digital — News4JAX Digital Team

You can read more here on our web channel.

About WJXT Channel 4

WJXT Channel 4 and News4JAX.com provides news, information and entertainment to the Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia region. As the market leader, The Local Station is committed to bringing quality news and programming to the local community it serves. The station is owned by The Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) and is one of seven Graham Media Group stations along with WCWJ Jacksonville, WKMG Orlando, WSLS Roanoke, KPRC Houston, KSAT San Antonio and WDIV Detroit.

About Graham Media Group

Graham Media Group is comprised of seven local media powerhouses, plus Graham Digital, Omne and Social News Desk – all delivering local news, programming, advertising solutions and digital media tools for television, online, mobile, streaming, podcasts and audio devices. We are dynamic, local brands that extend well beyond traditional broadcast television. Our work helps inform, celebrate and knit together the communities we serve.

Headquartered in Detroit, GMG operates in four states: KPRC–Houston, WDIV–Detroit and WSLS–Roanoke (NBC); KSAT–San Antonio (ABC); WKMG–Orlando (CBS); WJXT–Jacksonville (fully local), and WCWJ–Jacksonville (CW). Graham Digital is a digital media and technology development group widely recognized as a top industry innovator. Omne is a leader in results-driven marketing solutions. Social News Desk provides its 2500+ worldwide newsroom-customers with a single dashboard to publish, measure, curate and monetize local news content on social platforms. Website: https://www.grahammedia.com/

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New model home opens at Del Webb Saint Johns

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Thriving new 55+ community offers active-adult lifestyle

ST. JOHNS, Fla. (April 15, 2026) – Del Webb, the nation’s leading builder of active adult communities for those 55 and older, announces the opening of a new model home at Del Webb Saint Johns, the new 55+ community located within The Landings master-planned community in Northwest St. Johns County. Del Webb, the industry leader in developing lifestyle communities that cater to 55+ homebuyers, is known for its livable home designs, magnificent amenities and lifestyle.

“Since opening last year, we have experienced tremendous interest and success at Del Webb Saint Johns,” said Justin Cook, President of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division, Del Webb’s parent company. “As our new model demonstrates, our signature home designs offer great appeal to 55+ homebuyers who are seeking an active lifestyle in a vibrant community that’s located near St. Johns County beaches, world-class golf courses, upscale shopping and dining, and more.”

The new model showcases the Renown floor plan with more than 2,700 square feet of living space. The one-story home has an open-concept living area with a large gathering room, café and gourmet kitchen overlooking the covered lanai. The Owner's Suite boasts a large walk-in closet. There are two additional bedrooms, a flex room, a convenient laundry room and a three-car garage. Homebuyers may choose from numerous options to personalize the home to suit their lifestyle.

Del Webb Saint Johns is offering stunning 50’ and 65’ homesites with water and preserve views and open-concept, single-family home designs from four consumer-inspired home collections. There are 15 one-and two-story single-family floor plans, ranging in size from 1,600 square feet to more than 3,800 square feet. Del Webb Saint Johns starts in the mid-$400s.

Residents will enjoy a fulfilling active adult lifestyle with an array of diverse amenities currently in progress. Once completed, Del Webb Saint Johns will include a 19,000 square foot amenity center clubhouse with a resort-style pool, a full service restaurant and bar, an innovative fitness center with yoga lawn, indoor golf simulator, pickleball and bocce ball courts, putting green, a community garden, arts and crafts room, dog park, and more. Del Webb Saint Johns’ amenities are reserved for the exclusive use of residents and their guests. A dedicated full-time, on-site Lifestyle Director will create engaging community events, exciting activities and more that help residents connect with others and develop new interests.

Del Webb Saint Johns residents also have access to the indoor and outdoor amenities offered throughout The Landings at Saint Johns including Compass Park, dog parks, hiking trails, onsite RV and boat storage, and more. The Landings at Saint Johns, which offers new single-family homes by Pulte Homes for families of all ages, is zoned for A-rated schools in the St. Johns County Public School District and conveniently located to dining and shopping including a Publix less than two miles away. The community offers easy access to the St. Johns River, golf, area beaches, Historic St. Augustine, Downtown Jacksonville, medical facilities, and more.

Del Webb Saint Johns is located at 91 Skipping Stone Court, Saint Johns, Fla. 32259. Model homes are open daily. Join the VIP list to receive all community updates. To learn more, call or text (904) 293-1191 or visit Del Webb Saint Johns.

Photography:

A new model home has opened at Del Webb Saint Johns, an active adult community.

About Del Webb

Del Webb is a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM). Del Webb is the pioneer in active adult communities and America’s leading builder of new homes designed for pre-retirement and retirees. Del Webb builds consumer inspired homes and communities for active adults ages 55+ who want to continue to explore, grow and learn, socially, physically and intellectually as they look forward to retirement. For more information on Del Webb, visit delwebb.com.

About PulteGroup

PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of America’s largest homebuilding companies with operations in more than 40 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta Homes, American West and John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup’s purpose is building incredible places where people can live their dreams.

For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; pulte.com; centex.com; delwebb.com; divosta.com; jwhomes.com; and americanwesthomes.com. Follow PulteGroup, Inc. on Twitter: @PulteGroupNews.

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Daily’s Commits to 10-Year Signature Storefront Partnership in Junior Achievement of North Florida’s Experiential Learning Center

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla., April 14, 2026 - Junior Achievement of North Florida (JANFL) today announced that Daily’s, operated by First Coast Energy, LLP, has entered into a 10-year agreement to serve as a Signature Storefront Partner in JA BizTown at the future Junior Achievement Experiential Learning Center in Jacksonville.

The long-term commitment - among the most significant and longest-duration corporate investments in the project to date - represents a major investment in the region’s future workforce and reflects Daily’s deep roots in Northeast Florida. Grounded in its guiding principle of “Building a Nicer Community,” the partnership marks an elevated level of support for Junior Achievement and its mission to prepare young people to be confident, capable, and connected as they navigate what’s next.

“Daily’s has been a valued partner for many years, and this commitment reflects a meaningful step forward,” said Shannon Italia, president of Junior Achievement of North Florida. “This is exactly the kind of leadership we need from Jacksonville-based companies as we work to bring the Experiential Learning Center to life. We are incredibly grateful for their belief in our mission and in the potential of the students we serve.”

The Experiential Learning Center will serve as a regional hub for career-connected learning, reaching tens of thousands of students annually through programs like JA BizTown. Inside BizTown, students participate in a fully simulated economy - taking on jobs, managing finances, and making real-world decisions that build foundational skills in financial capability, work readiness, and entrepreneurship.

JANFL leaders say a core priority is ensuring the experience reflects the real-world economy students are growing up in.

“Our vision is for JA BizTown to mirror the Jacksonville business community,” Italia said. “That means bringing together companies and industry sectors that are essential to our region’s economic success - so students can begin building an early understanding of how our local economy works and where they might see themselves in the future.”

As one of the region’s most recognizable consumer brands, Daily’s presence in BizTown will help bring that vision to life - introducing students to a sector that plays a visible and important role in everyday commerce across Northeast Florida.

The partnership is further strengthened by the leadership connection between the organizations. Bobby Price, chief financial officer of First Coast Energy, L.L.P., serves on the Junior Achievement of North Florida Board of Directors. In addition, Aubrey Edge, president and CEO of Daily’s, has been a longtime supporter of Junior Achievement, reflecting a broader commitment to community engagement and student success.

For JANFL, the Daily’s commitment underscores a broader theme emerging across the capital campaign: the importance of local companies stepping forward to help build a transformative community asset.

“Projects like this come to life when local leaders choose to invest in the future of their own community,” Italia said. “Daily’s is setting that example, and we hope others will join them in helping create something truly impactful for Northeast Florida.”

The Experiential Learning Center is designed to expand access to high-quality, experiential education - connecting classroom learning to real-world application and helping students gain the knowledge, confidence, and networks needed to pursue meaningful futures.

To learn more about the Junior Achievement Experiential Learning Center, visit janflelc.org.

About Junior Achievement of North Florida
Junior Achievement of North Florida inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. JA’s hands-on learning experiences focus on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship - helping students build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to pursue choice-filled futures and contribute to a stronger Northeast Florida. For more information, visit janfl.org.

About Daily’s
Daily’s is a privately held, Jacksonville, Florida-based convenience store chain featuring deluxe offerings, made-to-order food, and the best facilities. Their goal is to give customers a nicer convenience store experience. Daily’s Dash, their deli café, features freshly carved, all-natural deli meats and cheeses. Daily’s Dash serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring specialty sandwiches, salads, desserts, soft-serve ice cream, smoothies and coffee drinks. All Daily’s sell high-quality Shell gasoline and are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for their customers’ convenience. Learn more about Daily’s at http://www.dailys.com/.

The Daily’s Foundation and the Community
The Daily’s Foundation supports many charities, contributing millions of dollars over the past 10 years to St. Vincent’s Mobile Health Outreach Ministry, Nemours Children’s Health, K9’s for Warriors, among others. Daily’s Place is Jacksonville’s premier downtown venue for music and entertainment.

PRESS RELEASE: Scenic Jacksonville names Litsa Dawkins new Executive Director

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (April 14, 2026) – Scenic Jacksonville Board President Bill Hoff, Jr. announced today that Litsa Dawkins has been named executive director, succeeding Nancy Powell, who retires on April 17.

“We are very pleased to welcome Litsa to Scenic Jacksonville, where she will work closely with civic, business, city and nonprofit leaders along with grassroots efforts to preserve and enhance the character and beauty of our city. Litsa’s career experience and nonprofit volunteer roles align with our vision to grow the organization’s impact and reflect a strong capacity to advance our mission in both strategic and operational ways. This is a win for our city and its long-term future.”

“I am excited to build upon the great work that started with our founder, Bill Brinton, and accelerated in the past six years under Nancy Powell,” said Dawkins. “Scenic Jacksonville has a talented and passionate Board of Directors, and their long-term efforts have made such a positive impact. As our city grows, I am grateful to have the opportunity to collaborate and advance initiatives aimed at improving our scenic environment of livability, walkability, sustainability and overall quality of life.”

Dawkins brings over a decade of experience across the legal and commercial real estate sectors. In her prior role at NAI Hallmark, she served as Director of Operations, where she led strategic business and people operations, change management, and initiatives that drove organizational effectiveness and community impact.

Her nonprofit experience includes fundraising, event and volunteer initiatives with Dreams Come True, Brooks Foundation, Keep Jacksonville Beautiful, and Public Trust Environmental Legal Institute of Florida. A native of Jacksonville, Dawkins graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Communications.

Litsa began her new role on March 16. She can be reached at litsa@scenicjax.org.

Litsa Dawkins headshot

Copies of press release

ABOUT SCENIC JACKSONVILLE

Scenic Jacksonville, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit advocacy organization working to ensure the city’s natural and built environments continue to be both beautiful and resilient for citizens, businesses, and visitors alike. The organization hosts the annual Great Cities Symposium and Scenic Visions program, and is a founding member of both the Riverfront Parks Now coalition and Jacksonville Climate Coalition.

Focus areas include elevating the design and pedestrian experience of our built environment, streetscapes, parks and public spaces; reducing visual blight from billboards and utilities; protecting and expanding the tree canopy and natural landscapes and advocating for historic preservation and unique neighborhood character.

Learn more at scenicjax.org and follow on Facebook @scenicjacksonville, Instagram @scenicjax or Linked In.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Donates Luminaria proceeds to local charitable organizations

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Atlantic Beach office donates to AB Cares and Boy Scout Troop #15

ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. (April 14, 2026) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty proudly announces the company has donated $7,480 to two charitable organizations – $2,680 to the City of Atlantic Beach - AB Cares and $4,800 to Boy Scout Troop #15 – from all proceeds raised during the 2025 Beaches Luminaria.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty also supported the Jacksonville School for Autism. The school has a program where the school’s students assemble and sell luminaria kits.

Boy Scout Troop #15 has assisted the company with Luminaria kit sales at the Beaches branch office since the event began in 2016. The AB Cares Program helps those served by Atlantic Beach's water and sewer utility who need financial support.

”Our company is enthusiastic about supporting local organizations that make a positive difference in our community,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “We appreciate the assistance we received from our team and the community who helped make our Beaches Luminaria a success.”

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com or FLNetworkRealty.com.

Photography:

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty’s Atlantic Beach office donated all proceeds raised from the 2025 Beaches Luminaria to AB Cares and Boy Scout Troop #15.

Front row from left, Staci Spanos Gibson (Sales Associate, Beaches office), Shonna Menzo (administrator for Beaches Office), Linda Echevarria (City of Atlantic Beach Utility Billing/Customer Service Supervisor)

Middle row from left, Boy Scouts Isaac Curley, Lee Curley and Ronan Curley

Back row from left, Chuck Waller (Boy Scouts Troop Leader), Owen Curley (Boy Scouts Troop Leader) and Lenorae Atter (Managing Broker, Beaches Office)

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is the most dynamic and respected real estate company in Northeast Florida. Founded in 1988 by Chairperson Linda Sherrer and featuring the leadership of President Ann King, the company has a team of more than 500 real estate professionals in 11 offices serving Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Flagler, and Volusia counties in Northeast Florida. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty operates a corporate relocation division, a builder sales division, a commercial division, Florida Network Property Management, Gibraltar Title Services, LLC, Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, and HomeServices Insurance.

In 2025, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty achieved more than $1.6 billion in closed sales. The company ranks as one of the Top 25 companies in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is a wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and the nation’s largest homeownership services company.

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com, flnetworkrealty.com or call (904) 296-6400.

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$1,000 Start-Ups Accepting Application for 7th Annual FREE Training Program for Entrepreneurs

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

$1,000 Start-Ups, Inc. is excited to announce the launch of its 7th Annual Entrepreneurship, Financial Management, and Life Skills Training Program for Entrepreneurs. Applications for the 2026 Cohort are currently being accepted from March 16, 2026, through April 30, 2026.

This comprehensive program is FREE and open to adults of all backgrounds, offering the essential education, support, and practical experience needed to successfully launch a new business or expand an existing one. All business types are encouraged to apply.

Classes will be held virtually via Zoom on Mondays and Thursdays at 6:00 PM, commencing on Monday, May 4, 2026.

The curriculum is led by professional business consultant Leah Ward-Lee, featuring expert guest speakers, and covers critical areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and the practicalities of business operations.

Cohort members who maintain good standing are eligible to receive up to $1,000 in business start-up or growth reimbursements to help kickstart their ventures.

To learn more and apply, visit 1000dollarstartups.org/start

About $1,000 Start-Ups, Inc.:

$1,000 Start-Ups, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic opportunities for individuals from traditionally marginalized or at-risk communities. Our programs in entrepreneurship, financial management, and life skills training empower individuals to build sustainable businesses and achieve financial independence.

To learn more about our mission, programs, or how to become a mentor or sponsor, please visit www.1000dollarstartups.org or follow us on social media @1000dollarstartups.

Film at WJCT Studios Announces Spring 2026 Schedule

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Hollywood classics, independent flicks and documentaries will dazzle audiences while drawing activity into Downtown Jacksonville

April 9, 2026 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media, the independent, community-owned public media organization serving Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, today released the Film at WJCT Studios spring schedule.

The 2025-2026 season is presented by VyStar Credit Union. The film series presents a variety of movies and programs that captivate the imagination, inspire curiosity about the world and deliver unique entertainment at an approachable price point. The series also embraces NT Live screenings, filmed live stage productions from the National Theatre in London.

The spring schedule includes:

? National Theatre Live: All My Sons (April 23): Playwright Arthur Miller’s powerful American classic, captured live from the stage of Old Vic Theatre, stars Bryan Cranston (of “Breaking Bad” fame) as Joe Keller — a successful businessman whose wartime decisions return to haunt his family. As long-buried secrets begin to surface, the Keller household is forced to confront difficult questions about responsibility, loyalty, and the true cost of the American Dream.

? The Paper Bag Plan (May 6): This moving 2025 drama was a favorite on the festival circuit, thanks to an intimate, character-driven plot that explores themes of fathers and sons, identity, resilience and the power of independence.

? Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat (May 20): This captivating documentary examines the intersection of jazz, politics and power struggles in the early 1960s, when Louis Armstrong was sent to Congo to deflect attention from the CIA-backed coup. Directed by Johan Grimonprez and nominated for the 2025 Oscar® for “Best Documentary Feature,” this modern examination of historical events has found resonance with audiences around the globe.

? Singin’ in the Rain (June 10): The beloved 1952 musical comedy has charmed generations of film lovers, thanks to iconic performances by Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds. As Hollywood moves from silent films to “talkies,” a film star faces the prospect of career upheaval — and finds romance in the most unexpected of places.

? Dark Passage (June 16): 1947, film noir/thriller): This film noir classic tells the tale of a wrongfully convicted murderer fleeing the law, and a chance encounter with a woman who helps him hide — only to become entangled in a series of events that call his innocence into question. Starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, the film makes creative use of first-person camera work to keep audiences close to the action.

Now in its third year, Film at WJCT Studios has grown into a cultural staple in Downtown Jacksonville’s Sports and Entertainment District. Film screenings draw an average of 150+ attendees, with sellout crowds for recent screenings of No Sleep Til, You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine and the 2026 Oscar® Shorts.

“Film at WJCT Studios offers a refreshing alternative to the at-home streaming and big-box moviegoing experiences. Whether you’re watching a film for the first time or resisting the urge to recite every line, there is power in experiencing powerful storytelling in a community setting. We’ve captured the magic of going to the movies, while giving our attendees an opportunity to support our mission at the same time,” said Circe LeNoble, Director, Grant Management & Community Events, WJCT Public Media.

All movies start at 7 p.m. Tickets for a current WJCT member (supporter at $60 or more per year) are $5 per film and $10 per NT Live screening. Non-member prices are $10 per film and $15 per NT Live screening. All film events have a cash bar available for popcorn, snacks and beverages, and are screened at WJCT Public Media’s studios, located at 100 Festival Park Avenue in Downtown Jacksonville, Fla.

Additional titles will be added throughout the year. The Film at WJCT Studios series encourages the community to submit titles for consideration a wjct.org/film.

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About WJCT Public Media
WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on X/Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

Registration opens for Jumbo Shrimp Youth Baseball Clinics

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Clinics run from 9 a.m.-noon on June 25-26, July 28-29; children 7-14 can receive instruction from Jumbo Shrimp players, coaches

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are offering young fans of Crustacean Nation the chance to learn the fundamentals of baseball from the club’s players and coaches in a fun environment. The club’s Youth Baseball Clinics will run from 9 a.m.-noon on June 25 & 26, as well as July 28 & 29 at VyStar Ballpark. Arrival time begins at 8:30 a.m.

Jumbo Shrimp players, members of the coaching staff and local college players will teach children ages 7-14 right on the field of VyStar Ballpark. Campers will be served lunch daily upon the conclusion of camp. Registration also includes two field reserved tickets to a game (Friday, June 26 for the June 25-26 clinic; Wednesday, July 29 for the July 28-29 clinic) as well as two undated field reserved ticket vouchers for any 2026 home game.

Each clinic costs $240 per camper. Early Bird Pricing (by April 19 for the June 25-26 clinic; by May 22 for the July 28-29 clinic) saves $25 per camper.

Camp size is limited. Registration is available by clicking here.

Campers are instructed to bring their own hats, gloves, bats, personal water bottles and flat tennis shoes – no cleats will be accepted.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are the Triple-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins and compete in the International League. The 2025 International League and Triple-A National Champions, the Jumbo Shrimp call VyStar Ballpark home for baseball but also a wide variety of additional community focused events with a goal of providing Affordable, Family, FUN to Northeast Florida. Winners of many marketing and sales awards and recognition since the team was rebranded prior to the 2017 season, the Jumbo Shrimp continually lead the state of Florida in attendance across all minor league professional sports organizations.

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Gateway Jax Signs Agreement with Marriott International and The Indigo Road Hospitality Group for Hotel Merrydelle – Downtown Jacksonville’s First Lifestyle Hotel

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Developer to artfully reimagine historic Ambassador Hotel building to join Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio Hotels brand

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –– April 9, 2026 –– Gateway Jax, a leading developer in Jacksonville's urban core, today announced a signed agreement with Marriott International and The Indigo Road Hospitality Group to open Hotel Merrydelle, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel. Formerly the Ambassador Hotel, the building is set to undergo a transformative renovation as part of Gateway Jax’s development of Pearl Square.

The Tribute Portfolio Hotel brand portfolio represents a collection of independent boutique hotels that showcase unique design, create spaces and experiences that connect guests to the surrounding community, and focus on unmatched, sincere service. Hotel Merrydelle is slated to be Downtown Jacksonville’s first lifestyle hotel.

The Indigo Road Hospitality Group will manage the 109-key boutique hotel and its culinary program. The renovation plans to reorient the hotel’s main entry to its original Church Street location, integrating the hotel with adjacent gathering spaces, including Porter House Lawn and Garden and Klutho’s Alley: offering guests direct access to an evolving, vibrant and walkable neighborhood within Downtown.

This new name honors Merrydelle Hoyt, and marks the next phase for the historic property located at 310 West Church Street. Hoyt was one of the four visionary founders of the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society: the group whose efforts led to what is now the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville. Hoyt believed in the importance of beauty to society, and that it belonged in the public square where everyone had access. The decision to celebrate her impact underscores the project's commitment to celebrating Jacksonville’s unique cultural heritage.

Originally opened in 1924 as luxury apartments, the building earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Although the structure remains sound, it has been vacant for decades. Gateway Jax will blend the building's rich history with fresh, modern sophistication, preserving many of the original facade details while thoughtfully updating the remaining space with transitional design. From the inviting lobby with works by local artists on display, to a buzzing counter for coffee, fresh pastries and conversation, the hotel’s public spaces will serve as energetic places of connection for overnight guests and daytime visitors alike.

"The decision to name the hotel ‘Merrydelle’ is a direct tribute to a true Jacksonville visionary," said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax. "Merrydelle Hoyt, an artist who brought her expansive vision from New York to the South, saw the opportunity to expand minds through art. Hotel Merrydelle aims to capture that same spirit — a destination that will provide respite and inspiration in the heart of Pearl Square.”

Renowned hospitality expert Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, will expand his acclaimed Atlanta restaurant, Colletta, to the property. Colletta, the Italian word for “collection,” will seat 120 guests in an intimate setting, and feature a seasonal menu of Italian-American favorites. Offerings will include wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta and antipasti. A “for the table” chef-curated, family-style dining experience will also be available alongside a beverage menu of spritzes, Italian wines and seasonally-inspired cocktails.

“Hotel Merrydelle will be a place where people naturally come together as Downtown Jacksonville transforms into a vibrant, community-focused neighborhood,” says Palmer. “We are excited to be a part of this project - not only offering a welcoming destination for visitors, but a place where locals can connect over shared meals.”

Hotel Merrydelle will bring an elevated hospitality experience to Pearl Square, Gateway Jax’s nine-block, mixed-use neighborhood. Hotel guests will have all of the neighborhood amenities –– including shopping, dining and beautiful public spaces — at their doorstep.

Upon full buildout, Pearl Square plans to include 1,250 new residential units; approximately 200,000 square feet of retail space anchored by Publix; vibrant new public spaces, including widened and shaded sidewalks; lush public park spaces; and a signature curbless street with abundant outdoor dining opportunities.

The $50 million renovation will begin this spring. Campo Architecture & Interior Design will serve as the lead architect, bringing their expertise in historic hotel renovation to the project. Jacksonville-based Skiles Engineering and Avant Construction have also been selected for the project team. Hotel Merrydelle is anticipated to welcome guests in 2027.

To stay up to date on Pearl Square’s growth, visit pearlsquare.com.

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About Gateway Jax

Gateway Jax is a Jacksonville-based investment and development firm. Founded in 2022, its leadership brings decades of experience in urban real estate development across North America, focusing on developing dynamic, interconnected, and vibrant projects in walkable, mixed-use environments.

Gateway Jax is committed to working in collaboration with residents and communities to build future-forward ways of working, living and playing. Learn more at gatewayjax.com.

Carnival 'Fun-ternship' Returns Following Successful Debut

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Program to Give Youth Across Six Homeport Cities Exposure to Careers in Travel and Hospitality

Carnival Cruise Line is kicking off its second summer Fun-ternship Program, giving more than 100 high school students ages 17 and older hands-on experience in cruise terminal operations at six U.S. homeports – Baltimore, Tampa, Jacksonville, Norfolk, New York City and Long Beach. The program builds on the success of Summer 2025, when students across those homeports successfully completed the Fun-ternship.

Throughout the eight-week program, students will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Carnival’s cruise operations run at the port while building real-world skills and exploring careers in travel and hospitality. Fun-terns will support embarkation-day operations alongside port services team members, receive hands-on training and mentorship, gain exposure to a range of roles and earn an hourly wage. At the end of the program, everyone will take part in a ship tour and special onboard luncheon celebration with Carnival leaders.

“After seeing the enthusiasm, growth and pride of last year’s Fun-terns, we’re excited to bring this opportunity back and continue helping students develop confidence, leadership skills and real-world experience in an industry that plays an important role in their local economy,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Eligible students living in participating homeport communities are encouraged to apply. Applications are now open through June 8, with a limited number of positions available. The eight-week program will run between June and August, with exact dates varying by homeport city. Interested students can click here to learn more and apply.

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

Jumbo Shrimp, Aardwolf introduce new Big Shrimpin’ lager

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Club introduces Big Shrimpin’ ticket package for April 15 debut of Crustacean Nation collaboration beer inside VyStar Ballpark; Big Shrimpin’ also available for Bark & Brew on April 19

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp fans will soon be able to sip a brand-new beer in collaboration with one of the top-rated craft breweries in Northeast Florida. The Jumbo Shrimp and Aardwolf Brewing Company unveiled the brand-new Big Shrimpin’ lager, available beginning with the Jumbo Shrimp’s 7:05 p.m. game on Wednesday, April 15 from VyStar Ballpark.

An orange honey lager, Big Shrimpin’ allows fans to step up to the plate for a clean, refreshing lager. Bursting with bright orange zest, a smooth touch of honey sweetness and packed with bold flavor for an easy finish. Big Shrimpin’ is the perfect pairing for nine innings under the Florida sun.

“Crustacean Nation, this pint's for you,” said Aardwolf Brewing Company owner Preben Olsen. “We’re proud to partner with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to bring Big Shrimpin’ Lager to the ballpark. This beer celebrates the fun, flavor, and community that make every game day unforgettable. Looking forward to raising a toast with all of you!”

As part of the unveil of Big Shrimpin’, the Jumbo Shrimp also introduced a special Big Shrimpin’ ticket package for the April 15 debut inside VyStar Ballpark. For just $40, fans receive four dugout reserved tickets, one replica 2025 Triple-A National Championship ring and one Big Shrimpin’ craft beer or soda/water per person. Big Shrimpin’ ticket packages can be purchased via this link.

Big Shrimpin’ will also be available for the club’s first Bark In The Park of 2026 on Sunday, April 19, when fans are invited along with their four-legged friend to join the Jumbo Shrimp for a pregame Bark & Brew. For just $40.75, fans will receive unlimited beer sampling from 11a.m.-1p.m., as well as a ticket to the 2:05 p.m. game. Tickets may be purchased by clicking here and will include the new Big Shrimpin’, as well as beers from other breweries including:

Ruby Beach

Congaree and Penn

Southern Swells

Aardwolf

Veterans

New Belgium

MolsonCoors

Fishweir

Green Room

Coppertail

Boston Beer

Yuengling

Carbliss

Ink Factory

Jumbo Shrimp fans can find Big Shrimpin’ at every concession stand and every bar (draft only at ballpark bars) throughout VyStar Ballpark. It is also available at Aardwolf Brewing Company’s taproom at 1461 Hendricks Ave.

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The Jacksonville Symphony presents the music of The Beatles, Beethoven, Brahms and more this Spring

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (April 6, 2026) — The Jacksonville Symphony continues the 2025/26 Season with a variety of musical experiences in April and May. Movies, classical, pops, jazz, organ and more will take to Jacoby Symphony Hall this Spring. Explore the concerts below and view the rest of the season at JaxSymphony.org.

April 2026 Schedule

Puccini's Opera Tosca | April 10 at 7:30 p.m. and April 12 at 3:00 p.m. A thrilling pace, a deadly love triangle and determination in the face of evil: the perfect recipe for one of the most celebrated operas in history. Acclaimed Metropolitan Opera Stage Director Gregory Keller, Music Director Courtney Lewis and world-class vocalists transform Jacoby Symphony Hall for this powerful production of Tosca. Immerse yourself in Giacomo Puccini’s dramatic arias and soaring orchestral passages as they unfold in a visual and auditory masterpiece. Extraordinary musicianship and captivating 30-foot-tall projections elevate the emotions and grandeur of Puccini's masterpiece to new heights. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/tosca

Twist & Shout: The Music of The Beatles. A Symphonic Experience. | April 17 at 11:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. and April 18 at 7:30 p.m. Celebrate The Beatles’ groundbreaking journey, beginning with their unforgettable debut on the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, and following their rise across the nation. Enjoy early chart-topping hits like “Love Me Do,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “A Hard Day’s Night,” “Yellow Submarine,” “Help!” and many more! Featuring rare, unseen photos from the exclusive Beatles Photo Book Archives, this authentic concert project brings together The Beatles’ iconic music with a dynamic performance by the Jacksonville Symphony. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/twist-and-shout

Miles Davis at 100 | April 19 at 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the legendary Miles Davis as the Jacksonville Symphony honors his 100th birthday in an electrifying tribute. This performance also brings Davis’ groundbreaking sound to life with the rich, soulful tones of trumpet and saxophone. Experience the innovation, energy and cool sophistication that defined his music in an

afternoon filled with unforgettable jazz mastery. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/miles-davis-100

Beethoven’s Fifth | April 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. Courtney Lewis leads a program blending timeless classics with bold new sounds. Wagner’s grand Meistersinger Prelude sets the tone, followed by a highly anticipated world premiere from Anna Clyne called Woman of the Mountain. Ellington’s Celebration infuses jazz energy, leading to Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, one of history’s most iconic and powerful works. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/beethovens-fifth

May 2026 Schedule

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™ in Concert | May 1 and 2 at 7:00 p.m. Learning on his 11th birthday that he is a wizard destined for greatness, Harry leaves for wizarding school for the first time in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™. This concert presents the first movie of the unforgettable series while a live orchestra performs John Williams’ enchanting score. Join us for an evening of music and magic. All characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/harry-potter-sorcerers-stone

Greg Zelek in Concert | May 7 at 6:30 p.m. Greg Zelek returns to the stage for a captivating solo recital that showcases the boundless range of the Bryan Concert Organ. Embark on a journey through diverse musical eras and experience Zelek’s innovative technique and expressive artistry firsthand. As the thrilling finale of the Concert Organ Series, this performance promises to leave a lasting impression! Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/greg-zelek-in-concert

Chicken-Fried Rock: Brooks, Shania, Chesney & McGraw | May 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. Country roots and rock energy collide in a concert celebrating the legendary music that defines American country rock. Chicken-Fried Rock brings you the hits of icons like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and more, all brought to life by star-studded guest vocalists and the Jacksonville Symphony. From ballads you know by heart to their signature anthems, this is the perfect way to kick back and celebrate the legends who made country rock an American classic. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/chicken-fried-rock

Beethoven’s Triple & Brahms | May 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. This concert features the expressive virtuosity of the Junction Trio: Pianist Conrad Tao, Violinist Stefan Jackiw and Cellist Jay Campbell. Tarik O’Regan’s Trances weaves intricate textures and rhythms, while Beethoven’s Triple Concerto blends elegance with dazzling interplay. Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 closes the evening with emotional depth and thrilling intensity. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/beethovens-triple

At the Ballet | May 21 at 6:30 p.m. and May 22 at 11:00 a.m. This concert features the expressive virtuosity of the Junction Trio: Pianist Conrad Tao, Violinist Stefan Jackiw and Cellist Jay Campbell. Tarik O’Regan’s Trances weaves intricate textures and rhythms, while Beethoven’s Triple Concerto blends elegance with dazzling interplay. Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 closes the evening with emotional depth and thrilling intensity. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/at-the-ballet-2026

The Music of Elton John Featuring Michael Cavanaugh | May 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Michael Cavanaugh returns by popular demand for our Terry Family Foundation Pops season finale, delivering an electrifying tribute to the timeless music of Elton John. With his captivating command of the keys and powerhouse vocals, he breathes new life into beloved hits like “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man,” “Bennie and the Jets” and “Candle in the Wind.” Joined by the Jacksonville Symphony, this intimate celebration promises a night of unforgettable music—a perfect curtain call to a season of pure Pops magic. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/music-of-elton-john

Season Finale Rachmaninoff''s Third | June 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m. The season finale features George Li in Rachmaninoff’s exhilarating Piano Concerto No. 3, one of the most intricate, demanding and passionate works in the repertoire. Carlos Simon’s Fate Now Conquers opens the evening with dramatic urgency, leading into Schoenberg’s Transfigured Night, a hauntingly beautiful journey from turmoil to resolution. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/rachmaninoffs-third

About the Jacksonville Symphony The Jacksonville Symphony is Northeast Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 155,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact: Savannah Silliman Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

JDT & FRIENDS - Northeast Florida and New York Dance Companies Come Together for One Show

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

MAY 9, 2026, AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (March 18, 2026) –– Amelia Island Dance Festival (AIDF), Jacksonville Dance Theatre (JDT) and the Florida Theatre are proud to announce JDT & Friends on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. This spectacular concert brings together two critically acclaimed dance companies, Jacksonville Dance Theatre and the Jon Lehrer Dance Company (JLDC), showing exciting, theatrical and compelling new works, highlighting the artistic range and creative vision of both companies.

“Sharing the stage with Jon Lehrer Dance Company is a real honor for us,” said JDT Artistic Director Rebecca R. Levy. “Jon’s work brings such clarity, musicality, and physical intelligence, and I’m equally proud of the incredible artists of JDT. Bringing our two companies together creates a powerful evening of dance for our Jacksonville community.”

JDT & Friends features a dynamic program of works from both companies, showcasing a range of choreographic voices and movement traditions.

Jacksonville Dance Theatre opens with La Folia/The Madness, a striking theme-and-variations work by Artistic Director Rebecca R. Levy, drawn from the historic musical form La Folia. Three women inhabit an undefined space where alliances shift and tensions simmer, navigating power, intimacy, and hierarchy through intricate physical dialogue. Guest choreographer Susan Dodge, a former company member of the Paul Taylor Dance Company and Taylor 2, contributes Tabula Rasa — a piece that examines how one individual can influence and manipulate the group around them. Starting from a blank slate, what begins as openness slowly transforms as control, power, and human vulnerability take shape.

JDT will reprise a 2024 commission by Louis Kavouras, a former principal dancer with the Erick Hawkins Dance Company, called Episodes of Snow. Drawing on the breath-driven, fluid movement philosophy of the Hawkins technique, the work reveals a poetic relationship between body, space, and sound. Rounding out JDT’s program is Chasm, a compelling contemporary work by emerging choreographer Jessica Plonka. Structured around the forces of Expectation, Drive, Sacrifice, and Balance, Chasm explores the powerful pull of passion — and the personal cost that often accompanies it — as dancers navigate the human search for purpose.

Jon Lehrer Dance Company brings four works by acclaimed choreographer Jon Lehrer, whose signature movement language blends the fluidity of modern dance with the dynamic energy of jazz. Known for choreography that is both athletic and expressive, Lehrer’s work fuses artistry, momentum, and theatricality — often described as “organically athletic” — balancing virtuosic physicality with humor and humanity. Fuseddelivers a driving combination of classical and contemporary movement, while Volt is a high-octane showcase of the company’s explosive athleticism and precision. Mingos!offers a playful contrast — a raucous, Las Vegas-inspired romp where a flamboyance of flamingos transforms into an ostentation of peacocks. The program closes with Led to Love, set to the iconic music of Led Zeppelin, channeling the raw power of rock into Lehrer’s bold, exhilarating choreography. Together, these works highlight the inventive, entertaining, and physically thrilling style that has earned Lehrer and his company international acclaim.

“A core part of Amelia Island Dance Festival’s mission is connecting artists and audiences across Northeast Florida,” said Susan Dodge, Executive Artistic Director of Amelia Island Dance Festival. “Bringing Jon Lehrer Dance Company together with Jacksonville Dance Theatre at the Florida Theatre creates a rare opportunity for our community to experience nationally recognized artists alongside the incredible talent we have right here at home.”

A special VIP reception will be held before the performance at 3 p.m. in the Florida Theatre’s PNC Lounge. For $15, guests can enjoy a complimentary drink, light bites, and cash bar while mingling with other dance enthusiasts.

Tickets are on sale now at floridatheatre.com or by calling the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. General admission is $40, student/military is $25, and groups of 10 or more are $20 each.

Photos and logos are available via DropBox.

Representatives from Amelia Island Dance Festival and Jacksonville Dance Theatre are available for interviews or in-studio performances March 30 - May 7. Jon Lehrer from JLDC will be available for interviews May 4-7.

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About Amelia Island Dance Festival

Founded in 2019, the Amelia Island Dance Festival (AIDF) is a premier annual event celebrating the rich and diverse world of dance against the scenic backdrop of Amelia Island, Florida. The festival brings together esteemed guest artists and educators from across the nation for performances, workshops, and master classes spanning ballet, contemporary, jazz, and traditional folk styles. Open to dancers and audiences of all ages and skill levels, AIDF is a cherished celebration of artistic growth and community. To learn more, visit ameliaislanddancefestival.org.

About Florida Theatre

There is something for everyone at the Florida Theatre. From pop, jazz, rock, comedy, country, and blues to ballet, the historic Florida Theatre annually offers over 200 cultural and entertainment events for every taste and age. For tickets or to learn more about our educational performances for schools, rentals, membership, or the nonprofit corporation that manages this majestic place, please visit us at floridatheatre.com.

About Jacksonville Dance Theatre

Founded in 2012, Jacksonville Dance Theatre is a contemporary modern dance company dedicated to creating and promoting excellence in professional dance. Led by Artistic Director Rebecca R. Levy, JDT has produced 14 robust local seasons and toured nationally and internationally. The company is committed to creative innovation, outreach, and dance education, believing in the power of dance to engage and inspire people of all backgrounds. To learn more, visit jacksonvilledancetheatre.org.

About Jon Lehrer Dance Company

Founded in 2007 in Buffalo, NY, Jon Lehrer Dance Company has earned critical acclaim nationally and internationally, and now calls NYC home. Under Jon Lehrer's artistic direction, the company's signature style fuses modern and jazz dance into a form best described as "Organically Athletic" — dynamic, athletic, and deeply expressive, while striking a balance between art and entertainment that is accessible to dance experts and newcomers alike. JLDC tours extensively throughout the U.S. and Europe. Learn more at jonlehrerdance.com.

Jacksonville Public Education Fund announces newest Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellows

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

12 educators selected to bring new ideas, real-world learning and stronger classroom supports to students across Duval County

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Twelve educators from across Duval County have been named the newest Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellows for projects designed to bring new ideas, stronger classroom supports and real-world learning to students and schools.

This year’s cohort includes two teacher teams and four individual fellows whose projects connect directly to student needs and will support classrooms, schools and the broader community.

The Fellowship provides funding for innovative professional learning opportunities that go beyond traditional development models – whether through international exchanges, advanced workshops, research programs, or other creative educational pursuits. The goal is to inspire teachers to bring new ideas, global perspectives, and renewed passion back into their classrooms.

A selection committee comprised of the Edelman family, former teachers, and community leaders select the fellows each year. A key component of the fellowship is the impact the experience will have on students, schools, and the broader community.

The newest fellows will pursue projects that span literacy, science, school culture, instructional practice, environmental learning, and outdoor education.

At Arlington Middle School, Monica Gold will study muralism, poetry and visual storytelling traditions in Valparaíso, Chile, to build literacy supports for multilingual newcomer students and create classroom resources that help make academic content more accessible.

Chaffee Trail Elementary School teachers Faye Hunt, Kelly Maxwell, and Christina Oxendine will support the development of an outdoor learning environment centered on agriscience, weather, sustainability and hands-on science, helping students learn in nature through real-world observation and inquiry.

At Duncan Fletcher Middle School, Patrick Kyne will explore volcanic and geologic activity in Hawaii to deepen his knowledge of earth science and bring vivid, real-world examples to lessons on plate tectonics and volcanism.

At Jean Ribault High School, Mari Richardson, Ashley Cozad, Victoria Nolen, Stephanie Parks, and William Griffin will attend the 2026 Model Schools Conference to bring back research-based strategies that support student engagement, stronger school culture and aligned instructional practices.

At Sabal Palm Elementary School, Nick Nelson will participate in an explicit instruction Training of Trainers with Dr. Anita Archer to strengthen teacher confidence, support colleagues through coaching and improve consistency in classroom instruction.

River City Science Innovation teacher Kari Houston will travel to Belize to study coastal ecosystems and invasive species, using that learning to create cross-curricular math and science lessons that help students connect global environmental issues to Jacksonville’s own waterways and coastline.

“These fellowships honor educators who are deeply committed to their students and willing to keep learning in ways that make their teaching even stronger,” said Cindy Edelman, a former art history educator who has been deeply involved with JPEF since its founding and who chaired its Board of Directors in 2012 and 2013. “What makes this program so meaningful is that each fellowship begins with a teacher’s idea, then grows into something that benefits students, schools and the wider community.”

“Each year, these fellows show what is possible when educators are trusted to lead with creativity, expertise, and purpose,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, president of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. “Their projects reflect the many ways great teaching can open doors for students, through stronger literacy, deeper engagement, clearer instruction, and learning that feels connected to the world around them.”

The Fellowship is administered by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund and supported by a permanent fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.

About JPEF

The Jacksonville Public Education Fund believes every student should graduate high school inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life. JPEF serves as a bridge in support of public education, activating community support, connecting partners, and advancing effective ideas for the success of all students. For more information: www.jaxpef.org.

LS3P Celebrates Senior Housing News “CCRC of the Year” Recognition for Hayes Barton Place

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

March 17, 2026– Jacksonville, FL

Brief: Award honors excellence in continuing care retirement community design; LS3P provided architecture and interior design.

With a growing focus on senior living design across Northeast Florida, LS3P’s Jacksonville team is celebrating national recognition for Hayes Barton Place, which was named “CCRC of the Year” by Senior Housing News as part of its 2025 Architecture & Design Awards. LS3P served as architect and interior designer for the award-winning continuing care retirement community.

Located in Raleigh, NC, Hayes Barton Place was designed as a walkable, community-connected CCRC that blends local character with modern senior living. Inspired by the surrounding historic neighborhoods, the community features red brick façades, gabled roofs, and light-filled interiors that reflect classic Georgian architecture while supporting contemporary lifestyles.

The project was developed in partnership with Liberty Senior Living following a long-term planning effort focused on delivering high-quality senior living in an established urban setting. Hayes Barton Place received first-place honors in the Best CCRC category for its hospitality-forward approach, wellness-oriented amenities, and adaptability across the continuum of care.

“From our Jacksonville office, we’re seeing strong interest in senior living communities that feel connected to their surroundings,” said Tom Norman, Jacksonville Office Leader at LS3P. “Hayes Barton Place shows how design rooted in local character can create welcoming, adaptable environments that support residents over time.

Design strategies include open layouts, strong indoor-outdoor connections, intuitive wayfinding, and interiors that emphasize natural light and a welcoming, residential feel—elements increasingly shaping senior living communities nationwide.

Project at a Glance

Project: Hayes Barton Place (Continuing Care Retirement Community)
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
LS3P Services: Architecture + Interior Design
Recognition: Best CCRC of 2025: Local Charm Meets Senior Living - Senior Housing News

Morgan Thomas

Senior Marketing Specialist

2025-2026 SMPS Research Triangle Co-Director of Events

Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Announces 49th Annual Arts Awards powered by Decca Live

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Artists, nonprofits, businesses and philanthropists to be celebrated on May 9

Jacksonville, Fla. – March 17, 2026 – The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville (CCGJ) will host its 49th Annual Arts Awards powered by Decca Live on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Decca Live. The highly anticipated event honors individuals, organizations and philanthropists that fuel Jacksonville’s creative economy.

CCGJ announced this year’s award winners today, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the city’s vibrant arts and culture landscape, shaping Jacksonville as a premier destination for quality of life, tourism and economic development.

This year’s theme, Neon Noir, celebrates the people and organizations who ignite the way for the creative sector. Driving the city forward, these destination builders are leaving an effervescent glow long after the awards end. True to its mission, CCGJ’s role as the City of Jacksonville’s legislated leading Local Arts Agency (LAA) is to champion the sector through community-driven programs while providing the platform to elevate broadly, collaboratively and intentionally. This is exemplified in the community nominated and selected process for the 2026 Arts Awards winners, where CCGJ becomes the platform to elevate the city’s choice.

“For nearly five decades, the Arts Awards have recognized creative leaders, cultural catalysts and artistic innovators who help define Jacksonville’s vibrant creative sector,” said Diana Donovan, Executive Director of the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville. “We are honored to recognize this year’s award winners and to champion a sector that strengthens quality of life, drives economic impact, fuels destination building and positions Greater Jacksonville as a dynamic place to live, work and visit.”

“Decca Live is proud to partner with the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville as the presenting sponsor for the 49th Annual Arts Awards powered by Decca Live,” said Decca Live's Evan Rajta. “We’re excited to host this celebration of the artists and cultural leaders shaping Jacksonville and to welcome the community into downtown for a dynamic evening that champions the creativity and cultural energy that make our city thrive.”

The 2026 winners in each of the eight categories are:

Art Educator, which honors an individual who demonstrates dedication to enriching their students with a passion for the arts: Doris McNeill
Art of Giving, which honors an individual or couple who stewards their resources to fund, support and sustain arts and culture programs: Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi
Art Innovator, which honors an individual who creates new and innovative ideas to benefit the community: Willie Evans Jr.
Community Impact, which honors an individual or organization who has a record of visible transformational results that are evident within their community, and a commitment to impacting others’ lives: Kady Yellow
Robert Arleigh White Award for Advocacy, which honors an individual who fosters an environment of educating and learning of the benefits of the arts: Darren Dailey
Small Business of the Year, which honors an organization that has fewer than 100 employees and graciously gives support to arts and cultural programs and organizations despite its size: LOL JAX Film Festival
Corporate Business of the Year, which honors a business that graciously gives support to arts and cultural programs and organizations: GFWC Jacksonville Beaches Woman’s Club
Helen Lane Founders Award, which honors a leader who integrates arts and culture into everyday life within their community: Kandice Clark

The Arts Awards is the CCGJ’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting our nonprofit, growing regranting efforts and responsive funding that fuels artists and organizations. As the region’s leading regranting agency for arts and culture, CCGJ returns an average of 92 cents of every dollar back to support the local arts and culture sector. This investment generates a strong return by fueling Jacksonville’s creative economy and benefiting multiple sectors across the city.

Not a gala. An experience. The 49th Annual Arts Awards powered by Decca Live, will be a bold, multi-level experience at Decca Live—blending recognition, immersive moments and dynamic networking throughout the evening. Cocktail-style, designed for mingling (limited seating).

Tickets are limited and expected to sell out. For more information and to purchase tickets: culturalcouncil.org/artsawards.

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About the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville:

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville aims to enrich life in Northeast Florida by investing in Arts and Culture. Founded more than 50 years ago, the Cultural Council operates as a private, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and is designated as the official Local Arts Agency (LAA) by ordinance for the City of Jacksonville. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors and provides a range of services to ignite the creative economy and to address the ever-changing needs of the arts and cultural sector and broader community. Learn more at culturalcouncil.org.

Junior Jumbos Crustacean Kids Club membership available now

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Membership includes exclusive parade, autograph experience, ice cream social, hat & tickets

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The most exclusive hangout in Crustacean Nation is back in 2026, as membership is open for Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp fans 12 years & under for the Junior Jumbos Crustacean Kids Club.

For just $55.50 per child, Junior Jumbos receive:

One general admission ticket to every Sunday game home at VyStar Ballpark, plus two bonus games (Opening Day, March 27; Back To School Night; August 1)
Junior Jumbos hat
ID badge
10% discount at the Jumbo Shrimp Souvenir Store
One pregame player autograph session (date to be announced)
One pregame parade (date to be announced)
One pregame ice cream social (date to be announced)

Parents can register their child for the Junior Jumbos Crustacean Kids Club via this link. For questions, please reach out to Jumbo Shrimp community relations coordinator Sydney Ryan at Sydney@jaxshrimp.com or (904) 358-2846 ext. 106.

Season tickets, mini plans, and group outings for the 2026 season are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 for more information.

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Jacksonville Symphony to perform Barber, Mendelssohn and Vaughan Williams under Bellincampi

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (March 12, 2026) — Guest conductor Giordano Bellincampi leads the Jacksonville Symphony and Symphony Chorus in Barber & Mendelssohn on March 27 and 28 at Jacoby Symphony Hall as part of the Florida Blue Classical Series.

Bellincampi, music director of the Auckland Philharmonia and a frequent guest conductor with orchestras across Europe, North America and Australasia, is widely recognized for his interpretations of large-scale symphonic and choral repertoire.

The program opens with Toward the Unknown Region by Ralph Vaughan Williams, a soaring work for chorus and orchestra inspired by Walt Whitman’s poetry, considered to be his first major critical success.

The Symphony’s Concertmaster Adelya Nartadjieva takes center stage as soloist in Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto. The Uzbek-American violinist has performed internationally at venues including Carnegie Hall and the Elbphilharmonie and has earned top prizes at competitions across the United States, Europe and Asia. Known for her expressive artistry and “full and gorgeous tone,” she brings both lyricism and virtuosity to Barber’s concerto, which moves from soaring melodies to a high-energy finale.

The concert also features Symphony No. 3 "Scottish" by Felix Mendelssohn, an evocative symphony inspired by the landscapes and history of Scotland.

Performances take place March 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m. in Jacoby Symphony Hall. Tickets and additionalinformation are available at JaxSymphony.org.

About the Jacksonville Symphony
The Jacksonville Symphony is Northeast Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 155,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact:
Savannah Silliman
Marketing and Public Relations Manager
Jacksonville Symphony
ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

River Hall welcomes Dream Finders Homes to builder team

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Golf course homesites available, two model homes opening soon

ALVA, Fla. (March 12, 2026) – GreenPointe Holdings announces the addition of Dream Finders Homes to its builder team at River Hall, a master-planned club community just minutes from Fort Myers and the Gulf Coast beaches. Dream Finders Homes will offer 95 premium homesites at River Hall, including 31 golf course homesites, further expanding opportunities for homebuyers seeking an active, connected lifestyle.

“I am pleased to welcome Dream Finders Homes to our homebuilder team at River Hall,” said Jim McGowan, Regional President, West Coast Florida, GreenPointe Holdings. “Dream Finders’ reputation for delivering the highest standards in craftsmanship and design aligns seamlessly with the experience and lifestyle we are delivering here. River Hall is an exceptional place to live and continues to attract respected builders who recognize the strength of the Fort Myers market and the enduring appeal of this community.”

Dream Finders Homes is currently constructing two model homes – the Napoli and Ravenna – both scheduled to open Spring 2026. The Napoli is a single-story home features an expansive main living area where the kitchen connects seamlessly to the dining and family room, supporting everyday living and entertaining. The Ravenna blends comfort and functionality in a stylish, single-story layout. The open design includes a large family room, dining area, and a gourmet kitchen with a center island and walk-in pantry. A covered lanai extends the living space outdoors, embracing Southwest Florida’s year-round indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Dream Finders Homes was recognized as the 2025 National Builder of the Year by Builder magazine. The company, headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., designs, builds, and sells single-family homes in high-growth markets in Florida and across the United States. The builder’s new home construction is defined by its unique designs, superior quality materials, strong focus on customer satisfaction and a desire to be the best home builder in America. Dream Finders Homes is the official home builder of the PGA Tour and the Jacksonville Jaguars and is deeply committed to excellence beyond homebuilding and into the communities it serves.

The family of builders at River Hall also includes Lennar and Pulte Homes. River Hall has new single-family homes for families of all types from the $300s to more than $1 million. Model homes are open daily.

Located in the River Shores District east of Fort Myers, River Hall offers new single-family homes with golf course and preserve views within a recreation-focused setting designed for active living. This gated club community features a Davis Love III championship golf course, jogging and biking paths, and an array of thoughtfully curated club amenities. River Hall has casual and fine dining opportunities including the popular Bunker Bar, an open air bar overlooking the pool and a lake with views of the golf course. The Town Hall Amenity Center includes a resort-style lagoon pool with cabanas and athletic center, tennis, pickleball courts and more. A dedicated lifestyle director coordinates events and activities for residents of all ages, fostering connection and community throughout the year.

River Hall is located a short drive from Fort Myers and the area’s Gulf Coast beaches, fishing, outdoor recreation, shopping and dining. To learn more, visit www.HerestoParadise.com.

Photography

Dream Finders Homes has two model homes under construction at River Hall.
Dream Finders Homes is offering thoughtfully designed open-concept floor plans at River Hall.

About GreenPointe Holdings, LLC

GreenPointe Holdings, LLC is a diversified holding company that brings together the necessary disciplines to create sustainable, high-value communities built upon intelligent design principles and solid financial structures.

GreenPointe Holdings was founded by visionary leader Edward E. Burr in 2008 with a charge to create livable communities of lasting value for today's homebuyers. GreenPointe Holdings is led by veterans of land and community development, homebuilding, lifestyle and amenities management, equity and debt financing, and infrastructure development. The combined leadership team has led the master planning and development of more than 80 communities and over 100,000 residential units.

With headquarters in Jacksonville and regional offices throughout Florida, GreenPointe’s current portfolio consists of 20 master-planned communities in Florida, accounting for approximately 27,000 homesites, 2,200 multi-family units and 950,000 square feet of commercial and retail space, with over $1 billion invested to-date. More information is available at www.GreenPointeLLC.com.

GreenPointe is proud to support the Monique Burr Foundation for Children and its mission to protect children by providing comprehensive, evidence-based personal safety programs. For more information, visit www.mbfpreventioneducation.org.

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Scenic Jacksonville welcomes New Board Members and Board Officers

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Florida (March 11, 2026) – Scenic Jacksonville welcomes four new members to its Board of Directors, along with a new Board President and Officers. Through citizen advocacy and civic leadership, the local nonprofit works to enhance the character and beauty of Jacksonville’s natural and built environment — towards its mission of making a long-term positive impact on the everyday lives of its citizens.

New Board Members

Jim Citrano, senior vice president, commercial real estate at Seacoast Bank, also served as Board. Chair for the Downtown Investment Authority and on the Jacksonville Housing Finance Authority. “As a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, I believe that Scenic Jacksonville’s mission is essential and offers a strong framework for helping the city reach its full potential,” noted Citrano.

Ronaldo Horn, chief of recruitment of Jacksonville Fire & Rescue Department, also serves in leadership roles with the Jacksonville Urban League and the Jacksonville Policy Engagement Group. “I subscribe to the goals of Scenic Jacksonville and the pursuit of making Jacksonville a better place to live for everyone,” he said. “Working on public policy, educating the public and relationship building with stakeholders are important ways I hope to contribute to the organization’s success.”

Catherine Duncan, principal architect of LOCI Architects, LLC, served in leadership with AIA Jacksonville Chapter and with the City of St. Augustine’s Historic Architectural Review Board. Duncan says, “I am looking forward to helping Scenic Jacksonville effectively advocate for design excellence in projects that impact the broader community, and to participate in civic discussions about placemaking, design and the interfaces with the natural environment.”

Travis Smith, director of Corporate Engagement for the Year Up United, also recently received a Master in Public Administration degree from the University of North Florida. “I care deeply about the way that the natural and built environments complement each other, and this is a very exciting time in our city,” he notes. “There is so much momentum and great work to be done to ensure that the growth truly creates a more beautiful, livable and aspirational city.”

Board President and Officers for 2026 Term

Bill Hoff, Jr, was appointed President of the organization for the 2026 term. He is joined by Matthew Edelman, treasurer; Susan Grandin, secretary, Wiatt Bowers, first vice president; Oliver Barakat, second vice president, and Tyler Grant, at large. Former president Michael Kirwan resigned from the Board of Directors last August to run for Congress.

Hoff is a community based civic leader who has served in a variety of leadership roles with organizations including Springfield Preservation & Revitalization (SPAR), Jax Chamber Hightower Fellowship, Greenscape of Jacksonville, Leadership Jacksonville, and the City of Jacksonville’s Historic Preservation Commission, among others. “It is a privilege to serve our city and this storied organization in this way, and I look forward to continuing the work of the late Bill Brinton and others who have done so much to improve Jacksonville’s quality of life.

Photos to accompany the press release can be found here.

ABOUT SCENIC JACKSONVILLE

Scenic Jacksonville, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit advocacy organization working to preserve, protect and enhance the character and beauty of Jacksonville's built and natural environemnt. The organization hosts the annual Great Cities Symposium and Scenic Visions program, and is a founding member of both the Riverfront Parks Now coalition and Jacksonville Climate Coalition.

Focus areas include: elevating the design and pedestrian experience of our built environment, streetscapes, parks and public spaces; reducing visual blight from billboards and utilities; protecting and expanding the tree canopy and natural landscapes, and advocating for historic preservation and unique neighborhood character.

Learn more at scenicjax.org and follow on Facebook @scenicjacksonville, Instagram @scenicjax or Linked In.

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SPRINGFIELD RESIDENTIAL REVITALIZATION | MARCH 17, 2026

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL, March 11, 2026 - Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) announces their annual Residential Revitalization recipient in partnership with the 5th Annual NEXGEN Roofing and the NEXGEN Foundation roof donation.

Each year, SPAR partners with a neighbor to revitalize a home in Springfield. This year, the recipient of SPAR’s Residential Revitalization program is the Williams Family. Thanks to a generous donation by NEXGEN Roofing and the NEXGEN Foundation, as well as their suppliers Owens Corning and Suncoast Roofing Supply, the Williams Family will receive a new roof for their historic home.

According to Miss Williams, this donation is more than just a roof. Miss Williams said, “I haven’t had a roof since I moved to this house so this is a God-send.” She continued, “I’ve been trying to get help and this is the help I needed.”

Miss Williams moved into her house in 2004 and worries about how the storms in Florida have affected the roof. This donation will give her some peace of mind. Her historic home was built in 1909. Thanks to the recommendation of a nearby neighbor, SPAR and the Williams Family were able to work with NEXGEN Roofing and the NEXGEN Foundation to receive a new roof donation.

“I’m grateful to the neighbor who referred Miss Williams to SPAR and to Miss Williams for trusting us to work with her on her home. I’m especially grateful to NEXGEN Roofing and the NEXGEN Foundation for making this donation possible. This is a story of generosity and gratitude in Springfield, of neighbors helping neighbors, which is what our community is all about.

NEXGEN Roofing will begin work on the roof on March 17, 2026. The donation represents not only a significant philanthropic contribution by NEXGEN, but a standard for community building in the City of Jacksonville. As Brandon Cornellier, NEXGEN’s Co-Founder and COO, explains, “When we founded NEXGEN Roofing, we committed to growing our impact alongside our business. Our goal isn’t just to lead our industry, but to set the standard for how small businesses give back to the communities that support them. Our partnership with SPAR has become one of the most meaningful and rewarding collaborations in our company’s history, and we look forward to many years of giving back together.”

More information on SPAR’s Residential Revitalization program can be found at sparcouncil.org/residential_revitalization. More information on NEXGEN Roofing and the work of the NEXGEN Foundation can be found at nexgenfl.com/nexgen-foundation.

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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District.

The NEXGEN Foundation is dedicated to making a lasting impact in our communities through a range of academic, humanitarian, and environmental initiatives.

JAX Business Calendar Launches as a Free, Community-Led Platform Connecting Jacksonville’s Business Ecosystem

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — JAX Business Calendar, a free, nonprofit digital platform designed to centralize and amplify business and community events across Northeast Florida, officially launched on January 21, 2026, during the Silicon-Beach.ai Pitch event hosted at the University of North Florida – Coggin College of Business.

The platform offers founders, startups, small business owners, and professionals a single, centralized place to discover business events, educational opportunities, networking gatherings, and ecosystem initiatives happening across the region — at no cost to users or organizers.

The launch marked a major milestone for Jacksonville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, bringing together founders, small business owners, community leaders, and ecosystem builders under one shared mission: making it easier to find the right rooms, the right conversations, and the right connections to grow.

“Jacksonville has an incredibly active business community, but too often people miss opportunities simply because they didn’t know where to look — the information was scattered,” said Florian Vlad, local founder of JAX Business Calendar. “This platform exists to remove friction, spotlight what’s already happening, and help people show up.”

JAX Business Calendar operates as a free, nonprofit, community-driven initiative, guided by a board of advisors made up of respected leaders from across Jacksonville’s business, education, and innovation communities. The platform’s mission is to serve the ecosystem by improving visibility, encouraging collaboration, and supporting inclusive participation in local economic growth.

The platform was built by TwinzAPP Digital LLC, in collaboration with University of North Florida – Coggin College of Business and Panda Technology, reflecting a cross-sector effort between technology builders, educators, and innovators invested in Northeast Florida’s long-term growth.

JAX Business Calendar is now live and publicly accessible at www.jaxbusinesscalendar.com.

About JAX Business Calendar

JAX Business Calendar is a free, nonprofit, community-led platform created to connect Jacksonville’s founders, startups, professionals, and organizations in one shared space. Steered by a board of local advisors, the platform improves access to information and strengthens the region’s business ecosystem.

Media Contact

Florian Vlad
Founder, JAX Business Calendar
florian.vlad@jaxbusinesscalendar.com
239-302-9022

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital Earns Patient Safety Excellence Award from Healthgrades

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Florida – March 10, 2026 – HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, as a part of HCA Healthcare, today announced that it has received a 2026 Patient Safety Excellence Award from Healthgrades for its commitment to safe, patient-centered care. This recognition is given to the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for patient safety.

“We are incredibly proud of our physicians, nurses and colleagues whose unwavering commitment to clinical excellence and patient safety makes recognitions like this possible,” said Chad Patrick, CEO of HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. “Being named among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for patient safety reflects the culture of accountability, compassion and continuous improvement that defines our hospital. Every day, our teams work diligently to ensure that the patients and families who entrust us with their care receive safe, high-quality treatment close to home.”

Patient Safety Excellence Awards are based exclusively on patient outcomes. Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted complication and mortality rates from approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide to determine this year’s list.

Earlier this year, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital was also named on the 2026 Healthgrades America’s 100 Best Hospitals list for being within the top 2% of hospitals in the country for clinical excellence. Also based on patient outcomes, these lists recognize superior performance in providing care for conditions and procedures across multiple specialty lines and areas.

HCA Healthcare supports a culture in which patient safety is embedded in everyday care delivery. For more than a decade, the organization has operated a federally listed Patient Safety Organization (PSO) that partners with hospitals to strengthen clinical processes, advance evidence-based safety practices and facilitate enterprise-wide learning. Insights gained across facilities are systematically shared to promote consistency, advance adoption of proven practices and enhance the reliability of care across the organization.

In 2024, HCA Healthcare added to this work through a structured implementation of the National Action Plan to Advance Patient Safety. Multidisciplinary teams of hospital leaders, physicians and frontline clinicians completed facility-level assessments of safety culture and patient safety systems and used that data to align local improvement efforts with enterprise goals, reinforce capability and sustain progress toward key safety priorities.

HCA Healthcare has a long history of advancing patient safety through collaboration with leading public and private institutions. Through research initiatives like REDUCE MRSA, ABATE, Swap Out, CLUSTER and INSPIRE the organization continues to contribute to evidence-based practices that advance infection prevention and strengthen the safety and reliability of care for patients.

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About HCA Florida Healthcare in Jacksonville

HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is a family of more than 500 affiliated sites of care. It is a collaborative network connecting approximately 11,000 physicians, 49 hospitals, over 50 urgent care centers and more than 350 physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. In Jacksonville, HCA Florida Healthcare Memorial Hospital and HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital are part of this network of personalized care. Both are full service, acute care, Level II trauma hospitals fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and both are ranked as one of the best hospitals in the country for heart, lung, and surgical care. For more information about services, facilities and physicians, please visit www.hcafloridahealthcare.com.

About Healthgrades

Healthgrades is dedicated to empowering meaningful connections between patients, doctors, and hospitals. As the #1 platform for finding a doctor and a leader in healthcare transparency, we help millions of consumers each month find and schedule appointments with their healthcare professional of choice and prepare for their appointments with best-in-class, treatment-focused content.

For over 20 years, our health system, group practice, and life sciences marketing solutions have helped our partners reach and engage consumers on their way to the doctor.

Healthgrades is part of RVO Health, the largest consumer health and wellness platform. RVOH’s audience across its brand portfolio, including Healthgrades, Healthline, Medical News Today, Greatist, Psych Central, and Bezzy, touches every part of the health and wellness journey. RVO Health helps more than 70 million unique visitors live their strongest and healthiest lives each month.

EDDIE B BRINGS HIS “TEACHERS ONLY” COMEDY TO THE FLORIDA THEATRE ON NOVEMBER 14, 2026

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (March 10, 2026) – The Florida Theatre and AEG are proud to announce Eddie B on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

Eddie B soared to new heights by creating his own opportunity, starting with his series of comical videos titled What Teachers Really Want to Say. In a matter of hours, those videos sparked the attention of educators all over the country when they realized that they were not alone and finally had someone to joke about the things they were reluctant to say out loud.

Shortly after, Eddie decided to take his videos to the stage, selling out comedy clubs, theaters, and arenas with his Teachers Only Comedy Tour and the I’m Already Professionally Developed Tour. When the worldwide pandemic made it impossible for Eddie to see his fans in person, he began performing his Teachers Only comedy virtually! Now that things are back to normal, Eddie B is ready to give educators more of his unfiltered comedy, beginning with his Teachers Only Summer Break Tour!

Eddie B has established himself as the official voice of teachers across the globe. Educators from America to Africa, Dallas to Dubai, New York to New Delhi (and beyond) are getting a lesson in the funniest ways to express their worst frustrations, and they are loving every second of Eddie B’s uncensored, raw, and hysterically realistic portrayal of a teacher’s hectic life, from the point of view of an actual teacher!

To learn more, visit https://www.eddiebcomedy.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

BAD CO. LEGACY TO ROCK THE FLORIDA THEATRE ON AUGUST 21, 2026

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

ACKSONVILLE, FL (March 9, 2026) – The Florida Theatre is proud to announce Bad Co. Legacy with singer Robert Hart and guitarist Dave “Bucket” Colwell on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

Former Bad Co. singer, Robert Hart, and guitarist Dave “Bucket” Colwell, will take you on an amazing Rock & Roll journey with songs from the legendary band. Bad Co. was formed in 1973 and became one of the most successful rock bands of the 1970s.

For seven years, Robert Hart was the lead singer of Bad Co. in its classic rock era. Hart was part of Bad Co. during the 1990s and contributed to albums like Company of Strangers and Stories Told and Untold. He has also played for many years with The Jones Gang with Kenny Jones of The Faces, and currently with Manfred Mann’s Earthband.

Dave “Bucket” Colwell, guitarist, spent 12 years in Bad Co., was a member of Humble Pie for several years, recording, co-writing, and producing the album Back on Track, The Jones Gang, ASAP, and many other bands.

Fans can expect many of the classic songs spanning Bad Company’s repertoire: “Ready for Love,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Rock and Roll Fantasy,” “Shooting Star,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and the list goes on! It promises to be a night to remember!

To learn more, visit https://badcolegacy.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Earns Great Place To Work? Certification for Second Consecutive Year

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

March 5, 2026 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – Community Hospice & Palliative Care proudly announces it has once again been certified by Great Place To Work?, marking back-to-back years receiving this prestigious national recognition and reinforcing the organization’s continued commitment to creating an exceptional workplace culture for its team members.

The certification is based entirely on employee feedback, reflecting the experiences and perspectives of those who help deliver compassionate care across the communities served by Community Hospice & Palliative Care. This year, 87 percent of employees surveyed affirmed that Community Hospice & Palliative Care is a great place to work, highlighting a strong culture built on respect, collaboration, trust and purpose.

“We are honored to be recognized again as a Great Place To Work,” said Phillip Ward, President and CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. “Our mission begins with our people. When employees feel supported, valued, and connected to meaningful work, they are empowered to provide the compassionate, high-quality care our patients and families deserve every day. This certification reflects the dedication, passion and teamwork that define our organization.”

Great Place To Work certification is awarded through a rigorous evaluation process that measures employee sentiment across key areas, including credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie. Earning the certification for a second consecutive year demonstrates Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s sustained focus on fostering a positive, inclusive and supportive environment where employees can thrive professionally and personally.

For more than 45 years, Community Hospice & Palliative Care has been a trusted leader in hospice and palliative care, providing comfort, dignity and support to individuals and families facing advanced illness. The organization’s commitment to workplace excellence reflects its belief that exceptional patient care begins with a strong and engaged workforce.

As a certified™ Great Place To Work organization, Community Hospice & Palliative Care continues to attract top talent, strengthen its culture of compassion and collaboration and advance its mission of caring for the community with excellence.

For more information about Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit www.communityhospice.com.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Jacksonville Symphony Gala Raises Record-Breaking $1.14 Million for Music Education and Community Impact Programs

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (March 5, 2026) – The Jacksonville Symphony Gala set a new benchmark on February 28, 2026, raising a record $1.14 million to support its music education and community impact programs. The total was revealed on stage by Gala Emcee and Auctioneer Magen McRoberts during a Broadway-inspired concert led by Music Director Courtney Lewis.

The evening featured a dinner on the Moran Theater stage presented by Chef’s Garden, a luxury auction and a special performance by the Jacksonville Symphony, Broadway stars Meghan Picerno and Jay Armstrong Johnson in Jacoby Symphony Hall, followed by an exclusive after-party. Ann Hicks, a longtime advocate for the arts and dedicated supporter of the Jacksonville Symphony, served as the gala’s honorary chair, lending her influence and vision to the event’s success.

“I’m honored to support the Symphony in its mission to bring this glorious music to our community and to the next generation of artists and music lovers,” said Ann Hicks.

“We are deeply grateful for the generosity and support at this year’s gala,” said Steven B. Libman, president and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony. “Ann’s dedication to the arts and belief in the transformative power of music is central to our work. The funds raised will allow us to continue providing music education to more than 60,000 students annually and to inspire the next generation of musicians and arts enthusiasts.”

The Symphony Gala Committee co-chairs were Ryan Schwartz and Sally and Ross Singletary. Their leadership and commitment to the Symphony and Northeast Florida’s cultural vitality were instrumental in making the evening a success.

“We are proud to support the Symphony and celebrate this cultural jewel of our city,” said Sally and Ross Singletary. Schwartz added, “The Symphony’s mission is more important now than ever, and I’m honored to be part of such a meaningful and successful event.”

Title sponsor Arcus Capital Partners and all gala attendees also contributed to the evening’s achievements.

The Symphony Gala underscores the Jacksonville Symphony’s role as a cultural cornerstone of Northeast Florida, combining world-class performances with vital educational and community programs that reach tens of thousands of students and families each year.

About the Jacksonville Symphony
The Jacksonville Symphony is Northeast Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 155,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact:
Savannah Silliman

Marketing and Public Relations Manager

Jacksonville Symphony

352-207-0719

ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

City Rescue Mission Celebrates 80 Years of Impact with Anniversary Dinner and a Dramatic Musical Performance by its residents:

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Deep Roots. Bold Tomorrow.

Jacksonville, FL — City Rescue Mission will celebrate 80 years of serving the Jacksonville community at its 80th Anniversary Dinner, honoring eight decades of hope, restoration, and life transformation for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness and addiction. The event will be held on May 7th at the Southbank Hotel, starting at 6pm. The evening will reflect on the Mission’s legacy, while casting vision for the future under the theme: Deep Roots. Bold Tomorrow.

This year’s celebration will feature the debut of City Rescue Mission’s own Drama Troupe and Choir. Debuting a powerful spoken word performance by its residents. Highlighting their testimonies of growth, healing, and transformation. The evening will also mark the official unveiling of City Rescue Mission’s new children’s book, Destiny’s Diary, a moving story of one family’s journey through homelessness.

Tickets and event sponsorship opportunities are currently available by contacting the Director of Development at (904) 421-5147. Proceeds from the event directly support the Mission’s programs and services for the men, women, and children it serves each day.

Florida Blue Foundation Invests $3.5 Million to Address Florida’s Maternal Health Crisis

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Nonprofit foundation also now accepting applications for its food security grant program

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – [March 4, 2026] – To address Florida’s maternal health crisis, the Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue and part of the GuideWell portfolio of companies, is investing $3.5 millionto expand access to doula care, in-home visits, mental health services, and chronic condition support for mothers and families statewide.

Why it matters: High rates of preterm birth and infant mortality across Florida, particularly among women with chronic conditions and limited access to care, underscore the need for stronger, community-based maternal health support to improve outcomes for mothers and babies.

By the numbers:

Florida ranks 32nd of 52 (includes all states, DC, and Puerto Rico) for preterm births with a rate of 10.7%.
$3.5 million invested to address Florida’s maternal health crisis
9 nonprofit programs funded through multi-year grants
Statewide reach, including rural and under-resourced communities
2 focus areas: chronic conditions in pregnancy and maternal mental health

The details: This latest round of grants supports organizations improving maternal health outcomes for women with chronic conditions, as well as those that provide perinatal and postpartum mental health services.

“These organizations are meeting mothers where they are — in clinics, in their homes, in early learning centers, and in places that are comfortable and convenient for them,” said Susan Towler, executive director of Florida Blue Foundation. “Every program we support helps close gaps in access, improve maternal and infant health outcomes, and strengthen families across the state.”

2026 Maternal Health Grant Recipients

Perinatal and Postpartum Maternal Mental Health Support:

University of North Florida Foundation (Northeast Florida) — The Osprey Psych Telehealth Maternal Mental Health Initiative expands access to perinatal and postpartum behavioral health care through telehealth, bilingual technology support, and AI enabled tools.

Capital Area Healthy Start Coalition (Northwest Florida) — The C.O.A.S.T. Through Pregnancy program uses perinatal navigators and licensed clinical social workers to coordinate medical, mental health, and social services for mothers.

Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition (Treasure Coast) — The Postpartum & Bereavement Community Doula Program offers emotional, mental health, and practical support to families navigating postpartum recovery or loss.

Primary Care Medical Services of Poinciana / Osceola Community Health Services (Central Florida) — The Maternal Mental Health Integration Program embeds mental health screening, counseling, and peer support into routine OB/GYN care to strengthen perinatal and postpartum outcomes in Osceola County.

The Children’s Movement of Florida (Statewide) — The Early Motherhood Support Groups program creates safe, peer supported spaces in early learning centers where pregnant women and new mothers can strengthen their mental well-being.

Improving Maternal Health Outcomes for Chronic Conditions:

Lakeland Regional Medical Center (Central/West Florida) — The Innovative Support for Maternal Health Outcomes program provides nurse navigation, doula support, education, and monitoring tools to help high-risk pregnant women manage chronic conditions and reduce complications.-risk pregnant women manage chronic conditions and reduce complications.

March of Dimes – South Florida Chapter (South Florida) — The Green Cars for Kids initiative provides free electric transportation to prenatal, postpartum, and specialty care appointments, helping mothers with chronic conditions maintain consistent care.

Pasco Kids First (West Florida) — The Thrive Well: Maternal Health & Wellness program expands home visiting services to include maternal health monitoring, chronic condition education, and referrals for at-risk mothers.

Collier Health Services / Healthcare Network of SWFL (Southwest Florida) — The Transitions of Care for High-Risk Pregnancies program coordinates care across home, hospital, and postpartum settings using monitoring, follow-up support, and AI enabled nutrition tools.

“To truly make progress for the youngest Floridians, we must impact the adults — in the family and community — who help shape children’s lives," said Madeleine Thakur, president & CEO of The Children’s Movement of Florida. “We are grateful for the support from Florida Blue Foundation, which is helping to bridge gaps in care and services for new mothers and families.”

These programs will serve families across Florida, including those living in rural areas and in communities with limited access to maternal health services and support.

Food Security Grant Program Applications also now open

In addition to announcing maternal health funding, the Florida Blue Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 funding cycle of its food security grant program. The Foundation will award approximately $3.2 million in grants and is seeking proposals that address the following topic areas:

Focus 1: Transforming Health through Food

Healthy eating is a crucial component of overall well-being, and access to nutritious food can play a significant role in preventing and managing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity which are prevalent in Florida. This funding focus supports programs that apply Food is Medicine principles to deliver effective interventions that improve health outcomes and quality of life. Funding will support initiatives that provide nutrition prescriptions, education, counseling, and medical nutrition therapy to individuals and communities. Programs that provide fresh produce and healthy food to support lifestyle changes and improve overall community well-being are a priority. Partnerships between health care providers, grocery stores, food banks, and community organizations that address food insecurity as a social determinant of health are encouraged.

Focus 2: Growing Access, Growing Capacity

Vulnerable populations in Florida, including children, families, and seniors, often face significant barriers to accessing healthy food, particularly in food desert communities. This funding focus supports organizations that provide essential services to address food access gaps and promote community resilience. Funding will support food distribution programs, including food banks, delivery services, pantries, and mobile markets, as well as urban agriculture and collaborative solutions that increase access to nutritious food. Effective organizations with strong foundations are best positioned to drive lasting change; therefore, support for operational needs is a critical component of this funding focus, enabling them to sustain and grow their efforts over time.

The application window closes on April 22 and details are available via this food security grant application link.

Go deeper: To learn more about Florida Blue Foundation's impact across the state, including its commitment to improving maternal health outcomes, read GuideWell's latest?impact report.

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About Florida Blue Foundation

Florida Blue Foundation enables healthy communities by making grants, building coalitions, and embracing solutions that create a meaningful impact in communities across the state. An average of 10 million Floridians receive services each year as a result of its community investments. Founded in 2001, Florida Blue Foundation is committed to improving health by impacting food security, advancing mental well-being, growing healthy communities, and addressing health disparities.?Florida Blue Foundation is a trade name of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Foundation, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, please visit?www.FloridaBlueFoundation.com.

About Florida Blue

Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, Florida Blue is the leading health insurer in Florida, and part of GuideWell, a not-for-profit health services company. Florida Blue offers a range of health plans and personalized care programs for individuals, families, businesses of all sizes, and Medicare beneficiaries. For over 80 years, the organization has been member centric and committed to making health care as accessible and affordable as possible. Serving more than six million members across all 67 Florida counties, Florida Blue has more than 8,000 employees and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., is owned by its policyholders, and is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

ALEIZHA BATSON | Senior Regional Communications Lead, North Florida

aleizha.batson@bcbsfl.com | 904-535-8711 mobile

www.FloridaBlue.com

PulteGroup expands Northeast Florida presence with Seminole Palms and Lakeview Estates coming soon to Palm Coast

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

With Del Webb Flagler Beach, PulteGroup has three communities in Flagler County

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (March 4, 2026) – The Northeast Florida Division of PulteGroup, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, announces two new single-family home communities coming soon to Palm Coast in Flagler County.

Seminole Palms is a master-planned community with resort-style amenities, nature trails, and new single-family homes on 40’ and 50’ homesites. Lakeview Estates is a new single-family home community located near I-95 and top-rated schools where Pulte is building on 50’ homesites.

Seminole Palms and Lakeview Estates are PulteGroup’s second and third communities located in Palm Coast. Last year the company announced Del Webb Flagler Beach offering consumer-inspired home designs, coastal charm, resort-style amenities, and a magnificent 55+ active-adult lifestyle.

“Based on the significant growth in Flagler County, the market demand for new homes and the value Pulte offers, we expect strong home buyer interest for both Seminole Palms and Lakeview Estates,” said Justin Cook, President of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division. “Palm Coast is a wonderful coastal community for families of all ages to live with beautiful homesites, recreational amenities, and convenient access to excellent schools, retail centers and outdoor recreation.”

The first release of 40' and 50' homesites at Seminole Palms highlight preserve and water views. Homebuyers can choose from 13 open-concept home designs, thoughtfully crafted with flexible living spaces. Seminole Palms will feature a new amenity center with resort-style amenities including a sparkling pool, shaded cabanas, a modern fitness center, and miles of scenic walking trails. There are 13 golf courses nearby. Seminole Palms is near shopping, dining, services and zoned for top-ranked Flager County schools. The community has low CDD and HOA fees. To learn about VIP appointments, pricing, and more, call or text (386) 517-6300.

Lakeview Estates will offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty. Pulte will build modern single-family homes on spacious 50’ homesites offering scenic water and preserve views. Lakeview Estates is located just two miles from I-95, offering quick access to beautiful beaches, shopping, dining, and walking trails. The community is zoned for A-rated Flagler County schools. Lakeview Estates has no CDD fees and low HOA dues. To learn more and stay updated on community milestones, pricing and more, join the VIP interest list. Call or text (386) 387-8300.

For more information about PulteGroup’s communities in Palm Coast, visit https://www.pulte.com/homes/florida/jacksonville/palm-coast.

Artwork:

Seminole Palms site map
Lakeview Estates site map

About PulteGroup

About Pulte Homes

Pulte Homes is a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM). Pulte Homes builds consumer inspired homes and communities that provide the move-up buyer the best quality of life. Only Pulte Homes offers the combination of innovative Life Tested Home Designs? with an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit pulte.com.

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City Year Jacksonville Appoints Dawn Emerick as Senior Vice President and Executive Director

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Veteran executive will drive expansion in evolving nonprofit workforce development landscape

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — March 3, 2026 — City Year Jacksonville, the local chapter of the national nonprofit City Year, announced today the appointment of Dawn Emerick as Senior Vice President and Executive Director. This strategic leadership promotion marks the next chapter of growth and deepened community impact for the organization. Emerick began her new role on March 2, 2026.

“Dawn’s appointment as Executive Director represents a continuation of City Year Jacksonville’s commitment to bold leadership and strategic growth,” said Tammy Butler, Board Chair of City Year Jacksonville. “Her history of building community connection, advancing equity-centered solutions and strengthening organizational effectiveness positions City Year Jacksonville to elevate its impact for students, partners and communities across Northeast Florida.”

In her new role, Emerick will provide strategic leadership to empower City Year employees and AmeriCorps members to ensure their success. She will also drive operational success and revenue generation by generating resources and developing partnerships to build support in both public and private sectors. In addition, she will oversee student impact and school partnerships, expense management, AmeriCorps member and staff recruitment and retention, and board development and relations.

Emerick will serve as a vital link between the local Jacksonville chapter, the City Year Market Group and the City Year national office. City Year’s national organization is actively protecting and strengthening AmeriCorps while simultaneously preparing for a future that may require new funding models, innovative service designs, and greater economic resilience. That means diversifying public and private funding (nationally and locally), designing lower-cost, high-impact service options, leveraging new workforce pathways, and building strong financial reserves to weather disruption.

Emerick brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience across nonprofit, public sector and civic organizations — guiding transformational work in organizational design, strategic planning, people and culture development, and community partnerships. In her prior role as City Year Jacksonville’s Managing Director of People, Operations and Strategy, she was responsible for developing and implementing a long-term recruitment and culture plan, leading the execution of the strategic planning process and evolving the organization’s operations. She is the former CEO of the Health Planning Council of Northeast Florida, Groundwork Jacksonville and the Health & Human Services Administrator in Corvallis, Oregon, where she created the first Academic Health Department in the state. Before joining City Year, Emerick served as the Chief Strategy Officer and later the Chief Research Officer at the Jacksonville Civic Council.

Emerick’s academic credentials reflect her lifelong dedication to leadership and community wellbeing. She holds a Bachelor’s in Health Education from Frostburg State University, a Master’s of Public Administration and Health Administration and a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Social Marketing from the University of North Florida. She also completed advanced studies in Population Health Management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and holds certifications in Change Management and Mental Health First Aid. Beyond her professional achievements, Emerick is a nationally recognized TEDx speaker, podcast host (“Leadership Uncensored”) and author — bringing thoughtful insight into trauma-informed leadership and workplace resilience.

“This is a defining moment for City Year Jacksonville, not just to sustain our impact, but to expand it. We are strengthening schools today while creating clear workforce pathways for tomorrow. That requires disciplined strategy, diversified investment, and courageous partnerships. Together, we will protect what matters, innovate where needed, and ensure every young person we serve is prepared to thrive in school, career, and life.”

This school year, City Year Jacksonville returned to serving Jacksonville middle schools, with student success coaches in place at Landmark and Westside Middle Schools. The organization also serves at seven local elementary schools, including Jacksonville Heights Elementary School, Northwestern Legends Elementary School, Highlands Estates Academy, San Jose Elementary School, Andrew Robinson Elementary School, Rutledge H. Pearson Elementary School and Smart Pope Livingston Elementary School.

City Year is now recruiting 18-25-year-olds interested in completing a paid year of service during the 2026-2027 school year. For more information visit www.cityyear.org/jacksonville.

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About City Year Jacksonville:

City Year helps students and schools succeed, while preparing the next generation of civically engaged leaders who can work across lines of difference. Teams of City Year Student Success Coaches provide holistic support to students, classrooms and the whole school. A 2020 study shows that the more time students spend with Student Success Coaches, the more they improve on social, behavioral and academic skills – skills that help students thrive in school and contribute to their community.

A proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network, City Year is supported by AmeriCorps, local school districts and private philanthropy. City Year partners with public schools in 29 communities across the U.S. and through international affiliates in the U.K. and South Africa. Learn more about City Year Jacksonville at https://www.cityyear.org/jacksonville.

Gateway Jax Unveils Vandeveer — Bringing First Residences and Restaurant to Pearl Square

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Preleasing to begin soon; first residences will deliver late summer 2026

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –– March 3, 2026 –– Gateway Jax today unveiled Vandeveer –– the first residential building in Pearl Square –– marking the return of Downtown living at scale in Jacksonville’s urban core. Located at 515 North Pearl Street, Vandeveer is the first opportunity to live in the emerging nine-block neighborhood and the definitive start of residential life, dining, and new parks and public spaces at Pearl Square. Preleasing will begin soon, with the first residences expected to deliver in late summer 2026.

Vandeveer will feature 205 meticulously designed apartments above 22,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space, including a unique chef-driven Japanese restaurant concept from acclaimed restaurateur Steve Palmer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group.

The new restaurant will bring modern Japanese cuisine and a refined-yet-approachable dining experience to Downtown. The menu is expected to highlight local ingredients and fresh seafood with wood-fired offerings off the robata grill, as well as sushi, sashimi and other Japanese-inspired dishes. The cuisine will be complemented by a carefully curated beverage menu that includes cocktails, wine, sake and zero proof offerings. The Indigo Road Hospitality Group currently operates O-Ku at Jacksonville Beach as well as multiple award-winning concepts across the Southeast, including the coming soon Oak Steakhouse in Downtown Jacksonville.

“We are excited to celebrate Japanese cuisine with our new restaurant at Pearl Square as we join with Gateway Jax to shape the character of this new neighborhood,” said Steve Palmer, founder and chief creative officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group. “Our goal is always to create restaurants that are rooted in their surroundings –– a place where neighbors gather and guests connect over a shared love for food.”

The name Vandeveer honors Thomas Vandeveer Porter, whose historic Porter House Mansion — designed by Henry Klutho and built in 1902 following the Great Fire — stands as the centerpiece of new parks and public spaces that anchor the neighborhood. Positioned along Klutho’s Alley and adjacent to Porter House Lawn and Garden, Vandeveer is directly integrated into the neighborhood’s walkable public realm.

“Vandeveer is where the vision for Pearl Square becomes tangible,” said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax. “With thoughtfully designed residences, an anchor restaurant, and its prime location directly across from public parks, Vandeveer sets the tone for the vibrant, walkable neighborhood we are building in the heart of Jacksonville.”

Designed by SK+I and Edit at Streetsense, Vandeveer blends contemporary and contextual detailing that complements Downtown’s character. Jacksonville-based FaverGray is the general contractor, with civil engineering provided by England-Thims & Miller (ETM). Retail leasing is led by Colliers’ Urban Division, and the surrounding new parks are designed by Hoerr Schaudt. DLP Capital and JWB's Downtown Fund (DTJ Fund) are the primary investors in Vandeveer.

Apartment offerings at Vandeveer include studio, junior one-bedroom, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units with amenities such as a club room with coworking spaces, an outdoor terrace with pool, grills, and seating, a modern gym, and pet spa.

For more information and to join the Vandeveer waitlist, visit vandeveerjax.com.

To stay up to date on Pearl Square’s growth, visit pearlsquare.com.

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About Gateway Jax

Gateway Jax is committed to working in collaboration with residents and communities to build future-forward ways of working, living and playing. Learn more at gatewayjax.com.

Ability Housing Appoints Reggie Fullwood as Chief Executive Officer

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Former board chair elevated to permanent role with growing affordable housing nonprofit

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Feb. 26, 2026 — Ability Housing, a nonprofit developer of affordable multifamily housing across Florida, today announced the appointment of Reggie Fullwood as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Fullwood is an accomplished executive with deep roots in the affordable housing industry. He has been part of the organization’s board of directors for two separate terms, starting in the early 2000s and most recently serving as chair. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles with The Vestcor Companies and the Metro North Community Development Corporation — experiences that strengthened his knowledge of Florida’s housing landscape, including multifamily and single-family development, as well as community-based, resident-centered programs. Since 2022, he has served as the CEO of Operation New Hope: a Jacksonville-headquartered, nationally recognized nonprofit focused on workforce development and reentry services, which has added offices under his oversight in St. Augustine, Orlando, Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Space Coast region.

This appointment solidifies Fullwood’s executive management of Ability Housing, which he has been helping to lead since the organization’s previous CEO departed in December 2025. The board of directors unanimously voted to install him as the permanent new CEO in January, following an extensive national search led by a local firm and a board committee. He will play a pivotal role in scaling the organization’s service to thousands of Floridians, with a new community approaching completion in St. Augustine and construction set to begin in March on multifamily developments in Jacksonville and Orlando.

“Ability Housing has a strong foundation to grow from, which Reggie helped create over two decades of service,” said Greg Matovina, Ability Housing board chair. “We are confident in this transition. Reggie’s long-standing commitment to our mission and demonstrated leadership across the state are exactly what we need at this moment to move the organization forward.”

Fullwood will hold dual CEO roles at Ability Housing and Operation New Hope, with the long-term goal of creating more alignment between both organizations in key service areas like case management, mental health support, permanent supportive housing and workforce development training. He will guide efforts to enhance impact, strengthen sustainability and expand partnerships among both statewide teams.

“I am excited about the opportunity to lead two amazing nonprofits with missions that closely align. The overall goal is to move people from poverty to self-sufficiency and success. It’s an absolute honor to lead our teams, boards of directors and our partners. Our impact on the thousands of clients and residents we support every day is profound, and we will continue to grow both organizations,” said Ability Housing CEO Reggie Fullwood. “Ability Housing’s combination of multifamily real estate development, resident services and advocacy for long-term affordable housing solutions is unique and needed more than ever.”

Fullwood’s career includes positions spanning the public, private and nonprofit sectors. He began at AT&T prior to transitioning into the housing sector. In 1999, he was elected to the Jacksonville City Council before advancing to the Florida Legislature. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in political science from the University of North Florida. He also attended Morehouse College in Atlanta and is a graduate of both Leadership Jacksonville and Leadership Florida.

For more information about Ability Housing, visit abilityhousing.org.

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About Ability Housing:
Ability Housing is an industry-leading not-for-profit multifamily rental housing developer dedicated to creating high-quality affordable housing. We invest in communities through properties that enhance their surrounding neighborhoods, improve each community’s quality of life, and connect residents with a network of voluntary support services.

For more information, visit abilityhousing.org, like the organization on Facebook (facebook.com/AbilityHousing) and follow on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/ability-housing/).

Thigpen Heating & Cooling Hosts 3rd Annual “Pickleball 4 Wishes” Tournament Benefiting Make-A-Wish

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

PONTE VEDRA, FL – Thigpen Heating & Cooling, Inc. is proud to host its 3rd Annual Pickleball 4 Wishes Tournament
on Saturday, February 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at The Yards, 254 Alta Mar Drive, Ponte Vedra, FL. For the
third consecutive year, Thigpen Heating & Cooling is bringing the community together through friendly competition
and family fun to benefit the Central and Northeast Florida division of Make-A-Wish. This year’s goal is to raise
$25,000 to support the life-changing work of Make-A-Wish.
Event Highlights:
• Beginner & Advanced Tournaments
• Raffles
• Food Trucks
• Kid Zone
• Family-Friendly Activities
Community members are encouraged to register to play, become sponsors, or donate. Registration and event
information are available at www.thigpenhvac.com. “Pickleball 4 Wishes continues to grow each year thanks to the
incredible support of our community,” said Sherrill Thigpen, CFO of Thigpen Heating & Cooling. “We are honored to
partner with Make-A-Wish and help create hope and life-changing moments for children and families right here in
Northeast Florida

The Sontag Foundation Awards $2.25 Million to Brain Cancer Research Three investigators named 2025 Distinguished Scientist Award recipients

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida — January 20, 2026 — The Sontag Foundation announced the recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Scientist Award (DSA), providing $2.25 million in research funding for three early-career investigators in brain cancer research.

Awarded through a highly competitive scientific review process, the Distinguished Scientist Award recognizes scientists with the potential to make a significant impact in the field and improve the lives of patients and families impacted by a brain cancer diagnosis.

Since its founding, the Foundation has invested more than $85 million at academic medical institutions across North America.

The following recipients will each receive a total of $750,000 to advance their research on brain cancer:

John Liu, MD, PhD, University of California, San Francisco
Defining mechanisms of glioblastoma treatment resistance using spatially-resolved CRISPR perturbations
Tyler Miller, MD, PhD, Case Western Reserve University
Overcoming myeloid-mediated immunosuppression to improve glioblastoma immunotherapy
Christina Tringides, PhD, William Marsh Rice University
Personalized multifunctional electrocorticograms for glioblastoma treatment

The Distinguished Scientist Award is granted annually to investigators at a pivotal stage of their careers to support research that may open new directions in understanding and treating brain cancer.

“Brain cancer is a deeply personal challenge for so many families, including mine,” said Rick Sontag, President of The Sontag Foundation. “That reality is what drives our commitment to advancing scientific discovery and accelerating efforts to diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent this disease.”

"I’ve had the great fortune of working with and being mentored by multiple Sontag DSA scientists throughout my career, and I’ve witnessed the positive impact of the support and community,” said John Liu, MD, PhD, one of the 2025 award recipients. “Having first received the ASCO-Sontag Young Investigator Award and now the Distinguished Scientist Award, I am incredibly excited to continue this scientific journey and go even bolder with the generous support of the Sontag Foundation. Being part of the DSA community represents a truly unique catalyst for collaboration toward our shared mission of ending brain cancer."

A complete list of 2025 Distinguished Scientist Award recipients and additional information about the award program are available here.

Distinguished Scientist Award recipients also convene through Foundation-supported scientific gatherings that encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas across disciplines. In February 2026, the Foundation will host its 23rd annual scientific summit in Amelia Island, Florida. The keynote speaker features Mac Stone, a contributing photographer for National Geographic Magazine, a National Geographic Society Explorer, and a senior fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers.

Mac strives to expose the dynamic relationship between mankind and the natural world to drive meaningful conservation initiatives. His images have been widely published and awarded in international competitions, including Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

Photography:

Distinguished Scientist Award recipient Dr. John Liu (center) with Scott Davis, Managing Director of the Sontag Innovation Fund; Hilary Keeley, Executive Director of the Sontag Foundation; and members of Dr. Liu’s lab. Photo by Alejandra Canales.

Left to right: Brad Mottier, Sontag Foundation Board of Directors; Hilary Keeley, Executive Director of the Sontag Foundation; Distinguished Scientist Award recipient Dr. Tyler Miller; Shandra Koler, Program Manager of the Sontag Foundation; and Scott Davis, Managing Director of the Sontag Innovation Fund.

Left to right: Justin Siemann, Associate, Life Sciences, Sontag Foundation; Hilary Keeley, Executive Director of the Sontag Foundation; Dr. Christina Tringides, Distinguished Scientist Award Recipient; Shandra Koler, Program Manager, Sontag Foundation; and Dan Ryan, Sontag Foundation Board of Directors. Photo by Jorge Vidal/Rice University.

About The Sontag Foundation

Founded in 2002 by Frederick and Susan Sontag following Susan’s battle with a lethal form of brain cancer, The Sontag Foundation is one of the largest private funders of brain cancer research in North America. The Foundation advances the field by investing in scientists pursuing bold, innovative, and transformative research.

In addition to its research funding, the Sontags established the Brain Tumor Network, a national nonprofit organization that provides free navigation services to patients with brain tumors, helping them connect to specialists, second opinions, and clinical trials.

Learn more at www.sontagfoundation.org.
For patient resources, visit www.braintumornetwork.org.

Media Contact
Shandra Koler
Program Manager, The Sontag Foundation
skoler@sontagfoundation.org
904-273-8755

Mascots Scampi, Southpaw to deliver Valentine’s Day packages to Crustacean Nation

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Packages include 2026 ticket vouchers, rose, Sweet Pete’s candy, Valentine’s Day card & Jumbo Shrimp koozie

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Members of Crustacean Nation can make sure this Valentine’s Day is a sweet one with tickets vouchers for a 2026 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home game, a rose from Arlington Flower Shop, Sweet Pete’s candy, Jumbo Shrimp Valentine’s Day card and a Jumbo Shrimp koozie, all delivered by one of the club’s mascots. On Thursday, February 12 and Friday, February 13, Scampi and Southpaw will personally share the love of Valentine’s Day and the upcoming baseball season.

With Cupid's big day right around the corner, Arlington Flower Shop and the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are offering fans the Jumbo Shrimp Valentine’s Day Surprise package, a unique way to make a lasting impression on their loved one. The package includes four undated dugout reserved ticket vouchers for the 2026 season, a rose from Arlington Flower Shop, Sweet Pete’s candy, a Jumbo Shrimp Valentine’s Day card and a Jumbo Shrimp koozie – all for just $160.

Lovable Jumbo Shrimp mascots Scampi and Southpaw will deliver the Valentine's Day Surprise packages ordered by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11 (or until packages sell out), to their Valentines throughout the greater Jacksonville area. Packages will be delivered on Thursday, Feb. 12 and Friday, Feb. 13, pending availability.

Delivery time is limited, so call the Jumbo Shrimp front office at (904) 358-2846 to order packages and schedule delivery.

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Hot Stove Banquet guest of honor Andruw Jones elected to Baseball Hall of Fame

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Tickets still available; Event features VIP Meet & Greet, photo line, dinner, discussion, fan Q&A

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Atlanta Braves legend Andruw Jones, who will be the guest of honor at the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s inaugural Hot Stove Banquet also featuring World Series Champion and recording artist Brett Myers presented by Rolland Reash Plumbing, has been elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Tickets are still available for the Hot Stove Banquet, which is set for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, February 6 inside the Right Field Hall at VyStar Ballpark.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the event, which features a pre-dinner VIP Meet & Greet with Jones, photo line, dinner, program with Jones emceed by Frank Frangie, host of the The Frank Frangie Show on 1010XL and play-by-play voice of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and public Q&A session. The dinner includes a full-plated meal with one drink ticket for beer or wine (vegetarian option available). There will also have a silent auction featuring unique items and experiences, benefiting Walk Off Charities.

Tickets are $150 per person, or $1,000 for a table of eight. VIP tickets include a pre-dinner Meet & Greet with Jones, as well as one personalized autograph per person (fans must bring own item for signature). Tickets and VIP tickets may be purchased via this link.

Jones played in the major leagues from 1996-2012 appearing with five different ball clubs (Braves, Dodgers, Rangers, White Sox and Yankees). He also played with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball from 2013-14. Upon his retirement from professional baseball in 2016, the Curaço-native tallied 434 career home runs and 1,289 RBIs. He was a five-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove award recipient (all as a member of the Atlanta Braves). He had his #25 retired by the Atlanta Braves and is a member of the team’s Hall of Fame.

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Junior Achievement of North Florida and Florida State College at Jacksonville Announce LongTerm Land Lease for JA Experiential Learning Center on Downtow

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL - January 20, 2026 - Junior Achievement of North Florida (JANFL) and Florida
State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) today announced a landmark partnership to establish
the Junior Achievement Experiential Learning Center (ELC) on FSCJ’s Downtown Campus
through a 50-year land lease agreement. The collaboration represents a long-term investment
in Jacksonville’s students, workforce and regional economy.
Planned as a state-of-the-art, immersive facility, the JA Experiential Learning Center is projected
to serve more than 30,000 students annually across the Northeast Florida region. Located in the
heart of Downtown Jacksonville, the ELC will bring career-connected learning to life and will
allow students to run businesses, earn paychecks, manage budgets and explore career
pathways through hands-on simulations that bridge classroom learning with real-world
application.
“The ELC reflects what’s possible when education, business and community come together
around a shared goal: preparing young people for choice-filled futures,” said Shannon Italia,
President of Junior Achievement of North Florida. “This long-term partnership with FSCJ gives
our community the foundation we need to build an experiential learning hub that strengthens
student outcomes and supports a future-ready workforce. We’re grateful to FSCJ for making this
possible, and we’re excited to invite the community to be part of what comes next.”
The ELC will build on JA’s Florida state-aligned curriculum and nationally proven model.
Through signature experiences such as JA BizTown® and JA Finance Park®, students will develop
financial capability, workforce readiness skills and career confidence in an engaging,
experiential environment.
FSCJ’s Downtown Campus provides a unique setting for this opportunity. The ELC will create a
continuum that connects elementary and secondary students to postsecondary education,
career pathways and lifelong learning.
“This partnership embodies FSCJ’s commitment to serving as an educational anchor for our
community,” said FSCJ President John Avendano, Ph.D. “By welcoming the Junior Achievement
Experiential Learning Center to our Downtown Campus, we are expanding exposure and
opportunity for young students across Jacksonville while strengthening the connection between
early learning, college and career.”
Designed as a regional hub for experiential learning, the JA ELC will also strengthen
Jacksonville’s talent pipeline by connecting students with local industries, employers and
volunteers. Approximately 4,000 volunteers and 200+ companies are expected to engage
annually, reinforcing the ELC’s role as a catalyst for community and economic development.
The project is supported by a capital campaign and reflects JANFL’s strategic focus on scaling
impact, deepening community partnerships and delivering measurable outcomes for North
Florida’s youth.
Design and engineer planning for the ELC are underway, with construction targeted to begin
in 2026 and a soft opening projected for fall 2027.
To learn more about the JA ELC or how to support this initiative, visit janflelc.org.
About FSCJ
Known as “the community’s college,” Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) exists to
provide equitable, high quality, success-driven learning experiences for our diverse community
of students. Serving more than 45,000 students and awarding over 5,000 degrees and
certificates on an annual basis, the College plays a significant role in supplying the region’s
employers with a highly skilled, educated workforce.
About Junior Achievement of North Florida
Junior Achievement of North Florida inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global
economy. JA’s hands-on learning experiences focus on financial literacy, career readiness, and
entrepreneurship—helping students build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to pursue
choice-filled futures and contribute to a stronger Northeast Florida.
For more informa\on, visit janfl.org.
Media Contact:
Katherine Espinosa, VP Opera\ons
Junior Achievement of North Florida
904.398.9944
kat@janfl.org

MOCA Jacksonville Welcomes New Slate of Board Members Committed to Advancing Arts and Culture

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), part of the University of North Florida, proudly announces the appointment of seven distinguished individuals to its Board of Trustees. These leaders bring a broad range of expertise, a passion for the arts, and a shared commitment to advancing the museum’s mission to promote the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time.

Strong Governance for a Vibrant Future

The addition of these trustees underscores MOCA’s dedication to robust governance and strategic leadership as it forges ahead with momentum from its hugely successful 100 Year Anniversary in 2024. The collective experience of its Board will guide the museum in expanding its reach, deepening community connections, and ensuring sustainability for generations to come.

Building Community Through the Arts

Each new trustee brings unique strengths that will help MOCA amplify its role as a one of Jacksonville’s leading cultural institutions:

Virginia “Ginny” Becker

Virginia Becker is a Ponte Vedra Beach–based entrepreneur, designer, and arts advocate with deep roots in the museum and gallery world. As co-founder of Terra Innovations, Becker has spearheaded projects ranging from residential communities and bespoke vacation homes to marinas, yachts, and innovative energy solutions. Her career began at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., where she supported major exhibitions and curatorial initiatives. Becker holds an M.A. in Art History from American University and has studied Renaissance Art at the British Institute of Florence. Since relocating to Northeast Florida, she has been actively engaged in philanthropy and cultural initiatives that foster creativity and education.

Melanie Busby

With a background in health sciences and extensive community involvement, Melanie Busby is a dedicated leader and philanthropist. She has chaired parent associations at The Bolles School, has served on the Wolfson Children’s Development Council, and was co-chair of the Angelwood Annual Gala. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to education, healthcare, and the arts, and she has already stepped forward to co-host MOCA’s signature fundraising event this year.

Emily Chaves

As the UNF Student Representative on MOCA’s Board of Trustees, Emily Chaves embodies the next generation of arts leadership. Her work with Art with a Heart in Healthcare and leadership roles within UNF highlight her dedication to accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement through the arts.

David Engdahl

An accomplished sculptor and architect, David Engdahl has exhibited works throughout the United States and completed more than 20 public and private commissions. His art is featured in public and private collections, including those of the Huntsville Museum of Art, Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, Orlando Museum of Art, and Wiregrass Museum of Art. A recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Individual Artist Fellowship and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Innovator Award, Engdahl’s contributions to the arts community are widely celebrated and he has served on many arts and cultural boards across Jacksonville. This is Engdhal’s second time elected to serve on the MOCA Board.

Inger Loftheim Geraghty

Inger Loftheim Geraghty is committed to community service and leadership excellence. She built a distinguished career in corporate sales and leadership and has served on boards for the American Heart Association, Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center, and the Lung Association. She has also chaired numerous philanthropic events for nonprofits serving the local community. A passionate advocate for breast cancer education and research, Geraghty remains deeply committed to initiatives that drive meaningful impact across Northeast Florida.

Shanna Khan

Shanna Khan is the President of the Khan Family Office, as well as CEO and Founder of Shanna Collective, a commercial real estate development company with assets under management in Jacksonville and Chicago. Khan is a visionary leader and driving force behind some of Jacksonville's most transformative projects, overseeing her family office's global portfolio of development and investment properties and initiatives, including the landmark Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Shipyards. Khan guides the vision, strategy, and achievements of these high-impact projects, which are positively reshaping the identity of Downtown Jacksonville's Northbank district.

Brian Moore

Brian Moore serves as Vice President and Senior Relationship Strategist at PNC Private Bank, bringing nearly three decades of experience in financial planning and client service. Moore holds an MBA from the University of Florida and is a Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter. His expertise in strategic planning and philanthropy strengthens MOCA’s mission to sustain and grow its cultural impact.

Driving Positive Change

“These new trustees embody the values of innovation, collaboration, and community,” said Caitlín Doherty, Associate Vice President of Arts UNF and Executive Director of MOCA Jacksonville. “Their leadership will help us expand our impact and ensure that contemporary art remains a vital force in Northeast Florida. I am extremely grateful for their passion and commitment to MOCA, and look forward to working with them and our entire MOCA Board as we look ahead to an exciting future at MOCA Jackonville ”

For more information about MOCA Jacksonville and its programs, visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

Located in the heart of historic Downtown, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is one of the city’s most significant cultural assets. As the oldest art museum in Northeast Florida and one of the first contemporary art museums to be established in the United States, MOCA is focused on promoting the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time.

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. In 2009, MOCA became a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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AMBER SESNICK

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

ARTS UNF

W: 904-620-3224 | C: 904-303-0703

MOCA JACKSONVILLE

Part of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida

333 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202

Follow @mocajax

MOCAJACKSONVILLE.UNF.EDU

From Pilot to Program: Florida Blue Expands Cancer Support for Medicare Advantage Members

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Trial Showed 40% Reduction in Hospital and ER Visits and 95% Patient Satisfaction

JACKSONVILLE, FLA., [JAN. 14, 2026] – As part of its ongoing commitment to members with cancer and their families, Florida Blue, the state's leading health insurer, has launched a new care navigation program. The program guides patients throughout the cancer journey, providing a better experience that connects them to the care and support they need. A pilot study showed a successful 40% reduction in hospital and ER visits for participating patients.

Florida Blue introduced this comprehensive solution for its Medicare Advantage members in collaboration with Evolent, an independent company focused on helping people with complex conditions get the care they need. At no additional cost, patients get a dedicated care navigator and access to easy-to-use digital tools, providing them with ongoing support and guidance between doctor's visits. Early results show improved outcomes and lower health care costs, with a high patient and caregivers satisfaction score of 95%.

Care navigation can help patients manage the often overwhelming realities that come with a cancer diagnosis, and it’s particularly valuable in older adults. Cancer rates increase with age, and many older Americans also face social isolation. According to 2022 U.S. Census data, 28% of people 65 and older live alone and do not have children, making it more difficult to navigate cancer care without a built-in support system. In Florida, more than 1.1 million older adults were living alone as of 2023, according to the Florida Department of Health.

Florida Blue and Evolent have worked together since 2021 to improve cancer care for members. Adding care navigation builds on the collaboration by creating a more tailored, higher quality experience. Patients are paired with an Evolent care navigator for personalized guidance including help coordinating appointments, managing symptoms and side effects, planning for emergencies, and connecting to community resources such as support groups.

“We’re committed to supporting our members when they’re well and through challenging times,” said Dr. Thomas Graf, chief medical officer of Florida Blue Medicare. “This innovative approach helps members and their families better manage their cancer care, with greater confidence and clarity, so they can focus on their health, loved ones, and quality of life.”

The program also uses a digital platform called Careology to facilitate collaboration between members, caregivers, and clinicians. Through Careology, patients can track symptoms, set reminders for appointments and medications, share real-time updates with their care team, and get advice outside of their office visits. By bridging the gap between clinic and home, this platform ensures members receive timely, personalized support and care, even when they're not in a clinical setting. This continuous connection helps navigators identify problems earlier and ensures members receive the care they need, when they need it.

“By giving clinicians real-time insights into a patient's experience, we can help them make better decisions and provide more effective care,” said Dr. Von Nguyen, Evolent's chief medical officer. “This improves patient outcomes and enhances the overall care experience for patients and their families.”

Medicare members can find information about Florida Blue’s care programs at FloridaBlue.com/Medicare/Member/Care-Programs.

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About Florida Blue Medicare

Florida Blue Medicare is committed to helping our Florida neighbors live healthier. Florida Blue Medicare offers a wide range of plan options, including Medicare Advantage plans, to give Florida’s Medicare-eligible population what they need to live their best lives and improve their overall health and well-being. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., Florida Blue Medicare is proud to be affiliated with Florida Blue, a health insurer that has served Floridians for 80 years. Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are Independent Licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. Learn more at FloridaBlue.com/Medicare.

About Evolent

Evolent (NYSE: EVH) specializes in better health outcomes for people with complex conditions through proven solutions that make health care simpler and more affordable. Evolent serves a national base of leading payers and providers and is consistently recognized as a top place to work in health care nationally. Learn more about how Evolent is changing the way health care is delivered by visiting evolent.com.

ALEIZHA BATSON | Senior Regional Communications Lead, North Florida

aleizha.batson@bcbsfl.com | 904-535-8711 mobile

www.FloridaBlue.com

ICI Homes Donates $247,720 to NEFBA Builders Care

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Home from the Heart project located in Middlebourne in St. Johns County

ST. JOHNS, Fla. (Jan. 14, 2026) – ICI Homes, a Florida-based custom homebuilder and one of the nation's most esteemed builders, has proudly donated $247,720 to Builders Care, the charitable arm of the Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA), through its latest Home from the Heart project located in Middlebourne in St. Johns County. The funds raised will support Builders Care’s mission of providing critical home repairs and renovations to low-income, elderly, and disabled residents across Northeast Florida.

“This has been a journey filled with heart,” said Dan Middleton, Project Construction Manager of ICI Homes. “This isn’t just a home; it’s a promise to our neighbors that we care. The substantial donation is only possible thanks to the support of our generous trade partners, vendors, and the shared commitment of our entire team.”

The Home from the Heart initiative invites builders and their partners to construct and sell a custom home with proceeds benefiting Builders Care. ICI Homes chose to build a larger, higher-value home in Middlebourne, an intentional decision that resulted in a more impactful donation. A premier community by ICI Homes located in St. Johns County, Middlebourne combines the convenience of city living with the serene beauty of Florida's landscapes, offering something special for everyone. Crafted by ICI Homes, Middlebourne homes boast innovative design and unmatched quality.

The Middlebourne project was ICI Homes’ second Home from the Heart initiative in partnership with Builders Care. Their first collaboration raised $123,000. This year’s contribution — more than double — highlights ICI Homes’ ongoing dedication to giving back to the community it proudly builds in. The proceeds will directly support no-cost construction projects for those in need. Through its Home from the Heart projects, ICI Homes and its vendor partners contribute to a powerful, community-wide effort to enhance lives through safe, healthy housing throughout the region.

ICI Homes is recognized as a “Caring Member” on the Builders Care website — a title that reflects their deep-rooted commitment to local philanthropy. With over 45 years of experience, ICI Homes continues to lead not just in innovation and custom home design, but in service to the communities they call home. To learn more about ICI Homes and their community initiatives, visit www.ICIHomes.com.

Photography:

ICI Homes has donated $247,720 to NEFBA Builders Care through its latest Home from the Heart project located in Middlebourne in St. Johns County.

About ICI Homes

Headquartered in Daytona Beach, FL, for over 45 years, ICI Homes has built thousands of homes in prestigious communities in many major Florida markets, including Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Orlando, Sarasota, Tampa, and Gainesville. Known as Florida’s Custom Home Builder, the company is widely recognized for its unique ability to customize any home with a focus on superior energy-wise standards of its luxury custom single-family homes, estate homes, and townhomes.

ICI Homes continues to win hundreds of awards for outstanding design features and was awarded the Platinum Builder Award by HBW in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025. ICI Homes is consistently ranked among the nation’s “Top 100 Builders” by Builder Magazine and has been named “Builder of the Year” by the Florida Home Builders Association many times over.

For more information, visit ICIHomes.com.

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LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Celebrates Donors for National Blood Donor Month

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Annual observance in January honors everyday heroes whose altruism saves lives

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – January 14, 2026 – January is National Blood Donor Month, and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is celebrating the everyday heroes who donate blood by collecting and sharing their stories to raise awareness about the importance of giving blood. The annual national observation honors the selfless act of donating blood and encourages first-time donors to give the gift of life in the new year.

“People donate blood for many important reasons. Everyone has their own ‘why,’ and we at LifeSouth are so incredibly grateful to all citizens who give their blood to save lives every day,” said J.D. Pettyjohn, Chief Operating Officer of LifeSouth. “This year, we are asking our donors to share their stories with us, so we can celebrate their ‘why” throughout the year to honor their act of service.”

LifeSouth supplies blood to 70% of Northeast Florida hospital beds through its service to many regional hospitals, including Baptist Medical Center Beaches, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Baptist Medical Center South, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health North and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Blood donated with LifeSouth directly helps patients at these hospitals.

“For many people undergoing cancer treatment, blood transfusions are an essential part of their care. If you know someone who has received treatment for cancer, it is likely they received a blood transfusion,” said Dr. Robert Zaiden, Medical Oncologist and Director of Infusion Centers at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center. “Nearly 25% of all donated blood nationally is used to support patients with cancer, and each donation helps someone stay on track with treatment. Local donors are heroes in the world of oncology.”

National Blood Donor Month was first celebrated in January 1970, after President Richard Nixon issued a proclamation establishing the observance. Now in its 56th year, the observance brings attention to the role that blood donors play in public health at a time when many blood centers around the nation experience a supply shortage. This year’s celebration is especially important, as all blood types are needed to ensure blood is available for patients in need across the local community.

All blood donors will receive a commemorative sweatshirt, and platelet and double red cell donors receive a $40 e-gift card, while supplies last. As a special benefit, LifeSouth is also offering complimentary A1c testing to all blood donors, giving donors the chance to learn if they may have pre-diabetes or diabetes, and more about their health. In addition to A1c testing, all blood donors receive a mini physical including cholesterol screen, blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin level and temperature.

LifeSouth encourages Northeast Florida residents to participate in National Blood Donor Month in one of the following ways:

Make a donation. With only an average 1-2 day supply available in the state of Florida, it's more important now than ever to make sure blood is available for patients. LifeSouth welcomes regular and first-time donors to visit one of its donor centers in Northeast Florida, or find one of its signature red, white and blue buses to donate at a mobile blood drive.
Encourage a first-time donor. Few citizens annually participate in the blood donation process. The best way to make a difference is to encourage someone to donate with you at one of LifeSouth’s donor centers or blood drives.
Host a blood drive. LifeSouth welcomes the support of businesses, organizations, churches, professional groups and neighborhoods looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community.
Share your story. Personal stories often inspire others to save lives by donating with LifeSouth. Tag @LifeSouth in posts on Facebook, X or Instagram, and use the hashtag #NationalBloodDonorMonth.

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About LifeSouth:

LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. The LifeSouth team is dedicated to making sure the blood is there when a patient is in need. To learn more, visit LifeSouth.org. For more resources and information about blood donation, visit donatingblood.org.

Leadership Announcement: Megan J. Richardson Named President

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Dynamic Corporate Solutions, Inc., is pleased to announce the promotion of Megan J. Richardson to President. Megan brings over 20 years of experience in Human Resources compliance, planning and strategy.

Megan began with DCSI more than 12 years ago. In her tenure with DCSI she has worked her way through the organization beginning as a consultant, until her most recent role as Senior Vice President. In her time with DCSI, Megan has led countless projects in the non-profit, public, and private sector. She has worked closely with all levels of leadership from family-owned businesses to Fortune 500 companies to help develop their Human Resources Departments and ensure each reflects the company's specific culture.

Megan is a proactive communicator with a unique ability to translate client needs across diverse stakeholder groups, consistently delivering successful, high-impact outcomes.

Megan received two Bachelor of Arts Degrees from Flagler College of St. Augustine, Florida and holds both SHRM-CP and a PHR designations.

"Megan has been an integral part of the DCSI family for over 12 years," said Suzi Lemen, CEO of DCSI. "In that time, she has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to our company's mission. Megan's key achievements include driving significant revenue growth and optimizing our operational efficiency. As the founder, I will remain in my role as CEO, focusing on our long-term vision, innovation, and strategic partnerships. Moving Megan into the day-to-day management of the organization allows me the time and flexibility to do this."

"I couldn't be happier to take on this new challenge," said Megan. "I'm incredibly excited to lead DCSI into its next chapter. Our team does exceptional work, and I am energized by the opportunity to expand our impact while staying true to the values that have always defined us."

Dynamic Corporate Solutions, Inc. is a full-service Human Resources Consulting firm, located in Fleming Island, Florida, providing assistance to companies and helping them achieve and exceed their strategic goals. The Company has successfully combined the talents and experience of numerous Human Resources, Compensation, Organizational Development and Training professionals, providing client companies with an unprecedented depth of knowledge and expertise on a project-based or as-needed basis. Megan J. Richardson: 904-278-5383 x2002 mrichardson@dynamiccorp.com

JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH: IN CONCERT 40TH ANNIVERSARY NOVEMBER 11, 2026 @ FLORIDA THEATRE

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (January 13, 2026) – The Florida Theatre and AEG Presents are proud to announce Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert, 40^th Anniversary on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. Ask about the VIP/Meet & Greet package available for this show.

Experience Jim Henson and David Bowie’s original masterpiece, Labyrinth, like never before with Labyrinth: In Concert! Watch the full movie on a massive HD screen, accompanied by a combination of live rock band, synth, percussion, and fantastic lighting effects that transport us to the Goblin City. Feel the power of the music from the cult classic live! Don’t miss this exceptional event that brings beloved characters, epic music, and breathtaking visuals from the Labyrinth universe to life in a heart- warming fusion of film and live music.

Directed by Jim Henson, Labyrinth stars music legend David Bowie and a young Jennifer Connelly in one of her breakout roles. Labyrinth transports viewers back into the mystical maze accidentally summoned by Connelly’s imaginative teen, Sarah. She must rescue her brother Toby from Bowie’s character Jareth, the Goblin King.

Labyrinth also features breathtaking production design, extraordinary practical effects and the magical artistry of hundreds of Henson puppets and creatures brought to life by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.

One of the key elements of the movie’s success was its soundtrack. The album alternates between Trevor Jones’ original score and Bowie-penned pop songs from the movie, including “Magic Dance,” “As The World Falls Down,” and the album’s theme song and biggest chart hit, “Underground,” which was paired with an elaborate music video set in the world of Labyrinth.

Labyrinth is a beloved Jim Henson fantasy film that can be seen as a coming-of-age story, exploring themes of growing up, self-discovery, and balancing childhood imagination with adult responsibility, disguised as a whimsical yet dark fairy tale.

Here’s your chance to see Labyrinth, one of the defining fantasy films of a generation, in a communal setting on the big screen. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. Ask about the VIP/Meet & Greet package available for this show.

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About the Florida Theatre

Jumbo Shrimp invite non-profit organizations to fundraise at VyStar Ballpark

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Club to hold informational event at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are hosting an informational event for non-profit organizations seeking to find fun and creative ways to raise money and awareness during the club’s upcoming 2026 season at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28 at VyStar Ballpark. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

The Jumbo Shrimp offer a wide variety of fundraising opportunities to help various entities such as youth sports teams, food banks, booster clubs, private schools, churches and military and civic groups to earn both money for their fundraising goals and gain added exposure for their cause at VyStar Ballpark. Programs include the operation of the ballpark’s concession stands and other portable ballpark food areas, as well as fundraising tickets, the prize wheel and VyStar Charity Begins at Home Program.

To RSVP to the non-profit informational event, please email community relations coordinator Sydney Ryan at sydney@jaxshrimp.com.

“Our non-profit informational meeting is a terrific opportunity to meet face-to-face and answer any questions about fundraising at VyStar Ballpark,” said Jumbo Shrimp president & general manager Matt Goudreau. “It has been incredibly rewarding over the years to help a wide variety of non-profit organizations through our various programs, and we look forward to continuing to expand our efforts for the 2026 season.”

More information about fundraising opportunities can be found via this link.

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CINDERELLA’S TOM KEIFER ANNOUNCES LIVE PERFORMANCE AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE WITH SPECIAL GUESTS L.A. GUNS ON JUNE 12, 2026

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

CINDERELLA’S TOM KEIFER ANNOUNCES LIVE PERFORMANCE AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS L.A. GUNS

ON JUNE 12, 2026

JACKSONVILLE, FL (January 12, 2026) – The Florida Theatre and Elko Concerts are proud to announce Cinderella’s Tom Keifer, plus special guests L.A. Guns, on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

Tom Keifer remains a resilient, relevant figure in the rock world through constant reimagination and renewal. His story begins as the singer-songwriter, guitarist, and frontman of hard rock heavyweights Cinderella. His signature voice, guitar, and bluesy, no-BS arena-shaking songwriting played an integral role in moving records to the tune of 15 million worldwide. Tom Keifer is enjoying continued success recording and touring with #keiferband, releasing two critically acclaimed solo albums, The Way Life Goes and Rise. #keiferband is Tom Keifer, Savannah Keifer, Tony Higbee, Luis Espaillat, Jarred Pope, Kory Myers, and Tanya Davis. The band’s high-energy rock show combines all the classic, chart-topping hits of Cinderella with new favorites from #keiferband releases. To learn more, visit https://www.tomkeifer.com/.

L.A. Guns are an American glam metal band from Los Angeles, formed in 1983. The lineup currently consists of Tracii Guns (lead guitar), Phil Lewis (lead vocals), Ace Von Johnson (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Johnny Martin (bass, backing vocals), Adam Hamilton (studio drums), and Shawn Duncan (live drums). They are known for songs such as “Never Enough,” “Over the Edge,” and “The Ballad of Jayne.” To learn more, visit https://www.lagunsmusic.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

Raines, Ribault resume rivalry in seventh annual High School Heritage Classic

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Tickets available for just $7 for 11 a.m. game on Friday, February 27

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As part of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s Black History Month celebration, the club is hosting Duval County Public Schools rivals William M. Raines High School and Jean Ribault High School in the seventh annual High School Heritage Classic at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 27 at VyStar Ballpark. Gates open at 10 a.m.

Raines and Ribault student-athletes will wear customized Jacksonville Red Caps uniforms in a tribute to the Negro Leagues team that resided in Jacksonville from 1938-42. The exhibition contest will feature historical references to Negro Leagues players and teams throughout the game. The winning team will earn the A. Philip Randolph Cup, commemorating the civil rights activist who moved to Jacksonville in 1891.

General Admission Seating Bowl tickets for the High School Heritage Classic are available for $7 per person, and are on sale now via this link. For group tickets, please contact the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846.

“We are incredibly proud to continue the tradition of the High School Heritage Classic that celebrates the extraordinary history of the Negro Leagues in Jacksonville,” said president & general manager Matt Goudreau. “Thank you to Duval County Public Schools and the students and faculty of both Raines and Ribault High Schools for continuing this tradition to the Jumbo Shrimp’s annual Black History Month celebration. This special game always helps encourage all fans to continue to learn about the extraordinary Negro Leagues players who complete the history of the sport we all love.”

The Raines Vikings won each of the first two High School Heritage Classics to take home the A. Philip Randolph Cup by margins of 8-4 in 2020 and 16-5 in 2021. However, the Ribault Trojans won the next two contests, 4-2 in 2022 and 8-3 in 2023. The teams tied 5-5 in 2024. Last season, Ribault used a five-run third inning to beat Raines 10-3.

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Jumbo Shrimp open registration for Feb. 11 National Anthem auditions

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Team seeks talented individuals and groups to perform before each of club’s 75 home games

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp prepare to open their 2026 schedule of 75 home games on March 27, the club is inviting the talent of Northeast Florida to audition to perform the National Anthem before a Jumbo Shrimp home game during the upcoming season. Individuals and groups can now register for the club’s National Anthem auditions, to be held from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11 at VyStar Ballpark.

The auditions will be held rain or shine. Interested individuals and groups may schedule an audition time by completing a registration form and emailing it to promotions coordinator Abby Decker at abby@jaxshrimp.com.

Individuals or groups who performed during the 2025 Jumbo Shrimp season are not required to audition if they are interested in performing again in 2026. Such individuals or groups should still complete and email the registration form, indicating a past performance at a Jumbo Shrimp game.

“We pride our organization on making sure Jumbo Shrimp games at VyStar Ballpark are community events,” said Jumbo Shrimp president & general manager Matt Goudreau. “One of the highlights of each Jumbo Shrimp home game is listening to local individuals and groups performing just before first pitch.”

Opening Day for the 2026 season is slated for 7:05 p.m. on Friday, March 27 at VyStar Ballpark. The Jumbo Shrimp will begin the defense of their 2025 Triple-A National Championship by hosting the Rochester Red Wings (Washington Nationals). Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are available now for the entirety of the 2026 season by visiting www.jaxshrimp.com or by calling (904) 358-2846.

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Cold, flu or something worse? HCA Florida Healthcare’s Consult-A-Nurse hotline provides free, expert health advice 24/7

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (January 8, 2026) – As winter approaches, respiratory illnesses like flu and RSV are on the rise across the state, according to the Florida Department of Health. With common symptoms like fever, cough or congestion, it can be difficult to distinguish between these illnesses requiring treatment and the common cold. Luckily for Florida residents, finding an answer can be as easy as making a phone call.

HCA Florida Healthcare’s Consult-A-Nurse hotline is a free service connecting Floridians with a licensed, experienced nurse to provide quick, convenient expert advice and support. When dialing 844-70-NURSE (6-8773), anyone, including people recently discharged from the hospital, can ask questions or speak with a nurse about any symptoms or illnesses they or someone in their family may be experiencing.

Consult-A-Nurse staff may refer callers to a nearby emergency room, urgent care or follow up with a physician, underscoring the potentially lifesaving importance of having a healthcare professional available for guidance any time, day or night.

“Our goal is to help advise people about their important health questions and connect them with the care they need," said David Threatt, DNP, MSHI, RN, NE-BC, chief nursing officer, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital.

"Whether you’re a parent of a newborn with questions in the middle of the night, or not sure if you are experiencing heart burn or a heart attack, we are here to provide information or direct you to the right place at the right time to receive care,” said Mary Tabor, MSN, RN, NE-BC, chief nursing officer, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital.

Launched in 2022, this free clinical resource provided by HCA Florida Healthcare has helped nearly 54,000 callers across the state answer their urgent health questions and find appropriate care just this year. The program is available to anyone, regardless of existing insurance coverage or current status as an HCA Florida Healthcare patient. With translation services available for many languages including Spanish, Consult-A-Nurse is another way HCA Florida Healthcare provides access to care through the one of Florida’s leading healthcare networks.

For more information about services and providers available near you, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.

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About HCA Florida Healthcare

HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is a family of more than 650 affiliated sites of care, including hospitals, physician practices, freestanding emergency rooms and urgent care centers. As one of the state’s leading healthcare networks, HCA Florida Healthcare’s 11,100 experienced doctors and more than 84,000 colleagues work together to deliver equitable, evidence-based collaborative care through more than 12 million patient encounters annually. HCA Florida Healthcare is committed to improving more lives in more ways and giving back to the communities it serves. In 2024, the network provided more than $1 billion in uncompensated care and contributed more than $3.7 million to community organizations across the state. In addition, HCA Florida Healthcare offers patients access to highly trained specialists, including the state’s most comprehensive cardiovascular network. A strong advocate for the next generation of healthcare professionals, HCA Florida Healthcare is a leader in training future healthcare professionals, offering 151 Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs at 27 different hospitals with more than 2,400 residents. For more information, please visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.

Gina Acosta Joins Acosta Group

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We're very pleased to share that Gina Acosta has joined Acosta Group's Corporate Communications team as Vice President, Industry Influence and Communications, reporting to Mike Smith, EVP, Corporate Communications and Marketing.

Gina joins Acosta Group from her most recent role as Editorial Director and Associate Publisher of Progressive Grocer, where she led and created industry-defining and award-winning coverage, major research initiatives and high-profile events. Previously, Gina held editorial positions with the Tampa Bay Times and the Washington Post.

In her new role, Gina will be elevating Acosta Group's insights, executive perspective, and real-world expertise into clear, credible narratives for retailers, brands, media, and partners. Gina's deep understanding of the grocery and consumer goods industry and her work at the intersection of narrative journalism, industry insights, and executive storytelling will amplify Acosta Group's distinctive voice across all platforms.

2026 will be another busy year, and we look forward to staying in touch and sharing our news and insights for your review.

Jacksonville Symphony ignites 2026 with “Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth”

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (January 8, 2026) — The Jacksonville Symphony presents “Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth” on Jan. 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Jacoby Symphony Hall as part of its Florida Blue Classical Series. Led by Music Director Courtney Lewis, the program showcases Anton Bruckner’s monumental work of grandeur and introspection.

The program will run for one hour and thirty minutes with no intermission, providing audiences with a nonstop journey of Bruckner’s orchestration. Composed during a period of personal turmoil and artistic opposition, this work is vast in scale and spiritual in character. Shaped by the composer’s deep religious faith, the work unfolds patiently, building towering musical structures that move from mystery toward transcendence.

Across four movements, the symphony progresses with a sense of inevitability. The opening rises from quiet tremolos to powerful climaxes, the Scherzo balances relentless energy with lyricism, and the Adagio offers one of Bruckner’s most expansive and moving slow movements. The finale draws together themes from the entire work in a sweeping conclusion.

“The Eighth Symphony provides access to a realm untouched by any other music I know,” said Lewis. “This is a space containing the deepest questions spiritual questions, and in my opinion, many of the answers.”

Tickets are available at JaxSymphony.org or by calling the Box Office at 904.354.5547. This concert is part of the Florida Blue Classical Series.

About the Jacksonville Symphony The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 155,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact: Savannah Silliman Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

WJCT PUBLIC MEDIA ANNOUNCES: New channel lineup

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Find Your Favorites — and Discover Something New

Jacksonville, FL — January 5, 2026 — WJCT Public Media is proud to announce the refreshment of its broadcast television lineup, offering viewers across Northeast Florida five free local channels designed to inform, inspire and connect the community. The expanded lineup officially launches on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

In addition to its broadcast services, WJCT Public Media offers on-demand and linear streaming through the PBS Video App and Jax PBS Passport.

The refreshed lineup includes:

7.1 – Jax PBS: Trusted news, culture and stories that inform and inspire Northeast Florida.
7.2 – Create: Hands-on inspiration for cooking, travel, home and lifestyle — learning by doing.
7.3 – Jax PBS Kids: Safe, educational and fun programming that helps children learn and grow.
7.4 – The Florida Channel: Government, civic affairs and state coverage — transparency in action for Floridians.
7.5 - World: Diverse perspectives, documentaries and public affairs programs that explore global and local issues.

With this refresh, WJCT Public Media continues its mission to serve as Jacksonville’s home for trusted, educational and inspiring public television. Each channel offers a unique viewing experience, reflecting the diverse interests and needs of the First Coast community.

“We’re proud to give viewers so many ways to watch to connect,” said David McGowan, President & CEO of WJCT Public Media. “Whether it’s local storytelling, educational kids’ content or trusted news coverage, WJCT is committed to enriching lives and strengthening our community through public media.”

The new lineup reflects WJCT Public Media’s dedication to accessible, high-quality programming for all ages and interests. From PBS NewsHour and NOVA to America’s Test Kitchen and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, each channel delivers meaningful content that entertains, informs and uplifts Northeast Florida audiences.

WJCT Public Media invites viewers to tune in over the air or through their local cable provider:

7.1 (Comcast 8, 440) – Jax PBS
7.2 (Comcast 210) – Create
7.3 (Comcast 211) – Jax PBS Kids
7.4 – The Florida Channel
7.5 (Comcast 212)– World

To learn more about the new lineup and how to watch, visit: https://wjct.org/jaxpbs/watch/

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NEILY JONES

Promotion & Marketing Associate, WJCT Public Media

904.318.2633 | nbraren@wjct.org

100 Festival Park Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32202

wjct.org | @WJCTJax

THE FLORIDA THEATRE IS THE 5TH MOST-ATTENDED THEATRE WORLDWIDE!

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (December 30, 2025) –– Concert industry trade magazine Pollstar released its year-end numbers for 2025. Each year, the magazine publishes a set of charts tracking ticket sales in the concert industry.

Overall, the Florida Theatre is the #45 most-attended theatre worldwide, but for theatres up to 2,000 seats, the Florida Theatre is the #5 most-attended theatre worldwide.

Top 5 Attendance – Theatres Up to 2,000 Seats:

3 Olympia Theatre (Dublin, Ireland), 293,811 tickets, $12,839,359 gross – 1,300 seats
Teatro Telcel (Mexico City, Mexico), 284,394 tickets, $22,911,869 gross – 2,000 seats
Barbara B. Mann Perf. Arts Hall (Fort Myers, Florida), 216,392 tickets, $16,214,781 gross – 1,874 seats
Capitole Gent (Ghent, Belgium), 188,120 tickets, $7,529,634 gross – 1,600 seats
Florida Theatre (Jacksonville, Florida), 184,803 tickets, $8,378,327 gross – 1,865 seats

“Being ranked the #45 most-attended theatre in the world is extraordinary, but what truly highlights the Florida Theatre’s impact is that among theatres with 2,000 seats or fewer, we rank #5 worldwide,” said Kevin Stone, Interim President/VP of Programming at the Florida Theatre. “As a 98-year-old theatre, it proves that history and innovation can thrive together. In addition, it speaks to the passion of our audiences, the strength of our programming, and the enduring role this historic theatre continues to play in the Jacksonville, FL community.”

According to Pollstar’s Year-End Top 200 Worldwide Top Touring Artists, the top 10 are: Beyonce at $407 million, Oasis at $405 million, Coldplay at $390 million, Kendrick Lamar/SZA at $358 million, Shakira at $320 million, The Weekend at $306 million, Chris Brown at $298 million, Imagine Dragons at $249 million, Lady Gaga at $208 million, and Post Malone at $197 million.

To see Pollstar’s Year-End Worldwide Top 200 Theatre Tickets, please click here.

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About the Florida Theatre

BETHEL MUSIC ANNOUNCES 2026 TOUR STOP AT FLORIDA THEATRE ON OCTOBER 12, 2026

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

BETHEL MUSIC ANNOUNCES 2026 TOUR STOP AT FLORIDA THEATRE ON OCTOBER 12, 2026

JACKSONVILLE, FL (December 19, 2025) – The Florida Theatre is proud to announce the Bethel Music 2026 Tour on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. Ask about the VIP/Meet & Greet Package available for this show.

Bethel Music is a worship movement pursuing the presence of God and capturing fresh expressions of worship out of Redding, California. Bethel Music has grown from a local church music ministry to an internationally renowned collective of songwriters, artists, and musicians. Brian and Jenn Johnson co-founded the movement in 2001 to raise up worshippers, take hold of their true identities, and pursue intimacy with God, above all else.

Since 2001, Bethel Music has released 27 albums, including their most recent live worship album, We Must Respond (2025), Moments: Wait (2024), Simple (2022), Homecoming (Live) (2021), Revival’s In The Air (Live) (2020), and many more. Each album carries a unique theme and features some of the most well-recognized artists in the genre. This year, Bethel Music was GRAMMY® nominated for the song “Holy Forever” feat. Jenn Johnson and CeCe Winans, and in 2024, won the Dove award for “Holy Forever” for “Best Song of the Year.” In 2021, the label was nominated for six Dove Awards, and another 11 in 2022, spanning across categories like “Songwriter of the Year,” “Worship Album of the Year,” and “Inspirational and Rock/Contemporary Song of the Year.”

Since forming, Bethel Music has broken records, ranking in CCLI's (Christian Copyright Licensing International’s) Top 25 songs since 2013. Their song, “Goodness of God,” was ranked #1 for over three years. "This Is Amazing Grace" has ranked in the Top 25 songs since 2014; "No Longer Slaves" since 2016; and "The Lion and the Lamb" since 2017. In addition, "Reckless Love" has appeared in the Top 10 since 2018, and "Living Hope" in the Top 10 since 2019. Hitting a new stride over the last few years, Bethel Music has continually ranked at #6 in the Top 10 radio market share.

To learn more, visit https://bethelmusic.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. Ask about the VIP/Meet & Greet Package available for this show.

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About the Florida Theatre

Give Blood with LifeSouth and Save Local Lives this Holiday Season

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Free Holiday Gift for all donors through December 31

WHAT:

This holiday season, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is thanking blood donors in Northeast Florida with special promotions during the holiday season. Unlike other blood donor centers, blood donated at LifeSouth stays in the donor’s community, allowing locals to save local lives daily.

December Donor Promotions:

Now through December 15: T-shirt for all donors and a $40 e-gift card for platelet, plasma, and double red donors.
December 16–31: Fuzzy socks and a $25 e-gift card for all donors, and a $40 e-gift card for platelet donors.
December 24 only: Free holiday ornament for all donors.

Blood donated at LifeSouth stays in the donor’s community, allowing locals to save local lives daily. During this time of year, the need for blood at local hospitals increases, while nationally donations decline due to travel, busy schedules, and seasonal illness. LifeSouth encourages all eligible and first-time donors to give this holiday season and help support our community’s hospitals and patients.

LifeSouth is the primary blood provider to many Northeast Florida hospitals, including Baptist Medical Center Beaches, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Baptist Medical Center South, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health North and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Donations made with LifeSouth directly support patients at these hospitals.

Visual assets can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qfau6ldol6vean5v5oyqa/ACStD8A040nNRN0RI2zkD4I?rlkey=wbvuduur6yj5p2zthrozaghhh&st=cpmiihgo&dl=0

Donors can visit a LifeSouth donor center or bloodmobile. To find a convenient donation location, visit lifesouth.org or call 888-795-2707. Donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental permission, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good health. A photo ID is required.

WHERE + WHEN:

LifeSouth Community Blood Center

7840 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Open Monday-Sunday: Go to lifesouth.org for hours

Upcoming December Blood Drives in Northeast Florida:

UF Health Jacksonville
December 22, 2025 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
December 23, 2025 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
653 8th St, Jacksonville, FL
Located on the bloodmobile near the LRC Atrium
Promotions: $25 e-gift card and fuzzy socks for donors

WHO:

A Representative from Life South is available to talk about the importance of giving blood during the holidays, how donating will save lives in their community and how giving blood is also good for the donor’s health.

JEA Receives $20 Million State Grant to Rebuild Normandy Village Wastewater System

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

The Florida Department of Commerce has awarded a $20 million grant to JEA on behalf of Normandy Village to support the rebuilding of the community’s wastewater infrastructure. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the award today at a press conference in Sebring, Fla., as part of $311 million in grants distributed to projects across the state.

In September, a court appointed JEA as receiver of the Normandy Village Utilities water and sewer systems to ensure safe and reliable service for approximately 1,325 customers. Since that time, JEA has been providing water and wastewater services to the community while operating systems in need of significant repairs and long-term investment.

“We appreciate the support from Gov. DeSantis and Department of Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly as we assist in rebuilding the Normandy Village community,” said JEA Managing Director and CEO Vickie Cavey. “This grant will go a long way toward helping us support critical infrastructure and safeguard public health and the environment."

JEA is receiving the grant through the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery. The funding will support critical infrastructure improvements that protect the environment and the health and safety of Normandy Village customers.

Since being appointed receiver of the Normandy Village system, JEA’s assessments have identified critical deficiencies, including failing gravity mains, compromised manholes and a wastewater treatment facility that is no longer viable for safe rehabilitation.

PulteGroup Northeast Florida’s 4th Annual Building Hope Golf Tournament raises record $224,331

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Katie Robinson-Hensley (904) 648-6196 or Katie.Hensley@Pulte.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PulteGroup Northeast Florida’s 4^th Annual Building Hope

Golf Tournament raises record $224,331

Benefitting Rethreaded, Five Star Veteran Center,

Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County and Isaiah 117 House

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 18, 2025) – The Northeast Florida Division of PulteGroup, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, proudly announces the company’s fourth annual Building Hope Golf Tournament at The Palencia Club raised a record $224,331 for four charitable organizations – Rethreaded, Five Star Veterans Center, the Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County and Isaiah 117 House.

“We enjoyed an incredible day of golf, and we are delighted to support four outstanding organizations that are dedicated to making a difference,” said Justin Cook, President of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division. “This event would not be possible without the amazing support of our generous sponsors, golfers, volunteers and the incredible staff at The Palencia Club. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this event a tremendous success.”

Presented by PulteGroup, the Building Hope Golf Tournament sponsors included Vallencourt Construction Company, Woodsman Kitchen and Floors, Huber & Associates Roofing, and Simpson Strong-Tie, among others.

For more information about PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division, visit www.pulte.com/jacksonville.

Photography

1. PulteGroup Northeast Florida President Justin Cook presents check to Rethreaded. From left, Kristin Keen, Justin Cook, Tina Smith and Lisa Kiral.

2. PulteGroup Northeast Florida President Justin Cook presents check Five Star Veterans Center. From left, Amanda Mills, Justin Cook and John Bear.

3. PulteGroup Northeast Florida President Justin Cook presents check to the Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County’s Emily Friedman.

4. PulteGroup Northeast Florida President Justin Cook presents check to Isaiah 117 House’s Shante McCleod.

About PulteGroup

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Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament raises $533,000 for the Monique Burr Foundation

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

MONIQUE BURR FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

MBF CONTACT: Tanya Ramos-Puig (904) 642-0210 or Tanya@mbfpreventioneducation.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf

Tournament raises $533,000 for the Monique Burr Foundation

Funds support programs to keep children safe from bullying, cyberbullying, and abuse

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 17, 2025) – The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF) announces its 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament, presented by AT&T, Jax Utilities Management, Lennar, and MJC Land Development, raised $533,000 to support the development and delivery of MBF Prevention Education Programs. Since 1994, the tournament has raised more than $6.7 million for MBF.

“It is one of the greatest honors to witness the roots of Monique’s legacy bloom into the powerful force it is today,” said Edward Burr, MBF Founder and Board Chairman. “What began as a vision grounded in compassion has grown into a lifeline—one that has served, empowered, and protected countless children. Every young life touched is a reminder of Monique’s enduring impact and the extraordinary community that continues to carry her mission forward.”

The annual tournament offered corporate teams and individuals the opportunity to golf with professional golfers at The Palencia Club in St. Augustine. Funds raised from the tournament benefit MBF Prevention Education programs, which are designed to educate and empower youth, equipping them with strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to challenges such as bullying, online exploitation, child abuse, trafficking, and other types of victimization.

“MBF has achieved yet another year of transformational impact, reaching 18.5 million youth this year. said Tanya Ramos-Puig, MBF Chief Executive Officer. “Children and teens served through our prevention education programs are now educated and empowered to recognize and report child abuse, bullying, online dangers, exploitation, and trafficking. This is a remarkable milestone, and it’s a testament to the dedication and passion of every individual who supported and sponsored this event. Together we will continue to prioritize the safety of our most vulnerable citizens—children!"

MBF has increased the number of children served by over 2 million since last year. Thanks to partners, supporters, and advocates, MBF has reached more than 18 million youth and trained nearly 10,000 facilitators, reaching 42 states and territories including Puerto Rico and six countries. To learn more about MBF’s comprehensive, evidence-based prevention programs, visit www.mbfpreventioneducation.org.

MBF is grateful for its 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament event sponsors. Without their support, this event would not be possible. Sponsors include Title Sponsor: Dream Finders Homes; Presenting Sponsors: AT&T, Jax Utilities Management, Lennar, and MJC Land Development; Platinum Sponsors: Coastal Oak Wealth Advisors, Foley and Lardner, GreenPointe Holdings, Hampton Golf, Impact Landscaping, Lee Mar Building and Construction, Palencia Club, and Perry Homes; Gold Sponsors: Blue Stream Fiber, Club Car, Cross Lake Partners, Ernst & Young LLP, ETM (England-Thims & Miller), EW Consultants, Firethorn, FirstService Residential, Jacobsen Textron, Kearney Companies, KPMG, Pepsi Co, State Farm | Denny Doyle, Taylor Morrison, Tito's Vodka, and Wells Brothers Construction; Silver Sponsors: Ahead, AndersonOrd Apparel, Auld & White Constructors, Baldwin Group, Barraco and Associates, Basham & Lucas Design Group, Blue Streak Telecommunications, Callaway Golf, Carlton Construction, Champion Brands, Clockwork Marketing, Coastal Engineering Associates, Inc., Cotton and Company, David Weekley Homes, Donna Feldman and Mo Krausman, Doumar Insurance & Financial Services, Driver McAfee Hawthorne & Diebenow PLLC, Drummond Press, Fiorentino Group, FMSBonds, Hill Ward Henderson, Iseley Fugitt Attorneys, James Hardie Building Products, KingSouth Builders, Smith McKee Construction, Lucido and Associates, Metro Development Group, Morgan Stanley | The Lighthouse Wealth Management Group, Rogers Towers, Southern Glazers, Superior Construction, Sysco Foods, Wrathell, Hunt and Associates, and Yellow Dawg Striping.

Photography:

The 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament raised $533,000 to support the Monique Burr Foundation for Children. From left, MG Orender, Jim Furyk, Edward Burr, and Mark McCumber.

About the Monique Burr Foundation for Children

The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1997 by Edward E. Burr in honor of his late wife, Monique Burr, a devoted child advocate. MBF Prevention Education Programs include school-based programs MBF Child Safety Matters^® (Grades Pre-K – 5) and MBF Teen Safety Matters^® (Grades 6 – 12), and extra-curricular programs MBF Athlete Safety Matters^® (Grades K – 12) for youth athletes, and MBF After-School Safety Matters^® (Grades K – 8) for after-school and youth-serving organizations. The programs are comprehensive, evidence-based, trauma-informed primary prevention programs that educate and empower children and adults with information and strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to abuse, bullying, cyberbullying, digital dangers, exploitation, and human trafficking. MBF Programs have been delivered to millions of children and teens throughout the U.S. and internationally.

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Acosta Group and Muscular Dystrophy Association Mark 40 Years of Partnership and $102 Million Raised as MDA Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Consumer brands and grocery retailers nationwide join Acosta Group to support MDA

Jacksonville, Fla. – (Dec. 17, 2025) – Acosta Group and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)
are proudly celebrating 40 years of partnership dedicated to empowering people living with
neuromuscular diseases. This milestone coincides with MDA’s 75th anniversary, recognizing
decades of leadership in accelerating research, supporting multidisciplinary care nationwide, and
advocating for families to have access to healthcare, education, travel, and more. Together with
many of the nation's leading consumer brands and grocery retailers, Acosta Group has raised over
$102 million to support critical research and care.
The partnership began in 1985 with the launch of the “Aisles of Smiles” campaign, which united
leading consumer brands and retailers nationwide to raise awareness and funding for MDA. Over
four decades, Acosta Group associates have supported MDA’s mission to live longer, more
independent lives.
“We are exceptionally proud to celebrate this milestone with Muscular Dystrophy Association as we
elevate our efforts to build awareness, challenge stigmas, and create opportunities for people of all
abilities,”?said Brian Wynne, president and CEO of Acosta Group.?“Our partnership with MDA reflects
the passion and dedication of our associates, brand owner clients, and retail customers who have
given so much of their time and resources to support these efforts. Together, we have made a
meaningful difference for families living with neuromuscular diseases, and we look forward to the
opportunities ahead to help advance MDA’s mission.”
“Acosta Group’s partnership has been a source of strength for families living with any of the more
than 300 neuromuscular conditions we support for four decades. Their teams, clients, and retail
partners have shown time and again what it looks like to lead with passion, purpose, and
community,” said Erin Feliciano, VP Corporate Partnerships at MDA. “As we celebrate the Muscular
Dystrophy Association’s 75th anniversary, we are deeply grateful for the $102 million in impact and
even more appreciative of the countless moments of hope, progress, and possibility this partnership
has made possible. Together, we are shaping a future where every person living with a
neuromuscular condition can live longer, grow stronger, and pursue their dreams with confidence.”
ANNUAL AISLES OF SMILES EVENT RAISES $658,000
A highlight of the anniversary year was the annual “Aisles of Smiles” event in Monterey, Calif. Over
250 guests attended the August event, including Acosta Group senior leaders, clients, and retail
partners, for an evening centered on strengthening relationships and building community. In
partnership with 8 grocers and 33 leading CPG brands, the event raised $658,000 for MDA through
in-store and online shopper marketing campaigns.
“The Aisles of Smiles event demonstrates the incredible impact we can achieve when brands,
retailers, and communities unite behind the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s mission,” said Doug
2
Vanderhorst, Senior Director, Western Region at Acosta Sales & Marketing. “It’s inspiring to see so
many partners come together for a cause that touches countless lives. The generosity and
commitment shown by everyone involved truly reflect the spirit of collaboration and compassion that
defines our work with MDA.”
Acosta Group congratulates MDA on 75 years of leadership, innovation, and hope. Together, the
two organizations remain committed to building on this legacy and making an even greater
difference in the years ahead.
ABOUT ACOSTA GROUP
Acosta Group is a collective of the most trusted retail, marketing, and foodservice agencies
empowering brands and retailers to win in the modern marketplace. By delivering transformative,
commerce-focused solutions and more than 98 years of expertise, Acosta Group connects the
company’s partners with people at every point in the consumer journey.
Comprised of Acosta, ActionLink, ADW, CORE Foodservice, CROSSMARK, Mosaic, Premium
Retail Services, and Product Connections, Acosta Group understands and anticipates evolving
consumer needs, fueling accelerated performance to connect tomorrow’s commerce today. For
more information, please visit acosta.group.
ABOUT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States
for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions. For 75
years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating support and
inclusion of families living with neuromuscular disease. MDA's mission is to empower the people we
serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more, visit mda.org and follow MDA on
Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube

HCA Florida Royal Pines Emergency Opens in Oakleaf Plantation

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Orange Park, Florida – December 16, 2025 – HCA Florida Healthcare is proud to share its new freestanding emergency room located at 1093 Oakleaf Plantation Parkway in Orange Park, FL, is now open. The new HCA Florida Royal Pines Emergency (ER), which consists of 10,860 square feet of building, is located conveniently along the First Coast Expressway (State Road 23) in Clay County. The freestanding ER is an extension of Orange Park Hospital’s emergency services and will serve the communities of Oakleaf Plantation, Clay County and Duval County.

“Our new HCA Florida Royal Pines freestanding emergency room in Oakleaf Plantation is a vital addition that significantly enhances access to emergency care for our neighbors in Clay County,” said Chad Patrick, Chief Executive Officer of HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. “As part of HCA Florida Healthcare, the largest system in the state, this facility ensures our community has seamless access to the comprehensive, statewide resources of a major network.”

The new HCA Florida Royal Pines Emergency will provide:

Emergency care services
10 private rooms
One Trauma Bay
A dedicated pediatric treatment room
Minimally invasive diagnostics
- CT scan
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
Board-certified emergency physicians
Emergency room nurses
Easy access to parking
24-7 availability
Free transportation to HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital if hospital care is needed

“The opening of HCA Florida Royal Pines Emergency represents our commitment to growing with the community and ensuring prompt access to critical services,” said Dr. Michael Euwema, Medical Director of Emergency Services for HCA Florida Royal Pines Emergency. “Our team is excited to offer our patients the Oakleaf area the highest quality emergency services, backed by the comprehensive resources and medical expertise of HCA Florida Healthcare.”

Construction, combined with purchasing new equipment, cost approximately $26 million. The project was developed in partnership with Charles Perry Partners, Inc. (CPPI), with architects from Hereford Dooley Architects, Inc.

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About HCA Florida Healthcare in Jacksonville

Support for Gateway Jax's Transformative Pearl Square Project Grows with N7 Incentive Package Approval

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Developer to bring a 15-story tower, including a full-service Publix and multifamily housing to Downtown

JACKSONVILLE, FL – December 17, 2025 –– Gateway Jax, a Jacksonville-based commercial real estate development firm, today announced the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) Board has approved a public-private partnership package that advances plans for the N7 block of Pearl Square. The package supports the creation of a $148 million high-rise project, located at 119 Beaver Street, that will deliver a full-service Publix grocery store and significant residential density to Downtown Jacksonville. The project is expected to add $2 million in annual property tax revenue to the City of Jacksonville.

The N7 block comprises a 15-story, 259-unit multifamily building featuring 450 parking spaces and 37,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, anchored by a 32,000-square-foot Publix grocery store. This approval directly aligns with the DIA’s Downtown Business Investment District (BID) plan goals to increase Downtown housing and secure a full-service grocer, addressing food desert concerns in the urban core and adjacent neighborhoods, like Springfield.

The approved package fully complies with the DIA’s standard High Rise Incentive program, and marks the first development to be approved through the program without any requests for deviation or special considerations to move forward. The City of Jacksonville will participate in the long-term financial performance of the N7 block once it delivers, through an innovative, first-of-its-kind partnership in which the City will monitor the project’s performance and share in financial gains, which further aligns the public and private interests in the project.

"Gateway Jax is proud to partner with the City of Jacksonville and the DIA on this truly transformative development," said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax. "This block is much more than a collection of apartments and retail; it is a catalyst for economic growth, a significant step forward in food security for the area and a testament to the power of public-private collaboration toward shared goals. We are delivering the housing and full-service grocer that Downtown has needed for decades, utilizing a standardized, fiscally sound incentive program to make it happen.”

By undertaking this project, Gateway Jax will transform a previously non-tax-paying property into a significant asset, producing at least $2 million in annual tax revenue for the City. With the addition of the N7 block, Pearl Square will reach its planned buildout of approximately 1,250 multifamily units, translating to an estimated 2,000 new residents. This population threshold provides the critical mass needed to support a full-service grocery store—an amenity Downtown Jacksonville has long lacked.

The incentive package, which is typical for a development of this size, includes both a Recapture Enhanced Value (REV) Grant and a Completion Grant. These grants are only disbursed after a project is finished and begins contributing to the City's tax rolls. Each grant operates under different terms.

The REV Grant: This $21.41 million grant is paid as a rebate of 75% of the incremental property taxes generated by the parcel over 17 years. Crucially, the rebate is only paid after the developer pays the year’s property tax bill; the City benefits from tax income prior to paying the grant. The City retains the remaining 25% of the incremental tax, ensuring a net positive tax revenue gain compared to the current, vacant site.
The Completion Grant: This $28.25 million grant is paid after the developer successfully completes the multifamily units and Publix is open for business.

The city is projected to fully recoup its investment in the project and yield a surplus. Over a 20-year period, the City is anticipated to achieve a minimum return on investment (ROI) of 1.1x, based on City underwriting.

“The truly exciting piece of this project is that the City of Jacksonville shares in the project's success: if we exceed expectations, so does the City,” stated Moll. “Importantly, our investors will not receive any incentives until the property is complete and officially added to the tax rolls.”

"The N7 development represents a monumental step forward in the revitalization of our urban core,” said Colin Tarbert, CEO of DIA. “This project will bring hundreds of new residents to Downtown and deliver a transformative retail amenity with the inclusion of a full-service grocer at the heart of Downtown — something the community has long needed. Through our partnership with Gateway Jax, Pearl Square will play a critical role in strengthening Downtown’s livability, walkability, and long-term economic vitality.”

The project is expected to break ground in 2026 and deliver in 2029. For more information on Gateway Jax and the Pearl Square project, including leasing opportunities, visit pearlsquare.com.

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About Gateway Jax

Gateway Jax is a Jacksonville-based investment and development firm, created and sponsored by JWB Real Estate Capital and DLP Capital. Founded in 2022, its leadership brings decades of experience in urban real estate development across North America, focusing on developing dynamic, interconnected, and vibrant projects in walkable, mixed-use environments.

Gateway Jax is committed to working in collaboration with residents and communities to build future-forward ways of working, living and playing. Learn more at gatewayjax.com.

About the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA)
The Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) serves as the City of Jacksonville’s community redevelopment agency and economic development arm for Downtown. Through stewardship and collaboration, the DIA drives investment, facilitates growth, and fosters community to create a vibrant Downtown for all. Guided by a nine-member board, the DIA advances its mission through strategic capital investments, planning, marketing, and public-private partnerships. Learn more at https://dia.jacksonville.gov/.

Teaming Up to Make Waves: RadiFi Credit Union and Jacksonville University Athletics Announce Strategic Partnership

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville institutions enter sponsorship agreement to drive community engagement and student-athlete programs

JACKSONVILLE Fla. — December 17, 2025 — Radifi Credit Union is now a Proud Partner of Jacksonville University (JU) Athletics, solidifying an exciting new partnership between two longstanding Jacksonville institutions. Through this collaboration, RadiFi will team up with JU Athletics for in-game activations and on-campus community engagement, alongside recognition across JU’s athletic programs.

The three-year partnership includes several high-impact initiatives aimed at supporting student athletes and the broader Jacksonville community. RadiFi will participate in JU’s annual Charter Day celebration, sponsor all student-athlete community service initiatives and host literacy programs designed specifically for student-athletes. A “Small Business Spotlight” will direct attention to a small business during every home, regular-season men’s and women’s basketball game. This partnership also creates opportunities for RadiFi to engage student-athletes as they prepare for life after graduation, such as through Career Design & Exploration Center workshops, job postings and one-on-one interviews with upcoming graduates.

These programs reflect both organizations’ dedication to fostering educational and personal development opportunities for the next generation of Jacksonville leaders.

"RadiFi Credit Union is all about helping our members 'make waves' in their financial lives. Partnering with JU Athletics — home of the Dolphins — is a natural extension of that mission," said John Servos, CEO and President of RadiFi Credit Union. "We are excited to support student athletes, engage with the broader JU community and work together to serve Northeast Florida in meaningful ways."

As part of the sponsorship, RadiFi will also be recognized through the “RadiFi Ridiculous Play of the Game,” highlighting standout athletic performances on social media across all JU sports. Additionally, RadiFi will serve as the sponsor of the men’s basketball game on January 24, 2026, in celebration of Small Business Night. This recognition builds on the credit union’s commitment to the region’s economy through banking services, including business lending.

"We are grateful to RadiFi Credit Union for committing to the JU community in such a meaningful way," said Rick Canter, Associate Vice President and Deputy Athletic Director. "With both organizations sharing a rich history of serving Jacksonville for more than 90 years, this partnership strengthens our ability to prepare our student-athletes for a lifetime of success on and off the field."

Fans and community members can learn more about Jacksonville University Athletics and explore ways to engage with RadiFi Credit Union at Jacksonville University - Official Athletics Website and RadiFicu.org.

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About RadiFi Credit Union:
Established in 1935, RadiFi Credit Union, formerly known as JAX Federal Credit Union, has been a trusted financial partner for nearly 45,000 members across Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Baker, and Nassau Counties. RadiFi Credit Union is committed to empowering its members to realize their hopes and dreams through tailored financial solutions and personalized service. With eight branch locations, RadiFi offers a robust digital banking platform and access to over 5,000 Shared Branching locations and nearly 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide.

Call for Artists: State of the South Pop-Up Art Exhibit

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

MDC invites artists to participate in a pop-up art exhibit presented during MDC’s State
of the South convening in Jacksonville, Florida in March 2026. The convening is focused
on a critical regional theme—how Southern communities are responding and building
resilient systems and practices to address climate and development pressures.
The working title of the exhibit is “Climate, Community, and Culture.” We will exhibit
creative work that reflects, questions, or responds to these prompts:
? Cultural erasure caused by development and climate pressures
? Community organizing and resiliency in the face of natural disasters and
displacement
Who Can Apply:
We welcome submissions and commissions from emerging and established artists
located in Northeast Florida and coastal areas of Georgia and South Carolina.
We are especially interested in featuring the work of artists with underrepresented
identities, including Black and Brown, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, disabled, and working-class
artists.
What We’re Looking For
We invite:
? Existing artworks that speak to the exhibit theme, and/or
? Proposals for commissions (new pieces created specifically for this convening)
We are seeking a mix of mediums for the exhibit, including but not limited to:
? Painting, drawing, printmaking
? Photography
? Sculpture
? Fiber art
? Digital art and new media
? Video, sound, mixed-media
? Performance art, including dance and music
Work must be exhibition-ready and suitable for a temporary indoor space. For 2-D
artwork, this means that it is framed or is otherwise ready to hang. Size limit for 2-D
artwork is 4 feet x 5 feet. For sculpture, height and width of 5 feet is the maximum, and
if platforms are needed for exhibition, please plan to provide those. For audio or video
submissions, please be prepared to provide methods for viewing or listening, including a
projector and/or sound equipment. For performance art, the space will accommodate up
to 4 people for dance, spoken word, or music.
Artists may submit up to three existing works and/or one proposal for a commission.
Artist Participation & Stipend
All selected artists will receive a $1,000 stipend to support travel expenses and time
associated with participating in two required events in Jacksonville, FL:
1. Artist Lunch & Planning Session
January 22nd, 12:00–3:00 PM
2. Exhibit Opening Reception
March 10th, 5:00–8:00 PM
All participating artists will also receive free admission to the State of the South
convening in Jacksonville, taking place March 10–12, 2026.
Additional Compensation for Commissions
Artists who are selected to commission an artwork specifically for this convening will
also receive a $2,500 commission fee to cover time and materials, for a total
compensation of $3,500.
How to Submit
Please use this form to submit the following:
? Artist name & short bio (100–150 words)
? Images or videos of work you plan to submit (or of previous work if submitting a
commission proposal): Please include up to 5 images or videos of existing or
previous work. For images, please use .jpg or .png files. Please title images and
videos in this format: LastName_FirstName1, LastName_FirstName2, etc.
? For submissions: Brief statement (written or video links, 2 paragraphs or 2
minutes maximum) describing how your work connects to the exhibit theme
? For commissions: Please include a 1-page concept proposal for the piece and
images or videos of previous work. If seeking a commission, submit images or
videos of previous examples (up to 5) of similarly commissioned artwork. Include
date and a brief description of previously or similarly/commissioned pieces.
? Website or social media links (optional)
Timeline
? Pre-submission Q&A (optional): Thursday, December 18
th
, 12PM (register here)
? Submission deadline: Tuesday, December 30th, 11:59PM
? Artist notifications: Friday, January 9th, by 5PM
? Planning Lunch in Jacksonville, FL (required): Thursday, January 22nd, 12–3 PM
? Exhibit Opening in Jacksonville, FL (required): Tuesday, March 10, 5–8 PM
? State of the South Event (optional): Wednesday-Thursday, March 11–12
? Artwork delivery and removal dates: TBD; exhibition and delivery logistics will be
discussed on January 22nd
.
? Exhibition duration: TBD, not longer than a month.
Terms of Ownership, Sale, and Use of Work
The work submitted or created will remain the property of the artist. Artists will be able
to sell their pieces and keep 100% of their profit and will not pay a sales percentage to
MDC. Artists will be welcome to offer their work for sale at the exhibit but will be
responsible for processing the sale. MDC reserves the right to use images or videos of
the work for promotional purposes for State of the South and MDC programming (for
example, on social media, presentations, fliers, and reports), but any additional uses will
be negotiated with the artist. Artist’s work will always be credited in promotional use.
Additional information about sales and liability:
• Each artist is responsible for arranging the sales of their pieces if they're available
for sale, paying sales tax, transporting, and removing their own work.
• A gallerist will hang or install the work, and artists will be responsible for artwork
removal at the end of the exhibit.
• The exhibit partners assume no liability for loss or damage. Artists are not
required to obtain their own insurance coverage. If the artist desires/needs that
protection, it is their responsibility to obtain it. Artists are responsible for their
artwork during transit, exhibition, and storage. The collaborative partners are not
responsible for damage, loss, or theft of artwork while on display or in transit.
This exhibit will serve as a creative and communal space within the convening—one that
honors Southern stories of resilience, belonging, memory, and possibility. We look
forward to reviewing your work and welcoming you into this collective conversation.
Questions? Contact us at stateofthesouth@mdcinc.org
About MDC and State of the South
A nonprofit founded in 1967, MDC is a regional community and capacity-building
organization rooted in North Carolina that works across a 13-state region to create a
South where all people thrive with lives of meaning, dignity, and community. We equip
Southern communities, especially those that have been historically excluded, with the
necessary capacity, partnerships, and influence to challenge systemic inequities and
build an equitable and inclusive South.
MDC’s State of the South brings people together to build networks for advocacy,
systemic change, and equity across the South. Co-designed with partners and
community, convenings explore art, data, policy, and funding approaches that tell
Southern stories of community and resistance and address persistent
inequities. MDC’s 2025 State of the South Report details learnings from five
recent convenings across the region and includes a powerful Call to Action—things local
communities, policymakers, and funders can do to create a thriving South.

Brooks Rehabilitation Announces $68 Million Expansions to Enhance Patient Care and Meet Growing Demand

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla., December 16, 2025 – Brooks Rehabilitation is proud to announce a significant strategic growth initiative designed to meet the increasing need for its specialized physical rehabilitation services. Scheduled to begin in 2026, the non-profit organization will undertake three major construction projects representing a capital investment of approximately $68 million and the creation of 150 new jobs. These projects include a significant expansion of the Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital - Bartram Campus, an expansion of the Orange Park outpatient clinic and a project to double the capacity of Helen's House, Brooks’ family and patient housing.

“At Brooks, we firmly believe in a patient-centered approach to care, which includes supporting families and communities throughout their recovery process,” said Doug Baer, president and CEO of Brooks Rehabilitation. “This substantial investment reflects our unwavering commitment to providing world-class rehabilitation solutions and ensuring that every individual has access to the highest quality rehabilitation services.”

The largest of the three initiatives is the expansion of the Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital – Bartram Campus. With a projected investment of $47 million, this project will add 48 new beds to the facility with the option to expand in the future. This expansion is critical for accommodating patients recovering from complex conditions such as brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, strokes, transplants or other disabling illnesses. The hospital will also add an Innovation Studio, a new area for both therapists and patients to utilize the most cutting-edge rehabilitation technology. In addition to technologies to facilitate recovery, this Studio will feature different smart home and assistive technologies to help ease a patients transition back to home after their injury. Funding for the Innovation Studio was made possible by generous donations from a grateful patient.

Support from family and friends is essential to recovery and that is why Brooks is also investing approximately $16 million to double the size of Helen’s House. This hospitality house, located across the street from Brooks’ University campus, offers affordable, temporary lodging to patients and their caregivers who travel across the country and internationally for the expertise of the Brooks clinical teams. By expanding this facility, Brooks ensures that more families can remain close to their loved ones during the rehabilitation journey.

Additionally, the Orange Park outpatient clinic will undergo a $5.4 million expansion. This project will add 7,000 sq ft. to the existing operations, with 2,100 sq. ft. for a new pediatric feeding and swallowing clinic. The State of Florida provided a portion of the funding for this specialized service to fulfill an unmet need in pediatric care.

Construction is also continuing for Brooks’ new cutting-edge, 80,000-square-foot inpatient rehabilitation hospital on Mayo Clinic’s Phoenix campus in Arizona. That hospital is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026.

All three Jacksonville projects will begin construction in 2026 with plans to be completed in 2027 and early 2028. Brooks will continue to evaluate options to expand or add facilities over the next several years in the Jacksonville market to keep pace with the rapid growth in the area.

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About Brooks Rehabilitation

Brooks Rehabilitation, a nonprofit headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., has been a comprehensive system of care for physical rehabilitation for more than 50 years. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the best rehabilitation hospital in Florida and top 20 in the nation, Brooks operates three inpatient hospitals in Florida and will open a new hospital on the Mayo Clinic campus in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2026. Through its commitment to innovation, Brooks is at the forefront of cutting-edge research, education and technology advancing the science of rehabilitation. Brooks provides outpatient services in more than 50 locations, offers home health care, skilled nursing, assisted living and memory care along with community programs and services to improve the quality of life for people living with physical disabilities.

Jim Moran Institute Jacksonville: Applications Open for Spring 2026 Small Business Executive Program (SBEP)

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship is accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Small Business Executive Program (SBEP) in Jacksonville.

The SBEP is a no-cost, premier executive education opportunity designed specifically for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and presidents of small businesses seeking to strengthen their strategic leadership and organizational performance.

Stephanie Royal, director of the Jim Moran Institute’s Jacksonville office, emphasized the value of the program, stating, “We are pleased to open applications for the Spring 2026 Small Business Executive Program. This program offers practical, immediately applicable training that supports long-term business success. We look forward to working with the next group of Jacksonville’s small business leaders.”

The SBEP provides participants with practical tools to enhance long-term business growth, improve operational decision-making, and develop comprehensive strategic plans. The program also offers valuable peer interaction and access to the Jim Moran Institute’s statewide network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and business experts.

Important Dates for SBEP Class XIX (Spring 2026):

· Applications Due: December 10, 2025

· Notice of Acceptance: December 20, 2025

· Program Sessions: January 15 – March 5, 2026 (Five sessions held in Jacksonville)

Participants accepted into the program will engage in facilitated discussions, growth-oriented exercises, and applied learning sessions designed to strengthen entrepreneurial management skills.

About the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship

The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship cultivates, trains and inspires entrepreneurial leaders through world-class executive education, applied training, public recognition and leading-edge research.

Jim Moran was an automotive pioneer and an entrepreneur at heart, who at the age of 7, sold soda pop at sandlot baseball diamonds in Chicago. With a career that spanned more than six decades, he built an amazing chronicle of achievements in the automobile industry.

His vision for the Jim Moran Institute was to provide opportunities that would help others become more successful business owners. A 1995 contribution from Jim and Jan Moran and JM Family Enterprises established the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship at the Florida State University College of Business. Since 2011, further enhancements to the Jim Moran Institute and its outreach have been made possible by Jan Moran and The Jim Moran Foundation. For more information, visit https://jimmoraninstitute.fsu.edu.

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Big Blue Marble Academy Bartram Park is Now Accepting ELC Vouchers

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

The vouchers, in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Duval, make early
childcare programs more affordable for eligible families
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (December 2, 2025) – Big Blue Marble Academy (BBMA), a
leader in early childhood education with nearly 100 schools across nine states, is now
eligible to accept vouchers from the Early Learning Coalition of Duval.
The vouchers provide subsidies to mitigate the cost of tuition for eligible students
whose families are at or below a certain income level, adjusted for household size.
“We’re proud to be an ELC Voucher partner as it helps us to provide exceptional
child care and education to young families, regardless of their income,” said BBMA
Bartram Park Director, Kelsey Blackford.
BBMA Bartram Park also offers a Voluntary Prekindergarten program for families
with an approved certificate from the Early Learning Coalition of Duval. With
openings across all ages, this program is from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and follows the Duval
County school calendar. BBMA also offers an affordable wrap program – extending
the program for any hours and days the center is open.
“We love serving this community and are excited for the new families that this will
allow us to welcome into our school,” Blackford explained.
BBMA Bartram Park, located at 13926 Village Lake Circle in Jacksonville, is a School
Readiness Provider and Gold Seal Program, accredited by the National Early
Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA). The school is open Monday through
Friday from 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Interested parents can learn more and schedule a
tour here or by calling (904) 262-7788.
About Big Blue Marble Academy
Big Blue Marble Academy operates 93 schools serving more than 14,000 students,
providing early care, preschool, after-school care, and summer camp for children
ages 6 weeks to twelve years. BBMA nurtures little minds through a robust
preschool curriculum that ensures children are developmentally, socially, and
emotionally prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Its emphasis on global
awareness and character development teaches children invaluable lessons, growing
big hearts that are ready and eager to take on the world. To learn more, visit:
bbmacademy.com

Jacksonville, Game 1 of the Cosmic Baseball Takeover Tour sold out faster than the speed of black light, so they’re running it back!

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With all the buzz around Cosmic Baseball touching down at VyStar Ballpark, Game 1 sold out in hours! Cosmic Baseball doesn’t want to leave anyone on standby, so they have added a second game on March 20, 2026! Fans are encouraged to join the Cosmic Ticket lottery as soon as possible by visiting chilipeppersbaseball.com/cosmic-lottery/.

As seen on The Today Show, ABC News, Sports Illustrated, MLB Network, and many more, Cosmic Baseball is flipping America’s favorite pastime on its head with an electrifying, glow-in-the-dark twist. Fans can watch the Chili Peppers and Glow Mojis take the field under black light in a jaw-dropping spectacle that’s part baseball, part neon-fueled party, and 100% unforgettable. Neon uniforms, UV-reactive baseballs, and electrifying entertainment are all things fans can expect when joining the tour in 2026. Every game starts with a pre-game block party for fans to get player autographs, shop merch, and listen to live music!

Information regarding dates, ticketing, and more will be announced soon. Fans looking to stay up to date with news regarding the The Ballpark at America First Square tour stop should follow each team on social media, and head to our website. Sample media and staff contact information can be found below.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Sponsors Family Support Services’ Be an Angel Campaign

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride at (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Sponsors Family Support Services’ Be an Angel Campaign

Metro office provides gifts and donations for local children in foster care

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 11, 2025) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty announces the company’s Metro Offices of Avondale/Ortega and San Marco/San Jose took part in Family Support Services of Duval and Nassau Counties’ annual Be an Angel holiday drive for the fifth consecutive year. The initiative is an effort to make the holidays extra special for First Coast children in foster care.

The company’s Realtors and employees purchased gifts from a child’s wish list or made a monetary donation so that the children receive holiday presents they would not otherwise be able to enjoy this time of year. The Metro offices team collected and purchased gifts for 50 children in foster care in Duval County.

“We are so proud of our Metro team and their continued support of the Be an Angel campaign to ensure all children have a gift under the tree,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “One of our greatest joys as a company is supporting charitable organizations that make a positive difference in the lives of many local children and families.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Realtor Kimberly Waterhouse leads the real estate firm’s Be an Angel participation.

"Every child deserves to feel loved at the holidays,” said Waterhouse. “This is more than buying gifts. It's ensuring that a child feels the magic of Christmas and knows their community cares about them. It is our pleasure to bring smiles, love, and laughter to their day."

Waterhouse also secured a continued donation from the Gray Family Foundation that will help fulfill Christmas wishes for an additional 204 children served by Family Support Services. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is among Family Support Services’ top donors supporting the Be an Angel campaign – the agency’s largest giving program of the year.

“We deeply appreciate the partnership with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty and the Gray Family Foundation for their ongoing support of our community’s children in foster care through Be an Angel,” said Leigh Ann Luttrell, Community Engagement Manager for Family Support Services Duval and Nassau Counties. “Each year they provide enormous joy to these children and teens, and their partnership is an important part of our program success through the year.”

For more information about Family Support Services, visit www.familysupport.org. For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com or FLNetworkRealty.com.

Photography

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty’s Metro Offices purchased holiday gifts for Family Support Services’ Be an Angel campaign. From left, Kayla Garza, Leigh Ann Luttrell, Heather Cosgrove, Kimberly Waterhouse, Sandy Hume, Cat Keiter, Josh Cohen, Norma Albano, Allison Steilberg, and Rochelle Locket.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

In 2024, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty achieved more than $1.6 billion in closed sales. The company ranks as one of the Top 25 companies in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is a wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and the nation’s largest homeownership services company.

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com, flnetworkrealty.com or call (904) 296-6400.

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Jacksonville Symphony Extends Music Director Courtney Lewis’ Contract Through 2032

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (December 10, 2025) — The Jacksonville Symphony is proud to announce that Music Director Courtney Lewis’ contract has been extended through June 2032, marking yet another milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to artistic excellence and community impact. While his current contract runs through 2027, the Board voted last month to approve a five year extension. Lewis, who has served as Music Director since 2015—a position endowed by Preston Haskell in 2009—continues to shape the Symphony’s identity with vision, innovation and extraordinary musicianship.

“Under Courtney Lewis’ leadership, the Symphony reaches new levels of excellence year after year,” said President & CEO Steven B. Libman. “His high musical standards and deep rapport with our musicians have elevated the ensemble to new artistic heights. Courtney’s passion and his belief that orchestral music is essential to a thriving community embody the values that guide our mission. I look forward to continuing our partnership as we fuel the Symphony’s growth with his leadership secured through 2032.”

Currently in his eleventh season as Music Director, Lewis has brought an ambitious and imaginative approach to programming, commissioning and artistic development. His tenure has been defined by an expansion of the Symphony’s repertoire—from Mahler and Bruckner symphonies to modern masterpieces—and a renewed commitment to presenting the music of today’s leading composers. Under his baton, the Symphony has also attracted exceptional young talent, infusing the organization with fresh energy and reinvigorated spirit. This influx of emerging musicians has enriched the orchestra’s sound, strengthened camaraderie and deepened commitment.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to lead this wonderful orchestra for the last decade,” said Lewis. “I believe they're now one of the finest in the country and I'm delighted to be continuing to work with them for the foreseeable future.”

Media coverage beyond Jacksonville testifies to the national attention Lewis continues to attract. In a 2025 review of one of his most recent guest appearances with the Grant Park Orchestra, one critic wrote that Lewis “elicited solid contributions from every department of the orchestra,” praising his style as “lucid of beat, firm of rhythm, articulate of gestures,” by Chicago Classical Review. Another recent critic, Nona Rapotan, reflected that his interpretation of his performance with the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra in Romania was “an expression of a rare combination of playfulness and depth,” suggesting that his musical leadership transcends to an emotional level.

Board Chair Matthew Marcin added, “Courtney’s vision and leadership have propelled the Jacksonville Symphony forward in remarkable ways. His contract extension reflects the Board’s confidence in his ability to

inspire, challenge and elevate the orchestra. We are excited for what the next several seasons will bring as he continues the Symphony’s artistic trajectory.”

A conductor recognized internationally for his clarity of musical expression and creative programming, Lewis has appeared with major orchestras including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Minnesota Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Grant Park Orchestra, George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra and Hallé Orchestra. Prior to his work in Jacksonville, he served as Assistant Conductor of the New York Philharmonic and has held leadership roles with the Minnesota Orchestra and Boston’s acclaimed Discovery Ensemble.

Since his inaugural season in 2015/16, Lewis’ performances with the Jacksonville Symphony have been marked by energy, stylistic expression and emotional depth. This contract renewal ensures the Symphony will continue advancing its mission to enrich Northeast Florida through symphonic music of the highest caliber—while further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading cultural institutions.

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Media Contact: Savannah Silliman Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

JAX CHAMBER ANNOUNCES 2026 SMALL BUSINESS LEADERS OF THE YEAR

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

JAX CHAMBER PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT:?Matt Galnor: (904) 472-4196, ?matt@bachmangalnor.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (December 10, 2025) – The JAX Chamber announced its 2026 Small Business Leaders of the Year. They are:

Dr. Tim Conway, The Morris Center, Jacksonville - Arlington Council
Jason Pratt, Prattify - Downtown Council
Kati Lambert, Well Minded Hypnosis – Health Council
Justin Kane, DoubleChecked Cybersecurity – IT Council
Dawn Stewart, Pestle and Potions – Professional Women’s Council
Heather Waisanen, Coastal Maverick - South Council
Tom Snogles, Twinkle Nights – Three Rivers Council
Boshawn Mack, Global Reliable Logistics, Inc. – Transportation & Logistics
April Watson, April Adventures Travel – Beaches Division
Darrin Eakins, DuBlase Whiskey – NextUp JAX
Chris Kennelly, Kennetic Productions Inc. – Venture Services

The 11 Northeast Florida business leaders were selected for the honor by the Chamber Councils, the Beaches Division, NextUp JAX, and Venture Services.

Headshots of the 2026 Small Business Leaders of the Year may be viewed here.

Photography by Renee Paranteau.

One of the 11 business leaders will be named the overall 2026 Small Business Leader of the Year during a breakfast reception presented by TD Bank at University of North Florida on January 29, 2026.

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About JAX Chamber

The JAX Chamber is the business membership organization dedicated to driving quality economic growth in Northeast Florida to make this region the best place to live, work and play. Membership provides the opportunity to connect with and buy from other Chamber members. The connections result in business growth and a more prosperous economy.

SPRINGFIELD PRESERVATION AND REVITALIZATION ANNOUNCES REHABILITATION OF HISTORIC DREW RESIDENCE

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Contact: Michael Haskins FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: 904-353-7727

Email: executivedirector@sparcouncil.org

SPRINGFIELD PRESERVATION AND REVITALIZATION ANNOUNCES

REHABILITATION OF HISTORIC DREW RESIDENCE

JACKSONVILLE, FL, December 8, 2025 - Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is excited to announce its acquisition of the historic Drew Residence at 245 W 3rd Street.

The Drew Residence, located in Historic Springfield, features a mix of architectural styles and characteristics including Tudor Revival, Queen Anne, Spanish Colonial Revival, and a belvedere, and serves as a gateway into the neighborhood from Downtown. The residence was built in 1909 for Dr. Drew Horace, grandson of early Jacksonville leader Columbus Drew.

The acquisition marks an important step in preventing further deterioration of the structure. Despite the home’s landmark status, the Drew Residence has fallen into disrepair in recent years. SPAR intends to rehabilitate the building, with plans for a publicly accessible community living room and archive as well as a small business incubator with low-cost office space for businesses receiving support from Springfield’s business association.

According to Tyler Grant, SPAR Board President, “The Drew is quintessentially Springfield: historic, quirky and the front porch of Jacksonville. The way we have acquired the property and our plan to renovate it represent a novel approach to avoiding demolition by neglect and ensuring historic preservation that we hope will be replicable for our architectural treasures both in the Springfield community and throughout Jacksonville. We’re grateful to our community partners, City leaders, and benefactors who took this risk with us. We look forward to creating a community asset that we can enjoy and be inspired by for years to come.”

Because rehabilitation will cost approximately $1.5 million, SPAR is launching the Drew Rehabilitation Fund to support capital and related operating expenses. SPAR is working to secure grant funding at the national, state and City level and seeking donors to support grant match requirements. Contact Michael Haskins, SPAR Executive Director, at executivedirector@sparcouncil.org or visit sparcouncil.org/drew_fund to give to these efforts.

Credit to Jacksonville’s Architectural Heritage by Wayne Wood for historic context and thank you to our partners at the City of Jacksonville, Atlantic Engineering Services, Avant

Construction Group, and JAA Architecture for their support in preparation for this acquisition. Special thanks to the Mayor’s Office of the City of Jacksonville, Council Member Miller, and Council Member Peluso for their support of and investment in the project. Once rehabilitated, the Drew Residence will serve as a long-term community space and small business incubator in Jacksonville’s Urban Core.

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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District. Gifts to the Drew Rehabilitation Fund support capital and related operating expenses for the rehabilitation of the Drew Residence.

Changing Homelessness, City Rescue Mission Partner to Honor Lives Lost to Homelessness at Annual Memorial Service

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL – On Friday, December 19th, at 8:30 am, the Northeast Florida community will gather to commemorate National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day by remembering our neighbors who lost their lives before they could exit homelessness. This event is open to the public at no cost to attend, and will take place at City Rescue Mission, located at 426 McDuff Avenue South.

A meaningful tradition, this service precedes the first day of winter and the longest night of the year --- reminding us of the humanity we share, the need to work together, and the importance of strengthening our resolve, because no person should die for lack of housing.

Whether attending to honor a loved one or to show support for our community, Changing Homelessness and City Rescue Mission are grateful to the many stakeholders expected to attend including family members, friends, concerned citizens, community and business leaders, faith leaders and elected officials.

Confirmed program speakers include:

§ Dawn Gilman, Chief Executive Officer, Changing Homelessness

§ Paul Stasi, Executive Director, City Rescue Mission

§ Richard Preston, President, New Life Jax Recovery Services

“The annual memorial is a moment to reflect, grieve, and to recommit ourselves to the work of creating a community where no one is left behind,” says Dawn Gilman of Changing Homelessness, “Every name we read represents a life of inherent value, and we are steadfast in our mission to provide hope, stability, and dignity to our neighbors experiencing homelessness."

Those planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP at this link to help prepare appropriately for all guests.

Changing Homelessness leads the effort to end homelessness in Duval, Clay, and Nassau counties. In partnership with more than 40 member agencies and community organizations, we represent the Continuum of Care (CoC), working to provide comprehensive services and long-term solutions for individuals and families in need.

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Sales underway at PulteGroup’s The Landings at Saint Johns

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Katie Robinson-Hensley (904) 648-6196 or Katie.Hensley@Pulte.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sales underway at PulteGroup’s The Landings at Saint Johns

Greenbriar Landing features 50', 60' and 65' homesites with preserve or water views

ST. JOHNS, Fla. (Dec. 10, 2025) – The Northeast Florida Division of PulteGroup, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, proudly announces sales are underway at Greenbriar Landing at The Landings at Saint Johns. Located in St. Johns County, Greenbriar Landing is a new construction community offering stunning single-family homes and extraordinary amenities from the $400s.

“We are experiencing tremendous interest at Greenbriar Landing at The Landings at Saint Johns and on track to open phase two of the community in early 2026,” said Justin Cook, President of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division. “The Landings at Saint Johns offers an appealing location, world-class amenities and the opportunity for buyers and families of all ages to create new memories.”

Greenbriar Landing offers 50’, 60’ and 65’ homesites with preserve or water views and 16 one- and two-story, single-family consumer-inspired floor plans, ranging in size from 1,775 square feet to more than 4,300 square feet. Pulte’s wide range of home designs include two to six bedrooms and two to six bathrooms with thoughtfully designed spaces, sophisticated upgrades and spacious modern living. Five decorated model homes are open to visitors and quick move-in homes are available.

Greenbriar Landing residents will enjoy an array of resort-style amenities including a nearly 8-acre amenity center with a private clubhouse, resort-style pool, a bark park, walking trails, sports courts, event lawn, RV and boat storage, and more. Construction of The Landings’ community amenities will begin soon.

The Landings at Saint Johns is zoned for A-rated schools in the St. Johns County Public School District. The community is conveniently located to shopping, including a new Publix less than two miles away, dining, entertainment, outdoor recreation and more.

The Landings also features the area’s newest 55+ community, Del Webb Saint Johns. Del Webb is the nation’s leading builder of active-adult communities for those 55 and older and known for its livable home designs and world-class amenities and lifestyle.

Greenbriar Landing at the Landings at Saint Johns is located at 120 Contrail Court in Saint Johns. Model homes are open daily. To learn more, call or text (904) 604-7254. To join the interest list for community updates about pricing, homesites, home designs, amenities and more, visit The Landings by Pulte Homes.

Artwork:

Greenbriar Landing at the Landings at Saint Johns site map

About PulteGroup

About Pulte Homes

Pulte Homes is a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM). Pulte Homes builds consumer inspired homes and communities that provide the move-up buyer the best quality of life. Only Pulte Homes offers the combination of innovative Life Tested Home Designs® with an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit pulte.com.

Holiday Happenings at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Offer Artful Fun for the Whole Family

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

First Coast families are invited to explore a range of offerings this December

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – This holiday season, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens invites families to make new memories together through festive programs designed to spark connection, creativity, and fun. Holiday Happenings at the Cummer Museum offer joyful experiences for visitors of all ages.

“At the Cummer, the holidays are about slowing down, celebrating togetherness, and discovering the magic of creativity,” said Kim Kuta Dring, Director of Learning and Engagement. “Whether you’re gathering for story time, creating seasonal artworks, or strolling in our beautiful outdoor spaces, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.”

Self-Care Sunday: Tai Chi & Sound Bath
The Cummer Museum invites guests to step away from the holiday rush and restore their sense of calm with a gentle movement and sound experience. After class, participants are encouraged to linger in the galleries and on the grounds, turning a busy-season Sunday into a nourishing pause for relaxation and well-being. This class includes admission to the Museum.

Sunday, December 14, 10 a.m. – noon (two classes)

Members $20, Future Members $35

Creative Kids Drop-In: After-School Holiday Art Adventure

On December 16, Creative Kids Drop-In turns an ordinary weekday into an artful after-school escape, giving children a chance to explore the galleries and gardens before heading to the studio to create their own seasonal masterpieces, inspired by works in the Museum’s collection.

Tuesday, December 16, 4 to 5 p.m.

Members $10 per child, Future Members $15 per child

Family Literacy Night at the Cummer Museum

On Tuesday evening, December 16, families can enjoy a free evening of reading and fun in collaboration with the Jacksonville Public Library, Mayor Donna Deegan, READ USA, and the River City Readers Bookmobile. Families can pick out free books, enjoy giveaways, sign up for library cards, and learn literacy tips.

Tuesday, December 16, 5 to 7 p.m.

FREE EVENT

Luminaria at the Cummer Museum

As candlelit streets glow throughout the neighborhood, the Museum’s front lawn will fill with live music, warm drinks and seasonal bites from the Cummer Café, a festive art-making activity for all ages, and last-minute gifts in the Cummer Shop.

Sunday, December 21, 5 to 7 p.m.

FREE EVENT

Vacation Week Workshop: Snowy Scenes Painting for Kids

During winter break, this workshop offers a creative outlet for young artists, aged 7-12, eager to explore winter-themed artmaking. Guided by teaching artists, children will explore painting techniques, learn how artists capture atmosphere and mood, and create their own snowy scenes to take home as a keepsake of their holiday visit.

Tuesday, December 23, 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Members $35 per child, Future Members $50 per child

Planning a Holiday Visit

In addition to these special programs, guests can enjoy the Museum’s galleries, interactive family spaces, and historic gardens overlooking the St. Johns River, making the Cummer Museum an ideal destination for out-of-town visitors and local families alike during the holiday season. The Museum offers extended hours on Tuesdays, and free admission on the third Tuesday of each month.

For more information and registration, visit cummermuseum.org

Visitors are encouraged to register in advance for programs, as space may be limited.

About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, founded in 1958 by Ninah Cummer, is one of Northeast Florida’s most enduring and significant cultural institutions. For more than six decades, it has provided community access to five millennia of art celebrating the creativity of the human spirit, alongside 2.5 acres of historically significant riverfront gardens. Visitors to the museum enjoy access to world-class exhibitions, learning opportunities, and outdoor experiences designed to inspire discovery and well-being. Consistently recognized as Jacksonville’s premier art museum, the Cummer Museum is a trusted, vibrant cornerstone of Jacksonville’s cultural and civic life.

Contact: ruckus

904.874.2700

media@createaruckus.com

Brian Wynne Named Chair of American Heart Association’s 2026 First Coast Heart Ball

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Heart Ball chairmanship centers on advocacy, access, and care for military families

Jacksonville, Fla. – (Dec. 5, 2025) – Brian Wynne, president and chief executive officer of Acosta Group, a leading sales and marketing agency collective, will serve as the 2026 First Coast Heart Ball chair for the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all.
“Over the past five years, Acosta Group has significantly transformed and grown, and we’re proud to focus on engaging more intentionally with the Jacksonville community, home to our global headquarters,” said Wynne. “Joining forces with the American Heart Association, an organization that has championed heart health for over a century, is a responsibility I embrace with intention. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before me and stand alongside those committed to advancing this lifesaving mission.”
SUPPORTING MILITARY FAMILIES
As part of the Heart Ball campaign, Wynne will lead efforts to engage companies, community leaders, and individuals to make an impact across the four chambers of the Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access, and knowledge. Wynne is committed to bolstering Northeast Florida and strengthening the communities where we live, work, and play. As event chair, Wynne has centered the campaign on fueling initiatives related to improving nutrition security and supporting local military families. “It’s an honor to champion these efforts. Our military families represent resilience and sacrifice, and they deserve our unwavering support,” Wynne said. “Acosta’s military division has proudly served those who serve since 1946, ensuring access to the best products and resources for service members and their families across bases worldwide. Through this campaign, we aim to strengthen resources for those who serve and their loved ones here in our hometown, ensuring they have access to the nutrition and health tools they need to thrive.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
The campaign will culminate at the First Coast Heart Ball on March 7, 2026, a moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate the progress made by those who have supported the Association. The event will feature dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions, and inspiring stories from local survivors and volunteers.
“We are humbled to have Brian’s leadership at the forefront of this campaign,” said Caitlin Brunell, executive director for the American Heart Association, First Coast. “His compassion, energy, and dedication toward our mission and community are palpable. We look forward to honoring and celebrating his impactful chairmanship at this year’s event.”
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For more information on how to support or sponsor the 2026 First Coast Heart Ball, visit the First Coast Heart Ball website or contact Olivia.Bruce@heart.org.
ABOUT ACOSTA GROUP Acosta Group is a collective of the most trusted retail, marketing, and foodservice agencies empowering brands and retailers to win in the modern marketplace. By delivering transformative, commerce-focused solutions and more than 98 years of expertise, Acosta Group connects the company's partners with people at every point in the consumer journey.
Comprised of Acosta, ActionLink, CORE Foodservice, CROSSMARK, Mosaic, Premium Retail Services, and Product Connections, Acosta Group understands and anticipates evolving consumer needs, fueling accelerated performance to connect tomorrow's commerce today. For more information, please visit acosta.group.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Media contacts: Katrin Perkins Acosta Group KTPerkins@acosta.com (904) 251-8053

Connor Oswald, Ph.D. Joins the Jacksonville Civic Council as Director of Research

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Contact: David Garfunkel, Chief of Public Affairs David@JaxCivicCouncil.com; 617.935.2791

Connor Oswald, Ph.D. Joins the Jacksonville Civic Council as Director of Research

(Jacksonville, Fla. 12/2/25) A fifth-generation Floridian, Connor Oswald, Ph.D. will lead research for the Jacksonville Civic Council, a member-based nonprofit organization that drives change by researching the city’s most pressing challenges, advocating for forward-thinking public policy, and powering strategic execution.

“Our vision to elevate Jacksonville to a world-class city relies on our understanding of where we are today and what strategic levers we need to engage to move our city forward,” said Dennis Whittle, CEO & President for Jacksonville Civic Council. “Connor’s expertise, along with his love of Jacksonville, will be vital in informing our work.”

A proud product of Duval County Public Schools, Dr. Oswald earned his Ph.D. in Education Policy and Evaluation from Florida State University. He also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Florida and a B.S. in Physics and Astrophysics from Florida State University. He is currently pursuing an Executive Master of Public Policy at Jacksonville University.

Dr. Oswald was formerly Senior Manager of Data and Research at the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, leading studies on literacy, teacher retention, and program evaluation across multi-million-dollar portfolios. His earlier experience includes roles with the Orange County Public Schools and the Texas Education Agency.

He is also the founder of TRIDENT—Transformative Research in Impact, Data, Evaluation, and Nonprofit Transparency— a subscription-based research and evaluation institute to support nonprofit evaluation capacity across Northeast Florida and beyond.

According to Dr. Oswald, “I am honored to join the Jacksonville Civic Council team and work alongside such respected civic leaders and innovators. Applying my training, skills and experience to this transformative work for the city of love is really a dream come true.”

About the Jacksonville Civic Council

The Jacksonville Civic Council is a group of business and civic leaders with diverse backgrounds who have a common vision: To make Jacksonville a world-class destination of choice for families, individuals, graduates and businesses. Learn more at jaxciviccouncil.com and follow on LinkedIn.

LaVilla in Lights: A Holiday Celebration at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. (Dec. 3, 2025) – Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park will shine bright this holiday season with LaVilla in Lights, a free community celebration honoring the history, culture and spirit of the LaVilla neighborhood. This festive year-end event brings together live music, local vendors, the Activator Awards and an outdoor holiday movie screening to celebrate holiday cheer.

“We invite all of Jacksonville to join us at LaVilla in Lights to celebrate the feeling of community from holidays past – including the more than 6,000 Jaxsons who have joined us already at the park this year, and new friends as well,” said Carla Jones, facilitator for the Vibrant Places Collective, which curates the free community events at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park. “With music, dancing, holiday shopping, food and an outdoor movie on the lawn, LaVilla in Lights has something for everyone!”

Guests can explore local artisan offerings, celebrate community leaders and enjoy a festive movie under the stars on the Lifted Lawn. Families, neighbors and visitors alike are invited to bring blankets, chairs and holiday cheer for an unforgettable night.

WHAT: LaVilla in Lights is a free, family-friendly holiday celebration featuring live music, local vendors, a community awards presentation and an outdoor showing of the holiday film, “This Christmas.”

Event schedule:

4-5 p.m.: Live Soultry Jazz with Akia Uwanda
5-6:30 p.m.: Vendor Market & Activator Awards Celebration
6:30-9 p.m.: “This Christmas” Movie Screening

WHERE: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park
120 Lee St., Jacksonville, FL, 32204

PARKING: Parking is free on weekends. The public parking map is available courtesy of Downtown Vision here.

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About Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park

Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park is a City of Jacksonville public park that incorporates elements of the Johnson brothers’ and LaVilla’s cultural and built history while making space for a more inclusive future. The park was designed by world-renowned MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant” recipient Walter Hood and officially reopened to the community in summer 2024. Visit levsparkjax.org and follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook to learn more.

Feeding Northeast Florida and Baptist Health Unite to Combat Food Insecurity

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Regional food bank received funds to address increased food insecurity, a critical need exacerbated by the government shutdown

Jacksonville, Fla. –– December 3, 2025 –– In a significant move to combat rising food insecurity across Northeast Florida, Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) announced today that it has received a strategic investment of $250,000 from Baptist Health.

This crucial funding will enable FNEFL to distribute more than 215,000 meals to individuals and families across its 12-county service area, made possible through the bulk purchase of essential grocery staples, including fresh produce, dry goods, and proteins. The funds will cover both the cost of purchasing the necessary food and the logistical support required to deliver it to those in need.

The investment addresses the surge in demand for food assistance, which has continued even after the recent lifting of the government shutdown and the temporary hold on SNAP benefits. This support is vital for people who have struggled to meet basic needs while making difficult choices between paying bills, filling prescriptions and securing food. Feeding Northeast Florida reports the recovery post-shutdown will take time, as people had to seek other financial assistance while waiting on government benefits.

“Food insecurity is a complex issue,” said Susan King, President & CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida. “Many of the individuals we served during and since the shutdown have never sought food assistance before. With so many households living paycheck to paycheck, one bump in the road –– like a delayed paycheck due to a shutdown, or the pause of a government program like SNAP –– can make difficult circumstances exponentially worse very quickly. We are grateful for philanthropic supporters, like Baptist Health, who have stepped in to help so we can ensure our neighbors have what they need to feed their families.”

During the shutdown, families who had never needed help before found themselves turning to food assistance for the first time. Among them was Keira M., a Jacksonville mother who waited in line with her young son at a recent FNEFL distribution. Keira said her family quickly burned through their savings after both she and her husband, who are federally employed, stopped receiving pay. “This is our first time at a food drive,” she said. “We have flown through our savings, and we’re stretching everything we can to get us as far as we can.” Her experience reflects the growing number of households pushed into crisis by the shutdown and underscores the urgent need for support as families work to regain stability.

This investment reflects Baptist Health’s mission-driven dedication to enhancing community health and well-being and the importance of being able to respond quickly during a crisis. Supported through operational resources allocated for strategic investments, the funds represent an ongoing effort to address community needs through meaningful relationships and programs that create lasting, positive impact. By leveraging these dedicated resources, Baptist Health collaborates with local organizations, civic leaders and community agencies to strengthen access to care, promote wellness and advance health equity across the region. This approach reflects Baptist Health’s mission to serve with integrity, compassion and excellence while building a healthier future for all.

Katie Ensign, vice president of Community Impact for Baptist Health, said food insecurity remains a top priority as outlined in the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, which is conducted every three years and is a commitment by Baptist Health and other local nonprofit hospitals to improve health outcomes. The Community Health Needs Assessment shows about 31% of residents in Northeast Florida have low food access, compared to 25% statewide and 22% nationally. These numbers have worsened since the government shutdown and Ensign said the health system knew it needed to act quickly to help the community.

"Consistent with Baptist Health’s mission, we focus on improving the health and well-being of our most vulnerable community members by reaching them where they live, work, pray, and learn,” Ensign said. “We know that lack of access to food leads to poor health outcomes. By collaborating with Feeding Northeast Florida, we can make a significant impact in the lives of people in our community who are struggling to put food on the table, especially during the holiday season.”

Food insecurity is a persistent issue in Northeast Florida, which the food bank works tirelessly to address throughout the year. The need is substantial, with over 310,000 individuals, including 95,000 children, experiencing some level of food insecurity. This means that within the 8,300-square-mile area FNEFL serves, roughly one in seven adults and one in five children are affected. Even though these statistics are alarming and believed to be conservative, the food bank remains committed to its crucial mission: ensuring no one in Northeast Florida goes hungry.

FNEFL encourages everyone that is able to get involved. Feeding Northeast Florida is actively accepting volunteers, food donations and monetary contributions, and is advocating for more food resources. To get involved, visit feedingnefl.org.

Individuals in need of food assistance can find food resources near you through FNEFL’s “find food now” tool at feedingnefl.org/find-food-now.

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About Feeding Northeast Florida

About Baptist Health
Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Baptist Health is a community-based health system focused on making health care easier to access while working to improve health and well-being. As the area’s only locally governed, faith-based, not-for-profit health system, Baptist Health delivers a full spectrum of preventive and specialty care through its 200+ ambulatory locations, six acute care hospitals, home health and virtual care offerings. Through its comprehensive approach to whole-person health for children and adults, Baptist Health provides the area’s largest network of primary care, urgent care and behavioral health care, as well as many specialty services and several wellness centers. Destination centers of excellence include Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center, Baptist Heart Hospital, Baptist Neurological Institute, and Wolfson Children’s Hospital, the only full-service children’s hospital serving the region. To help people get the care they need when and where they need it, the health system leverages digital technology to enhance the delivery of its high-quality, seamless, patient-centered care. Baptist Health is vital to the community, caring for more patients in Northeast Florida than any other provider. The health system has been consistently ranked as “most preferred” for more than 30 years and has been named one of “America’s Greatest Workplaces in Health Care” by Newsweek magazine. To learn more, visit BaptistJax.com.

Predator Pro Billiard Series Brings Global Championships Home to Jacksonville

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — Dec. 2025 The world’s best billiard athletes will soon converge on
Jacksonville as the Predator Group brings its premier international tour, the Predator Pro
Billiard Series (PBS), home for a week of world-class competition and global attention.
December 16–21, 2025, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront will host three major
international tournaments under one roof, the 2025 Kamui WPA Women’s 9-Ball World
Championship, the Jax Men’s Open, and the Jax Mixed Doubles Open. Together, these
events will spotlight Jacksonville on the world stage as a destination for elite cue sports
competition and sports tourism. Produced by Jacksonville-based Predator Group, the
Predator Pro Billiard Series is a global tour that stages professional championships and open
events across five continents.
“We are working every day to expand the reach of cue sports worldwide, and bringing the
Predator Pro Billiard Series home to Jacksonville is an important milestone in that journey.
These events unite global talent, global audiences, and global ambition, all anchored here in
a city that shares our passion for growth.” Karim Belhaj, CEO, Predator Group
The 2025 Kamui WPA Women’s 9-Ball World Championship will feature the top 64 female
athletes on the WPA World Rankings. Current World No. 1 Kristina Tkatch, AIN and 2024
reigning World Champion Rubilen Amit of the Philippines are among those expected to
compete alongside champions from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
“Our commitment to women’s billiards has never been stronger. Bringing the 2025 Kamui
WPA Women’s 9Ball World Championship to Jacksonville reflects our determination to create
more opportunities, more visibility, and more world-class stages for the incredible women
competing at the highest level of our sport.”
The weeklong series is FREE for spectators, offering an unprecedented opportunity to
witness world-class billiards in Jacksonville. Additional event information and schedules are
available at www.probilliardseries.com, with global broadcast coverage streaming on
ProBilliardTV on YouTube.
About Predator Group
Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, Predator Group is a leading innovator in the billiards industry,
inspiring players and fans since 1994 with products and experiences defined by precision, innovation,
and style. Since the groundbreaking 314 shaft and the Revo carbon fiber technology, Predator
products have expanded into a comprehensive ecosystem of equipment. From cues and shafts to
accessories and professional-grade tables and room equipment, Predator has reshaped the way
cuesports are played and staged.
Predator Group’s portfolio includes the premium brands Predator, Predator CRM, Poison by
Predator, and Uni-Loc. These brands deliver cutting-edge cues, shafts, pool tables, accessories,
and advanced joint systems trusted by champions worldwide.
Beyond product excellence, Predator Group is promoting the sport through the Predator Pro Billiard
Series, an international circuit of professional events including the Men’s World 10-Ball & 8-
Ball, Women’s World 10-Ball & 9-Ball, World Teams Championship, Junior World
Championships, and a series of major PBS Open tournaments across the globe. These events are
designed to elevate pool’s visibility and professionalism, providing a stage for the sport’s top athletes.
Predator Group is also the largest investor in the sport’s growth, supporting hundreds of
partnered events worldwide and backing the strongest team of sponsored players, coaches and
influencers - a team that consistently dominates international rankings and podiums.
With passion and relentless innovation, Predator Group continues to inspire and empower the next
generation of billiard athletes and enthusiasts around the world.
Learn more at: www.probilliardseries.com
www.predatorcues.com

James Weldon Johnson Park Celebrates 160 Years in 2026

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL – December 2, 2025 - James Weldon Johnson Park, a historic cornerstone of Jacksonville’s cultural life, will mark its 160th anniversary in 2026 with an ambitious year-long celebration: 160 events honoring 160 years of Community, Art, and Unity.

When Isaiah D. Hart - Jacksonville’s founder - first came to the Cow Ford, he pitched a tent at the foot of Liberty Street in what is now downtown. The vision Hart had of what would become downtown Jacksonville included a small plot in the city center, later called City Park, now James Weldon Johnson Park. As our city’s first urban planner, Hart saw the need for a public space where commerce and community would come together. In 1866, heirs of Isaiah Hart sold the park to the City of Jacksonville for $10. Since then, the park has served as a gathering place for generations, hosting music, art, and civic engagement at the heart of Downtown Jacksonville.

Some of the most notable events to take place in the park include President John F. Kennedy’s campaign speech on October 18th, 1960, during his presidential run and a visit and speech by Lyndon B. Johnson, also in 1960. On August 27th of that same year, the largest civil rights demonstration in Jacksonville history known as Ax Handle Saturday was held in the park, which drew thousands of participants and became a pivotal moment in the fight for racial equality. In 2004, James Weldon Johnson Park honored Congressman Charles E. Bennett, former U.S. Congressman and longest-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida, with a 1,500-pound bronze statue commemorating his 44 years of service and enduring impact on Jacksonville and the nation. The statue faces north toward Washington, D.C., symbolizing his lifelong dedication to public service.

In 2013, a group of citizens wanted to revitalize the park, seeing it as a catalyst for the revitalization of Downtown. They began hosting “brown bag lunch” gatherings, which turned into a plan for a private management model and a “Friends of” group was created. One of the most successful examples of the City’s public-private partnerships, the organization has continued to curate events celebrating the history and culture of the park for the past 12 years.

This milestone year will feature a diverse lineup of concerts, festivals, art-centered events, and family-friendly activities designed to reflect the park’s legacy and its vibrant future. Our annual festival lineup will include:

Art in the Park Chalk Drawing Competition on March 28th
The Cookout on April 18th
2nd Annual JWJ BDAY 5K & Block Party on June 20th
10th Annual Brew & BBQ Festival on November 14th

Plus, our partnered events that you know and love like ArtWalk, Galaxy Fest, and Poetry in the Park. We’ll also host seasonal Food Truck Family Days with games and activities, brand new events: “Happy Mondays” & “Scavenger Hunt Saturdays” and returning weekly events: Jazz in the Park ft. Joe Watts, and Live @ Lunch on Fridays.

“James Weldon Johnson Park has always been more than a green space - it’s a gathering place that reflects the heart of our community. As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded of the partnerships and people who make it possible to create a welcoming, vibrant downtown for everyone. This anniversary isn’t just about looking back; it’s about building an even brighter future together,”

Liz McCoy, Executive Director, Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park

How You Can Help:

Volunteer: Be part of the magic behind the scenes. Opportunities range from event support to community outreach. tinyurl.com/VolunteerAtJWJPark
Donate: Your contributions help sustain the park’s programming and preserve its historic role as a cultural hub. tinyurl.com/DonateToJWJPark

About James Weldon Johnson Park

Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park is a nonprofit organization founded in 2014 and contracted with the City of Jacksonville to revitalize the city’s first and most historic public park. James Weldon Johnson Park is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, adjacent to City Hall, the main branch of the Jacksonville Public Library, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Our mission is to transform James Weldon Johnson Park into a modern, urban space that engages diverse communities and restores vitality to our city’s public square. We accomplish this by adding and maintaining landscaping and amenities and providing daily programming. Our park ambassadors and security welcome and share information with our guests while ensuring that James Weldon Johnson Park is clean and safe. Our programming is informed and supported by a variety of community partnerships.

Discover more at: www.JamesWeldonJohnsonPark.org and on our James Weldon Johnson Park social feeds.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Relocation Division honored by Aires Broker Network

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride at (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Real estate firm recognized for providing unparalleled customer service

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 2, 2025) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty proudly announces its recognition as a prestigious Gold Award Winner from the Aires Broker Network.

Broker and Vice President of Relocation Services Linda Lindenmoyer, CRP, GMS-T, SGDS, CIPS, accepted the award on behalf of the company and its relocation division team at the Aires Broker Network Summit in Pittsburgh, Pa. The Gold Award is presented to brokerages achieving an outstanding 100% customer satisfaction rating as indicated by Aires’s corporate transferees receiving relocation and real estate services by the company and its relocation team.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Aires Broker Network, and this award is a testament to our relocation team’s excellence and dedication to deliver the highest levels of customer service,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “This recognition reflects our commitment to exceptional service, strong leadership and the Realtor support that sets our company apart.”

Whether it is individuals, families or corporate relocation, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty’s relocation division can provide customized programs and resources to make the relocation experience smooth and stress free. They include area orientation and school information, the buying and selling of residential real estate, temporary housing assistance, household goods shipment referrals, trailing partner employment assistance, and more.

For relocation assistance, contact Linda Lindenmoyer at (800) 456-8036 or email Linda.Lindenmoyer@FloridaNetworkRealty.com. For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com or FLNetworkRealty.com.

Photography

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty receives the prestigious Gold Award from the Aires Broker Network. From left,

Bonnie Cameron, Corporate Procurement Specialist, Aires Broker Network

Linda Lindenmoyer, Broker and Vice President of Relocation Services, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Joleen Lauffer, President, Aires Broker Network

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com, flnetworkrealty.com or call (904) 296-6400.

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10th ANNUAL HOLIDAY MOVIE & FOOD DRIVE AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE BENEFITTING FEEDING NORTHEAST FLORIDA DECEMBER 29, 2025

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

10th ANNUAL HOLIDAY MOVIE & FOOD DRIVE AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

BENEFITTING FEEDING NORTHEAST FLORIDA

DECEMBER 29, 2025

JACKSONVILLE, FL (November 25, 2025) –– For the 10th year in a row, the Florida Theatre is proud to host their annual holiday movie and food drive benefiting Feeding Northeast Florida and the Northeast Florida community. The movie this year will be “The Grinch” (2018) and will start at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, inside the historic theatre.

Admission is FREE for every adult and child with a gift of a canned or nonperishable food item. Please bring one item per adult and one item per child – but more is welcome.

“We started this years ago (2015) as a way to give back to the community as a non-profit ourselves. It is a great family event and an opportunity to teach kids about philanthropy,” said Numa Saisselin, President of the Florida Theatre.

Some suggestions for the food drive include canned vegetables like corn or green beans; canned fruit like peaches, pears, or mixed fruit; peanut butter in plastic jars; canned meats like tuna or chicken; pop-top cans of ravioli and spaghetti; canned soup; or boxed items like macaroni and cheese, pasta, and instant potatoes.

All food donations will benefit Feeding Northeast Florida, the region’s largest and most efficient food bank, and part of the Feeding America network.

“Support from the community is critical to our ability to serve neighbors in need. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Florida Theatre again for this wonderful holiday tradition,” said Susan King, President and CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida.

Doors open at 12:30 p.m. for arts & crafts and milk/cookies in the lobby. Showtime is 2:00 p.m., and the movie is 85 minutes long.

Many thanks to CSX as our presenting sponsor.

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About Feeding Northeast Florida

Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) is the region’s largest nonprofit (501c3) food bank and hunger relief network. FNEFL provides nutritious foods and other essential goods to those in need and strives to improve the quality of life for people living in Northeast Florida by addressing food insecurity, poverty, and poor health. Alongside our network of food distribution, agency, and community partners, the Food Bank provides food resources and hope to help the more than 1 in 7 people living in our eight-county service area (Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns) who struggle to feed themselves and their families. Feeding Northeast Florida works daily to find solutions to address the issues of food insecurity and poverty through awareness, advocacy, education, and action in ways that promote dignity, respect, and empowerment. For more information, visit www.feedingnefl.org.

About the Florida Theatre

Sporting JAX appoints veteran sales leader Tim Hensley as Vice President of Ticket Sales and Service

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Seasoned MLS and USL executive to lead ticketing strategy, revenue growth and fan experience across club’s professional teams

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Nov. 24, 2025) – Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) today announced the appointment of Tim Hensley as the club’s new Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service. One of the United Soccer League’s most respected ticketing executives, Hensley will oversee all sales, service and revenue functions for the club’s men’s USL Championship team, women’s Gainbridge Super League team and Sporting JAX Youth Academy.

Reporting directly to the President and CEO, Hensely will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive ticketing and service strategy designed to accelerate attendance, drive revenue and deliver an exceptional fan experience across all Sporting JAX properties.

Hensley joins Sporting JAX following nearly a decade of leadership in professional soccer ticketing, most recently serving as Senior Director of Ticketing for the USL’s Club Performance Group. In that role, he collaborated with clubs across the league to shape ticketing strategies, optimize revenue models and strengthen customer engagement programs. He also served as a key advisor to executive leadership throughout the USL ecosystem, championing data-driven decision-making and operational best practices across ticket sales, retention and fan experience.

“Tim brings unmatched experience in ticketing strategy, sales leadership and fan engagement,” said Steve Livingstone, president and CEO of Sporting JAX. “His work across MLS and USL has made him one of the most respected executives in our industry, and his commitment to excellence will be invaluable as we continue building a top-tier professional soccer club in Northeast Florida. Tim’s expertise, leadership, and character make him a tremendous addition to our team, and we are excited to welcome him to the Sporting JAX family.”

“I am incredibly honored to join Sporting JAX to help build something truly special for this community,” said Hensely. “The club’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity and its fans reflects everything I value in this industry. I look forward to working with Steve, the ownership group and the entire front office team to build a ticketing and service department that delivers exceptional experiences, strong results and showcases the passion of Northeast Florida’s soccer fans.”

Hensley previously held various leadership roles with Nashville, S.C., where he played a pivotal part in the club’s transition from USL to MLS. As Manager of Season Ticket Sales, he recruited and guided a sales team that generated over $11.5 million in new business, established key sales processes and enhanced the experience for full-season members.

(more)

Earlier in his career, Hensley played a key role in expanding New York City FC by developing new B2B and B2C business pipelines and managing multiple ticketing products throughout the New York metropolitan area. He began his professional career at the MLS National Sales Center, where he completed its rigorous ticket sales training program. Hensley holds a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

For more information, including upcoming matches and ticket information, visit www.sportingjax.com. For the latest Sporting JAX news, matchday updates and behind-the-scenes access, follow @Sporting_JAX across all social media platforms. About Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) Sporting Club Jacksonville, or “Sporting JAX,” was established in 2020 by a passionate group of Jacksonville-based owners and is driven by a bold vision to elevate the area’s soccer scene and “Lift Every Voice,” the club’s motto. Named in collaboration with the First Coast community in 2023, the club launched its women’s professional Gainbridge Super League club in 2024 and will debut its men’s professional USL Championship club in 2026. Sporting JAX will also spearhead the development of a 15,000-capacity community stadium and training facilities, positioning the First Coast as the new premier destination for soccer excellence. For more information, visit www.sportingjax.com.

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Media Contact: Tiffany Hutto (904) 571-5659 tiffanyhutto@sjp.com

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Invites the Community to Shop with Purpose this Holiday Season

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Two festive events offer art-inspired gifts at the Cummer Shop

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is celebrating the season of giving with two special shopping experiences designed to delight visitors and support the Museum’s ongoing mission. Shoppers can find meaningful, art-inspired gifts during Museum Store Sunday on November 30 and the elegant Champagne & Shopping event on December 4 and 5. Both events will be at the Cummer Shop, located inside the Cummer Museum in Riverside.

According to Susan Tudor, Director of Retail & Visitor Experience at the Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens, “Each item in the Cummer Shop tells a story; of the artists who create, of the museum that inspires, and of the community that supports both. Shopping here during the holidays turns every purchase into an act of connection and support for Jacksonville’s vibrant cultural scene.”

Museum Store Sunday: Sunday, November 30

Part of a global celebration of museum stores, Museum Store Sunday invites guests to “Shop with Purpose” while discovering unique, artful gifts that give back. Now in its ninth year, this worldwide event features more than 2,200 museums across the globe promoting conscientious shopping and cultural engagement. At the Cummer Shop, visitors will enjoy special offers, savings on every purchase, and a curated selection of items crafted by local artisans, including clothing, jewelry, books, and distinctive holiday décor.

Purchases made on Museum Store Sunday directly support the Museum’s educational programs, artist initiatives, and community outreach, making it a meaningful way to give during the holidays.

More information can be found at: https://www.cummermuseum.org/event/museum-store-sunday-3/

Champagne & Shopping: Thursday, December 4 and Friday, December 5

For those seeking a leisurely and luxurious shopping experience, the Museum Store will host Champagne & Shopping on Thursday, December 4, and Friday, December 5. Guests can sip champagne while browsing the Museum’s curated holiday collections, enjoy personalized shopping assistance, and take advantage of storewide discounts.

This annual, two-day event transforms holiday shopping into a celebration of community and creativity, perfect for selecting memorable gifts and supporting the arts in Jacksonville.

More information: https://www.cummermuseum.org/event/champagne-shopping-5/2025-12-05/

About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, founded in 1958 by Ninah Cummer, is one of Northeast Florida's most enduring and significant cultural institutions. For more than six decades, it has provided community access to five millennia of art celebrating the creativity of the human spirit, alongside 2.5 acres of historically significant riverfront gardens. Visitors to the museum enjoy access to world-class exhibitions, learning opportunities and outdoor experiences designed to inspire discovery and well-being. Consistently recognized as Jacksonville's premier art museum, the Cummer Museum is a trusted, vibrant cornerstone of Jacksonville’s cultural and civic life.

Contact: ruckus advertising & public relations

904.874.2700

media@createaruckus.com

The Fiorentino Group Announces Rebranding as The Florida Group

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

ew name embodies the firm’s growing government affairs and business development services at the local, state and federal levels

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Nov. 21, 2025 — The Fiorentino Group, a comprehensive government relations and business development firm, today announced its rebranding to The Florida Group (TFG).

Established in Jacksonville in 2002, The Florida Group’s expertise spans the political and policymaking processes at all levels of government. With a broad array of clients including Fortune 500 companies as well as public and nonprofit entities, the firm specializes in transportation, economic development, local governmental matters, education, health care and appropriations. The new brand embodies the company’s expanded practice throughout Northeast Florida, across the state and in Washington, D.C.

The updated name signals growth for the company and coincides with expanded roles among its executive team. Founder Marty Fiorentino will remain President, while three established employees will take on additional leadership responsibilities. Joe Mobley continues as Managing Partner, TFG Partner Davis Bean will now be Chair of State and Federal Practices, and Partner Melissa Langley Braude has been named Chair of the firm’s Local Practice.

“As the industries we serve undergo transformation, so do we. This evolution reflects our commitment to growth — not only locally, but regionally and beyond,” said Fiorentino. “During their collective 35 years at the company, Joe, Davis and Melissa have seamlessly combined their strengths and networks to exceed client expectations and grow TFG. With our experience, strategic partnerships and a track record of impactful results, we remain committed to shaping the future of politics and business.”

As TFG continues to elevate its presence in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., it has also strengthened its presence in Jacksonville by investing in a new home office in the Riverside neighborhood. The firm recently relocated its headquarters to 2120 Oak Street, a historic structure built in 1916 that has undergone a full renovation.

“I’m extremely proud of the team we’ve assembled under Marty’s leadership. These changes position us to offer current and future clients a broader reach in Florida and Washington, D.C. I’m excited for the future of the firm – TFG 2.0 is here, and the enthusiasm among our team has never been higher,” said Managing Partner Joe Mobley.

For more information, visit TheFloridaGroup.com.

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About The Florida Group (TFG):?
Established in 2002, The Florida Group (TFG) — formerly known as The Fiorentino Group — is a comprehensive government relations and business development firm. Our expertise spans state, local and federal governance, allowing us to shape policy in Florida and beyond. Amid a changing and ever-evolving political landscape, our leadership remains steadfast, dedicated to guiding our team through this exciting new time of expansion and growth. By collaborating with business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and government authorities, we adeptly navigate the intricate landscape of politics to advance our clients’ interests. With our wealth of experience, strategic partnerships, and a track record of impactful results, we remain committed to shaping the future of politics and business. Learn more at TheFloridaGroup.com.

Downtown Vision, Inc. Releases the 2024-2025 State of Downtown Report

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

DVI’s annual analysis returns, showcasing Downtown Jacksonville’s growth

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — November 19, 2025 — Downtown Vision, Inc. (DVI), the nonprofit Business Improvement District for Downtown Jacksonville, today announced the release of its 2024-2025 State of Downtown Report, an 18-month recap of progress and development in Downtown Jacksonville from January 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

Every 18 months, DVI tracks and analyzes Downtown’s performance in key indicators of urban vitality, such as development and investment, residential demand, office market and employment base, transportation and infrastructure enhancements and tourism health to tell the story of Downtown Jacksonville, benchmark trends and support investment efforts. This year’s report is available online in an interactive format, and can be viewed at DTJax.com/reports.

Highlights from the 2024-2025 State of Downtown Report include:

Downtown Jacksonville’s residential population is currently hovering around 9,000. With more than 3,000 units in the development pipeline, several large-scale projects under construction and multiple residential developments nearing completion, Downtown is on track to continue steady population growth in the near future.
In partnership with the City of Jacksonville, the University of Florida will establish a new graduate campus in the historic LaVilla neighborhood. The project will include the Florida Semiconductor Institute, positioning Jacksonville as an emerging hub for innovation and technology.
Construction is underway on multiple portions of Gateway Jax’s Pearl Square, where it was recently announced that Publix will serve as the grocery retailer. The mixed-use development will feature approximately 1,250 residential units, 200,000 square feet of retail space, 110 hotel rooms, and additional amenities.
Work has also begun on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ $1.5 billion “Stadium of the Future,” slated to open ahead of the 2028 NFL season.
In the spring, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) celebrated the opening of its $12.7 million Autonomous Innovation Center in LaVilla. The facility serves as the hub for JTA’s new Neighborhood Autonomous Vehicle Innovation (NAVI) program, which provides service along a 3.5-mile loop throughout Downtown.
In Brooklyn, the One Riverside development, anchored by Whole Foods, has begun leasing apartments following the completion of its first phase of residential construction.
Construction continues on the Riverfront Plaza project, with Phase One expected to open in early 2026. This phase will include a pavilion building, enhanced riverwalk, playground, event lawn and other public amenities.
The City of Jacksonville also completed its two-way street conversions on Adams and Forsyth streets midway through 2025, further improving connectivity and accessibility within the Downtown core.

“Over the past 18 months, Downtown Jacksonville has seen tremendous progress continuing a solid foundation for future exponential growth,” said Jake Gordon, CEO of Downtown Vision, Inc. “With continued private investment and strong support from the City of Jacksonville and the Downtown Investment Authority, we’re building on more than a decade of positive momentum. The data in this year’s State of Downtown Report highlights steady growth across nearly every metric we track – proof that Downtown Jacksonville’s future has never looked brighter.”

In addition to the report, users can find additional Downtown data at DTJax.com/research. This research includes quarterly visitor and persona dashboards powered by Placer.ai and Spatial.ai, which provide geofenced data on COVID-19 recovery, visitor and employee traffic, visitor, employee and resident personas, and brand category affinities. It also includes interactive resident, employee and visitor survey summaries that offer insights on respondents’ experiences, perceptions and behaviors. Users can export data to provide more robust insights for their own projects and presentations.

The full report is available for review and download at DTJax.com/reports.

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About Downtown Vision:

Uniti Fiber - Bronze Member Ribbon Cutting Event Flyer

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Fleet Landing Breaks Ground on $280 million Nocatee Site

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Nocatee, FL - Fleet Landing hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, celebrating
the start of construction on its second campus, Fleet Landing at Nocatee — a premier, not-for-profit Life Plan
Community that will redefine retirement living in Northeast Florida. More than 200 guests attended, including
future residents, Fleet Landing leadership, project partners, and past and present Board Members.
“Fleet Landing at Nocatee represents more than expansion — it’s part of a broader mission to serve a new
generation of older adults who seek purpose, connection, and possibility,” said Josh Ashby, Chief Executive Officer
of Fleet Landing. “We’re not just building a community; we’re building a future in which older people continue to
lead, contribute, and inspire.”
Future resident Jennifer Regan, who attended the ceremony, shared her excitement: “I am so pleased that an
organization with such a great reputation will now be a special part of Nocatee. I’m looking forward to being part of
a community that cares for each other — and has fun too!”
The $280 million development sits on 37 acres in the award-winning, master-planned community of Nocatee.
Located in Nocatee’s Town Center, Fleet Landing residents will enjoy access to Nocatee’s extensive amenities in
addition to the community’s own exceptional offerings, including multiple dining venues — highlighted by a rooftop
bar and restaurant — two group exercise studios, creative arts and game rooms, a fitness center, heated pool,
pickleball courts, dog park, and a state-of-the-art performing arts center. Together, these features create a relaxed,
luxury environment that fosters connection, wellness, and community engagement.
The new campus will extend Fleet Landing’s long-standing tradition of purposeful living, innovation, and quality. The
development will serve more than 450 residents and create over 100 new jobs locally. Fleet Landing at Nocatee will
feature 234 independent living residences, 26 assisted living apartments, and 19 memory support suites, offering a
choice of home styles including a nine-story Tower, three-story Flats, and Cottage residences, with floor plans
ranging from 849 to 2,964 square feet.
Learn more at Fleetlanding.com/Nocatee.
RENDERINGS AND B-ROLL: Renderings of the space as both still images and video tours are available for broadcast
use. They can be accessed via the following Drop Box Link:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ln1aohjb1brxi4uh15x6p/AAHvujLTFDD95OVaZy0S3G8?rlkey=0obs7khecc28yrrc22
hokhtzw&st=9i90i6lg&dl=

Teachers nominated for VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. — More than 175 outstanding Duval County teachers are being celebrated for their dedication and impact in the classroom this school year. One of them will be named the 2026 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year at the EDDY Awards, presented by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), on Jan. 24, 2026.

The Teacher of the Year program seeks to recognize, elevate and empower Duval County's best public school teachers by offering unique programming to elevate the teaching profession throughout the year. Teachers selected by their schools as Teacher of the Year are given the opportunity to participate in the teacher leadership initiative offered by JPEF.

After schools submit their nominees for Teacher of the Year, a diverse selection committee convened by JPEF narrows the field down to 15 semifinalists. The semifinalists are further narrowed down to five finalists through a selection process that includes observing the teachers in the classroom. The final Teacher of the Year will be announced at the EDDY Awards Gala on Jan. 24 at the Hyatt Regency. The winner will go on to compete for the Florida Teacher of the Year award.

“Every day, these outstanding educators go above and beyond to ignite a love of learning and help students reach their full potential,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, president of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. “The Teachers of the Year represent the very best of Duval County. They are dedicated, creative, and deeply committed to our children’s success. We look forward to celebrating their incredible impact and stories of excellence at the 2026 EDDY Awards.”

VyStar believes in doing good and leading by example, especially when it comes to supporting local education foundations and their efforts to celebrate and elevate teachers in their communities. VyStar is the title sponsor for the EDDY Awards.

“At VyStar, we believe that great teachers are the heart of thriving communities,” said Patricia McElroy, senior vice president and Foundation President, VyStar Credit Union. “We are honored to support the EDDY Awards and celebrate the incredible educators who inspire, uplift, and transform lives every day. Their dedication to excellence in the classroom shapes the future of our region, and we are proud to stand beside them in this important work.”

“Every one of these teachers is a part of the reason Duval County is an ‘A’-rated school district,” said Dr. Christopher Bernier, superintendent of Duval County Public Schools. “Our success is rooted in their hard work and because of them, our students are excelling, growing, and achieving like never before. Each of them is a Teacher of the Year to us at Duval County Public Schools, and together they’re shaping an exciting future for education in Duval County—one filled with innovation, inspiration, and endless possibilities for our students.”

The Teachers of the Year are:

Karen Wade, A. Philip Randolph College & Career Academies

Lynn Simmons, Abess Park Elementary School

Erin Harwick, Alden Road Exceptional Student Center

Dasia Stevenson, Alfred I. duPont Middle School

Allyson McAlister, Alimacani Elementary School

Brittany Barbatelli, Anchor Academy Elementary School

Kenya Smarr-White, Andrew Jackson High School of Advanced Technology

Shirley Anderson, Andrew Robinson Elementary School

Misty Herbert, Arlington Elementary School

Rachel Shuert, Arlington Heights Elementary School

Monica Gold, Arlington Middle School

Kaylee Carlin, Atlantic Beach Elementary School

Robert Jackson, Atlantic Coast High School

Richard Kennedy, Baldwin Middle-Senior High School

Priscilla Anderson, Bartram Springs Elementary School

Heather Edmonds, Bayview Elementary School

Nicole Kolbeck, Beauclerc Elementary School

Ayriel Kelly, Becoming Collegiate Academy

Chereen Murray Forsythe, Biltmore Elementary School

Ronda Bridgeman, Biscayne Elementary Leadership Academy

Maurus Alexander-DeJournett, Biscayne MYcro School

Natalie Hutchinson, Bridge to Success Academy High School

Megan Cantrell., The Bridge to Success Elementary and Middle School

Shawnie Hodgson, Brookview Elementary School

Tricia Carter, Cedar Hills Elementary School

Amanda Jones, Central Riverside Elementary School

Allison Blount, Chaffee Trail Elementary School

Stephanie Leca, Chaffee Trail Middle School

Roberta Matthews, Chets Creek Elementary School

Tonya Ahnemiller, Chimney Lakes Elementary School

Marianthi Angjellari, Crown Point Elementary School

Fosteria Haigler, Crystal Springs Elementary School

Tori Tremble, Darnell Cookman School of the Medical Arts

Zetosha Williams, Dinsmore Elementary School

Diana Dingle, Don Brewer Elementary School

Michelle Flores, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts

Amber Adams, Duncan U. Fletcher High School

Norma Kameko Ramirez, Duncan U. Fletcher Middle School

Elizabeth Pawlak, Duval Charter School at Southside

Kenneth Johnson, Duval MYcroSchool

Tara Rovolis, Duval Virtual Instructional Academy

Nicole Matthews, Edward H. White High School

Denise McFarland, Englewood Elementary School

Devon Norris, Englewood High School

Shikara Arnold, Enterprise Learning Academy

Denita Blunt, First Coast High School

Jennifer Kitt, Fishweir Elementary School of the Arts

Robin Peterson, Fort Caroline Elementary School

Dr. Carissa McCray, Fort Caroline Middle School of the Visual and Performing Arts

Matthew Rodgers, Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology

Elisa McFadden, Garden City Elementary School

Jaelyn Morris, George Washington Carver Elementary School

Taryn Hannah, Global Arts Academy

Heather Saintgeorges, Global Leadership Academy Discovery

Marilyn Sanabria, Global Leadership Academy High School

Dolores Davis, Grand Park Education Center

Melva Batts, GRASP Academy

Leyla Salinas, Greenfield Elementary School

Jaimie O’Brien, Greenland Pines Elementary School

Atierani McIntyre, Gregory Drive Elementary School

Caron Prisby, Hendricks Avenue Elementary School

Susan Jeffers, Hidden Oaks Elementary School

Sherry Bolden, Highlands Estates Academy

Valerie Arline-Brown, Highlands Middle School

Pamela Owens, Hogan-Spring Glen Elementary School

Lauren Skipper, Holiday Hill Elementary School

Leteia Pennington, Hospital Homebound

Donna Conroy, Hyde Grove Elementary School

Vicki Everson, Hyde Park Elementary School

Briana Bell, IDEA Bassett Academy

Jasmine Lemons, IDEA Bassett College Prep

Krystle Lopez, IDEA Public Schools Regional

Sylvia Waters, IDEA River Bluff Academy

Karmen Pierce, IDEA River Bluff College Prep

Amanda Confiado, J. Allen Axson Montessori School

Jennifer O'Brien, Jacksonville Beach Elementary School

Tracy Fusilier, Jacksonville Heights Elementary School

George Teuber, James Weldon Johnson College Prep Middle School

Dr. Mari Richardson, Jean Ribault High School

Monet Baker, Jean Ribault Middle School

Jason Williams, John E. Ford PK-8 English/Spanish Montessori

Hattie Anthony, John Love Early Learning Center

Leah McCorvey, John Stockton Elementary School

Terrence Rodgers, Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership

Marshall Rivers, Julia Landon College Preparatory and Leadership Development School

Carrie Prince, Kernan Middle School

Laura Ulloa, Kernan Trail Elementary School

Monique Lockett, KIPP Bessie Coleman Academy

Lekeshi Wormley, KIPP: Bold City High School

Victoria Akers, KIPP Impact Academy

Amari Baker, KIPP VOICE Academy

Lisette Boyd, Lake Lucina Elementary School

Delia Smith, Landmark Middle School

Ariela Valdez, LaVilla School of the Arts

Silimona Hamrick, Lone Star Elementary School

Warren Sapp, Lone Star MycroSchool

Alanna Conyers, Long Branch Elementary School

Jennifer Anderson, Loretto Elementary School

Tracie Chaffee, Louis Sheffield Elementary School

Serena Maerkl, Love Grove Elementary School

Heather Sharp, Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary School

Kim Rolfe, Mandarin High School

Dionicio Pacpaco, Mandarin Middle School

Deborah Scarbrough, Mandarin Oaks Elementary School

Leon Crawford, Matthew W. Gilbert Middle School

Wanda Williams, Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative Middle School

Ariana Khalili, Mayport Coastal Sciences Elementary School

Loravie Howell, Mayport Coastal Sciences Middle School

Kelly Ogram, Merrill Road Elementary School

Wilmer Suficiencia, Mount Herman Exceptional Student Center

Pamela Levine, Neptune Beach Elementary School

Justina David, New Berlin Elementary School

Jessica Mauch, Normandy Village Elementary School

Donnasha Waters, North Shore Elementary School

Francine Rodriques, Northwestern Legends Elementary School

Asha Armstrong, Oak Hill Academy

Patricia Campbell, Oceanway Elementary School

Candyce Horton, Oceanway Middle School

Timothy Young, Ortega Elementary School

Elaine Vinluan, Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center

Marissa Norwood, Parkwood Heights Elementary School

Melissa Trujillo, Paxon School for Advanced Studies

Sharon Andreu, Pickett Elementary School

Johanna Figueroa, Pine Forest School of the Arts

Carlene Hibbert, Pinedale Elementary School

Kimberly Godwin, Pre-Trial Detention Center

Jazmin Richo, Ramona Blvd Elementary School

PeTika Tave, Reynolds Lane Elementary School

Cyteria Boykins-Carter, Richard L. Brown Gifted and Academically Talented Academy

Brianna Aversa, River City Science Academy Elementary School

Kennedy Thomas, River City Science Academy Innovation

Nicole Miller, River City Science Academy Intracoastal

Jennifer Damico, River City Science Academy Mandarin

Megan O'Toole, River City Science Academy Southeast

Danielle Ross, Riverside High School

Willysa Jones, Rufus E. Payne Elementary School

Stacy Terrazzano, Ruth N . Upson Elementary School

Valerie Pitts-Wilson, Rutledge H. Pearson Elementary School

Andrie Phillips, S.A. Hull Elementary School

Pallavi Chakraborty, Sabal Palm Elementary School

Grace Tumamak, Sadie T. Tillis Elementary School

Paula Seymore, Sallye B. Mathis Elementary School

Laura Parnes, Samuel Wolfson School for Advanced Studies

Chester Wilson, San Jose Early College at Cecil High School

Fanivel Rosario, San Jose Elementary School

Emirjona Hajdari, San Jose Prep

Travis Bradford, San Jose Primary

Denise Shely, San Mateo Elementary School

Amy Waters, San Pablo Elementary

Rachael Holland, Sandalwood High School

Christina Chacon, Seabreeze Elementary School

Shalonda Small, Smart Pope Livingston Elementary School

Henrietta Telfair, Somerset Academy Elementary School - Eagle Campus

Lakita Ivory, Somerset Academy Middle School- Eagle Campus

Martin Scott, Southside Estates Elementary School

Jeanette Settle, Southside Middle School

Jenny Morales Ontiveros, Spring Park Elementary School

Kayla Jackson, Springfield Middle School

Caleb Smith, Stanton College Preparatory School

Jeria Camp, Terry Parker High School

LaStocia Drayton-Jones, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School

Linda Thomas, Tiger Academy

Angela Copeland, Timucuan Elementary School

Kendall Zona, Twin Lakes Academy Elementary School

Latoya Campbell, Twin Lakes Academy Middle School

Rodilyn Bacho-Logsdon, Venetia Elementary School

Cassandra Sassor, Waterleaf Elementary School

Iyana Gilbert, Wayman Academy of The Arts

Robin DePriest, West Riverside Elementary School

Christopher McNealy, Westside High School

Kennerly Cotton, Westside Middle School

Christie Kaye Ondiano, Westview PK-8

Elena Smalls-Holland, Whitehouse Elementary School

Douglas White, William Marion Raines High School

Hasna Fathallah, Woodland Acres Elementary School

Darryn Floyd, Young Men's and Women's Leadership Academy

Contact Amy Henderson Communications & Marketing Director, at (404) 387-0624 or amy@jaxpef.org for more information.

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About the Jacksonville Public Education Fund

The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is an independent think-and-do tank that believes every student should graduate high school inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life. JPEF serves as a bridge in support of public education, activating community support, connecting partners, and advancing effective ideas for the success of all students. For more information:?www.jaxpef.org.?

Pearl Square Construction Update: November 2025

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Gateway Jax Celebrates Construction Start of Pearl Square Parking Garage, Advancing Downtown Jacksonville’s Transformation

Jacksonville, Fla. –– November 6, 2025 — Gateway Jax, a Jacksonville-based commercial real estate development firm, has broken ground on the first parking structure within Pearl Square, marking another major milestone to transform Downtown Jacksonville’s North Core into a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood. The new garage, located adjacent to the historic Ambassador Hotel, will provide convenient access not only for hotel guests, but also for visitors, residents and businesses throughout the district, including Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD).

Construction for the Ambassador Hotel’s restoration is slated to begin in early 2026. In the meantime, work continues across Pearl Square, following this summer’s announcement of Publix as the neighborhood’s full-service grocery anchor and the groundbreaking of 425 Beaver Street (formerly N4).

“The local enthusiasm for Pearl Square is mirrored in the conversations we’re having with prospective partners and tenants across the country,” said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax. “Together with our design and construction teams, we are eager to continue the progress across the project’s active construction sites. We look forward to keeping the Northeast Florida community informed as we bring the first parcels to life in the coming year.”

Recent project milestones have included:

Groundbreaking of the Ambassador Hotel garage.
The topping out of 515 Pearl Street (formerly known as N11), marking the completion of the building’s highest point. All windows and roofing are now installed, making the building weather tight. The project is on schedule for completion in the third quarter of 2026.
Completion of foundation work at 425 Beaver Street (formerly N4), with concrete work now progressing above-grade.
Site clearing, demolition, utility, and grading work has commenced at 440 Beaver Street (formerly known as N8), with foundation work expected to begin in early 2026.

Additional project updates will be shared in the weeks to come.

Upon completion, Pearl Square will encompass more than 1,250 new residential units; approximately 200,000 square feet of retail tenants including restaurants, fitness and other daily amenities; the revitalization of the historic Ambassador Hotel, a 100+ key boutique hotel; vibrant new public spaces; lush public parks; and a signature curbless festival street with abundant outdoor dining possibilities. The long-term plan represents more than $2 billion in investment over the next decade, reimagining Downtown Jacksonville as a place to live, work, shop and explore.

For more information on Gateway Jax and the Pearl Square project, including leasing opportunities, visit pearlsquare.com.

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About Gateway Jax

Gateway Jax is committed to working in collaboration with residents and communities to build future-forward ways of working, living and playing. Learn more at gatewayjax.com.

Jacksonville Symphony presents America’s 250th anniversary celebration, The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert and more during November 2025

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:56:05 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (October 23, 2025) — The Jacksonville Symphony presents six performances in November, including a program of American celebration, the return of the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras, the highly anticipated Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live to Film and more. All performances take place in Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts.

November 2025 Schedule

Appalachian Spring | Nov. 7 and 8, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. Conductor Case Scaglione leads a program of celebration and inspiration. Copland’s famous Appalachian Spring Suite evokes the simplicity and grandeur of American pioneer life, while Lincoln Portrait sets Abraham Lincoln’s stirring words to music, honoring liberty and unity—perfect for America’s 250th anniversary. Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5, born from oppression, emerges as a powerful statement of endurance and triumph. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/appalachian-spring

Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras Fall Concert | Nov. 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras (JSYO) serve more than 230 young musicians from across Northeast Florida through six levels of ensembles that vary by repertoire and technical advancement. The JSYO Fall Concert features performances by these talented student musicians, showcasing their growth and artistry. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/jsyo-fall-concert

Holiday Brass, Organ & Percussion | Nov. 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. Two cherished Jacksonville traditions—Holidays at the Symphony and Brass, Organ & Percussion—come together for a spectacular seasonal celebration. Experience the thrill as organist Greg Zelek returns to unleash the full power of the Bryan Concert Organ, paired with the brilliance of brass and percussion. From timeless carols to festive favorites, this joyful performance fills the season with

music, magic and cheer. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/holiday-brass

America in Concert: 250 Years of Music & Majesty | Nov. 16, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an unforgettable evening of music and patriotism. This Jacksonville Symphony production brings together the full Symphony and Symphony Chorus, along with a star guest vocalist, stirring color guard, drum line and other surprises to honor the spirit and resilience of our nation. From “Battle Hymn of the Republic” to “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” this concert celebrates 250 years of courage, music and unity. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/america-in-concert

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live to Film | Nov. 21 and 22, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. See Tim Burton’s beloved holiday classic like never before as the Jacksonville Symphony performs Danny Elfman’s score live to the full-length film. Follow Pumpkin King Jack Skellington as he tries to bring Christmas to Halloween Town in this visually stunning, family-friendly event. The film is rated PG. Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. ®All rights reserved. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/nightmare-before-christmas About the Jacksonville Symphony The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 115,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org. Media Contact: Savannah Silliman Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

Applications now open for Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:55:37 GMT

Jacksonville Public Education Fund

40 East Adams Street, Suite 110

Jacksonville, FL 32202

(904) 356-7757

Photo Caption: Alexandra Hall, a teacher at River City Science Academy Innovation, participated in an Ecology Project International program in Costa Rica along with her fellow teacher Stephanie White, as part of their Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship. The focus of their fellowship was to integrate real-world environmental issues into their math and science curriculum.

Applications Now Open for the Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship

Empowering Duval County Teachers to Dream Big and Learn Without Limits

Jacksonville, Florida – October 30, 2025 – The Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF) is proud to announce that applications are now open for the Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship, a transformative program designed to empower K–12 Duval County public school teachers to design and pursue professional learning experiences of their own creation.

Applications opened October 1 and will remain open through January 16, 2026. Interested educators can learn more and apply online at EdelmanFellowship.org or go directly to the application page at EdelmanFellowship.org/how-to-apply.

The Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship provides funding for innovative professional learning opportunities that go beyond traditional development models—whether through international exchanges, advanced workshops, research programs, or other creative educational pursuits. The goal is to inspire teachers to bring new ideas, global perspectives, and renewed passion back into their classrooms.

Program Highlights:

Transformative Learning: Fellows design their own immersive, career-enhancing experiences that inspire creativity and strengthen their impact in the classroom.
Professional Growth: Participants receive mentorship, resources, and opportunities to grow as leaders and innovators in education.
Community Connection: Fellows join a collaborative network of educators committed to teaching excellence and continued professional development.
Student Impact: The Fellowship’s hands-on approach translates into richer learning environments and stronger outcomes for Duval County students.

Since the Fellowship’s inception in 2020, 17 outstanding public school teachers have been selected to participate. Their experiences have included global learning trips, research collaborations, and specialized training designed to elevate their teaching practice.

“Great teachers share an incredible passion to elevate their practice so they can be more effective in the classroom,” said Cindy Edelman, retired art history educator and founder of the Fellowship. “With this fellowship, we open doors for dedicated professionals to design the learning experiences they need to advance their craft and inspire students.”

“When they encouraged us to ‘think big and go big,’ they meant it,” said Logan Davis, 8th grade science teacher at River City Science Academy and past Fellow. “I spent 10 days in the Galapagos Islands working with biologists and other teachers to study environmental impact. It changed how I teach science and how my students see the world.”

The Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship is administered by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund and supported by a permanent fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, established by Dan Edelman in honor of his wife, Cindy—a lifelong champion of public education.

Application Details:
Applications Opened: October 1, 2025
Deadline: January 16, 2026
Learn More & Apply: EdelmanFellowship.org | EdelmanFellowship.org/how-to-apply
Contact: Amy Henderson | (404) 387-0624 | amy@jaxpef.org

Join us in celebrating and investing in the power of teachers—because when educators dream big, students achieve even more.

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About the Jacksonville Public Education Fund
The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is an independent think-and-do tank that believes every student should graduate high school inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life. JPEF serves as a bridge in support of public education, activating community support, connecting partners, and advancing effective ideas for the success of all students. For more information: www.jaxpef.org.

Bespoke House Artisan Community Proposes Creative Revival of Jacksonville’s Old Daily Record Building to Power Local Arts Economy

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:54:54 GMT

Contact: Michael Armanno

Email: BespokeHouse904@gmail.com

Phone: 904-345-0513

Website: BespokeHouseJax.com

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Bespoke House, a nonprofit creative business incubator, has announced its official campaign to secure and transform the historic Old Daily Record Building into a flagship creative economy hub for Jacksonville. Located behind the Florida Theatre in the heart of downtown, the 8,500 square foot landmark would become a working space for artists, a training ground for creative entrepreneurs, and a platform for economic empowerment.

As part of the campaign, Bespoke House is presenting a formal proposal to the building’s owner and rallying community support through operational grants, advertising partnerships, private sponsorships, and membership expansion. This initiative aligns directly with the findings of the ACE Committee Report under Mayor Donna Deegan’s administration, which calls for urgent investment in artist infrastructure and creative workforce development.

Sponsorship Opportunities & Upcoming Gala

To help fund this endeavor, Bespoke House is hosting a high-impact fundraising event:

Break Room: Severance-Themed Dinner Gala

December 22nd, 2025 at The Grand Downtown

Dress Code: Corporate Core Meets Creative Rebellion

The organization is offering 12 table sponsorships at $2,000 each, which will directly fund lease activation, buildout, and programming within the new space.

Sponsors will also receive recognition in Bespoke House’s upcoming inaugural magazine publication, livestreamed events, and branded creative productions.

Inside the Proposed Daily Record Facility

This headquarters will be a transitional launch point for Jacksonville’s next wave of artist-owned business. The space will include:

Master Artisan Suites (live/work units for full-time creatives)
Patron-level coworking memberships at just $20/month
A member-operated gallery and gift shop
Workshops on financial literacy, grant writing, marketing, and business development
Production labs for apparel, printing, livestreaming, and podcasts
Public-facing exhibitions, fundraising events, and partner activations

“This is where we cancel the starving artist myth,” said Michael Armanno, Executive Director of Bespoke House. “We’re building infrastructure for real creative careers, and we’re doing it inside a building that once printed Jacksonville’s stories. Now we’ll make space for hundreds more.”

Long-Term Vision: Westside Expansion at Wesconnett Elementary

The Old Daily Record Building is the starting point, not the finish line.

Bespoke House is also proposing a long-term redevelopment plan for the former Wesconnett Elementary School on Jacksonville’s Westside. This potential future campus will serve as a large-scale creative workforce facility focused on:

Affordable live/work housing for artists
Youth and family programs in under-resourced neighborhoods
Business incubation for media, arts, and apparel ventures
Expanded access to education, mentorship, and economic opportunity

Wesconnett represents a vital opportunity to close equity gaps in space, access, and creative careers for residents on the Westside while continuing to grow Jacksonville’s cultural and economic footprint.

Why It Matters Now

Jacksonville’s creative class accounts for between 9% and according to data reported by Bloomberg, it could be more than 27% of the metro workforce. The city is filled with artists, designers, educators, musicians, and storytellers, but the infrastructure to support them remains limited and fragmented.

The ACE Committee’s 2023 findings identified millions in potential creative economic impact calling it “money left on the table” without proper investment. Bespoke House is answering that call with a practical, scalable, and immediate solution.

Get Involved

To sponsor a table, advertise, become a member, or donate to the campaign:

?? www.gofundme.com/f/bespokenfor

Sponsorship packages, media kits, and grant partner opportunities are available upon request.

Email BespokeHouse904@gmail.com or visit

www.bespokehousejax.com/blogs/news/sponsor-the-break-room

About Bespoke House

Bespoke House is a nonprofit creative cooperative headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. Its mission is to equip artists and creative professionals with the tools, mentorship, and market access they need to build sustainable businesses. Through workshops, media production, live events, and residencies, Bespoke House empowers the creative class to thrive and shows that art is not just expression, it’s economic power. https://share.google/uJKIMn6StVysZr5zt

North Florida Land Trust’s Salty Soiree Celebrated Conservation on Amelia Island

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:54:28 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 30, 2025 – North Florida Land Trust hosted the Salty Soiree on Amelia Island to honor the donation of 388 acres next to Fort Clinch State Park to NFLT by Jack and Kathleen Thornton late last year. NFLT and the Thornton family were joined by nearly 170 supporters to celebrate the preservation of the land and to raise money for the nonprofit.

The Thornton family received a standing ovation for their generous donation of what is now known as the Thornton Family Preserve. The property is adjacent to Fort Clinch and runs about two miles between the state park and Egan’s Creek. The donation helps to protect the state park and ensures this land will remain in its natural state. Before the event, the Thornton family joined NFLT at a newly erected sign inside Fort Clinch State Park that recognizes the family’s contribution to conservation.

The Salty Soiree served as a fundraiser for NFLT. A $15,000 donation match was announced at the event, which was reached within the first hour and a half of the celebration. In total, $70,000 was raised to support NFLT’s conservation work in Northeast Florida at the event, which is expected to become an annual celebration of conservation on Amelia Island.

NFLT would like to extend special thanks to the event committee:

Janyce & Mark Dawkins
Randy & Allison DeFoor
Becky & Tommy Grimes
Pam & Joe Hart
Cynthia Jones-Jackson
Connie & Ken McDaniel
Lyn Pannone & Steve Nadeau
Sally & Tony Perez

About North Florida Land Trust

North Florida Land Trust is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life by protecting North Florida's irreplaceable natural environment. Founded in 1999, NFLT has preserved tens of thousands of acres of land through the donation or purchase of land and conservation easements. NFLT is funded largely by private and corporate contributions and works closely with willing landowners, public agencies at all levels of government, not-for-profit partners, and foundations. For more information, visit nflt.org.

MANIFEST DISTILLERY: DOWNTOWN JACKSONVILLE’S ONLY FULL-SCALE DISTILLERY CONTINUES SIX-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HISTORIC FLORIDA THEATRE

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:53:55 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 30, 2025) – Manifest Distillery, a Corporate Partner of the Florida Theatre since 2020, has announced its renewed support of the historic Theatre in downtown Jacksonville.

Manifest was founded on the principle that a great vision can only be achieved through unity. Individual talents and abilities are integral to their success, but the sum is always greater than the individual parts. This founding principle revealed itself naturally when establishing their team, comprised of David Cohen, Scott Kennelly, Trey Mills, and Tom Johnson. The individual journeys of these four gentlemen led them together to form what is now Manifest.

“I grew up here in Jacksonville, coming downtown, going to the Gator Bowl, and then subsequently just leaving right afterwards, right because there was never anything to do. So, it was important to us to have a business down here when we decided to open Manifest (Distillery),” said David Cohen, Head Distiller, Prez, and Co-Founder. “So as such, we've invested in this location. So, being a fellow downtown business, we want to support the Florida Theatre because of that. And obviously, theater is something that's important to me. Personally, I grew up around the industry, so we love that. And obviously, our staff loves it. We're patrons of the theater. We frequent the wonderful lineup of shows that are there.”

Manifest celebrates the best of what American craftsmanship has to offer, from the American-made distillation equipment to the grains sourced from a network of co-ops throughout North America. Their distillation is influenced by training from the famed brew school, the Siebel Institute, researching and shadowing master distillers throughout Kentucky and elsewhere, along with a resilient desire to never stop learning, growing, and chasing their best selves.

To learn more about how your organization can become a Corporate Sponsor and support the historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre, please email Michele Adams (Development Director) at michelle@floridatheatre.com.

To see the video interview with Numa Saisselin (Florida Theatre) and David Cohen (Manifest Distillery), please click here.

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About Manifest Distillery

We are very proud of our unique product offering. Our core product line-up consists of our non-GMO Potato Vodka and Florida Citrus Vodka, organic Gin, organic barreled Gin, organic Rye Whiskey, and 100% Rye Whiskey. All of our distillation equipment is American-made, and the grains that go into each of our spirits are sourced from a co-op of North American farms. Each bottle is the culmination of years of driven commitment to tradition, with a yearning to continue to explore new innovations and carve out our own niche in the craft alcohol landscape. To learn more, visit https://www.manifestdistilling.com/.

About the Florida Theatre

Press Release: Office Images welcomes Scout Snell as Associate Account Manager

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:53:17 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Madelen Salter (904) 398-9761or msalter@officeimagesinc.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Office Images welcomes Scout Snell as Associate Account Manager

Supporting dealership’s growth and expansion

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 30, 2025) – Office Images, a nationally respected, full-service workplace furniture and architectural solutions dealership, proudly announces Scout Snell has joined the team as Associate Account Manager.

In her role, Snell’s responsibilities include supporting the Account Manager in managing client relationships from project inception through completion for multiple accounts. She assists with project work activities and new business opportunities, working directly in conjunction with the Account Manager to provide exemplary customer service and support business expansion.

“We are excited to welcome Scout as an extension of our passionate and knowledgeable team,” said Office Images Market President Madelen Salter. “Office Images is innovating the next generation of workspaces and social spaces, and Scout’s knowledge and enthusiasm makes her an outstanding resource for our clients.”

Snell comes to Office Images with more than six years of experience in sales, customer service and brand building across retail, hospitality, and e-commerce. She has a strong eye for design, detail, and customer connection, thrives working in collaborative, fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering thoughtful communication and meaningful interactions. Snell attended the University of North Florida.

With locations in Atlanta, Ga., Nashville, Tenn., and Jacksonville, Fla., Office Images is one of the largest Haworth dealerships in the country, providing furniture and architectural solutions and workplace consulting nationwide to clients in commercial, government, education, healthcare, and hospitality industries. Office Images creates vibrant spaces and workplace solutions customized to meet the specific needs of every organization. For more information, visit www.officeimagesinc.com.

Photography:

Scout Snell, Associate Account Manager, Office Images

About Office Images

Office Images is a full-service office furniture and architectural solutions dealership in Jacksonville, Fla. The dealership is a leading industry authority on workplaces of the future, and its team is known for taking a visionary and strategic approach to creating connection and community. Office Images is one of the largest dealers of Haworth office furniture in the country, and offers customized solutions for commercial, government, education, healthcare and hospitality clients. In Jacksonville, Office Images is located at 1524 San Marco Blvd. Office Images also has locations in Atlanta and Nashville. Visit officeimagesinc.com for more information.

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FSCJ ARTIST SERIES 2025/2026 SEASON

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:49:31 GMT

(*All shows at The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts unless otherwise noted)

November 18-23, 2025

CLUE ON TOUR (BROADWAY SERIES)

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, CLUE is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

November 30, 2025

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE dazzles with a brilliantly breathtaking holiday spectacular for the whole family. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Reimagined for 2025, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE features original music, fresh twists on beloved holiday favorites sung live, new sets, dazzling scenery, and stunning costumes – making it the ultimate holiday gift!

December 5, 2025

CAROLMANIA! A Very, Very, Kool Christmas

A Family Musical Immersive Experience featuring “The Holiday Carols Slaying the Sleigh Songs”. The show takes place in an enchanting festive setting, contestants (Carol, Carol, and Caroline) audition for the role of the most lovable Ms. Clause, while Rudolph, our witty host, and Blitzen, the in-house musical director, guide the audience through interactive song medleys and holiday games. Essentially CAROLMANIA! is a Christmas concert where everyone can play a part with songs and games and prizes.

December 6, 2025, 8:00 pm

SARAH BRIGHTMAN ‘A WINTER SYMPHONY’

A magical celebration of the holiday season will return this year as the world’s biggest-selling soprano and legendary GRAMMY® Award-nominated artist Sarah Brightman returns with her new Christmas spectacle ‘A Winter Symphony.’ Accompanied by an orchestra, choir and special guests, this enchanting holiday show will feature Sarah performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. ‘A Winter Symphony’ is such a special way to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

January 13, 2026

THE KINGSTON TRIO

*Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts – FSCJ South Campus

In celebration of 60-plus years of music, the iconic folk group performs their best-loved songs as part of the ‘Keep The Music Playing’ national tour. All three current members, Mike Marvin, Tim Gorelangton and Don Marovich, have intrinsic links to the original group. The Kingston Trio was one of the most prominent groups of the era's pop-folk boom that started in 1958 with the release of their first album and its hit recording of "Tom Dooley", which sold over three million copies as a single.

January 16, 2026

MARSHALL CHARLOFF & THE PURPLE XPERIENCE

Celebrated Minneapolis All-Star Band, Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, is the world's premier tribute to PRINCE. As seen touring globally for over a decade, starring in a Las Vegas residency, headlining Red Rocks Amphitheater, fronting the world’s finest symphonies, and featured on albums with Prince - Marshall has dominated the world stage as the most authentic Prince tribute artist. Performing all of your favorite hits with unmatched musicianship, played LIVE, not tracked!

January 17, 2026

SHANGHAI CIRCUS

*Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts at FSCJ South Campus

Shanghai Circus: Amazing Acrobats is a top performance troupe famous for delivering top performers with excellent skills, dare-devil acts and a harmonious combination of various kinds of performing arts. The show begins by honoring the essence of the old historic Shanghai Culture and transports you to current Shanghai through the dynamic artists’ dazzling performances which include mystifying acts of strength, colorful dance, breathtaking acrobatics mixed with many charismatic personalities.

January 18 2026, 7:00 p.m.

DIANE KRALL

A record-breaking musician, Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. Her albums have garnered two GRAMMY® Awards, ten Juno® Awards and have earned nine Gold, three Platinum, and seven multi-Platinum status albums. Her 1999 release of When I Look in Your Eyes spent an unprecedented 52 weeks in the #1 position on Billboard's Jazz chart, won two GRAMMY® Awards, and went Platinum in the U.S. and Canada, establishing her as a powerhouse of the genre. Her album, This Dream Of You, garnered critical acclaim and displayed the effortless virtuosity that has become Diana Krall’s musical signature. Krall's unique artistry and musicality transcend any single musical style, making her one of the most recognizable artists of our time.

January 21, 2026, 7:00 p.m.

WILD WORLD OF ANIMALS

An exploration into the fascinating world of the wildlife we share with the planet; featuring some of the most majestic, interesting, bizarre, and critically endangered species in the world. The fantastic animal lineup encompassing arthropods, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals are the real rock stars of Wild World of Animals. Grant Kemmerer brings about 16 guests to each show ranging from leopard, monkey, wolf, and badger to the critically endangered red ruffed lemur. Included may also be some of the largest of their species such as the eagle owl, marine toad, and dictator scorpions; as well as a legless lizard, cobra, alligator, and a 100 year old alligator snapping turtle.

January 22-23, 2026

BLUE MAN GROUP – NORTH AMERICAN TOUR

Dive into the thrilling Blue Man Group experience – a blend of captivating music, interactive art and audience engagement. Blue Man Group creates a fun, disruptive and out of the ordinary atmosphere that exhilarates the senses and uplifts spirits for audiences of all ages. Join over 50 million fans who’ve experienced the magic of Blue Man Group across the world!

January 25

REZA EDGE OF ILLUSION

REZA: Edge of Illusion is known for his jaw-dropping, grand-scale tricks—like making motorcycles and even helicopters appear out of thin air. Audiences can expect to witness incredible feats, such as levitations, a record-breaking recreation of Houdini’s legendary stunt, and the unforgettable live appearance of a helicopter on stage and so much more. Blending state-of-the-art production, sharp comedic timing, and countless moments of audience interaction, he creates a show that is immersive and inspiring. His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level elevates his art to something truly extraordinary.

February 1, 2026, 3:00 pm

CARMEN

Carmen tells a passionate story of love, jealousy, and betrayal. The opera follows Don José, a soldier who is seduced by the fiery gypsy factory-girl Carmen. Carmen is Georges Bizet’s most celebrated opera. Teatro Lirico D’Europa presents this full-scale production of Carmen, featuring traditional European-designed sets and costumes, an international cast, and vibrant dancers. The opera will be performed in the original French with English supertitles.

February 5, 2026

RIVERDANCE 30 – THE NEW GENERATION

Riverdance’s fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerizing choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation. To celebrate this incredible 30th year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour, rejuvenating the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. And for the first time Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when show began 30 years ago.

February 6, 2026

BEGINNINGS - A CELEBRATION OF THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO

Beginnings - A Celebration of the Music of Chicago brings the magic of a live Chicago performance to

life and exceptionally recreates their enormous songbook of contemporary hits. The band transports the listener back to a time of big arena concerts with all the sound, excitement, and emotion generated from Chicago's extensive catalog of gold and platinum recordings.

February 10-15, 2026

MRS. DOUBTFIRE THE NEW MUSICAL COMEDY (BROADWAY SERIES)

Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Jacksonville in “a feel-good, family friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, it’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now” (Chicago Tribune) – one that proves we’re better together.

February 22, 2026

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

The Price Is Right Live™ is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to "Come on Down" and play classic games from television's most popular game show.

February 26, 2026

IL DIVO BY CANDLELIGHT WITH SPECIAL GUEST SIMPLY THREE

IL Divo will take audiences on a journey through two decades of romance, heartache, and joy, weaving their greatest musical triumphs into an unforgettable evening. They will be joined by Phoenix-based string trio Simply Three, who will also open the shows. For over 20 years, IL Divo has embodied the power of music, brotherhood, and artistic evolution. Since their debut in 2004, the iconic quartet, formed today with —Urs Bühler (tenor, Switzerland), Sébastien Izambard (tenor, France), David Miller (tenor, USA), and Steven LaBrie (baritone, USA)—have redefined classical crossover, captivating audiences worldwide with their breathtaking vocals and electrifying performances.

March 4, 2026

SWAN LAKE BALLET

Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, Swan Lake, presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and FSCJ Artist Series. A full-scale production featuring Tchaikovsky’s legendary score, exquisite Artistic Direction by Andrei Litvinov and masterful choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. Be spellbound by the iconic variation of Little Swans, Odile’s 32 fouettés, and the graceful movements of talented dancers. With over 200 custom scenery pieces adding grandeur and beauty, this production promises to be a spectacular visual treat. Book your tickets now and be transported into a world of enchantment, where the beauty of dance and the power of love intertwine in a truly captivating performance.

March 5, 2026

STAYIN' ALIVE - ONE NIGHT OF THE BEE GEES

STAYIN’ ALIVE is the quintessential tribute band to the Bee Gees, capturing the excitement of live performance and the tender subtleties of the human voice! STAYIN’ ALIVE offers to their audiences the songs and sights of a full Bee Gees playlist, singing blockbusters such as “Night Fever”, “Jive Talkin’”, “How Deep Is Your Love”, “You Should Be Dancing”, “Nights on Broadway” and “Stayin’ Alive”. In addition, they perform softer poetic ballads such as “I Started a Joke”, “Massachusetts”, “Fanny Be Tender”, “Words” and “To Love Somebody” among other great hits.

March 6, 2026, 8:00 pm

THE DOO WOP PROJECT PRESENTS “ECHOES OF THE STREET”

The dynamic Broadway stars of The Doo Wop Project capture and deliver the classic sounds of the guys who, back in the day, harmonized with each other on stoops, in the subway, and on street corners! Their brand new 90-minute show “Echoes of the Street” keeps the classic sounds of Doo Wop alive for audiences of all ages. You’ll hear Doo Wop classics as well as Doowop-ified versions of contemporary songs.

March 10-15, 2026

MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL (BROADWAY SERIES)

Pop the champagne, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is the winner of 10 Tony Awards® — including Best Musical! Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. A celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and — above all — Love, MOULIN ROUGE! is more than a musical — it is a state of mind.

March 29, 2026, 3:00 pm

A TRIBUTE TO PAVAROTTI

A TRIBUTE TO PAVAROTTI is an elegant concert program with outstanding American soloists and on-stage musicians. The concert features music closely associated with Pavarotti's legacy. Beautiful background projections tell the story of the operas and canzones and Master of Ceremonies, Giorgio Lalov introduces the selections, giving a short synopsis of each piece. Luciano Pavarotti (1935-2007) was an Italian operatic tenor and one of the most popular vocal performers of his time.

April 1, 2026

PUPPY PALS LIVE

*Wilson Center for the Arts at FSCJ's South Campus

As Seen on AMERICA'S GOT TALENT, Puppy Pals Live is a family fun action-packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats. Watch as Puppy Pals Live leads the puppies and audience through challenging and comical tricks as the pooches show everyone who is really boss! Full of canine stunts and laugh-out-loud canine comedy it is no surprise this show has been a hit all over the USA!

April 12, 2026, 2:00 p.m.

STEVE TRASH SCIENCE LIVE

*Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts – FSCJ South Campus

This show focuses on making STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Math-magical, musical, and fun! In this new LIVE educational show, Steve Trash shares his passion for both magic AND science. He explains the difference between science and magic and how it can be both using real science (scientific method), kid comedy, music, and amazing magic tricks. Steve creates a rockin good time that many teachers have called "The Best Show Ever!"

April 14-19, 2026

A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL (BROADWAY SERIES)

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.

April 25, 2026

TAYLORVILLE: AN UNOFFICIAL LIVE TRIBUTE BAND

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Taylor Swift like never before! Taylorville is your ticket to a night filled with chart-topping hits and cherished deep cuts. This dynamic tribute band, armed with unmatched musical talent, takes you on a journey through Taylor's iconic career. The stage comes alive with a stunning video wall production, adding a visual spectacle that complements the music perfectly. It's a tribute that'll make you sing, dance, and relive the magic of Taylor's songs. Don't miss this extraordinary homage to a pop sensation!

May 12-17, 2026

BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL. THE MUSICAL. THE MUSICAL. (BROADWAY SERIES)

Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, BEETLEJUICE tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Entertainment Weekly calls it “A FEAST FOR THE EYES AND THE SOUL!”

VyStar Credit Union Employees Donate 8,000+ Hours During Good is everywhere

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:47:52 GMT

October 29, 2025

Contact: Charlene Shirk, Assistant Vice President of Public Relations

shirkc@vystarcu.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Good is everywhere: VyStar Honors Members through
a Month of Giving and Community

Turning Everyday Moments into Extraordinary Impact

JACKSONVILLE, FL - Thousands of people across Florida and Georgia came together to celebrate community and giving during VyStar’s award-winning Good is everywhere initiative. The month-long initiative honored VyStar’s members and partners while amplifying its purpose to Do Good in the communities it calls home.

As part of the celebration, VyStar thanked members for their loyalty by offering free experiences at local attractions including museums, science centers, sporting and music events. It also highlighted VyStar’s deep commitment to community by empowering employees to volunteer, serve and support local nonprofits across its footprint.

The celebration combined member appreciation with community transformation. VyStar employees from every area of the organization collaborated with nonprofit partners to address real community needs. Notable partnerships included home renovations for residents with intellectual and developmental differences at Pine Castle in Jacksonville, a pop-up food pantry for students at Kennesaw State University in Atlanta, and interactive STEM stations for youth at the Walt Disney World Clubhouse Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida in Orlando.

Mayors from Jacksonville, Orlando, Tallahassee, Gainesville (FL), Orange County, Stockbridge, and Chatham County united to officially proclaim a “Good is everywhere Day,” celebrating VyStar’s positive impact across the Southeast.

“Our employees don’t just volunteer, they uplift the very neighborhoods our members call home,” said Patricia McElroy, SVP/President of VyStar Foundation. “Through our ‘Good is everywhere’ celebration, we empower every team member to take action that strengthens our communities. Because when we come together to serve the communities where our members reside, we create lasting change where it matters most.”

By the Numbers: A Month of Good Across VyStar Communities

· 8,253 Volunteer Hours Completed by VyStar Employees

· 216 Volunteer Events Across Florida and Georgia

· 30 Free experiences offered to VyStar members and the public

· 20,776 Free admissions to museums, venues and attractions with VyStar’s community partners

The impact of Good is everywhere reflects VyStar’s belief that when people come together for good, extraordinary things happen. It’s another way VyStar continues to Do Good. Bank Better.

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About VyStar Credit Union

VyStar Credit Union is the second-largest credit union headquartered in Florida, with 78 full-service?branches across Florida and Georgia, 1 million members and?assets of over $14 billion. VyStar is the top mortgage lender in Northeast Florida and a major employer in the region with over 2,300 employees across the communities it serves. VyStar membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the 49 contiguous counties of Central to North Florida, 29 Georgia counties, and past and present military members and their families all over the world. VyStar members have access to 55,000 surcharge free ATMs worldwide. For more information, visit vystarcu.org, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram,? X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.??

The information transmitted in this email, including all attachments, is intended only for the individual(s), entity or entities to which it is addressed and might contain confidential, proprietary and/or privileged information. All electronic mail messages, which may have been established as expressed views and/or opinions (stated either within the electronic mail message or any of its attachments), are left to the sole responsibility of that of the sender, and are not necessarily attributed to VyStar Credit Union or its subsidiaries. Any review, retransmission, or dissemination in any form, or other use of this information by individual(s) or entities other than the intended recipient(s) is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please contact the sender and delete the information from all computers.

PRESS RELEASE: Community Hospice Honors Veterans with Compassionate End-of-Life Services

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:47:28 GMT

Contact:

Michelle Cardinal, Public Relations

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Cell: 904.477.4103

E-Mail: michelle.cardinal@aliviacare.com

Community Hospice Honors Veterans with Compassionate End-of-Life Services

October 29, 2025 (Jacksonville, Fla.) - As our nation honors the sacrifices of military service members this Veterans Day, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is proud to recognize the nearly 1,800 veterans cared for last year throughout Northeast and North Central Florida. From honoring service through bedside ceremonies to providing specialized end-of-life care, the organization’s veteran services ensure that those who served our country receive the compassion, dignity, and respect they deserve.

Veterans often carry unique physical, emotional, and spiritual experiences shaped by their military service. Community Hospice understands these challenges and has developed programs to meet them with sensitivity and honor. Care teams receive enhanced training to recognize the impact of trauma, moral injury, and service-related illness. Veterans are supported through personalized plans that may include counseling, spiritual support, and specialized therapies designed to address their needs and ease the burdens on their families.

One hallmark of care is the Veteran Pinning Ceremony, where patients are formally thanked for their service. Branch-of-service flags are often displayed outside patient rooms, creating a visible tribute for staff, families, and fellow veterans. These moments of recognition offer comfort to both patients and loved ones, reminding them that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care has been recognized as a Level Four Partner in the We Honor Veterans program, the second-highest level available in the national initiative led by The Alliance for Care at Home in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This distinction reflects expanded staff and volunteer education, strengthened community partnerships, and a deeper commitment to honoring veterans at the end of life.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s mission extends beyond medical care, embracing a promise to honor those who defended our freedoms. Whether through ceremonies, specialized support, or quiet moments of gratitude, the organization ensures that veterans are surrounded by compassion in their final days.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,500 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com

Freedom Boat Club of Northeast Florida Adds New Hurricane Boats to its Jacksonville Beach Fleet

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

Freedom Boat Club of Northeast Florida Adds New Hurricane Boats to its Jacksonville Beach Fleet

The new versatile vessels offer members comfort, performance and upgraded features to enhance the boating experience

Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 8, 2025 – Freedom Boat Club (FBC) of Northeast Florida is making its Jacksonville Beach location even more inviting for members by adding 10 brand new Hurricane boats to its fleet. The new Hurricane SunSport 2050 deck boats offer members a luxurious option with upgraded features that make boating freedom even easier. Combined with Freedom Boat Club’s concierge service, these new boats enhance the boat club membership.

“Our members are going to love these new boats at our Jacksonville Beach location that will make boarding on the dock and on the sandbar even easier,” said Lisa Almeida, co-owner of FBC of Northeast Florida. “These boats offer a much more friendly seating arrangement to allow for optimal entertainment, and they come in some really fun colors. It’s just another perk of being a Freedom Boat Club member.”

The Hurricane SunSport 2050 makes it easier for members to get on and off the boat with a bigger platform on the transom and a step on the cushion. The ladders are also more robust and bigger, making boarding simpler. It has a spacious layout which is much more friendly for riders, and the chairs can move back and forth to allow for sitting up or lounging. The storage on board is also increased.

The new boats at FBC Jacksonville Beach have new colors on the hull. Members can enjoy grey, seafoam green, purple, Bahama blue and blue/grey hulls making them distinctive and eye catching when out on the water enjoying the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, the Fort George Sandbar, and the waterfront landmarks along the way.

FBC of Northeast Florida’s Jacksonville Beach location is at Beach Marine at 2315 Beach Blvd. and is also the location of the franchise headquarters. Those interested in learning more about becoming a Freedom Boat Club Member can contact Membership Director Bill Edinger at (904) 746-0018 or bedinger@freedomboatclub.com.

About Freedom Boat Club

Freedom Boat Club, owned by Brunswick, is the largest membership-based boating club in the world. It is an alternative to boat ownership, delivering hassle-free boating since 1989. Freedom Boat Club of Northeast Florida provides unlimited access at five local locations: Julington Creek Marina and Julington Creek West in Jacksonville, Beach Marine in Jacksonville Beach, Camachee Cove Marina in St. Augustine, and The St. Augustine Shipyard in St. Augustine, as well as reciprocal access to 415 locations in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Members can enjoy boating freedom and fun without stress through various membership options. For more information, visit www.freedomboatclub.com.

Sporting JAX brings men’s professional soccer back to Jacksonville

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Club launches inaugural USL Championship season in 2026 at UNF’s Hodges Stadium

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 30, 2025) – Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) today announced the return of high-level men’s professional soccer to Jacksonville for the first time since 2017. The club confirmed it will field a men’s professional team to compete in the USL Championship, beginning play in March 2026. Sporting JAX’s men’s team will play 18 home matches in the regular season at the University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium, which has a capacity of 9,400. The USL Championship Playoffs will follow in November. This historic milestone represents a significant step forward for the sport in Northeast Florida.

“This is a landmark moment for our city, our fans and our community,” said Steve Livingstone, President and CEO of Sporting JAX. The USL Championship provides an exceptional platform to showcase world-class soccer, and Hodges Stadium will be the heart of this new era – one that unites fans and proudly represents the First Coast. We’re proud to bring high-level men’s professional soccer back to Jacksonville.” “The University of North Florida is proud to host Sporting JAX as it makes its debut in the USL Championship,” said Nick Morrow, UNF’s Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. “UNF and Hodges Stadium have a rich history with professional soccer, and we look forward to welcoming Sporting JAX fans and the Jacksonville community to our beautiful campus.” Fans can now secure their spot at Hodges Stadium for the inaugural men’s season with a $25 season ticket deposit, which includes two free tickets to any home match for Sporting JAX’s trailblazing women’s professional team, currently competing in the Gainbridge Super League, a USL property. Full-season tickets, starting at just $12 per match, will go on sale after the USL Championship schedule is released in mid-November. The club has already registered nearly 3,000 season ticket deposits to date for the men’s team. Fans can learn more and place their $25 season ticket deposit today at www.sportingjax.com. The USL Championship, sanctioned as the second division of professional soccer in the United States, has rapidly grown into one of North America’s most competitive and respected national leagues. The league includes clubs from across the country, such as Phoenix Rising FC, Louisville City FC, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Detroit City FC and Sacramento Republic FC. Sporting JAX will compete against many of these established franchises, offering fans exciting, high-quality competition every week, with matches broadcast nationally and internationally on CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN2, and locally on Sporting JAX’s official broadcast partners. Games will also be streamed on CBS Golazo and ESPN+.

(more)

“Competing in the USL Championship is a fantastic opportunity for our club,” said Mark Warburton, Head of Soccer for Sporting JAX. “It’s a highly competitive league that’s gaining prominence each season, and we are dedicated to building a team that represents Jacksonville and competes at the highest level. After a global search, we will soon announce our men’s team head coach as a leader who shares our vision for excellence and community impact.” The addition of Sporting JAX’s men’s professional team completes a full local pathway for boys and men, from youth development to the professional level. This mirrors the structure established earlier this year with the debut of the Division I women’s professional team that currently competes at Hodges Stadium. Plans are also underway for a new 15,000-capacity community stadium and training facilities that will serve as the future home for both teams, with details to be announced in 2026. In addition to its new USL Championship team, Sporting JAX will operate a men’s pre-professional development team in USL League Two and a women’s pre-professional team in the USL W League, both expected to compete during the summer season from May through July in 2026. The club also operates a USL Youth Academy, which serves over 10,000 youth players and families across Northeast Florida. This expansion reinforces Sporting JAX’s commitment to building a community-driven soccer club, offering a full pathway from youth development to the professional stage to unite Jacksonville under one badge. For the latest Sporting JAX news, matchday updates and behind-the-scenes access, follow @Sporting_JAX across all social media platforms. About Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) Sporting Club Jacksonville, or “Sporting JAX,” was established in 2020 by a passionate group of Jacksonville-based owners and is driven by a bold vision to elevate the area’s soccer scene and “Lift Every Voice,” the club’s motto. Named in collaboration with the First Coast community in 2023, the club launched its women’s professional Gainbridge Super League team in 2024 and will debut its men’s professional USL Championship team in 2026. Sporting JAX will also spearhead the development of a 15,000-capacity community stadium and training facilities, positioning the First Coast as the new premier destination for soccer excellence. For more information, visit www.sportingjax.com.

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Media Contact: Tiffany Hutto (904) 571-5659 tiffanyhutto@sjp.com

HCA Florida Yulee Emergency hosts LifeSouth’s Bloodmobile on Monday, 10/27

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Kona Ice will also be parked at Yulee ER for cool icy drinks

YULEE, FL (October 26, 2025) - - The LifeSouth Bloodmobile will be at the newly opened Nassau County HCA Florida Yulee Emergency (462541 State Road 200, Florida 32097) at the northeast corner of I-95 and SR 200, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Kona Ice truck will also be there to cool things down from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with fan favorite icy flavors.

Blood collected by LifeSouth is used by local patients in Northeast Florida area hospitals.

Please drop by or sign up for the Yulee drive online with LiifeSouth:

HCA Florida Yulee Emergency

Blood Drive (9am-4pm) and Kona Ice truck (11a-2p)

462541 State Road 200, Florida 32097

(904)391-6300

https://donors.lifesouth.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/867235

About HCA Florida Memorial Hospital – HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is part of Florida’s largest healthcare system, HCA Florida Healthcare, comprising of 49 hospitals, 84,000 employees and 11,000 physicians operating from more than 650 care sites, over 50 urgent care centers, and more than 350 physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville is a full service, acute care, Level II Trauma hospital, Comprehensive Stroke Center DNV certified with 454 inpatient beds, a dedicated Women’s Center, and four current freestanding emergency rooms (on Atlantic Blvd. at Kernan Blvd. and in Mandarin in Jacksonville, in Julington Creek in St. Johns County and in Yulee in Nassau County). Fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is ranked as one of the top hospitals in the country for heart, lung and surgical care. It was named America’s 250 Best Hospitals 2025 by Healthgrades, putting it the top 5% nationwide for overall clinical performance, and named America’s 100 Best Orthopedic Surgery Hospitals 2025 also by Healthgrades. For more information, visit: HCAFloridahealthcare.com.

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Puff ‘n Stuff Catering & Events Expands to Jacksonville’s Phoenix Arts & Innovation District

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL – Wednesday, October 8, 2025 – The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHXJAX) is thrilled to announce that Puff ‘n Stuff Catering & Events, a leader in the Southeast’s event and hospitality industry, is the newest tenant at Emerald Station South.

With decades of experience delivering exceptional catering and event services, Puff ‘n Stuff will bring its signature creativity and excellence to Jacksonville’s North Springfield neighborhood. As the official operator of Emerald Station’s event venue, the company plans to grow the event business and offer the space as a premier gathering spot for weddings, corporate parties, milestone celebrations, and community events.

“Emerald Station is one of the most unique and versatile venues in Jacksonville, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring our vision to this space,” said Tracy Vessillo, President of Puff ‘n Stuff Catering & Events. “We look forward to partnering with PHXJAX to create memorable experiences that celebrate the creativity, culture, and community spirit of this city.”

Located in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old industrial building, Emerald Station has established itself as a hub for cultural gatherings, creative businesses, and community connection. Puff ‘n Stuff’s arrival will ensure the venue continues to evolve as a place where the city comes together to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.

“This partnership marks an exciting step in the evolution of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District,” said Tony Cho, Founder of Future of Cities and Visionary of PHXJAX. “By joining forces with Puff ‘n Stuff, we are activating Emerald Station as not only a premier event venue, but also as a community anchor that will help spark economic opportunity, cultural vibrancy, and regenerative growth in Jacksonville’s urban core.”

“We are excited to welcome Puff ‘n Stuff to PHXJAX and look forward to seeing them activate Emerald Station in new and inspiring ways,” said Emily Moody, VP & Chief Experience Officer of PHX JAX. “Their reputation for innovation and excellence in hospitality aligns perfectly with our mission of creating spaces that uplift and connect the community.”

Same great space, reimagined with Puff ‘n Stuff.

For booking inquiries, please visit Puff ‘n Stuff Jacksonville or contact Sales Director Risa Rappaport at risa@puffnstuff.com or (240) 205-6740.
For media inquiries, contact Emily Moody at emoody@phxjax.com.

WJCT Public Media Celebrates Public Radio Music Day October 29, 2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Experience a Night of Local Music Discovery with WJCT News 89.9

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — October 27, 2025 — WJCT Public Media invites listeners to join the celebration of Public Radio Music Day 2025 on Wednesday, October 29 at 9 p.m., as WJCT News 89.9 spotlights the vibrant sounds of Northeast Florida. This year’s celebration honors public radio’s vital role in supporting local music discovery and connecting communities through sound.

For 2025, WJCT will feature a special on-air showcase of its local music programs. Tune in at 9 p.m. on WJCT News 89.9, stream online or listen on the WJCT app for a preview of the weekend lineup, beginning with The Neighborhood with Mr. Al Pete, followed by Bop City, Electro Lounge and Blues Horizon. These beloved shows highlight the diversity of the Jacksonville music scene — from jazz and soul to electronic, funk and blues — all curated by the voices that make WJCT a true hub for local sound.

“Public Radio Music Day is about celebrating how public radio helps people discover new sounds and connect with the artists who define their local community,” said David Luckin, WJCT Music Director. “Our mission has always been to introduce listeners to something fresh, something inspiring and something made right here in Jacksonville. That’s what makes WJCT News 89.9 a home for music lovers.”

Each year, Public Radio Music Day, organized by the NoncomMUSIC Alliance, celebrates the unique contributions of noncommercial music stations that spotlight local artists, foster discovery and unite listeners across genres and generations.

WJCT Public Media will be participating through:

9 p.m. – The Neighborhood with Mr. Al Pete
A vibrant mix of hip-hop, R&B, soul, jazz and more, curated by Jacksonville artist and DJ Mr. Al Pete. The show celebrates the rhythm, creativity and culture that define Northeast Florida’s music scene.

10 p.m. – Bop City with Daniel Stark
Hosted by acclaimed jazz saxophonist and Friday Musicale director Daniel Stark, Bop City dives into the revolutionary spirit of bebop — the improvisational, boundary-breaking sound pioneered by legends like Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie.

11 p.m. – Electro Lounge with David Luckin
WJCT station manager David Luckin returns with his signature blend of downtempo, chill and eclectic sounds — an atmospheric soundtrack that carries listeners into the late-night hours.

12 a.m. – Blues Horizon with Andrew Wiechman
Hosted by Jacksonville native and musician Andrew Wiechman, Blues Horizon explores the best in blues and blues-inspired rock. Each episode blends music with artist interviews and insight into the local scene, creating a dynamic listening experience full of color, depth and soul.

Listeners can tune in live on WJCT News 89.9 or stream online at wjct.org/radio to be part of the celebration.

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About Public Radio Music Day:
Public Radio Music Day is hosted by the noncomMUSIC Alliance and its partners. The noncomMUSIC Alliance celebrates nonprofit, local public radio’s role in connecting artists with the communities who enjoy and support their music. Established in 2018, the Alliance currently has more than 200 partner public radio music stations, all locally owned and operated, yet united by their shared values of music discovery, curation, preservation, performance, and community. To learn more about the noncomMUSIC Alliance, please visit noncomMUSIC.org.

This year, the Alliance of Rural Public Media, an alliance dedicated to informing lawmakers and audiences about the critical work of rural public radio stations across the country, is a partner in celebrating Public Radio Music Day.

More information about Public Radio Music Day and local events across the country is available at: PublicRadioMusicDay.org

TIG NOTARO: OUT OF NOWHERE JANUARY 17, 2026 @ FLORIDA THEATRE

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

TIG NOTARO: OUT OF NOWHERE

JANUARY 17, 2026 @ FLORIDA THEATRE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 28, 2025) – The Florida Theatre and AEG Presents are proud to announce Tig Notaro: Out of Nowhere on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, October 31, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

Tig Notaro is an Emmy, Grammy, WGA, and SAG Award-nominated comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, and podcast host originally from Mississippi, and named by Rolling Stone one of the 50 best stand-up comics of all time. She appears in Season 3 of The Morning Show on Apple TV+ alongside Jennifer Aniston and Jon Hamm, and Star Trek: Discovery on Paramount+ with Michelle Yeoh. Tig recently starred in the Netflix films Your Place Or Mine with Reese Witherspoon, We Have A Ghost with Anthony Mackie, as well as Zack Snyder’s Army Of The Dead. Prior to that, she starred in the heartwarming Paramount film Instant Family alongside Mark Wahlberg and Octavia Spencer. Tig wrote, produced, and starred in the semi-autobiographical Amazon Prime Video series One Mississippi, also directing the premiere episode of Season 2. The show yielded critical acclaim and several award nominations, including WGA, GLAAD, and The Critics' Choice Awards.

Tig’s HBO standup special, Drawn, made history as the first-ever fully animated stand-up special and was nominated for a Hollywood Critics Association Award. She was previously nominated for an Emmy and a Grammy Award for her 2016 HBO special Boyish Girl Interrupted, a GLAAD Award nomination for the Netflix Original Documentary Tig, and her memoir I’m Just A Person is a New York Times Bestseller. In 2013, Tig was also nominated for a Grammy for her sophomore release, Live, which was the #1 selling comedy album in the world that year. Live is a stand-up set delivered just days after Tig was diagnosed with invasive bilateral breast cancer, from which she is now in remission. Tig remains a favorite on talk shows, including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, public radio, and continues to tour internationally.

Tig and her wife, Stephanie Allynne, co-directed the GLAAD-nominated feature film, Am I OK?, starring Dakota Johnson and Sinoya Mizuno, which premiered at Sundance 2022 before debuting on HBO Max in June 2024. Tig hosts Handsome, a critically acclaimed comedy podcast, alongside fellow comedians and co-hosts Fortune Feimster and Mae Martin. Her latest special, Tig Notaro: Hello Again, premiered in March 2024 on Prime Video, garnering multiple Emmy nominations. Additionally, Tig produced the documentary Come See Me In The Good Light, which won the Festival Favorite award at Sundance in 2025 and is set to premiere this fall on Apple TV.

To learn more, visit https://tignation.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, October 31, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

JEA Receives Statewide Recognition for Work to Build Community

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JEA received a “Building Strong Communities” award from the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) for making valuable investments that enhance the quality of life for the Jacksonville community. FMEA presented the award today (Oct. 28) at its Energy Connections Conference & Trade Show in Jacksonville.

“We are honored to be recognized for all that JEA does to deliver reliable and sustainable services -- and to strengthen the communities we proudly serve,” JEA CEO and Managing Director Vickie Cavey said. “As a public power utility, our 2,300-plus employees work to support our community and serve our customers every day.”

FMEA recognized JEA and other public power utilities for programs and projects that provide school and community education, collect charitable donations, provide customer payment assistance, and other special programs that strengthen the communities in which they serve. JEA received recognition for the following community initiatives in the past year:

Senior Day at JEA: Monthly event connecting vulnerable senior customers with essential financial resources to help manage their utility bills.
Ambassador Program Partnership with Junior Achievement: Delivered 706 classroom experiences, reaching 39,852 students during a five-year period.
Education Program: Provides free education resources to grades K-12 in the Duval County Public School System.
Power Pals, A three-week program taught by JEA employees. The program reaches first-grade students about electric safety through fun and interactive activities.
College Internships: Provides high school and college students a variety of internship and mentoring programs.
JEA Season of Giving Employee Campaign: fundraising activities to support local United Way and Creating Healthier Charities agencies.

FMEA Executive Director Amy Zubaly highlighted that Florida’s public power utilities not only serve their communities, but they also help create a sense of community. “Whether that’s inviting residents out for movies in the park to hanging holiday decorations to gathering items for a food drive, our utilities and their employees want their communities to be the best they possibly can because they live there, too,” she said.

Photos: Senior Day, JEA interns

About JEA

JEA is a municipal utility providing safe, reliable and affordable services to more than one million residents across four Northeast Florida counties. JEA is not owned by investors and does not earn a profit. It was created by the City of Jacksonville to meet the electricity and water needs of those who live in Jacksonville and surrounding communities. JEA’s 2,300-plus workforce is dedicated to meeting customer needs, both today and for generations to come, while protecting our precious natural resources and supporting our region’s growth and economic development. Learn more at jea.com.

23rd Annual Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive Hosted by WJCT Public Media Returns This November

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Community-wide collection of new and lightly used sweaters, jackets, socks and blankets begins Saturday, November 1, 2025

October 29, 2025 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media is partnering with VyStar Credit Union, Suddath and the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships — with additional support provided by Humana Healthy Horizons in Florida — to present the 23rd annual Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive. Cold-weather clothing and items — such as new or gently used sweaters, jackets, socks and blankets — will be collected November 1–30, 2025, and distributed to neighbors in need at the Clara White Mission and City Rescue Mission on Wednesday, December 10.

Donation drop-off locations include the WJCT Public Media headquarters at 100 Festival Park Avenue in Jacksonville, as well as most VyStar Credit Union branches throughout North Florida, both Suddath locations and all Tom Bush Family of Dealerships businesses.

Public media organizations across the United States have collected sweaters in honor of Fred Rogers, host of the beloved PBS series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, for more than two decades. Last year, WJCT Public Media’s Sweater Drive collected and distributed more than 10,000 pounds of warm clothing and blankets to Northeast Florida residents.

“For more than two decades, the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive has united our community in kindness,” said David McGowan, President & CEO of WJCT Public Media. “At WJCT, we’re proud to bring together partners and neighbors who share our belief that small acts of care can make a big difference. This initiative continues to reflect the heart of public media — service, compassion and connection.”

“At VyStar, we believe that kindness is a cornerstone of community,” said VyStar SVP/Foundation President Patricia McElroy. “Our continued partnership with WJCT Public Media for the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive reflects our commitment to helping neighbors in need, one sweater, one jacket, one warm gesture at a time. We’re proud to support this effort and invite the community to join us in making Northeast Florida a little warmer and a lot more caring.”

Suddath, a global moving company headquartered in Jacksonville, will again provide transportation and logistics support to help deliver donations to local distribution partners.

"We are honored to continue our participation in the Mr. Rogers Sweater Drive,” said Chad Gaither, Household Goods Operations Manager at Suddath. “At Suddath, we firmly believe in the strength of community and the significance of kindness. By assisting in the collection and delivery of donations to those in need, we pay tribute to the legacy of Mr. Rogers. Together, we can make a difference and help our neighbors stay warm this season."

The Tom Bush Family of Dealerships also returns as a presenting partner for 2025 — marking its ninth consecutive year of support.

“The Mister Rogers’ Sweater Drive is one of our favorite traditions,” said Megan Bush Del Pizzo, Vice President of the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships. “It’s incredible to see how much warmth this community can generate when we come together. We’re proud to be part of it year after year.”

DONATION DROP-OFFS:

WJCT Public Media
100 Festival Park Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Suddath Jacksonville
Both locations in Duval County can be found here.

VyStar Credit Union
Most locations in Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Putnam, Nassau and Bradford Counties. Click here for participating branch locations.

Tom Bush Family of Dealerships
All locations in Duval County can be found here.

To download a flier to share about this event, click here.

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About VyStar Credit Union

VyStar Credit Union is the second-largest credit union headquartered in Florida, with 78 full-service branches across Florida and Georgia, 1 million members and assets of over $14 billion. VyStar is the top mortgage lender in Northeast Florida and a major employer in the region with over 2,300 employees across the communities it serves. VyStar membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the 49 contiguous counties of Central to North Florida, 29 Georgia counties, and past and present military members and their families all over the world. VyStar members have access to 55,000 surcharge free ATMs worldwide. For more information, visit vystarcu.org, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.

About Suddath
Suddath has been a trusted name in Jacksonville and Florida moving for over a century. Since 1919, Suddath has grown into a global transportation, relocation management, specialized logistics and workplace services company, serving 180 countries with 2,400 employees around the globe. Each year, we move more than 80,000 households, including more than 38,000 military families through our local, long-distance and international moving services. We also provide end-to-end logistics through our NXTPoint Logistics brand, employee relocation, and commercial moving services. With more than 45 locations, a global partner network and over 3.5 million square feet of warehouse space, Suddath provides the national and global reach to take you anywhere you need to go. For more information, visit suddath.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About Tom Bush Family of Dealerships

The Tom Bush Family of Dealerships has been operating in the automotive business for nearly a century. The late Tom Bush Jr. first arrived in Jacksonville and opened a Volkswagen dealership in 1970. The family group has grown to offer Volkswagen, Mazda, BMW, MINI, VinFast, pre-owned vehicles and a certified collision center now under the leadership of Tom's son, John Bush. Vice Presidents Megan and Brian represent the fourth generation of Bush family members in the business.

They have been voted the “Best Car Dealership in Jax” by Bold City Best, one of the “Best Places to Work” by the Jacksonville Business Journal and one of the “Healthiest Companies” by the First Coast Worksite Wellness Council.

Whether a customer purchased a car from Tom Bush, Sr. in 1918, or is purchasing a car today from one of the Tom Bush dealerships, the buyer becomes part of the family. We treat our employees how we expect them to treat our customers, with honor and integrity. As Mr. B repeatedly said, "the most important part of business is people. Treat everyone with respect, be a man of your word, ask yourself if the business transaction is fair to everyone involved, and nurture long-term relationships. Think of your employees as family members as they are the life-blood of a dealership."

Press Release: Renovation underway at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

PR CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

RMHC CONTACT: Megan Weinstein (904) 422-6299 or mweinstein@rmhcjax.org

COMPANY CONTACT: Corey Hampton (816) 213-1018 or champton@cerris.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Renovation underway at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville

Nonprofit selects Cerris Builders for renovation of youth activity spaces

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2025) – Construction is in full swing on a renovation project designed to reimagine and enhance the family activity spaces at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville, which provides essential services to families staying close to their children who are receiving critical medical care.

Thanks to a lead gift from the Terry Family Foundation, the project will modernize and expand the House’s core family spaces to better support children and parents during extended stays. As part of this effort, Cerris Builders serves as the General Contractor, helping bring to life a series of thoughtful renovations that will elevate how families engage at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville.

“We are honored to support the incredible work of Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville,” said Cerris Builders Operations Manager Sam Whetstone. “We want to help ensure families have welcoming and comforting spaces during their most challenging times.”

Launched in September 2025 and projected for completion in early 2026, the renovation will modernize and reconfigure approximately 2,200 square feet of existing space into three new integrated, family-oriented areas:

•KidVenture – a child-focused play area full of imagination and fun.

•The Hangout – a cool spot designed for teens to relax and connect.

•Adventure Alley – the overall space bringing it all together for families to explore and enjoy. Adventure Alley is the connecting corridor between the teen room and the children’s space and will include a new public restroom.

Throughout the renovation, the House will remain fully operational ensuring uninterrupted support for families. The 53-room, 68,000 square-foot House in Jacksonville’s San Marco neighborhood features a movie theater, ?tness center, interactive play areas, rooftop garden and two spacious kitchen areas. Families stay at the House at no cost to them, allowing them to focus on their child’s medical journey without the burden and expense of lodging, transportation and meals.

Cerris Builders’ parent company proudly supports Ronald McDonald House Charities nationwide. For more information on Cerris Builders, visit www.cerrisbuilders.com.

Renderings:

Cerris Builders is working on a renovation project designed to reimagine and enhance the family activity spaces at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville.

KidVenture
The Hangout
Adventure Alley

About Cerris Builders

Cerris Builders is a nationally respected and relationship-driven commercial construction company specializing in preconstruction, design-build, general construction, and construction management services. Cerris Builders has offices in Austin, Dallas, Jacksonville, Kansas City, and Midland. Started as a family business in 1932, Cerris Builders became the general contracting arm of the organization in 1971 and is 100% employee-owned. The company tailors its work to deliver lasting results for clients in industries including light industrial, multifamily, hospitality, and more. Visit www.cerrisbuilders.com for more information.

About Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville

Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare. For more than 36 years, our staff, volunteers and community partners have offered lodging, meals, transportation and compassionate support to more than 44,600 families with critically ill or injured children receiving treatment in Jacksonville. To learn more about our mission and programs, visit www.rmhcjacksonville.org.

From Historic Storefront to Neighborhood Table: Oxford Place Restaurant to Open This Winter in Ortega

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The new restaurant, located in the historic Oxford & Corinthian building, will be anchored in community and southern flavor

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – October 20, 2025 – Oxford Place will open this winter in Ortega’s historic Oxford & Corinthian building located at 2902 Corinthian Avenue. The new restaurant will bring a fresh take on neighborhood dining, blending approachable elegance with seasonally driven, southern flare.

Oxford Place is designed as a refined yet relaxed space that fits naturally into the fabric of the Ortega, Avondale and Riverside communities. The restaurant aims to be a go-to gathering spot for both casual cuisine and special occasions any night of the week.

The culinary vision at Oxford Place is rooted in Southern-influence, with a focus on quality ingredients, recognizable favorites and thoughtful preparation. The seasonally changing menu will have highlights including New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, signature grit soufflé with bacon beurre blanc and blackened redfish served with Hoppin’ John. Guests can expect a variety of composed entrée salads, a signature burger and familiar entrées like steak, chicken and seafood – designed to be both satisfying and approachable. A kid’s menu will also be available, ensuring Oxford Place offers something for every member of the family.

Additionally, Oxford Place will feature dinner service upon opening, with brunch offerings expected to follow. The menu will emphasize fresh, regionally-sourced ingredients and southern flavors, with signature cocktails and curated wines rounding out the drink menu and happy hour offerings available.

Nestled in the heart of “Old” Ortega, Oxford Place will bring new energy to a beloved neighborhood landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1988. Originally designed in 1923 by the Jacksonville architecture firm Marsh and Saxelby, the building’s timeless character – defined by tall windows, high ceilings, and thoughtful craftsmanship – remains central to its charm today. In preparation for Oxford Place’s opening, Adler Interior Design has led a sensitive restoration effort to restore the old beauty of the building while maintaining the integrity of its original design, blending historic preservation with modern comfort to create a warm, welcoming space for the community once again.

Owned and operated by the Jacksonville restaurateurs behind Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken in Murray Hill, Oxford Place is led by Hughes Brown and Jerry Brown. The Ortega residents previously co-owned a fine-dining restaurant called Watermark in Nashville for 15 years. Now, the father-and-son duo are renovating the former Simply Sara’s and Fonda’s Hairstyling spaces into a new 2,900 square-footage restaurant with 120 seats, combined indoors and outdoors, and a full-service bar.

“This building has represented connection and community to this area for generations, and we want to honor that,” said Jerry Brown, co-owner of Oxford Place. “We’re not just opening a restaurant – we’re bringing new life to a building with deep roots. Our goal is to create a warm, inviting place where guests can gather often, and we look forward to having Oxford Place fill that with approachable, everyday hospitality where neighbors and new friends can unwind over great food.”

Additional details, including the official opening date, hours of operation and menu previews, will be shared in the coming months.

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ABOUT OXFORD PLACE:

Oxford Place is a refined, approachable restaurant located in the historic Oxford & Corinthian building in Jacksonville’s Ortega neighborhood. Opening in winter 2025, Oxford Place offers seasonally inspired cuisine and thoughtfully crafted cocktails in a warm, elegant setting designed for everyday dining. Locally owned and operated by established restaurateurs Hughes Brown and Jerry Brown, the restaurant is rooted in community and hospitality, serving as a gathering place for Ortega, Avondale, Riverside and beyond.

ANNOUNCING THE JACKSONVILLE PORCHFEST 2025 SCHEDULE AND MAP

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL, October 22, 2025 - Jacksonville PorchFest, presented by Corner on Main and Gateway Jax, returns to Historic Springfield on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Jacksonville PorchFest is a free, family-friendly music festival featuring 20+ live musical acts performing on Saturday, November 8th from 12 PM - 8 PM, plus food trucks, craft beer, art vendors, and more.

This year’s event takes place in the southeast quadrant of Historic Springfield (First to Fifth Street, Main Street to Walnut Street). The Welcome Tent is at E 4th Street and Market St.

A full festival map including performance schedules and locations is now available at jacksonvilleporchfest.org/schedule so that our guests can begin to plan their festival experience!

Proceeds from the festival support public arts in Jacksonville’s Urban Core. Since PorchFest began in 2014, proceeds have funded murals, sculptures, bike racks and repair stations, and more.

For information on Jacksonville PorchFest, VIP tickets, parking, and more, visit our website at jacksonvilleporchfest.org.

Thank you to our sponsors - their generosity keeps PorchFest free for the community:

? Presenting Sponsors: Corner on Main and Gateway Jax

? Diamond Sponsors: Aardwolf Brewing Company, Austin East Ciders, Liquid Death, Manifest Distilling, Yuengling

? Emerald Sponsor: Blue Water Industries

? Platinum Sponsors: 95.1 WAPE, X99.5, Easy 102.9, Hot 106.5 and PRI Productions

? Gold Sponsor: UF Health Jacksonville and VyStar Credit Union

? Silver Sponsors: AARP Jacksonville, Balch & Bingham, Dennis + Ives, FirstCoast.Life, Karpeles Grand by JPRE Development, and Visit Jacksonville

? Bronze Sponsors: Driver McAfee Hawthorne & Diebenow PLLC, Florida Blue, FOLIO, GAI Consultants | Community Solutions Group, Leaf Filter Gutter Protection, TerraWise Homes, The Sonic Planet, and Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)

? Our Partners: City of Jacksonville, Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, LISC Jacksonville, and Visit Jacksonville

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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District. Proceeds of Jacksonville PorchFest benefit arts programming in the Springfield community.

Florida Blue Foundation Supports Improving Mental Health Outcomes and Expanding the Mental Health Workforce

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – [Oct. 23, 2025] – In conjunction with National Depression Awareness Month in October, Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue and part of the GuideWell family of companies, is continuing to advance mental well-being efforts in Florida by investing $2.75 million in eight community-based programs. These initiatives will address critical mental health needs and help grow the pipeline of mental health professionals throughout the state.

By the numbers: Florida ranks 35th among all states for prevalence of mental illness and has a severe shortage of mental health providers, leaving 6 million people in communities with inadequate access to mental health care.

What they're saying:

"At Florida Blue and across the GuideWell family of companies, we believe that health starts in our communities — in the connections we build, the support we offer, and the hope we inspire. Mental well-being is at the heart of a healthy life, yet too many Floridians face barriers to getting the help they need,” said Brian Pieninck, president and CEO of GuideWell and Florida Blue. “By partnering with community organizations that know their neighborhoods best, we’re investing not only in programs, but in people — in their strength, their resilience, and their future. Together, we can create lasting change that helps people thrive.”

The 2025 mental well-being grants support the following programs:

Increasing the Pipeline of Mental Health Professionals

Agape Community Health Center (Duval County) – The Mental Health Pipeline program will provide up to 500 internships and fellowships to students and early-career professionals, addressing the mental health workforce shortage and equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality care, ultimately increasing access to mental health services for underserved populations in Jacksonville.

Children’s Home Society of Florida – Orlando (Orange County) – The ECHO: Emerging Counselors Helping Others program will empower the next generation of mental health professionals by providing supervised clinical practice, training, and support to master's level students and registered interns, aiming to increase the number of counselors by 100 statewide and address the shortage of mental health professionals in vulnerable communities.

Elizabeth H. Faulk Foundation, Inc. (Palm Beach County) – The Building the Bench: Training the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals program will provide training and hands-on experience to more than 100 student clinicians-in-training, while also offering low/no-cost mental health services to economically disadvantaged and underserved populations, through a range of programs including internships, practicum positions, and volunteer opportunities.

Addressing Community Mental Health Challenges

Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation (Escambia County) – The Sacred Support program will embed a licensed mental health therapist within Studer Family Children's Hospital to provide immediate mental health support to over 38,000 individuals, serving 10 rural Florida counties with high poverty rates and geographic isolation. The program will offer comprehensive mental health care, including individual, family, and group therapy sessions, as well as parenting support and family therapy.
Be Strong International, Inc. (Miami-Dade, and Broward counties) – The Social Yaks program is a comprehensive initiative that aims to promote mental well-being and reduce social isolation and loneliness among adolescents and senior adults in Miami-Dade and Broward counties through a card game, training program, and community awareness events. The program will be implemented in partnership with local schools and community-based organizations.
Camaraderie Foundation, Inc. (Orange County) – The Counseling Services for Military Service Members, Veterans and their Families program provides comprehensive support services, including case management and counseling, to 200 participants to address mental health challenges and promote overall well-being and reintegration into civilian life. Services will be offered in-person and virtually to accommodate the needs of military families.
Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa, Inc. (Hillsborough County) – The Life Class program empowers students to reach their academic potential, make positive choices, and develop essential life skills for future success, with a proven track record of 100% of high school graduates pursuing higher education, vocational training, or entering the military since 2014.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Inc. (Sarasota County) – The Early Childhood Mental Health Infrastructure in Rural Communities program will provide trauma-informed care to more than 200 families with young children at risk of long-term mental health challenges, building on existing community initiatives and leveraging AI technology to enhance service delivery, tracking, and evaluation.

“By supporting programs that foster mental well-being across the lifespan - from children and teens to adults and seniors - and by helping to increase the pipeline of mental health professionals, we aim to create a ripple effect of hope and healing that will be felt for generations to come,” said Susan Towler, executive director of Florida Blue Foundation. “Our goal is to help mitigate the stressors that can impact entire families and communities, and to ensure that everyone across the state, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life.”

The big picture: These latest investments build upon the Florida Blue Foundation’s multi-year initiative around fostering mental well-being solutions. In the last six years, the Foundation has awarded 69 grants, totaling $22 million to organizations to advance mental well-being.

To learn more about the Florida Blue Foundation's impact across the state, read GuideWell's latest Impact Report.

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About Florida Blue Foundation

About Florida Blue

Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, Florida Blue is the leading health insurer in Florida, and part of GuideWell, a not-for-profit health solutions company. Florida Blue offers a range of health plans and personalized care programs for individuals, families, businesses of all sizes, and Medicare beneficiaries. For over 80 years, the organization has been member centric and committed to making health care as accessible and affordable as possible. Serving more than six million members across all 67 Florida counties, Florida Blue has more than 8,000 employees and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., is owned by its policyholders, and is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

ALEIZHA BATSON | Senior Regional Communications Lead, North Florida

aleizha.batson@bcbsfl.com | 904-535-8711 mobile

North Florida Land Trust has received a donation of land in Southeast St. Johns County

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

The 4-acre property is in the Matanzas Inlet Beach neighborhood near the Summer Haven community

Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 24, 2025 – North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) has received a donation of 4 acres of land in southeast St. Johns County, south of the Matanzas Inlet. The land was given to NFLT by St. Johns Wildlife Care, Inc., who reached out to the nonprofit land conservation organization to offer the land for conservation. The property is in a tidally influenced salt marsh and is surrounded by homes in the Matanzas Inlet Beach subdivision and is just west of the coastal Summer Haven neighborhood.

“This land is in an area that is very attractive to developers, but thankfully the property owners realized the value in keeping this land in its natural state,” said Allison DeFoor, president and CEO of NFLT. “We appreciate that they reached out to us to take ownership and preserve this land because it is now or never. This is a real win for community conservation.”

This 4-acre property is densely populated with a variety of vegetation including black mangrove, southern red cedar, oak, Indian blanket flower, sabal palm, and many other plant species. Keeping this property in its natural state in perpetuity helps create a refuge for wildlife to allow them to thrive.

The conservation value of the property fits within NFLT’s Salt Marsh and Climate Resilience Priority Preservation Area, with a focus on protecting salt marshes and coastal habitats that provide vital benefits to the community. Protecting this land will assist with climate resilience and can help buffer hurricane effects, prevent flooding, and reduce storm surge.

NFLT will own and manage the land in accordance with NFLT’s conservation mission. NFLT plans to add signage surrounding the property and will conduct ongoing cleanup, which could include future volunteer events as tides and people may bring in debris.

About North Florida Land Trust

North Florida Land Trust is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life by protecting North Florida's irreplaceable natural environment. Founded in 1999, NFLT has preserved tens of thousands of acres of land through the donation or purchase of land as well as conservation easements. NFLT is funded largely by private and corporate contributions and works closely with willing landowners and public agencies at all levels of government, not-for-profit partners, and foundations. For more information, visit nflt.org.

Feeding Northeast Florida Hosts Thanksgiving Pack-Out

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

November 6-8, 2025

WHAT:

Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) will host a Harvest Helpings massive pack-out event at its headquarters (located at 5245 Old Kings Road) to prepare for the upcoming holiday season. Guests will join FNEFL staff and volunteers to make a difference in a new and meaningful way. On November 6-8, volunteers will help pack 4,000 complete holiday meal boxes that will directly impact Thanksgiving celebrations across our region.

The boxes packed at the event will be distributed across FNEFL’s 12-county service area in time for the Thanksgiving holiday through its annual Harvest Helpings campaign. The organization expects to feed up to 40,000 people this year.

Don’t miss your chance to give back and pack-out the food bank! Individual tickets to participate as well as corporate sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Jackie Culver (jculver@feedingnefl.org) for more information.

Please note: This is NOT a distribution event!

WHEN:
November 6-8
Multiple shifts are available.

Don’t miss out –– Friday’s shifts are sold out!

WHERE:

Feeding Northeast Florida

5245 Old Kings Rd

Jacksonville, FL 32254

VISUALS:

Images of previous pack-out events can be found here: https://feedingnortheastflorida.smugmug.com/Feeding-Northeast-Florida-Photos/FNEF-Events/20250509-Summer-Snackdown-OKR

CONTACT:

For media inquiries, contact:

Ashley Williams

904-707-0475 (cell) • ashley@wearewingard.com

Mark your calendars, on March 21, Cosmic Baseball is coming to Jacksonville

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Fans are able to enter Cosmic Baseball lottery to purchase tickets

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – After the initial announcement that Jacksonville will be glowing cosmic in 2026, Cosmic Baseball is excited to announce the game date for VyStar Ballpark is March 21, 2026. Fans are able to enter the Cosmic Ticket Lottery for a chance to purchase 2026 tickets by clicking HERE.

As seen on The Today Show, ABC News, Sports Illustrated, MLB Network, and many more, Cosmic Baseball is flipping America’s favorite pastime on its head with an electrifying, glow-in-the-dark twist. Fans can watch two professional Cosmic teams: The Cosmic Chili Peppers and The Glow Mojis take the field under black light in a jaw-dropping spectacle. The show is part baseball, part neon-fueled party, and 100% unforgettable. Neon uniforms, UV-reactive baseballs, and electrifying entertainment make Cosmic Baseball a must-see event. Fans can stay up to date with news regarding the VyStar Ballpark tour stop by following @gochilipeppers on instagram or by visiting https://chilipeppersbaseball.com.

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THE LITTLE RIVER BAND RETURNS TO THE FLORIDA THEATRE STAGE ON MARCH 7, 2026 WITH SPECIAL GUEST BILLY JOEL LEGENDS LIVE! THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET JUST ADDED!

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

THE LITTLE RIVER BAND RETURNS TO THE FLORIDA THEATRE STAGE ON MARCH 7, 2026

WITH SPECIAL GUEST BILLY JOEL LEGENDS LIVE! THE LORDS OF 52^ND STREET JUST ADDED!

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 22, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre is proud to announce the return of the Little River Band with special guest Billy Joel Legends Live! The Lords of 52^nd Street just added on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets are still available. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

The Little River Band has captivated audiences worldwide with its signature sound, blending rock, pop, and soulful melodies.

Through the ’70s and ’80s, the Little River Band (LRB) enjoyed huge chart success with multiplatinum albums and chart-topping hits like: “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” “Lonesome Loser,” “Lady,” “The Night Owls,” “Take It Easy On Me,” “Help Is On Its Way,” “Happy Anniversary,” “We Two,” “Man On Your Mind,” “The Other Guy,” and “It’s A Long Way There.”

With a legacy of chart-topping hits, the band has solidified its place in music history and continues to attract generations of devoted fans.

Current band membership is anchored by bassist and lead singer Wayne Nelson…a 45-year LRB veteran. He is joined on stage by keyboardist and Dove Award-winning producer Chris Marion, drummer Ryan Ricks, and guitarists Colin Whinnery and Bruce Wallace. All five are accomplished singers and deliver the signature LRB lead vocals and harmonies at every show.

Eagles founding member, the late Glenn Frey, joined with LRB as a guest artist in 1988 for two Australian tours…culminating with a live TV performance at Expo ’88. He spoke from the heart at that last show when he dubbed the Little River Band “the best singing band in the world” in front of 125,000 concertgoers. The current lineup of LRB takes that accolade to heart each and every time they perform.

To learn more, visit https://reallittleriverband.com/.

For over four decades, The Lords of 52nd Street have been celebrated as Billy Joel’s original band, delivering the same energy and authenticity that made hits like "Piano Man," "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant," "You May Be Right," and “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” legendary. The Lords of 52^nd Street is a rock band comprised of Richie Cannata, Liberty Devito, and Russell Javors – all members of Billy Joel’s live and recording band who have joined forces to play Billy Joel’s hits as only they can.

For more info about these legends, visit www.lordsof52ndst.com.

Tickets are still available to this dynamic duo. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Little River Band

The Little River Band is an Australian rock band formed in Melbourne. The band achieved commercial success both in Australia and the United States with a string of hits throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. Known for their harmonies and polished production, the Little River Band has sold over 30 million records worldwide, earning them a place as one of Australia's most significant bands of all time.

About the Florida Theatre

Eighth annual Very Shrimpy Christmas presented by Fun 4 First Coast Kids set for Dec. 6

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:07:21 GMT

Fans can kick off holiday season with photos with Santa, crafts and holiday classics on the videoboard

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are inviting families to kick off the holiday season with the eighth annual Very Shrimpy Christmas presented by Fun 4 First Coast Kids from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, December 6 at VyStar Ballpark. Admission is only $1 per person, with free parking available in Lot P.

Fans can enjoy free pictures with Santa Claus, holiday crafts, vendor tables with treats and visits from Jumbo Shrimp mascots as the HD videoboard at VyStar Ballpark screens holiday movie classics. Concessions, holiday treats and refreshments will be available for purchase. Additionally, the VyStar Credit Union Souvenir Store will be open.

A Very Shrimpy Christmas is a stroller and wheelchair-accessible event with seating available both on the concourse and in the stadium seating bowl. The field will not be open for this event, and no outside food or beverages will be permitted into the ballpark.

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MOCA Jacksonville Launches Catalog Featuring New Scholarship on Local History

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:06:59 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

October 20, 2025

CONTACT:

Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications & Marketing

amber.sesnick@unf.edu // 904.620.3224

MOCA Jacksonville Launches Catalog Featuring New Scholarship on Local History

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), a part of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida, announces a Book Launch event for the release of its newest catalog.

On Wednesday, October 29, 2025 from 7 to 9 p.m., MOCA Jacksonville will celebrate the launch of its newest catalog, The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman's Club Exhibition Rediscovered, written and researched by guest curator and art historian Dr. P. Scott Brown, Interim Dean of the Hicks Honors College at the University of North Florida. The catalog provides an in-depth view of MOCA's current exhibition by the same name. This event will begin with a presentation by Dr. Brown in MOCA's Theater, followed by a book signing. The event is free to attend on a first come, first served basis. Seats may be reserved by pre-ordering a copy of the catalog.

The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman’s Club Exhibition Rediscovered reassembles core works from a forgotten but seminal Modernist exhibition mounted in March 1924 by the Woman’s Club of Jacksonville and the newly founded Jacksonville Fine Arts Society (now MOCA). Planned to mark the beginning of the museum’s second century in 2025, The Armory South tells several related stories of essential importance to the history of women in Modern art, the introduction of Modernism to the American South, and the ideas and relationships shaping American art in the mid-1920s.

ABOUT DR. P. SCOTT BROWN

Peter Scott Brown, PhD, is an associate professor of medieval art history at the University of North Florida. He has a bachelor's degree from Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, and master's and doctorate degrees in art history from Yale University. Brown is a specialist in medieval art history with particular focuses on Romanesque sculpture and the liturgical and popular receptions of medieval art. His research and publications address topics including the origins of medieval architectural sculpture, architectural sculpture and liturgy, spolia in medieval art, epigraphy in medieval sculpture, the restoration of medieval sculpture, and iconographies of women and the profane. Brown joined the faculty of the University of North Florida in 2005 and teaches widely on the critical interpretation of art and on the art of the Middle Ages and early modern period in courses including art appreciation, medieval art and architecture, Romanesque art, northern Renaissance and northern baroque art, and the apocalypse in art. He has served on MOCA Jacksonville’s Board of Trustees since 2015.

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. In 2009, MOCA became a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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See Pat Metheny Live On March 17, 2026 @ Florida Theatre

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:06:39 GMT

NEWS RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

SEE PAT METHENY LIVE IN SIDE-EYE III+

ON MARCH 17, 2026 @ FLORIDA THEATRE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 20, 2025) – The Florida Theatre is proud to announce Pat Metheny in Side-Eye III+ on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

With the release of his first album, Bright Size Life (1975), Pat Metheny reinvented the traditional "jazz guitar" sound for a new generation of players. Throughout his career, Metheny has continued to redefine the genre by utilizing new technology and constantly working to evolve the improvisational and sonic potential of his instrument.

Metheny’s versatility is almost without peer on any instrument. Over the years, he has performed with artists as diverse as Steve Reich to Ornette Coleman to Herbie Hancock to Jim Hall to Milton Nascimento, to David Bowie. Metheny's body of work includes compositions for solo guitar, small ensembles, electric and acoustic instruments, large orchestras, and ballet pieces, with settings ranging from modern jazz to rock to classical.

It is one thing to attain popularity as a musician, but it is another to receive the kind of acclaim Metheny has garnered from critics and peers. Over the years, Metheny has won countless polls as "Best Jazz Guitarist" and awards, including three gold records for Still Life (Talking), Letter from Home, and Secret Story. He has also won 20 Grammy Awards in 12 different categories, including Best Rock Instrumental, Best Contemporary Jazz Recording, Best Jazz Instrumental Solo, and Best Instrumental Composition. The Pat Metheny Group won an unprecedented seven consecutive Grammys for seven consecutive albums.

Metheny has spent most of his life on tour, averaging between 120-240 shows a year since 1974. He continues to be one of the brightest stars of the jazz community, dedicating time to both his own projects and those of emerging artists and established veterans alike, helping them to reach their audience as well as realizing their own artistic visions.

To learn more, visit https://patmetheny.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital to Host “Crush the Crisis” Prescription Drug Take Back Day on October 25

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:05:40 GMT

Media contact:

Rachel Feller

904.947.9900

Rachel.Berry2@HCAHealthcare.com

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital to Host “Crush the Crisis” Prescription Drug Take Back Day on October 25

Jacksonville, Florida – October 20, 2025 – HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital announced today that it is hosting its “Crush the Crisis” prescription drug take back day on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 to help raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe and proper disposal of unused or expired medications. The event, which coincides with the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, offers the community an opportunity to safely and anonymously dispose of medications before they fall into the wrong hands.

National drug overdose deaths decreased by nearly 27% in 2024 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, prescription drug misuse remains a public health crisis in the United States.

At HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, caring for Clay County is who we are,” said Dr. Bradford Smith, Chief Medical Officer. “Crush the Crisis is more than a one-day event; it’s a reflection of our deep commitment to the community’s health and safety. By giving people a responsible way to dispose of unused or expired medications, we’re taking meaningful steps to support healthier futures.”

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital is participating as part of HCA Healthcare’s seventh annual national “Crush the Crisis” prescription drug take back day. Since 2019, HCA Healthcare has helped safely dispose of more than 88,000 pounds of unused or expired medication. This year marks another milestone in HCA Healthcare’s ongoing effort to reach 100,000 pounds of safely collected medications.

Law enforcement officers from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office will be collecting tablets, capsules and patches of Hydrocodone (Norco, Lortab, Vicodin), Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet), Tramadol (Ultram), Codeine, Fentanyl (Duragesic), Morphine, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) and Oxymorphone (Opana). Ointments, lotions, drops, liquid medication in leak-proof containers, vape cartridges without batteries and pet medication will also be accepted. Any medications will be accepted; however, needles, syringes, lancets or liquids will not be accepted.

As a part of their commitment to combat prescription drug misuse, HCA Healthcare, the parent company of HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, has worked with the National Academy of Medicine’s (NAM) Action Collaborative on Countering the U.S. Opioid Epidemic.

HCA Healthcare uses data from approximately 44 million annual patient encounters to help continuously improve care. The organization uses the science of “big data” to reduce prescription drug misuse and transform pain management, with initiatives in surgical, emergency and other care settings, including:

Enhanced Surgical Recovery (ESR): a multi-modal approach to pain management using pre, intra and post-operative interventions to optimize outcomes. HCA Healthcare’s ESR programs have demonstrated significant improvements in surgical recovery and patient satisfaction, including decreases in opioid usage.

Electronic Prescribing of Controlled Substances (EPCS): aims to stem increasing rates of opioid-related addiction, misuse diversion and death by making it more difficult for medication-seekers to doctor-shop and alter prescriptions. Physicians have access to aggregated electronic health records, providing data that will allow them to prescribe opioids judiciously.

“Crush the Crisis” will take place at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital at 2001 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073. For more information, visit hcahealthcare.com/crushthecrisis or call toll-free number at (833) 582-1970.

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About HCA Florida Healthcare in Jacksonville

National Rodent Awareness Week: Turner Pest Control Shares Rodent Prevention Tips

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA ALERT

Turner Pest Control Helps Homeowners Get Ready for Rodent Season During National Rodent Awareness Week

WHAT:

National Rodent Week is here –– from Sunday, October 19 through Saturday, October 25 –– and Turner Pest Control, an Anticimex company and leading provider of pest management solutions in Florida, is helping homeowners prepare for the cooler months ahead by protecting their homes from rodents and other wildlife.

Each year, rodents invade nearly 21 million U.S. homes, most often in the fall and winter. These unwanted guests don’t just chew through food packages and electrical wiring – they can also spread diseases, contaminate surfaces and trigger allergies.

As temperatures drop, Turner Pest Control is educating the public on how to safeguard their homes and offering savings on their innovative SMART Rodent Control system – Florida’s only 24/7 digital monitoring solution that detects and prevents infestations before they spread.

Homeowners should keep an eye out for:

Small droppings near food, under sinks, or along walls
Gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture or wiring
Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings, especially at night
Nests made of shredded paper, fabric or insulation

“Rodents are more than a nuisance, they’re a health and safety risk,” said Donnie Sanderson, Head of SMART at Turner Pest Control. “Our SMART technology takes the guesswork out of rodent control, giving homeowners peace of mind through continuous monitoring and rapid response.”

While DIY methods may offer temporary relief, rodents are resilient and often return without proper intervention. Partnering with a trusted provider like Turner Pest Control ensures both residential and commercial properties stay protected year-round through expert inspection, prevention and proactive treatment – allowing for long-term peace of mind this rodent season and beyond.

For more information and to learn more about Turner Pest Control, visit www.turnerpest.com.

WHEN:

National Rodent Awareness Week from Sunday, October 19 through Saturday, October 25

WHO:

Representatives from Turner Pest Control can be available for interviews throughout October. To ensure availability of spokespeople, please contact Alaina Bundy with Wingard.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alaina Bundy

Wingard

alaina@wearewingard.com

(904) 305-2054

Jacksonville Symphony presents its annual Children’s Music Festival on October 26, 2025

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

What: The 2025/26 Season brings the return of the Children’s Music Festival, a day of music and hands-on activities. The festival starts with an hour-long concert, Vivaldi’s Ring of Mystery, presented by Classical Kids LIVE! that features the music of Antonio Vivaldi in an interactive experience with story-telling, acting and live music by Jacksonville Symphony musicians. Hands-on activities in the lobby will take place following the concert, including conducting an ensemble, arts & crafts and an instrument zoo. This program is recommended for ages six and up.

When: Sunday, October 26 at 3:00 p.m. | Lobby activities at 4:00 p.m.

Where: Jacksonville Symphony, 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Who: Nathaniel Efthimiou, Conductor Classical Kids LIVE! Musicians of the Jacksonville Symphony

Title Sponsor Mayo Clinic · Sponsored by AT&T

Tickets to the events are currently on sale to the public, and there is always space for our media partners. If you are interested in attending this event or would like to schedule a photo opportunity, please let me know. For questions, please contact Savannah Silliman, Marketing and Public Relations Manager, via phone or email.

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Media Contact: Savannah Silliman

Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony ssilliman@jaxsymphony.com

Feeding Northeast Florida Launches Second Annual Holiday Ornament Campaign

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA ADVISORY

Feeding Northeast Florida Partners Launches Second Annual Ornament Campaign

WHAT:

Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) officially launched its second annual holiday ornament campaign yesterday (October 16) in commemoration of World Food Day. Now through December 5, friends of the food bank can claim their limited edition “Ugly Sweater” themed 2025 ornament to commemorate all the hard work FNEFL does all year.

The ornaments are crafted in house and make a perfect gift this holiday season! The limited edition keepsake serves a beautiful purpose –– uniting families to fight food insecurity in our community. For a $30 donation, you can help provide everything a local family needs to enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal –– turkey, sides, and all the trimmings! –– and bring home this year’s collectible ornament as a reminder of the difference you’ve made.

WHEN:
October 16 - December 5

COST:
Ornaments can be requested through the food bank’s website for a donation of $30.

VISUALS:
Images of this years’ ornament can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/whnyym1u6i0ev1gkfxt84/AJ2vIQcXMW0GsixnLc9Bw7s?rlkey=k314u18lhj6pnk7jcrguc9la9&st=5u81f3f4&dl=0

CONTACT:
For media inquiries, contact:

Ashley Williams

904-707-0475 (cell) • ashley@wearewingard.com

Invite + EMBARGOED Announcement

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

EMBARGOED UNTIL:

October 18, 2025 at 2 p.m.

CONTACT:

Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications & Marketing

amber.sesnick@unf.edu // 904.620.3224

EMBARGOED

MOCA Jacksonville Announces Local Winners of

Jax Contemporary: MOCA Arts Triennial

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville announced the winners of its inaugural juried exhibition Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Art Triennial, at its Fall Arts Celebration on October 18, 2025. The exhibition features 64 Northeast Florida artists, of which five have been selected for awards. This new exhibition series seeks to support and promote the contemporary art practices of our area, sharing the broad vitality of artistic voices representing this moment in history in Northeast Florida with the general public and to deepen the museum’s relationship with the local arts community, while fostering the growth of the local arts ecosystem. The winners were honored at an award ceremony and received hand-crafted awards created by Burnt Glassworks, along with cash prizes of $2,500 for best in show, and $500 each for the Second Place, Third Place, Visiting Curator’s Choice, and People’s Choice Awards.

Thank you to all the artists who contributed to this first iteration of Jax Contemporary and to the vibrancy of our cultural community! The establishment of this triennial is a testament to the dedication of our local artists. As this triennial unfolds in the coming years, it should be a reminder of the value of our collective investment in the future of Jacksonville’s creative spirit. We hope you will join us for its next iteration in 2028.

THE WINNERS

THE JAMES W. DOYLE PRIZE FOR BEST IN SHOW: ERIN KENDRICK

Coyote, 2025, Acrylic, gouache, charcoal on Arches watercolor paper, 46 x 64 inches, Courtesy of the artist

As the winner of the Best in Show award, Erin Kendrick’s work, Coyote, will be acquired and become part of the permanent collection of MOCA Jacksonville.

Erin Kendrick is a multidisciplinary artist, designer, and educator based in Jacksonville, Florida. Her color-rich portraiture largely focuses on the lived experiences of Black women and girls, addressing themes of space, selfhood, and safety. Her paintings invite viewers to contemplate their role in the visual narrative, blurring the lines between spectator and spectacle, and engaging viewers in an oppositional gaze that fosters introspection and connection.

“In her ongoing portrait series,” says Doherty, “Kendrick uses the literary device of fable to give expression to larger issues in our society and, by charging her colors, patterns, and postures with such expressionism, creates beautiful, vivid and arresting artworks.”

Artist Statement: Coyote, captures the moment a child realizes the great American hero isn’t coming to save her. Wearing her Uvalde Robb Elementary mascot t-shirt, she sees imminent danger and takes on a fighting stance. The mask and cape, no longer for play; become her armor. She understands now that survival is in her own hands. The layered, fractured color reflects both her innocence and the chaos she is enduring. Her skin vibrates with energy—fear, strength, urgency—because she is still just a child, yet she understands what’s at stake. Coyote is about resilience, reckoning, and the stories we tell children about safety and heroism—stories that, for too many, unravel far too soon.

SECOND PLACE: MICO FUENTES

Boiling Point, 2024, Enamel screen print, metal acrylic, Lenticular Lens, LED light, 48 x 34 x 13 inches, Courtesy of the artist

“In his works, Mico Fuentes tackles serious topics in our society straight on, but in an unexpected manner, using a combination of screenprints, plexiglass, and LED tubes to create a world within a world,” stated Rouse. “This is what he has done with Boiling Point, recording the historic demonstrations in our local San Marco neighborhood to protest police brutality and racial injustice in June of 2020.”

Fuentes is a visual artist who lives and works in Jacksonville, FL. His work utilizes the principles of printmaking and employs semiotics and discarded materials to communicate the concepts of value, consumerism, and the witness of the natural world. By creating next generation artifacts through a process he calls ‘Conceptual Objectification,’ his work uses place and time to reflect on the fallible nature of humanity and its tendency to evolve.

THIRD PLACE: RUSSELL SATTERTHWAITE

Stumpy, 2024, Photography, 48 x 72 inches, Courtesy of the artist

Russell Satterthwaite is a resident of Georgetown in Putman County and a nationally and internationally recognized award-winning nature and wildlife photographer. His images are bold, clean, and capture the ever-changing landscapes and underwater beauty of the natural world.

“We have many artists in our community who celebrate the incredible nature of Northeast Florida through their art,” Rouse said. “Satterthwaite’s Stumpy, awash with golden notes, captures the stillness and beauty of a moment in that nature, as we also register the current peril of one of Florida’s most iconic trees.”

VISITING CURATOR’S CHOICE: ANA ION LEONTE

Stinger Mass, 2025, Ceramic and glaze, 6 x 3 x 3feet, Courtesy of the artist

“I was immediately impressed with Ana's ceramic practice which was both bold and innovative,” said Wilford. “The piece she included in the exhibition shows that she used this opportunity to push her practice, and the result is a compelling sculpture that speaks to what I hope is just the beginning of a long and exciting career for her.”

Ana Ion Leonte is a Romanian-American ceramic sculptural artist currently working in Florida. Her artistic practice is rooted in a mixture of organic and sometimes mechanical abstract ceramic forms, often allegories for the human condition originating from conceptual ideals. She draws inspiration from personal experiences with nature, cultures, and anthropological matters between Eastern European cultural values and modern society. Her paintings and sculptures are defined by compositions of shapes and colors that emerge from experiences that spark questions and curiosities about challenging social conformity and examining the toxicity of value, all while allowing formalism and material intuition to guide the creative process.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: SHAUN THURSTON

Lotus Lesson, 2025, Acrylic on panel, 48 x 72 inches, Courtesy of the artist

While each of the other awards was selected by the museum’s team of curators, the People’s Choice award was selected by museum visitors who were invited to vote for their favorite work of art in the exhibition during their visit. With more than 1,500 votes cast, this award represents the work that resonated the most with our community.

“I love this painting!” said one of the museum’s youngest voters, Violet, age 6. “It inspires me. I like the pretty colors. I love all of the detail and that the middle stuff looks like crystals. And I really like the orb in the middle of the flower!”

Thurston is a Jacksonville native with artistic roots in street art and graffiti. His 20-year career has been defined by his dynamic blend of fine art and public murals, the latter of which have become a ubiquitous part of Jacksonville’s visual identity. With the natural world at their core, his paintings are a balance of control and chaos, refinement and impulse. Thurston’s work can also be seen in Project Atrium: Muralists in Action, on view at MOCA Jacksonville through February15, 2026.

ABOUT JAX CONTEMPORARY: MOCA JACKSONVILLE ARTS TRIENNIAL

Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Art Triennial, is presented by Dolf and Anna James. This triennial series seeks to support and promote the contemporary art practices of our area, sharing the broad vitality of artistic voices that represent Northeast Florida. It is intended to deepen the museum’s relationship with the local arts community, while fostering the growth of the local arts ecosystem, and it underscores the vital importance of nurturing local artists.

Exhibiting artists and winners were selected by a team at MOCA Jacksonville and guest curator Adeze Wilford, the Blackmon Perry Curator of African American Art & Art of the African Diaspora at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, from submissions resulting from a call to artists from Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau Putnam, and St. Johns Counties. All selected artists were provided with professional development opportunities, including professional guidance, studio visits, critique from the selecting curators, opportunities to speak about their work, and participation in public programs at the museum.

When Jax Contemporary closes on November 9, 2025, the winning artist’s work will remain at MOCA for a small exhibition in the lobby from November 14, 2025 through January 25, 2026. MOCA’s first floor, including the lobby, Atrium gallery, and Setlan Coffee Co., is always free to visit during regular museum hours.

This triennial exhibition fulfills MOCA’s mission by activating and engaging our local communities in contemporary art, offering patrons an opportunity to connect with local artists and cultural producers that explore national contemporary aesthetic discourses and ideas from a Florida First Coast perspective. The next iteration of this series will take place in 2028.

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) is the largest and most public facing asset of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida. Located in the heart of historic Downtown, MOCA is one of the city’s most significant cultural assets. As the oldest art museum in Northeast Florida and one of the first contemporary art museums to be established in the United States, MOCA is focused on promoting the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time.

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. MOCA has been part of the University of North Florida since 2009 and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

VISITOR INFORMATION

MOCA Jacksonville is open every Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can access the museum free of charge during weekly VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA and twice monthly Free Museum Nights presented by Florida Blue on first and third Wednesdays from 5 to 9 p.m. For more information including general admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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Youth Crisis Center Ribbon Cutting

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fl., October 21st, 2025 – Youth Crisis Center is proud to announce the ribbon cutting ceremony for The MILLS: Maternity Independent Living and Life Skills Program, a new residential community designed to support pregnant young women and mothers ages 18–24 with children under the age of two.
The ribbon cutting will take place on Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. on the Youth Crisis Center campus located at 3015 Parental Home Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32216.
The MILLS features 9 fully furnished tiny homes on the Youth Crisis Center campus, offering young mothers and their children a safe and supportive environment as they build toward stability and independence. This innovative program provides residential living, life skills training, academic and career development, parenting classes, and mental health support, all tailored to empower young families to rise above adversity.
Established in 1974 as Florida’s first runaway program, Youth Crisis Center has grown into one of the largest and best-known providers of services for youth and families in Northeast Florida. The organization continues to fulfill its mission to build a healthier community by empowering young people and families to rise above adversity, offering programs that address crisis care, mental health, family counseling, transitional living, and more.
The MILLS program is made possible through the generous support of community partners, donors, and advocates who share YCC’s vision for creating opportunities for young women and their children to thrive. Guests attending the ribbon cutting are encouraged to bring diapers and wipes to help stock The Mills’ community supply closet for incoming residents.
For more information about Youth Crisis Center and The MILLS program, visit
www.youthcrisiscenter.org.

BREW & BARBECUE RETURNS TO JAMES WELDON JOHNSON PARK FOR YEAR NINE

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL - October 16, 2025 - Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park joins with two-time event sponsor Visit Jacksonville to present Brew & Barbecue this Fall on Saturday, November 15th, 2025, from 5 pm to 10 pm. Your favorite JWJ Park festival is back for year NINE and it’s going to be better than ever!

As always, festival goers can expect barbecue themed cuisine from this year’s featured food trucks - Butt Hutt Smokehouse, Fae’s BBQ, and Moore’s BBQ - as well as offerings from Good Food 24/7, Seitanic Jax - a vegan only food option, Millie’s Handmade Ice Cream, Sunshine Poppers, and Pop-A-Pples. Attendees can also expect to choose from over 20 beers from Ruby Beach, Grace Note, Sun King, and other local and regional breweries; an eclectic blend of vendors; and great music from Groove Coalition - a Jacksonville-based band that loves to GROOVE HARD to 70’s, 80’s and 90’s R&B Music, and festival headliners SMOKESTACK (with special guest and JWJ Park Live @ Lunch fave Paul Ivey) - one of Northeast Florida’s most prominent up-and-coming bands - bringing a sound that’s a fusion of Blues, Southern Rock, a dash of funk, soul, and country.

The festival is presented by Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, family friendly, and free to attend. However, there are VIP packages available (visit tinyurl.com/BrewAndBBQ2025VIP) for $30 that include access to a VIP area with shade and dance area closest to the stage, air-conditioned Port-a-Jon, a tasting Cup good for UNLIMITED BEER, and one free raffle ticket entry in our Prize Giveaways! Limited seating will be available at this event; however, you are welcome to bring your own chair. Dogs are welcome too!

For more information, please visit JamesWeldonJohnsonPark.org

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About James Weldon Johnson Park

Discover more at: www.JamesWeldonJohnsonPark.org and on our James Weldon Johnson Park social feeds.

About Visit Jacksonville

Visit Jacksonville is a Destinations International accredited Destination Marketing Organization contracted by the Duval County Tourist Development Council (TDC) to champion the growth of business and leisure tourism in Jacksonville. For a closer look at all there is to see and do in Jacksonville, go to VisitJacksonville.com or contact 800-733-2668.

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FLORIDA THEATRE ANNOUNCES A NEW CORPORATE PARTNER: O’STEEN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP - THE OFFICIAL CAR DEALERSHIP OF THE FLORIDA THEATRE

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

FLORIDA THEATRE ANNOUNCES A NEW CORPORATE PARTNER:

O’STEEN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP - THE OFFICIAL CAR DEALERSHIP OF THE FLORIDA THEATRE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 16, 2025) – The Florida Theatre has a new corporate partner: O’Steen Automotive Group. As such, O’Steen Automotive Group is now the official car dealership of the Florida Theatre.

“We’ve been partners of the Florida Theatre before,” said Chip O’Steen, President/COO of O’Steen Auto Group. “Years ago, I was on the Board of Directors and got to know Numa (Saisselin, President of the Florida Theatre) and learned about the Theatre and the impact that it makes on the community. We are really lucky as a City to have a theatre like the Florida Theatre. So we are really happy this time to come around and be the automotive sponsor of the Theatre.”

O’Steen Auto Group has five locations/dealerships, two of which are in Jacksonville: O’Steen Volkswagen at 11401 Philips Hwy and O’Steen Volvo at 10863 Philips Hwy.

To learn more about how your organization can become a Corporate Partner and support the historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre, please email Michele Adams (Development Director) at michelle@floridatheatre.com.

To see the video interview with Chip O’Steen and Numa Saisselin, please click here.

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About O’Steen Automotive Group

At O'Steen Auto Group, we're driven by heart and a deep commitment to giving back to the community that has supported us for so many years. We believe in making a positive impact beyond the dealership, whether it's through charitable partnerships, volunteer efforts, or local initiatives. Our dedication to serving others is at the core of everything we do, and we're proud to support the people and causes that make our community stronger. Together, we drive change, spread kindness, and work to build a brighter future for all. To learn more, visit www.osteenautogroup.com.

About the Florida Theatre

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Donates more than $31,000 to Dreams Come True 5K event

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride at (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Donates more than $31,000 to Dreams Come True 5K event

Company’s donations support dreams of children with life-threatening conditions

ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 16, 2025) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty Realtors and employees laced up their running and walking shoes for the Dreams Come True 5K, donating more than $31,000 to the First Coast's only locally based nonprofit organization dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of children battling life-threatening medical conditions. The company’s associates formed branch office teams, creating friendly competition for their 5K participation and fundraising activities.

In conjunction with the Dreams Come True 5K, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty volunteers staffed the Dreams Come True WJXT Channel 4 Phone Bank, answering phones and soliciting donations for the nonprofit organization. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is proud to be a community partner of Dreams Come True.

“We are deeply committed to supporting the mission of this wonderful organization,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “Our company believes in creating a positive impact in others’ lives, and we are grateful for the support we received from our incredible team, partners and friends to assist and contribute to this wonderful organization that helps local children in Northeast Florida experience dreams that bring hope, joy and healing.”

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com or FLNetworkRealty.com.

Photography

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty volunteered and took part in the Dreams Come True 5K

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com, flnetworkrealty.com or call (904) 296-6400.

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Turner Pest Control Expands Florida Footprint with Acquisition of Pest Eliminators, Inc.

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Media Contact:

Alaina Bundy

alaina@wearewingard.com

904.305.2054

Turner Pest Control Expands Florida Footprint with Acquisition of Pest Eliminators, Inc.

Strategic investment strengthens Turner’s reach into Southwest Florida while enhancing customer offerings with eco-friendly pest control solutions

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – October 15, 2025 – Turner Pest Control, an Anticimex company and leading provider of pest management solutions in Florida, today announced the acquisition of Pest Eliminators, Inc. – headquartered in Port Charlotte, the company serves customers across eight counties in Southwest Florida.

Founded in 2001 and family-owned, Pest Eliminators, Inc. has earned a trusted reputation for delivering effective and environmentally friendly pest control services, specializing in termites, rodents, bed bugs and more. With a strong local presence in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Desoto, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties, the company is known for its commitment to safety through organic treatment options.

“Pest Eliminators, Inc. has built an outstanding legacy of service, and we are honored to welcome their customers and team into the Turner Pest Control family,” said Turner Pest Control President Kevin Poland. “Together, we are combining Pest Eliminators, Inc.’s local expertise with Turner’s resources and innovations to deliver an even stronger pest control experience for homeowners and businesses across Southwest Florida.”

The acquisition reflects Turner Pest Control’s continued growth strategy while strengthening service offerings for Florida homeowners and businesses. Customers of Pest Eliminators, Inc. will now benefit from expanded services, advanced treatment technologies and enhanced customer support backed by Turner’s statewide network.

“For more than 20 years, our family has been proud to serve communities across Southwest Florida with trusted, dependable pest control solutions,” said Pest Eliminators, Inc. Owners Conrad Burns Sr. and Conrad Burns II. “Joining forces with Turner Pest Control allows us to ensure that legacy continues, while giving our customers access to new resources, innovative treatments and the same reliable service they’ve come to expect. We are proud to begin this next chapter with Turner Pest Control and confident our customers are in excellent hands.”

As part of the integration, Pest Eliminators, Inc. operations and branding will transition to Turner Pest Control. Customers will be guided through the process with direct communications, social media updates and local outreach, ensuring continuity of service and trust.

For more information and to learn more about Turner Pest Control, visit www.turnerpest.com.

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ABOUT TURNER PEST CONTROL:

Founded in 1971, Turner Pest Control is one of Florida’s fastest-growing pest management companies, offering comprehensive residential and commercial pest control services including termite prevention, lawn and outdoor solutions and mosquito control. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Turner is committed to providing environmentally responsible and technologically advanced pest control solutions with a focus on customer satisfaction and team development. Turner is part of the Anticimex family of companies, an international leader in modern pest control.

WJCT Public Media Announces Retirement of David McGowan in 2026

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Media Contact:

Neily Jones, Promotion & Marketing Associate

904.318.2633 • nbraren@wjct.org

WJCT Public Media Announces Retirement of David McGowan in 2026

National search planned to identify organization’s next President and CEO

Oct. 14, 2025 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media, the independent, community-owned public media organization serving Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, today announced that David McGowan will retire as President and CEO on March 31, 2026.

McGowan has led WJCT Public Media since January 2018. This announcement follows an extensive period of planning between McGowan and the organization’s Board of Trustees’ leadership, which started in January 2025.

“Serving WJCT Public Media through this period of growth has been a tremendous honor. Everything we’ve been through these last eight years has only strengthened my belief in the power of public media to bring people together,” said McGowan. “WJCT Public Media is such a precious community asset, and I am grateful to have helped guide it during such an interesting time in our industry and in our region. I look forward to working with our Board during this transition.”

Under McGowan’s leadership, WJCT became one of the most dynamic local news organizations in the country — a true multi-platform organization recognized regionally and nationally for its innovative programming in local news, music, education and community engagement. Highlights of his tenure include the launch and growth of Jacksonville Today, a digital-first news platform funded through its Local Journalism Initiative that has earned accolades from the LION Awards and Local Media Association’s Digital Innovation Awards; the creation of the Jacksonville Music Experience; new in-person experiences through the expansion of the WJCT Soundstage and the popular Film at WJCT Studios series; and numerous new broadcast and podcast programs, such as “What’s Health Got to Do With It?,” “Bygone Jax” and “Untold Stories.”

WJCT also grew stronger in other ways during McGowan’s tenure. Revenue and the number of individual contributors have nearly doubled since 2018, and audiences for its local news on WJCT News 89.9 and through Jacksonville Today stand at or near all-time highs. Use of Jax PBS’ streaming services are growing strongly, and live event attendance is at a peak following the pandemic shutdowns.

The organization’s Board of Trustees has formed a search committee, led by Chair Bill Hendrich, Immediate Past Chair Farley Kern and Chair-Elect Anne Madsen, to oversee the process of identifying WJCT Public Media’s next President and CEO. DRiWaterstone, an executive search, leadership and advisory firm, has been engaged to conduct a national search.

“David is a world-class executive; we have been fortunate to have him as our President and CEO. He is a remarkable leader, whose vision and strategic guidance inspired us all to reimagine how this organization can serve the community. We are grateful for his many years of exemplary service to our mission, and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement,” said Bill Hendrich, Chair of WJCT Public Media’s Board of Trustees.

“From creating innovative new programs to further enrich our community, to strengthening our financial position through highly effective fiscal and operational management, David has positioned WJCT to move soundly forward,” said Anne K. Madsen, Treasurer and Chair-Elect of WJCT Public Media’s Board of Trustees. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation for his exceptional service to WJCT and our community.”

Prior to his arrival at WJCT Public Media, McGowan successfully led a variety of media and digital businesses. He served in senior executive roles for several cable and telecommunication companies in Europe, including most recently as CEO of Invitel, a major media and telecommunications company based in Hungary. Earlier in his career, he held senior positions at top news organizations including Senior Vice President of news and public affairs programming and production for WETA in Washington, D.C., and Head of Media Development for Time Magazine. Programs under his supervision won major American awards in broadcasting, including Emmys, Peabody Awards and the Du-Pont-Columbia Journalism Award. He has served on the boards of several companies and nonprofits, and is a graduate of Yale University.

“Thanks to David’s vision and leadership, WJCT Public Media has evolved to become a strong, vibrant source of information, education and cultural programming — an invaluable resource to Northeast Florida,” said Farley Kern, Immediate Past Chair of WJCT’s Board of Trustees. “On behalf of our current and past Trustees, I thank David for successfully steering the institution through a time of tremendous growth in the region and unprecedented change in the media industry. We look forward to welcoming a new leader next year to continue the positive momentum he created.”

To learn more about WJCT Public Media, visit wjct.org.

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About WJCT Public Media:

WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital’s ECMO awarded Silver Level Center on the Path to Excellence

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Hospital is one of 400 ECMO Centers in the United States

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 14, 2025) - - HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is proud to share that it has earned the Silver Level Center on the Path to Excellence in Life Support Award from the international organization ELSO (Extracorporeal Life Support Organization), in recognition of its work with ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation). ECMO is a life support technique that temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs, providing oxygen to the blood and removing carbon dioxide. With more than 6,000 hospitals in the United States, there are only about 400 ECMO centers nationwide. The Excellence in Life Support Award recognizes centers like HCA Florida Memorial Hospital that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to evidence-based processes and quality measures, staff training and continuing education, patient satisfaction and ongoing clinical care.

"Our ECMO program started five years ago during the pandemic - during a national shortage of ECMO machines - we acquired one just at the right time," said Dale Mueller, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon and Chief of Medical Staff at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital. "ECMO is one of the most advanced forms of life support available to patients experiencing acute failure of the cardio-respiratory system. ECMO allows time for the patient’s lungs or heart to heal over a period of time by using a heart-lung machine to oxygenate the blood outside the body."

"We are honored to be the recipient of such a prestigious award regarding the critical care services and life support equipment and training provided to our patients at our hospital,” said Donna Wagner, Vice President of Cardiovascular, Critical Care and Neurosciences at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital. “The ECMO Center accomplishments reflect the dedication to advancing health care that we continuously strive to achieve at Memorial Hospital.”

ELSO is an international nonprofit consortium of health care institutions, researchers, and industry partners who support those who deliver ECMO. ELSO is dedicated to developing and evaluating novel therapies to support failing organ systems.

Pictured from left: HCA Florida Memorial Hospital’s Donna Wagner, VP of Cardiovascular, Critical Care and Neurosciences with Trina Younger, MBA, BS, RRT, CES-A, CES-P, ECMO Coordinator, after receiving the award in Washington, DC on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

Pictured above: Dr. Dale Mueller, Cardiothoracic Surgeon at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

About HCA Florida Memorial Hospital – HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is part of Florida’s largest healthcare system, HCA Florida Healthcare, comprising of 49 hospitals, 84,000 employees and 11,000 physicians operating from more than 650 care sites, over 50 urgent care centers, and more than 350 physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville is a full service, acute care, Level II Trauma hospital, Comprehensive Stroke Center DNV certified, with 454 inpatient beds, a dedicated Women’s Center, and four freestanding emergency rooms (on Atlantic Blvd. at Kernan Blvd. and on San Jose Blvd. at I-295 in Mandarin in Jacksonville, at Doctors Village Drive in Julington Creek in St. Johns County, and in Yulee at the northeast corner of I-95 and SR 200 in Nassau County). Fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is ranked as one of the top hospitals in the country for heart, lung and surgical care. It was named America’s 250 Best Hospitals 2025 by Healthgrades, putting it the top 5% nationwide for overall clinical performance, and named America’s 100 Best Orthopedic Surgery Hospitals 2025 also by Healthgrades. For more information, visit: HCAFloridahealthcare.com.

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Timucuan Parks Foundation and PossAbilities Plus Partner for Outdoor Exploration

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

Timucuan Parks Foundation and PossAbilities Plus Partner for Outdoor Exploration

The two nonprofits are working together to provide educational and recreational activities for those with special needs

Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 14, 2025 – Timucuan Parks Foundation has a new partnership with another local nonprofit, PossAbilities Plus. The two have teamed up to bring young adults with special needs to local wilderness parks and preserves as part of TPF’s Healthy Living program. PossAbilities Plus is a nonprofit based in Atlantic Beach that was created by its Executive Director, Susan Peters, to enhance the lives of those with special needs through social opportunities, job training, and employment.

“We are very excited to embark on this new partnership and look forward to bringing these young adults into our wilderness parks and preserves to show them the benefits of spending time in nature,” said Felicia Boyd, TPF program and outreach director. “Our work with groups like PossAbilities Plus is so rewarding. We designed our Healthy Living programs to promote the therapeutic effects of our parks and preserves and to create opportunities for educational and recreational activities for underserved groups.”

The first outing with PossAbilities Plus was an evening at Castaway Island Preserve, one of JaxParks' designated “Healthy Parks.” Organizers spent the first half of the program with the young adults at the education building, where they participated in yoga led by TPF volunteer Julie Anderson. Following the yoga, the group went for a nature walk along the Castaway Preserve boardwalk that took them to the observation platform, where they overlooked the Intracoastal Waterway and learned about the ecosystems surrounding the preserve.

TPF Executive Director Fred Richards said, “It was an evening filled with laughter, curiosity and enjoyment. We fully enjoyed having you there and look forward to future activities together.”

The next event brought the PossAbilities group to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park for a fun, engaging evening that included a nature hike and a kayaking adventure. There were 13 special needs young adults, five parents and chaperones from PossAbilities Plus, and volunteers from TPF’s Young Professional Group, along with TPF staff, who participated in the event. Led by Stephen Klem, Hanna Park’s lead naturalist, and Dennis Thompson, owner of Adventure Kayak Florida, the group enjoyed a paddle on the lake and then a sunset nature hike through Hanna Park’s wilderness trails.

Both events were made possible by grants from HEAL Northeast Florida, RS&H, and Boeing. TPF has plans to host additional events throughout the area’s wilderness parks and preserves.

PossAbilities Plus partners with organizations, like TPF, to bring together young adults and community members for recreational activities like this in a safe, fun environment. The nonprofit also provides on-the-job training, parent resources and workshops. Through its Cup of Dreams Café, its Unique Boutique and its Secret Garden, these young adults are able to build skills including self-advocacy, resume writing and occupational competencies. For more information on PossAbilities Plus, visit https://possabilitiesplus.com/.

About Timucuan Parks Foundation

Timucuan Parks Foundation is a nonprofit organization that preserves, promotes and enhances Jacksonville’s natural areas through community engagement, education and enjoyment. The foundation originated in 1999 with the Preservation Project Jacksonville, Inc. to identify and assist in acquiring the most vulnerable and environmentally sensitive lands in Duval County. The acquisition of lands created the largest urban park system in the United States. TPF works with its park partners, including the National Park Service, Florida State Parks and the City of Jacksonville, and other community partners to promote environmental stewardship, the health benefits of the parks and preserves, and an appreciation for Jacksonville’s special outdoor spaces. For more information, visit timucuanparks.org or follow @timucuanparks.

Erin Broderick, MBA, Promoted to Vice President of Finance at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

She will lead the finance team and support the stewardship of $750M in assets

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Oct. 8, 2025 — Seasoned financial leader Erin Broderick, MBA, has been promoted to Vice President of Finance at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, effective October 1, 2025.

In this expanded role, Erin will lead the Foundation’s finance team in support of the Foundation’s commitment to effective stewardship of more than $750 million in philanthropic assets across 750+ donor funds, serving a six-county Northeast Florida region. Erin is responsible for accounting and compliance, reporting, cash management, and invested assets. She will serve as a member of the executive team, reporting to Grace Sacerdote, Executive Vice President/CFO, with oversight and support of the Board of Trustees and its committees.

“Erin is a steadfast financial leader who has excelled in her roles through her technical expertise, business acumen and leadership. She is deeply committed to the Foundation and the community we serve,” said Grace Sacerdote. “President Isaiah Oliver and I welcome her invaluable talent and experience to our executive team.”

Erin joined The Community Foundation in 2015, bringing nearly 12 years of finance and investment experience at Wells Fargo. Over the past 10 years, she played key roles in management of the Foundation’s complex finances as Senior Manager and Senior Director, Finance. Erin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance & Economics from Jacksonville University and a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of North Florida. She lives in the Deerwood area of Jacksonville with her husband, Tim Broderick, and their three children.

About The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida (www.jaxcf.org), Florida’s oldest and one of its largest community foundations, works to stimulate philanthropy to build a better community. The Foundation helps donors invest their philanthropic gifts wisely, helps nonprofits serve the region effectively, and helps people come together to make the community a better place. Now in its 61st year, the Foundation manages more than $750 million in assets as of 10/1/2025 and has made more than $850 million in grants since inception.

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Contact: Stephanie Garry Garfunkel

VP, Strategic Communications

904-224-7208| sgarfunkel@jaxcf.org

Support the Monique Burr Foundation for Children at the Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MONIQUE BURR FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

MBF CONTACT: Tanya Ramos-Puig (904) 642-0210 or Tanya@mbfpreventioneducation.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Support the Monique Burr Foundation for Children at the Dream

Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament

Annual fundraising event is Dec. 7-8 at The Palencia Club

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 9, 2025) – The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF) proudly announces the 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament, presented by AT&T, Jax Utilities Management, Lennar, and MJC Land Development.

The tournament is Monday, Dec. 8, at The Palencia Club in St. Augustine. The tournament’s Pairings Party is Sunday, Dec. 7.

Sponsorship opportunities are available to support the development and delivery of MBF Prevention Education Programs, which are designed to empower youth, equipping them with strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to various challenges such as bullying, online dangers, child abuse, and exploitation/trafficking.

“Our annual pro-am tournament is not just about playing on the course with pro golfers — it’s a chance to rally support and much-needed funds that fuel our work to protect children,” said Tanya Ramos-Puig, MBF Chief Executive Officer. “We are grateful for this opportunity to drive this life-saving work, making a lasting impact across the globe.”

Funds raised from the tournament benefit MBF Prevention Education Programs and MBF’s efforts to reach more youth. Thanks to partners, supporters, and advocates, this past year, MBF reached 16 million children, expanded its reach in Puerto Rico, and launched its inaugural Advisory Council — a group of subject-matter and lived experts who bring their collective experience and wisdom to inform our prevention education programming from pre-K through 12th grade.

Last year, the tournament raised over $585,000 in support of child abuse and bullying prevention education and resources. Sponsorship opportunities, ranging from $2,000 to $40,000, are available. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://championsforchildsafety.com/sponsorships/.

Other sponsors include Ahead, AndersonOrd Apparel, Barraco and Associates, Blue Stream Fiber, Callaway Golf, Carlton Construction, Champion Brands, Clockwork Marketing, Club Car, Coastal Engineering Associates, Inc, Cotton and Company, Donna Feldman and Mo Krausman, Doumar Insurance & Financial Services, ETM (England-Thims & Miller), EW Consultants, Fiorentino Group, Firethorn, FirstService Residential, FMSBonds, GreenPointe Holdings, Hampton Golf, Jacobsen Textron, James Hardie Building Products, Jax Chamber, Kearney Companies, KPMG, Lucido and Associates, Metro Development Group, Morgan Stanley | The Lighthouse Wealth Management Group, The Palencia Club, Pepsi Co, Rogers Towers PA, Southern Glazers, State Farm | Denny Doyle, Superior Construction, Sysco Foods, Taylor Morrison, Tito's Vodka, and Wrathell, Hunt & Associates.

To join this list, visit ChampionsForChildSafety.com.

Artwork

The Monique Burr Foundation for Children has sponsorship opportunities available for the 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament.

About the Monique Burr Foundation for Children

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ROARS and More Event at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Michelle Cardinal, Public Relations

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Cell: 904.477.4103

E-Mail: mcardinal@communityhospice.com

ROARS and More Event at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens Benefiting Community PedsCare®

October 9, 2025 – Jacksonville, Fla. — The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care is thrilled to announce the return of ROARS and More, presented by THE PLAYERS. This gala of a different sort will take place on November 16, 2025, at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. This signature event promises an enchanting evening of family-friendly fun while raising essential funds for Community PedsCare®, a program dedicated to providing compassionate care for children and their families during challenging times. ROARS and More offers a unique experience that's sure to delight guests of all ages.

Every ticket includes food and drinks, ensuring an all-inclusive experience for attendees. Guests will be immersed in a spectacular experience featuring over 1,000 stunning lantern displays showcasing enchanting animals and vibrant plants throughout the zoo. Each loop will surprise children with delightful toys, adding extra joy to their night. The "ROARS and More" showcase will also feature family-friendly entertainment and thrilling performances that promise to captivate audiences.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in gourmet bites from Jacksonville's top restaurants at the Flamingo Food Court, while adults can enjoy refreshing beverages at the "ROARS AND POURS" bars

Funds raised during ROARS and More will empower Community PedsCare® to expand its services, building a legacy of support for nearly 3,000 families to date through specialized care and essential resources.

"The success of our first ROARS and More event showed us just how powerful our community can be when we come together for a cause," said Annie Tuttle, Executive Director. "We look forward to welcoming families back to the Zoo this fall as we continue to support the incredible children and families in our Community PedsCare program."

Tickets for ROARS and More are now available at roarsandmore.thefoundationcares.org. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening supporting a cause that touches the lives of so many.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,600 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com.

About the Foundation

The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care is dedicated to advancing philanthropy to enable Community Hospice & Palliative Care to fulfill its mission of being the compassionate guide for end-of-life care in the communities we serve. Funds raised by the Foundation through memorial giving, planned and major gifts, and events support unfunded patient care services and community benefit programs for those facing advanced illness and grief. To learn more, visit TheFoundationCares.org.

City Rescue Mission’s “Conversations on a Bench” Expands into a National Movement of Hope and Humanity

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — Conversations on a Bench is more than a storytelling initiative—it’s becoming a national movement to rehumanize those too often unseen. Each bench becomes a stage for real stories of resilience, pain, and hope. Every conversation shifts public perception, sparks collaboration, and restores dignity. This growing initiative, led by City Rescue Mission (CRM) in partnership with Citygate Network, now unites over 70 life-transformation missions and community partners nationwide—all working together to rewrite the narrative around homelessness, one conversation at a time. Following the initial announcement, CRM CEO Paul Stasi has personally committed to sitting on a bench for 24 straight hours—from 3 p.m. on October 9 to 3 p.m. on October 10—while livestreaming authentic, unfiltered conversations on YouTube. The bench, located at 234 West State Street, will serve as a platform for honest, heart-level dialogue about homelessness, addiction, and mental health. “Here in Jacksonville, it’s time we really talk about issues of homelessness, addiction, and mental health,” said Stasi. “This national 24-hour event, led by Citygate Network, is an opportunity to put these issues front and center. I invite anyone—community leaders, Mission guests, or the general public—to come and talk with me. Let’s ask the tough questions, share the real stories, and start finding real solutions together.” Participants can stop by the bench in person or submit questions live via YouTube (@CRMJAX1946). The event will also be shared across CRM’s Facebook (@City Rescue Mission) and Instagram (@Cityrescuemissionjax) pages, allowing the community to join the conversation from anywhere. A Call to Community and Compassion Through Conversations on a Bench, CRM aims to spark authentic dialogue that leads to collective responsibility and renewed compassion for those experiencing homelessness. Stasi emphasized that every story shared helps remind the community that homelessness is not a label—it’s a story still being written. “Solving the issues of homelessness, addiction, and mental health can feel overwhelming,” Stasi added. “But when we sit down, listen, and learn from one another, we discover that hope is closer than we think. Together, we can break down barriers and spark transformation—because real change begins with real conversation.”

About City Rescue Mission

Founded in 1946, City Rescue Mission is a Christ-centered ministry providing homeless men, women, and families with shelter, meals, clothing, spiritual guidance, and case management in a safe and caring environment. The Mission’s programs focus on transforming lives through the healing power of the Holy Spirit, offering pathways to stability, dignity, and independence.

About Citygate Network

As North America’s largest association of independent, faith-based ministries, Citygate Network represents a unified movement of rescue missions, addiction recovery centers, prison outreach programs, and life-transformation initiatives working to address homelessness and its root causes. The network equips ministry leaders and frontline teams with community, resources, advocacy, and best practices—empowering them to respond with excellence and compassion. By connecting shelters, recovery programs, and outreach efforts, the organization fosters shared strategies that guide individuals from crisis to stability and lasting flourishing. To join the livestream or learn more, visit: YouTube: @CRMJAX1946 Facebook: City Rescue Mission Instagram: cityrescuemissionjax

The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida Announces 7th Annual “Nonprofit Works Conference: Charting the Course, Bold Leadership for a New Era”

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Conference Focused on Strategic Support for Nonprofits Facing Funding Challenges

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — September 30, 2025 — The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida is proud to announce its highly anticipated 7th annual conference, “Nonprofit Works 2025: Charting the Course, Bold Leadership for a New Era,” taking place Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Florida Blue Conference Center (4800 Deerwood Campus Pkwy).

“As demand rises and resources tighten, the nonprofit sector must find innovative ways to lead, collaborate and adapt in these challenging times,” said Dawn Lockhart, Chief Executive Officer of the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida. “This conference will provide members of the nonprofit community, business and civic leaders, and citizens alike the practical tools and inspiration to transform challenge into opportunity.”

This year’s theme, “Charting the Course: Bold Leadership for a New Era,” reflects the urgent realities facing nonprofits today. Rising demand for services, combined with shrinking funding streams and heightened competition for philanthropic dollars, have created unprecedented challenges. The conference is designed to give nonprofit leaders practical tools, fresh strategies and renewed inspiration to help their organizations not only weather this moment, but emerge stronger and more impactful.

Conference highlights include:

Opening Keynote: President & CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits Diane Yentel, will anchor the day with insights on advocacy and sector-wide collaboration.
Keynote Panel: Featuring Yentel joined by President and CEO of the Florida Nonprofit Alliance Sabeen Perwaiz and Dawn Lockhart to discuss how nonprofits can advocate effectively across federal, state and local levels.
Luncheon Keynote: Partner and Head of Growth at LaPiana Consulting Lara Jakubowski will explore organizational resilience and how nonprofits can rethink structures and partnerships to adapt to new economic realities.
Breakout Sessions:
- Advocacy & Communications—strategies for amplifying nonprofit voices at a time of constrained resources.
- Beyond Boundaries: Creating Vibrant Teams—building resilient staff culture while facing workforce and funding pressures.
- Data & Innovation—leveraging the relaunch of the Catalyst Northeast Florida dashboard to strengthen grant applications, tell compelling impact stories and align efforts.
- Strategy & Sustainability—innovative models like shared services and partnerships to stretch limited resources further.

The “Nonprofit Works: Charting the Course, Bold Leadership for a New Era” conference is a rare opportunity for affordable, high-impact professional development tailored to the realities nonprofits are experiencing today. Whether grappling with tighter budgets, searching for sustainable funding models or seeking ways to better demonstrate impact, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their organizations and amplify their missions.

“Funding challenges are real and growing, but so too is the power of collective advocacy,” said Diane Yentel, President & CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits. “At this conference, I look forward to equipping leaders and those committed to supporting nonprofits with strategies to elevate their voices, secure resources and drive meaningful change for the communities they serve.”

For more information on pricing, programming and registration, visit nonprofitctr.org.

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About the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida

The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida is a vital support system for our nonprofits. It offers services, programs, and information resources for more than 400 members while advocating for the Northeast Florida nonprofit sector locally and at the state level. It provides local government, civic and business leaders, and the media insights and information to promote smart decision-making and public support for local nonprofits. Visit nonprofitctr.org to learn more.

BORED TEACHERS “IS IT FRIDAY YET?!” COMEDY TOUR JANUARY 16, 2026 AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (September 30, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre is proud to announce the Bored Teachers “Is It Friday Yet?!” Comedy Tour on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, October 3, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

They’ve graded the papers, survived the staff meetings, and lost their last ounce of patience…and now they’re taking it out on stage!

The funniest teacher-comedians on the planet are back with brand-new material, bigger laughs, and a fresh round of classroom-inspired chaos on the Bored Teachers “Is It Friday Yet?!” Comedy Tour.

For nearly a decade, Bored Teachers has been the #1 voice of teacher humor—racking up over 1 billion views, amassing 10 million+ followers, and hosting the #1 teacher-comedy podcast on the planet.

Since launching the tour in 2022, the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour has sold out theaters in nearly every U.S. state and across 7 provinces in Canada, expanded internationally to the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand, and performed in front of more than 200K teachers worldwide. With +1 billion video views, +10 million followers, and the #1 teacher-comedy podcast, Bored Teachers has become the go-to brand for educators everywhere seeking laughter, community, and a little comic relief.

Their brand new “Is It Friday Yet?!” Tour starting January 2026 is more than a comedy show—it’s the ultimate night of laughter and solidarity for anyone who’s ever worked in education, taught a lesson, or just survived parent-teacher conferences.

Get ready to laugh until you cry as the funniest teacher-comedians in the world share their side-splitting stories, savage truths, and hilarious classroom confessions. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or just someone who’s been in school, this show will have you nodding, clapping, and hollering, “That’s so true!”

Tickets go on sale Friday, October 3, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About Bored Teachers

Founded by former teachers James and Marilou Tarantino, Bored Teachers started as a grassroots social community built on the hilarious truths of life in education. Almost a decade later, it has evolved into the world’s leading teacher-entertainment company—producing viral sketches, stand-up tours, podcasts, articles, and content that spotlight the struggles, joys, and absurdities of the profession. Today, Bored Teachers is not just a media company—it’s a global movement that gives teachers a voice, a laugh, and a place to belong. To learn more, visit https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour.

About the Florida Theatre

The Jacksonville Horror Film Festival Announces Its Inaugural Year of Frights, Films, and First Blood

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL – The shadows are stirring, and Jacksonville is about to bleed cinema. The Jacksonville Horror Film Festival makes its debut on March 13–14, 2026, bringing a wicked celebration of horror to the heart of the city. This is a weekend built for brave souls and genre fanatics. Independent filmmakers from around the world will descend on Jacksonville, unleashing twisted, blood-splattered thrills, and enough scares to leave even the most seasoned horror fans clinging to their seatmates. Our inaugural theme, First Blood, sets the tone: fresh voices, daring debuts, and enough blood to make Freddy and Jason blush. Festival-goers can expect two full days of screenings, panels, celebrity judges, and an awards ceremony that isn’t afraid to get a little messy. Categories range from Best of the Fest to Scream Queen, with a few delightfully unhinged surprises in store. Vendors, local distillers, and horror-themed partners will transform the venue into a living, breathing monster of a party. Festival Directors DJ Remark and Samantha Spaniak promise an experience that drips with atmosphere. “We want people to step into this festival and feel like they’ve crossed into another world.

This is a celebration of horror film and the fans that make it truly shocking.,” said Remark. Spaniak added, “Jacksonville has the talent, the energy, and the audience to become a horror destination. This festival is our way of propping up the culture of Jacksonville and turning it spooky.” The Hick’s Auditorium at the Downtown Public Library will host the carnage, while Jacksonville itself becomes the stage for a community-wide celebration of horror. The festival is expected to draw audiences, filmmakers, and vendors from across the country, boosting local tourism, energizing downtown businesses, and putting the city on the map for genre lovers worldwide. Submissions are now open on FilmFreeway.

Tickets are available on Ticketbud, vendor opportunities, and sponsorship packages are available on the festival website. Sponsors who come on board will help bring celebrity guests, highlight independent voices, and establish Jacksonville as a hub for horror and film culture. We Have Seven Bridges…To Hell! 1 Jacksonville Horror Film Festival | Press Release Stay tuned for announcements of celebrity guests, special events, and sinister surprises in the months ahead. Consider this your first warning: once you enter, you may never want to leave. Media Contact: Jacksonville Horror Film Festival Jaxhorrorfest@gmail.com www.jaxhorrorfilmfest.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jaxhorrorfilmfest/ IG - @Jaxhorrorfest Tickets - https://jaxhorrorfilmfest.ticketbud.com/jacksonvillehorrorfilmfestival

About the Jacksonville Horror Film Festival

The Jacksonville Horror Film Festival was founded in 2025 by DJ Remark and Samantha Spaniak. The festival’s mission is to showcase independent horror cinema, celebrate the genre’s diverse voices, and position Jacksonville as a rising hub for film and entertainment. The inaugural event will take place March 13–14, 2026, at the Hick’s Auditorium, Downtown Public Library.

Here Tomorrow Partners with Jacksonville Jaguars to Raise Awareness About Suicide Prevention

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

September was National Suicide Prevention Month and October is National Depression Awareness and Mental Health Screening Month

WHAT:

September was National Suicide Prevention Month, an initiative recognized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) as a time to build community and raise awareness around one of today’s most critical mental health issues. October is National Depression Awareness and Mental Health Screening Month, and the first week is National Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 5-11). This time is an opportunity to build connections and inspire compassionate action to provide those in need of support with resources to be able to share their stories without stigma, identify warning signs and ask for help.

Here Tomorrow, a local nonprofit transforming lives by building a community of free mental health support, recently partnered with the Jacksonville Jaguars to help raise awareness about suicide prevention. In September, the two organizations collaborated to place signage with QR codes connecting those in need of support with the Here Tomorrow community in all 155 bathrooms located in EverBank Stadium, Daily’s Place and Miller Electric Center.

Founded by Joe Kenney in honor of his son Gary, who died by suicide in 2019, Here Tomorrow is an organization dedicated to ensuring all people who are at risk for suicide can access support services with no cost and no wait— free of barriers— to live full and meaningful lives. The organization connects those in need with certified suicide prevention specialists with lived experience, normalizing mental health conversations. Appointments are not required allowing for immediate access to support both in-person at their location in Neptune Beach, or via telephone. Through one-on-one care as well as weekly support groups, Here Tomorrow is sustained entirely through philanthropy and fueled by compassion providing a community of care for those in need and their families.

For more details, visit heretomorrow.org.

WHEN:

National Suicide Prevention Month

Time: The month of September

National Depression Awareness Month

Time: The month of October

Mental Illness Awareness Week
Time: October 5-11, 2025

WHO:

Terrie Andrews, President and CEO of Here Tomorrow, is available for interviews.

For visual assets go here:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4b1jaiwhyqv0i2mn8ry9l/ABh5WHxp1hGJNMSIALKBMEM?rlkey=vdo22sq6seehnklkwiav02gcp&st=x6iz9eib&dl=0

For a video go here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_8RT9eBb7E

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About Here Tomorrow

Founded in 2021, Here Tomorrow is a nonprofit organization committed to removing the most critical barriers to mental health support — accessibility and affordability. Their community-based model for suicide prevention support provides free care through connecting those in need with certified suicide prevention specialists with lived experience, normalizing mental health conversations, public education and partnering with individuals and families to connect them to care. Here Tomorrow is 100% funded by donations and grants. To support suicide prevention and to learn more, please visit HereTomorrow.org/give.

WJCT Public Media’s Local News Products Expand Audiences

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville Today now reaches more than 50,000 daily subscribers; WJCT News 89.9 reports record audience growth

Oct. 6, 2025 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media, the independent, community-owned public media organization serving Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, today announced new milestones in its audience development efforts — demonstrating the power of utilizing digital, broadcast, email and social media to reach local residents with reliable, nonpartisan news.

Jacksonville Today, the organization’s digital-first news reporting platform, surpassed 50,000 subscribers for its free weekday morning newsletter. Jacksonville Today launched in the fall of 2021 as an initiative of WJCT Public Media’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI); in addition to the newsletter, the platform also comprises a paywall-free news site (jaxtoday.org), live events and dedicated social media accounts. Monthly visitors to jaxtoday.org now exceed 100,000.

WJCT Public Media attributes this growth to the quality of Jax Today’s local news reporting, as well as a deliberate focus on diversifying its distribution platforms. Jacksonville Today news can now be found on NextDoor, Apple News and BlueSky.

The #AskJaxTDY series is now featured on News4Jax.com, the online platform of WJCT News partner WJXT. Through this community-driven series, readers submit queries for the Jacksonville Today team to investigate — ranging from questions about the status of infrastructure improvement projects around the region, to inquiries on the distinctions between local, state and federal guidelines.

Alongside Jacksonville Today’s growth, the organization’s radio station WJCT News 89.9 achieved record share of audience in the Jacksonville market this summer, with its flagship public affairs program “First Coast Connect” reaching some of its largest audiences ever. Additional programming highlights include locally produced favorites like “What’s Health Got to Do With It?” with Dr. Joe Sirven, which will be carried in Orlando and other Florida markets starting this fall; “Electro Lounge” with David Luckin; and “The Neighborhood” with Al Pete.

WJCT Public Media continues to grow these programs and platforms with the support of individual donors, corporate underwriters and philanthropic foundations. The organization recently surpassed its $2.3 million goal for the LJI “2.3” campaign — reaching $2.7 million, ahead of the anticipated schedule thanks to the generous support of funding partners such as the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, the Terry Family Foundation, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds and Florida Blue, along with numerous individual gifts.

The success of this fundraising effort, coupled with the recent launch of The Editor’s Club donor circle, position the public media organization strongly for ongoing innovation.

“The ways we engage with information continue to evolve. WJCT Public Media continues to see meaningful audience growth because we are intentional about embracing new technologies while still serving our legacy audiences’ needs,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media. “As we look to the future, we are confident that our listeners, subscribers, readers and supporters share our belief that local journalism is worth the investment: of our time, our attention and our financial support.”

To learn more about WJCT Public Media’s news and entertainment offerings, visit wjct.org.

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City Rescue Mission to Host 24-Hour Livestream of CEO’s “Conversations on a Bench” with Community on Homelessness

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, October 9th City Rescue Mission will facilitate a 24-hour conversation between CEO, Paul Stasi and city officials, Mission guests and residents, as well as the community at large. Conversations on a Bench, a national event sponsored by Citygate Network and City Rescue Mission, will take place on a bench at 234 W State St Jacksonville, FL 32202. Stasi invites anyone who has questions or wants to talk to him about the critical issues of homelessness, addiction and mental health to stop by the bench anytime during the 24-hour livestream, which starts at 3pm. Participants can also submit questions through the livestream via YouTube, allowing the community to engage at their convenience, day or night. Initially launched as a 24-hour event for one Rescue Mission in Fresno, CA, “Conversations on a Bench” has now expanded to City Rescue Mission and over 100 other Rescue Missions across the United States and Canada. The goal is a national movement that sparks transformative conversations about homelessness, addiction, food insecurities, and related challenges. “People often shy away from or don’t know where to start when it comes to addressing these critical issues. I challenge the community to come talk to me – let’s have real conversations, especially if you feel frustrated or hopeless about these issues. Talking it out is the first step toward finding solutions. Anything is on the table for discussion… and I welcome you to come and test me on that,” said Stasi. Through authentic, live-streamed interactions, Conversations on a Bench sets out to break down barriers, inspire collective responsibility and elevate the role of Rescue Missions and their life-transforming ministries to beacons of hope and change in Jacksonville and other communities across the country. “Solving the issues of homelessness, addiction, mental health and related challenges can feel overwhelming. So, let’s talk about it. Ask the questions others are asking – especially the tough ones. I hope that my conversations with people can inspire new ways to work together as a community and garner more support for City Rescue Mission’s life- changing programs, said Stasi. It is only when we have a holistic understanding can we effectively address the issues and feel empowered and compelled to help.” To join the livestream and submit questions, visit City Rescue Mission’s YouTube @CRMJAX1946. You will also find links to the livestream on our Facebook page @ City Rescue Mission and our Instagram @Cityrescuemissionjax.

About City Rescue Mission

City Rescue Mission began in 1946 and is a Christ-centered ministry providing homeless men, women and families with shelter, meals, clothing, spiritual guidance and case management in a safe and caring environment. City Rescue Mission is a model for transforming lives of the homeless through the healing power of the Holy Spirit, changing the way the community views homelessness.

About Citygate Network

As North America’s largest association of independent, faith-based ministries, Citygate Network represents a unified movement of rescue missions, addiction recovery centers, prison outreach programs, and lifetransformation initiatives working to address homelessness and its root causes. The network equips ministry leaders and frontline teams with community, resources, advocacy, and best practices—empowering them to respond with excellence and compassion. By connecting shelters, recovery programs, and outreach efforts, the organization fosters shared strategies that guide individuals from crisis to stability and lasting flourishing

THE FLORIDA THEATRE CELEBRATES BEING THE 2025 OUTSTANDING HISTORIC THEATRE IN THE NATION!

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

NEWS RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 3, 2025) - The Florida Theatre celebrated winning the “2025 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award” last night at the LHAT (League of Historic American Theatres) Reception inside the 98-year-old venue. Over 100 people joined in the celebration. Board members, theatre members, staff members, ushers, and LHAT dignitaries were in attendance.

“Stewarding a historic institution and precious community asset like the Florida Theatre is a team effort, and on behalf of the board, the staff, and the volunteers, which is well over 400 people, it was an honor to receive this national recognition,” said Numa Saisselin, President, Florida Theatre.

“My wife Holly and I love live music so much that we named our dogs after two members of the Eagles. I remember going to the Florida Theatre as a kid. It was a special place then, and it still is now. As a music lover and a Jacksonville native, I am proud to support the nonprofit Florida Theatre and bring this award home for our community,” said Don Cameron, Chairperson, Board of Directors, Florida Theatre Performing Arts Center, Inc.

The 2025 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award went to the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville, which is one of the most attended theatres in America, consistently ranked in the Top 5 for theatres up to 2,000 seats by the concert industry magazine Pollstar and the venue management magazine VenuesNow. It is famous as the place where a municipal judge admonished a young Elvis Presley not to swivel his hips in 1956, and where an 11-year-old Derek Trucks first played with the Allman Brothers Band in 1991. The selection committee recognized the Florida Theatre for its commitment to historic preservation as well as its dedication to serving the full community of Jacksonville.

Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1,865-seat theatre first opened in 1927 and was privately owned until 1980, when the Arts Assembly of Greater Jacksonville purchased and renovated the building. The Arts Assembly sold the building to the City of Jacksonville in 1985, and in 1987, a new nonprofit corporation, The Florida Theatre Performing Arts Center, Inc., was founded to manage, program, and preserve the theatre. Almost 40 years later, that public/private partnership continues to thrive, resulting in a yearly economic impact of over $15 million for the city, over $17 million of renovations and restorations since 2020, $3 million more fully funded and scheduled for 2025-2026, and $12 million more planned in the next five years.

“Considering the League represents hundreds of historic theatres, including all of the major Broadway houses, the community of Jacksonville should feel very proud of this recognition,” said Ken Stein, President and CEO of LHAT. “We had a record number of nominations this year,” Stein added.

The Outstanding Historic Theatre Award is given each year by LHAT to a historic theatre that has demonstrated excellence in community impact, quality of programs and services, and quality of physical restoration. “It was apparent to the League that the Florida Theatre has remained true to its architectural history while remaining relevant to its changing audiences,” concluded Stein.

The nominating committee consisted of former LHAT Board Presidents and leaders in the industry. Nominations were accepted from across the nation, representing some of America’s finest performing arts venues and film houses. Past winners include New York’s City Center, The Fox Theatre in Atlanta, The Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor, and Cleveland’s Playhouse Square. The award has been given annually since 2003.

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About the League of Historic American Theatres

Founded in 1976, the League of Historic American Theatres (LHAT) is a non-profit organization with the main purpose of sustaining historic theatres across North America for the benefit of their communities and future generations. The League defines a membership-eligible historic theatre as one that is at least 50 years old and includes at least one of the following attributes: is an architecturally significant structure deemed worthy of preservation, has played an important role in the history of American stage and screen, and/or can be used as a performing arts facility. The League has grown to over 1,600 users representing almost 400 historic theatres and organizations. To learn more, visit www.lhat.org.

About the Florida Theatre

Turner Pest Control Announces Appointment of Kevin Poland to President

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Media Contact:

Alaina Bundy

alaina@wearewingard.com

904.305.2054

Turner Pest Control Announces Appointment of Kevin Poland to President

Veteran pest management leader to steer continued expansion, innovation and excellence

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – October 2, 2025 – Turner Pest Control, an Anticimex company and leading provider of pest management solutions in Florida, today announced the appointment of Kevin Poland as its new President. Poland steps into this role following nearly 15 years of progressive leadership experience in the pest control industry and a proven track record of growth, operational excellence and people-first leadership.

As President, Poland will be responsible for leading Turner Pest Control’s strategic direction, overseeing daily operations and fostering a performance-driven culture rooted in innovation, empathy and service excellence. He will guide the company’s vision across sales, service delivery, customer satisfaction and team development – ensuring continued success across its expanding Florida footprint.

“Joining Turner Pest Control is an incredible opportunity, and I couldn’t be more excited to lead such a talented and driven team,” said Turner Pest Control President Kevin Poland. “What drew me here was not just the company’s strong track record of growth, but also its unwavering commitment to people – both the customers we serve and the team members who make it all happen. I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place, empowering our teams to grow and push the boundaries of what great service and leadership can look like in this industry.”

Prior to joining Turner Pest Control, Poland served as President of American Pest, another Anticimex company also under the Anticimex umbrella, based in Maryland. During his tenure, he led the company through a significant phase of growth that included four strategic bolt-on acquisitions and a company-wide celebration of its 100-year anniversary. Under his leadership, American Pest strengthened its brand legacy, scaled operations and implemented structural improvements across its finance, sales and service teams.

Poland contributed to major initiatives such as integrating 17 mergers and acquisitions to launching new service lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is an active leader in the pest control industry, particularly through his involvement with the National Pest Management Association's Leadership Networking Council. He also served on the boards of both the Maryland State Pest Control Association and the Virginia Pest Management Association.

The appointment of Poland comes at a pivotal time for Turner Pest Control, as the company continues to expand its reach and service offerings across Florida. His arrival aligns with several recent and upcoming acquisitions already underway, as well as the strategic divestment of the company's fumigation division to focus on core service lines. These initiatives ensure Turner remains at the forefront of innovation, service excellence and market leadership in the pest control industry.

“We are pleased to welcome Kevin Poland as the new President of Turner Pest Control,” said Anticimex North America President Steve Nylund. “Kevin brings a rare blend of operational acumen and a proven track record of driving growth through strategic acquisitions and team development. His leadership style perfectly aligns with our vision for Turner’s next phase of expansion and innovation across Florida.”

For more information and to learn more about Turner Pest Control, visit www.turnerpest.com.

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About Turner Pest Control:

Construction underway on Home2 Suites by Hilton at The Fountains at St. Johns

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Only hotel at the intersection of I-95 and CR 210

ST. JOHNS, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2025) – Cerris Builders, a nationally-respected and relationship-driven commercial construction company, along with Ideal Hospitality Investments and Cross Regions Group, proudly announces construction is underway on a new extended-stay hotel along Interstate 95 in St. Johns County.

The four-story, 137-room, cold-form metal framed Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel will be the first hotel to be located within The Fountains at St. Johns, a mixed-use medical and retail development located at the northeast intersection of County Road 210 and I-95.

“We are thrilled to begin construction on this highly anticipated development – the only hotel at the intersection of I-95 and CR 201,” said Cerris Builders Division Manager Isaac Byers. “This Home2 Suites by Hilton reflects our commitment to building projects that strengthen communities, and we’re proud to partner with Ideal Hospitality Investment and Cross Regions Group to deliver lasting value for travelers and residents alike.”

Home2 Suites by Hilton will offer guests hospitality, warmth and innovation with dynamic, comfortable and flexible accommodations. Guests will enjoy family time together at the outdoor pool. Each room will be designed with a flat-screen TV, a microwave, and a mini-fridge. Completion of the hotel is anticipated in Q1 2027.

Home2 Suites will be in Fountains East, which will feature a Town Square with retail and restaurants. The Fountains at St. Johns offers approximately 200,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and medical/office space on 23 acres.

For more information on Cerris Builders, visit www.cerrisbuilders.com.

Renderings:

Home2 Suites by Hilton is under construction along Interstate 95 in St. Johns County.

About Cerris Builders

Cerris Builders is a nationally respected and relationship-driven commercial construction company specializing in preconstruction, design-build, general construction and construction management services. We have offices in Austin, Dallas, Jacksonville, Kansas City and Midland. Started as a family business in 1932, Cerris Builders became the general contracting arm of the organization in 1971 and is 100% employee-owned. We tailor our work to deliver lasting results for our clients in industries including light industrial, multifamily, hospitality and more. Visit www.cerrisbuilders.com for more information.

Cosmic Baseball Tour coming to VyStar Ballpark in 2026

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Fans can enter ticket lottery system to watch baseball played under black lights in Spring of 2026

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – VyStar Ballpark will be illuminated like never before when the Cosmic Baseball Tour visits Jacksonville in the Spring of 2026. The Tri-City Chili Peppers – a collegiate summer wooden bat league team in the Coastal Plain League – take their show under black lights with a glowing ball, glowing bats, glowing bases and glowing uniforms to Jacksonville and VyStar Ballpark as part of their 2026 tour.

Fans can watch Cosmic Baseball at VyStar Ballpark by entering the ticket lottery and selecting ‘Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’ on the dropdown menu. Fans who entered the lottery will be selected at random to purchase their tickets. Those selected will receive a designated time slot to purchase tickets via an email from Cosmic Baseball.

The Chili Peppers have captivated the sports world by playing baseball under the world’s only stadium-grade black lights, allowing reactive baseballs, bats, uniforms and more to glow in the dark. Cosmic Baseball blends traditional baseball with music and mind-bending special effects to create a one-of-a-kind fan experience.

Notable alumni of the Chili Peppers include current and former Major League Baseball players Justin Verlander, Ryan Zimmerman, Mark Reynolds, Kevin Youkilis, Alec Bohm, Nicky Lopez and Jake Cave, as well as Super Bowl champion quarterback Russell Wilson.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are the Triple-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins and compete in the International League. The team calls VyStar Ballpark home for baseball but also a wide variety of additional community focused events with a goal of providing Affordable, Family, FUN to Northeast Florida. Winners of many marketing and sales awards and recognition since the team was rebranded prior to the 2017 season, the Jumbo Shrimp continually lead the state of Florida in attendance across all minor league professional sports organizations.

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LifeSouth Urges Blood Donations During 2025 Hurricane Season

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

With storms on the horizon, Northeast Florida residents are called to give blood now to ensure hospitals stay prepared

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — September 25, 2025 — LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is urging the public to donate blood now to help safeguard the blood supply before disaster strikes during the 2025 Hurricane Season.

Natural disasters can disrupt donation efforts and increase the need for lifesaving blood. Every day, blood donors play a vital role in ensuring that hospitals are equipped to treat trauma victims, cancer patients and those with chronic illnesses. There is no substitute for human blood – it must come from generous, healthy donors. Right now, type O blood types are critically needed. Those who choose to donate now help ensure blood is on the shelves when it's needed most.

During the month of September, all blood donors will receive a LifeSouth t-shirt. Platelet and double red cell donors will also receive a $40 e-gift card.

Additionally, LifeSouth supplies blood to 70% of Northeast Florida hospital beds through its service to many regional hospitals, including Baptist Medical Center Beaches, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Baptist Medical Center South, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health North and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Blood donated with LifeSouth directly helps patients at these hospitals.

For additional information about donation or to find a blood drive near you, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707, visit www.lifesouth.org or download the LifeSouth app. Appointments can also be made online. Donor centers across Northeast Florida are located at the below addresses, and information on mobile blood drives happening across the region can be found at www.lifesouth.org.

Jacksonville Headquarters (7840 Baymeadows Way)
Fleming Island (1605 County Rd. 220, Suite 160)
Julington Creek (445 S.R. 13 N., Suite 25)
St. Augustine (292 State Route 312)
Palatka (6003 Crill Ave)

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About LifeSouth Community Blood Centers:

LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. The LifeSouth team is dedicated to making sure the blood is there when a patient is in need. To learn more, visit LifeSouth.org or donatingblood.org.

Parasol Notary Launches in Jacksonville, Bringing Reliable Mobile & Online Notary Services to the Community

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL — September 2025— Parasol Notary, a new professional notary and loan signing agency, is proud to announce its official launch in Jacksonville, Florida. Founded by experienced loan closer Megan Bieniek, Parasol Notary provides a full range of services designed to make notarization easy, secure, and accessible for individuals and businesses alike.

With years of experience in loan closings and financial services, Megan brings expertise, precision, and client-focused care to every signing. After building her career in Denver, CO, she has relocated to Jacksonville and is excited to serve the growing needs of the First Coast community.

Services Offered:

· Mobile Notary Services – Convenient notarizations at your home, office, or preferred location.

· Loan Signing Services – Professional, seamless execution of mortgage and loan documents.

· Legal Document Notarization – Accurate, compliant notarization to give clients peace of mind.

· Remote/Online Notary Options – Secure, flexible services available virtually, anywhere in Florida.

“Parasol Notary was built on the idea of making life easier for clients,” said Bieniek. “Whether you’re finalizing a home purchase, signing a loan, or handling important legal paperwork, my goal is to deliver a smooth, stress-free experience every time.”

Parasol Notary is committed to professionalism, accuracy, and community service. By offering both mobile and online notarization options, the agency ensures convenience without sacrificing quality.

About Parasol Notary

Parasol Notary is a Jacksonville-based mobile and online notary agency specializing in loan closings, legal document notarization, and client-focused service. With flexible scheduling and a commitment to reliability, Parasol Notary is the trusted choice for individuals, families, and businesses across Northeast Florida.

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For media inquiries, appointments, or partnership opportunities, please contact: 720.382.0907 | mbieniek@parasolgp.com | www.parasolnotary.com

acksonville Aviation Authority Board of Directors Approves Two Resolutions Opposing City Council Budget Changes and Proposed J-Bill

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Board Also Selects New Slate of Officers for Incoming Fiscal Year

[Jacksonville, FL – September 29, 2025] – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) Board of Directors voted unanimously today approving two resolutions: One that opposes amendments proposed by the Jacksonville City Council to change the organization’s 2026 budget and another in opposition to Resolution 2025-695, which was submitted to the Jacksonville City Council without consent from the JAA and seeks changes to the Authority’s charter through the State Legislature.

The first resolution in opposition to City Council’s amendments to the JAA’s 2026 budget stems from a legal opinion the Authority received from the law firm of Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC. The opinion, which was partially written by a retired Florida Supreme Court Justice, encouraged the JAA Board to pass a resolution rejecting City Council’s changes.

The firm found that adopting City Council’s amendments would “result in multiple forms of revenue diversion, placing both the City of Jacksonville and JAA in danger of potentially severe federal penalties.” It goes on to state that “knowingly violating federal law would be as ill-advised as it sounds and, standing alone, fully justifies rejecting the amendment. Adopting City Council’s Amendments would also repeal JAA’s extant agreement with Million Air and force JAA to breach that contract.”

The second resolution specifically opposes Resolution 2025-695, which was submitted without JAA’s support. This legislation asks the Florida State Legislature to consider and approve Local Bill J-2 which seeks changes to JAA’s charter. If approved at the state level, the proposed legislation would:

Rename the organization to the Jacksonville Aviation and Aerospace Authority
Redundantly assign authority and responsibility that already exists with JAA for the economic development of Cecil Airport
Require at least one of the Mayoral appointees and one of the Governor appointees of the JAA board “be from the aerospace or related industry”

The JAA Board of Directors also voted to confirm a new slate of officers for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. David Hodges will serve as the incoming board chair, Fernando Acosta-Rua will serve as the new vice chair. Sol Brotman and Bill Gulliford will repeat their roles as treasurer and secretary, respectively.

Media Contact

Michael Stewart

VP, External Affairs

Jacksonville Aviation Authority

Ph: (904) 741-2721

Cell: (904) 945-6300

Renowned Artists Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood Team Up for New Installation at MOCA Jacksonville

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Muralists in Action Highlights Process as Part of Project Atrium Series

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, a part of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida, is pleased to announce its upcoming Project Atrium installation Muralists in Action, led by local artists Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood. Conceived as an accompaniment to Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial, the collaborative installation will showcase Jacksonville's vibrant muralist scene. The exhibition will feature a transformation of the museum's Atrium Gallery into a vibrant, colorful mural by the two veterans, alongside a group of emerging artists. The installation is on view September 22, 2025, to February 15, 2026. Visitors are encouraged to witness the progression of the work in real time as it unfolds during the first four weeks of its installation. The artists will be working on it weekly, Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. As part of the museum’s lobby, Project Atrium is accessible to the community at no charge during regular museum hours.

The final mural will be completed ahead of MOCA’s Fall Arts Celebration on October 18, 2025. The community-focused event will celebrate the completion of the new mural, as well as our vibrant local arts community that has contributed to the museum’s inaugural Jax Contemporary. The juried exhibition highlights the exceptional talent of local artists. The entire community is invited to attend for free as the museum celebrates new exhibitions and announces the awards for the triennial juried exhibition. The brunch-style opening will feature live music, light bites, and a cash bar.

Project Atrium: Muralists in Action was made possible through the generous support of Project Atrium Sponsor Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC and Exhibition Underwriter Florida State College at Jacksonville.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Muralists in Action is a new and engaging installation designed to transform the MOCA’s Atrium Gallery into a breathtaking 40-foot-tall mural spanning the Atrium walls. The exhibition is meant to highlight the local mural scene, which has grown significantly over the past two decades in both the range of artists actively creating and the total number of public murals on display.

Harewood and Thurston have both contributed to the development of Jacksonville’s vibrant mural scene and continue to do so as they share their experience and expertise with the next generation. With an eye on the future of local mural creation, the two veteran artists will lead a group of local apprentice muralists in the creation of the final work of art. The collaborative final installation is more than a mural—it’s a living process, unfolding over weeks in full view of museum visitors, and the process is not only on display to the public—it is a main element of the exhibition.

“We have both benefited greatly from the inspiration we received from artists that came before us, and we are honored if we’re able to do this for artists who are coming up with us. We see ourselves as another link in the chain. We live by inspiration, whether from other artists, or by our life experiences and the world around us,” said artists Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Artists Dustin Harewood and Shaun Thurston currently reside in Jacksonville, Florida, having both spent years developing their artistic practices and refining their skills. Between them, Thurston and Harewood bring decades of experience, experimentation, and community engagement to the project. Both have created murals in and out of Jacksonville; with Thurston’s on view in various cities in the United States and Harewood’s spanning countries, including the U.S., Barbados, and Japan. Likewise, for both artists, their relationship to the natural world is at the core of their studio practices, showing up in themes that examine the beauty of natural cycles like destruction and creation, detritus and decay.

Born and raised in New York City, Dustin Harewood became a junior member of the Brooklyn Museum at seven years old. In his teenage years, Harewood lived in Barbados before returning to the United States as an adult. Having earned his bachelor’s degree at North Carolina Central University and his master’s degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Harewood patiently built his artistic skills through diligent practice.

In 2012, Dustin Harewood was approached to support the Springfield neighborhood beautification project, in which he began to create a series of Dying Reef murals inspired by Hokusai’s famous series: 36 Views of Mount Fuji. His first mural was followed by another in the Barbados village where his mother was raised. He created two more in the same Springfield, one in the city of Aomori in North Japan, a three-story mural at the PGA headquarters in Ponte Vedra, one at Beaches Baptist Medical Center, and another four in Barbados. Harewood’s work is rooted in identity, the environment, and, as someone who has spent his life traveling between the places he has called ‘home’, with the ways your location informs your identity.

“When I work, I think a lot about myself and my relationship with the environment,” Harewood states. “More specifically black people’s relationship with nature. What it once was, versus what it is now in a post-colonial context.”

Jacksonville native Shaun Thurston began his artistic journey at a young age and with a deep commitment to mastering a craft often dismissed as play. “The idea of having to spend a lifetime to become great at this form of creation was with me from the beginning,” he says. Thurston attended Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Florida School of the Arts, and Savannah College of Art and Design. He attributes his initial style of street art to his education and local graffiti.

“We got crumbs of graffiti back then in Jacksonville from a writer named One67 who was so prolific that he inspired an entire ‘graff’ crew to emerge from the fabric of local punks, skaters, and hip-hop kids,” Thurston says. “I became part of that crew but was also learning about the entire world of art and art history in school. Those two fields overlapped, and my street art came from it.” Thurston’s 20-year career is defined by his dynamic blend of fine art and public murals. His practice has evolved through constant reinvention, shifting styles and materials to avoid feeling trapped, stifled, or easily recognized. “It’s been my saving grace and self-destruction in one move,” he reflects. Now, with a stronger sense of self, he embraces recognition and consistency.

Both artists have been engaged with MOCA Jacksonville for many years. Both are featured in Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial, which is on display through November 9, 2025. Harewood had led classes and programs at the museum. For Thurston, this will be the second time he has created a mural on the monumental canvas of MOCA’s Atrium.

RELATED PROGRAMS

FALL ARTS CELEBRATION

Saturday, October 18, 2025

12 - 2 p.m. | Free

Meet the Project Atrium: Muralists in Action artists, celebrate the announcement of the Jax Contemporary Arts Triennial Awards, and view Sebastian Vallejo: Where The Wild Zephyrs Sleep with the artist. This brunch-style opening will feature live music, light bites, and a cash bar.

MEDIA PORTAL

To schedule interviews, request additional content, or schedule a photo shoot as the installation progresses, please reach out to Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications for MOCA Jacksonville at amber.sesnick@unf.edu or 904-303-0703.

Press release and images of the artist’s past work are available at the link below for use.

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4a8dx54h736tddx6dfsyu/AIgAP2KXhBNRtGi3XBHaCb4?rlkey=j6dmqswf574zzh12p6mdbrbg4&st=b7pci91j&dl=0

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, as the oldest art museum in the region and the second contemporary art museum to be established in the United States. This celebration year is an opportunity for MOCA to give back to the community that has been its home for a century by presenting groundbreaking exhibitions and programs that will engage the community and elevate Jacksonville as a regional destination for arts and culture.

One hundred years ago, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader.

A century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville. Throughout 2024, MOCA will celebrate its centennial year — looking to the past to recognize the legacy of the visionary leaders and important milestones that have brought us to this point; marking this moment with extraordinary exhibitions and programs that will not only elevate MOCA, but provide a stimulus and create an energized destination for our Downtown to build upon; and imagine the future that we want for our great city, nourishing our community through art and culture for the next 100 years.

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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Film at WJCT Studios Expands Programming for 2025-2026 Season

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

From new independent films to documentaries and classics, program to offer slate of 25+ live screenings

Sept. 29, 2025 — Jacksonville, Fla. — WJCT Public Media, the independent, community-owned public media organization serving Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, today announced the expansion of its Film at WJCT Studios schedule for the 2025-2026 season.

From independent features to rock ‘n’ roll and nature documentaries to the dark streets of film noir, Film at WJCT Studios presents a variety of movies and programs that captivate the imagination, inspire curiosity about the world and deliver unique entertainment at an approachable price point. The series also embraces NT Live screenings, filmed live stage productions from the National Theatre in London. Tickets for a current WJCT member (supporter at $60 or more per year) will be just $5 per film and $10 per NT Live screening. Non-member prices are $10 per film and $15 per NT Live screening. All film events have a cash bar available for popcorn, snacks and beverages, and are screened at WJCT Public Media’s studios, located at 100 Festival Park Avenue in Downtown Jacksonville, Fla.

The 2025-2026 season, presented by VyStar Credit Union, will present more than 25 live screenings of independent films, classic movies, filmed stage productions from the National Theatre in London (NT Live) and more. The current schedule is available at wjct.org/film, with new films added each month. Announced screenings include:

Hocus Pocus, October 29
National Theatre Live: Mrs. Warren’s Profession, November 5
Noirvember: Gilda (November 21), Dark Passage (November 22, 2 p.m.) and Murder, My Sweet (November 22, 7 p.m.)
Bad Shabbos, December 9
National Theatre Live: The Importance of Being Earnest, January 14

Film at WJCT Studios debuted in 2024, following the closure of two popular independent movie theatres: the San Marco Theatre in 2023 and Sun-Ray Cinema in 2024. In its first season, 17 screenings were attended by nearly 3,000 film fans. Largest audiences were for the NT Live production of Fleabag, the independent film Secret Mall Apartment, and the Noir classic, Double Indemnity.

The nonprofit public media organization utilizes its versatile soundstage space to present a curated selection of films, filling a gap within the region’s entertainment scene while positively contributing to Downtown Jacksonville’s continued growth as a destination for arts and culture.

“One of our strengths as an independent public media organization is our ability to provide programs that directly meet the community’s wants and needs. Film at WJCT Studios is a perfect example of that principle in action. Our team has developed a unique film-viewing experience that is entirely community-focused, and we’re really pleased with the reception the series has received. Attendance has been great!” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media.

“VyStar is proud to support Film at WJCT Studios as it continues to grow into a vibrant cultural offering for our community,” said VyStar SVP/Foundation President Patricia McElroy. “This expanded season reflects the creativity and range of Northeast Florida, and we’re honored to help bring these stories to life in Downtown Jacksonville. Through our partnership with WJCT Public Media, we’re investing in experiences that inspire, connect, and enrich the lives of our members and the community.”

Additional titles will be added throughout the year. The Film at WJCT Studios series encourages the community to submit titles for consideration as it expands. Secret Mall Apartment was the first film screened at the request of an audience member. To suggest a film for consideration, visit wjct.org/film.

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About Vystar Credit Union:

VyStar Credit Union is the second-largest credit union headquartered in Florida, with 78 full-service?branches across Florida and Georgia, 1 million members and?assets of over $14 billion. VyStar is the top mortgage lender in Northeast Florida and a major employer in the region with over 2,300 employees across the communities it serves. VyStar membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the 49 contiguous counties of Central to North Florida, 29 Georgia counties, and past and present military members and their families all over the world. VyStar members have access to 55,000 surcharge free ATMs worldwide. For more information, visit vystarcu.org, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram,? X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.??

Community can support teachers with matching gift program

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Contact: Amy Henderson, Director of Marketing and Communications, JPEF

amy@jaxpef.org; cell: 404-387-0624

Photo Cutline: A partnership between the Community First Cares Foundation, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, and the Consortium of Florida Education Funds is providing Duval County teachers with matching funds through DonorsChoose. Donations enable teachers to provide classroom resources for students, such as this tool that helps Algebra students understand logarithms.

JPEF and Community First Cares Renew Annual Matching Gift Program
for Local Classroom Projects

Jacksonville, FL — Sept. 25, 2025 — The Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), in partnership with Community First Cares Foundation and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (CFEF), is once again joining forces to double donations for Duval County classroom projects through the DonorsChoose platform.

This annual initiative—now a valued tradition—matches every donation made to eligible Duval County Public Schools projects on DonorsChoose.org, ensuring that community support goes twice as far in putting essential tools and resources into the hands of local students and teachers. The funding benefits teachers for innovative programs not normally possible through traditional budgets.

Starting September 29, contributions to qualifying projects will be matched dollar-for-dollar until matching funds are exhausted.

“At JPEF, we are committed to mobilizing community support so every child has the tools they need to succeed,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, JPEF president. “This partnership with Community First Cares and CFEF allows us to put twice the resources into classrooms—empowering teachers to bring innovative ideas to life and inspiring students with learning experiences that go beyond what traditional budgets allow.”

Community First Cares Foundation—the philanthropic arm of Community First Credit Union—provides funding for the match, helping hundreds of classroom projects receive the support they need.

“Community Cares Foundation is proud to be a long-standing partner of JPEF in funding innovative and creative classroom projects that help enhance public education,” said Roger Rassman, chair of the board of Community First Cares. “JPEF is helping our teachers and students in impactful ways.”

Program Impact in the 2024-25 School Year

In the last program cycle, community generosity combined with matching funds helped:

Fund 139 classroom projects
Support 52 schools across Duval County
Reach and benefit more than 15,000 students

These projects provided books, STEM materials, art supplies, technology, and other tools that enriched lessons and inspired learning.

Donors can participate in three easy steps:

Visit www.donorschoose.org and search for Duval County projects.
Choose a project that inspires you.
Make a donation—knowing it will be matched to maximize your impact.

For more information and to support a classroom project, visit https://www.donorschoose.org/

About the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF)

About Community First Cares Foundation

Community First Cares Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Community First Credit Union. The foundation invests in local nonprofit organizations focused on education, health and human services, and the arts to help build a stronger Northeast Florida. Learn more at www.communityfirstfl.org.

AI is Retail’s New Gatekeeper According to Acosta Group Study: Personalization and Precision Marketing are Competitive Table Stakes

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

New research reveals how AI is influencing purchase decisions, trust, and expectations in grocery & retail

Jacksonville, Fla. – (Sept. 24, 2025) – Acosta Group has released the results of its new artificial intelligence shopper study in advance of Groceryshop 2025, reflecting that the AI revolution is well underway in reshaping how consumers shop. Brands and retailers who lean in are poised to lead, while brands that are slow to adopt are at risk of losing credibility and market share. The study, based on a survey of over 1,000 U.S. shoppers in Acosta Group’s proprietary Shopper Community, shows that AI has quickly moved from novelty to routine. Shoppers are using tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini to discover, evaluate, and even purchase products. “Generative AI tools are becoming the new gatekeepers of the shopper journey,” said John Carroll, President of Connected Commerce at Acosta Group. “Retailers and brands have to rethink and evolve how they show up in AI-powered environments, build trust with consumers, and prepare for a future where voice assistants and autonomous agents drive purchase decisions.”

CONSUMERS ARE ADAPTING AND ADOPTING

The new study found that a staggering 99% of shoppers are aware of AI, and 70% have used one or more AI tools or features to assist with shopping, with ChatGPT leading in usage and recognition. The key attributes of the tools, according to consumers, are to save money and time, and to compare or learn about products. Interestingly, despite extensive innovation from retailer-specific assistants such as Walmart’s Sparky and Amazon’s Rufus, fewer than 15% of shoppers have actually used those tools to date, highlighting the need for retailers to bridge these awareness gaps. Younger shoppers, especially Gen Z, are embracing the change. Fifty-three percent of Gen Z AI users find generative AI more trustworthy than traditional sources, reflecting a meteoric adoption of the new technology. Still, most retailers and brands are not yet optimized for this evolution in shopper behavior which requires a move away from broad marketing tactics toward precision strategies that resonate with individual shoppers across content and channels.

GROCERY LEADS AI ADOPTION

“Our research confirms that AI is transforming the way consumers shop, and consumers are embracing AI in grocery shopping faster than in any other category,” said Kathy Risch, SVP of Shopper Insights and Thought Leadership at Acosta Group. Grocery leads in AI-assisted shopping with 36% of shoppers having used an AI tool to help with tasks like researching, browsing, and buying. Other categories aren’t far behind: 28% of respondents have used AI to help shop for health and wellness products, 27% for electronics, and 25% for beauty and personal care items. This data points to a significant opportunity for brands to influence consumer decisions earlier in the path to purchase, but only if discoverable and trusted in AI ecosystems. “Space is limited with AI shopping tools,” said Carroll. “Shoppers are seeing only the top two-tothree options in their searches based on context and trust, in contrast to the digital shelf of over 25 items or the physical shelf of over 100 items that they’ve seen in the past. Brands need to understand the new retailer algorithms and revise their marketing strategies to earn a top spot in the digital consideration set.”

BUILDING TRUST

As AI gains traction, trust remains a barrier. While 58% of shoppers trust AI to find the best deal on a product and 50% trust it for product reviews, only a small fraction (12%) of shoppers currently trust AI to make purchases autonomously. Concerned shoppers cite worries over privacy (60%), fraud (56%), and making purchases without approval (56%). Notably, however, nearly one-third of shoppers are open to allowing a generative AI agent make grocery purchases on their behalf. Brands need to prioritize transparency, data protection, and consistent value delivery to build consumers’ trust and be positioned to support ongoing AI-assisted shopping adoption. KEY OPPORTUNITIES: OPTIMIZING TO DRIVE CONVERSION, CLOSE THE SALE “Today, brands and retailers need to optimize digital content across all platforms for AI-driven discovery and actively promote these tools to create demand,” Carroll said. “At the same time, we can’t overlook the fundamentals in the shopper journey: the worst case scenario is for AI to highlight your brand on the shortlist, and then miss the sale because your product is out of stock or not listed on the app.” A few key insights for gaining visibility and credibility in AI-powered discovery: • Shift from keyword to conversation – using real language to optimize content • Product detail pages and trust signals are essential currency – include shopper context, full attributes, and quality visuals • Ad strategy shifts from spend to substance – design zero-click and agent-friendly strategies 3 • Understand that AI recommendations drive what makes it into the shopper’s cart • Audit AI recommendations – prompt ChatGPT, Gemini, or another tool to monitor your brand presence • Strengthen brand and retailer collaboration – share AI demand signals to refine joint forecasts “In the near future, AI agents will be making at least some of our purchase decisions,” said Carroll. “The retail and brand winners will be those who build trust, show up in AI-powered environments, and make it easy for shoppers to say ‘yes.’” The Acosta Group study was conducted June 13 - 17, 2025, with 1,074 shoppers who are part of the company's proprietary Shopper Community and had shopped at least one retail channel in the prior three months. The Acosta Group Shopper Community is comprised of over 40,000 demographically diverse shoppers across the U.S. and is the company's proprietary community for survey engagement.

ABOUT ACOSTA GROUP

Acosta Group is a collective of the most trusted retail, marketing, and foodservice agencies empowering brands and retailers to win in the modern marketplace. By delivering transformative, commerce-focused solutions and more than 97 years of expertise, Acosta Group connects the company’s partners with people at every point in the consumer journey. Comprised of Acosta, ActionLink, CORE Foodservice, Crossmark, Mosaic, Premium Retail Services, and Product Connections, Acosta Group understands and anticipates evolving consumer needs, fueling accelerated performance to connect tomorrow’s commerce today. For more information, please visit acosta.group. Media contact: Sue Lee Acosta Group Slee1@acosta.com (612) 804-5192

Press Release: Hyland Trail breaks ground on Lodge Amenity Center

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:18:55 GMT

GREENPOINTE HOLDINGS PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Gaynelle James (904) 996-2485 or gjames@GreenPointeLLC.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hyland Trail breaks ground on Lodge Amenity Center

GreenPointe Holdings begins amenity construction at its new Clay County community

GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. (Sept. 23, 2025) – GreenPointe Holdings announces the start of construction on the Lodge Amenity Center at Hyland Trail, a recreation-first lifestyle community conveniently located near the newly opened stretch of the First Coast Expressway in Clay County. Members of the development team, including GreenPointe Holdings, Basham & Lucas Design Group, Jax Utilities Management, and Smith McKee Construction, recently gathered at the site for a commemorative groundbreaking.

“The Lodge Amenity Center will truly be the heart of Hyland Trail,” said Mike Taylor, President of Lifestyle Construction, GreenPointe Developers, the master-plan community and urban development division of GreenPointe Holdings. “Designed as a welcoming, family-friendly destination, it will be a place where neighbors come to relax, connect and enjoy life together.”

The Lodge Amenity Center will feature inviting gathering spaces overlooking a beach-entry pool and splash zone. Residents can stay active with a workout in the state-of-the-art exercise facility or enjoy a friendly game on the pickleball courts. The community will also feature miles of multi-use pathways ideal for walking, biking or jogging. Young residents will enjoy endless hours of adventure on the expansive playground, while pups will relish their off-leash time at Barks & Rec, the exclusive resident-only dog park. Hyland Trail’s amenity center is slated for completion in 2026.

Hyland Trail offers something for everyone, with new homes from the $300s. Dream Finders and Pulte offer one- and two-story, single-family homes for all ages ranging in size from approximately 1,500 square feet to over 3,500 square feet. The area’s first active-adult living neighborhood, Edenbrooke at Hyland Trail by Lennar, is designed for homebuyers 55+, featuring low-maintenance, open-concept home designs and exclusive resident-only onsite amenities. Dream Finders, Pulte and Lennar model homes are open daily. To learn more, visit LiveHylandTrail.com.

Hyland Trail is near excellent schools in the Clay County School District, shops and restaurants, and adjacent to the Ronnie Van Zant Park, which offers a disc golf course, sports fields, nature trails, a fishing pond with piers, pickleball courts, and more. Residents also enjoy easy access to Oakleaf Town Center, Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Cecil Commerce Center and downtown Jacksonville via the First Coast Expressway.

To learn more, visit LiveHylandTrail.com.

Photography:

GreenPointe Holdings announces construction is underway on the Amenity Center at Hyland Trail. From left:

Chris Dostie – Smith McKee Construction

David Smith – Smith McKee Construction

Billy Duke – Smith McKee Construction

Ryan Santmyer – Basham Lucas

Darrin Lindsay – Smith Mckee Construction

Gregg Kern – GreenPointe

Xavier Freshwater – Jax Utilities Management

Mike Taylor – GreenPointe

Brandon Powers – Jax Utilities Management

Gaynelle James – GreenPointe

Joe Cornelison – GreenPointe

Megan Brown-Maldonado - GreenPointe

Ramilito Alipio – Basham Lucas

Chris Hodge – Jax Utilities Management

Lodge Amenity Center at Hyland Trail rendering

About GreenPointe Holdings, LLC

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Freedom Boat Club of Northeast Florida Adds New Boats to its Newest Location on Julington Creek

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The franchise added a fifth location and new boats for members to enjoy boating freedom on the First Coast

Jacksonville, Fla., Sept. 22, 2025 – Freedom Boat Club (FBC) of Northeast Florida is now offering its members new chic and sporty boats at its new location along Julington Creek. The boat club opened Julington Creek West earlier this year to provide members with more boating freedom with 17 additional boats in the FBC fleet, including 13 brand new Barletta pontoon boats. This, combined with the red-carpet concierge service, makes boating with Freedom Boat Club simple and luxurious.

“We are so excited to be able to offer our members these amazing boats at our new location that are more family-friendly and more pet-friendly than ever,” said Lisa Almeida, co-owner of FBC of Northeast Florida. “Our new location also adds more value to a Freedom Boat Club membership, giving our members one more option and even more boats to choose from to enjoy all the boat accessible landmarks on the First Coast.”

The Barletta pontoon boats offer boat club members convenience and ease of use with electronic tops, making them easier for members to maneuver up and down. The boats provide a more comfortable seating arrangement, including a co-captain chair and furniture that wraps around the boat's perimeter, allowing a safer boating experience for children and pets. There is also a special doggy-dock view from the bow and port gates. In addition, the boats include a designated tow pole, making it easier to enjoy water sports.

Julington Creek West, at 12796 San Jose Blvd., is on the west side of the Julington Creek bridge, and complements the location east of the bridge. Members can enjoy instant access to the vast St. Johns River from this new location and many local landmarks. To the north, Freedom Boat Club members boat to downtown Jacksonville, local sporting events and entertainment, restaurants and Exchange Island. To the south, members can cruise to Black Creek, Doctor’s Lake, Palatka and Green Cove Springs, and dock at restaurants like Outback Crab Shack, Whitey’s Fish Camp, and Corky Bell’s.

Julington Creek West is just one of five locations where members enjoy boating freedom around the First Coast. Additional locations include Julington Creek Marina to the east of this new location, Beach Marine in Jacksonville Beach, Camachee Cove Marina in St. Augustine, and The St. Augustine Shipyard

About Freedom Boat Club

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

MOCA Jacksonville Announces Two New Events Celebrating Local Art and Scholarship

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

CONTACT:

Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications & Marketing

amber.sesnick@unf.edu // 904.620.3224

MOCA Jacksonville Announces Two New Events Celebrating Local Art and Scholarship

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville, a part of Arts UNF at the University of North Florida, announces two October events celebrating current exhibitions. Both events are free to the public and include access to MOCA’s galleries, as well as the opportunity to engage with the artists and scholars featured in current exhibitions.

FALL ARTS CELEBRATION

On Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 12 to 2 p.m., MOCA will host its Fall Arts Celebration, a free community event celebrating the awards for its inaugural Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Art Triennial exhibition featuring 64 Northeast Florida artists, along with the installation of two new exhibition—Project Atrium: Muralists in Action created by local muralists Dustin Harewood and Shaun Thurston, as well as Sebastian Vallejo: Where the Zephyrs Sleep in it UNF Gallery.

MOCA will announce five awards to artists featured in the exhibition, including the James W. Doyle Prize for Best in Show, as well as 2^nd and 3^rd place awards selected by the museum; a Visiting Curator’s Choice award selected by Adeze Wilford, the Blackmon Perry Curator of African American Art & Art of the African Diaspora at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art; and the People Choice award which has been voted on by the community. This brunch-style event, which takes place during VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA, will feature live music, light bites, and a cash bar.

PROJECT ATRIUM: MURALISTS IN ACTION

Conceived as an exhibition accompanying Jax Contemporary, Muralists in Action showcases the vibrant muralist scene of Jacksonville. Led by veteran artists Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood, authors and collaborators of many murals around town, a group of apprentices and students will transform the Atrium Gallery into an engaging mural. During the run of the exhibition, observe how the work progresses, culminating in a final work of art. On view Sep 22, 2025 - Feb 15, 2026.

SEBASTIAN VALLEJO: WHERE THE WILD ZEPHYRS SLEEP

The internationally recognized artist is known for his dynamic and evocative artwork reflecting his Puerto Rican heritage, celebrating bold color and symbolic imagery, and addressing the nuanced dialogue regarding Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. Commonwealth nation. On view Sep 6, 2025 - Feb 22, 2026.

BOOK LAUNCH & TALK: THE ARMORY SOUTH WITH DR. P. SCOTT BROWN

On Wednesday, October 29, 2025 from 7 to 9 p.m., MOCA will celebrate the launch of its newest catalog, The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman's Club Exhibition Rediscovered, written and researched by guest curator and art historian Dr. P. Scott Brown, Interim Dean of the Hicks Honors College at the University of North Florida. The catalog provides an in-depth view of MOCA's current exhibition by the same name. This event will begin with a presentation by Dr. Brown in MOCA's Theater, followed by a book signing. The event is free to attend on a first come, first served basis. Seats may be reserved by pre-ordering a copy of the catalog.

ABOUT DR. P. SCOTT BROWN

MEDIA PORTAL

To schedule interviews or request additional content, please reach out to Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications and Marketing at MOCA Jacksonville at amber.sesnick@unf.edu or 904-620-3224. Jade Delinger, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, and Michael Nardone are available for interview via phone or Zoom. Press releases, images, and credit lines related to each talk can be found through the link below:

https://www.dropbox.com/home/JAX%20not%20used/MOCA%20Jacksonville%20Team%20Folder/Media/Programs%20Fall%202025

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. In 2009, MOCA became a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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CHYPs & Champs: Mimosa Brunch to Benefit Pediatric Hospice Services

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Michelle Cardinal, Public Relations

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Cell: 904.477.4103

E-Mail: mcardinal@communityhospice.com

CHYPs & Champs: Mimosa Brunch to Benefit Pediatric Hospice Services

September 23, 2025 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – The Community Hospice Young Professionals (CHYPs) cordially invite the community to attend CHYPs & Champs, a lively mimosa brunch hosted by Refinery Jax Beach on Sunday, October 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., located at 831 First Street North.

Attendees will enjoy an open-bar brunch featuring mimosa pitchers and breakfast bites, all while cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars as they face off against the Los Angeles Rams at Wembley Stadium. The event is open to guests of all ages, welcoming the entire community to join in the celebration. Proceeds from the event will support The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s campaign for the new Dorion Family Pediatric Center for Community PedsCare®, which provides compassionate, comprehensive pediatric palliative and hospice care for children with life-limiting or life-threatening illnesses, alongside critical support for their families. Funds raised through events like CHYPs & Champs help expand and sustain these essential services in our community.

The brunch is organized by CHYPs, a vibrant collective of young professionals committed to raising awareness and funds while fostering community engagement and leadership. To register, please visit www.thefoundationcares.org or contact the Foundation at foundation@communityhospice.com or 904.886.3883.

# # #

About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,500 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com.

About The Foundation

WJCT Public Media Announces Fifth Season of Award-Winning “What’s Health Got To Do With It?” With Additional Florida Stations

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

New Season Launches September 27th

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Sept. 23, 2025 — WJCT Public Media is proud to announce the return of its flagship health program and podcast “What’s Health Got To Do With It?” for its fifth season, premiering September 27, 2025. This season marks a major milestone for the program as it expands to air on five additional Florida public radio broadcast stations, including:

WMFE and WMFV (Orlando, The Villages)
WGCU (Fort Myers and Naples)
WUFT (Gainesville)
WQCS (Treasure Coast)

Hosted by Dr. Joe Sirven, the weekly, hour-long talk show explores the critical intersections between healthcare and everyday life, offering listeners valuable insights as they navigate an increasingly complex medical information landscape.

The new season will kick off with compelling topics and guests, including:

September 27 – “When Every Second Counts”

Exploring sudden cardiac arrest, survivorship and the lifesaving power of hands-only CPR with Dr. Dale Mueller (HCA Florida Memorial Hospital), Reed Hammond (HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, First Coast American Heart Walk), and Caitlin Brunell (American Heart Association, Jacksonville).
Plus, a conversation with pioneering neurologist Dr. Anne Young, author of “Disorderly Movements: A Neurologist’s Adventures in the Lab and Life,” reflecting on her groundbreaking career and personal journey.

October 4 – “Medical Roundtable”

The show’s monthly panel of medical experts breaks down the latest healthcare headlines, including vaccines in Florida.
Guests include Dr. Donna G. Ivery, OB/GYN and author of Not Your Granny’s Menopause; Chad Neilsen, director of infection prevention and control at Nemours Children’s Health; and Dr. Tina Ardon, family physician at Mayo Clinic in Florida.

October 11 – “Beating the Odds in Brain Emergencies”

The story of rodeo legend Stran Smith, who survived a stroke caused by a heart defect, and his work with the NFL on the Heartmates initiative.
Spotlight on Florida’s Health Heroes, beginning with neurosurgeon Dr. Ricardo Hanel of Baptist Health in Jacksonville, Florida.

October 18 – “From Data to Diagnosis”

Katelyn Jetelina, epidemiologist and creator of “Your Local Epidemiologist,” the wildly popular newsletter on translating complex public health data into plain language.
Coping with cancer in early adulthood, with Dr. Cristina Pozo-Kaderman of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

With Dr. Joseph Sirven as host — a renowned physician and journalist — the program has built a dedicated following, featuring voices from 25 states and some of the world’s most respected medical institutions. Dr. Sirven is a Cuban American neurologist, professor and medical communicator. He is Emeritus Professor and the first Latino to serve as Chair of any neurology department at Mayo Clinic, where he continues to practice in Arizona. He also serves as editor for the Spanish-language content of “Brain & Life.” An internationally recognized epilepsy specialist, Dr. Sirven has published extensively and authored seven medical textbooks.

Dr. Sirven and the show team were recently honored by the Duval County Medical Society as the Winner of the 2025 Excellence in Healthcare Reporting: DCMS Print & Broadcast Journalism Award, which recognizes outstanding and accurate reporting of healthcare issues in the Northeast Florida region.

“What’s Health Got To Do With It?” airs every Saturday at 4 p.m. on WJCT News 89.9 in Jacksonville, with a repeat broadcast on Sundays at 9 p.m. New episodes are also available on-demand each Saturday through the WJCT Public Media app and all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio and more. “What’s Health Got to Do with It?” is provided in part by the American Brain Foundation, Neurelis and Rethreaded Inc.

“This expansion means even more Floridians will have access to trusted conversations about health,” said Dr. Sirven. “Whether it’s breakthroughs, personal stories or navigating our healthcare system, we want to empower listeners across the state to feel informed and supported.”

“We’re energized to see ‘What’s Health Got To Do With It?’ continue its growth beyond Jacksonville and reach new audiences across the State of Florida,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media. “At a time when knowing who to trust for medical information is increasingly difficult, Dr. Sirven’s expertise and passion for making healthcare understandable is exactly what public media should deliver — service that informs, connects and strengthens communities.”

For more information, visit news.wjct.org/programs/whats-health-got-do-it. Listeners can join the conversation by calling 904-358-6362 (6DOC), emailing questions and comments to health@wjct.org or engaging with the show on social media (@jsirven on X, and WJCTJax on Facebook). Coming this fall, WJCT will also launch “Health News Explained,” a newsletter that highlights timely health news topics with clarity and context for the Northeast Florida community.

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About WJCT Public Media:

Jax Tours Launches Downtown “Sips & Ships” Pub Crawl – Jacksonville’s Newest All-Inclusive Night Out

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL – (August 27^th, 2025) – Jax Tours is proud to announce the launch of its newest experience: the Sips & Ships Pub Crawl, a one-of-a-kind evening adventure through downtown Jacksonville’s vibrant entertainment district. Guests will sip, stroll, and play their way through some of the city’s best venues while enjoying history, games, and music along the way.

The pub crawl kicks off at the iconic USS Orleck Naval Museum, where guests receive their first drink and play an icebreaker game to set the tone for the night. From there, the tour weaves through downtown Jacksonville, stopping at local bars and breweries for exclusive drinks, fun challenges, and VIP entrances. The night ends with a rooftop DJ mixer at Sips on the Roof at Decca, offering sweeping sunset views of the river and skyline.

Every ticket includes:

A welcome drink aboard the USS Orleck
Drinks at each participating bar stop
A souvenir light-up glow cup
Fun games and challenges to win extra shots and drinks
VIP entrances and gratuities included

“We wanted to create a tour that goes beyond just barhopping,” said Tina Sauvage, Founder of Jax Tours. “Sips & Ships is about making memories - sharing laughs, exploring downtown, and bringing people together in a fun and unique way.”

Perfect for date nights, groups of friends, and corporate parties, the Sips & Ships Pub Crawl offers an all-inclusive way to experience Jacksonville nightlife like never before. Reservations are expected to sell out quickly—book your spot today at www.JaxTours.com

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About Jax Tours:
Jax Tours is your gateway to exploring Jacksonville in fun, meaningful, and memorable ways. We offer a variety of themed tours for locals and visitors alike—from our Culinary & Historic Food Tour to our family-friendly Junior Explorers program, as well as private group and corporate experiences.

Each tour is designed to showcase the unique stories, culture, and flavors of Jacksonville while supporting local businesses. Whether you’re looking for an educational outing, a lively night on the town, or a team-building experience, Jax Tours has something for everyone.

Stay updated on all our events and see the excitement for yourself by following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to stay updated on our tours and special events.

KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools Awarded More Than $500,000 in Philanthropic Support for Literacy Interventions

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Combined grants from The Louis Calder Foundation and The Warren and Augusta Hume Foundation support teacher development and curriculum innovation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — September 17, 2025 — KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools, a non-profit network of college-preparatory public charter schools educating elementary, middle and high school students, announced today it has been awarded more than $500,000 in combined philanthropic support to deepen literacy instruction and accelerate academic achievement across its network of schools.

The two-year, $350,000 grant from The Louis Calder Foundation marks a major philanthropic endorsement of KIPP Jacksonville’s ongoing strategy to ensure every child is taught by a highly trained, well-supported educator. The grant will support the continued expansion of KIPP Jacksonville’s English Language Arts program, including the purchase of Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA)-aligned materials and high-quality professional development through Lexia Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) training. It also provides partial funding for key leadership roles driving literacy instruction and curricular implementation across schools. KIPP Jacksonville has already seen measurable gains in student outcomes and educator confidence – according to a recent teacher perception survey, 92% of teachers reported that LETRS improved their content knowledge.

The $163,000 grant from The Warren and Augusta Hume Foundation supports a new 11-month professional development series delivered through The LIT Group, focusing on comprehension-based reading instruction for third through fifth grade students. This initiative continues the progress made through KIPP Jacksonville’s prior work with The LIT Group, which brought K–2 literacy instruction into alignment with the Science of Reading and helped boost second-grade benchmark scores from 30 percent to 50 percent over two years. The new program aims to extend that success into upper elementary grades by providing targeted coaching for educators, with the goal of further improving instructional practice and accelerating student achievement.

“At KIPP Jacksonville, we are deeply committed to ensuring that every student builds a strong academic foundation – starting with literacy,” said KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools Executive Director Dr. Melissa Fullmore. “These investments allow us to equip our educators with the training, tools and curriculum they need to deliver evidence-based instruction with excellence and consistency. It’s a pivotal step toward ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive academically and beyond.”

The new funding reflects KIPP Jacksonville’s reputation of excellence at the regional and national levels. Together, these grants power a continuation of KIPP Jacksonville’s multi-year focus on literacy, a cornerstone of the network’s academic strategy since 2019. These grants arrive during a milestone year for KIPP Jacksonville, as the network celebrates 15 years of service to the Jacksonville community. Since opening its doors in 2010 with a single fifth-grade cohort, KIPP Jacksonville has grown into a network of four schools across three campuses, serving more than 3,100 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. In May 2025, the network celebrated another historic first: the graduation of its inaugural senior class from Bold City High School.

“We are grateful to The Louis Calder Foundation and The Warren and Augusta Hume Foundation for these meaningful investments,” said KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools Chief Advancement Officer Ali Jaffery. “As we celebrate 15 years of growth and partnership, these grants reflect our community’s shared belief that every child deserves access to great teaching and a choice-filled life.”

KIPP Jacksonville is advancing a broader strategic vision to reimagine how the organization attracts, develops and retains top educators. With a focus on expanded certification pathways, instructional coaching, leadership development and performance-based compensation, this work aims to drive long-term talent growth and instructional excellence – ensuring that students, particularly those in Jacksonville’s highest-poverty ZIP codes, are taught by well-trained, well-supported and well-compensated educators.

For more information, visit www.kippjax.org.

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ABOUT KIPP JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools are tuition-free, public charter schools united around one goal: preparing students in underserved Jacksonville communities to make an impact in the world. Our newly constructed, beautifully maintained campuses are located on the north and west side of Jacksonville, and we serve over 3,100 students in grades kindergarten through 12. Every day, our dedicated educators and staff create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose — college, career, and beyond.

ABOUT THE LOUIS CALDER FOUNDATION:

The Louis Calder Foundation was established in 1951 “for educational, charitable, and benevolent uses and purposes.” To this day, The Foundation continues to follow and expand upon Louis Calder’s beliefs and efforts in promoting childhood education. The Foundation invests in organizations that seek to provide high-quality learning opportunities for children in under-resourced communities. We envision a nation where every child has the opportunity to obtain an excellent education, enabling them to walk a path to independence and success of their own choosing.

Nathaniel Efthimiou newly recognized as Associate Conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Jacksonville Symphony is pleased to announce Nathaniel Efthimiou has a new title: Associate Conductor & Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras (JSYO) Music Director.

“This well-deserved recognition celebrates his continued dedication and leadership with the JSYO. His commitment to our students and families makes a lasting impact and we are grateful for all that he brings to the Symphony,” said Marianne Rice Ed.D., Lory Doolittle Endowed Vice President/Music Education & Community Impact. For more information about Efthimiou Jacksonville Symphony visit https://www.jaxsymphony.org/featured-artists/nathaniel-efthimiou/

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Media Contact: Savannah Silliman

Marketing and Public Relations Manager Jacksonville Symphony 904.356.0426 ssilliman@jaxsymphony.com

PulteGroup announces new community in Clay County, Murray Farms

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Katie Robinson-Hensley (904) 648-6196 or Katie.Hensley@Pulte.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PulteGroup announces new community in Clay County, Murray Farms

Murray Farms features 40' and 50' single-family homesites

MIDDLEBURG, Fla. (Sept. 16, 2025) – The Northeast Florida Division of PulteGroup , one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, proudly announces plans for its newest community, Murray Farms in Clay County. Located off County Road 220 between Knight Boxx Road and College Drive, the new construction community will consist of approximately 87 single-family homesites.

“We are thrilled to introduce our latest Clay County community, Murray Farms,” said Justin Cook, President of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division. “With the area’s continued growth, the market demand for new homes in Clay County and the value Pulte offers, we expect strong home buyer interest at Murray Farms.”

Pulte Homes is building on 40’ and 50’ homesites and offering 10 new thoughtfully designed open-concept, consumer-inspired floorplans. A new model home is under construction and planned for opening in Fall 2025. There will be no CDD fees at Murray Farms. The community is zoned for excellent top-rated schools in the Clay County Public School District.

Murray Farms is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a picturesque setting. The community is located a short drive from the new First Coast Expressway and near Cecil Commerce Center, NAS JAX and Downtown Jacksonville.

Those interested in learning more about Murray Farms are encouraged to join the VIP interest list to be the first to hear about upcoming milestones, including community development updates, pricing, special events, promotions, the future grand opening and more. To join the VIP Interest List, call or text (904) 831-9300 or visit www.pulte.com/murrayfarms.

Artwork:

Murray Farms site map

About PulteGroup

About Pulte Homes

Pulte Homes is a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM). Pulte Homes builds consumer inspired homes and communities that provide the move-up buyer the best quality of life. Only Pulte Homes offers the combination of innovative Life Tested Home Designs® with an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit pulte.com.

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PARC Group Announces New Master-Planned Community in Jacksonville

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

EverRange to welcome first homeowners in 2026

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (September 16, 2025) — The PARC Group, the award-winning master developer behind Northeast Florida’s top-selling communities, Nocatee and eTown, has unveiled its newest vision: EverRange.

Centrally located off Philips Highway/U.S. 1, EverRange will span 1,000 acres and feature approximately 1,500 homes in its initial phase. The thoughtfully designed master-planned community will preserve half of its land for green spaces, shaded trails and native Florida foliage — offering a lifestyle rooted in balance between nature and neighborhood, recreation and restoration, and timeless tradition and modern accessibility.

“EverRange envisions a lifestyle that balances contemporary convenience with Old Florida charm,” said Chris Pilinko, President of The PARC Group. “We are creating a community that celebrates nature, fosters connection, and embraces everyday living at its best.”

A community built on connection and sustainability

The first neighborhoods in EverRange are expected to open in 2026, featuring six unique residential enclaves designed to reflect the community’s rustic-modern aesthetic and surrounding landscape.

At the heart of EverRange will be The Station, a walkable town center with neighborhood shops and services, and The Grove, a central amenity hub featuring:

A family-friendly pool
Pickleball courts
Children’s playground
Dog parks for both small and large breeds
A tranquil fishing pond
Electric-vehicle-friendly paths connecting neighborhoods

“The Grove will be a welcoming retreat, a central place for neighbors to relax, play and recharge,” added Pilinko. “It’s about creating spaces that bring people together and make life’s simple pleasures easy to enjoy.”

Prime location, endless possibilities

Ideally located between Nocatee and eTown, EverRange offers unmatched convenience in one of Jacksonville’s most desirable corridors. Future plans include a direct connection to The Exchange, eTown’s town center, further enhancing access to dining, services and entertainment.

Homebuyers can expect a variety of home styles and price points from top local and national builders, with additional details — including builder partners and model home openings — to be announced in the coming months.

Stay tuned for updates on builder announcements, model home openings, and the EverRange Certified Agent Program, which will offer early access and exclusive insights for participating real estate professionals.

About The PARC Group

The PARC Group is a local real estate development company with a proven track record of creating exceptional communities. Known for its commitment to quality, innovation and community engagement, The PARC Group continues to shape the landscape of Northeast Florida. For more information, visit parcgroup.net.

# # #

Steven Gallo (he/him)

Vice President, Client Services

President, SMPS North Florida (2025-26)

Jacksonville, FL (Eastern Time)

Direct line: 561.504.1657

FLORIDA THEATRE’S VIP MEMBER LOUNGE GETS NEW NAME WITH PNC BANK SPONSORSHIP

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

Jennifer Mikosky, Regional Communications, PNC Bank

(813) 397-9843 / jennifer.mikosky@pnc.com

FLORIDA THEATRE’S VIP MEMBER LOUNGE GETS NEW NAME WITH PNC BANK SPONSORSHIP

JACKSONVILLE, FL (Sept. 15, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre’s exclusive VIP member lounge was renamed the PNC Lounge on Friday, Sept. 12, marking a new collaboration with PNC Bank as the official naming rights sponsor. The 3,000 square foot lounge, located on the second floor of the administrative building, will serve more than 1,600 individual members and over 30 corporate partners who make an annual contribution in support of the nonprofit historic Theatre downtown and its programming.

“We thank PNC Bank for its continued commitment to the Florida Theatre and the nonprofit activities of this organization. Their sponsorship of the PNC Lounge helps underwrite the cost of providing free tickets to Title 1 schools and veterans and reduced rental rates for local nonprofit organizations, among other activities. PNC Bank is a long-time supporter of the North Florida arts community, and we’re thrilled to embark on this partnership as the Florida Theatre approaches its 100^th anniversary in 2027,” said Numa Saisselin, president of the Florida Theatre.

The PNC Lounge accommodates over 300 people standing and can also be reconfigured to accommodate 150 people seated at tables, enabling the Theatre to utilize the lounge as an alternate performance space on nights that the Theatre itself is dark. The PNC Lounge will also be rentable for business, civic, and private events.

“The Florida Theatre has been a cornerstone of this community for nearly 100 years, and PNC Bank is proud to add our name to this important chapter in its story,” said Chris Kalin, PNC regional president for North Florida. “The PNC Lounge not only provides an exclusive space to celebrate the venue’s history and those who support it, but also represents our continued commitment to investing in local institutions that enrich the lives of our neighbors and strengthen the communities we serve.”

The VIP member lounge was established in 2022 and was constructed by repurposing the formerly vacant second floor of the Florida Theatre Office Building. Connecting the Theatre to the office building and repurposing the space as a revenue-generating amenity for supporters was the brainchild of Saisselin.

Individual membership starts at $250 a year, and anyone can become a Florida Theatre member at any time on the Theatre’s website: www.floridatheatre.com.

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About PNC Bank

PNC Bank, N.A., is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking, including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance, and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.

About the Florida Theatre

There is something for everyone at the Florida Theatre. From pop, jazz, rock, comedy, country, and blues to ballet, the historic Florida Theatre offers over 200 cultural and entertainment events annually for every taste and age. For tickets, or to learn more about our educational performances for schools, rentals, membership, or the nonprofit corporation that manages this majestic place, please visit us at www.floridatheatre.com.

New Photos! HCA Florida Orange Park Celebrates NICU Graduates at Annual Celebration

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Photos linked HERE https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/fw0iqcyzh4ercb9darqrs/AHy7aUJzp3BGNSFF8Hb1W_A?rlkey=dgzlhq166pd68oxw6kjzqz08i&st=z2mehqct&dl=0

Media contact:

Rachel Berry

904.947.9900

Rachel.Berry2@HCAHealthcare.com

HCA Florida Orange Park Celebrates NICU Graduates at Annual Celebration

Jacksonville, Florida – September 13, 2025 – HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital hosted its annual NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) Reunion. This festive event celebrated NICU Awareness Month and honored the incredible journeys of the hospital’s tiniest patients, their families and caregivers. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Awareness Month is observed every September in recognition of the families who have or are currently experiencing stays in a hospital’s NICU, which as many know can be a challenging time.

The day was filled with fun and connection, including family-friendly carnival festivities. Attendees enjoyed face painting, games, an interactive NICU room exploration station, lunch, prizes, and more. The reunion is always a wonderful opportunity for families to reunite with the dedicated NICU staff and team of caregivers who provided support during their first days of life.

“Every year, we are honored to host this event that unites our hospital community with the families and caregivers who have shown incredible resilience,” said Chad Patrick, Chief Executive Officer at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. “It’s a true celebration of hope and the amazing progress our NICU graduates have achieved.”

For babies born prematurely or with medical needs requiring intensive care, neonatal intensive care units provide specialized treatment for the tiniest of patients. As a Level II NICU, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital provides highly specialized, around-the-clock health services for babies born as early as 32 weeks or 1,250 grams, as well as babies born with critical illness at all gestational ages. In fact, a study in recent years has estimated that between 9 and 13% of infants require neonatal intensive care for complex medical needs. A stay in the NICU can be caused by various reasons including prematurity, respiratory distress, infection, low blood sugar and other conditions in both the mother and newborn.

“We are so excited to celebrate the outstanding care that our NICU team provides to families in our community and loved reconnecting with our former patients,” said Suzanne Jones, Director of Women and Children’s Services at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital.

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About HCA Florida Healthcare in Jacksonville

NEEDTOBREATHE ANNOUNCES “THE BARELY ELEGANT ACOUSTIC TOUR” STOP ON FEBRUARY 7, 2026 AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

NEEDTOBREATHE ANNOUNCES

“THE BARELY ELEGANT ACOUSTIC TOUR” STOP

ON FEBRUARY 7, 2026 AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (September 12, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre and Live Nation are proud to announce NEEDTOBREATHE on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

Despite a 20-year history filled with accolades, Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum band NEEDTOBREATHE approached their latest studio album with a renewed mindset — a band still feeling they have something to prove.

Over the years, they’ve carved out a distinctive space across multiple genres, blending modern rock, purpose-driven soul, and pop appeal into a rare and impressive track record.

With five #1 albums spanning the Billboard Rock, Alternative, and other charts, over three billion career streams, and multi-platinum hits like “Brother,” “Who Am I,” and “Let’s Stay Home Tonight,” NEEDTOBREATHE has captivated audiences worldwide.

Their music reflects two decades of masterful songwriting and musicianship, exploring life’s profound emotions and experiences.

Their most recent effort continues this journey, exploring themes of personal struggle, redemption, and resilience.

To learn more, visit https://www.needtobreathe.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, September 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

CITI CONTINUES 29-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH FLORIDA THEATRE AND THEATREWORKS

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

CITI CONTINUES 29-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH FLORIDA THEATRE AND THEATREWORKS

JACKSONVILLE, FL (September 10, 2025) – Citi, a Corporate Partner of the Florida Theatre since 1996, has announced its renewed support of the historic Theatre and Theatreworks.

Citi has supported free summer theatre in the Theatreworks program at the Florida Theatre for 29 years. “It’s so important to us,” said Heidi Matheny, Jacksonville Site Communications Lead at Citi. “We feel that it’s really important for students to have access to free live theatre, and so supporting the program in the summertime, as well as a couple of shows throughout the year, is just really awesome for us, and our employees just love that we’re so involved.”

Theatreworks provides the best national touring children’s theatre to school-age children on the First Coast. Founded in 1979, Theatreworks was an independent organization until it merged with the Florida Theatre in 2019. Each show has themes that fit with the curriculum of Duval County. Enforcing the curriculum, the shows have study guides to provide an enriching learning experience and discussion points.

To see the video interview with Numa Saisselin (Florida Theatre), Jamie Kent (Theatreworks), and Heidi Matheny (Citi), please click here.

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About Citi

Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management, and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions, and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | X: @Citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi

About the Florida Theatre

Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras present Eight Concerts for the Community during the 2025/26 Season

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (September 10, 2025) — The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras (JSYO) have a great season of performances in Jacoby Symphony Hall showcasing their six ensembles. The first concert takes place on November 9, 2025, with the final performance on May 11, 2026. These events give young students the opportunity to develop as musicians, share their talents and strengthen their musical skills as evolving artists.

During the Fall, Holiday and Winter concerts JSYO will present pieces by Dmitri Shostakovich, Antonín Dvorák, Quinn Mason and more. These concerts are enjoyable for the whole family and offer a wide variety of programming.

The JSYO’s Repertory Orchestra and Philharmonic ensembles perform with the musicians of the Jacksonville Symphony during the Major/Minor concert on May 6, 2026. This unique collaboration offers talented youth the chance to hone skills and shine alongside seasoned Symphony musicians. The concert will feature the winner of the JSYO Young Artist Competition, performing as a soloist.

This year also welcomes two Solo Recitals on March 14 and April 18, 2026, taking place in the Terry Concert Hall at Jacksonville University. Free and open to the public, these are optional opportunities for JSYO students to highlight their hard work by performing solo pieces.

The final performance of the season is the annual Festival of Strings on May 11, 2026. Four ensembles of the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras come together with nearly 100 students from Communities In Schools' “Jump Start Strings” after school program for a performance featuring over 200 young musicians.

In collaboration with the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival, the Jacksonville Symphony will host a masterclass by GRAMMY® winner Imani Winds. JSYO students will be performing for the members of the renowned ensemble on January 27, 2026 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts.

2025/26 JSYO Schedule

· Fall Concert: November 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

· Holiday Concert: December 8, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

· Winter Concert: February 22, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.

· Young Artist Competition: February 23, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

· First Solo Recital: March 14, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

· Second Solo Recital: April 18, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

· Major/Minor: May 6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

· Festival of Strings: May 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

About the Jacksonville Symphony

The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 115,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact:?? Savannah Silliman Marketing and Public Relations Manager?? Jacksonville Symphony? ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org?

ANNOUNCING THE JACKSONVILLE PORCHFEST 2025 MUSIC LINEUP

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Contact: Michael Haskins FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: 904-353-7727

Email: executivedirector@sparcouncil.org

ANNOUNCING THE JACKSONVILLE PORCHFEST 2025 MUSIC LINEUP

JACKSONVILLE, FL, September 9, 2025 - Jacksonville PorchFest returns to Historic Springfield on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Presented by Corner on Main & Gateway Jax, Jacksonville PorchFest is a FREE, family- and dog-friendly music festival and features over 20 musical acts performing from 12 PM - 8 PM, plus food trucks, craft beer, art vendors, and more.

This year’s event takes place on Saturday, November 8th just East of Main Street in Historic Springfield. For more information on Jacksonville PorchFest, including VIP tickets, parking, and more, visit our website at jacksonvilleporchfest.org.

Jacksonville PorchFest 2025 Music Lineup

Big Sky

Disco Cowboy

“The Broadway Louie Show,” prod. by Poncho

1blackfrend

Annie Dukes

Babe Honey

Blood, Sweat and Whiskey

Blossomin’ Bone

Dizzlephunk

Inspection 12

Kalani Rose & The Vibe

Kenzie’s Place

Küf Knotz & Christine Elise

LPT

Melissa Case Live

Purplespace

The Queens of Tulua, ft. The Lady Visaya

rickoLus

Taylor Roberts

Sauce Pocket

Tori Nance Band

Kirk Whalen

Thank you to our sponsors and partners for their support:

? Presenting Sponsors: Corner on Main and Gateway Jax

? Gold Sponsor: UF Health Jacksonville

? Silver Sponsors: Balch & Bingham and Karpeles Grand by JPRE Development

? Bronze Sponsors: Driver McAfee Hawthorne & Deibenow PLLC, Florida Blue, GAI Consultants | Community Solutions Group, Leaf Filter Gutter Protection, TerraWise Homes, and Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)

? Our Partners: City of Jacksonville, Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, LISC Jacksonville, and Visit Jacksonville

Additional sponsorship opportunities available at jacksonvilleporchfest.org/sponsor. Our sponsors allow us to keep Jacksonville PorchFest free to attend. Their support makes PorchFest possible.

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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District. Proceeds of Jacksonville PorchFest benefit arts and culture programming in Jacksonville’s Urban Core.

PulteGroup and Altman Announce New Del Webb Community in Palm Coast, Florida

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division Closes on First Phase to Develop Initial 223 Homes in Planned 650-Home Active Adult Community

PALM COAST, FL - September 8, 2025 –Del Webb, the nation's leading builder of active-adult communities for those 55 and older, alongside Altman, a leading real estate development company, are excited to announce the upcoming launch of Del Webb Flagler Beach in Palm Coast, FL. Del Webb closed on the first phase of homesites and plans to begin development of the initial 223 homes within the 55+ active adult community. At full build-out, Del Webb Flagler Beach will total approximately 650 homes.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Del Webb lifestyle to Palm Coast,” said Justin Cook, PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division President “With decades of experience creating communities where active adults can truly thrive, we’re excited to deliver a place surrounded by nature, resort-style amenities, and the best of coastal Florida living.”

At full build out, Del Webb Flagler Beach will span 505 acres, with nearly half of the land dedicated to wetland preservation, enhancement, and restoration. The first phase of the community is expected to feature 223 homes, offering five models and up to ten floor plans ranging from approximately 1,300 to 2,800 square feet.

This gated community will offer a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities, with resort-style amenities including a spacious clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pickleball and bocce courts, and a community garden. Residents will also enjoy walking trails with direct access to the Lehigh Trail, a 6.7-mile walking and biking trail known for its lush tree canopy and natural beauty.

“We are excited to partner with Del Webb to bring its strong brand recognition, extensive experience and proven track record in active adult living to Palm Coast,” said Seth Wise, CEO of Altman. “We look forward to working with them to establish Del Webb Flagler Beach as a premier active adult community in the growing area.”

Located between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach in the City of Palm Coast, Del Webb Flagler Beach will offer convenient access to I-95 and U.S. Route 1, placing residents near some of the region’s most desirable destinations. The community is close to area beaches, top-rated golf courses, shopping, including the new Promenade at Town Center, slated for completion in early 2026, dining, entertainment, and high-quality healthcare, including two full-service AdventHealth hospitals.

Land development of Del Webb Flagler Beach is expected to start later this year.

About Altman

Altman is a real estate company that has been engaged in the acquisition, development, and sale of multifamily rental apartment communities, warehouse and logistics facilities, and single-family master-planned housing communities primarily located in Florida and the Eastern United States. Altman is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BBX Capital, Inc. For more information, visit Altmancos.com.

About Del Webb

Del Webb, a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc., builds consumer-inspired homes and communities for active adults ages 55+ who want to continue exploring, growing, and learning socially, physically, and intellectually as they look forward to retirement. Del Webb’s continued expansion into the greater Nashville area underscores the company’s strategic growth and recognition of the region’s appeal to active adults.

About PulteGroup

PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of America’s largest homebuilding companies with operations in more than 45 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta Homes, American West and John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup’s purpose is building incredible places where people can live their dreams.

City Year Jacksonville Honors 60 Student Success Coaches at 2025-2026 Opening Day Ceremony

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Media Contact:

Nan Kavanaugh

904-452-8715

nan@wearewingard.com

The Organization Will Serve in Nine Schools Throughout Duval County This School Year

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — September 8, 2025 — City Year Jacksonville, the local chapter of the national nonprofit, celebrated 60 Student Success Coaches at their Opening Day Ceremony, supported by Whataburger, on September 6, 2025, at Westside Middle School. The young leaders, 28 of which are returning for a second year, will serve in nine schools throughout Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) during the 2025-2026 school year – providing vital mentorship and academic support to students.

This year, City Year Jacksonville will return to serving at middle schools serving at Landmark and Westside Middle Schools; and will also serve at seven elementary schools including Jacksonville Heights Elementary School, Northwestern Legends Elementary School, Highlands Estates Academy, San Jose Elementary School, Andrew Robinson Elementary School, and Rutledge H. Pearson Elementary School; which City Year Jacksonville served in last year, and a new addition; Smart Pope Livingston Elementary School.

Northwestern Legends Elementary School received a D rating by the Florida Department of Education in 2024. By the end of the 2024-2025 school year, the school was given a B rating, in part due to the powerful academic mentorship provided by City Year Jacksonville Student Success Coaches. Six of the nine schools that partnered with City Year last year also saw a positive shift in their school rating, including Highlands Estates Academy, San Jose Elementary, Andrew Robinson Elementary, Crown Point Elementary, and Woodland Acres Elementary.

“We are kicking off another school year knowing our team of young leaders will make a daily, positive impact on the lives of students in our community. That is something worth celebrating,” said Allishia Bauman, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of City Year Jacksonville. “Opening Day is about acknowledging their commitment, getting energized, and rooting ourselves in our reasons for serving. We are grateful for our partnership with Duval County Public Schools, in addition to the incredible support of our community, without which we would not be able to do this important work. We are especially grateful that our first-time school partner, Westside Middle, is hosting us for Opening Day.”

Each year, City Year sites across the country kick off a new year of community service with an Opening Day ceremony, a nod to the concept of “Opening Day” in baseball. On Saturday, September 6, City Year Jacksonville celebrated a new cohort of incredible young people between the ages 18 and 25, who have dedicated the next year to serve their community. The ceremony was held at Westside Middle School, with Student Success Coaches hailing from Key West to Kentucky, as well as many from across Northeast Florida. During the ceremony, Student Success Coaches shared personal accounts as to why they have committed to serve and took the City Year Pledge.

For more information on City Year Jacksonville and how to get involved, visit www.cityyear.org/jacksonville.

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About City Year Jacksonville:

JEA Board Approves Plan to Build Combined Cycle Plant to Meet Future Energy Needs

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL – The JEA Board of Directors voted unanimously Aug. 26 to approve a plan for the utility to build a combined cycle natural gas facility at the former St. Johns River Power Park site. The plan delegates authority to CEO and Managing Director Vickie Cavey to negotiate and sign an agreement with GE Vernova by the end of August to reserve JEA’s position in the manufacturer’s production schedule.

This infrastructure investment will allow JEA to strengthen system reliability and meet future energy demands as Northeast Florida’s population grows and energy load growth continues. The board’s approval sets the project cost at $1.57 billion.

“We have to be able to deliver reliable energy to everyone, all JEA customers. The risk is unacceptable if we punt combined cycle down the road. My personal view is that the risk isn’t worth it,” JEA Board Chair Joseph DiSalvo said.

A combined cycle power plant uses both gas and steam turbines to produce up to 50 percent more electricity from the same fuel than a traditional simple-cycle plant. A new combined cycle plant will allow JEA to replace, and increase, electricity currently being produced by the 48-year-old Northside Generation Station Unit 3, a natural gas unit. The utility plans to retire Unit 3 by 2031 due to its age, costly repairs and the potential need for more investment due to environmental regulations.

A new combined cycle plant will have the capacity to generate up to 675 megawatts enough to power up to 300,000 homes.

JEA has recommended a combined cycle plant as a replacement for Northside Unit 3 several times in the past decade, including in its Integrated Resource Plan in 2023. The benefits of JEA developing a combined cycle plant rather than purchasing the power through another utility include:

Full control over dispatch and operations
Lowest long-term cost per Megawatt hours
Local jobs and economic benefits
Debt-free facility after 30 years
30 percent better gas efficiency vs. Northside Generating Station Unit 3

Video: See How Combined Cycle Power Works at JEA’s Brandy Branch Generating Station

Photo: Turbine image from GE Vernova

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About JEA
JEA is a municipal utility providing safe, reliable and affordable services to more than one million residents across four Northeast Florida counties. JEA is not owned by investors and does not earn a profit. It was created by the City of Jacksonville to meet the electricity and water needs of those who live in Jacksonville and surrounding communities. JEA’s 2,200-plus workforce is dedicated to meeting customer needs, both today and for generations to come, while protecting our precious natural resources and supporting our region’s growth and economic development. Learn more at jea.com.

Publix to Anchor Pearl Square, Bringing Full-Service Grocery to Downtown Jacksonville

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

New location marks grocer’s first entry into Downtown, part of $2 billion neighborhood transformation by Gateway Jax

Jacksonville, Fla. –– September 3, 2025 –– Gateway Jax, a Jacksonville-based commercial real estate development firm, today announced that it has signed a lease with Publix as the full-service grocery anchor for Pearl Square, the walkable, mixed-use neighborhood rising in Downtown Jacksonville. The Florida-based, employee-owned supermarket chain will bring a new 31,000-square-foot store at 119 W. Beaver Street.

Located between Hogan and Laura Streets, the new Publix will occupy a mixed-use building that will also include a 15-story residential tower with approximately 250 apartments and integrated parking with 400 spaces. The project, developed in partnership with Corner Lot, is slated to commence construction in summer 2026.

“For 95 years, Publix has provided premier service and quality products in a welcoming store environment,” said Hannah Herring, Publix media relations manager. “We are excited to continue that legacy as part of the Pearl Square neighborhood.”

Publix’s arrival will fill a long-standing gap in full-service grocery access for residents of Downtown and surrounding urban neighborhoods — marking the first new construction grocery store in the area in more than a decade. The store represents a major milestone in the momentum of Pearl Square, the multibillion-dollar redevelopment effort that is transforming underutilized Downtown blocks into a connected, amenity-rich neighborhood.

Sponsored by JWB Real Estate Capital and DLP Capital — two mission-driven investment firms with deep roots in Northeast Florida and a shared vision for revitalizing urban communities — Gateway Jax is leading this transformation with a focus on walkability, vibrancy and long-term impact.

Upon completion, Pearl Square will encompass more than 1,250 new residential units; approximately 200,000 square feet of retail tenants including restaurants, fitness and other daily amenities; and the revitalization of the historic Ambassador Hotel, a 100+ key boutique hotel. It will feature vibrant new public spaces, including widened and shaded sidewalks; lush public park spaces; and a signature curbless festival street with abundant outdoor dining possibilities.

“A grocery store is the heartbeat of any neighborhood,” said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax. “The addition of Publix, already well-known and loved, is a game-changer for Downtown and an incredible step forward for Pearl Square. It brings everyday convenience and reinforces our commitment to building a complete, connected community that reflects the energy of Jacksonville.”

Gateway Jax began construction on the first two Pearl Square buildings, 515 Pearl Street and 425 Beaver Street, in late 2024 and spring 2025 with several additional buildings starting construction later this year and in 2026. The long-term plan represents more than $2 billion in investment over the next decade, reimagining Downtown Jacksonville as a place to live, work, shop and explore.

For Downtown developers and advocates alike, this announcement represents a significant moment in the neighborhood’s evolution.

“In 2020, when JWB started assembling the land that would eventually become Pearl Square, it was seen by many as a pipe dream. And it probably would have been — if not for the leadership of Bryan Moll, Nick Halloran, Eric Shullman and the rest of the Gateway Jax team. What they have already been able to accomplish in just a few years has been absolutely incredible, and I look forward to seeing them continue to bring amazing amenities to Downtown Jacksonville over the next few years,” said Alex Sifakis, President of JWB Real Estate Capital, a sponsor of Gateway Jax.

“At DLP Capital, we believe thriving communities are built on the foundation of everyday essentials — like access to quality, convenient groceries,” said Don Wenner, Founder and CEO of DLP Capital. “The addition of Publix to Pearl Square is more than a milestone; it’s a testament to the vision, leadership, and momentum Gateway Jax is driving in Downtown Jacksonville. We’re proud to support developments that uplift working families and transform neighborhoods into vibrant, connected places to live, work, and thrive.”

"It speaks volumes about this development — and about Gateway Jax as a whole — when a brand like Publix commits to being part of the transformation,” said Matthew Clark, Senior Vice President of Colliers Urban Division, which represents Gateway Jax in retail leasing for Pearl Square. “Their corporate team has spent meaningful time in Jacksonville , taking the time to truly understand the market and helping shape a compelling story for Pearl Square."

For updates and leasing information, visit pearlsquare.com.

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About Publix Super Markets

Publix, the largest employee-owned company in the U.S. with more than 260,000 associates, currently operates 1,411 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky. For 28 consecutive years, the company has been recognized by Fortune as a great place to work. In addition, Publix’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is recognized among the top in the grocery business. For more information, visit the company’s newsroom at corporate.publix.com/newsroom.

About Gateway Jax

Gateway Jax is committed to working in collaboration with residents and communities to build future-forward ways of working, living and playing. Learn more at gatewayjax.com.

About DLP Capital

DLP Capital is a private real estate investment firm focused on transforming lives through the building of Thriving Communities. Together with our investors, we finance, develop, construct, and operate safe, attainable rental housing for America’s working families—including multifamily, single-family, manufactured housing, and outdoor hospitality communities. With over $5.25 billion in assets under management and a track record of consistent returns, DLP Capital provides accredited investors with access to a suite of evergreen real estate investment funds. Through strategic partnerships and mission-aligned lending, we also empower other real estate sponsors to create housing solutions that improve lives. DLP Capital has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America for 12 consecutive years. The firm is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, with additional offices in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and Asheville, North Carolina. For more information, visit www.dlpcapital.com.

About JWB Real Estate Capital

JWB Real Estate Capital was founded in 2006 in Jacksonville and has grown into one of the premier development companies in Northeast Florida. Its core business is providing passive real estate investments for its clients across the globe, and JWB currently has over $1.3 billion of assets under management for those clients. JWB is a leader in the affordable housing space, building hundreds of affordable rental homes every year and is currently developing over 2,300 single family lots and 1,300 multifamily units. With over 5,400 units under management, affiliated company JWB Property Management is the largest single-family property management company in Jacksonville. JWB is very proud that over 90% of the rental units it manages are affordable to households making 80% or less of the Average Median Income (AMI). JWB has been named to the Inc. 5000 list 11 times, named a Best Places to Work eight times, and in 2022 was named a Florida EY Entrepreneur of the Year award winner. For more information visit www.JWBRealEstateCapital.com.

About Corner Lot

Corner Lot is a Jacksonville-based real estate development firm specializing in residential, commercial, and mixed-use communities. With a focus on purposeful planning and partnerships, Corner Lot is dedicated to creating spaces that enhance the way people live, work, and connect throughout the Southeast.

Jumbo Shrimp, Peak Events LLC to host third annual Live Like Lou Jax College Baseball Classic

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Indiana, LSU, Notre Dame, UCF are set to play in round-robin tournament from Feb. 20-22, 2026 at VyStar Ballpark

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and Peak Events LLC are set to host the third annual Live Like Lou Jax College Baseball Classic, a round-robin tournament to be held from Feb. 20-22, 2026 at VyStar Ballpark. The 2026 Jax College Baseball Classic will feature four of the nation’s top college baseball teams: Indiana, LSU, Notre Dame and UCF.

“We have enjoyed a fantastic environment at each of the previous two Live Like Lou Jax College Baseball Classics,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “We look forward to the huge base of college baseball fans throughout the area seeing another set of four great teams take the field at VyStar Ballpark. Thank you to Peak Events LLC for helping to continue this exciting event and we cannot wait to create another excellent experience for the student-athletes, coaches and fans.”

The 2026 Jax College Baseball Classic showcases two teams coming off NCAA postseason appearances in 2024, with LSU winning the College World Series and reaching the final stage for the second time in three years.

"We are excited to be back at VyStar Ballpark for year three of the Live Like Lou Jax Classic,” said Peak Events LLC vice president Nathan Woolridge. “This year's event is shaping up to be the best one yet with four top teams, including the defending national champions. In addition, a newly-renovated VyStar Ballpark, which has become one of the top ballparks in the country and a premier early-season destination for some of college baseball's best teams. We appreciate the partnership with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and the Live Like Lou Foundation in helping us continue to raise the profile of this event and to expand the impact of the Live Like Lou Jax Classic across college baseball and the ALS community."

The weekend tournament will have two games per day at VyStar Ballpark. Tickets can be purchased on a day-by-day basis including both games played on the same day or as a weekend package in select seating sections with both reserved and general admission seating options available.

Friday, February 20 – LSU vs. Indiana, 2 p.m.; UCF vs. Notre Dame, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 21 – Notre Dame vs. LSU, 12 p.m.; UCF vs. Indiana, 4 p.m.

Sunday, February 22 – Alabama vs. Notre Dame, 11 a.m.; LSU vs. UCF, 3 p.m.

In 2025, the tournament’s field included Alabama, Coastal Carolina, NC State and Ohio State. Alabama earned the Classic’s championship belt, winning all three of its games in a round-robin format. The Crimson Tide completed the weekend by overcoming a 10-run deficit against the Buckeyes, capped by a Will Hodo walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning.

ABOUT PEAK EVENTS, LLC AND PEAK SPORTS MGMT: Peak Events, LLC, a sister company of Peak Sports MGMT, is an event management firm specializing in collegiate sporting events based out of Allen, Texas. Other properties for Peak Events include the Live Like Lou Las Vegas Classic, Battle at the Ballpark, Frisco College Baseball Classic, Karbach Round Rock Classic, and Discs at the Diamond. Find more info at www.peak.events.

CHRIS D’ELIA BLASTS INTO A NEW DIMENSION WITH “STRAIGHT OUTTA THE MULTIVERSE” AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE ON NOVEMBER 30, 2025

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (September 3, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre and Icon are proud to announce Chris D’Elia, Straight Outta The Multiverse, on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787. Ask about the VIP/Meet & Greet package available for this show.

Chris D'Elia has become one of the most in-demand performers in comedy. His highly successful podcast Congratulations With Chris D’Elia has been a mainstay on iTunes' comedy podcast charts since its debut in February 2017. He is also a co-star on The Golden Hour with Brendan Schaub and Erik Griffin.

As a stand-up comedian, D'Elia has toured the US and Canada. D'Elia has three comedy specials available on Netflix: No Pain (2020), Man On Fire (2017), and Incorrigible (2015). He was chosen as one of four comics to represent the U.S. in Netflix's 2019 Series Comedians of the World, which features 47 comedians from 13 regions in eight different languages. His first special, White Male, Black Comic, debuted on Comedy Central in 2013, and he can be seen on Comedy Central's Roast of Justin Bieber (2015).

To learn more, visit https://www.chrisdelia.com/.

Tickets go on sale Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Buy them at www.floridatheatre.com or the Florida Theatre Box Office at (904) 355-2787.

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About the Florida Theatre

GreenPointe Holdings welcomes Maryann Farhat as General Counsel

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Supporting GreenPointe’s growth and expansion

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Sept. 4, 2025) – GreenPointe Holdings, a diversified holding company dedicated to creating sustainable and high-value communities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maryann Farhat as General Counsel. In this role, Farhat will lead the company’s legal oversight and provide strategic counsel across its real estate development operations.

“Maryann’s extensive experience in real estate and business law, coupled with her proven leadership, makes her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Grady Miars, President and Chief Operating Officer, GreenPointe Holdings. “Her expertise in legal and compliance matters will be instrumental as we continue to grow and innovate in our ventures.”

With nearly a decade of legal experience, Farhat brings to GreenPointe a wealth of knowledge in real estate law, contract negotiation and disputes, property disputes, construction defects, and title insurance claims. Her strategic insight and proven capabilities will play a vital role in advancing GreenPointe’s development initiatives.

Farhat received her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law after earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Central Florida.

GreenPointe is developing communities throughout Florida and the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.GreenPointeLLC.com.

Photography:

Maryann Farhat, General Counsel, GreenPointe Holdings

About GreenPointe Holdings, LLC

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Southern Hills Expands Builder Team with Spire Homes

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

GREENPOINTE HOLDINGS PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Gaynelle James (904) 996-2485 or gjames@GreenPointeLLC.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern Hills Expands Builder Team with Spire Homes

Award-winning builder introduces new home designs from the $600s

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 26, 2025) – GreenPointe Holdings announces the addition of Spire Homes to its distinguished builder team at Southern Hills, the acclaimed country club community in Brooksville. With the debut of a decorated model home, Spire Homes introduces a collection that complements the community’s established offerings by AR Homes by Arthur Rutenberg, Perry Homes, Terrata Homes and Vitale Homes. Together, these builders present an array of homes defined by exceptional design, fine craftsmanship and enduring value.

“I am pleased to welcome Spire Homes to our premier homebuilder team at Southern Hills,” said Jim McGowan, Regional President, GreenPointe Developers, the master-plan community and urban development division of GreenPointe Holdings. “Spire’s reputation for inspired design and attentive service aligns beautifully with the experience we are creating here. Southern Hills is more than a place to live – it’s a club lifestyle destination – and with our exceptional builders, future residents will discover homes that meet the needs and desires of today’s home buyers.”

Spire Homes’ three-bedroom, three-bath Azalea model at Southern Hills highlights elegant design and modern sophistication with more than 2,600-square-feet of thoughtfully crafted space. A welcoming foyer leads into the expansive great room and chef’s kitchen where a quartz-topped center island, shaker cabinetry, subway tile backsplash and a large walk-through butler’s pantry set the stage for entertaining. The front office with double-door entry offers flexibility for work or study, while the owner’s suite impresses with an abundance of natural light, a tray ceiling, spa-inspired bath with dual sinks, quartz countertops and generous closet space. The three-way split bedroom plan also has an en-suite with full bath and walk-in closet, and an impressive secondary guest bedroom. The Azalea has a tranquil outdoor covered living space and a three-car garage with ample storage space. The Azalea model is open daily for tours.

Spire Homes, a National Builder Group company, was created with the main purpose of making life better for anyone they do business with. Guided by hard work, integrity and transparent communication, the company is dedicated to delivering homes of exceptional quality. This commitment has earned Spire Homes’ industry recognition including the 2024 winner of the Homeowners Mark of Excellence (H.O.M.E.) award.

At Southern Hills, Spire Homes is offering four distinctive home designs, priced from $600s, that combine modern style with functional living spaces. Several new homes are already underway.

The family of builders at Southern Hills, AR Homes by Arthur Rutenberg, Perry Homes, Spire Homes, Terrata homes and Vitale Homes, are constructing single-family, one- and two-story residences ranging in size from approximately 1,600-square-feet to more than 5,000-square-feet on homesites with golf, wooded preserve or lake views. Model homes from each builder are open daily. New homes at Southern Hills are priced from the $600s to over $2 million.

Set among rolling hills and surrounded by nature, Southern Hills has endless opportunities for social and recreational activities. The family-friendly country club community is home to one of Florida’s top-rated Pete Dye signature golf courses. Southern Hills residents enjoy a resort-style clubhouse featuring both fine and casual dining including the popular Sunnie’s poolside Tiki Bar and Café. Amenities abound with an Aquatic Center that features a lagoon-edge pool, lap area and heated spa, as well as an Athletic Center with full gym, water aerobics and strength training classes. The community offers pickleball and tennis courts, and more. Southern Hills has winding interconnected sidewalks that are perfect for biking, walking and jogging. High Tails Dog Park is coming soon for the community’s furry residents and their owners.

Just outside the gates of Southern Hills, residents can take advantage of nearby activities, attractions, restaurants, conveniences, and all Florida’s Adventure Coast has to offer. To learn more, visit www.SoHilly.com.

Photography:

Spire Homes’ Azalea model at Southern Hills is open daily for tours.
The Azalea model is light and bright, and highlights elegance and sophistication.

About GreenPointe Holdings, LLC

About Spire Homes

Spire Homes was founded in 2020 by Ken Romanczuk in collaboration with the National Builder Group out of Colorado Springs. Spire Homes is dedicated to building high quality homes that enhance their buyers lives by using beautifully designed plans with upscale, luxury features at an all-inclusive pricing platform. Their commitment to transparency and open communication throughout the building process has allowed them to rank amongst the best of the best builders in Customer Satisfaction. Spire Homes won the 2024 Homeowners Mark of Excellence or H.O.M.E. award from having a high focus on quality and customer experience.

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ANNUAL FLORIDA THEATRE TICKET DRAWING STARTS GET YOURS TODAY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN EXCLUSIVE SHOW TICKETS ONLY 1,500 DRAWING TICKETS WILL BE SOLD

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Carper, Press & Media Relations Manager, Florida Theatre

(904) 562-5988 / beth@floridatheatre.com

ANNUAL FLORIDA THEATRE TICKET DRAWING STARTS

GET YOURS TODAY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN EXCLUSIVE SHOW TICKETS

ONLY 1,500 DRAWING TICKETS WILL BE SOLD

WINNER WILL BE DRAWN ON NEW YEAR’S EVE

JACKSONVILLE, FL (August 26, 2025) –– The Florida Theatre is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated Annual Ticket Drawing, offering participants a rare opportunity to win coveted tickets to the most anticipated shows of the season. With only 1,500 tickets available for purchase, the drawing promises exclusive access to unforgettable performances.

On sale now through December 31, 2025, this limited-time event provides patrons with the chance to secure their drawing tickets early and support the vibrant cultural offerings of the Florida Theatre. By purchasing a drawing ticket at www.floridatheatre.com or (904) 355-2787, participants not only contribute to the preservation of this historic venue but also stand a chance to experience world-class entertainment up close.

"We are excited to launch our Annual Ticket Drawing for the 11th year in a row, providing our community with the chance to enjoy outstanding performances at the Florida Theatre," said Michelle Adams, Director of Development at the Florida Theatre. "With only 1,500 drawing tickets available, we encourage everyone to get theirs today for a chance to win and be a part of the magic."

Drawing tickets are $25 each (suggested donation), and all proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Florida Theatre. There is no limit to the number of tickets a person can purchase.

Each ticket gives the purchaser a chance to win one pair of tickets in the first six rows to each artist presented by the Florida Theatre in 2026 (a $1,500 value). They also make terrific gifts!

For artists with multiple performances, the winner will receive a pair of tickets to one performance by that artist. Rental performances are not eligible for tickets. Show tickets are transferable, but may not be resold.

The winner will be drawn on December 31, 2025.

“Ticket sales cover just half of the Florida Theatre’s annual budget, and fundraisers like this one help us close the gap each year,” said Numa Saisselin, President of the Florida Theatre. “The winner becomes exponentially more popular with friends and family. If the winner is unable to attend a particular performance, they can share their tickets with another lucky person.”

Tickets for the Annual Florida Theatre Ticket Drawing can be purchased online at www.floridatheatre.com or (904) 355-2787. Don't miss out on this opportunity to win tickets to memorable shows and events at the Florida Theatre.

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About the Florida Theatre

12th ANNUAL BLUES, BREWS, BOURBON & BBQ RAISES OVER $50,000 FOR THE HISTORIC FLORIDA THEATRE

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL (August 27, 2025) –– The historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre raised over $50,000 during its 12^th annual Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ event last week at Bowing Oaks. Many thanks to all the vendors, sponsors, members, and Theatre supporters who donated their services and purchased tickets to this amazing fundraiser!

Publix Super Markets Charities was the Presenting Sponsor of the August 21st event benefitting the historic Florida Theatre.

This is the third year Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ has been at Bowing Oaks. Bowing Oaks has been a Corporate Partner of the Florida Theatre since 2019.

“If the Florida Theatre were a BBQ sauce, it would be a tasty mix of honey, vinegar, and spices. Sweet, with an edge. Jacksonvillians have strong feelings about their BBQ, and the Florida Theatre, too,” said Numa Saisselin, President of the Florida Theatre. “We are deeply grateful to Bowing Oaks and all the food and beverage sponsors and everyone who attended for coming together to raise funds in support of the nonprofit and historic Florida Theatre.”

Attendees of this annual event enjoyed an electrifying evening of live Blues music from Smokestack, Toots Lorraine & The Traffic, and Neil Dixon, plus unlimited local BBQ, the best craft beer, and a curated bourbon selection.

The Florida Theatre wishes to thank all the generous vendors and sponsors below who made this wonderful event possible:

FOOD & DRINK VENDORS…

Bee Friends Farm

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

*Brackish Slightly Salty – Craft Master Winner

Graze Craze

Jacksonville Jaguars

Joseph’s Pizza

Julep Palm Valley

Legacy Ale Works

Manifest

Mocama Beer Company

Mojo Bar-B-Q

Pamos Cannabis Cocktails & Spirits

Ruby Beach Brewing Company

Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits

Southern Swells Brewing Co.

Texas Roadhouse

*V Pizza – Flavor Master Winner

Veterans United Craft Brewery

SPONSORS…

Presented By - Publix Super Markets Charities

Blues Sponsor - Auld & White Constructors

BBQ Sponsors – Community First Credit Union, Uniti Fiber

Brew Sponsors – Mullen Racing, L&L Supply Inc.

In-Kind Sponsors – AVL Productions, Bowing Oaks, Graze & Craze, Joseph’s Pizza, Texas Roadhouse

Media Sponsors – Jacksonville Free Press, Jacksonville Magazine, Resident Community News

Click here to see photos of the event. All proceeds from the annual Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ fundraiser go to the historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre.

Since its inception in 2013, Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ (formerly Blues, Brews & BBQ), has raised $449,446.98 for the Florida Theatre.

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About the Florida Theatre

acksonville International Airport Passenger Traffic Reaches All-Time High for Month of July

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

[Jacksonville, FL – August 22, 2025] – Over 709,000 passengers flew through Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) in July, making it the busiest July ever in the facility’s history.

The boost in activity represents a 3.1 percent increase over July 2024, which was the airport’s previous high-water mark for July passenger traffic.

“In the first half of 2025, 2 new airlines and 12 new nonstop destinations have landed at JAX,” Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) CEO Mark VanLoh said. “This is proof that Northeast Florida is a growing region and an attractive destination for airlines.”

Avelo Airlines flies nonstop to New Haven, Connecticut and Wilmington, Delaware. Air Canada offers seasonal daily flights to Toronto. Additionally, Allegiant Airlines added nonstop service to Akron/Canton, Des Moines and Grand Rapids. Breeze Airways added nonstop service to New Haven, Connecticut and will begin non-stop service to Akron-Canton in September. Southwest Airlines added Kansas City on Saturdays and will add non-stop service to Austin in October.

Because of the sustained growth in passengers, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) undertook several major infrastructure projects, several of which will be completed in the coming years. A third concourse, Concourse B, will add six new gates, additional concessions and passenger amenities. A third car parking garage will add approximately 2,000 new parking spaces for travelers. Both projects are estimated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026.

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The Jacksonville Aviation Authority operates Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and the city's three general aviation airports - Cecil Airport, Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX) and Herlong Recreational Airport. The Authority, funded through user fees and not local taxes, contributes over $6 billion annually to the local economy. For more information about the Jacksonville Aviation Authority's airports, please visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

Office Images welcomes Brooke Dovie Gay as Business Development Manager

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

OFFICE IMAGES PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Madelen Salter (904) 398-9761or msalter@officeimagesinc.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Office Images welcomes Brooke Dovie Gay as

Business Development Manager

Supporting dealership’s growth and expansion

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 19, 2025) – Office Images, a nationally respected, full-service workplace furniture and architectural solutions dealership, proudly announces Brooke Dovie Gay has joined the team as Business Development Manager. In her role, Gay’s responsibilities include driving Office Images’ growth by identifying and propelling new business opportunities, building and maintaining client relationships and expanding the company’s market presence in Jacksonville and beyond with an emphasis on hospitality spaces.

“We are thrilled to welcome Brooke to our passionate and knowledgeable team,”

said Office Images Market President Madelen Salter. “Office Images is innovating the next generation of workspaces and social spaces, and Brooke brings a skillful understanding of the industry to our dealership. She is dedicated to transforming environments to life with integrity while delivering an exceptional client experience.”

Gay joins Office Images with more than 10 years of experience in the design and furniture industry. She takes a collaborative and personalized approach to every project, building and nurturing strong, lasting relationships with clients, partners and stakeholders, while developing innovative solutions that enhance value and support growth. Gay earned a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and Operational Management from the University of North Texas.

Photography:

Brooke Dovie Gay, Business Development Manager, Office Images

About Office Images

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JEA, FSCJ Invite Drivers to Test Drive EVs at First Coast Electrathon Sept. 13

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

JEA and Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) will host a free electric vehicle (EV) car show and race at FSCJ Cecil Center on Sept. 13. The family-friendly event will offer EV test drives, an EV car show and a First Coast Electrathon Race.

The event allows current and prospective EVs owners to see and drive the newest cars and talk to local EV owners about what it is like to drive an electric vehicle in Jacksonville.

See and test drive the latest EVs, including: BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Honda, Mini, Tesla, Vinfast, Volkswagen and Volvo.
Meet local EV drivers and learn about the benefits of going electric.
Watch Electrathon drivers race around the FSCJ commercial vehicle training track.
Learn about JEA’s off-peak charging incentive for EV owners.
Learn how FSCJ is preparing Northeast Florida’s future workforce.

JEA is hosting the event along with FSCJ, First Coast Electrathon, North Florida Transportation Planning Organization and the North Florida Clean Fuels Coalition. Electrathon races feature custom-built EVs with 1kWh batteries that compete for the maximum distance traveled in one-hour.

When: 9:15 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 | Rain date: Oct. 25, 2025
Where: FSCJ Cecil Center, 5640 POW-MIA Memorial Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32221
RSVP: No entry fee; RSVP requested
More info: Visit JEADriveElectric.com to learn more about JEA Drive Electric.

For media use: Photos

About FSCJ
Known as “the community’s college,” Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) exists to provide equitable, high quality, success-driven learning experiences for our diverse community of students. Serving more than 45,000 students and awarding nearly 4,000 degrees and certificates on an annual basis, the College plays a significant role in supplying the region’s employers with a highly skilled, educated workforce.

Community Invited to 15 Free, Family-Friendly Events During August at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Programming includes wellness classes, family playdates, cultural events and back-to-school celebrations

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 7, 2025) – Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park will continue to offer free, family-friendly community programming for all ages in August, including special back-to-school events. From family wellness activities to back-to-school celebrations, the Vibrant Places Collective, a community-led group of historians, LaVilla natives and community leaders, invites people of all ages to connect, move and recharge at 120 Lee Street.

“We consider this park to be a sacred space, and we invite the community out to gather, as you would at family reunions during the summer,” said Carla Jones, Jacksonville Black history storyteller and facilitator for the Vibrant Places Collective. “There’s something for everyone, celebrating all ages. We have a pure-water mister, shade trees and vendors selling frozen treats so you can comfortably enjoy yourself outside.”

The August lineup features two new special events:

STEM in the Park with The ScienceSIS Foundation
Sat., Aug. 16, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
“STEM & Stillness: Rise + Shine in the Park” is a 90-minute, family-focused event hosted by The ScienceSIS Foundation. Designed to help students in kindergarten through eighth grade prepare for the new school year, the event combines mindful movement, breathing exercises and body-based STEM learning in a calm, welcoming environment rooted in wellness and confidence building.
LIT on the Lawn
Sun., Aug. 24, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Led by the University of Phoenix Jacksonville Alumni Chapter in partnership with Ebri Education, this joyful literacy event encourages families to bring their own books, picnic blankets and lawn chairs for an afternoon of reading and learning in the park. The theme for the event is “BYOB – Bring Your Own Book.”

In addition to these special activations, the park offers free events each week throughout the month, including:

Senior Fit Series, designed for ev’ry body and especially focused on those with limited mobility or interested in a low-impact fitness experience – Chair Yoga and Music & Motion (Tuesdays at 10 a.m.)
Ev’ryBody Yoga, featuring different certified instructors each week leading participants through a variety of forms of flow and meditation. Bring your own mat! (Thursdays at 6 p.m.)
Lift Ev’ry Voice Heritage Tour with Yollie, a guided walking tour celebrating James Weldon Johnson, educator, activist, and author of the Black National Anthem. The tour weaves storytelling, music and history through key LaVilla landmarks, honoring Johnson’s legacy and the resilience of Jacksonville’s African American community. Suitable for all ages. (Held every first Saturday at 10 a.m.)
The Playdate, a joyful blend of movement, connection and healing for families that promotes both physical and mental wellness through play. The August 9 Playdate will feature a back-to-school supply drive for students and teachers. Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/theplaydatejax/ (Held every second Saturday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
Walk & HIIT with Body Precepts, a fun, energizing 3-mile walk with HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) checkpoints designed for every fitness level that is sure to get your blood pumping! (Held every last Saturday of the month at 7 a.m.)
Line Dancing Class with Jazzco, learning popular urban line dances like Boots on the Ground, the Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle and more in this high-energy, all-ages workshop (Held every last Saturday of the month at 10 a.m.)
Sunday Funday Market, a downtown experience for families, friends, neighbors and shoppers. Each month features music, games, food and vendors offering everything from apparel to personal care and cultural goods. (Held every third Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.)

The Vibrant Places Collective is a community-led group that curates exciting, inclusive programming every week at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park in the historic LaVilla neighborhood of Jacksonville, Florida. The Collective is made up of historians, LaVilla natives and community leaders who have a connection to the park and the song. They are focused on honoring LaVilla’s history while celebrating its vibrant future, by lifting up local entrepreneurs, educators, and activators who bring the Park’s vision to life. Events are designed for ev’ryone, with a special focus on welcoming those who live, work, and play in LaVilla–including the neighbors and families who’ve called LaVilla home for generations. From yoga and line dancing to fitness classes and music festivals, all Collective-supported activities are free and open to the public.

For a full list of events and registration details, visit levsparkjax.org/events.

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About Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park

Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park is a City of Jacksonville public park that incorporates elements of the Johnson brothers’ and LaVilla’s cultural and built history while making space for a more inclusive future. The park was designed by world-renowned MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant” recipient Walter Hood and officially rededicated to the community in summer 2024. Visit levsparkjax.org and follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook to learn more.

Hilton Jacksonville at Mayo Clinic Set to Debut October 2025 Offering a Modern, Coastal Take on Hospitality in Northeast Florida

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, FL (August, 2025) — Something exciting is taking shape on Transformation Way. Slated to open in October 2025, Hilton Jacksonville at Mayo Clinic is gearing up to become one of Northeast Florida’s most anticipated hotel openings, a sophisticated escape offering world-class service with relaxing coastal charm.

Just minutes from Jacksonville’s sun-drenched beaches, championship golf courses, and vibrant cultural attractions, the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in Jacksonville will feature eight stories and 252 guest rooms, spanning over 184,000 square feet. The property will welcome leisure travelers, corporate guests, wellness seekers, visiting families, and everyone in between. The hotel will be managed by Concord Hospitality, an award-winning hotel management company known for its high-touch service and partnership with leading hospitality brands.

Guests can expect a full-service experience with standout amenities including:

21 spacious suites
More than 21,000 square feet of event space, including a grand pillarless ballroom, junior ballroom, boardrooms, and a spectacular 5,000 square feet outdoor event lawn overlooking serene water
Resort-style outdoor heated pool and a covered outdoor terrace surrounded by lush landscaping
24-hour expansive fitness center
Coastal Kitchen, the hotel’s signature restaurant that makes use of locally sourced and organic ingredients to support its wellness-focused menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings centered on fresh seafood, artisanal pizzas, seasonal salads, and premium steaks.
A sleek coffee shop in the lobby, offering smoothies, locally sourced coffee, and grab-and-go breakfast and lunch items
Full room service, offering guests comfort and quality any time of day

Inspired by the landscape of trees and tranquil ponds, the hotel’s design by DLR Group uses warm textures, glass, and clean modern lines to reflect the area’s natural beauty while delivering a refined, peaceful guest experience.

Hilton Jacksonville at Mayo Clinic is located at 4745 Transformation Way, Jacksonville, FL 32224. For more information, visit hilton.com. For reservations, call + 904 929 9000, or email jaxmo_hotel@hilton.com.

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About Hilton Hotels & Resorts??

For over a century, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the globe, connecting people, cultures and communities. Offering striking design and vibrant communal spaces—from buzzing lobbies to lively bars, best-in-class restaurants, and iconic event venues— Hilton Hotels & Resorts is the place to see and be seen in the world’s most sought-after destinations. With more than 600 hotels in nearly 100 countries, Hilton Hotels & Resorts is where the world comes together, and travelers are masterfully hosted with expertise and care. Experience a legendary stay at Hilton Hotels & Resorts by booking at hiltonhotels.com or through the industry leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/hhr, and follow the brand on Facebook, X and Instagram.

ABOUT CONCORD HOSPITALITY

Concord Hospitality is an award-winning hotel development and management company that has grown over the past three decades to become the preferred partner of leading hotel brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt. Concord Hospitality boasts a stellar reputation known for combining the experience of a big company with the high-touch service of an independent operation to every partner property. The company specializes in developing and managing full-service and select-service hotels across North America. As part of the company’s continued growth, it recently launched Opus Collection by Concord, a lifestyle hotel management division for full-service properties. With the brightest talent, the most innovative processes, and a commitment to giving back to the communities where associates live and work, Concord Hospitality is committed to being a great place to work for all. Learn more at concordhotels.com.

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Media Contacts:

Carli Brinkman, CB@CarliPR.com, 561.308.3683

Erica Badgley, Erica@carlipr.com, 908.656.1977?

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Celebrates “45 Years of Caring and Compassion” with Release of 2024 Community Report

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Michelle Cardinal, Public Relations

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Cell: 904.477.4103

E-Mail: mcardinal@communityhospice.com

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Celebrates “45 Years of Caring and Compassion” with Release of 2024 Community Report

August 12, 2025 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – Community Hospice & Palliative Care is proud to announce the release of its 2024 Community Report, themed “45 Years of Caring and Compassion.” This milestone publication honors the organization’s enduring legacy of service to Northeast and North Central Florida, reflecting on the journey that began in 1979 with a mission to provide comfort, dignity, and support to patients and their families facing serious illness.

Marking nearly half a century of service, the 2024 report highlights the stories, achievements, and impact that have shaped Community Hospice & Palliative Care into a trusted and compassionate resource for patients and their loved ones. From its grassroots beginnings to its current role as a regional leader in hospice, palliative, and advanced illness care, the organization remains deeply committed to meeting the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

“This year’s report is a celebration of the thousands of lives touched by the care we provide and a tribute to the team members, volunteers, and supporters who have helped build this legacy,” said Phillip Ward, President and CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. “For 45 years, our mission has remained steadfast: to serve with compassion, honor life, and offer hope. This report is both a reflection of where we’ve been and a promise of what’s still to come.”

The 2024 Community Report offers a look back at significant milestones over the past 45 years, highlighting the organization’s innovative programs and community partnerships, as well as a snapshot of the impact made in 2024 across all service areas.

To explore the full 2024 Community Hospice & Palliative Care Community Report, please visit www.CommunityHospice.com.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,500 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com.

Jacksonville History Center Names Courtney Gumbinger to Board, Expands Archive Staff

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Contact: Kate Hallock Chief of Staff / Communications Director Jacksonville History Center (904) 665-0064 communications@jaxhistory.org

For Immediate Release

Jacksonville History Center Names Courtney Gumbinger to Board, Expands Archive Staff

Jacksonville, FL, August 13, 2025 – The Jacksonville History Center announces the appointment of Courtney Gumbinger to its Board of Directors, as of July 15, 2025. Gumbinger joins 11 other directors and will be eligible to serve three consecutive 3-year terms.

Gumbinger has served as Visit Jacksonville’s Director of Destination Experience for the past four years and has previously held event positions with the Hyatt Regency, Baptist Health, and Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts – all of which add to the depth of experience sought by the Jacksonville History Center as it undertakes to design, fabricate and market Jacksonville’s next heritage tourism destination. Gumbinger holds a Bachelor of Arts in hospitality and event management from the University of Florida and is a certified meeting professional and certified hospitality supervisor.

“As the JHC develops its downtown destination campus, it is important to have board representation from the visitor and travel industry,” said Alan J. Bliss, CEO, Jacksonville History Center. “During the years ahead, we will be doing ambitious things, and we are fortunate to have Ms. Gumbinger with us in our work.”

The JHC has also expanded its archive staff, promoting Erin Mustard to head archivist, and hiring two new staff. Mustard, who joined the organization in April 2024, holds several

degrees, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English literature, as well as a Master of Information from Rutgers University. Shawn Stermer, a May 2025 graduate of the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in history, has been hired as Research and Reference Archivist. Joel Cordova, also a May 2025 UNF graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in Digital Humanities, serves as the company’s Digital Collections Archivist.

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The Jacksonville History Center, established in 1929, serves the public by maintaining an archival repository of documents, photographs, rare books and architectural artifacts relating to Jacksonville-area history. With offices located in the Old St. Luke’s Hospital and the newly renovated former Florida Casket Company buildings on Palmetto Street, the nonprofit raises funds for the restoration of local landmarks, provides speakers on a variety of Jacksonville history topics, and leads walking tours, among many other activities.

The Jacksonville History Center is located in the Sports & Entertainment District and is composed of four historic structures – Old St. Luke’s Hospital, Old St. Andrew’s Church, the James E. Merrill House Museum, and the Florida Casket Company Building. The Jacksonville History Center will be curated against the backdrop of Jacksonville’s diverse history, a world class archive, and a growing collection of the region’s historical artifacts. The center will be a local educational destination, a unique and engaging special events venue, and a must-experience cultural attraction for visitors to the region.

Jumbo Shrimp single-game playoff tickets on sale today

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, August 11, 2025

Jumbo Shrimp single-game playoff tickets on sale today

Jacksonville hosting first playoff games in 11 years with best-of-three ILCS

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With Jacksonville gearing up for its first home playoff baseball games in 11 years, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are rolling out single-game tickets for the International League Championship Series. Tickets for Game 1 and Game 2 of the ILCS are on sale today.

As International League First Half Champions, the Jumbo Shrimp have earned home field advantage for the International League Championship Series. The 2025 regular season concludes on Sunday, September 21, and following an off day on September 22, the Jumbo Shrimp will host the winner of the IL’s second half. Game 1 is slated for Tuesday, September 23, with Game 2 following on Wednesday, September 24. If necessary, Game 3 will be played on Thursday, September 25.

Fans may purchase single-game tickets by calling the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or online at www.jaxshrimp.com.

Jumbo Shrimp ticket pricing (includes all taxes and fees) is as follows:

PNC Bank Home Plate Club (PNC1-PNC4): $129 per ticket *Includes all-inclusive food & beverage experience in brand-new PNC Bank Home Plate Club with domestic beer and house wine

Wheelhouse Captain's Chairs (Wheelhouse front row): $46.01 per ticket *Includes $15 loaded value credit

VyStar Crustacean Corner: $39 per ticket *Swivel seat; Includes $10 loaded value credit

Dugout Reserved (Sections 102-113): $25 per ticket

Field Reserved (Sections 101, 114-117): $21.01 per ticket

Power Alley: $19 per ticket

Outfield Reserved (Sections 118-120): $11 per ticket

General Admission (Primrose Little Sluggers Lawn): $9 per ticket

Military Dugout Reserved (Sections 102-113): $15 per ticket * Must purchase online via this link with validation from ID.me

Military Field Reserved (Sections 101, 114-117): $11 per ticket * Must purchase online via this link with validation from ID.me

This will mark the 24th postseason appearance in Jacksonville’s Triple-A (1962-68, 2021-present)/Double-A era (1970-2020). Should the Jumbo Shrimp win the ILCS, they would advance to play the winner of the Pacific Coast Championship Series in a winner-take-all single-game Triple-A National Championship, played at Las Vegas Ballpark on Saturday, September 27. The Las Vegas Aviators (Triple-A, Athletics) clinched the Pacific Coast League First Half Championship.

Jacksonville’s last trip to the postseason came in 2017, when the Jumbo Shrimp were members of the Double-A Southern League. The Jumbo Shrimp were swept 3-0 by the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, then an affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, but now the Miami Marlins’ Double-A affiliate. Jacksonville went from the Marlins’ Double-A affiliate to their Triple-A affiliate upon rejoining Triple-A in 2021.

Jacksonville has won seven league championships in the city’s Triple-A/Double-A era (1962-present). The 1968 Jacksonville Suns won the International League, the city’s final year in Triple-A until 2021. The Double-A Suns won Southern League titles in 1996, 2001, 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2014.

MONEY PAGES EXPANDING TO OCALA AND THE VILLAGES

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Local entrepreneurs Steve and Jackie Hinzman to launch Money Pages Ocala in September

Ocala, FL (August 7, 2025) – Money Pages is expanding to Ocala and The Villages, through a new franchise partnership with fellow direct mail expert Steve Hinzman. Through this new partnership with Hinzman and his wife Jackie, their brand and magazine PaperNet Media will become Money Pages Ocala.

The move is the next phase of the evolution of the Hinzmans’ 12-year business relationship with Money Pages. They worked with Money Pages to expand their established local magazine’s digital efforts. As the business continued to grow and the relationship strengthened, the Hinzmans decided to fully join the brand as Money Pages of Ocala. This will bring even greater value and reach to Ocala, The Villages and surrounding communities.

The Hinzmans serve 145,000 households with PaperNet Media, strengthening the Ocalaeconomy through direct mail and digital advertising. While he’s worked with Money Pages on the digital side, Steve has admired the products, especially the new app that Money Pages offers. Steve is eager to work more closely with Money Pages founder Alan Worley and his team to incorporate all of those assets for the Ocala business community.

“I’m excited about what Money Pages can do for local businesses and residents. We’ve been serving our hometown for 42 years. This partnership allows us to do it better,” Steve Hinzman said. “Ocala and The Villages are growing, we are committed to growing with them, and this expanded partnership allows us to do that.”

The transition to Money Pages of Ocala means expanded opportunities for local businesses to connect with residents through Money Pages’ powerful combination of direct mail, digital marketing, and community-driven content. With a proven track record and a team known for its longevity and expertise, Money Pages brings an unmatched level of support to both franchises and the businesses they serve.

“When we’re looking to add a franchise, we’re really looking for two things: the right partner and the right location,” Money Pages CEO Alan Worley said. “This one is really an easy decision for us. We know the Hinzmans and their commitment to the community – we’ve worked with them for 12 years and seen them in action. And it’s no secret that the area including Ocala and The Villages is one of the fastest growing in Florida. This next step will benefit everyone, especially residents in Ocala and The Villages.”

Money Pages of Ocala’s first issue is set to reach homes in September, continuing Steve and Jackie’s mission to provide valuable savings and advertising solutions to the local community.

About Money Pages:

Founded in 2001, Money Pages is a multimedia company helping communities save money and local businesses grow. Our team has extensive experience in magazine publishing, direct mail, digital marketing and branding. Our complete marketing system provides advertisers with integrated fulfillment to promote their businesses with multiple marketing channels. The company is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, and now has franchises across the state and the Southeast.

Contact:

Matt Galnor

Bachman Galnor Communications

Matt@bachmangalnor.com

(904) 472-4196

Announcement - Prestige Workforce Celebrates 8th Anniversary

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Prestige Workforce, a leading disability employment agency, is proud to celebrate its 8th anniversary on August 15, 2025. Since our founding in 2017, we have successfully placed hundreds of individuals with disabilities into meaningful careers. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a vendor for the State of Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation program, our mission is to provide professional job placement to individuals facing employment barriers while simultaneously assisting community employers in increasing revenue and productivity with our skilled clients. We aim to build partnerships with exceptional companies to fill their vacancies with motivated, dependable, and reliable candidates, emphasizing the importance of work quality and skill recognition. At Prestige Workforce, we endeavor to develop top-tier applicants by utilizing their existing transferable skills and enhancing those talents for more successful and long-lasting employment outcomes.

We would like to partner with local Jacksonville hiring managers and recruiters to facilitate employment opportunities for our deserving clients. It is important to note that our services are provided at no cost to you. Additionally, employers may benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, a federal program offering tax credits for hiring individuals from specific target groups who have faced employment barriers, including people with disabilities. Our CEO, Jada Williams, was recently recognized as one of the Top 20 Under 40 by Florida Black Excellence, and this year, we have observed a fifty percent increase in referrals in Jacksonville. Ms. Williams is also a proud graduate of the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center Entrepreneur Certificate Program and the Jax Bridges program.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our loyal clients, dedicated employees, and supportive partners who have been with us every step of the way. We invite you to partner with us to help place deserving individuals into rewarding employment.

Website: www.prestigeworkforce.org

Phone: 904-613-1691

Email: jada@prestigeworkforce.org

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Receives National Hospice Honors ELITE Award

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Michelle Cardinal, Public Relations

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Cell: 904.477.4103

E-Mail: mcardinal@communityhospice.com

Community Hospice & Palliative Care Receives National Hospice Honors ELITE Award

Only Hospice in Florida to Earn Top Distinction for Quality of Care and Experience

August 6, 2025 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – Community Hospice & Palliative Care has been awarded the prestigious Hospice Honors ELITE distinction by MatrixCare, a national leader in hospice quality measurement and caregiver experience reporting. This recognition places Community Hospice among the top two percent of hospice providers nationwide for excellence in patient and family satisfaction. It makes it the only hospice in the state of Florida to receive the ELITE designation.

“This recognition affirms what we already know to be true: the care we provide is among the very best in the nation,” added Phillip Ward, CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. “It’s a testament to the dedication of every team member, from bedside to back office, who ensures that patients and families feel supported, respected, and comforted throughout their hospice journey.”

The Hospice Honors ELITE award is presented annually to hospice agencies that consistently perform above the national average in every measured category of patient and caregiver experience. The honor reflects not only clinical excellence but also the compassion, professionalism, and commitment demonstrated by the entire Community Hospice team.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care, a program of Alivia Care, Inc., has served nearly 220,000 adults and children throughout Northeast and North Central Florida. For over four decades, it has provided compassionate, expert care to individuals with advanced illness, ensuring dignity and support at every stage of life.

For more information about Community Hospice & Palliative Care and its services, visit www.communityhospice.com.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,500 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com

New homes take root at Turnleaf with Builder lineup, model reveal

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

GREENPOINTE HOLDINGS PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

COMPANY CONTACT: Gaynelle James (904) 996-2485 or gjames@GreenPointeLLC.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New homes take root at Turnleaf with Builder lineup, model reveal

Sales are now underway at a new master-planned destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (Aug. 6, 2025) – GreenPointe Holdings proudly announces sales are underway at Turnleaf, a new master-planned destination located just minutes from the expansive beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Turnleaf’s premier builder lineup features three of the region’s most respected homebuilders: Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Perry Homes.

“We are pleased to collaborate with this exceptional team of builders to shape the future of Turnleaf,” said Jim McGowan, Regional President, West Coast Florida, GreenPointe Developers, the master-plan community and urban development division of GreenPointe Holdings. “These builders are among the best in southwest Florida, and we are proud to have them bring their craftsmanship, innovation, and decades of expertise to our amenity-rich community.”

Turnleaf features a diverse selection of single-family homes on 40’, 50’ and 60’ homesites, thoughtfully designed with modern architecture, open-concept layouts and energy efficient features. Dream Finders Homes presents seven floor plans at Turnleaf ranging from 1,657 square feet to more than 2,699 square feet. Dream Finders model homes, Florence and Ravenna II, are expected to be completed mid-August.

Lennar at Turnleaf showcases the builder’s signature Everything's Included® program, where the homebuilder's most popular features and finishes are included at no additional cost. Homebuyers can choose from 14 floor plans ranging from 1,263 square feet to more than 3,800 square feet. Three model homes are currently open and ready for tours.

Perry Homes at Turnleaf offers a selection of well-appointed homes featuring quality standard features and thoughtful design elements in every home. Perry Homes is building 25 plans at Turnleaf, ranging from 2,011 square feet to more than 3,600 square feet. Two model homes are currently under construction.

New homes at Turnleaf are priced from the $300s, offering exceptional value in a well-designed master-planned setting. Construction will begin this year on Turnleaf’s resort-style amenities created to elevate everyday living. Planned amenities include a 5,500-square-foot Amenity Center with sparkling pool, modern fitness center, pickleball and bocce courts, yoga lawn, outdoor dining and gathering areas, a playground and winding pathways for walking, jogging and biking – all reserved for the exclusive use of community residents.

Turnleaf’s prime location offers easy access to entertainment, shopping, dining and recreation in Southwest Florida. To learn more, visit www.liveTurnleaf.com.

Artwork

Turnleaf map

About GreenPointe Holdings, LLC

MOCA Jacksonville Releases Fall Calendar Featuring Local Artists and a New Watercolor Workshop

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 6, 2025

CONTACT:

Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications & Marketing

amber.sesnick@unf.edu // 904.620.3224

The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville Releases Fall Calendar

Featuring Local Artists, a New Watercolor Workshop, and an Independent Filmmaking Series

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville, a cultural institute of the University of North Florida, announces its fall season of programs and exhibitions. The museum’s calendar features an emphasis on local art and artists and showcases Jacksonville’s place in the larger world of contemporary art. Programs have expanded with a new watercolor workshop, Watercolor Flow, led by local artist and educator Teresa Cook and IndieJAX, a local independent filmmaker screening series presented in collaboration with the Jacksonville Film and Television Office. On October 18, MOCA invites the community to its Fall Arts Celebration, a brunch-style event dedicated to all the new and current exhibitions as well as the announcement of the Jax Contemporary Arts Triennial Award winners. Find details and a full list of programs and exhibitions below.

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS:

Ideas of Our Time: Robert Rauschenberg in Florida and the Moon Museum Aug 23 | 1 p.m.

This illustrated and insightful lecture with Jade Dellinger, Director of the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery, will explore a little-known chapter in the U.S.-Soviet Space Race and an art project unknown even to NASA astronauts. This event is presented in connection to the exhibition Honoring Robert Rauschenberg.

Ideas of Our Time: Art & Technology Roundtable with Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Michael Nardone Sep 13 | 11 a.m.

Presented in connection to Project Atrium: Spectral Subjects, this roundtable discussion is moderated by Senior Curator Ylva Rouse and features media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and professor and scholar Michael Nardone. The group will explore how artists have long subverted the intended uses of different technologies, laying bare the ethical and moral impacts of the ever-increasing digital landscape.

New Program
Watercolor Flow Sep 27, Oct 25, Nov 22, Dec 27 | 1 p.m.

Local Artist and educator Teresa Cook leads this three-hour workshop for beginner and intermediate painters covering core techniques, creative exercises, and featuring a themed painting project each month.

Fall Arts Celebration Oct 18 | 12 p.m.

Meet the Project Atrium: Muralists in Action artists, celebrate the announcement of the Jax

Contemporary Arts Triennial Awards, and view Sebastian Vallejo: Where The Wild Zephyrs Sleep with the artist. This brunch-style opening will feature live music, light bites, and a cash bar.

Book Launch & Talk: The Armory South with Dr. P. Scott Brown Oct 29 | 7 p.m.

Join us for the launch of MOCA's newest catalog, The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman's Club Exhibition Rediscovered, which provides an in-depth view of MOCA's current exhibition by the same name. This event will begin with a presentation by guest curator and author, Dr. P. Scott Brown in MOCA's Theater, followed by a book signing.

REMAINING PROGRAMMING:

Recurring Free Access

Lobby & Project Atrium | Always free, including access to Setlan Coffee Co.
UNF & FSCJ Students, Faculty, & Staff | Always free
Library Cardholders | The last Friday of each month with a Jacksonville Public Library card
Free Military Access Presented by CSX | Every day from Armed Forces Day through Veterans Day for families of active duty and former military, plus first responders
Museum Nights @ MOCA | Every first and third Wednesday from 5-9 p.m.

Free Events During Museum Nights:

Ideas of Our Time: Jax Contemporary Artist Talks Sep 3, Oct 1, Nov 5 | 7 p.m.

Hear from the artists featured in Jax Contemporary MOCA Arts Triennial. This exhibition brings the artistic talent of Northeast Florida to the fore by celebrating the broad vitality of creative voices through the works of 64 artists working in a variety of media.

Sep 3 | Robert Dewitt Adams, d. lance vickery, Jenny Hager, and Erin Kendrick

Oct 1 | Susanne Schuenke Ph.D., Hillary Hogue, Tanner Pletzke, and Chip Southworth

Nov 5 | Yna Cruz, Laura Colomb, Holly Blanton, and Joshua Cooper

MOCA Free Movie Night | 6:30 p.m.

Sep 17 The Phoenician Scheme (2025)

Oct 15 Sinners (2025)

Nov 19 Mur Murs (1981)

IndieJAX: Local Independent Filmmaker Screening Series Dec 17 | 6:30 p.m.

In collaboration with the Jacksonville Film and Television Office, IndieJAX is a new series celebrating local filmmaking in Jacksonville. The December event will feature short films from three different artists, followed by a conversation with the filmmakers. The films will be announced later this fall, after a selection committee has chosen the finalists.

Art of the Figure

Sep 20, Oct 4 & 18, Nov 11, Dec 6 & 20 | 3 p.m.

Figure drawing workshop with local artist and educator William McMahan open to all experience levels and featuring a live model.

Artful Movement

Aug 17, Sep 21, Oct 19, Nov 16, Dec 21 | 11 a.m.

In collaboration with local non-profit Yoga 4 Change, Artful Movement is an all-levels yoga class that takes place in the galleries at MOCA Jacksonville.

Coffee with a Curator: Sebastian Vallejo with Ian Carey

Oct 4 | 11 a.m.

Enjoy drinks and snacks from Setlan Coffee and dive into the details about Sebastian Vallejo's exhibition Where The Wild Zephyrs Sleep with UNF Galleries Director Ian Carey.

Jazz in the Afternoon

Sep 7 & Dec 7 | 2 p.m.

These performances are presented in partnership with the John Lumpkin Institute and feature local musicians. Enjoy drinks from the bar, SoulFULL Eats charcuterie "Board in a Box," or treats from Setlan Coffee.

MOCA Winter Market

Nov 29 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

As a part of Shop Small Saturday, MOCA will feature local tabling artists and creators presenting a variety of unique goods.

Seize the Clay & Ceramics Open Studio

Aug 9 & 23, Sep 13 & 27, Oct 11 & 25, Nov 8 & 22, Dec 13 & 27 | 2 p.m.

Develop your hand building and glazing skills in Seize the Clay, a recurring class for artists of all abilities. Low-fire clay, tools, and basic glaze options are provided. Ceramics Open Studio is self-led and includes access to throwing wheels and kiln firing.

Studio Practice: Introduction to Film Photography with Tanner Pletzke

Sep 13 | 12 p.m.

Through straight-talk lecture and hands-on demonstrations of film photography practices, Pletzke offers MOCA students the opportunity not only to understand their film camera's functions, buttons, and levers, but to understand the magic of the chemistry and physics taking place inside the camera.

Studio Practice: Pinhole Camera Photography with Tanner Pletzke

Oct 11 | 12 p.m.

In this class, students will construct a pinhole camera. Groups will set up their cameras in the windows of the MOCA classrooms while Pletzke teaches exposure basics and explains what's happening inside. At the end of the class students will develop their negatives to reveal the shadow of the image they just took.

Studio Practice: Mixed Media Collage with Austin Lightholder, UNF AIR

Dec 13 | 12 p.m.

Participants in this workshop will work with MOCA's current Student Artist-in-Residence, Austin Lightholder, to learn about his unique collage techniques. The workshop will include instructions in simple media layering, including custom paper cutouts, photography, and incorporating paint, oil marker, and other media.

EXHIBITIONS

Project Atrium: Rafael Lozano-Hemmer Spectral Subjects

Presented by Joan and Preston Haskell

Spectral Subjects is a thermal observatory—a constantly updating map of the room’s temperature, projected in the round using state of the art thermographic cameras. The piece is a call to think of the human body as a continuum with the environment around us. Through Sep 14, 2025

Honoring Rauschenberg

We commemorate American artist Robert Rauschenberg for his 100th birthday, celebrating his expansive creativity, spirit of curiosity, and commitment to change. His artistic practice revolved around integrating “the real world” and incorporating found objects into his art. Through Sep 7, 2025

Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial

Presented by Dolf and Anna James

Jax Contemporary brings the artistic talent of Northeast Florida to the fore by celebrating the broad vitality of creative voices through the works of 64 artists working in a variety of media. Don’t forget to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award by Sep 1! Through Nov 9, 2025

The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman’s Club Exhibition Rediscovered

This exhibition reassembles core works from a seminal 1924 Modernist exhibition mounted by the Woman’s Club of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society (now MOCA). The Armory South contributes to the stories of the introduction of Modernism to the American South, the history of women in Modern art, and the ideas and relationships shaping American art in the 1920s. Through Nov 23, 2025

Sebastian Vallejo: Where The Wild Zephyrs Sleep

Art with a Heart in Healthcare: The Art of Music

Art with a Heart in Healthcare provides art experiences to support the healing process for patients and families at local hospitals. The Art of Music features guitars transformed by patients from Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital into visual interpretations of their favorite songs. Sep 14, 2025 – Jan 11, 2026

Project Atrium: Muralists in Action

Whitney Oldenburg: left behind

Whitney Oldenburg’s work explores the boundary between subject and object, unraveling the reciprocal relationship between humans and materials. She is interested in how we form attachments to material things—not only to their functions, but the way they alleviate, fit in, or make sense of our lives—and how objects, in turn, become symbolic. Nov 20, 2025 – Apr 19, 2026

Photography in the MOCA Collection

Tracing an historical arc, this exhibition explores groundbreaking contributions to photography by artists in the early 20th century, such as Imogene Cunningham and Edward Weston, as well as other defining decades in the history of the medium through to our time when digital formats and computer enhanced images have become the norm. Dec 6, 2025 – Jul 5, 2026

MEDIA PORTAL

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/p8szug3ke2n7px4u4f8wl/AB2NZ0REDPXo6yeD_hW--Ys?rlkey=88nokyqu649o0tyolm8lxszrj&st=gr20kr8l&dl=0

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

###

EMILY BAILEY (she/her)

COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

W: 904-620-5624 // e.bailey@unf.edu

MOCA JACKSONVILLE

University of North Florida

333 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202

Follow @mocajax

MOCAJACKSONVILLE.UNF.EDU

Jacksonville Symphony Hires New Flutist

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Jacksonville Symphony Hires New Flutist

What: The Jacksonville Symphony announces Sophia Jean as Second Flute/Piccolo for the upcoming 2025/26 Season.

Bio: Sophia Jean is a flutist and recent graduate of the Yale School of Music, where she studied with Tara Helen O’Connor. She has performed with the New York Philharmonic, Virginia Symphony, Albany Symphony, New World Symphony and West Point Band. Festival appearances include fellowships at Music Academy of the West, Aspen Music Festival and Kent Blossom.

A prizewinner in numerous competitions, Sophia won first place in the 2024 NFA Young Artist Competition, earning the Paul Taub Award for best performance of the commissioned work. She also received top prizes from the Chicago Flute Club and honorable mention in the 2024 Sphinx SOPA Competition. Sophia holds a dual degree in Flute Performance and Cognitive Science from Northwestern University and was awarded Yale’s Daniel Nyfenger Prize for excellence in woodwind playing. She is also an active teaching artist and arts advocate.

For more information about the 2025/26 Season and to view the full list of the Jacksonville Symphony’s musicians, visit JaxSymphony.org.

###

Media Contact:
Savannah Silliman

Marketing and Public Relations Manager
Jacksonville Symphony
904.356.0426
ssilliman@jaxsymphony.com

North Florida Land Trust Recognized as a Top Workplace in Florida

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kelly White, (904) 616-8754, kelly@kwhitecommunications.com

North Florida Land Trust Recognized as a Top Workplace in Florida

The nonprofit land conservation organization was chosen by Florida Trend for inclusion on its Best Companies to Work For In Florida List

Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 4, 2025 – North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) was recently named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For by Florida Trend magazine. The annual list, featured in the August issue, ranks companies in small, medium, and large employer categories. NFLT ranked ninth out of 36 in the Best Small Companies category. The nonprofit land conservation organization, which has 18 employees and two consultants, has been operating in Florida since 1999.

“We all work hard here, together in what we call a posse, with passion and dedication,” said Allison DeFoor, president and CEO of NFLT. “It is an honor that the workplace we have created together is recognized by Florida’s #1 business journal. We are humbled as we return to our work.”

NFLT underwent an evaluation of workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. NFLT leadership completed an in-depth questionnaire about the nonprofit’s practices, programs, employee benefits, policies, and population statistics. Employees were then asked to participate in a survey, which included questions about their experience, job satisfaction, workplace culture, and other topics. NFLT was required to have at least an 80 percent employee response rate, but they exceeded that with 100 percent participation from staff. Florida Trend used combined scores from the questionnaire and the surveys to determine the final ranking.

“Our annual ‘Best Companies To Work For In Florida’ program once again shows what sets the state’s best employers apart from others — and it’s not paychecks or profit margins,” says Florida Trend Executive Editor Amy Keller. “While those help, of course, the best companies invest in people and find creative ways to motivate and reward employees and help them grow. They’re also purposeful about creating a great culture. These employers find ways to encourage connection and camaraderie — and they also prioritize giving back to their communities, understanding that it can have a profound impact on morale. Their examples offer an excellent roadmap for companies seeking to differentiate themselves from the competition.”

“Always a step ahead… this year’s group of Best Companies To Work For In Florida stand out among their competition,” says Florida Trend Publisher David Denor. “Dynamic thinkers, creative and inspiring in their actions, and enterprising in their industries – these companies recruit, retain and deliver distinctive workplace environments and employee benefits plans to keep their staff engaged, involved and constantly collaborating. These organizations deliver a glimpse into future workforce and workplace environments.”

The Best Companies To Work For In Florida program is managed by Florida Trend and Workforce Research Group and is endorsed by the HR Florida State Council. Workforce Research Group managed the registration, survey and analysis and determined the final rankings. For a list of the Best Companies To Work For In Florida, go to FloridaTrend.com/BestCompanies.

About North Florida Land Trust

North Florida Land Trust is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life by protecting North Florida's irreplaceable natural environment. Founded in 1999, NFLT has preserved tens of thousands of acres of land through the donation or purchase of land as well as conservation easements. NFLT is funded largely by private and corporate contributions and works closely with willing landowners and public agencies at all levels of government, not-for-profit partners, and foundations. For more information, visit nflt.org.

About Florida Trend

Florida Trend business magazine is read by 292,000 influential business executives, civic leaders and government officials each month. Its award-winning reporting covers regional and statewide business news, industry executives and the business sectors they represent, as well as information on Florida's lifestyle, arts and culture scene. FloridaTrend.com offers eNews alerts, covering daily morning and afternoon breaking news; Business Beat, a weekly video newscast highlighting Florida’s top business news stories; and weekly eNewsletters providing information, insight and details on Florida's growing industry sectors including health care, education, real estate, small business and movers and influencers. FloridaTrend.com attracts nearly a million pageviews and over 140,000 unique visitors each month.

About Workforce Research Group

Workforce Research Group (WRG) works with partners worldwide to establish and manage “Best Places to Work,” “Best Companies” and “Best Employers” programs. Through its thorough workplace assessment, utilizing employer questionnaires and employee-satisfaction surveys, WRG identifies and recognizes companies that have been successful in creating and maintaining workplace excellence. For more information, visit www.WorkforceRG.com.

GuideWell appoints Brian D. Pieninck president & CEO

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GuideWell appoints Brian D. Pieninck president & CEO

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – [August 4, 2025] – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation has appointed Brian D.?Pieninck as its next president and chief executive officer (CEO), effective Oct.?1. Currently president and CEO of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield and Board Chair of the

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Board of Directors, in his new role Pieninck will also lead Florida Blue, GuideWell’s largest subsidiary and oversee the strategic direction and performance of all GuideWell subsidiaries including Triple-S Management, the Blue Cross Blue Shield plan in Puerto Rico.

Pieninck succeeds Pat Geraghty, who announced in March that he will retire from GuideWell and Florida Blue after 14 years during which the enterprise evolved from an $8 billion health insurance company into a $32?billion Fortune 500 health solutions company serving more than

38?million people across all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. GuideWell’s success during Geraghty’s tenure was driven by the exceptionally strong culture and employee engagement he fostered which resulted in the company earning numerous awards, including

being certified as a Great Place to Work nationally.

Thomas G.?Kuntz, chair of the GuideWell and Florida Blue boards of directors, said, “Brian is a seasoned, visionary health care leader with strong insurance operations and technology experience who shares GuideWell’s values and commitment to helping people and communities

achieve better health. He is well-equipped to lead GuideWell through the next phase of its evolution, and to navigate the challenges of the current environment with a focus on our mission and our members. We are delighted to have him join our talented team.”

Pieninck began his tenure at CareFirst in 2015 as executive vice president of the Large Group Strategic Business Unit and became the company’s chief operating officer two years later. He has served as CareFirst’s president and CEO since 2018, leading a team of over 8,000

employees serving roughly 3.5?million lives across Maryland, the District of Columbia and portions of Virginia.

Prior to joining CareFirst, Pieninck spent 19 years in key leadership roles with Aetna Inc. In addition to chairing the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Board of Directors, he is a member of the board of the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare (CAQH), the Morgan State

University Board of Regents, the Federal Employee Program Board of Managers and multiple civic and public-service organizations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business studies and business administration from Southern New Hampshire University.

“I am deeply proud of our team and what we have accomplished,” Geraghty said. “It is my pleasure to turn the reins over to Brian Pieninck, someone I have known and worked with on the BCBSA Board and for whom I have great admiration.” Pieninck said, “At the heart of GuideWell and Florida Blue, is an impeccable legacy of member focus, innovation, community commitment, and dedication to improving health care affordability and access. I am honored to contribute to that legacy and look forward to working with the

board, leadership, and our teammates to build on Pat’s tremendous accomplishments as we advance our mission of helping people and communities achieve better health.”

About GuideWell and Florida Blue

GuideWell is a not-for-profit, mission-driven, policyholder-owned health solutions company, parent of Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida. Its subsidiaries include: Triple-S Management, Puerto Rico’s Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and a leading health care service

company on the island; GuideWell Health, a portfolio of integrated care delivery organizations providing primary and urgent care at nearly 100 medical centers and clinics in Florida; GuideWell Source which provides administrative services to federal health care programs; and

WebTPA, a market-leading administrator of self-funded employer health plans. The company holds a majority or significant interests in a range of health solutions companies including Lucet, a behavioral health care company that provides technology-enabled support to payors,

providers and health plan members.

GuideWell’s health insurance, care delivery, administrative services, and behavioral health companies serve more than 38?million people across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For additional information visit GuideWell.com and FloridaBlue.com. For details regarding the company’s community and sustainability efforts, read the GuideWell Impact Report. For the latest news and content, visit the GuideWell Newsroom, the Florida Blue Newsroom and follow GuideWell as well as Florida Blue on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.

###

ALEIZHA BATSON | Senior Regional Communications Lead, North Florida

aleizha.batson@bcbsfl.com | 904-535-8711 mobile

www.FloridaBlue.com

The Museum of Science & History Invites You to Celebrate the Legacy of Wonder and Its Bold Future Ahead

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE?

The Museum of Science & History Invites You to Celebrate the Legacy of Wonder and Its Bold Future Ahead

A Free Community Event Sponsored by VyStar Credit Union

Jacksonville, FL — The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) invites the Jacksonville community to celebrate more than eight decades of curiosity, connection, and discovery at Legacy of Wonder, a one-day event presented by VyStar Credit Union. Taking place on August 9th, from 10 AM- 4 PM, this special gathering marks a milestone moment for the Museum as it prepares to close its current location and embark on a bold new journey to build a world-class facility in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville.

Legacy of Wonder will be a vibrant celebration of the community that has shaped MOSH's mission since its founding in 1941. Guests will enjoy live music, hands-on activities, and an exclusive preview of the future Museum, which is slated to break ground in 2026 and open in 2028 along the Northbank of the St. Johns River. Through live performances and shows, exclusive activities, and a walk down memory lane, the event will highlight MOSH’s history as a beloved local institution and offer a glimpse into the next chapter of the organization’s mission and Downtown location.

“For over 84 years, The Museum of Science & History has been a place where curiosity and discovery spark lifelong learning and wonder,” said Dr. Alistair Dove, CEO of MOSH. “As we invite the community to help us celebrate the legacy of our current home, we are also looking ahead to a new era. We’re creating a whole new museum experience that will be inspiring, adventurous fun for the curious of all ages and a community cultural hub for the first coast region.”

The new Museum will nearly triple MOSH’s visitation capacity and create over seven acres of immersive, indoor-outdoor learning experiences. Blending science, history, and the natural environment, the future facility will redefine what a museum can be, offering spaces to learn, gather, and grow together. It will also serve as a central pillar in the revitalization of Jacksonville’s Northbank, alongside other major developments such as the Stadium of the Future, Four Seasons Hotel, and the Emerald Trail.

“As both a proud supporter of MOSH and a believer in the power of community-driven transformation, VyStar is honored to be the presenting sponsor of Legacy of Wonder,” said Brian Wolfburg, MOSH Board Member and President and CEO of VyStar Credit Union. “This event is a celebration of all that MOSH has meant to Jacksonville and a powerful look forward at what’s possible when we invest in education, culture, and connection. VyStar is a committed partner to the next chapter for a museum that has inspired generations.”

The Legacy of Wonder event also kicks off VyStar’s “Good is Everywhere” celebration, which will provide free experiences and community partnerships throughout the month of September. As the Museum prepares to close its doors at 1025 Museum Circle by September 1, 2025, it will continue serving the public through pop-up events, mobile educational programs, and collaborative activations across Northeast Florida. Legacy of Wonder offers the perfect opportunity for longtime supporters and first-time visitors alike to be part of this pivotal moment in MOSH’s story.

For more information and to RSVP for this free community celebration, visit themosh.org (Legacy of Wonder: A Community Celebration – Sponsored by VyStar | Jacksonville's Museum of Science and History.)

About The Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Learn more at www.themosh.org.

Museum funding is made possible by the generosity of our donors and corporate partners, as well as support from the City of Jacksonville and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Inc.; State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; and the National Endowment for the Arts; Historic Museums Grants-in-Aid Program assistance provided by the Bureau of Historical Museums, Division of Historical Resources, Florida Department of State, Secretary of State.

About VyStar Credit Union:

VyStar Credit Union is the second-largest credit union headquartered in Florida, with 78 full-service branches across Florida and Georgia, 1 million members and assets of over $14 billion. VyStar is the top mortgage lender in Northeast Florida and a major employer in the region with over 2,300 employees across the communities it serves. VyStar membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the 49 contiguous counties of Central to North Florida, 29 Georgia counties, and past and present military members and their families all over the world. VyStar members have access to 55,000 surcharge free ATMs worldwide. For more information, visit vystarcu.org, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.

Superior Construction Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Superior Construction Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Brian Ellison Named VP of Technology Services, Sarah Lewis Promoted to Corporate Controller

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (August 4, 2025) — Superior Construction has announced two key leadership appointments that reflect the company's dual commitment to attracting industry-leading talent and developing employees from within. The heavy civil construction company has named technology veteran Brian Ellison as Vice President of Technology Services and promoted Sarah Lewis to Corporate Controller.

Ellison Brings Three Decades of Tech Leadership Experience

Ellison joins Superior from Stellar, where he served as Chief Information Officer for 10 years. Drawing on his 30 years of experience, he will spearhead digital transformation initiatives and long-term tech strategy.

"What drew me to Superior is the opportunity to apply technology in ways that truly move the needle for the business," Ellison said. "The company's growth has created new demands for smarter systems, better integration, and more informed decision-making."

Ellison will focus on improving system interoperability, breaking down data silos, and implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency. He plans to leverage artificial intelligence for hazard identification, incorporate virtual and augmented reality into safety training, and integrate cybersecurity awareness into Superior's safety culture.

"There's a wealth of knowledge across this company," Ellison explained. "My goal is to help capture that expertise and move it into systems where everyone can benefit from it as we continue to grow."

Lewis Advances to Senior Leadership After Seven-Year Journey

Lewis's promotion to Corporate Controller marks a milestone in her seven-year journey from intern to senior leadership. Since joining in 2018, Lewis has held multiple positions in the accounting department, bringing a comprehensive operational understanding to her new role.

As Corporate Controller, Lewis will oversee the company's Work in Progress reports, which track revenue, costs and profit margins throughout each project's lifecycle.

"I've worked many different roles in the accounting department, so I understand what everyone on my team is doing every day," Lewis said. "I believe that without the people I work with, Superior wouldn't be where we are today."

Lewis credits her involvement with Superior Women in Construction (SWiC) with contributing to her advancement. In her new role, she plans to focus on maintaining departmental stability and ensuring the company utilizes existing talent effectively.

Superior's leaders want to continue building capacity through external recruitment and internal development. "Our success depends on having the right people in the right roles," said CEO Nick Largura. "Brian brings the deep technology expertise we need to modernize our operations. Sarah represents the best of what happens when we invest in our people's growth and development."

# # #

About Superior Construction

Superior Construction is an American family-owned and operated infrastructure contractor dedicated to providing innovative solutions with industry experts and leaders. First established in 1923 as the J Largura Company, the now fourth-generation family business evolved into Superior Construction by 1938. Throughout its history, the company’s foundation has always been building the infrastructure of America, successfully delivering projects across numerous delivery methods, with a specialty in design-build. Superior provides unique design solutions, forward-thinking technology, and a safe work environment to create the most value for clients, employees and the community. Learn more at superiorconstruction.com and follow Superior on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Media Contact:

Steven Gallo | Public Relations Representative

steven@rep-ink.com | 561-504-1657

Jumbo Shrimp “Lilo & Stitch” Family Movie Night set for September 27

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jumbo Shrimp “Lilo & Stitch” Family Movie Night set for September 27

Admission is just $1 per person with gates opening at 5 p.m. for 6 p.m. movie showing

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s next Publix Family Movie Night presented by Fun 4 First Coast Kids is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 27 at VyStar Ballpark. The club will show a screening of “Lilo & Stitch” on the high-definition video board, with admission set for just $1 per person at the gate.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Entry will be at the VyStar Ballpark Main Gate on Georgia Street, directly across from Lot P North. The ballpark’s concession stands and the Jumbo Shrimp Souvenir Store will also be open. The movie screening will begin at 6 p.m.

Movie night attendees are welcome to bring blankets for seating on the field. No chairs will be allowed on the field. However, those wishing to be seated for the movie may sit in seats in the ballpark seating bowl.

Complimentary parking for the Jumbo Shrimp “Lilo & Stitch” Publix Family Movie Night presented by Fun 4 First Coast Kids will be located in Lot P.

Please note that VyStar Ballpark is a cashless facility. Fans that bring cash can use the reverse ATM machine behind section 108 near Florida Blue Guest Services.

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Announces an Important Gift from the Estate of Helen M. and Edward W. Lane, Jr.

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Media contact:

Nan Kavanaugh

904.415.0051 (c)

nan@wearewingard.com

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Announces an Important Gift from the Estate of Helen M. and Edward W. Lane, Jr.

18 New Works of Art to go on Display August 15, 2025

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — July 30, 2025 — The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is honored to announce the gift of 18 works of art from the estate of longtime museum supporters and community philanthropists Helen M. and Edward W. Lane, Jr. The works will be on display in a dedicated installation from August 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026 before being incorporated into other collection galleries, enhancing the museum’s renowned collection of more than 5,000 objects from ancient Egypt through the present day.

The Lanes shared a passion for collecting art, from the research to the hunt to sharing works with friends and family. The bequest to the museum includes 17 paintings and one sculpture by noted 19^th- and 20^th-century American and European artists. Highlights include works by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (Dutch/British, 1863-1912), Gustave Caillebotte (French, 1848-1894), Jean Dufy (French, 1888-1964), Frederick Childe Hassam (American, 1859-1935), Robert Henri (American, 1865-1929), Marie Laurencin (French, 1885-1956), Thomas Moran (American, 1837-1926), Grandma Moses, also known as Anna Mary Robertson (American, 1860-1961), Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917), and Louis Valtat (French, 1869-1952).

“Helen and Ed have been part of the museum family since our opening in 1961,” said Kimberly S. Noble, interim George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs Director and CEO. “Their longstanding support of the Cummer Museum has been instrumental in making it Jacksonville’s landmark cultural institution, and this extraordinary gift, made possible through their estate planning, will be cherished for generations to come.”

“Mom and Dad thoroughly enjoyed acquiring and living with these paintings over many decades,” said their son, Edward. “My sisters, brother, and I are delighted that the art they so loved has found a home at the Cummer Museum.”

The couple, who had been married 56 years at the time of Ed’s passing in 2004, contributed greatly to the civic and cultural fabric of northeast Florida through their support of organizations including the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Episcopal Children’s Services, Hubbard House, I.M. Sulzbacher, Junior League, St. Johns Cathedral, Salvation Army, United Way, the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, Women’s Giving Alliance, and others.

To learn more about the Cummer Museum and its programming, please visitwww.cummermuseum.org.

###

About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens:

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens stands as a beacon of culture and inspiration in Jacksonville, Florida, proudly showcasing an impressive collection of art and stunning historically significant gardens. Founded in 1958 by the visionary Ninah Cummer, a powerful woman deeply committed to her community, the museum reflects her passion for art, gardens and education. Ninah's dream was to create a space where the beauty of fine art and nature could be appreciated and shared with all, and she succeeded in transforming her family estate into this remarkable institution. The museum boasts an exquisite collection that spans from ancient to contemporary art, including European masterpieces and American works that resonate with the spirit of the region. Complementing the art is a series of beautifully landscaped gardens along the St. Johns River that invite visitors to explore and find tranquility amidst nature’s splendor. This harmonious blend of art and nature not only enhances the visitor experience but also embodies the essence of creativity and serenity that defines the Cummer Museum, making it an essential destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. As a landmark in Jacksonville, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens not only honors Ninah Cummer's legacy but also serves as a vital cultural hub for education, creativity, and community engagement. This resonance is reflected in accolades driven by community votes, including Best Art Gallery, Best Museum and Best Place to Get Married (Folio Weekly, 2025) and Best Art Museum and Best of Bride - Runner Up (Jacksonville Magazine). It stands as a testament to the power of one woman's vision and her enduring impact on the arts in the community.

North Florida Land Trust Acquires Nearly 80 Acres of Conservation Land in Bradford County

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

North Florida Land Trust Acquires Nearly 80 Acres of Conservation Land in Bradford County

The property is located within the O2O Wildlife Corridor and in the Camp Blanding Army Compatible Use Buffer Zone

Jacksonville, Fla., July 31, 2025—North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) has expanded conservation land within the Ocala to Osceola (O2O) Wildlife Corridor by purchasing more than 79 acres in Bradford County. The land is west of the Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, and about a quarter mile from Water Oak Creek Preserve, a property of more than 1,100 acres that NFLT acquired at the end of 2024. Protecting this land will allow NFLT to increase the natural habitat for many wildlife and plant species. It will help buffer Camp Blanding and its training operations and keep it free from incompatible development in perpetuity.

“This is another conservation win for Florida and for our staff, who are leading the charge to protect the natural spaces within the O2O because it is now or never,” said Allison DeFoor, president and CEO of NFLT. “We continue to preserve the last remaining natural spaces within the O2O, acre by acre. We appreciate the landowners' willingness to sell us the property, and we will continue to work with other willing landowners to save these natural spaces.”

The nonprofit land conservation organization bought the property from Brian and Meghan Nicoletti for $757,705. Funding was provided by the Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) program and the Army Compatible Use Buffer (ACUB) program. The Nicolettis purchased the property in 2021 and had planned to build a home in the woods, but after receiving a mailer about preservation in the O2O, they decided they would like to see the land conserved with NFLT.

“Meghan and I would like to thank everyone involved in the process of preserving our forest property,” said Brian Nicoletti. “The NFLT folks will be excellent stewards so the people of the great state of Florida may rest assured that land will remain wild & free forever."

Much of the acquired property consists of forested wetlands and cypress swamps. The remainder is a mixed hardwood hammock and improved pasture. The land provides habitat for the Florida black bear, deer, turkey, and sandhill cranes, all of which have been observed on the property. Preserving the land provides ecosystem benefits, including protection against natural flooding risks from four miles of nearby Water Oak Creek and its associated floodplains, riparian areas, and wetlands. It also protects water quality and assists in maintaining groundwater recharge.

NFLT now owns the property, and the nonprofit’s stewardship department will manage and maintain the land, which could include public access to trails. NFLT plans to restore natural habitats to further improve the essential O2O Wildlife Corridor. The O2O is a 1.6-million-acre network of public and private lands connecting the Ocala and Osceola National Forests.

About North Florida Land Trust

North Florida Land Trust is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life by protecting North Florida's irreplaceable natural environment. Founded in 1999, NFLT has preserved tens of thousands of acres of land through the donation or purchase of land as well as conservation easements. NFLT is funded largely by private and corporate contributions and works closely with willing landowners and public agencies at all levels of government, not-for-profit partners, and foundations. For more information, visit nflt.org.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES FLORIDA NETWORK REALTY PRESS RELEASE

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES

FLORIDA NETWORK REALTY PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Maxine McBride at (904) 703-5326 or maxine@clockworkmarketing.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

recognized as a top workplace in Florida

Real estate company honored by Florida Trend for third year

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (July 31, 2025) – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realtyproudly announces the company was named as one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For by Florida Trend. This is the third consecutive year Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty has received the honor.

“Always a step ahead… this year’s group of Best Companies To Work For in Florida stand out among their competition,” said Florida Trend Publisher David Denor. “Dynamic thinkers, creative and inspiring in their actions, and enterprising in their industries – these companies recruit, retain and deliver distinctive workplace environments and employee benefits plans to keep their staff engaged, involved and constantly collaborating. These organizations deliver a glimpse into future workforce and workplace environments.”

The list ranks companies in small, medium and large employer categories and is featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine. The Best Companies To Work For in Florida program is managed by Florida Trend and Workforce Research Group and is endorsed by the HR Florida State Council. Workforce Research Group managed the registration, survey and analysis and determined the final rankings.

“Our company is known for its integrity, reputation and success, and also for creating a dynamic workplace environment that supports personal and professional growth,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “We value our team, and we are committed to constantly improving and enhancing our award-winning company culture.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty has received other recognition as a top employer. In addition to the Florida Trend award, the company was named one of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work on the First Coast.”

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com or FLNetworkRealty.com.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is the most dynamic and respected real estate company in Northeast Florida. Founded in 1988 by Chairperson Linda Sherrer and featuring the leadership of President Ann King, the company has a team of more than 500 real estate professionals in 11 offices serving Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Flagler and Volusia counties in Northeast Florida. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty operates a corporate relocation division, a builder sales division, a commercial division, Florida Network Property Management, Gibraltar Title Services, LLC, Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, and HomeServices Insurance.

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com, flnetworkrealty.com or call (904) 296-6400.

The Moon Museum, Art & Technology, & Local Artists Exploring the Ideas of Our Time with MOCA Jacksonville

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Moon Museum, Art & Technology, & Local Artists

Exploring the Ideas of Our Time with MOCA Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — MOCA Jacksonville, a cultural institute of the University of North Florida, announces its summer/fall season of its ongoing Ideas of Our Time lecture series featuring expert guest speakers and local artists. This free lecture series provides a forum for creative dialogue with artists, educators, and others around some of the most vital art and ideas of our time. Seating is limited, so registration is recommended for this free program series.

IDEAS OF OUR TIME: ROBERT RAUSCHENBERG & THE MOON MUSEUM

Saturday, August 23 | 1 p.m.

Join MOCA Jacksonville for a lecture on Robert Rauschenberg in Florida & The Moon Museum: Apollo XII’s Secret Art Mission, with Jade Dellinger, Director of the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery. The illustrated and insightful lecture will explore a little-known chapter in the U.S.-Soviet Space Race and an art project unknown even to NASA astronauts. This program takes place Saturday, August 23 at 1 p.m. during VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA and in coordination with the exhibition Honoring Rauschenberg, which is on view through November 2, 2025.

The "Moon Museum" was the first-ever "Space Art" object and secretly sited the drawings of Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, Forrest Myers, David Novros and John Chamberlain on the lunar surface in 1969. Bob Rauschenberg attended the Apollo XI launch and purchased his first property on Captiva Island in the late 1960's - living and working in the Sunshine State until his death in 2008. He would have turned 100 on October 22nd, 2025. At the invitation of the U.S. Department of State, Dellinger has shared his findings about this project at museums, galleries and universities in Tbilisi, Georgia; Caracas, Venezuela; Kyiv, Ukraine; Ljubljana, Slovenia and many more.

IDEAS OF OUR TIME: ART & TECHNOLOGY ROUNDTABLE

Saturday, September 13 | 11 a.m.

MOCA Jacksonville will host an Art & Technology Roundtable discussion moderated by Senior Curator Ylva Rouse and featuring media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and professor and scholar Michael Nardone. The group will explore how artists have long subverted the intended uses of different technologies, laying bare the ethical and moral impacts of the ever-increasing digital landscape in our society. This program takes place Saturday, September 13 at 11 a.m., during the final weekend of Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s Project Atrium installation, Spectral Subjects.

Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, the featured artist in MOCA’s current interactive Project Atrium installation Spectral Subjects, has been working for more than 30 years at the intersection of architecture and performance art, creating platforms for public participation that utilize technologies such as robotics, digital fountains, computerized surveillance, media walls, and telematic networks. Spectral Subjects uses thermographic cameras to detect and project the temperature in the space onto the wall, making the viewer part of the work and opening conversation around the often-invasive uses of technology.

IDEAS OF OUR TIME: JAX CONTEMPORARY ARTIST TALKS

MOCA Jacksonville is hosting a series of talks featuring local artists in its Jax Contemporary Artist Talks. Hear from the local artists whose works are on display in Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial. These free events take place during first Wednesday Museum Nights, presented by Florida Blue, and VyStar Free Saturdays, in the MOCA Theater through November. Each artist will speak for thirty minutes. Participants can visit the exhibition on the third floor of the museum and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award! Voting ends September 1, 2025

Wed, April 2 | 7 p.m.
Michael Rakim, Marsha Hatcher, and Kaz McCue

April 5 | 3 p.m.
Ana Ion, Elena Øhlander, and Vivien Zink

Sat, May 3 | 1 p.m.
Sandy Harrington and Deshonna Buchanan

Wed, June 4 | 7 p.m.
Mark Creegan, Christopher Clark, and Mico Fuentes

Sat, June 7 | 1 p.m.
Overstreet Ducasse, Keith Doles, and Storm Rowland

Wed, July 2 | 7 p.m.
David Engdahl, Jeff Whipple, Mark George, and Mary Joan Hinson

Sat, July 5 | 1 p.m.
Sarah Crooks, Gail Beveridge, and Jason John

Wed, August 6 | 7 p.m.
Zakriya Rabani, Stephen Heywood, Overstreet Ducasse, and J. Adam McGalliard

Wed, September 3 | 7 p.m.
Robert Dewitt Adams, d. lance vickery, Jenny Hager, and Erin Kendrick

Wed, October 1 | 7 p.m.
Susanne Schuenke Ph.D., Hillary Hogue, Tanner Pletzke, and Chip Southworth

Wed, November 5 | 7 p.m.
Yna Cruz, Laura Colomb, Holly Blanton, and Joshua Cooper

MEDIA PORTAL

Robert Rauschenberg & the Moon Museum

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/v722lz7by9xqv6qjprbn1/ACoGVLjbnaa_oUaK12S98c8?rlkey=8x4mdouy3144hfvkjv8fmhdla&st=nrcmri15&dl=0

Art & Technology Roundtable

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/avp4469kkinhymy9bmx4q/AJL-itauiRx8MfqJ-_GMt28?rlkey=79z2rml89kz4x9yqk1ql8xt01&st=3ly8wodi&dl=0

Jax Contemporary Artist Talks

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/cgdbfj5fn8tiqxani9kie/AHRzo1xf3lGjQ1EGIqIGHG8?rlkey=so56k8z8fbn3ullfkq3v9pjv9&st=df3otqgs&dl=0

ABOUT MOCA JACKSONVILLE

In 1924, a group of visionary local women artists came together to imagine the kind of city they wanted Jacksonville to be — the kind of community they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of their vision for a rich, vital, dynamic city were art, culture, and education. Thus, what we now call MOCA Jacksonville was born — first as a series of exhibitions by artists of the day, used as a fundraising tool to support public school education; then as a guild; and later as an art museum and educational leader. In 2009, MOCA became a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and in 2025 the museum became one of only three percent of museums to achieve accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to American museums. More than century later, MOCA’s mission remains focused on the art, artists, and ideas of our time, with a vision that unites education, creativity, and community building in the heart of downtown Jacksonville.

For more information including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904.366.6911 or visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu.

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AMBER SESNICK (She/Her)

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

W: 904-620-3224 // C: 904-303-0703

MOCA JACKSONVILLE

A Cultural Institute of UNF

333 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202

Social Media @mocajax

MOCAJACKSONVILLE.UNF.EDU

Brooks Rehabilitation Again Ranked No. 1 Rehabilitation Hospital in Florida

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

NEWS RELEASE

Contact:

Jill Matejcek

Manager, Public & Community Relations

(904) 345-7718 phone

(904) 328-9531 mobile

Jill.Matejcek@brooksrehab.org

Brooks Rehabilitation Again Ranked No. 1 Rehabilitation Hospital in Florida

Jacksonville, Florida, July 29, 2025 – Brooks Rehabilitation has once again been recognized as the No. 1 rehabilitation hospital in Florida and one of the top 20 in the United States, as per U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 “Best Hospitals for Rehabilitation” rankings. This marks the third consecutive year Brooks has earned this prestigious accolade.

Known for its expertise in treating complex conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, Brooks Rehabilitation continues to set the gold standard in rehabilitative care. The hospital also received an “Excellent” rating for its patient services, including advanced case management, and cutting-edge rehabilitative technologies.

Brooks is at the forefront of innovation with its use of robotic exoskeletons and neuromodulation therapies, which have shown significant improvements in patient functional performance. Additionally, the hospital has integrated unique virtual reality solutions into its offerings, further enhancing patient outcomes.

“Patients from across the globe rely on our unparalleled expertise in tackling the most challenging rehabilitation cases,” said Trevor H. Paris, M.D., FAAPMR, system chief medical officer at Brooks Rehabilitation. “For over 50 years, we’ve consistently delivered exceptional care and remarkable patient outcomes. Being named among the nation’s top 20 rehabilitation hospitals is a tremendous honor and testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.”

The annual U.S. News & World Report rankings aim to help patients and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about where to receive exceptional care. Rankings for rehabilitation hospitals are based on an in-depth analysis of patient outcomes, the complexity of care provided, and hospital performance. Hospitals must excel in treating the most medically complex cases to secure a spot among the nation's highest-ranked facilities.

About Brooks Rehabilitation

Brooks Rehabilitation, a nonprofit headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., has been a comprehensive system of care for physical rehabilitation for more than 50 years. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 rehabilitation hospital in Florida and top 20 in the nation, Brooks operates three inpatient hospitals in Florida and will open a new hospital on the Mayo Clinic campus in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2026. Through its commitment to innovation, Brooks is at the forefront of cutting-edge research, education and technology advancing the science of rehabilitation. Brooks provides outpatient services in more than 50 locations, offers home health care, skilled nursing, assisted living and memory care along with community programs and services to improve the quality of life for people living with physical disabilities.

Jill Matejcek (she/her)

Manager, Public and Community Relations

Brooks Rehabilitation

3599 University Blvd. S.

Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 345-7718 office

(904) 328-9531 mobile

Orange Park Mall Hosts Back to School Bash This Saturday

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Orange Park Mall Hosts Back to School Bash This Saturday

Just in Time for Florida’s New Month-Long Tax-Free Holiday

Orange Park, FL – July 30, 2025 – Orange Park Mall is inviting families to gear up for the new school year at its Back to School Bash this Saturday, August 2, with a day full of fun activities and opportunities to save big during Florida’s Tax-Free Holiday. The event kicks off at 11:00 AM in the JCPenney Court, where community partner “Doing What We Dream” will host a school supply giveaway while supplies last. Families can also enjoy a bounce house and face painting in the same area.

Over near Dillard’s, guests can visit the Confidence Counts Uplift Station, a special kindness zone designed to help everyone kick off the school year with confidence. Kids can write encouraging notes for classmates and teachers at the Kindness Card Kiosk, strike a pose at the First Day Selfie Stop and add their power word to the Wall of Confidence, while parents enjoy light refreshments at the Recharge Station. The main stage will feature a Premiere Martial Arts demo at 12:00 PM and the always-popular Dillard’s Fashion Show at 2:00 PM, plus a balloon artist will be on-site adding to the fun.

“Our Back to School Bash is a community favorite, and this year’s event is perfectly timed with Florida’s Tax-Free Holiday,” said Randy Bowman, General Manager at Orange Park Mall. “It’s a chance for families to stock up on essentials without paying sales tax and enjoy a full day of fun before the school year begins.”

Florida’s Tax-Free Holiday runs August 1 – 31, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase clothing, footwear, school supplies, and select electronics without paying sales tax. All stores throughout Orange Park Mall are participating, making it the ideal place to shop, save, and celebrate the season.

WHEN:

Saturday, August 2

11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

WHERE:

Orange Park Mall

1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073

For more information about the Back to School Bash or the Florida Tax-Free Holiday, visit orangeparkmall.com or follow Orange Park Mall on Facebook and Instagram.

About Orange Park Mall

Orange Park Mall is Jacksonville’s premier family-friendly shopping destination, offering more than 120 national and local retailers, including Dillard's, Books-A-Million, Hollister, BoxLunch, Dick's Sporting Goods, Pandora and Old Navy. The property also features a 24-screen AMC Theater, over 20 diverse eateries, and year-round community events that bring people together.

As a cornerstone of the Jacksonville community since 1975, Orange Park Mall continues to provide a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for all ages. The mall is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. For more information, visit orangeparkmall.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @orangeparkmall.

Join VyStar Credit Union and Sulzbacher Village for a Free Back-to-School Bash

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

July 29, 2025

Contact: Leigh Ann Rassler, Public Relations Specialist

rasslerl@vystarcu.org

904-813-9933

MEDIA ALERT

Join VyStar Credit Union and Sulzbacher Village for a Free

Back-to-School Bash

Backpacks, School Supplies & Health Services for Local Kids on August 9

WHAT:

Identity VyStar Credit Union and the Sulzbacher Village invite children and families in the surrounding community to a free, fun-filled Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, August 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Sulzbacher Village.

This exciting event will feature:

500 free backpacks filled with essential school supplies, donated by VyStar Employee Resource Groups (VRGs)
Free food, music by a live DJ, and family-friendly activities

The event will also focus on connecting families to Sulzbacher’s pediatric health services. During the event, Sulzbacher will also offer 30 first-come, first-served, walk-up appointments for students to receive free back-to-school physicals on August 9 at the Sulzbacher Village Pediatric Health Center.

WHEN:

Saturday, August 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

WHERE:

Sulzbacher Village

5455 Springfield Blvd. (44^th & Pearl)

Jacksonville, FL 32208

WHY:

WHO:

This event is part of VyStar’s ongoing commitment to supporting local families and ensuring children are prepared and healthy for the new school year.

3208 Interviews will be available with the following:

Cindy Funkhouser, Sulzbacher, President & CEO
Kemal Gasper, VyStar Vice President Community Engagement
Leah Lynch, HOPE, President
Participating Students and Parents

MEDIA:

Media interested in attending or requesting information should contact Leigh Ann Rassler at rasslerl@vystarcu.org

ABOUT VYSTAR CREDIT UNION:

ABOUT SULZBACHER:
Sulzbacher provides the opportunity for homeless men, women, and children to achieve a better life. The agency’s comprehensive services include street outreach, daily meals, emergency housing, case management support, veteran services, job placement assistance, as well as permanent supportive housing, scattered-site housing, and a therapeutic early learning center. Medical, dental, and mental health care is provided at its downtown campus, at the beaches and at its pediatric health center at Sulzbacher Village. Every day, Sulzbacher is home to more than 400 homeless members of our community – most of whom are women and children. For more information, visit www.sulzbacherjax.org.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR PARENT LEADERS

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

MEDIA ADVISORY

Media Contact:
Amy Henderson, JPEF Director of Marketing and Communications,
amy@jaxpef.org, cell: 404-387-0624?

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR PARENT LEADERS

WHO: Duval County parents and caregivers interested in developing their leadership skills and advocating on behalf of students and their communities.

WHAT: Parents Who Lead, a 20-week program presented by Duval County Public Schools, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, and Kids Hope Alliance. The program organizes events for participants to learn about the structure of local government and empowers parents to translate problems into action. ?

Parents will learn:

· How cities and school systems work?

· How and when to speak in public forums?

· How to influence decisions in ways that create lasting change for all the kids in your community

By the end of the program, participants are able to create personalized projects that address changes they want to see in the education system.

WHEN: Applications are currently being accepted until Aug. 22. The program begins on Sept. 27.

WHERE: Learn more and Apply at: https://www.jaxpef.org/our-work/for-parents/

More information: Contact Leofric Thomas, Jr., at leofric@jaxpef.org.

CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RECEIVES TWO MORE TOP TIER RATINGS FROM S&P AND KRBA

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Heather Schatz

hschatz@coj.net

CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RECEIVES TWO MORE TOP TIER RATINGS FROM S&P AND KRBA

JACKSONVILLE, Florida, July 25, 2025 — The City of Jacksonville is pleased to announce that S&P Global and Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KRBA) have assigned two more top tier “AA” ratings for our 2025 special revenue bonds. Earlier this month, Fitch Ratings affirmed an “AA+” rating.

A city’s bond rating is a measure of its credit quality, which is the ability to pay a bond's principal and interest in a timely fashion. A higher bond rating generally means the city can borrow at a lower interest rate, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in the process.

“We are grateful that S&P and Kroll have joined Fitch in recognizing the significant progress our city is making,” said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “This year’s ratings mark the second year in a row that we have received top tier ratings for this critical bond issuance that supports our infrastructure projects. It exemplifies Jacksonville’s strong financial health and reflects on what’s possible when we combine bold ideas with fiscal responsibility to move our city forward.”

The ratings reflect Jacksonville’s solid financial track record, healthy reserves, strong and diverse economy, fast population growth, and significant military presence. The City’s focus on permitting, downtown development, and climate resilience were also contributing factors.

Highlights from the S&P Global report include:

“The 'AA' rating reflects Jacksonville's robust and diverse economy that continues to strengthen through healthy employment gains and investment coming to the city, along with an already significant military presence. The city, located in Duval County, is the economic engine for the seven-county Northeast Florida region and has seen its population increase by over 15% in the last decade. … Economic output continues to outpace the national rate and provides additional support to the rating. The economic growth in conjunction with the city’s comprehensive financial policies fiscally responsible management “has resulted in several years of positive operating performances and healthy reserve levels.”

“Broad and expanding tax base, with economic output above the national average and steady population growth. Property valuation growth, steady building permits, and notable development projects are contributing to the city’s strong assessed value growth. Robust private investment and employment gains will likely contribute to further growth in the tax and employment bases in the near term. Proactive and sophisticated financial policies and practices, demonstrated by well-rounded budgeting practices, general fund forecasting and long-term capital planning.”

“The city is working to address immediate and long-term climate and weather-related risks, for example, by adding staff to its resilience team and participating in the Storm Resiliency and Infrastructure Development Review Committee. We understand that Jacksonville has taken steps to buy out certain parcels in flood-prone areas in recent years. … According to officials, the city continues to implement the Resilient Jacksonville strategy, which includes a commitment to risk-informed land use decisions.”

The KRBA report also noted that Jacksonville has an excellent economic base, population growth rate, and demographic makeup; an exceptional budget and appropriation process; and ideal management structure, budget practices, and policies. They also noted that the City’s reserves “far exceed the City’s Reserve Policy targets of 5–7% for operating reserves and 7–10% for emergency reserves, providing a substantial cushion above the minimums and underscoring the City’s strong commitment to financial resilience.”

About the City of Jacksonville

The City of Jacksonville is the largest city by land mass in the contiguous United States, serving one million residents. City of Jacksonville leadership includes Mayor Donna Deegan and a 19-member City Council led by President Kevin Carrico. To learn more, visit jacksonville.gov.

FISHER TOUSEY ADDS UPCHURCH, BAILEY AND UPCHURCH TO ITS GROWING LAW PRACTICE IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

The expanded firm will have more than three dozen attorneys, and several more practice areas than the two firms had independently

Jacksonville, FL (July 24, 2025) – Fisher Tousey has combined with Upchurch, Bailey and Upchurch, adding several areas of expertise and a respected team of lawyers to its growing practice in Northeast Florida.

St. Augustine-based Upchurch, Bailey and Upchurch is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and is well-known for its land use, environmental law, education law, trust and estates, real estate and banking practice.

As Fisher Tousey incorporates this expanded practice area, all Upchurch attorneys will remain located in their historic St. Augustine office, which will be known as Upchurch, Bailey and Upchurch, A Fisher Tousey Firm.

“We are proud to bring Upchurch, Bailey and Upchurch into the Fisher Tousey family,” Fisher Tousey Managing Director Trevor Ross said. “This is an important partnership that allows us to serve our existing clients in more ways and continue to expand in St. Johns County, one of the fastest-growing areas in the Southeast.”

Fisher Tousey specializes in trusts and estate planning, tax planning, corporate law, real estateand litigation, and adding a firm with different practice areas is why this decision makes sense, Ross said.

“We are incredibly proud of the work we’ve done for families and businesses in St. Augustine and that work will not change,” said Michael Siragusa, managing partner of Upchurch, Bailey and Upchurch. “As we looked to find a partner for the next 100 years, we wanted a firm that would uphold the same high standards and values that are important to us and our clients. We found that partner in Fisher Tousey.”

The combination became official July 1.

About Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball:

Established in 1978, Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball, P.A. consists of highly regarded leaders in the areas of corporate law, real estate, litigation, tax controversy, and complex estate tax planning. From family businesses and nonprofits to high-net-worth individuals, Fisher Tousey provides customized services and individual attention to a diverse client base. Fisher Tousey has more than 30 attorneys and is headquartered in Jacksonville, with branch offices in Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Johns County and on Amelia Island.

Contact:

Matt Galnor

Bachman Galnor Communications

Matt@bachmangalnor.com

(904) 472-4196

The Jacksonville Children's Chorus Returns from Tour to Greece and Turkey

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Jacksonville Children's Chorus Returns from Tour to Greece and Turkey

The Touring Choir has returned from a life-changing tour to Greece and Turkey!

The Touring Choir of the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus (JCC) has returned home from an extraordinary Summer Tour across Greece and Turkey—a life-enriching journey for the talented young singers.

Throughout the tour, the choir performed at unique and culturally significant venues: Varvaresou Park in Athens, the Church of Saints Constantine and Helena in Volos, the Symposion Cultural Center in Santorini, and a plaza on the harbourfront in Bodrum, Turkey.

On her experience singing in Santorini, Alyssa, a Touring Choir singer, shared, “I wasn’t ready for how personal and life-changing this performance would become.”

In addition to their performances, the choir engaged with Greek culture and explored the rich history and traditions of the region. The tour created memorable performances and meaningful cross-cultural experiences that will remain with the singers for a lifetime.

The Chorus extends its heartfelt thanks to individual supporters. The JCC is especially grateful for the generosity of Congruent Wealth for their support of tour excursions in Athens, Greece. Your generosity created lifelong memories and unlocked educational experiences with cultural landmarks such as the Acropolis. This unforgettable tour would not have been possible without your commitment and belief in the mission of The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus.

About the Jacksonville Children's Chorus

The Jacksonville Children's Chorus is a dedicated organization committed to inspiring excellence in young singers through a high-quality choral music education. From 16 singers in 1995, JCC has developed into one of the nation's most important providers of music education, enriching the lives of singers and audiences around the globe.

The Touring Choir is the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus’ premier ensemble for advanced singers ages 12–18. Performing a challenging repertoire, the group tours locally, nationally, and internationally. Highlights include singing at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City—where they made history in 2023 as the first non-NYC-based choirs invited to perform in the annual Christmas program.

For more information about the JCC and upcoming events, please visi

Jumbo Shrimp Homestand Highlights July 29-August 3

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, July 24, 2025

Jumbo Shrimp Homestand Highlights July 29-August 3

Series features Back to School Night, Friday Night fireworks, Thirsty Thursday and clear backpack giveaway

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 2025 season continues at 7:05 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29 with a six-game series against the Columbus Clippers, Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, that runs through Sunday, August 3 at VyStar Ballpark. The homestand features a promotional lineup that includes the following highlights:

Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 7:05 p.m. (Gates open at 6 p.m.)

Stahl-Meyer Two for Tuesday: Enjoy two hot dogs for $2 during each Tuesday home game, presented by Stahl-Meyer. This offer can be redeemed at All American Jax, Southern Fried Freebird, Pinstripe Parlor and Grab and Go concession stands.

Get to Know Your Neighbor: Come browse a collection of nonprofits from the Jacksonville community.

Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 7:05 p.m. (Gates open at 6 p.m.)

Charity Begins at Home, presented by Haven Retreats: Join the Jumbo Shrimp and Haven Retreats as they raise awareness and funds throughout the night with ticket sales and promotions.

Polka Night: Come join the Jumbo Shrimp for a night of Polka music at the ballpark.

Wear it Home Wednesday, presented by Renewal by Andersen & Ambetter Health: Be one of the first 500 fans through the Main Gate on Georgia St. and a classy Jumbo Shrimp t-shirt **One giveaway per person, not per ticket.** **Giveaways only available when entering at the Main Gates on Georgia St.**

Thursday, July 31, 2025, 7:05 p.m. (Gates open at 6 p.m.)

Coors Light Thirsty Thursday: Thursday games are the best happy hour on the First Coast. Fans can purchase $2 (16-oz.) and $3 (24-oz. drafts) at the Oasis concession stand, underneath the stairs at the Craft Cave, and at the beer garden near the Tiki Terrace. $2 Coors Light cans are also available with all the hawkers throughout VyStar Ballpark.

Clippers: With the clippers in town, there will be clippers on the concourse. Come get a haircut!

Friday, August 1, 2025, 7:05 p.m. (Gates open at 6 p.m.)

Friday Night Lites, presented by Miller Lite: Join the Jumbo Shrimp for Friday Night Lites with $2, 12-oz. Miller Lites and $1 off craft beer in the Craft Cave.

One Hit Wonder: One hit wonders played all night long. The Jumbo Shrimp guarantee you forgot the song existed or have no idea who the artist is.

Friday Night Fireworks, presented by Union Home Mortgage: Be sure to stick around after the game for Friday Night Fireworks!

Red Shirt Friday, presented by True Vet Solutions: Fans wearing red can save $1 on their tickets at the Miller Electric Box Office or donate that $1 to True Vet Solutions.

Saturday, August 2, 2025, 6:35 p.m. (Gates open at 5 p.m.)

Back to School Night: Make the thought of going back to school fun with the Jumbo Shrimp

Toy Story Jersey Auction: The Jumbo Shrimp will be wearing Toy Story themed jerseys. Auction can be found HERE.

Clear Backpack Giveaway, presented by Wolfson Children’s: You’ll be the coolest person around. Whether you use it for school, travel, shopping or whatever you desire with this clear backpack. Be one of the first 2,000 people through the Main Gates on Georgia St. **One giveaway per person, not per ticket.** **Giveaways ONLY available when entering through the Main Gates on Georgia St.

Sunday, August 3, 2025, 5:05 p.m. (Gates open at 4 p.m.)

Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday presented by Baptist Health: Fans can enter through the Main Gate on Georgia Street and head to the field via the Baptist Health Centerfield Plaza for pregame catch on the field for the first 20 minutes after gates open. There will also be complimentary pregame face painting and balloon animals. Plus, kids can feel like the pros by rounding the bases after the game.

Star Wars Day: The Jumbo Shrimp along with costuming clubs and the 501st Legion Squad7 are proud to present Star Wars Day! Come join everyone at the ballpark and meet your favorite Star Wars characters.

New at VyStar Ballpark in 2025:

New Main Gate: New this year, fans can now enter the ballpark at the brand-new Main Gate on Georgia St., adjacent to Lot P North.

New Ground Level Souvenir Store: Two is better than one! The new Souvenir Store will now be accessible via the Baptist Health Centerfield Plaza and have access from Georgia St by Parking Lot P! The existing store on the main concourse will still be open during game days.

360 Ballpark Returns: The new Baptist Health Centerfield Plaza and the walkway on the new Right Field building are the gateways for fans to once again make their way around the entirety of VyStar Ballpark.

Incredible New Food Options:

The Pit Smokehouse: Traditional BBQ plates smoked in-house
The Oasis: Latin, Jax-Mex flavors with tacos and quesadillas
Right Field Hall: Shareable plates and ballpark tapas with a full bar
The Wheelhouse: Made-to-order sandwiches, salads, wraps and cheesesteaks
Scampi’s Cove: Classic ballpark snacks and sweets
Pinstripe Parlor: Pizza and ice cream parlor

International League Championship Series: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp clinched the first half of the 2025 season with a 47-28 record and will host the International League Championship series at VyStar Ballpark from September 23-24, 25*(If necessary).Playoff packages are already on sale and can be found HERE.

Jacksonville’s 6th Annual Honey Bee Festival Returns August 16 with Local Fare Collaboration

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville’s 6th Annual Honey Bee Festival Returns August 16 with Local Fare Collaboration

JACKSONVILLE, FL – July 24, 2025 — Bee Friends Farm is proud to announce the return of its beloved annual event — now reimagined as BeeFare: The 6th Annual Honey Bee Festival, in partnership with Northeast Florida’s fresh food champions, Local Fare. The event will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at theJacksonville Fairgrounds, in honor of National Honey Bee Day.

BeeFare is a celebration of all things bees, beekeeping, and local living. With hands-on education, honey tastings, and a vibrant marketplace of local vendors, the event is designed to bring the community together while highlighting the critical role pollinators play in our food systems.

“This year’s collaboration with Local Fare adds a whole new flavor to the event,” said Michael Leach, owner of Bee Friends Farm. “We’re bringing together the worlds of farming, beekeeping, and food to offer an experience that’s both meaningful and fun for the whole family.”

Festival Highlights Include:

Beekeeping activities for all ages
Educational presentations every hour
Honey tasting bar featuring regional Florida honey
Cooking demonstrations and food sampling hosted by Local Fare
Buzy Bee Marketplace with over 60 local vendors and artisans
Bee-a-Kid Zone for children ages 5+
Food Truck Alley with local favorites

• Ask-a-Beekeeper booths with experts from the Jacksonville, Clay County, and Nassau County Beekeepers Associations

Tickets are $8 for adults; kids 16 and under get in free. The festival takes place at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds, 510 Fairground Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202.

Vendor applications and full event info are available at:

www.beefriendsfarm.com

About Bee Friends Farm

Founded in 2013, Bee Friends Farm is a family-owned beekeeping operation located in Jacksonville, Florida. With a mission to educate the public and support pollinator health, they produce raw, varietal honey, creamed and specialty honeys, beeswax products, and offer beekeeping experiences and community events.

About Local Fare

Founded by Chris and Cora Curry in 2011, Local Fare began as a mission to make fresh, affordable, and local food accessible to the community. Chris, a former executive chef, and Cora were driven to act when their young son was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and processed foods became harmful to his health. Their passion for sourcing low- mileage, farm-fresh ingredients evolved into a thriving effort to connect families and chefs with local farms. Today, Local Fare hosts tastings, chefs’ markets, and collaborations that support a healthier, more sustainable food system for all.

Media Contact:

Amanda Spink
Bee Friends Farm amanda@beefriendsfarm.com (904) 446-5883

RadiFi Credit Union Launches Back‑to‑School Supply Drive

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

RadiFi Credit Union Launches Back-to-School Supply Drive

Drive kicks off on July 25 in honor of I Love My Credit Union Day and during the extended sales tax holiday, ending on August 9

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – July 23, 2025 – RadiFi Credit Union, celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2025, is proud to launch a Back-to-School Supply Drive, kicking off in honor of National I Love My Credit Union Day on July 25 and during Florida’s extended sales tax holiday. The drive will end on August 9. Reflecting its enduring mission to help people live more vibrantly, RadiFi is collecting school essentials for local families at schools near their branch locations ahead of the new school year.

With school supply costs breaking the bank, many Florida parents are struggling – according to a recent study by Savings.com, 72% of parents are cutting expenses or picking up extra shifts to cover school supply costs (up from 56% last year) with average spending around $620 per student. 70% expect inflation and tariffs will drive prices higher. This initiative coincides with Florida’s expanded Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, running August 1 through August 31, allowing families to purchase qualifying items tax-free – including school supplies up to $50, backpacks up to $100, and computers and accessories up to $1,500.

“As we celebrate 90 years of serving our community, supporting local students and families remains a core part of who we are,” said Tara McQuillen, Chief Marketing Officer of RadiFi Credit Union. “Our Back-to-School Supply Drive is one small way we can help ease the burden for families and ensure students have what they need to start the year off right.”

Suggested new school supplies for donation include backpacks, notebooks, pens, binders, crayons, scissors, calculators, glue and more. Donations can be brought to any Jacksonville-area RadiFi branch from July 17 to August 9.

RadiFi Branch Drop-Off Locations and Participating Schools

All branches are open Monday through Friday from 9?a.m. to 5?p.m. and Saturday from 9?a.m. to 1 p.m.

Main Office – Park Street | 562 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
- Central Riverside Elementary

Baymeadows Branch | 9802 Old Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32256
- Twin Lakes Elementary
Mandarin Branch | 11406 San Jose Blvd, Ste 2, Jacksonville, FL 32223
- Loretto Elementary
Northside Branch | 1440 Dunn Ave, Ste 31, Jacksonville, FL 32218
- Highlands Elementary
Westside Branch | 7254 103rd St, Jacksonville, FL 32210
- Jacksonville Heights Elementary
Atlantic Beach Branch | 801 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
- Atlantic Beach Elementary
Orange Park Branch | 950 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, FL 32065
- Ridgeview Elementary
Glen Kernan Parkway Branch | 4815 Sweetgrass Pl, Jacksonville, FL 32224
- Chets Creek Elementary

For more information on the RadiFi Back-to-School Supply Drive, visit https://www.radificu.org/blog/press-releases/back-to-school-supply-drive-jacksonville/ and follow the credit union on Instagram at @radificu and Facebook at RadiFi Credit Union.

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About RadiFi Credit Union
RadiFi Credit Union, formerly JAX Federal Credit Union, has been proudly serving members in Northeast Florida since 1935. With a strong focus on community, innovation, and personalized financial solutions, RadiFi is committed to helping members achieve financial wellness through every stage of life.

Marlins fans can catch select Jumbo Shrimp games on FanDuel Sports Network

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Marlins fans can catch select Jumbo Shrimp games on FanDuel Sports Network

Jumbo Shrimp games on August 3, 17, 27, 31 available on FanDuel Sports Network Florida or FanDuel Sports Network app

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – FanDuel Sports Network will shine a spotlight on the Miami Marlins’ up-and-coming crop of talent, televising and streaming select Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp games during the second half of the 2025 Minor League Baseball season.

Starting Aug. 3, fans across Florida can tune in on FanDuel Sports Network Florida or the FanDuel Sports Network app to see four home games of the Marlins’ Triple-A affiliate. The Jumbo Shrimp are this year’s International League First Half champions, clinching a postseason berth for the first time since 2017.

Jacksonville currently features eight of the Marlins’ top 30 prospects according to MLB Pipeline: left-handed pitcher Robby Snelling (No. 3), catcher Joe Mack (No. 4), corner infielder Deyvison De Los Santos (No. 11), right-hander Adam Mazur (No. 12), middle infielder Maximo Acosta (No. 18), outfielder Jakob Marsee (No. 22), outfielder Victor Mesa Jr. (No. 25) and outfielder Andrew Pintar (No. 28).

Jacksonville broadcaster Scott Kornberg will team with an analyst to call each of the four games.

JUMBO SHRIMP GAMES ON FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK

DATE	TIME (ET)	OPPONENT
Sunday, 8/3	5:00 PM	Columbus
Sunday, 8/17	5:00 PM	Norfolk
Wednesday, 8/27	7:00 PM	Rochester
Sunday, 8/31	6:30 PM	Rochester

NOTE: All games above air on FanDuel Sports Network Florida and stream on the FanDuel Sports Network app and at FanDuelSportsNetwork.com. Schedule is subject to change.

Fans throughout the state of Florida can stream these Jumbo Shrimp games and all of the network’s Marlins programming on the FanDuel Sports Network app and at FanDuelSportsNetwork.com by authenticating with their pay-TV credentials or subscribing directly.?Monthly, annual and Season Pass subscriptions are available.

For a limited time, Marlins fans can sign up for one month of FanDuel Sports Network for $19.99 and get their second month free. To take advantage of this special offer, click here and use the promo code MIAMIBOGO at checkout.

New this season, local Prime Video customers can also sign up for FanDuel Sports Network as an add-on subscription to access games and all other programming on the network. To get started, open the Prime Video app or visit amazon.com/channels and search for FanDuel Sports Network.

FanDuel Sports Network Florida is also widely available on cable, satellite, and virtual streaming providers across the state. For a list of TV providers in your zip code that carry FanDuel Sports Network, visit GetMyHomeTeams.com.

FanDuel Sports Network will continue to highlight the Marlins’ minor league system all season long with episodes of “Marlins All-Access: Next Wave” that profile top prospects and capture the unique ballpark atmosphere at each of the affiliates. The addition of these Jumbo Shrimp live game broadcasts will allow viewers to see some of the players closest to breaking into or returning to the Major Leagues.

ABOUT FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK FLORIDA/SUN: FanDuel Sports Network Sun and FanDuel Sports Network Florida – two Main Street Sports Group-owned regional sports networks – are?the?local TV and streaming homes for?the?Miami?HEAT, Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins and Orlando Magic. Serving sports fans across?the?Sunshine State,?FanDuel Sports Network Sun and FanDuel Sports Network Florida present more live, local sports programming than any other network or broadcast system in?the?market. For more information and content, visit?www.fanduelsportsnetwork.com.

Community First Credit Union Presents EDTalks, Featuring Stanford’s Isabelle Hau, on the Future of Education, AI, and Workforce Readiness

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Community First Credit Union Presents EDTalks, Featuring Stanford’s Isabelle Hau, on the Future of Education, AI, and Workforce Readiness

Jacksonville Public Education Fund’s Signature Luncheon Returns Sept. 23, Bringing Local and National Voices Together to Explore the Future of Learning

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (July 17, 2025) — Technology is changing how students learn and how people work. This fall, education and business leaders from across Northeast Florida will gather to chart a path towards a future where students are equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving workforce.

The Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), in partnership with presenting sponsor Community First Credit Union, will host its fifth biennial EDTalks on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marriott Jacksonville Downtown. The event brings together hundreds of educators, business leaders, and advocates to spark action around the most pressing issues in public education today.

“Today’s students are navigating a world where technology is shaping how they learn and communicate, and also how they prepare for the careers of tomorrow,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, president of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. “EDTalks offers a pivotal opportunity for our community to unite, ensuring that we are equipping them with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in an increasingly digital and dynamic future.”

This year’s program features keynote speaker Isabelle C. Hau, executive director of Stanford University’s Accelerator for Learning. A nationally recognized leader at the intersection of education and artificial intelligence, Hau will share groundbreaking insights into how schools and communities can adapt in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

"We are thrilled to present this insightful and impactful speaker on a topic many leaders are working to understand," said Sam Inman, president and CEO of Community First and JPEF Board Member. "This JPEF EDTalks provides an unprecedented opportunity to connect with a leader in artificial technology and how to harness its great power and improve how we prepare our workforce."

Chaired by community leaders Buck Williams and Mary Goldsmith, EDTalks 2025 will also shine a spotlight on local educators, students, and advocates who are already innovating in the classroom and beyond. Their stories will anchor the conversation in the realities of teaching and learning in Duval County in this new era.

Dr. Barbara Darby will also be honored as the Nina Waters Quality Education for All Champion. A trailblazing leader and lifelong advocate for public education, Dr. Darby’s legacy in Jacksonville is extraordinary. As the former President of Florida State College at the North Campus and Nassau Center, she led for nearly two decades with vision and impact—expanding access to workforce-aligned degree programs and creating life-changing opportunities for students across our region.

Since its inception, EDTalks has catalyzed collaboration between education and business sectors, fueling investment in student achievement, teacher leadership, and educational opportunity. This year promises to continue that legacy, driving forward solutions to ensure Jacksonville’s students are equipped for our community’s future.

Tickets and sponsorships are now available at jaxpef.org/edtalks.

About JPEF

Since 2009, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund has been dedicated to bridging gaps in public education by investing in strong school leaders and educators. Through bold ideas, strategic resources, and trusted relationships we help build the bridges that connect students to opportunity, educators to support, and our community to lasting change. For more information: www.jaxpef.org.

About Community First Credit Union of Florida

Community First Credit Union of Florida, celebrating 90 years of service in 2025, is a state-chartered credit union based in Jacksonville serving anyone who lives or works on the First Coast. Community First is one of the largest credit unions in Florida, with $2.8 billion in assets, 180,000 members, 24 locations, and more than 450 employees. A not-for-profit, Community First is a full-service financial institution offering banking, loans, mortgages, and investments for consumers and businesses across Northeast Florida.

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For more information, contact Amy Henderson, amy@jaxpef.org; cell: 404-387-0624

Wyman Duggan — Leading in Law and in Tallahassee

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL – 7/18/25 – Rogers Towers is proud to recognize shareholder and Board member Wyman Duggan, a distinguished attorney and public servant who exemplifies the firm’s tradition of leadership in both legal and civic arenas. Recently elevated to the position of Speaker pro tempore of the Florida House of Representatives (2024–2026), Mr. Duggan continues to serve the people of Florida with integrity and distinction, bringing the same dedication and analytical skill to his legislative role that he brings to every client he serves at Rogers Towers.

As Speaker pro tempore, Mr. Duggan now holds one of the most influential posts in the Florida House, presiding over sessions, managing House operations, and supporting the Speaker in leading the legislative body. This leadership role underscores the deep trust placed in him by his peers and reflects his longstanding commitment to public service.

A Respected Voice in State Policy

Mr. Duggan has represented Florida House District 12 (formerly District 15) since 2018 and currently chairs the powerful Ways & Means Committee. His additional assignments on the Commerce Committee, State Affairs Committee, and Security & Threat Assessment Committee place him at the center of Florida’s legislative process, especially in matters related to business development, taxation, infrastructure, and public safety.

His insight into regulatory structures, fiscal policy, and land use law makes him a key contributor to Florida’s ongoing growth and innovation—particularly as Northeast Florida continues to expand and evolve.

A Trusted Legal Strategist

Before his election to the House, Mr. Duggan chaired the firm’s Governmental and Regulatory Law Department, where he built a reputation as a trusted advisor on land use, zoning, permitting, and major infrastructure projects. With over two decades of experience, he has guided developers, property owners, and business leaders through complex legal and governmental frameworks—securing entitlements for commercial, residential, and industrial developments throughout Northeast Florida.

Notably, Mr. Duggan has achieved more than $30 million in property tax assessment reductions for clients, and his regulatory experience is regularly sought out by leaders navigating high-stakes development and policy decisions. He is consistently recognized by Best Lawyers in America®, Martindale-Hubbell, and the Jacksonville Business Journal as one of Florida’s top land use and administrative attorneys.

Leadership in the Community

Mr. Duggan’s commitment to civic life extends far beyond City Hall and the Capitol. He has served in key leadership roles across Northeast Florida, including:

· General Counsel and Board Member, JAX Chamber (2024–present)

President, NAIOP Northeast Florida
Board Member, Jacksonville Community Council Inc., and Rotary Club of Jacksonville.
Chair, Charter Revision Commission for the City of Jacksonville (2009–2010)
Vice Chair, Task Force on Consolidated Government (2013–2014)

He is also a graduate of Leadership Florida, Leadership Jacksonville, and the inaugural class of the Jacksonville Regional Political Leadership Institute.

Service with Honor

Born in Jacksonville, Mr. Duggan’s roots in the community run deep. After earning his undergraduate degree magna cum laude from The University of the South, he went on to earn his J.D. from the William & Mary Law School. He served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, reflecting a commitment to service and discipline that shapes his legal and legislative work.

When he’s not advocating for clients or crafting policy in Tallahassee, Mr. Duggan devotes time to his family, his church, and his community. He has served on the vestry at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and in youth organizations like the Boy Scouts of America.

Wyman Duggan represents the very best of what Rogers Towers offers—sharp legal intellect, public service leadership, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. We are proud to have him on our team.

To learn more about Wyman Duggan’s practice or connect with him directly, visit his attorney profile, or contact our Governmental and Regulatory Law team.

For more information, visit www.rtlaw.com.

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Edward Waters University to Host Ribbon Cutting for Renovated Football Locker Room

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 15, 2025
Jacksonville, FL — Edward Waters University (EWU), Florida’s first independent institution of higher learning and the state’s first Historically Black College or University (HBCU), is proud to announce the official Ribbon-cutting Ceremony for its newly renovated Football Locker Room. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the James Weldon Johnson (JWJ) Academic Building on the EWU campus.

The upgraded locker room is a major milestone in EWU’s ongoing investment in student-athlete success and the continued enhancement of its athletics facilities. This renovation reflects the university’s commitment to providing a world-class environment for its football program and reinforcing the role of athletics in the holistic development of its students. “This initiative represents more than a physical renovation—it’s a symbol of our belief in the potential of our student-athletes and our commitment to fostering excellence in every area of the Edward Waters experience,” said President and CEO Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. “We are incredibly proud to unveil this revitalized space and grateful to all who helped bring it to life.”

The ceremony will include remarks from university leadership, a formal ribbon-cutting, and guided tours of the new facility. University trustees, alumni, students, and community partners are invited to attend this celebration of growth, excellence, and Tiger Pride.

Media outlets are invited and encouraged to attend.

For more information or to confirm attendance, please contact: Van Murray, Executive Assistant to the President v.murray@ew.edu

About Edward Waters University

Founded in 1866, Edward Waters University is Florida’s first HBCU and the state’s oldest private institution of higher learning. Located in Jacksonville, EWU offers a dynamic academic experience rooted in excellence, innovation, and service. As an emerging urban, minority-serving, Christian institution, EWU is committed to preparing students holistically to advance in a global society.

IS SET TO ILLUMINATE Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts November 30, 2025 at 6:00 PM TICKETS ON SALE JULY 18, 10:00 AM FSCJARTISTSERIES.ORG

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. – CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE will captivate audiences in Jacksonville this holiday season with a brilliantly breathtaking holiday spectacular for the entire family for one unforgettable performance only at Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, November 30 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets will be on sale July 18 at 10:00 a.m. at fscjartistseries.org. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this nationally acclaimed annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts.

Enchanting and fun for children to seniors, the one and only CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE features a world-renowned cast of performers including an ensemble of aerial circus acts, sleight-of-hand jugglers, fun- loving skippers, eye-popping acrobatics, and more. Singers, dancers, toy soldiers, and reindeer invoke the dreams behind a child’s eye on the most magical of nights. Reimagined for 2025, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE features original music, fresh twists on beloved holiday favorites sung live, new sets, sparkling scenery, and stunning costumes.

Guests will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Both critics and audiences alike agree that CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is a show for all ages to enjoy where families can make unforgettable memories together. And Broadway World exclaims, “Lose yourself for 90 minutes and go back to those wonderful dreams you had as a kid.”

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is affordably priced with tickets starting at $41.50 and will be here for one show only on November 30. Tickets are available at FSCJArtistSeries.org or by calling 904-632-5000

For more information, visit cirquedreams.com and FSCJArtistSeries.org.

The FSCJ Artist Series has mobile ticketing. Mobile ticketing allows customers to access their show tickets and parking tickets on their mobile device. Customers may choose to opt out of mobile ticketing at time of purchase.

Parking for FSCJ Artist Series events at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts is available at the VyStar Parking Garage at 37 Hogan Street, just a short walk to the Center. Prepaid parking is $10 per car and parking on site is $15, credit card only and is subject to availability.

Groups of 10 or more are eligible to a discount on tickets. To receive the best pricing, reserve your group tickets today by emailing groupsales@fscjartistseries.org or calling (904) 632-5050.

For show photos, visit the PRESS ROOM on our website. For video and interview opportunities, please contact Shelley Henley at (904) 357-8938, (904) 699- 2656, or shelley.henley@fscjartistseries.org.

Fleet Landing Sponsors the Jacksonville Symphony’s Coffee Series

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Jacksonville, Fla. (July 17, 2025) — Fleet Landing, a premier Life Care Community in Atlantic Beach, is proud to announce its three-year sponsorship of the Jacksonville Symphony’s CoffeeSeries beginning in the 2025/26 Season. This series includes matinee performances that take place on Fridays at 11:00 a.m., starting with coffee in the lobby followed by a wide variety of select classical and pops concert programs.

As Fleet Landing celebrates its 35th anniversary, the organization continues to deepen its commitment to enriching the lives of older adults through meaningful experiences including the arts. With a campus of over 850 residents and a second location, Fleet Landing at Nocatee, set to open in 2027, the organization is expanding its reach and impact across Northeast Florida.

“We’re proud to partner with the Jacksonville Symphony and support a mission that resonates deeply with our own,” said Josh Ashby, CEO of Fleet Landing. “Music brings people together, lifts the spirit and makes life richer — and that’s what we’re all about at Fleet Landing.”

Fleet Landing actively integrates live performances and cultural programming into its WELLInspired™ wellness philosophy, providing residents with access to concerts, lectures and community arts events. The Coffee Series aligns perfectly with Fleet Landing’s focus on well-being, connection and lifelong engagement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Fleet Landing as the presenting sponsor of the Coffee Series,” said Steven B. Libman, President and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony. “This partnership highlights the vital role of the arts in every stage of life and we’re honored to collaborate with an organization that shares our belief in the transformative power of music.”

The Fleet Landing Coffee Series is available for purchase as a package with a total of nine performances. The 2025/26 Season includes “The Billy Joel Songbook” on October 3, “Holiday Pops” on December 5, “John Williams’ America” on January 9, “Rodgers, Hart & Hammerstein”on February 20, “Twist & Shout: The Music of The Beatles. A Symphonic Experience” on April 17 and so much more.

To explore the complete Fleet Landing Coffee Series and other events, visit www.jaxsymphony.org. Single tickets for all concerts go on sale July 10, 2025.

To learn more about Fleet Landing, visit www.fleetlanding.com/.

About the Jacksonville Symphony
The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading nonprofit performing arts organization offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 165,500 individuals through over 95 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

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Media Contact:
Savannah Silliman

Marketing and Public Relations Manager

Jacksonville Symphony

904-356-0426

ssilliman@jaxsymphony.org

Kelsi Young Fashion Show Returns to Benefit Pediatric Families

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

July 16, 2025 (Jacksonville, Fla.) – The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care is proud to announce the return of the Kelsi Young Fashion Show, taking place Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at San Jose Country Club in Jacksonville.

This uplifting event gives children from the Community PedsCare® program a chance to shine on the runway and enjoy a day that’s all about them. It’s a moment to play dress-up, laugh with friends, and feel the spotlight in the most joyful way. The fashion show supports the Kelsi Young Respite Care Fund, which helps provide much-needed rest for parents and guardians caring for children with serious medical conditions.

Community PedsCare® focuses on helping children and their families live better with advanced illness or serious injury through their hospice and palliative care services. Community PedsCare® is a unique program in our region that works in all settings of care and bridges the gaps between hospital care, physicians' offices, clinics, and community to assure that our youngest patients and their families have what is needed to live the best life possible, regardless of the length of their life. Largely unfunded and not widely available in other communities, this vital service exists thanks to the generosity of the Jacksonville community.

Established in memory of Kelsi Young, whose brief but meaningful life continues to inspire others, the fund allows families in the Community PedsCare® program to receive the breaks they need while ensuring their children are in safe, loving hands.

To learn more about the Kelsi Young Fashion Show or to support the fund, visit www.thefoundationcares.org or contact the Foundation at foundation@communityhospice.com or 904.886.3883.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 46-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,400 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com.

About The Foundation

Sporting JAX hosts Super League Kickoff Party ahead of historic inaugural season

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Fans invited to meet Jacksonville’s new pro women’s soccer team
during free festival presented by Gainbridge at James Weldon Johnson Park

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (July 16, 2025) – Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) will host the ultimate pre-season celebration, and the entire city is invited for an all-access pass to rally behind a new era of sport in Jacksonville. The Super League Kickoff Party, presented by Gainbridge, will be held on Friday, July 25, from 5 to 8 p.m. at James Weldon Johnson Park to give fans a chance to meet Jacksonville’s first professional women’s soccer team as they gear up for their historic debut in the Gainbridge Super League, a USL property.

“This is more than just a season kickoff; it’s the beginning of something truly special for Jacksonville,” said Steve Livingstone, president and CEO of Sporting JAX. “This club belongs to the community, and hosting this celebration at James Weldon Johnson Park feels especially meaningful as our club motto, Lift Every Voice, draws directly from his legacy and the spirit of unity this team represents. We encourage all of Jacksonville to show up, stand behind our team and be part of this historic moment.”

Presented by Gainbridge, the free, high-energy kickoff party will feature:

• Remarks by club leadership and special guests

• Meet-and-greets with the entire Sporting JAX team and coaches

• Autograph sessions and photo opportunities with players

• Live music and interactive games including an inflatable soccer goal, a giant dart board and soccer pool

• Food and drink sampling from Sporting JAX partners

• Party Shack Hospitality Suite tours

• Exclusive club merchandise including the new line of adidas swag and replica jerseys

• Sporting JAX giveaways, ticket details and more

For full event details and to RSVP, visit www.sportingjax.com/kickoffparty.

Sporting JAX’s debut takes center stage this August as the club hosts two historic preseason friendlies at UNF’s Hodges Stadium in the International Women’s Soccer Series presented by Visit Jacksonville. Starting with its first home match on Saturday, August 2, the club will host reigning Scottish Women’s Premier League champions, Hibernian FC Women. One week later, on Sunday, August 10, the club will face Wrexham AFC Women, the rising Welsh club whose story captivated global audiences thanks to celebrity owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in the hit FX/Hulu documentary, Welcome to Wrexham. Both matches will kick off at 7 p.m. EST.

Following the preseason friendlies, Sporting JAX will debut in the Gainbridge Super League with its home opener against DC Power FC on Saturday, August 23, at 7 p.m. at Hodges Stadium. All regular-season and playoff matches will stream live on Peacock, with local broadcast details to be announced soon.

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Season ticket packages for all 16 matches and group tickets (10 or more) are currently available, starting at just $10 per match. Fans who buy early will receive a complimentary inaugural season scarf (while supplies last). The preseason matches are currently available on a single-game basis and as part of a money-saving two-game “Euro Pack.” Visit www.sportingjax.com/tickets or call (904) 863-KICK to secure seats for this historic season.

For breaking Sporting JAX news, behind-the-scenes content, and matchday updates, follow @Sporting_JAX across all social media platforms.

About Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX)

Sporting Club Jacksonville, or “Sporting JAX,” was established in 2020 by a passionate group of Jacksonville-based owners and is driven by a bold vision to elevate the area’s soccer scene and “Lift Every Voice,” the club’s motto. Named in collaboration with the First Coast community in 2023, the club is committed to launching a women’s professional USL Super League club, a men’s professional USL Championship club and USL Youth Academy in Northeast Florida. Through work with city and county governments, Sporting JAX will spearhead the development of a 15,000-capacity community stadium and training facilities, positioning the First Coast as the new premier destination for soccer excellence. For more information, visit www.sportingjax.com.

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Media Contact:
Tiffany Hutto
(904) 571-5659
tiffanyhutto@sjp.com