Community

Jacksonville’s is seen by some as neglected stepchild of , hiding in the shadows of the Northbank’s skyscrapers, underappreciated and mostly passed over. But all the while, one institution has maintained its reputation as a popular destination for adults and children alike: the . While certainly an attraction for children, is in the process of rebranding and repositioning itself as a center for all ages that cultivates a lifelong joy of learning. For several years now, MOSH has hosted its adult-oriented After Dark series of events that reveals the science behind such topics as cocktails, coffee, sharks, and even mixed …

The Southbank area’s history is quite the study in vicissitude, full of highs and lows and ornamented with unfulfilled promises and ideas. It’s a beautiful area and should be one of Jacksonville’s most desirable attractions—you know, that postcard shot. , considered the grandfather of Florida’s major tourist attractions, was once there, but fire destroyed it nearly a century ago. There have been minor victories, mainly River Fountain, but that is a far cry from the Perkins & Perkins Architects-designed “festive waterfront public space,” which opened in 1985 under the leadership of mayor . Wait, so what does this all have …

Invasion of Privacy Preview Party & Fundraiser Friday, June 12, 2015 6:00-8:00 pm $35 per person Meet the director and cast of the award-winning play Invasion of Privacy on Friday, June 12, 2015 from 6-8 pm at the Matheson History Museum. After winning a Pulitzer Prize for The Yearling, was at the height of her career when she was sued in 1946 by her friend, Zelma Cason. This was the first time that a right of privacy case in Florida had been brought against an author, and featured one of Florida’s first female lawyers. The lawsuit pitted a person’s right of privacy against …

Each year, Downtown Vision, Inc. publishes its “State of Downtown” report. The publication analyzes the previous year’s trends and successes, providing a snapshot of  health and progress. Today, we are pleased to release the 2014 report, which covers information on: investment + development office + employment residential culture + entertainment restaurants + retail hotels + convention clean + safe getting around The stars are aligning for Downtown. Investor interest in the riverfront; strengthened connectivity between Downtown and Riverside; and the re-imagination and launch of one-of-a-kind destinations make 2014 a year worth celebrating: The City of Jacksonville and its authorities currently …

CULTURAL COUNCIL ANNOUNCES GREATER JACKSONVILLE CREATIVE ECONOMY $2.4 BILLION IMPACT Job and Sales Numbers Prove Force of Northeast Florida Cultural Sector JACKSONVILLE – The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Inc. is pleased to announce new numbers that tell the exciting story of the creative sector’s impact on the Northeast Florida economy. Cultural Council Executive Director  stood on the steps of the Florida Blue Plaza at  on Monday, May 11th to make the announcement, joined by representatives from JAX Chamber, elected officials, and directors and members of the creative class. Each year, the  assesses the economic impact of the twenty-one nonprofit …

In 1993, the City of Jacksonville had the Clara White Mission in its crosshairs. Mayor Ed Austin’s River City Renaissance plan sought to demolish the Clara White Mission along with the nearly 50 square blocks of  it bulldozed, but a young leader named Ju’Coby Pittman, the Mission’s fourth president, got in the way. Today, the , located at 613 West Ashley Street in the heart of LaVilla, is 111 years old. Its founder, , ran the Mission for 70 years. Along the way, people compared her to Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Jane Addams and Jesus. She wasn’t quite five feet tall, …

Produced by  and held each month from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.—rain or shine—the monthly  spans more than 15 blocks that includes more than 40 galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants, bars and businesses, plus dozens of artists in , street performers and live music. http://jacksonvilleartwalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/MAY-Final-Flyer-WEB.pdf THIS MONTH’S Don’t Miss Venues ‘Nacho’ average fiesta! Grab your sombrero for an art-tastic twist on Cinco de Mayo. Get into the spirit(s) with tequila, piña coladas and cerveza while you shake your maracas to live music by The Chris Thomas Band. The Jalapeño Truck and Latin Soul Grille bring the heat with spicy bites, and Dance …