Learning

Event: Coal Ash Stories Documentary Screening and panel with the filmmaker Date/Time: Monday,  February 1st, 6:30pm Venue: Sun-Ray Cinema, 1028 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 Tickets: Free, RSVP required Contact: www.stjohnsriverkeeper.org Coal ash, the toxic remains of coal burning in power plants, is a hazardous waste. The concentrated substance is a chemical mixture that can cause cancer, developmental disorders, and reproductive problems in humans. It poisons our water and kills fish and wildlife. Finding beneficial uses or proper methods for disposal has become increasingly difficult for coal fired power plants, raising concerns about how this toxic ash could contaminate nearby …

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stand inside a roaring tornado or how an underwater earthquake can trigger a deadly tsunami? The ’s newest traveling exhibit, , explores natural disasters through stunning displays, state-of-the-art animations, poignant, large-scale images and cultural artifacts that reveal the dynamic relationship we have with the Earth. The exhibit is on display through Jan 10, 2016. This month, is partnering with to offer the Kids Free November program, providing free admission for children ages 3 – 12 at participating cultural locations. “It’s a really wonderful opportunity that we are proud to be a part …

Failure to Act Now Is Not an Option BY SHANNON BLANKINSHIP, St. Johns Riverkeeper, Outreach Director It is easy to become single-focused when it comes to the issue that matters most to you. Depending on your background, you probably approach that “issue” differently than others. This is why having 50 different cultural institutions in northeast Florida all work towards the 2015 theme of has been eye opening and inspirational in ways that couldn’t have been predicted. Theatre, music, art exhibits, children’s curriculum, forums, boat tours and festivals have allowed this initiative to reach into every corner of the region, affecting …

By: Amber Sesnick Year of the River has provided a platform for artists, environmentalists, and historians to engage visitors in a dynamic discussion of the , which has been called the cultural current of our city. The river has been an important factor in economic growth, recreation, and creating better quality of life for Jacksonville residents.  Through art and cultural experiences, it has been possible to increase awareness around its importance and well-being. More than 90,000 people from the Jacksonville community were able to view Reflections: Artful Perspectives on the St. Johns River and engage in its related programming. From interpretive dance …

BY MELISSA BEAUDRY, Museum of Science & History Much of Jacksonville’s history revolves around the river, and for , the river acts a major teaching tool for natural science education. As the cultural current of our community, it is a major component to our identity and an aspect of our quality of life. With focusing on the for 2015, it created the avenue for cultural institutions across disciplines to come together in the spirit of collaboration to create innovative programming highlighting the critical health of our river, as well as its tributaries and springs. MOSH hosted exhibitions connected to the …

Cultural Fusion, Year of the River, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens BY LYNDSAY PLEMMONS, Assistant Manager of Marketing at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens what: Jacksonville Manatee Festival when: November 14, 2015, 10am–4pm where: Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens info: www.jacksonvillezoo.org The word “inspiration” is mentioned frequently, especially when talking about important causes like animal conservation. Cultural Fusion and Year of the River have opened our eyes to the idea that everyone becomes inspired in different ways. In many cities, zoos, museums, and cultural groups end up competing over the same customer. Through , we are working to benefit each other …

It always struck me oddly when the bubbled up as a suggestion of where to take out-of-town company. The view is picturesque, and it’s one of the most prized pieces of commercial real estate in the area, but it has never really had a cohesive cultural offering. There have always been restaurants, nightclubs, and live entertainment, but not really anything that struck me as a unique, wholly Jacksonville experience. While there’s nothing particularly wrong with a pitcher and wings at Hooters, it certainly isn’t essential on the things you have to see in Jacksonville tour. However, the tide is changing, …

The Year of the River is an initiative by bringing together more than 50 institutions to raise awareness of the St. Johns River as the “cultural current” of our city and an important driver for economic development, recreation, tourism and quality of life throughout Northeast Florida. @CulturalFusionJax #yotr One of the most unique collaborations surrounding the lineup of activities is the , a family friendly event centered on raising environmental awareness through the arts, education, and music. This event is a partnership between the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the City of Jacksonville’s Environmental Protection Board, which develops …

Celestial Farms is hosting a free family day to benefit the organization’s animal rescue program. Hug-A-Farm-Animal Day is held from 10 am to 3 pm Sept 12 at 13958 Duval Road. Guests are invited to explore the farm and gardens, pet many of the rescued farm animals and stroll through the local vendors and artisans. Children can enjoy the safe, play area and bounce house. Refreshments will be available (www.celestialfarms.org). Founded in 2000, is a therapeutic garden, educational facility and livestock rescue with the simple mission “to grow a brighter future” by providing assistive gardening tools, raised garden beds and …