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Whatever 2014 threw your way, a new year means new possibilities. It’s a chance to start something new, to be a better you. Maybe that’s why New Year’s resolutions are so popular. According to the all-knowing Wiki, about 40% of us make them. Whatever your ideas of self-improvement might be, Downtown Jacksonville will deliver. “In 2015, I will support the arts.” If you hashtagged in 2014, put your resolution where your quick-typing fingers are and spend time perusing ’s contemporary art, then pop over to the at . Take in a show at the historic or at the where you …

One of the best things about Springfield is the personal pride of ownership that shows in the dedication residents put into restoring their own homes, and by extension, the entire community. A valuable resource in this effort is found adjacent to the neighborhood at Eco Relics, 106 Stockton Street in West Riverside.  was established early in 2014 by . The “eco” part is a commitment to keeping usable construction supplies out of landfills and saving as many architectural remnants as possible. Think of it as a time-traveling hardware store and building supply company! Where better to find what you need …

Buy Local, Buy Downtown The Downtown Marketing Collaborative, the originator of the “” campaign, has launched its campaign for the holiday season. This social media campaign will highlight sales, promotions, and unique holiday gifts available from downtown retailers and organizations through December 24. Retro and rockabilly clothes for men and women from , books from , tasty dips and rubs from , a bangle that sparkles from , sports apparel and memorabilia from , and unique candles and lamps from represent only a small sample of the gifts available from Downtown’s retailers. Additionally, gift cards to restaurants, tickets for cultural events, …

Services ’s main street is , with a greater variety of businesses in the one-mile stretch bookended by US-17 and I-10 than in many small towns. Major landmarks along the route from Roosevelt Blvd to Lenox Ave include , , , music venue  with its friendly , Murray Hill branch library, , ,  and even the . The Murray Hill branch library is more important than ever — now that Willow Branch has closed this the closest branch for all of Riverside-Avondale. It’s an early voting location too. Pamper yourself Mixed in with these major structures you’ll find just about …

As a serial renter, I have resided in most of Jacksonville’s urban neighborhoods. I have lived in  for more than three years now, and it is by far the most welcoming neighborhood I’ve inhabited. The business owners remember you and what you like, and the people out and about say “hello” to you on your walk. It is only becoming easier to be a good neighbor, as the local organizations develop a presence online, and we residents are able to come together digitally, as well as personally. In the realm of personal interaction, I went to a  and Friends of …