“Slave Narratives and Folklore” at the Mandarin Museum’s Third Thursday Lecture. Sponsored by the Stetson Kennedy Foundation and performed at the Mandarin Community Club at 12447 Mandarin Rd. The Readers Theater actors will bring individuals to life through dramatic and powerful storytelling. Those who will be portrayed were men and women who had been enslaved and lived to tell their stories in their elderly age in the 1930s. Their stories are shared in Stetson Kennedy’s book The Florida Slave. More information at www.mandarinmuseum.net or 268-0784.  

Meet the Maple Leaf divers, Mandarin Museum, from noon-4.  The Union troop transport was sunk by Confederate mines at Mandarin Point in 1864. View Civil War artifacts and speak personally to the men who recovered them. More information at www.mandarinmuseum.net or 268-0784. Walter Jones Historical Park – 11964 Mandarin Rd. 32223.

RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET CLOSES AT 1 P.M. ON FEBRUARY 25 This Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market closes at 1 p.m. to welcome the Fourth Annual Riverside Craft Beer Festival. The Riverside Craft Beer Festival features beer from more than 100 local, regional and national breweries. The event, hosted by Riverside Rotary Club, takes place under the Fuller Warren Bridge from 4-7 p.m. with VIP access beginning at 3 p.m. Guests can enjoy music from Grandpa’s Cough Medicine and food from ten of Jacksonville’s favorite food trucks. All proceeds from the event benefit Community PedsCare, a nationally recognized program of Community Hospice which provides comfort, care and support for children with life-threatening diseases.   Tickets and details of the event can be found at riversidecraftbeerfestival.com.

March 4, the I Did A Hike.  This is the primary annual fundraiser for the Florida Trail Association (a non-profit). The registration fee is $20.  All proceeds go to supporting the Florida Trail. This year's hike is fairly close by -- along the Suwanee River, near White Springs, FL.  There are three potential hike lengths -- 3, 5 and 8 1/2 miles.  The route is very picturesque, paralleling the Suwanee River in many places. Registration will be at the Heritage Welcome Center, 10499 Spring Street, White Springs, FL, from 8-10am.  Note this is NOT inside the Stephen Foster Cultural Center Park. From the registration area hikers will be ferried to the hike start point. End point is back at the Heritage Welcome Center. Hikers travel at their own pace.  There is minimal change in elevation.  The trail is well marked (blazed) and easy to follow.  Hikers are advised to wear comfortable close toed shoes, dress in layers, wear a hat, and apply sun screen and bug spray. It's also advisable to bring a bottle of water per hiker on the trip and a snack. Hikers can either pack a lunch or purchase lunch in town.   More info can be found at   http://www.floridatrail.org/ididahike2017/

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting March 4, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

GARDEN MONTH KICKOFF & PLANT SALE Saturday, March 4 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Free Admission No registration required   Kick off a month-long celebration of the gardens with a free family day and plant sale! Celebrate the coming of spring by purchasing new plants from local vendors on the front lawn of the Museum. Enjoy “plein air” painting, live music, a family art activity, and garden tours throughout the day!  

Historic 1911 Mandarin Store and Post Office at 12471 Mandarin Rd. is open from 12-4. More information at www.Mandarinmuseum.net or 268-0784

Retro River Run 5K – a throw-back to the 1970s WHAT: Retro River Run 5K hosted by JTC Running WHEN: Saturday, March 4, 2017 6 p.m. WHERE: Jacksonville Landing 2 W. Independent Dr. Jacksonville, FL 32202 DETAILS: The Retro River Run 5K is a run to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Gate River Run. It is on March 4, one week before the city’s premier 15K race. The Retro River Run is open to just 2,204 participants, which is the number of people who ran the very first River Run in 1978. The cost to enter is just five bucks, which was the standard entry fee in the late 1970s. The race begins at 6 p.m. and starts and ends at the Jacksonville Landing. In addition to the run, there will be a 70s-costume contest and the oldest River Run t-shirt contest. Runners can register at www.1stplacesports.com/retro.html.

BANK OF AMERICA AND MERRILL LYNCH MUSEUMS ON US Sunday, March 5 Noon to 4 p.m. | Free to Cardholders No registration required   The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers free admission on the first Sunday of the first full weekend of the month to all Bank of America or Merrill Lynch cardholders through the Museums on Us program. Each cardholder receives one free general admission to the Museum. For more information on the Museum's programming and events, please call 904.899.6038.

“Under the Oaks Music Jam”at Mandarin Museum in Walter Jones Historical Park, 11964 Mandarin Rd. Bring your instrument and join in or just sit and relax and  listen to a song circle of acoustic music and traditional songs. The Mandarin Museum and the 1898 Schoolhouse are open during this time. This is a weather-permitting event. Bring your lawn chair. More information at www.mandarinmuseum.net or 268-0784

When: March 9-12

Where: 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073

At: Orange Park Mall

 

—Under the stunning White & Blue Big Top Tent

 

·                     March 9 – Thursday: 7:30pm

·                     March 10 – Friday: 7:30pm

·                     March 11 – Saturday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm,&  8:30pm

·                     March 12 – Sunday: 2:30pm & 5:30pm

 

Box office hours:

The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show.

Non-show days: 10am – 6pm

On show days: 10am – 9pm

 

You can purchase tickets through our website (cirqueitalia.com/tickets) or by phone: (941) 704-8572. We also respond to text messages.

Non vediamo l'ora di vedervi allo spettacolo!

FLORAL ARRANGING WITH LAURA HALEY Thursday, March 9 1 to 2:30 p.m. | Members $40, Non-Members $50 Registration required   Join Laura Haley, a passionate flower show exhibitor and judge, as well as a teacher of techniques and styles throughout the country, for a unique floral design class using materials you can find at your local grocery store. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038.

GARDEN MONTH CONCERT: THE CHRIS THOMAS BAND Friday, March 10 Doors Open at 6 p.m., Concert from 7 to 9 p.m. | Members $25, Non-Members $35, Table $500 Registration required   Relax under the stars with The Chris Thomas Band! Guests are invited to bring chairs, picnics, and beverages to enjoy an evening in the Cummer Gardens. Don’t feel like packing a picnic? Let the Cummer Café handle your food and beverages by placing an order for pick-up at the Concert. To pre-order, call 904.899.6022 or email cafe@cummermuseum.org. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting March 11, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Freedom Boat Club hosts New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHAT:         Freedom Boat Club will be hosting its New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHEN:         Saturday, March 11, 2017 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.   WHERE:       Freedom Boat Club 12807 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL  32223   DETAILS:  Freedom Boat Club is hosting its New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina. It will be held on Saturday, March 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include free boat rides, including an opportunity to check out the Freedom Boat Hut Tiki Bar Boat. The event is open to the public.

TALKS & TEA CONSTANCE SPRY: THE WOMAN WHO MADE FLOWER ARRANGING AN ART Wednesday, March 15 1:30 p.m. | Members Free, Non-Members $6 Registration required   Constance Spry was a social reformer, whose driving zeal for empowering women to find beauty in the world around them took her from humble origins to household name in Britain. Using kale and weeds as design materials, she made gravy boats, bird cages, and baking sheets into plant containers. Royal weddings were her specialty, and with her friend Syrie Maugham, she was an arbiter of mid-20^th-century interior decoration. Today, she is the style icon on contemporary London blogs. Enjoy a talk by Director of Education Lynn Norris over a cup of tea and a sweet treat. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038.

A Women Business Owners (WBO) of North Florida signature event featuring keynote speakers Audrey Moran, Sr. Vice President, Baptist Foundation and Michele McManamon, co-owner, Sandler Training. To register or for sponsorship opportunities, visit www.wbonfl.org.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS LENTEN FISH DINNER FRIDAY MARCH 17^TH 2017 5:00PM UNTIL ??PM CODY ENRICHMENT CENTER-JOSEPHS CATHOLIC CHURCH $10.00 FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN 6 YRS OF AGE AND OLDER. *CHILDREN 5 YRS OF AGE AND UNDER MEALS ARE FREE* FAMILY SPECIAL $35.00  (FAMILY INCLUDES 2 ADULTS AND ALL FAMILY MEMBERS UP TO THE AGE OF 16) COME AND ENJOY A DELICIOUS FISH DINNER WITH ALL THE FIXINS:                 FRIED OR BAKED FISH, FRENCH FRIES, HUSH PUPPIES, COLE SLAW,                MAC AND CHEESE, TEA AND LEMONADE.       REMEMBER ALL FRIDAYS ARE MEATLESS DURING LENT  SPONSORED BY KNIGHTS of COLUMBUS ST.JOHNS RIVER COUNCIL 10850 PROCEEDS BENEFIT K of C CHARITIES  NEXT FISH FRY MARCH 31ST

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting March 18, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

ART ADVENTURES: GARDEN MONTH! Saturday, March 18 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Members $10, Non-Members $15 Ages 6 through 12 Registration required   Join us on the third Saturday of each month for studio classes. This class will focus on the natural beauty of the Cummer Museum’s historic gardens. Students will visit the galleries to view works inspired by nature. Then they will learn about “plein air” painting as they work from direct observation in the gardens. Projects will be completed within one class period. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630.  

HISTORY OF WESTERN ART AMERICAN ART Tuesday, March 21 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Members Free, Non-Members $10 Registration required   Explore art history through this monthly series of lectures that includes time in the galleries. Although Europe still thinks American Art begins with Abstract Expressionism, America has a rich art tradition. This talk by Director of Education Lynn Norris covers early American Art to John Singer Sargent. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES: ALLEN SMITH NATURALLY: THE LOVE OF GARDENING Wednesday, March 22 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Members $45, Non-Members $55 Registration required  

904. Allen Smith has a passion for American style. Inspired by the ferme ornée concept for Monticello, Smith created his own Moss Mountain Farm as a demonstration ground for principles of good design, conservation, and stewardship. Take a virtual tour of Moss Mountain and see how Smith is creating a new chapter in the evolution of the classic American farm. Lunch in the Olmsted Garden will follow the lecture. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038.

MARCH 23rd Mandarin Women’s Club Luncheon/Tamer Britton Edible Centerpiece Demo 10:30 Ramada Inn Mandarin 3031 Hartley Road RSVP by March 16 to (904) 262-3795 or visit www.mandarinwomensclub.com

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting March 25, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

GARDEN CONSERVANCY’S OPEN DAYS PROGRAM Saturday, March 25 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Members and Non-Members $30 Registration required   Join the Museum as part of the Open Days Program. Make the Cummer Gardens the first stop on your tour of a number of private gardens in the Riverside neighborhood. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand in each garden throughout the day to answer your questions. The Cummer Gardens will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all private gardens will be open from 12 to 4 p.m. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038.

The Ark before Noah   In his lecture, “The Ark before Noah,” British Museum expert Dr. Irving Finkel reveals how decoding the symbols on a 4,000 year old piece of clay enabled a radical new interpretation of the Noah's Ark story.  A world authority on the period, Dr. Finkel's real-life detective story began with a remarkable event at the British Museum: the arrival one day in 2008 of a single, modest-sized Babylonian cuneiform tablet brought in by a member of the public.  Such palm-sized clay rectangles were used by the Babylonians to create the first documents, and this particular tablet proved to be of quite extraordinary importance.  Not only does it date from about 1850 B.C., but it is a copy of the Babylonian Story of the Flood, a story from ancient Mesopotamia revealing, among other things, instructions for constructing a large boat.  Dr. Finkel will also describe the further series of discoveries which allowed him to decode the Flood story in ways which offer unanticipated revelations.  The lecture will also describe how a replica of the boat, following the ancient instructions, was built in India—the subject of the documentary film The Real Noah’s Ark.   The lecture will take place at the University of North Florida, Building 51, on Saturday, March 25, 2017. It will begin at 12:00 PM, and is free and open to the public.  Dr. Finkel will be giving a Norton Lecture, named for Charles Eliot Norton, the founder and first President of the Archaeological Institute of America and former Professor of the History of Art at Harvard University.  The Norton Lectureship is part of the AIA’s National Lecture Program.

New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHAT:         Freedom Boat Club will be hosting its New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHEN:        Sunday, March 26 at Julington Creek Marina 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.   WHERE:      Freedom Boat Club at Julington Creek Marina 12807 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32223   DETAILS:  Freedom Boat Club is hosting New Boater Experience Day at Camachee Cove Marina on Saturday, March 25 and at Julington Creek Marina on Sunday, March 26. Both events will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include free boat rides and refreshments. The event is free and open to the public.

THE SEARCH FOR PARADISE: A HISTORY OF WESTERN GARDENS 19^th AND EARLY 20^th CENTURY ENGLISH GARDENS Tuesday, March 28 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. | Members Free, Non-Members $10   Explore garden history through this four-part lecture series. In the late Victorian and Edwardian garden, flowers came to the forefront as the English landscape garden gave way to the cottage garden. Join Director of Education Lynn Norris to explore the era of country house gardens, designed by J.C. Loudon, William Robinson, Gertrude Jekyll, and Vita Sackville-West, followed by a walk in the Cummer Gardens. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting April 1, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

ANNUAL GREENRIDGE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE SATURDAY APRIL 1st AT 8:00 AM TAKE SR 13 TO ROBERTS ROAD TO THE GREENRIDGE SUBDIVISION OR TAKE CR 210/GREENBRIAR ROAD TO LONGLEAF PINE PARKWAY TO ROBERTS ROAD TO THE GREENRIDGE SUBDIVISION

Run 13.1 and 5K hosted by 1^st Place Sports   WHAT:            Run 13.1 and 5K hosted by 1^st Place Sports   WHEN:            Sunday, April 2, 2017                         13.1 and 5K at 7 a.m.   WHERE:         Jacksonville Landing 2 W. Independent Dr. Jacksonville, FL 32202   DETAILS:       The Run 13.1 and 5K will be held on Sunday, April 2 and each race will take off at the same time from the Jacksonville Landing. Runners participating in the half marathon will run through Downtown streets, loop through Evergreen Cemetery and then return to the finish line. The 5K course will take runners through the streets of Downtown Jacksonville and back to the finish line at the Jacksonville Landing.   Participants will receive a moisture-wicking, technical shirt and finishers get one of the biggest finisher medals in Jacksonville races. Half marathon runners also have a chance to win up to $300 if they are the first to reach the finish line. Awards will also be given out to age groups for the half marathon and the top runners in the 5K will get award plaques. A post-race celebration will be held at the Jacksonville Landing and features music, beer, and food.   To register, go to www.1stplacesports.com/run13point1.html. The entrance fee to the half marathon is $50 through March 25 and $55 through April 1. The price goes up to $60 on the day of the race. The entrance fee for the 5K is $33 through March 25, $35 through April 1 and $40 on race day. Race packets can be picked up on Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1 at the 1^st Place Sports location of your choice from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They will be moved to the race site on race day and can be picked up starting at 5:30 a.m.

Join Cummer Amelia for the 3^rd Annual Garden Walk at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Residential Community on Friday, April 7, 2017. This event supports school tours for Nassau County students, which both enrich their curriculum and broaden their worldview. The Garden Walk is $20 for Cummer Amelia Member and $30 for Non-Members, and will take place from 12:30 to 4 p.m. The event begins with a presentation by renowned Omni Chef Daven Wardynski held at the Omni Aquaponic Greenhouse, followed by a walking tour of four beautiful home gardens, each with their own unique charm. Art demonstrations, live music, food, and drink will be provided along the tour route. Trolley transportation is also available.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting April 8, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Multi Family Moving/Yard Sale Southern Grove subdivision at 612 Southern Lily Drive, 1-1/2 miles West of I-95 on CR 210 Friday April, 14th, 8-1 Saturday April, 15th, 8-3 • Furniture: Patio Love Seat and Coffee Table, Black Leather Recliner (minor blemish on headrest) • Lamps/Lights, Chandeliers, • Jewelry • Women’s Business and Casual Attire, Denim and Golf Attire Sizes 8-14, $5.00 and Under, Some never worn (with tags) • CharBroil Electric Grill- Excellent condition • Assorted Household Items and decor • Sunbeam Portable Quartz Heater (just in time for Summer…LOL) Many more items not posted. LOOK FOR THE BRIGHT SIGNS! Come one, come all! Bring your Easter company. They’ll find something they absolutely cannot live without, and so will you. LOL Everything BUT the wife must go! After 12:00 on Saturday, MAKE BEST OFFER!!! IT’S GOTTA GO!!!

Earth Day Environmental Challenge Weekend April 21-22 at Galimore Center April 22^nd is Earth Day, and once again Lincolnville’s Willie Galimore Center, 399 Riberia Street, will be the venue of an Environmental Challenge Weekend, providing educational and entertaining fun for the whole family. The two-day event will include a forum on Friday evening, followed by a March for Science and activities day on Saturday.  All events are free and open to the public.

UPSCALE RESALE ITALIANO Apr 22, 8am-4pm, Giant yard sale, Italian food, bakery, souvenirs. Italian American Clubhouse, 2838 Westberry Rd, Jax, 32223, Mandarin. Collectibles, jewelry, homegoods, tools, small appliances, medical, accessories, etc.

Saturday, April 22, 2017, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM    Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 by participating in Shearwater’s 5K on the Trails and Fun Run/Walk. Shearwater is one of St. Johns County’s fastest selling communities.  This race will stretch through portions of Shearwater’s nature trails and boardwalks, continuing almost a mile along Trout Creek under shaded tree canopy.  Many of Shearwater’s wide paths border preserved natural habitat. Stay after the race to enjoy craft beer and root beer floats, tasty food trucks, and a DJ-provided soundtrack. Proceeds from the event will benefit Timberlin Creek Elementary School, Switzerland Point Middle School, and Bartram Trail High School. Custom medals will be awarded to the first 200 finishers! Where: Shearwater Kayak Club 100 Kayak Way St. Augustine, FL 32092   Cost: 5K Run | 8:00 am - $20 Early Registration until April 14, 2017 at midnight - $25 April 14-21, 9:00 a.m. EST - Includes an event T-shirt and pint glass (21+) for the first 200 entries.   Fun Run | 9:00 am - $10 Registration Fee - Includes an event t-shirt only. Tickets: http://shearwater5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=8399 Event url: shearwater5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=8399

Cypress Trace Association Community Garage Sale 201 Big Cypress Dr. N, St. Johns, FL 32259 Saturday, April 22nd from 8-1.

  Freedom Boat Club hosts celebration on the water at Julington Creek Marina   With the cancellation of the Southeast U.S. Boat Show, Freedom Boat Club has decided to instead host a celebration on the water at Julington Creek Marina. Everyone is invited to come out to the marina at 12807 San Jose Boulevard on Saturday, April 22 and Sunday, April 23 for a day of fun on the water. Freedom Boat Club will be hosting the event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. The SmileFish Mirror photo booth will be set up at the dock. It looks like a stand-up iPod and allows guests to take selfies in the ‘mirror’ and print them out. In additional to the boat rides and unique photo booth, guests can also enjoy food from Manny’s Cuban Sandwich’s food truck. The food truck was also scheduled to be at the Southeast U.S. Boat Show, but will now be serving on Saturday at Julington Creek Marina.

The Archaeological Institute of America--Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on April 22, 2017 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. William Keegan, a professor of Caribbean archaeology with the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville.  The lecture is titled "Columbus and Cannibals in the Land of Cotton."  In the decade prior to the 500^th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage there was a mad scramble to “discover” where Columbus made first landfall in the Americas.  Historians, geographers, geologists, navigators, computer specialists, journalists, and even archaeologists joined the hunt. Three locations still claim that honor. However, in the process of trying to solve this mystery, it became clear that virtually everything we thought we knew about Columbus was wrong.  This lecture focuses on archaeology's contributions to revealing the mysteries surrounding Columbus's voyages.  In the process Dr. Keegan will take the audience through lands of cotton and cannibals, and explore new research into production and exchange in the prehistoric Caribbean. The lecture is free and open to the public.  Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab.  On Saturday, parking is free and the faculty /staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com

  Freedom Boat Club hosts celebration on the water at Julington Creek Marina With the cancellation of the Southeast U.S. Boat Show, Freedom Boat Club has decided to instead host a celebration on the water at Julington Creek Marina. Everyone is invited to come out to the marina at 12807 San Jose Boulevard on Saturday, April 22 and Sunday, April 23 for a day of fun on the water. Freedom Boat Club will be hosting the event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. The SmileFish Mirror photo booth will be set up at the dock. It looks like a stand-up iPod and allows guests to take selfies in the ‘mirror’ and print them out. In additional to the boat rides and unique photo booth, guests can also enjoy food from Manny’s Cuban Sandwich’s food truck. The food truck was also scheduled to be at the Southeast U.S. Boat Show, but will now be serving on Saturday at Julington Creek Marina.

For Asher's Sake hosts Cuts for a Cause Benefiting Autism. Sunday, April 23rd 2:00pm - 5:00pm The Fine Grooming Studio, 9400 Atlantic Blvd, Ste 70 Hair Cuts - Kids: $10  Adults: $20  

27^TH Mandarin Women’s Club Game Day Luncheon 10:30 a.m. Ramada Inn Mandarin 3031 Hartley Road (904) 262-3795 or www.mandarinwomensclub.com

The Party of the Decades is set for Friday, April 28, 2017, from 6:30 p.m to 10:30 p.m, starting in the Roaring 20s, moving into the Groovy 60s and finishing in the Rockin’ 80s. Participants are encouraged to dress the part of their favorite decade at the Anheuser-Busch brewery, where there will be live music in the style of each of the decades along with free food and drinks. Tickets will be available at three different levels; level one will allow access into the Roaring 20s party, level two allows entry into the 20s and a move into the Groovy 60s, and the all-access pass will move guests through all the decades. For those who get stuck in the 20s, there will be an opportunity to upgrade to move into the 60s or all the way through to the 80s. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit www.partyofthedecades.com. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more, contact Leigha Ward at leigha.ward@cfmedia.net. Party of the Decades is an exclusive event and you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase a ticket and participate.

RIVERSIDE AVONDALE PRESERVATION SPRING TOUR OF HOMES   Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP) is pleased to announce the annual Spring Tour of Homes on April 29-30. For the 43rd year, neighbors will be graciously opening their doors to visitors in support of RAP's largest fundraiser. Join us this year for one of our most spectacular Tours. This year’s event features eleven homes, three commercial locations, multiple featured locations, and more!

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting April 29, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Freedom Boat Club hosts New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHAT:         Freedom Boat Club will be hosting its New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina   WHEN:         Saturday, April 29, 2017 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.   WHERE:       Julington Creek Marina 12807 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL  32223   DETAILS:  Freedom Boat Club is hosting its New Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina. It will be held on Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include free boat rides and refreshments. The event is open to the public.

Yard Sale for Charity hosted by the Sanneman family. Sunday only – 9-3, 2838 Westberry Rd (Italian American Club) Many families have donated items for this great cause! Furniture, clothing, tools, golf clubs, knick knacks, books, kitchen gadgets…. Come out and support the cause – give a $5 donation and get a hot dog, chips and a drink.

  FROM THE OFFICE OF COUNCILMAN MATT SCHELLENBERG COUNTY DOCK REZONING COMMUNITY MEETING SCHEDULED       Mandarin Community Club 12447 Mandarin Rd.  Date:  Monday, May 1st, 2017 Time: 7 - 8:30 pm     Please contact my office at 630-1388 or via email matts@coj.net if you have additional questions.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting May 6, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

The Art of Taking Tea A Dinner Time Tea and Talk Hosted by the Lightner Museum   Wednesday May 10, 2017, from 5:30 – 7:30 P.M., Lightner Museum’s Historic Pool Area, St. Augustine, FL:  The Lightner Museum will be hosting an evening of education and entertainment for participants to learn about the development and social customs of  “taking tea” - whether Afternoon, High, or a working class dinner tea- while also enjoying period-correct food and service.   The event will be presented by Ms. Graham in coordination with the Cafe’ Alcazar.  The Garden Club of St. Augustine will assist in educating participants on the proper methods of setting a table and decorating with flowers for such occasions. Teas from Cultivate Tea & Spice Co. will be featured. Cost for this event is $50 per person which includes an array of teas, tea sandwiches, scones, and cakes.  Champagne may be purchased for an additional $5 per glass.  

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting May 13, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting May 20, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Jacksonville Record & CD Festival May 20, 2017 9:00 am-4:00 pm Ramada Inn Mandarin (comedy zone) 3130 Hartley Rd (I-295 & San Jose Blvd) Free admission, free parking Jacksonville Record & CD Festival is a music collectors dream event! 45 tables of LPs, CDs, 45s, 78s, EPs, Posters, Autographs, Memorabilia, Tie-Dye, Rock 'n" Roll Clothing, Turntables, Collecting Supplies, Posters and almost anything else music related! Come on out to this free event, with plenty of free parking, and dig through bins and crates of thousands and thousands of records, both old and new! Find thousands of shiny silver CDs and a few gold ones as well! This is Jacksonville's largest record collectors event, held in the clean and comfortable ballroom at the Ramada Inn in Mandarin, next to the Comedy Zone!  Music, door prizes and so much more!   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1373034626103110/

Search for Red Knots at Huguenot Park- Field Trip with Duval Audubon

WhenSun, May 21, 8:30am – 9:30am WhereHuguenot Park- Field Trip with Duval Audubon DescriptionAn RSVP is requested for this trip in the case that the meeting location information changes. Huguenot Park is a stopover for the hungry migrating Red Knots. Royal Terns and Laughing Gulls are also actively courting and this is a spectacular and unforgettable event!  Many photographic opportunities abound at this park so it is well worth the drive! Huguenot Memorial Park is one of the best places to see seabirds and shorebirds, and we hope to see a lot of them! We will meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot before the pay station. Drive straight in instead of turning right into the pay lane. We will spend a few minutes there and then go out to the end of the bay. Directions: Huguenot Park is located on A1A north of the Mayport ferry. If you cross the Dames Point Bridge going north, exit right (east) on Heckscher Drive. Follow it past the ferry slip to the blinking yellow light before Fort George Inlet. Turn right into the clearly marked entrance and go straight to the first parking lot. From I-95, take Zoo Parkway/Heckscher Drive to 10980 Heckscher Drive, entrance at the blinking light on the right. Location 10980 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, FL. We plan to meet at 8:00 a.m. at the parking lot outside the entrance gate Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle Call Jean Rolke at 904-504-1240 if you are interested in carpooling. The less vehicles we take the better!

MAY 25th Mandarin Women’s Club Luncheon/Sapphire Quartet 10:30 a.m. Ramada Inn Mandarin 3031 Hartley Road RSVP by May 18 to (904) 993-7649

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting June 3, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Birds & Breakfast - End of Season Event When Sat, June 3, 9am – 11am Where RSVP REQUIRED Description BIRDS & BREAKFAST EVENT Saturday, June 3rd 9:00 – 11:00 In Fruit Cove (See Below) -Bird Walk starts at 9:00 am. -Breakfast at 10:00 am. -General Membership Meeting. Breakfast will be provided by our generous Audubon Chapter Members Louann and Ben Williams. This will be our final weekend event before the summer heat begins. An RSVP is required to receive directions to this event. Please RSVP to DEBBIECUSICK@YMAIL.COM We Look Forward to Seeing You! For more information call 904-504-1240

Grand Opening of Space Base Jacksonville June 3rd 1pm-4pm 2777 University Blvd., W Jacksonville, FL 32217

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting June 10, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

The St. Johns Chapter of the Catholic Writers Guild (CWG) invites aspiring writers, poets, composers, musicians & all interested other artists to join us for our monthly meeting on Saturday, June 10 from 10:00 am to noon in the school auditorium at St. Paul’s Church, Riverside, 2609 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204.

 

Featured Speaker – Bart Price

 

Topic – Appreciating the Beauty and Power of Poetry. 

It is a race with a sweet reward; the Run for the Pies hosted by 1^st Place Sports. The run, which is on June 10 at The Jacksonville Landing, was started in 1979 and includes a Nike Championship Race and an Open 5K. All runners have the chance to win money, awards and pies. The entrance fee is $30 from June 1 through June 9 and $35 on the day of the race. Runners can register at  http://1stplacesports.com/races/pies/.   The Nike Championship Race is open only to those elite runners who have hit certain times in a 5K within the last year. For men, they must have run a 5K under 17 minutes and women will have had to run a 5K under 20 minutes. Nike running shoes will be given to each man who breaks 16:15 and each female who breaks 19:00. This race gets underway at 7 p.m. and the course is five loops, which makes it ideal for spectating.   The Open 5K is open to all runners and walkers, except those who participated in the Nike Championship Race. The run begins at 7:30 p.m. and all finishers will receive a custom designed medal. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each age group. Organizers will be handing out 200 pies to men who finish under 20 minutes and females who finish under 24 minutes, while the pies last. After the race, stick around for the block party, which begins at 8 p.m. and includes free beer for the runners and a pie eating contest. 1^st Place Sports will also be hosting a huge raffle with a chance to win prizes including running clothes, running shoes, bags, and more. Run for the Pies is a grand prix event. Sponsors include Nike, Tropical Smoothie Café, Moe’s Southwest Grille, Massage Envy, Montoya & Associates, Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute, Admira Dentistry, Orange Theory Fitness, Publix and WJXT.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting June 17, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting June 24, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Event Name: Freedom Festival   Location: Orange Park Mall, 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073   Event Date: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.   Phone: (904) 269-9413   URL: http://orangeparkmall.com/events-news/event/freedom-festival-w-food-truck-wars  

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting July 8, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting July 15, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Date: Saturday July 15 Time: 8am - 1pm Location: 11898 Remsen Rd, 32223 (Mandarin) Community-Donated Garage sale to help raise money for adoption! Tons of amazing stuff!! Come check out to support a wonderful cause.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting July 22, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting July 29, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258   Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Toast of Jax Toastmasters Meeting August 5, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

August 12, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

The St. Johns Chapter of the Catholic Writers Guild (CWG) invites aspiring writers, poets, composers, musicians & all interested other artists to join us for our monthly meeting on Saturday, August 12 from 10:00 am to noon in the school auditorium at St. Paul’s Church, Riverside, 2609 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204.   Featured Speaker – Paula Babadi   Topic – Blogging.  

Beginner Line Dancing, Tues 10:00 am and Fri 12:30 pm.  $4.00 per class per person.  11940 San Jose Blvd, First Christian Church. $1.00 of this fee is a donation to the church.  Contact Barb Kelley @bootsbarb194@comcast.net

What: SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS TO GO! Authentic Italian take-out dinners $7. When: Friday August 18, 2017 5:00--7:00pm Where: Italian American Club 2838 Westberry Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223 Why:  Get out of the kitchen...let the Italianos cook for you!

August 19, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Beginner Line Dancing, Tues 10:00 am and Fri 12:30 pm.  $4.00 per class per person.  11940 San Jose Blvd, First Christian Church. $1.00 of this fee is a donation to the church.  Contact Barb Kelley @bootsbarb194@comcast.net

August 26, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Baha’i Community Center of Jacksonville 5034 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Toast of Jax Toastmasters club helps adults improve their communication, leadership, and presentation skills in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please visit our website www.toastofjax.org.

Music: Mini Moments at JCDS! September 8, 2017 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Come gather round the drums! This developmental music and movement class will have you and your child singing, dancing, and learning to make rhythmic and tonal patterns, playing instruments, and using fun props together with music. Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

Archaeologist to Discuss Middle Preclassic Maya Development in Belize The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Sept. 16, 2017, in Building 51 at UNF to hear a lecture by Dr. Terry G. Powis from Kennesaw State University titled “Early Monumental Construction and Middle Preclassic Maya Development at Pacbitun, Belize.”  Initial occupation there in the 9^th century B.C. begins with the construction of domestic structures focusing on the mass production of shell bead adornments. Then we see the erection of the first non-domestic buildings during the next two centuries. The first temples built are truly monumental in size and provide a glimpse into the nature, structure, and extent of sociopolitical changes at the site throughout the Middle Preclassic (800-400 BC) period. Powis compares these transformations to other sites in the Belize Valley and elsewhere in hopes of identifying similar patterns of early Maya sociopolitical development. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab.  On Saturday, parking is free and the staff/faculty/vendor spaces are open to everyone.  For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Come join the fun at the 29th Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Show & Sale.  There will be jewelry making classes & lapidary demos, NASA Moon Rock and Space Shuttle Tire, rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, beads and jewelry galore.  $5 a day or $8 for all three days.  Children under 12 free with guardian.  $1 off for Senior & Military with ID.  JGMS is a not for profit  501(c)3 organization.  Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm . View more information at (www.jaxgemandmineral.org) Dates 9/22,23,24/2017 The Morocco Shrine 3800 St. Johns Bluff Road South Jacksonville, FL  32224

Come join the fun at the 29th Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Show & Sale.  There will be jewelry making classes & lapidary demos, NASA Moon Rock and Space Shuttle Tire, rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, beads and jewelry galore.  $5 a day or $8 for all three days.  Children under 12 free with guardian.  $1 off for Senior & Military with ID.  JGMS is a not for profit  501(c)3 organization.  Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm . View more information at (www.jaxgemandmineral.org) Dates 9/22,23,24/2017 The Morocco Shrine 3800 St. Johns Bluff Road South Jacksonville, FL  32224

Freedom Boat Club will host the fifth annual Boat-A-Bration on Saturday, Sept. 23 Freedom Boat Club is hosting Boat-A-Bration at Julington Creek Marina on Saturday, Sept. 23. The customer appreciation event will be held on from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. This is the fifth year the boating club has invited everyone out to the raft-up in front of Julington Creek Marina at 12807 San Jose Blvd. “This is just a great way for everyone to get together, but we want to remind everyone to take caution on the water and watch out for debris from the hurricane,” said Lisa Almeida, co-owner of Freedom Boat Club Jacksonville and St. Augustine. “The raft-up will coincide with our New Boater Experience Day, when we invite the public to come out and enjoy a free boat ride with us.” The 2017 Boat-A-Bration will feature a raft-up, live music from the Big Jeff Band on a floating stage, plus refreshments. Freedom Boat Club is also hosting the New Boater Experience Day, which is a free event open to the public. It features free boat rides and refreshments at the dock from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., including rides on the Freedom Boat Hut, Freedom Boat Club’s floating tiki bar. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/289267598214890 or contact Lisa the Boatanista at 904-588-2417 or l.almeida@freedomboatclub.com.

Come join the fun at the 29th Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Show & Sale.  There will be jewelry making classes & lapidary demos, NASA Moon Rock and Space Shuttle Tire, rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, beads and jewelry galore.  $5 a day or $8 for all three days.  Children under 12 free with guardian.  $1 off for Senior & Military with ID.  JGMS is a not for profit  501(c)3 organization.  Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm . View more information at (www.jaxgemandmineral.org) Dates 9/22,23,24/2017   The Morocco Shrine 3800 St. Johns Bluff Road South Jacksonville, FL  32224

A CLASSIC THEATRE AUDITIONS ACT will hold auditions for the first two productions of the 2017-18 season on Thursday, September 28 at 6:30pm and Saturday, September 30 at 1:00pm at the St. Augustine Beach City Hall Community Room, 2200 A1A South (at A1A and 16^th Street), St. Augustine Beach Be prepared to read from the script.  Bring a current headshot and resume.   “The Real Housewives of Tennessee (Williams)” Conceived and directed by Kathryn Masters Production Scheduled for: Early December 2017 Roles for:  Male and Female Adult Actors Two acts of selections from Williams’ one-acts which feature Williams’ wonderfully complex women.   “Intimate Apparel” by Lynn Nottage Production Scheduled for February 2018 Roles for 2 M 4 F Esther, African American, mid-30’s Mrs. Dickson, African American, 50’s Mrs. Van Buren, Caucasian American 30’s Mayme, African American, 30’s Mr. Marks, Romanian Orthodox Jewish immigrant George, Barbadian immigrant, 30’s   ACT is also seeking those interested in working with us as directors, stage help, stage managers, costume coordinators, and anyone who has muscle…a truck…and time on their hands for occasional physical workouts in loading in and setting up lighting equipment in the performance venues.   If you have questions, email us at aclassictheatre@hotmail.com. www.aclassictheatre.org

2017 St Johns River Bartram Frolic on the Riverfront in Palatka, Florida September 30 and October 1 Celebrate the fabulous St. Johns River and the 243rd anniversary of William Bartram's visit to Palatka. In the fall of 1774 William Bartram experienced what is known as the Indian Frolic at Spalding’s Lower Store. His 9-month stay on his favorite river in Putnam County is documented in Bartram’s masterpiece Travels. The annual St. Johns River Bartram Frolic on Palatka’s riverfront will celebrate our National Heritage River, the Bartram National Recreation Trail in Putnam County, and offer our county as a historic eco-tourism and recreation destination. For more information, visit us on the web at bartram.putnam-fl.com or call (386) 326-2704

11th Annual Holiday Shopper’s Expo Saturday, September 30, 2017 9 am – 3 pm FREE Admission   San Juan del Rio Parish 1718 State Road 13 Saint Johns, Florida 32259   Sponsored by the SJDR Ladies Auxiliary

A CLASSIC THEATRE AUDITIONS   ACT will hold auditions for the first two productions of the 2017-18 season on Thursday, September 28 at 6:30pm and Saturday, September 30 at 1:00pm at the St. Augustine Beach City Hall Community Room, 2200 A1A South (at A1A and 16^th Street), St. Augustine Beach   Be prepared to read from the script.  Bring a current headshot and resume.   “The Real Housewives of Tennessee (Williams)” Conceived and directed by Kathryn Masters Production Scheduled for: Early December 2017 Roles for:  Male and Female Adult Actors Two acts of selections from Williams’ one-acts which feature Williams’ wonderfully complex women.   “Intimate Apparel” by Lynn Nottage Production Scheduled for February 2018 Roles for 2 M 4 F Esther, African American, mid-30’s Mrs. Dickson, African American, 50’s Mrs. Van Buren, Caucasian American 30’s Mayme, African American, 30’s Mr. Marks, Romanian Orthodox Jewish immigrant George, Barbadian immigrant, 30’s   ACT is also seeking those interested in working with us as directors, stage help, stage managers, costume coordinators, and anyone who has muscle…a truck…and time on their hands for occasional physical workouts in loading in and setting up lighting equipment in the performance venues.   If you have questions, email us at aclassictheatre@hotmail.com. www.aclassictheatre.org

FALL Cormorant Landing COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, October 7th,  8 am-1pm.  Located off Marbon Road, 9/10th of a mile east from San Jose Blvd. Front Gate access opens at 7:50 am. Come find some wonderful treasures!

Mandarin United Methodist Church 11270 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 (From I-295 go south on San Jose Blvd 1/2 mile on right) Saturday, October 7, 2017 9:00 am - 4:00 pm All Hand Crafted Items: 100+ Crafters, clothing, jewelry, food, seasonal gifts, baked goods, children's shop, country store & much more! All proceeds support UMW Mission Projects *No Pets Allowed*

October 20 - 22, 2017 Enjoy carnival rides, midway games, a rummage sale, food and more at the 2017 San Juan del Rio Fall Festival! Free and open to the public; ride tickets, game tickets and food available for purchase at the event. For more information, please visit our website sanjuandr.wixsite.com/fallfestival or Facebook www.facebook.com/SJDRFallFestival.

PE: Mini Moments at JCDS! October 20, 2017 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Let’s get physical! This energizing movement class uses a variety of materials (balls, hula hoops, tumbling mats, etc.) to help develop gross motor skills. Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

26^th Mandarin Women’s Club features artist Kathy Stark Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by October 19; gerimarch23@gmail.com or (904) 993-7649

Storytime: Mini Moments at JCDS! November 10, 2017 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Reading rocks! You and your child will enjoy stories, songs, puppets, shaky eggs and much more! Come join us for a relaxing, fun morning in this age appropriate storytime class. Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

The Mandarin Museum & Historical Society invites all to the 18th Annual Winter Celebration in Mandarin from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM on Saturday, December 2. This free event has become a family tradition for many and is well known for old-fashioned fun, including: tours of all 19^th century historic buildings in the Walter Jones Historical Park, reenactors, music (including African drumming and acoustic jam), children’s games and crafts, Plein Aire artists in the park, horse drawn hay rides, weaving, antique cars and more. It is held at the Walter Jones Historical Park, located at 11964 Mandarin Rd. For details and a schedule of music call 268-0784 or www.mandarinmuseum.net/calendar/winter-celebration.

Address: Beaches Baptist Hospital on 13th (In the Wilson Epstein Building - rear entrance), EVERY Monday from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Email: Cgsm13@yahoo.com

Medtronic Leaders Toastmasters Club
Address: Nelson Auditorium, 6621 Charing St. Jacksonville, Fl. 32216, EVERY Wednesday from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Email: Cgsm13@yahoo.com

Learning Centers: Mini Moments at JCDS! February 16, 2018 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Play in Pre-K! You and your child will have the chance to explore different materials in an open center time just like the children do in the Pre-K classes at JCDS. There will be light exploration, artistic centers, building centers and more!  Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

Art: Mini Moments at JCDS! March 9, 2018 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Let’s get artsy! This art class will educate you and your child about a famous artist while experimenting with different materials in a developmentally friendly way to create a beautiful art piece inspired by that artist.  Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

Yoga: Mini Moments at JCDS! April 20, 2018 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Namaste… Come enjoy a different spin on yoga with your child. This children’s yoga class includes songs and stories while learning some of the basics of yoga practice.  Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644  

HarborChase of Mandarin, a local senior living community, is hosting “Apple Fest,” a special fall celebration, on Saturday, October 20 from 11am-3pm. The celebration will feature live entertainment, games, prizes, hot apple cider and a variety of apple desserts. The event is free and open to the general public. HarborChase is managed by Harbor Retirement Associates (HRA), a regional senior living development and management company based in Vero Beach, Florida. “Fall is here again and we’re excited to invite families from across the area to come and join us for this fun and festive celebration,” said Katherine Schachter, Executive Director of HarborChase of Mandarin. “It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy hot apple cider, fresh-baked apple pie and all things apple-related. This special event is a great opportunity to meet new friends and experience the amazing hospitality of HarborChase.” The special celebration of the season will feature live entertainment, games, prizes, hot apple cider and a variety of apple desserts and treats. Guests will receive a fresh-baked apple tart or apple pie to take home. This special event is free and open to the general public. Community tours will be available. Space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, call (904) 584-9830. Located at 12350 San Jose Blvd., HarborChase of Mandarin features 24-hour staff, supportive services, scheduled transportation daily, housekeeping service, concierge services and the exclusive Chef’s Fare Dining program with customized dining experiences in multiple restaurants. It also includes HarborChase’s signature Life Enrichment program, designed to provide social, devotional, fitness and recreational opportunities that have a positive impact on residents. For more information on HarborChase of Mandarin, visit www.HarborChaseMandarin.com. 

On Saturday, Oct. 20, Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Halloween Doors & More will transform the Jacksonville Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall into a galaxy far, far away. As an homage to the cinematic classic “Star Wars,” this year’s theme is “May The Doors Be With You.”

Northeast Florida’s premier Halloween event, Halloween Doors & More, is truly a gala of a different sort where guests are sure to see huge smiles on the faces of children and adults alike. Made possible by the 2018 presenting sponsor, THE PLAYERS Championship, at this year’s star-studded event, kids and parents will enjoy a day of magic, fantasy and so much more.

“Halloween Doors and More is truly a magical event,” said Sheila Rice, 2018 event chair of Halloween Doors & More. “Our dedicated group of volunteers works hard to deliver an amazing experience. To see the joy on the faces of the PedsCare patients, their families and our guests, is truly heartwarming.”

Get ready for a stellar soiree with more than 12 fun attractions with candy, toys, food, interactive experiences, live characters and even an adult-friendly area to unwind. The Force will be with you as you dance in the Troll Family Disco, get a “spook-tacular” makeover at the Booutiful Salon and enjoy delicious food and live entertainment. This event promises to have something for everyone in your family!

Proceeds from Halloween Doors & More benefit Community PedsCare, a program of Community Hospice supporting children living with serious illnesses and their families. About 94 percent of the costs incurred by Community PedsCare are not reimbursed by insurance.

Halloween Doors & More is one of the most unique charity fundraising events Jacksonville has to offer. Admission and sponsorships help fund quality palliative and hospice care for medically complex children and their families through Community PedsCare.

Tickets are $100 for adults, $50 for children and children under two are free. To purchase admission and sponsorship for Halloween Doors & More, please call 904.886.3883 or visit HDM.CommunityHospice.com.

WHAT:          Hurricane Michael Goods and Donation Drive; Family Support Services of North Florida (FSSNF) and Children’s Home Society of Florida (CHS) kick off drive to help foster families and case management staff at Big Bend Community Based Care WHERE:       Drop off location: Children's Home Society of Florida located at 3027 San Diego Road, Jacksonville FL 32207. WHO:             Family Support Services of North Florida                         Children’s Home Society of Florida, Northeast Florida                         Big Bend Community Based Care  WHEN:          Wednesday, October 17, 2018 through Tuesday, October 30, 2018 Please email or call the above contact for media interviews. JACKSONVILLE, FL - THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2018: In a response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Michael, Family Support Services of North Florida and Children’s Home Society of Florida have teamed up to host a supply drive to benefit foster families, children and case management staff affiliated with Big Bend Community Based Care (BBCBC) who were affected by the storm. Big Bend Community Based Care is the FSS counterpart, serving foster families and children in northwest Florida. Many of its foster families and staff have been displaced. To support BBCBC, Family Support Services and Children’s Home Society of Florida have asked the northeast Florida community to contribute by donating the supplies listed below: Bath-sized towels and washcloths Gift cards Children’s shoes (all sizes) Socks (all sizes) Paper goods (toilet paper, plates, paper towel, bowls, cutlery) Air mattresses (twin and full) Sheets and pillowcases Comforters/pillows Sleeping bags Toiletries (deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, brushes, ETC) Food/drinks (self-opening canned goods, sealed crackers, peanut butter, chips and snacks, non-chocolate candy, individual juices (no refrigeration needed), powdered drink mix) Garbage bags Diapers/Pull-ups (all sizes/ages) Baby wipes Coloring/activity books/crayons (for kids) Batteries (C, D and AA) First-aid kits Flashlights Coolers (small) Ziploc bags (all sizes) Cleaning supplies (Clorox Wipes, Bleach, mops, Pine Sol or Lysol) Hand sanitizer Laundry Detergent/dryer sheets Donations can be dropped off at Children's Home Society of Florida located at 3027 San Diego Road, Jacksonville FL 32207 Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm at the Andrews Center - Building D onsite at CHS. If community members would like to contribute monetary donations that go directly to foster care youth and families in need in the affected areas, they can go to: http://flchildren.org/hurricanerelief/ Please call FSSNF at 904-418-5837 for any additional information. FSS is the lead agency for foster care, adoption and family preservation in Duval and Nassau counties. For more information about FSS, visit www.fssjax.org.

University of Florida Black Alumni to Host Florida-Georgia Tailgate JACKSONVILLE, FL – The University of Florida Association of Black Alumni Jacksonville chapter (UF ABA Jax) will host its first FREE Gator Nation tailgate and watch party on Saturday, October 27, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Veterans Memorial Arena plaza, the official site of the University of Florida Alumni Tailgating. Our gathering will be set up near the main entrance doors on A. Philip Randolph Blvd. This party is open to the public. BYOB and lawn chairs, play yard games, dominoes, dance, win Gator swag and more. Cherry's Seafood (The Red Truck) and My Season's Barbeque food trucks will be on site. We will have a TV to watch the game when it kicks-off at 3 p.m. UF ABA Jax is offering parking spaces for purchase at $70.00 each, located within a 10 minute walk from our tailgate. Please buy in advance by emailing Marques Wilkes at ufabajax@gmail.com. We will not sell spaces on game-day. For media access on game-day, please contact Publicity Chair Carla Jones at 904-504-8816. University of Florida Association of Black Alumni - Jacksonville an affiliate of the University of Florida Alumni Association Follow us on social media: Facebook - Facebook Page @UFABAJax Instagram - Instagram Page @UFABAJax Carla Jones Entrepreneur Journalist/Publicist C: 904-504-8816

WHAT:          Halloween Adoption Event; local foster children find a forever home just in time to celebrate Halloween WHERE:       Duval County Courthouse - Judge Gooding Family Courtroom 204 501 W. Adams St., Downtown Jacksonville WHO:             Costumed foster children and their adoptive families            The Hon. David Gooding Bob Miller, CEO, Family Support Services of North Florida WHEN:          Wednesday, October 31, 2018 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – media interviews with families and Judge Gooding Contact FSS by October 30^th to schedule an interview. Adoption proceedings will begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. Press may stay and film the proceedings.   On Wednesday, October 31^st at 2:30 p.m. the Hon. David Gooding will host a special Halloween Adoption Event to officially unite local foster children with their new adoptive families. The event, scheduled specifically for those children and families who come in costume, will take place just in time for families to trick or treat together on Halloween post the official adoption. “It is great fun to have a courtroom full of kids in costumes having fun as our kick off for National Adoption Month in November to set the tone,” said Judge Gooding. The media is encouraged to confirm with the FSS contact above to secure a time prior to Wednesday’s adoption event. Participating media outlets must be at the Duval County Courthouse by 1:45 p.m. to conduct interviews according to the prompts provided. FSS is the lead agency for foster care, adoption and family preservation in Duval and Nassau counties. For more information about FSS, visit www.fssjax.org. Ashley Lombardo Communications and Social Media Specialist Family Support Services of North Florida 1300 Riverplace Blvd., Suite 700 | Jacksonville, FL 32207 ashley.lombardo@fssnf.org Direct: 904-265-8055 www.fssjax.org

The JCA Discover Culture Festival is from November 1-15 and features best-selling authors, award winning films and programs for the entire community. Please see attached updated releasel. We’ve added a program featuring the short film, “Daughter of the Holocaust,” by Dan Kossoff which was created to play at the Cummer Gallery in conjunction with their month-long exhibit of Israeli photographer Vardi Kahana’s groundbreaking show. Thank you and have a great day! Iman Byfield Director of Communications Jewish Community Alliance 904-730-2100 ext. 223

Event week is here and we can't wait to see everyone on Sunday for the 7th Annual Spoonbills & Sprockets Cycling Tour! If you haven't registered, don't worry. This year there is no price bump or last minute costs as we welcome you to the most beautiful ride along Florida's coast. From the kickoff at Moonrise Brewing Company in Palm Coast's European Village on Saturday to the post ride celebration at Marineland Dolphin Adventure on Sunday, this year's ride is guaranteed to wow you from start to finish! Visit us at www.scenica1a.org to find out more about who we are, what we do or visit www.spoonbillsandsprockets.com for direct registration. This year's ride is dedicated to raising funds for our annual Kids Ocean Day event each spring and the Vilano to Mickler's Beach multi-use trail project, so you know it's always for a great cause! See you soon!

FIRST WEDNESDAY SPEAKER SERIES LUNCHEON Trust in Government: Hope or Hopeless? Join us on November 7 to hear from Carla Miller, Director, Jacksonville Ethics Commission Carla Miller is director of the Jacksonville Ethics Commission and the founder and president of City Ethics, an organization devoted to the establishment of local government ethics programs across the world. Carla is a former federal prosecutor in the Middle District of Florida where she handled political corruption cases, including the prosecution of the President Pro Tem of the Florida Senate. She has worked for over 20 years to build a strong ethics program in Jacksonville, Florida. She was Chair of the local Ethics Commission, helped to draft the City’s first ethics code, served as its first Ethics Officer (as a volunteer), fought for (and won) independence for the Ethics Commission; drafted a successful referendum to establish an Inspector General system; and handled thousands of calls on an ethics hotline. She has been the City’s Ethics Director since 2007.  From 2013-2015, Carla was a Network Fellow at the Safra Center for Ethics at Harvard University where she developed ethics training programs for municipalities and participated in various research projects. Where: Season's 52 at the St. Johns Town Center 5096 Big Island Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32246. When: Wednesday, November 7, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm RSVP to Nora Manahan: dnmanahan@comcast.net or 904 476-6443 by November 4. Cost: $20 cash or check only please Reserve your seat today and please forward!!

Peterbrooke Chocolatier Partners with Mason’s Voice in Fight Against Spina Bifida - Ten Percent of every transaction across participating Peterbrooke Chocolatier’s Jacksonville, Fla. Locations on November 10^th will be donated to Mason’s Voice – JACKSONVILLE, Fla., October 26, 2018 – Peterbrooke Chocolatier (Peterbrooke), the premiere Florida-based confectioner transforming the art of fine European chocolate making into a truly American experience, announced today that it has joined forces with Mason’s Voice to build awareness and raise funds in the fight against spina bifida. On November 10, 2018, all participating Peterbrooke Jacksonville locations will donate 10 percent of each transaction to Mason’s Voice, the Jacksonville-based foundation committed to bringing awareness to spina bifida, specifically surrounding the in-utero diagnosis of the disease, which is the most common permanently disabling birth defect in the United States. “There is no better way to give back and play a role in fighting this deadly disease than to indulge yourself, a friend, colleague or family member to an incredibly delicious chocolate treat from Peterbrooke Chocolatier,” said Jeff Smith, Peterbrooke Chocolatier’s chief operating officer. “This fundraising effort hits especially close to home as our Downtown Jacksonville Manager Linda Crout of more than ten years is the grandmother of Mason and knows all too well the devastating effects a spina bifida diagnosis can have on expecting parents and grandparents.” Peterbrooke’s traditional favorites such as decadent truffles, hand-made caramels, gelato and cherry cordials and specialties such as hand-dipped chocolate covered cookies, pretzels, scratch-made marshmallows, strawberries and the brand’s signature chocolate covered popcorn, among others, will all be available as part of the fundraising effort. Furthermore, Peterbrooke hopes to shed light on this serious and complex spinal cord birth defect that has an estimated prevalence of slightly over three cases per 10,000 births. “We are very pleased to join forces with a community partner such as Peterbrooke Chocolatier, “ said Louis Joseph, founder of Mason’s Voice and Mason’s father. “Through this type of commitment and partnership, we can work towards bridging the gap between the coordinated funding and research needed to enable better treatment options while empowering families and survivors. Furthermore, on this anniversary of our daughter Mason’s first fetal surgery, we’re gong to raise the funds needed to help send a struggling family to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the preeminent center for spina bifida fetal diagnosis and treatment across the country.” Jacksonville residents Louis and Baylee Joseph established Mason’s Voice in 2018 following the successful in utero spina bifida surgery on their daughter Mason performed by the team at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Since the financial and emotional burden can be overwhelming for families leaving their jobs and lives behind for immediate treatment in just a week’s notice, Mason’s Voice was founded to help alleviate the stress and ease the economic strain on families that have to embark on such a life-changing journey. Furthermore, Peterbrooke is partnering with Mason’s Voice to host an all-you-can-eat BBQ fundraiser at Bartram Park in Jacksonville, Fla. on Saturday, November 10, 2018 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $40 each and include two drinks, lots of BBQ and a silent auction. For more information and to purchase tickets to the event, please visit 904Tix.com. About Peterbrooke Chocolatier Founded in 1983 in Jacksonville, Fla., Peterbrooke Chocolatier is a “neighborhood chocolate shop” offering a wide selection of European-styled handmade chocolates through a distinctly American experience. The first shop opened in Jacksonville’s historic San Marco neighborhood and today the brand has more than 20 locations throughout the Southeast, including Florida, Alabama and Georgia. The brand began franchising in 2006 and continues to focus on high-quality, delicious and beautiful chocolate creations that are perfect for personal or corporate gifts, custom baskets, private parties, and more. For more information or to find the nearest location, visit peterbrooke.com.

WHAT:           November: National Adoption Month Awareness WHERE:        Good Dough - 1636 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207 WHO:             Family Support Services of North Florida  Good Dough  Selfless Love Foundation  WHEN:           November 1^st – November 30^th – National Adoption Month (NAM 2018)  JACKSONVILLE, FL – THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2018 - Family Support Services of North Florida has teamed up with Good Dough, located at 1636 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207, to promote National Adoption Month 2018. Proceeds from Good Dough’s Maple with Mini Stoopwafel donut will be donated to Family Support Services of North Florida to help support youth in the process of finding their forever families. Community members can visit Good Dough throughout the month of November. Hours of operations are Monday – Thursday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you are interested in supporting this national Adoption Month awareness campaign, please utilize our public service announcement with this link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/02tga1d8sfzr320/v3-OneHeart-2Slides-1080p-YT.mp4?dl=0 FSS is the lead agency for foster care, adoption and family preservation in Duval and Nassau counties. For more information about FSS, visit www.fssjax.org. For more information, please contact: Dani Deyton at 904.707.4119 or dani.deyton@fssnf.org

Remember we have All-You-Can-Taste Chili from the chili contestants, live music, a bounce house, arts and craft vendors and more! The festival is free. We ask for a non-perishable food item or $1 per person over 12 as a donation to the Mandarin Food Bank. Time: Saturday, November 17 - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Riverplace Shopping Center 11111 San Jose Boulevard Proceeds from this annual event benefit our Mandarin and Northeast Florida community. Food donations are distributed to the Mandarin Food Bank. Our profits are donated to Safe Kids Northeast Florida, Junior Achievement and Mandarin Council's Janice Meisel Scholarship Fund. Stay up-to-date with the event by Liking our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/MandarinFallFestival We hope to see you there! The Mandarin Fall Festival Committee

The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Nov. 17, 2018 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Gregory Cook, a professor at the University of West Florida. His lecture is titled “Luna's Lost Ships: Updates on the Investigations of Three Vessels from the 1559 Colonization Fleet of Tristan de Luna"  This presentation will detail the finds and investigations of three shipwrecks in Pensacola Bay associated with the failed colonization attempt of Don Tristan de Luna in 1559.  These wreck sites are among the oldest in the United States, and along with the terrestrial settlement site located near the fleet, provide a rare look into Spanish colonization and life in the sixteenth century. The lecture is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab.  On Saturday parking is free and the staff/faculty/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or go our website aiajax.org.

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 12, 2017 - The Jacksonville Children's Chorus (JCC) continues its tradition of celebrating the holidays downtown by illuminating the outside of its office, located at 225 East Duval Street with festive lights synchronized to recorded songs of the season performed by the JCC's singers. Holiday, Christmas and Hanukkah songs will be broadcast on 94.5 FM for onlookers to enjoy. The Fourth Annual Downtown Dazzle begins Friday, November 23, 2017 and continues through New Year's Eve. Each night at dusk (5:30pm), 14-minute presentations will begin; they will conclude at 9:30 p.m. The synchronized lights are designed by Darren Huffty, a winner of ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight in 2015. Huffty, along with Miller Electric, will bring the building and its downtown block to life. The sponsor for the event this year is Elena Flats, LLC. Be sure to make this an annual stop for your families during the holiday season.

On Monday, Dec. 3 from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m., JCA member families will gather at the Jewish Community Alliance to celebrate Chanukkah. The event begins with the lighting of the JCA’s giant outdoor chanukiyah, which was sculpted by local artist David Ponsler. This evening marks one of the agency’s most festive events, with hundreds of attendees celebrating the start of the eight-day festival of lights. Chanukkah begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev. The lighting of the nine-branched chanukiyah used during Chanukkah commemorates the miracle of a day's worth of Menorah oil lasting eight days. JCA Board President Brent Trager will officiate the ceremony, and JCA Family and Jewish Outreach Director Dave Flagler will lead the lighting, during which attendees will recite traditional blessings and Chanukkah songs. This will be followed by a family-style dinner and activities. The JCA is located at 8505 San Jose Blvd, on the corner of San Jose and San Clerc and one traffic light north of Baymeadows Road.

Contact: Andrew Lemister Phone: 904.296.3006 Email: alemister@jobnewsusa.com** Companies hiring for 100's of new jobs in a variety of industries. **Job News, along with our Sponsor, GATE, will be hosting a Job Fair from 10 am to 2 pm on Wednesday, December 5th, 2018 at The Prime Osborn Convention Center located at 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. ** Booth space is still available and employers can call General Manager Andrew Lemister at (904) 296-3006 for additional information. This is a unique opportunity for job seekers to get guaranteed face time and make personal connections with recruiters and hiring managers from some of Northeast Florida's best companies and organizations. **Free Computer Lab to research companies, apply to jobs and customize your resume** ** Bilingual (Spanish) job seeker assistance will be available to help you land your new job **   Job Seekers can find more information on the companies attending and the positions they will be hiring for by visiting our website: www.jobnewsusa.com   SAVE TIME AND PRE-REGISTER TODAY AT: www.jobnewsusa.com Companies and organizations will be looking to fill "Hundreds of Positions" including the following:   S

Jacksonville, FL (Nov. 28, 2018) – Honoring the memories of loved ones passed can be challenging day-to-day, but the holidays can be especially difficult. On Thursday, Dec. 6, Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Earl B. Hadlow Center for Caring, located at 4266 Sunbeam Road, will open its doors to the community in a special way that highlights the lives of treasured family members and friends. The 28^th Annual Tree of Life and Candlelight Service of Remembrance is here to support the communities it serves by helping families and friends honor the memories of those who have been lost in a beautiful, inspiring program of music, verse and reflection. Illuminated with radiant lights that represent the spirits of those who have departed, Tree of Life is yet another way the community continues its support of the Community Hospice mission to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to patients and their families. The celebration will include refreshments, children’s activities and a special prelude performance before the service. Please bring photos of loved ones to display on the memory tables. The event is free of charge. Additional parking will be available at Watson Realty at 4685 Sunbeam Road. The last shuttle before the service will leave the Watson parking lot at 5:45 p.m. Guests are asked to refrain from parking at the Watson building at the corner of Sunbeam and Craven roads. To commemorate your loved one, you can purchase ribbons, ornaments and cedar plates with his or her name for the celebration. For more information, please visit TOL.CommunityHospice.com.

St. Simons Island, GA (October 26, 2018) The historic King and Prince Hotel on St. Simons Island is hosting a ‘Teddy Bear Tea’ for children and adults on Saturday, December 8, 2018 from 11:am – 2: pm. For the first time in more than a decade, the oceanfront hotel is inviting children of all ages to attend with at least one adult for a delicious tea party and PHOTOS with Santa! Share the Holiday Magic and enjoy a Teddy Bear Tea Menu: Assorted Tea Sandwiches, Candy Jar - Assorted Candies, Double Chocolate Cookies, Chocolate Cake Pops, Chocolate Truffle Lollipops, Mandarin Fruit Gelées, Lemon Meringue Tarts Orange Sponge, Key Lime Pie, Assorted Hot Teas, Warm Milk, Hot Cocoa & Coffee, $30/Adults, $18/Children 3-10 years, 11 years and older/Adult cost Children Under 2 years – Complimentary Visit with Santa Claus for Children & Family Photos! Reservations Required ~ (912) 268-5967 The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort 201 Arnold Road, St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522, 912-638-3613 www.kingandprince.com

December 20th Mandarin Women’s Club’s “Holiday Luncheon & Raffle” Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by December 13th; mcshell@comcast.net or (904) 859-6299

SPEAKER SERIES LUNCHEON JANUARY 9 Laura Lothman Lambert: Juvenile Justice Programming Laura Lothman Lambert received her undergraduate degree in English Literature from Davidson College in North Carolina. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law, where she served as an Executive Editor of the Florida Law Review, a member of the Jessup Moot Court Team, was elected to the Order of the Coif, and received Book Awards in Legal Research and Writing, Appellate Advocacy and International Law. Presently, Ms. Lambert serves as the Director of the Juvenile Division at the State Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit. In addition to prosecution and division management, her role includes developing and implementing policy on juvenile justice and engaging with community stakeholders in identifying and executing programming aimed at serving the juvenile and young adult populations. Ms. Lambert also handles a variety of cases in felony circuit court, has served on the Grand Jury Indictment Review Panel, and the Office’s Attorney Recruitment Committee.It is that passion that brought her to a study of the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC)and the League of Women Voters. Pam is a recent member of the League and was excited to be part of the Florida delegation that this past June led the National League of Women Voters to advocate the NPVIC as a national primary program. Where: Season's 52 at the St. Johns Town Center 5096 Big Island Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32246. When: Wednesday, January 9, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm RSVP to Nora Manahan: dnmanahan@comcast.net or 904 476-6443 by January 6. Cost: $20 cash or check only please Reserve your seat today and please forward!!

24th Mandarin Women’s Club’s “Annual Fashion Show” Doors open 10:30am; Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by January 17th; mcshell@comcast.net or (904) 859-6299

 POPULAR “HOW TO SPEAK DOG” PRESENTATION TO BE FEATURED BY THERAPY ANIMAL COALITION SPEAKERS’ SERIES Jacksonville, Fla., January 9, 2019 – Veteran canine trainer and therapy dog expert, Rev. Elizabeth Teal, will teach people the keys to understanding dogs’ communications with their humans in a free workshop sponsored by Therapy Animal Coalition (TAC). Rev. Teal, a favorite of TAC members and program attendees, will lead an interactive program beginning at 6 p.m. at Community Hospice of Northeast Florida on Sunbeam Road on Thursday, January 17, 2019. “Being able to interpret and understand what your dog is saying with their body language is a vital skill for all dog lovers,” said Kristi Leonard, president of the TAC Board of Directors, “It is especially important for therapy animal handlers. It leads to a deeper relationship and enables handlers to manage their dog's interactions while volunteering.” The environment for the program will be friendly, informal and relaxed. There will be a chance to ask questions and light refreshments will be served. Rev. Elizabeth Teal, of The Ministry of Animals Giving Paws, is a leader in working with therapy animals and ministry animals since 1985. She has been working with therapy animal teams since before pets were widely accepted in institutional settings and was a leader in setting Standards of Practice used in the field today. Teal has been affiliated professionally with the ASPCA, the Delta Society’s Pet Partners National Committee and Pattes Tendues (Swiss therapy animal organization). Admission is free, but people planning to attend are asked to make a reservation at the following linkhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/speak-dog-tickets-54308428973.Please note this is a “humans-only” event. Please leave furry friends at home. (Service animals are always welcome.) The next major program sponsored by TAC will be their annual Therapy Animal Expo & Symposium on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at the University of North Florida. Keynote Speaker for this year’s Expo will be Steve Dale, certified animal behavior specialist who has a 20-year history of advancing pet wellness. Affiliation with UNF has enabled TAC to add an academic track to the seminar offerings. The group plans to build upon the success of their first Expo in 2016 when they had over 250 people attend an event where only 100 people were anticipated. Therapy Animal Coalition (TAC) was established in 2016 to promote sharing the healing love of pets through pet-assisted therapy. TAC provides information and education on the various steps necessary to become a pet therapy team including training, evaluation and registration or certification. They also provide consultation and recruitment assistant for organizations with pet therapy programs or those wanting to begin programs. For more information visit therapyanimalcoalition.org.

Best-selling Author, Psychologist, Bible Teacher, Dr. Larry Crabb Leads "Soul Talk" Conference in Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL.) Best-selling author, Psychologist, Bible teacher, Founder/Director NewWay Ministries, Dr. Larry Crabb, hosts "Soul Talk", a SOUL CARE conference at Mandarin Presbyterian Church January 18 and 19, 2019. "Don't try to fix people. Join them on their spiritual journey. This conference unpacks what the Bible encourages us to do, how we are to relate with one another with spiritual power," says Dr. Crabb. Dr. Crabb shares what it means to engage in conversations that matter, conversations - that with the Spirit's passion - tracks with the Spirit's work in Christians' lives. Dr. Larry Crabb's passionate ideas will help conference attendees to: Understand the battle going on within us that hinders SoulTalk, Release one's passion for God and ignite that passion in others, Trade in the passing pleasures of this world for lasting joy, Connect with others to experience real spiritual growth. Dr. Crabb adds, "Learn how to speak into someone's soul with the power to make a real difference in that person's life. Come alongside others and move through the messiness of life together. The theme verse for the weekend is Hebrews 10:24: 'And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. ' “ "One of the most impactful weeks of my life was spent with Dr. Larry Crabb. So it is with great anticipation that we are inviting everyone to come and hear Larry talk with us about how to engage in Soul Talk." - Kevin Pound, Senior Pastor, Mandarin Presbyterian Church "Soul Talk" seminar: Friday January 18th 7p-9p and Saturday January 19th 8:30am-4pm; Mandarin Presbyterian Church 2501 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223. Lunch is provided Saturday. For tickets and more information: mandarinpres.com/soultalk; 904 680-9944 Registration ends Wednesday, January 16, 2019. Best-selling Author, Psychologist, Bible Teacher, Dr. Larry Crabb, Leads "Soul Talk" Conference in Jacksonville - Page 2 For more about Dr. Larry Crabb: http://www.newwayministries.org/larrycrabb Books by Dr. Larry Crabb:  Understanding People, The Marriage Builder, Finding God, Connecting, The Safest Place on Earth, The Pressure's Off, Shattered Dreams, Sou/Talk. Fully Alive and New Release, available now: When God's Ways Make No Sense. "Larry Crabb is equal parts Bible scholar and professional counselor, which makes him the ideal person to address this topic. And in an era of global terrorism, nuclear fears, political divisions, and devastating natural disasters, we need a trustworthy guide to explore God's ways."-- Philip Yancey "A Larry Crabb book is like a good hit in a baseball game. Each time he steps up to the plate he ends up on base and the rest of us advance toward the home." Max Lucado "The primary goal in each SoulTalk conversation is not empathy or solution­finding, but Spirit-finding." - Philip Steiger - Pastor About NewWay Ministries:  NewWay Ministries, based in Denver, Colorado was formed in 2002 by Dr. Larry Crabb. It was birthed out of the passionate conviction that there is a new way to live made possible by the New Covenant that must become better known. A non-profit ministry, it joins with others excited about spiritual formation and authentic community to help ignite a revolution in how Christians live, think, and relate. NewWay Ministries seeks to introduce people to this new way of living, thinking, and relating that only the gospel makes possible. Our intended contribution to this revolution occurs through three distinct ministries: Conferences; Intensive Training; Library. Contact: Email: newwayinfo phone: (970) 262-9110 https://www.facebook.com/newwaymin/

Timucuan Parks Foundation is hosting the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service volunteer project on Monday, Jan. 21 at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. The nonprofit organization is asking for volunteers to join them from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. to help with invasive plant removal, trail maintenance and shore cleanup. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is located at 500 Wonderwood Dr. Volunteers are asked to identify themselves as volunteers to park staff at the front gate and meet at 9 a.m. at the front parking lot. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring work gloves (if you have them), sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses and water (in a reusable water bottle). Timucuan Parks Foundation will have additional work gloves, equipment and supplies and will also provide snacks and water. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Those under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or youth leader during the project. Volunteers are eligible for community service hours. To receive a waiver or for more information, contact Timucuan Parks Foundation at info@timucuanparks.org. Volunteers are welcome to stay fee-free after the project to enjoy all that Hanna Park has to offer including swimming, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and disc golf. This project is done in partnership with the City of Jacksonville. Partial funding is provided by REI, a National Parks Foundation and Outdoor Foundation Challenge Grant, and a Restoration and Resilience Grant from the National Environmental Education Foundation.

The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Saturday Jan. 26, 2019 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Patrick Hunt, a professor at Stanford University.  His lecture is titled “Timely Remedies: Ancient Medicines of Otzi, the Ice Man,” referring to the 5,300-year-old body found in the Alps in 1991.  The almost perfectly preserved remains of “Ötzi the Iceman” may give us a glimpse into medicines practiced by prehistoric peoples. We know that “Ötzi” carried a medical kit with him – his own portable pharmacy with over ten different plant products that could heal and cure. This lecture explores the medical evidence, including material technology he carried with vital medical and bioarchaeological data. This is research conducted under the auspices of National Geographic and the Institute for EthnoMedicine where Hunt is also a Research Associate in Archeoethnobotany. The lecture is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served in the Archaeology Lab afterwards.  On Saturday, parking is free, and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are available to everyone.  For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411.  

The Many Faces of Breast Cancer portrait series opening night celebration Saturday January 26, 2019 6pm-9pm Cork Art District, 2689 Roselle Street, Jacksonville. All funds raised will be donated under team Hope Floats benefiting the DONNA Foundation To purchase tickets go to: https://thedonnafoundation.org/event/many-faces-of-breast-cancer/

Under the Oaks Music Jam 2pm-4pm weather permitting at Mandarin Museum 11964 Mandarin Rd. www.mandarinmuseum.net

1:30PM at Mandarin Park 14780 Mandarin Rd. next to the tennis courts at the entrance.  Weather permitting.

February 6th, 2019 at The Prime Osborn Convention Center located at 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. This is a unique opportunity for job seekers to get guaranteed face time and make personal connections with recruiters and hiring managers from some of Northeast Florida's best companies and organizations including: Companies and organizations will be looking to fill "Hundreds of Positions" in a variety of industries.  Click on the links below for our current roster of partners who will be recruiting at this event. February 6th Jacksonville Job Fair

Bill Guilliford: Update on Current City Council Issues Bill Gulliford has been a resident of Jacksonville and the Beaches community since 1954. He graduated from Bishop Kenny High School and then the University of Florida. After military service he returned to Jacksonville and joined his father’s construction equipment business, Pilot Equipment Company. He acquired the business from his father and successfully grew it until 1996 when he sold the company. Since then he has started two other businesses involved in the sale of construction equipment and currently is a partner in Major Machinery & Equipment LLC, a company involved in exporting construction equipment. In 1988 Bill was elected mayor of Atlantic Beach and served until 1993. Bill was elected to the Jacksonville City Council in 2011, to represent District 13, which includes the beaches and the southeastern section of Duval County.  In 2012, Bill was awarded the Charles D. Webb Award, for extraordinary commitment to public service, by out-going president, Stephen Joost. The members of the City Council unanimously elected Bill to serve as President for the 2013/2014 Council Year.  Bill received the Mary L. Singleton Award for 2014-2015. Where: Season's 52 at the St. Johns Town Center 5096 Big Island Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32246. When: Wednesday, February 6, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm RSVP to Nora Manahan: dnmanahan@comcast.net or 904 476-6443 by February 3. Cost: $20 cash or check only please Reserve your seat today and please forward!!

Second Saturday Arts and Farmers Market9AM-1PM First Christian Church 11924 San Jose Blvd.

River City Science Academy will be hosting the 7^th Annual Florida STEM & Health Expo on Saturday, February 9^th, 2019 from 10 am – 2 pm. JACKSONVILLE, FL – On Saturday, February 9^th, 2019, River City Science Academy (RCSA) will host their 7^th Annual Florida STEM & Health Expo, presented by SharedLABS, on February 9^th at their main campus, 7605 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32216. The Florida STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) & Health Expo has been a great event for the Jacksonville community since its founding. The expo serves as an alternative to the typical county fair. It allows RCSA students to get a chance to showcase their STEM work in a fun and unique way, with learning opportunities for the entire family. RCSA’s mission for the expo is to expose Florida’s citizens to the exciting and engaging world of STEM and health to ignite their interests and motivation for these disciplines. This one-day event features exciting science shows, STEM educators and scientists, robots, community health supporters, the fire and police department, and more! Over 100 tables will be set up with exciting STEM projects and hands-on activities. The community will be able to visit with and learn about many businesses and organizations in Florida, including health providers, colleges and universities, non-profit organizations, and more. The expo is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC so bring all your friends and family! Make sure to save the date for this awesome event! RSVP on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/259199774838817/ Visit www.flstemexpo.com for more information and details. YouTube Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myx1hp8hC8c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GMaadf8A4Q STEM Expo on News 4 Jax: https://www.news4jax.com/news/morning-show/stem-students-host-expo-for-science-enthusiasts

Frog Painting at the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society 11964 Mandarin Rd.  10AM-12PM www.mandarinmuseum.net

Florida Cinderella Scholarship Program Sunday, Feb.10, 2019 This is a non-glitz, natural scholarship pageant focusing on inner beauty, poise and self confidence. Age Divisions Baby: 0-35months Tot:  3-6years old Mini Miss: 7-9 years old Miss: 10-12 years old. Teen: 13-17 years old Woman: 18-29years old.   Registration will be at 1:00   Preliminary will be held at  Britney Boyd Dance Company  2683 St. Johns Bluff Rd. Suite 141, Jacksonville, FL For Entry Forms go to~ www.FloridaCinderella.com

Dementia Support for Caregivers 3:30pm at River Garden 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd.

1:00pm-2:00pm  at the South Mandarin Library 12125 San Jose Blvd. If you have any questions call (904) 288-6385

Peter Max: The Retrospective 1960-2019 A newly-curated collection of artist legend, Peter Max’s exquisite paintings will be on exhibition and available for acquisition in a presentation at Gallery 725, Jacksonville’s premier fine art gallery. Previews of the exhibition begin on Saturday, February 16 with a special Uncrating event planned on Friday, February 15 from 6-8 pm. There are two very special gallery receptions planned on Saturday, February 23 from 5-8 pm and Sunday, February 24 from 1–3 pm. All artworks are on exhibition and available for acquisition. All events are complimentary and open to the public however RSVP’s are required: 904-345-9320 or gallery725@gmail.com. Visit http://www.gallery725.com for more info.   Where:      Gallery 725,  725-5 Atlantic Boulevard,  Jacksonville, FL 32233 

10AM-12PM South Mandarin Library 12125 San Jose Blvd. mandarintoastmasters.org

All Star Quilt Guild 9:45AM First Christian Church 11924 San Jose Blvd. If you have any questions please visit www.orgsites.com/fl/allstarquiltguild or call (904) 502-5254

Dogwood Circle, Mandarin Garden Club 10AM Mandarin Garden Club 2892 Loretto Rd. (904) 886-4562 mandaringardenclub.org  

River City Women's Club lunch with Bunco fundraising and recommended slate of officers for New Year 10:30AM at the Ramada Inn 3130 Hartley Rd. RSVP to Florence (904) 262-8719  

Cherokee Rose Circle, Mandarin Garden Club:  Growing Citrus 10AM at the Mandarin Garden Club 2892 Loretto Rd. (210) 910-0672 mandaringardenclub.org

Third Thursday Lecture, "The Fort Mose Story: A Story That Must Be Told" 7PM at the Mandarin Community Club 12447 Mandarin Rd. www.mandarincommunityclub.org

Dinner 5pm /Bingo 6:30pm Mandarin Senior Center 3848 Hartley Rd. Buy tickets $5 (904) 262-7309  

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 9, 2019 - The Jacksonville Children's Chorus (JCC) presents the Tenth Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" Concert. The concert will be held Saturday, February 23, 2019 at 2 p.m., Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church located at 4001 Hendricks Avenue in Jacksonville. All of the JCC performance choirs will take the stage, joined by their special guests, the Tuskegee University Golden Voices (pictured above). This famous university choir is an organization steeped in more than a century of pride and the richest of choral traditions. Since its inception, the Tuskegee University Golden Voices has served as an artistic model while carving its place in American history.

Co-emcees for the concert will be Aundra Wallace, President of JAXUSA Partnership, and Dr. Barbara Darby former Campus President of the Florida State College at Jacksonville. "We are excited to celebrate 10 years presenting our 'Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing' concert to the Jacksonville community and helping to promote unity through song." said Darren Dailey, President and Artistic Director, Jacksonville Children's Chorus. The mission of the Jacksonville Children's Chorus is to provide high-quality choral music educational opportunities for children of diverse backgrounds, fostering teamwork, self-discipline, accomplishment and pride while filling an important cultural need in the community and sharing the beauty of the choral art form through artistically excellent performances. Tickets for the event are $20 and may be purchased online at JaxChildrensChorus.org or by phone at 904-353-1636, ext. 2. Group discounts are available. Please call the JCC office for details. Proceeds from the concert will benefit The Jacksonville Children's Chorus' ongoing programming and scholarship funds.

8AM-9:30AM at Bonefish Grill 10950 San Jose Blvd. www.mandarincouncil.org

Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by February 21st; mcshell@comcast.net or (904) 859-6299

General Town Hall Meeting, hosted by District 6 Council Member Matt Schellenberg 6pm-7:30pm South Mandarin Library 12125 San Jose Blvd  

Veterans and Military Honored  

Breakfast with Our Heroes

 (JACKSONVILLE) – The Breakfast with Our Heroes on March 2, 2019, is an opportunity to meet those that served, extend helping hands to homeless veterans, and honor the service of all U. S. Veterans.  March is the month the Nation celebrates the birthdays of the Navy Reserve, Navy Seabees, Vietnam Veterans Day and K9s Veterans Day.  There will be a gift for the oldest and youngest Navy Reserve, Seabee, or Vietnam Veteran present. Breakfast will be served from 8:00AM to 10:00AM at the Town Center Applebee’s, 4507 Town Center Parkway in Jacksonville.  Seating is limited.  Ticket cost is $12 or 3 for $30.  The community is encouraged to thank veterans for their service by donating appreciation tickets.  Donations will be acknowledged on social media and at breakfast.  For tickets and information, google breakfast with our heroes in Jacksonville. There will be a food collection at the event for homeless veterans.  Food donations must be prepackaged, individual servings of non-perishable items or grocer gift cards.  Representatives of the Clara White Mission will be present to accept the collection. Turning Points in America is an all-volunteer not for profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 2016 and located in Jacksonville. Turning Points in America helps citizens affected by government changes and budget cuts.  For more information about Turning Points in America visit www.turningpointsinamerica.org

Annual IDidAHike

You’ve probably heard of the Appalachian Trail and maybe even the Pacific Crest Trail.  But, did you know Florida is home to one of the eleven national scenic trails?  The Florida National Scenic Trail is about 1000 miles long and traverses from the Big Cypress Preserve, in the southern portion of the state, up through the central portion of Florida, then westward to the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Why not hike a portion of it?  March 2, is the Florida Trail’s (a 501(c)3) annual fundraising event, IDidAHike.  This year’s event will traverse a beautiful section of the Florida Trail along the Suwannee River.  Participants will register and pay the $20 fee (proceeds go to maintaining and preserving the trail) at the main gate of Spirit of the Suwannee Campground and Music Park, Live Oak, FL.  Registration is from 8 to 11am. From the registration area, participants will be shuttled via bus to the Jerry Branch access point. The 11 mile hike passes high above Jerry Branch; then, passes Disappearing Creek, a beautiful clear creek that cuts a narrow canyon then cascades down a 25 foot wall of rock and disappears. Continuing on, hikers will cross Crooked Branch, then climb on to the highest bluff on the Suwannee River. Hiking down river, the trail passes numerous rock outcrops 20 and 30 feet above the river; along with beautiful white sandbars which offer great places to take a break. Near the end of the hike participants will cross the Suwannee on the old 129 truss bridge and have the option to visit the ruins of the historic Suwannee Mineral Spring before they finish. There will be first aid stations and take out points along the way.  It’s early spring, so dogwoods, wild Azaleas, and fringe flowers are expected to be in full bloom. Make a long weekend out of the event! In addition to Saturday’s IDidAHike, the North Florida Trailblazers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will lead free short day hikes on Friday and Sunday. A big group campfire is planned on Friday night at the Spirit of the Suwannee campground. Carol Walker can be contacted for discount for camping/accommodations (800 224 5656).

Nancy Shaver currently serves the people of St Augustine in her third term as Mayor. As Vice Chair of Resiliency Florida, and Advisory Board Member of the American Flood Coalition she advocates for long-term planning and adaption strategies to address sea level rise in the Nation’s Oldest City. She received the 2017 Quality of Life Award from the Northeast Florida Regional Council for her efforts on sea level rise threats. The daughter of a Navy captain, her childhood was spent in many states and overseas, and her career also kept her on the move. Nancy’s business experience is both national and global and includes leading a Fortune 500 marketing organization. After moving to St. Augustine in 2009 she became an active citizen, using her business skills to help her fellow citizens be better informed on City decisions. And as a citizen activist she worked to have Riberia Pointe become Dr. Robert B. Hayling Freedom Park. This involvement led her to her first run for political office and her election in 2014. Where: Season's 52 at the St. Johns Town Center 5096 Big Island Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32246. When: Wednesday, March 6, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm RSVP to Nora Manahan: dnmanahan@comcast.net or 904 476-6443 by March 3. Cost: $20 cash or check only please Reserve your seat today and please forward!! 

Freedom Boat Club will be hosting an Open House and New Boater Experience Day at their location at Beach Marine at 2315 Beach Blvd. in Jacksonville Beach on Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The boat club will be offering free boat rides and refreshments. Everyone is invited to come out and experience Freedom in person, learn the benefits of membership and enjoy some time on the water. Contact: George Biastre  (904) 239-0590 georgeb@freedomboatclub.com

Jacksonville Career Fair Wednesday March 13th at 10 am! Companies will be hiring for hundreds of jobs in a variety of industries.

Archaeologist to Discuss Ships Found on Land in New York The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on March 16, 2019 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Warren Riess, Professor Emeritus at the University of Maine. His lecture is titled “Four Colonial Ships Found Beneath Manhattan” This is an illustrated lecture wherein Prof. Riess will discuss the discovery and studies of the four colonial ships that have been discovered beneath modern New York City: the so-called Tijger, the merchant ship beneath the South Street Seaport Museum, the Ronson ship, and the World Trade Center Ship. Dr. Riess has been the principal investigator for the latter two sites and is the author of The Ship That Held up Wall Street and Angel Gabriel: The Elusive English Galleon. He has also published several articles. The lecture is free and open to the public, and complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday, parking is free, and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Mandarin Women’s Club presents an Antiques Show Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by March 21st; mcshell@comcast.net or (904) 859-6299

Join bestbet Jacksonville and the JAX Chamber for an exciting night of competitive Texas Hold'em poker. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers. Additional opportunities to win include bounties, a bubble prize, first player out and more throughout the tournament. Be a Player: $50 per person $250 per 1/2 table - admission for 5 $450 per table host - admission for 10 Be a Spectator: $15 per person All attendees are invited to enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres, courtesy of bestbet Jacksonville, while networking with Jacksonville's top business professionals. EVENT DETAILS:  Thursday, March 28 Schedule: 5:30 - Check In 6:00 - Networking and Poker Lesson 6:30 - Poker Tournament Location:

The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show is coming back to Metropolitan Park and Marina Event will be held April 5 to April 7, 2019 Jacksonville, FL, Jan. 9, 2019 – JBM & Associates is once again bringing the Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show to Metropolitan Park and Marina. The dates have been set for April 5 through April 7, 2019 for the family-friendly event. Yamaha is once again the presenting sponsor of the event, which is filled with plenty of activities for the whole family, plus boats of all sizes, marine products and services. “We are currently working to put the final touches on the event, which is sure to be another great crowd pleaser,” said Jacqui Bomar, president of JBM & Associates. “Last year, we had about 5,500 come through the gates and unfortunately we had to shut down early on Sunday due to heavy rains. This year we are hoping for great weather and an even bigger turnout. We have lots of great activities planned that everyone will enjoy and we have some great prize giveaways. Our presenting sponsor will also be giving away Yamaha hats each day to the first 100 people through the gates.” The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show will feature more than 75 different boat brands on site including powerboats, jet boats, skiffs, cruisers, ski boats and yachts. Top local fishing guides will be leading adult fishing seminars and Captain Don Digman from Hook the Future will be there to teach kids how to fish like grown-ups. The Freedom Boat Club’s Freedom Boat Hut will be there to provide free boat rides on the floating tiki bar and Captain Jack Sparrow and his merry band of pirates will also be returning. There will be some of the most popular food trucks on site and live music from a number of local artists. The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show opens Friday, April 5 at noon until 6 p.m., Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets range from $5 to $10 and can be purchased at jacksonvilleinwaterboatshow.com. About JBM & Associates JBM & Associates is a company made up of women who have been producing boat shows around the country for more than 18 years. They focus on the customer’s needs, exhibitors and vendors to create experiences, not just events. In addition to the Jacksonville In-Water Boat show, they also produce the Charleston Boat Show, Savannah Boat Show, Charleston In-Water Boat Show and the Wilmington Boat Show. For more information, visit jbmshows.com.

Catholic Writers Guild April Meeting Announcement The Catholic Writers Guild, St. Johns Chapter will have its Monthly Meeting on Saturday, April 13 2019 at St. Paul’s Church & School Auditorium at 2609 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204 from 10AM to 12 Noon. All poets, fiction and non-fiction writers, screen play writers, musicians, artists, editors,  illustrators and the just plain curious are invited. Featured speaker: Karina Fabian Topic: For further information contact R. T. Beaman at writerrod@comcast.net or P. Babadi at wordsbypaula@gmail.com.

Dr. Rajaei and Dr. Ahmed of ASAP Dental Care, in partnership with Dentistry from the Heart, continue to help the Jacksonville community! Dentistry from the Heart, a worldwide, nonprofit organization, helps those who lack access to quality dental care. Jacksonville, FL – April 24, 2019 Access to dental services is one of the most pressing healthcare needs for those who cannot afford regular trips to the dentist. To assist those in need, Dr. Rajaei and Dr. Ahmed are hosting their 2nd annual free dentistry day on Wednesday, April 24, 2019. Dental services will be offered to those over the age of 12 years at ASAP Dental Care, 7451 103rd St., Suite 18, Jacksonville FL, 32210 and ASAP Atlantic Dental Care, 12777 Atlantic Blvd., #26, Jacksonville FL 32216. Patient registration opens at 6:00am followed by an opening ceremony at 6:45am. The first patients will be seen at 7:00am. An estimated 150 patients will receive treatment such as a free cleaning, free filling, or free extraction. Services will be provided on a first come, first served basis.  Dr. Rajaei and Dr. Ahmed will be supported by more than 200 volunteers including, local dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. About Dentistry from the Heart Dr. Monticciolo started his nonprofit, Dentistry from the Heart to help adults who lack access to quality dental care. He knew of many charities and organizations that help to provide free dental care to children and veterans, but felt adults could benefit from donated dental care as well. Since starting his nonprofit organization, Dentistry from the Heart in 2001, over 500,000 people have been helped and over $25 million dollars in free dentistry has been donated. Studies have shown that dental problems account for hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits each year. The number of Americans hospitalized due to preventable dental infections is on the rise. Untreated decay and abscesses can lead to serious, even life threatening complications. Unfortunately for patients, many, if not most emergency departments are unequipped to treat dental conditions. According to the Florida Department of Health, 125,579 people under the age of 65 were seen in the emergency room for preventable visits from dental conditions in 2017. In Pasco County, that number is 3,311. In 2007, according to Department of Health for the State of Florida, 19.2% of adults in Florida were unable to see a dentist because of the cost. The Oral Health Florida coalition released a report in February 2017, stating that 146,612 adults over the age of 21 were seen at an emergency room for a dental related visit, resulting in charges of $241,618,706. For More information please contact: Catherine Chung – Director Office: 727-849-2002 Cell: 941-302-3373 Email: smile@dentistryfromtheheart.org

Jacksonville 48 Hour Film Project 2019 CONTACT: Adam Madrid, (904) 707-0386, loljaxfestival@gmail.com “Jacksonville 48 Hour Film Project 2019” Jacksonville, FL (April 2, 2019) – It began with young filmmakers, who grew up together. In elementary school they had a vision to one day make movies. The group consisted of Adam Madrid, Joshua Stadt, Jeremiah Stadt and Michael Geselbracht. They would be known as “Argyle Forest Films”. In 2007, one of the friends discussed a new film contest coming to Jacksonville called the 48 Hour Film  Project. The film competition consists of making a short film in 48 hours. Filmmakers are not aware of what they are filming until that Friday. They select a genre and are provided elements (prop, line of dialogue, and character) that each film will have to include. They are told they have until Sunday evening to write, shoot, edit and turn in the completed film or it is considered late. The 48 Hour Film Project was brought to Jacksonville by Mac McDonald, who became the first Jacksonville City Producer for the contest. The 48 Hour Film Project originated in Washington, D.C. in 2001 and has spawned into an international film contest with over 130 cities and the winner of each city goes on to the international contest called Filmapalooza, which takes place in a different city every year. Each film represented at Filmapalooza has a chance to secure a spot in the Short Film Corner at the Cannes Film Festival in France. The gentlemen formed a team with their friends and family and entered feeling optimistic. The team did not win their first year; however, they ended up winning Best Film in 2014. Their film “No Laughing Matter” went on to Filmapalooza later that year and screened at the historic Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, CA. In October 2016, Adam Madrid, along with his wife, Monique Madrid decided to co-create LOL JAX Film Festival. The vision for LOL JAX was simple. It created a platform that would allow local community filmmakers, actors/actresses, and comedians to showcase their short films and talent. The genre comedy was chosen as a way to promote positivity to the audience. “Love Our Locals” by “Laughing Out Loud” is the motto for the festival. They mix local comedy shorts, local stand-up comedians, and local musical bands to be a part of this event and feature a hilarious comedian host by the name of Jenn Weeks. The festival sold out in the first two years and the third annual will be held later this year in August. The festival recently won Folio Weekly’s Best Film Festival 2018 in Jacksonville. In 2018, Chris Ackerman, the second City Producer of Jacksonville decided to retire from the position. After receiving several nominations for the vacant position along with their film crew’s blessing, Adam and Monique submitted themselves to become the new City Producers and were selected due to their festival experience and passion for growth in the local arts. The pair hit the ground running creating a campaign called “Are You Next?” which was significant for marking a new era in the Jacksonville 48 Hour Film Project. They are eager to instill excitement to the new round of filmmakers who sign up to compete to be this years winning team to represent our city at Filmapalooza which will be held in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Adam and Monique have not forgotten how much they owe Mac McDonald, Chris Ackerman, as well as, PRI Productions for continuing to keep this event going and giving local filmmakers a platform to challenge themselves to make a movie in a short span of time which in turn will have their work shown in a proper movie theatre setting for all their friends, family, and community to enjoy. The Madrids are elated to announce the Jacksonville 48 Hour Film Project for 2019 will have a kickoff and drop-off event at Hemming Park with food trucks, drinks, music and entertainment that is open to the public. They have the support of the Jacksonville Film and Television Office, Kessler Creative and PRI Productions. Filming weekend is Friday, May 17th through Sunday, May 19th. With their “thinking outside the box” approach, they partnered with MOSH and will have the screenings at the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium 7pm-9pm, on Tuesday, May 21st (Screening Group A), Wednesday, May 22nd (Screening Group B) and Thursday, May 23 rd (Screening Group C). The Best Of / Awards Show will be held 7pm-10pm on Wednesday, May 29 th with a rooftop-style reception at the same location. They want this event to be an experience for all who attend. Tickets are available at the MOSH box office or online at www.themosh.org/event/jacksonville48filmproject. Team registration is open at www.48hourfilm.com/Jacksonville.

25th Mandarin Women’s Club’s Annual Game Day Doors open 9:00am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by April 11th; mcshell@comcast.net (904) 859-6299

Archaeologist to Discuss Crime Scene Reconstruction The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on April 27, 2019, in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. John Schultz, Professor at the University of Central Florida. The title of the lecture is “The Application of Archaeological Methods for Forensic Archeological Research.” A biological anthropologist with specializations in forensic anthropology and forensic archaeology, Schultz is also a consulting forensic anthropologist for the Districts 9 and 25 Medical Examiner’s Office.  His projects have addressed search and recovery issues involving decomposing bodies and skeletal remains in order to develop evidence-based guidelines for forensic practitioners.  This lecture will present a discussion of two research projects that involve incorporating archaeological methods for crime scene reconstruction. The lecture is free and open to the public. There will be refreshments afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday, parking is free and the staff/faculty/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Summary: Local artists strive to share their love of nature and the arts by capturing the natural landscape through open air painting. Jacksonville, FL April 27th: a group of local artists will be painting at the Mandarin Garden Club putting their skills to work capturing the beautiful gardens and landscape. First Coast Plein Air painters is a local group of artists whose members are dedicated to capturing the raw landscape in ‘open air’ paintings. They paint all over Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. ‘Our goal is to not only share our love of nature through our art but to help and encourage others to participate in the joy of outdoor painting.’ -Marilyn Antram To accomplish this goal FCPAP artists get together to paint multiple times a month in varying locations around Jacksonville. We also hold a monthly member meeting where we have demos by local artists, guest speakers, and artist critiques. ‘We are always looking for new members to come paint with us. That's why we are here; to support each other and help each other learn more about plein-air landscape painting’ said FCPAP President Stephen Dunn. Come out and see artists paint plein-air: April 27th from 8am-2pm at the Mandarin Garden Clubs plant sale. May 4th, 5th, and 6th artists will be painting at Walter Jones Historical Park in Mandarin. And At the Mandarin Garden Club on May 4th from 9am-2pm for the 50th anniversary celebration of the nature garden. First Coast Plein-Air Painters is a nonprofit organization based in JacksonvilleFL. We are dedicated to supporting local artists both professional and amateur in their pursuit of ‘open air painting’ education and success.

Hug a Survivor Celebration- UNF Osprey Plaza

Date/Time: Saturday, May 4^th   from 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.

UNF-Osprey Plaza

Join us on May 4, 2019 for the 5th Annual Hug a Survivor celebration. We invite everyone in the community to join us for this fun, family-friendly and free event to support all fighters and celebrate all survivors with keynote speaker Shannon Miller.

hugasurvivor.com

Murals & Melodies with Soul Life and the Goodness Tour

A Mental Health Awareness Healing HeARTS and Soul Family Festival

Jacksonville, FL, April 8, 2019. Soul Life invites you and your family to become part of an artistic legacy and help us paint a lasting mural in Jacksonville at Child Guidance Center's Main Office on Sunday May 5, 10 am to 2 pm. The mural will provide messages of HOPE brought to us by Soul Life and world featured artist, Benjamin Swatez. Luc and the Lovingtons, a World-Soul-Reggae Band, will perform a live interactive concert while we Dance, Paint and Create from our HeARTS.

Activities include group mural painting, live concert, Natural Life craft tents, food trucks meals for purchase & more!  Bring lawn chairs and wear your painting clothes. A film crew will be at this event to make a music video.

Event Date/Time: Sunday, May 5, 10 am-2 pm

Location: The Child Guidance Center, 5776 St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL (Park at San Jose Elementary School across the street from The Child Guidance Center).

Registrations are limited. Tickets are available for purchase in advance at Eventbrite.com (Google Murals and Melodies or click here). Admission is $10.  Children 3 and under are free. All proceeds benefit The Goodness Tour and the Child Guidance Center. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian/parent. On-site waivers must be signed by legal guardians/parents prior to admission.

About the Goodness Tour

The Goodness Tour, founded by Benjamin Swatez and Luc Renaud, is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing music and art experiences to people facing adversity all over the world. The tour brings free music to refugee camps, disaster zones, homeless shelters, hospitals, handicap centers, youth crisis shelters and anywhere that humans are in need of psycho-social support and a positive outlet for expression. For more see thegoodnesstour.org.

About Luc and the Lovingtons

Luc and Lovingtons are a band known for their high-energy live interactive shows, live painting and authentic and powerful messages of Peace and Love. They come with a sincerity and engaging style that leaves all listeners touched with an undeniable feel-good-ness. Luc and the Lovingtons are truly an inspiring and refreshing group that shares their hearts with fans from all walks of life all over the world.

Check out this joy-filled Luc and the Lovingtons music video with Syrian refugees in Jordan (produced by Jason Mraz), Welcome To My House.  As Jason Mraz says Luc and the Lovingtons are "one of my favorite groups, I think they're one of the most heart centered bands out there today."  That is exactly why Soul Life had to bring them to Jacksonville! For more on Luc and the Lovingtons, see lucandthelovingtons.com.

About Child Guidance Center

Child Guidance Center’s mission is to invest in the community by providing counseling and support services to assist children and families in reaching their fullest potential. Building on over 66 years of excellence, their vision is to improve the lives of children and families by offering a full range of comprehensive, state of the art behavioral health services. They serve over 5,000 children annually in our community. For more about the Child Guidance Center see www.childguidancecenter.org.

About Soul Life

The Soul Life mission is to create community connections, heart healing and soulful, conscious living opportunities through workshops, events and wellness platforms. Dr. Chez Leeby teaches tools for healthy living from a multidisciplinary and experiential approach. Dr. Leeby combines and integrates psychology, family therapy, holistic health, art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, movement and soul expression through customized workshops, private wellness parties, therapeutic groups for adults and teens, couples groups, individual and family therapy and 12-week Transformation Programs. For more about Soul Life and Dr. Leeby, see.www.soullife.us.

 Mother’s Day Adoption Event; local foster children find a forever home just in time for Mother’s Day

 WHERE:       Courtroom 204, Duval County Courthouse, 501 W. Adams St., Downtown Jacksonville

 WHO:             Foster children and their adoptive families               

The Hon. David Gooding

Bob Miller, CEO, Family Support Services

Thea Ramirez, Adoption-Match

Elizabeth Wynter, Executive Director, Selfless Love Foundation

 

WHEN:          Thursday, May 9, 2019  9:00 – 9:30 a.m. – media interviews with families and Judge Gooding

[Contact FSS to schedule an interview] Adoption proceedings begin at 10:00 a.m.

 On Thursday, May 9, the Hon. David Gooding will host a special Mother’s Day Adoption Event to unite local foster children with their new adoptive moms. The Hon. David Gooding created the event as a way to finalize adoptions in time for the children and families to have a memorable day in court, creating a bond that is made official in time for Mother’s Day.

 “Every child deserves a loving and caring ‘forever home,’ and this ceremony means the adoptive moms will have their new child or children permanently in their home for Mother’s Day,” said Judge Gooding. “This is a celebration of love for these families and children. Through our community’s involvement, the commitment to adoption and the various agency teams, our children have better outcomes with a permanent loving family.”

 The event will also feature the first Mother’s Day union utilizing Family-Match adoption software.

Juntos Contra el Cáncer

Date/Time: Monday, May 13^th  at 5:00 p.m.

Ackerman Cancer Center – Jacksonville, 10881 San Jose Boulevard

Juntos Contra el Cáncer (Together against Cancer) is a program offering support and education for cancer patients and survivors in the Hispanic community of Northeast Florida.

Living with Lung Cancer Support Network

Date/Time: Monday, May 13^th  at 6:00 p.m.

Ackerman Cancer Center – Jacksonville, 10881 San Jose Boulevard

Living with Lung Cancer Support Network is an educational program for Lung Cancer patients and their caregivers.The program is not only open to cancer patients in Duval County, but aims to be a support network, online and in-person, for anyone in Northeast Florida in need of lung cancer education. To RSVP or for more information, contact Georgia Pennington at (904) 880-5522.

"Ask the Expert" about Assisted Living May 17th 3PM-5PM Starling San Jose (904) 510-5482 9075 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville Fl 32257

Holy Spirit Conference on May17-19.. Solid Rock Church Mandarin 12855 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 ph (904) 268-8895 www.src-ministries.org Hosted by Bishop Vernon and Lady Cynthia Walker Guest Evangelist: Carl & Lady Theresa Brown from Baton Rouge LA Come and Experience 3 Days of "The Out Pouring of the Holy Spirit" Friday Night 7:00PM Saturday 10 AM Sunday 10 Am

Colton’s Heart, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the children of Jacksonville and the Northeast Florida community.  Our mission is to provide financial support to families when their child is suddenly faced with a life threatening injury or illness.   It is inspired by a boy who even at a young age had a very kind and gentle spirit and loved helping others.  With Colton’s tragic loss at just 11 years old, we couldn’t allow his light to go dim.  He was an organ donor which included his heart and gave 4 people the gift of life. Just like the boy it’s named after, Colton’s Heart is genuine, gracious and giving.  We feel his love all around us – so we joyfully celebrate this unending light through this foundation.   We are hosting our 2^nd Annual Colton’s Heart Charity Golf Tournament on May 18, 2019 at Bent Creek Golf Club, and we reaching out to our local Jacksonville merchants/businesses/companies to invite you to help support our event.   Bent Creek Golf Course, 11440 Tournament Lane, Jacksonville, FL 32222 May 18, 2019 Registration Starting Tee Time 8:30 a.m. Entry Fee: $75.00 includes lunch, Range balls (pre-tournament) Register Today: www.ColtonsHeart.org  On behalf of the Colton’s Heart Board of Directors, THANK YOU in advance for your support!

Junior Achievement of North Florida is partnering with Fidelity Investments and Duval County Public Schools’ Parent Academy for the Family Finance and Fun Day on Saturday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The day is designed for families to come together for hands-on workshops on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. The event is free and open to parents and children from pre-kindergarten to 12^th-grade. Space is limited to 150 families or 550 people and registration is required. Breakfast, snacks, and lunch are included. To register, visit bit.ly/familyfinancefun or call (904) 398-9944 ext. 227 or (904) 390-2960. The event will be held at the Schultz Center at 4019 Boulevard Center Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32207.

The purpose of the day is to bring families together to encourage both adults and children to be wise when making financial choices for the family. The day is comprised of workshops for both adults and kids. Adults can choose between sessions on four topics; budget, credit, saving and investing, and home buying. The children’s sessions will follow the JA curriculum designed for each age group which teaches the students how to apply what they are learning in school to the real world.

Families will also participate together in the Family Finance and Fun Day game show with a chance to win gift cards, baskets and more. Families will receive two free tickets to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Information will be available from local summer camps, the Duval County Schools’ Parents Academy, plus families will be able to find information on banking and investing.

Holy Spirit Conference on May17-19.. Solid Rock Church Mandarin 12855 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 ph (904) 268-8895 www.src-ministries.org Hosted by Bishop Vernon and Lady Cynthia Walker Guest Evangelist: Carl & Lady Theresa Brown from Baton Rouge LA Come and Experience 3 Days of "The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit" Friday Night 7:00PM Saturday 10 AM Sunday 10 Am

Archaeologist to Discuss Florida Mission System The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on May 18, 2019 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Keith Ashley, a professor of archaeology at UNF. The title of the lecture is “Mocama Indians and Spanish Missions: Life Beneath the Bell.” When most people think of Spanish Missions, they think of California, New Mexico, or even Texas. What many do not realize is that the Spanish Mission system in Florida occurred earlier and lasted longer than it did in any of those other areas. Among the Mocama-speaking Timucua of northeastern Florida, mission communities existed  between 1587 and 1702. This lecture discusses Mocama life under the mission bell, with emphasis on archaeological excavations at San Juan del Puerto and Santa Cruz de Guadalquini in Jacksonville. The lecture is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday parking is free, and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Tee Up 4 Troops Golf Tournament Tee Up 4 Troops Golf Tournament presented by Mercedes-Benz USA will be held May 19 to benefit Truckin4Troops.org, a nonprofit organization that benefits veterans. The tournament will be held at Blue Sky Golf Course at 1700 Monument Rd. Golfers will be treated to a boxed lunch at 12:30 p.m. followed by a shotgun start at 2 p.m. for the charity golf scramble. The format is a four-player Captain’s choice and prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. There will also be raffle prizes, a putting contest and live auction. The tournament will be followed by an awards ceremony and dinner. Golfers and sponsors can register for the event at https://golfbluesky.com/ under the tournament and events page. Additional information and details on how you can help can be obtained by contacting local tournament director BigJeff Streif at (904) 349-7976 orbigjeffgolf@gmail.com. Truckin4troops.org is a Maryland based non-profit organization that brings hope to heroes by providing transportation, quality of life services, logistics support, and help for disabled troops to attain special need vehicles. More information can be found about the organization at truckin4troops.org.

TWEEN MUSEUM DAY HOSTED BY THE JUNIOR DOCENTS

MAY 19, 2019 1 TO 3 P.M.

Free | No registration required Rising 6th graders youth and their adults are invited to tour the Museum with current Junior Docents and learn more about this exciting youth program. For further information, please email Juniordocents@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630

Men Helping Men – Prostate Cancer Support Group

Date/Time: Monday, May 20^th  at 6:00 p.m.

Ackerman Cancer Center- Jacksonville 10881 San Jose Boulevard

Hosted by Ackerman Cancer Center

Men Helping Men is an educational program developed to help men make informed decisions throughout their prostate cancer journey.

May 21 from 10a-12p at Starling San Jose 9075 San Jose Blvd …. Lunch to follow  

Head and Neck Cancer Support Group (SPOHNC)

Date/Time: Tuesday, May 21^st  at 6:00 p.m.

Ackerman Cancer Center – Jacksonville, 10881 San Jose Boulevard

SPOHNC is a support group for oral, head and neck cancer patients. Our educational meetings provide valuable information to those newly diagnosed, survivors, family members and friends. To RSVP or for more information, contact Chelsea Foote at (904) 880-5522.

Mandarin Women’s Club Welcomes State Attorney Melissa Nelson - May 23rd Doors open 10:30a.m. Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by May 16th; mcshell@comcast.net (904) 859-6299

ART FOR TOTS: CIRCLES AND SEA OF THE EAR RINGS

MAY 25, 2019 9:30 TO 10:30 A.M.

Members $10, Non-Members $15 per pair | Registration required Ages 2 & 3 with an adult Join us for this monthly program that helps develop a child’s sensory and motor skills through art, movement, music, and storytelling. In this class children will view Sea of the Ear Rings by Takashi Soga and try to create circles with their bodies and friends, possibly seeking to defy gravity as Soga does in his work. Back in the studio, children will create art inspired by this unique sculptor. Entry is through Art Connections. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES TROPICAL LUAU PARTY Enjoy the summer evening, eat delicious Polynesian cuisine and  listen to great music. Wear your favorite Hawaiian Shirt. JUNE 7TH • FRIDAY • 6PM - 9PM STARLING AT SAN JOSE 9075 SAN JOSE BLVD

American Legion Mandarin "Fallen Heroes" Post 372 “Office Hours” from 4:30 to 6:00 pm at the Elks Lodge

General Assembly meets the 2nd Thursday of the month starting at 7:00 PM preceded by a social hour which starts at 6:00 PM. We meet at the Mandarin/St. Johns Elks lodge, 4280 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL.

The American Legion Riders Chapter 372 meets on the 3rd Sunday of the month starting at 10:00. They also meet at the Elks lodge

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 372 meets on the 4th Thursday of the month starting at 7:00 PM. Meetings are held at the Elks Lodge. The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 372 also meets on the 4th Thursday of the month starting at 7:00 PM. Also at the Elks Lodge.

Friday Mornings in JaxParks – Summer Volunteer Projects

Timucuan Parks Foundation has partnered with JaxParks for Friday Mornings in JaxParks – Summer Volunteer Projects. The organizations are looking for volunteers to join them Friday, July 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Dutton Island Preserve II at 2001 Dutton Island Rd. W.

Volunteers are asked to meet at 9 a.m. in the parking area. They are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and bring work gloves, loppers, and clippers (if they have them), sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, sunglasses and a full reusable water bottle. Timucuan Parks Foundation will have additional work gloves, tools, and supplies and will provide Nature Valley granola bars and water. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Volunteers under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or scout leader during the project. Volunteers are eligible for community service hours.

Volunteers can sign up at https://uwnefl.galaxydigital.com/need/?agency_id=86336. To receive a waiver or for more information, visit https://www.timucuanparks.org/volunteer/.

This project is made possible through grants from Outdoor Foundation (a National Park Service Challenge grant), REI, and the National Environmental Education Foundation.

Our next job fair event will be taking place on Wednesday July 17th, 2019 at 10AM at The Prime Osborn Convention Center located at 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. This is a unique opportunity for job seekers to get guaranteed face time and make personal connections with recruiters and hiring managers from some of Northeast Florida's best companies and organizations. Companies and organizations will be looking to fill "Hundreds of Positions" in a variety of industries.  Click on the links below for our current roster of partners who will be recruiting at this event. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1baGEx8Dry-J7_-KNGAjLR7YYm5FBBJiT/view

Friday Mornings in JaxParks – Summer Volunteer Projects

Timucuan Parks Foundation has partnered with JaxParks for Friday Mornings in JaxParks – Summer Volunteer Projects. The organizations are looking for volunteers to join them Friday, July 19 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Castaway Island Preserve at 2885 San Pablo Rd. S.

Volunteers are asked to meet at 9 a.m. in the education center. They are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and bring work gloves, loppers, and clippers (if they have them), sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses and a full reusable water bottle. Timucuan Parks Foundation will have additional work gloves, tools, and supplies and will provide Nature Valley granola bars and water. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Volunteers under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or scout leader during the project. Volunteers are eligible for community service hours.

Volunteers can sign up at https://uwnefl.galaxydigital.com/need/?agency_id=86336. To receive a waiver or for more information, visit https://www.timucuanparks.org/volunteer/.

This project is made possible through grants from Outdoor Foundation (a National Park Service Challenge grant), REI, and the National Environmental Education Foundation.

(JACKSONVILLE) – The public is invited to the Breakfast with Our Heroes to honor Purple Heart recipients, meet those that served and extend helping hands to homeless veterans in reemployment programs.  Salute our Nation’s Combat Wounded to commemorate the upcoming National Purple Heart Day on Aug 7th.

Where:  Applebee’s, 5055 J. Turner Butler, Jacksonville 32216 near I-95 and US-1

When:  Saturday, August 3, 2019, from 8 to 10 a.m.

Seating is limited:  Cost is $12 each or 3 for $30.

Purple Heart Recipients:  Complimentary

For tickets, google:  Breakfast with our heroes in Jacksonville.

Info, call:  904 373-8817

There will be a food collection at this event for homeless veterans.  Needs listed at tickets link.

We Can Be Heroes Foundation is an all volunteer not for profit 501(c)3 public foundation located in Jacksonville, FL.  The Foundation honors heroes and helps Veterans, Senior Citizens, Low-Income Families, and Students affected by government and other nonprofits budget cuts.  For more information, visit https://wecanbeheroesfoundation.org

Jacksonville Career Fair

Increase mobility and prevent falls! Join the FREE Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL) fitness class! WHERE: Conviva Care Center – Dunn Ave. (1028 Dunn Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32218) WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from Sept. 4 – Nov. 27. 2019. TIME: 2-3 p.m. Classes meet 3 times a week for 1 hour. Participants receive: FREE exercise and information guide! For more information and registration call Northeast Florida AHEC (904) 482-0189.

Jacksonville, Florida (July 2019) -   Jacksonville, Florida is proud to welcome “Alexandra Nechita: Reimagined” in its United States debut. The extraordinary collection of new works will be on exhibition and available for acquisition at Gallery 725, Jacksonville’s premier Fine Art Gallery.  GALLERY 725.  The limited engagement exhibition will open in previews August 30^th, 2019, and there are three not-to-be missed Artist appearances in the gallery:

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7^TH, 2019: 11:00 AM – NOON    CHILDREN’S EVENT

 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7^TH, 2019                     6 :00 PM – 8:00 PM

 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8^TH, 2019                        1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

 From a very young age, Alexandra Nechita has been hailed as a true Artistic Force. Born in Romania in 1985, Nechita immigrated to the United States at one and a half years old. She began drawing as a toddler. At seven she was working with oil paints and acrylics and by eight years of age, she held her first solo exhibition at a local Los Angeles Library. Alexandra exploded onto the art scene at the age of nine. Her talent was instantly recognized as crowds came to see her often monumental paintings. Art critics and the media began telling the world about this rarest of child prodigies - a master of line and color – an artist with a visual language of her own. That visual language has been unfolding over the last several years, resulting in an extraordinary new body of work that will tour North America in 2019 and 2020. These works represent the years and growth between her time as a celebrated prodigy and the now mature Artist who sees the world through a different lens; while still capturing elements that made her a force in the Art World.

Image:  The Romanian Athenaeum Park Installation

The Romanian born Artist was commissioned in 2017 by the City of Bucharest for a public art installation; her extraordinary sculptures grace the Romanian Athenaeum.  This body of work was made as a tool to help democratize the art experience by virtue of public display. The sculptures are made of two aluminum sheets welded together and hand painted by Alexandra Nechita.

“This ensemble of 8 sculptures function both literally and figuratively as a dialogue about duality and paradoxes. Formally speaking, the sculptures themselves are duplicitous in their composition and structure.

Thematically, I wanted to address the duality between what is and what is not, the parallels and the contradictions that exist between reality and fantasy, between duty and aspiration. The concept of time and timing as a judge of our fate, is represented in the seemingly intangible whimsy of each piece; the past, the present, the future, our

human nature to incessantly put up a fight against time. This body of work is a reconciliation of all these conflicts.”- 

Alexandra Nechita

 

Jacksonville Career Fair, Tuesday September 17th at 10 am! Companies will be hiring for hundreds of jobs in a variety of industries.

Music: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Friday, September 20, 2019

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Come gather round the drums! This developmental music and movement class will have you and your child singing, dancing, and learning to make rhythmic and tonal patterns, playing instruments, and using fun props together with music.

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

Archaeologist to Discuss Ancient Dugout Canoes The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Sept. 21, 2019 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Donna Ruhl, Collections Manager at the Florida Museum of Natural History. The lecture is titled “Florida’s Ancient Dugout Canoes: More Canoes and Continuing Research Offer New Insights and Initiatives.” During a drought, 101 pre-contact period dugout canoes were recorded along the shoreline of Newnans Lake, now called Newnans Lake Canoe Site, the most unique of site its kind in North America. Research on the canoes has led to better interpretation of the ancient peopling of Florida, migration, mobility, trade, travel, paleoclimate and more. Modern technology has allowed researchers to source the woods used in the manufacture of the canoes and to better understand the role and significance of canoes in reconstructing paleoenvironment, past peoples’ lifeways and their ties to ancient water worlds. The lecture is free and open to the public, and complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturdays, parking is free, and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Early Education Conference Brings Back Conscious Discipline Expert Nicole Mercer

                On Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 6 – 9 p.m., Michele Block Gan Yeladim will hold its annual Early Childhood Professional Development Conference with keynote speaker Nicole Mercer at the JCA. This event is free and open to the early childhood educator community thanks to the generosity of The Chartrand Family Fund, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida and CSX. For information, contact Theresa Levy at 730-2100 ext. 237 or theresa.levy@jcajax.org.

About the Keynote Speaker

                Nicole Mercer has been integrating and practicing the approach of Conscious Discipline® in her personal and work life since 2003. She was an early childhood teacher for 15 years and has worked with elementary age children through summer camps and substitute teaching. Her passion for positive learning environments for children led to the opening of her preschool in 2006 where she incorporated Conscious Discipline® into her curriculum. After four successful years using this approach, Nicole became a Conscious Discipline® Certified Instructor in 2009. She provides Conscious Discipline® workshops for parents, educators, schools and early childhood institutions. She holds an M.S. in Child Development from Florida State University and has presented at state and local conferences, provided workshops for private organizations and schools, conducted webinars for Florida’s Office of Early Learning, was an instructor for “Mind in the Making” course at Tallahassee Community College and was selected as a member of Florida’s Panel of Experts collaborative meeting for creating one set of four-year-old learning standards. Her professional roles include preschool teacher, administrator, early childhood specialist and developmental screening coordinator.

Conference Details

Nicole Mercer will deliver a keynote discussion on Building the School Family. This Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten Annual Early Childhood Education Conference provides an important and accessible opportunity for educators throughout Northeast Florida to come together for a unique professional development opportunity. Participants engage in an inspiring educational evening that includes a stimulating keynote address, delicious dinner, continuing educational units (CEUs) and focused breakout sessions.

In 2018, Michele Block Gan Yeladim introduced the Educator Support Network (ESN). This program brings Duval County early childhood education professionals together for a year of focused study with Mercer to elevate their everyday instructional practices and increase the opportunities for success in the classroom. Applications for the 2019-20 cohort are open now.  Contact theresa.levy@jcajax.org for details.

About Michele Block Gan Yeladim

Michele Block Gan Yeladim (MBGY) Preschool and Kindergarten at the Jewish Community Alliance provides unparalleled excellence in early childhood education.  Since our school opened in 1974, we nurture and facilitate each child’s experiences and learning opportunities through play, exploration and creativity.  Children achieve success, gain independence and self-confidence while their individual abilities, learning styles, and developmental pace is respected and valued.

MBGY has been accredited by NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) since 1991 which means the program meets criteria in close to 400 different areas of best practices for young children.  Enrollment in school is open to all children regardless of race, religious affiliation or ethnic origin. JCA membership is not required to participate.

September 26, 2019 Mandarin Women’s Club BINGO Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3030 Hartley Road Reservations by September 19; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765

ome join the fun at the 31th Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Show & Sale.  There will be jewelry making & lapidary demos, NASA Moon Rock and Space Shuttle Tire, rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, beads and jewelry galore.  $5 a day or $8 for all three days.  Children under 12 free with guardian.  $1 off for Senior & Military with ID.  JGMS is a not for profit  501(c)3 organization.  Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm . View more information at (www.jaxgemandmineral.org)

Dates 9/27, 28, 29/2019 – Friday & Saturday  10am-6pm, Sunday 10AM-5PM

The Morocco Shrine

3800 St. Johns Bluff Road South

Jacksonville, FL  32224

“HOW TO BECOME A THERAPY ANIMAL TEAM” WORKSHOP SCHEDULED AT UF HEALTH FOR SEPTEMBER 28th 

JACKSONVILLE, FLA., SEPTEMBER 16, 2019 --- “How to Become a Therapy Animal Team,” a free, informational workshop for people who are interested in learning how to prepare and what is required in order to volunteer in animal-assisted therapy with their pet, will be held at UF Health Jacksonville. The workshop is scheduled for Saturday, September 28 at 10 a.m. in the Tower II, 10^thFloor, Banquet Room at 580 West 8^thStreet, Jacksonville.

Mary Harvey, a member of the Therapy Animal Coalition (TAC) Board, who has over ten years’ experience as a pet therapy volunteer, will lead the workshop. The free program, sponsored by TAC, is a people-only event (except for service animals).

For additional information about the workshop, contact mharvey@therapyanimalcoalition.orgor Sandra.mallard@jax.ufl.edu.

Therapy Animal Coalition (TAC) was founded in 2016 to provide a single resource of information for those interested in volunteering with their pets as well as organizations wishing to start therapy animal programs.

The group facilitates activity, promotes best practices and encourages education and training for handlers and their animal partners. They also assist in establishing new programs in facilities where none exist and help to improve active programs. In conjunction with UNF, TAC hosts the annual Therapy Animal Expo featuring nationally recognized exhibitors and speakers and is providing resources for professionals interested in the use of animals in healthcare and other professional settings. For additional information visit therapyanimalcoalition.org.

October 1^st, 7:30 pm – “Grands Night” Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL  (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com)

Are you ready to become Tobacco Free?  Join us for a FREE Tools to Quit class at Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, October 2, 2019 from 5:30-7:30pm.  FREE patches, lozenges, and gum!  FREE quit plan, workbook, water bottle, stress ball and more!  Call Northeast Florida AHEC at (904) 482-0189 to register and learn about more classes near you.

Are you ready to become Tobacco Free?  Join us for a FREE Tools to Quit class at Humana on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 from 2:00pm-4:00pm.  FREE patches, lozenges, and gum!  FREE quit plan, workbook, water bottle, stress ball and more!  Call Northeast Florida AHEC at (904) 482-0189 to register and learn about more classes near you.  965 San Jose Blvd, Suite 12, Jacksonville, FL 32257 (enter front lobby, conference room to the right).

FIRST ALERT, LOWE’S AND THE JACKSONVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT TEAM UP FOR FIRE PREVENTION MONTH

 October 1, 2019 – In honor of Fire Prevention Month in October and to bring fire safety top of mind, First Alert is teaming up with more than 1,700 Lowe’s stores across the country in a joint effort to spread awareness about the importance of whole home protection. As part of this initiative, Jacksonville residents are invited to participate in a special safety education event with the Jacksonville Fire Department on Saturday, October 12, at local Lowe’s location. The focus of the event will be to educate attendees about how to protect their families and homes from the threats of fire and carbon monoxide (CO).

Each year, nearly 3,000 Americans die from home fires, while CO poisoning claims approximately 450 lives, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NFPA also reports that almost three of every five home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (40%) or no working smoke alarms (17%). Many of these tragedies could be prevented with the proper placement, number and maintenance of working alarms.

“In order to help decrease home fire and CO poisoning incidents, people must be equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge,” said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert, the most trusted name in home safety.* “Protecting homes and families is our number one priority, and by partnering with Lowe’s and local fire departments, we hope to help ensure the long-term safety of communities nationwide.”

Store associates and fire officials will host fun, family-focused activities to teach families about equipping their homes with smoke and CO alarms, as well as planning and practicing a fire escape plan. Children will have the opportunity to build a wooden fire truck in a one-time kids’ workshop and will receive firefighter hats, coloring books and educational materials, while supplies last. In addition, smoke and CO alarms will be on display, including First Alert’s 10-year sealed battery alarms that provide reliable protection for a decade without the hassle of battery replacements. This event will take place on October 12, at the following Lowe’s locations from 10:00 a.m. to noon:

• Lowe’s of E. Jacksonville, 9525 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
• Lowe’s of N. Jacksonville, 13125 City Square Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32218
• Lowe’s of N.E. Jacksonville, 12945 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
• Lowe’s of S. Central Jacksonville, 8054 Philips Highway, Jacksonville, FL 32256
• Lowe’s of S. Jacksonville, 4040 Oldfield Crossing Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32223
• Lowe’s of W. Jacksonville, 5155 Lenox Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205

To ensure your family and home are best protected from fire, follow the guidelines set by the NFPA and U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), which recommend that homes have smoke alarms installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement, and one CO alarm on each level and in or near each sleeping area. To put this into perspective, the average-sized home in America – a two-story, three-bedroom house – needs a minimum of five smoke alarms and four CO alarms.

In many parts of the country, smoke and CO alarms are required by law. Local fire departments and building departments can provide relevant information, and additional information may be found at https://www.firstalert.com/community/legislation/.

 “Together, with Lowe’s and local fire departments, we can spread awareness about fire and CO safety nationwide and the importance of installing reliable protection that you can trust for your home,” added Wey.

To learn more about protecting your family from smoke, fire and carbon monoxide, visit the First Alert website at http://www.firstalert.com/. You also can follow First Alert on Twitter (@FirstAlert) or “like” First Alert on Facebook.

Mandarin Eastern Star chapter will be hosting Henry’s Famous Fish Fry on Saturday, October 12, 2019, from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge Social Hall, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223.  Tickets are $10 (includes tax) for a delicious fish dinner with two sides.  For tickets or information, contact catherinemthomas@msn.com.

Italian American Club of Jacksonville presents 29th ANNUAL FESTA ITALIANA Sat. October 12, 2019 11AM – 8PM Sun. October 13, 2019 Noon – 6PM Authentic Italian Dinners Meatball & Sausage Subs Homemade Desserts Live Music FREE admission and entertainment. Donations for food, beverages, desserts. Come for the homemade Italiano goodies, Stay for the festivities! Italian American Club of Jacksonville, 2838 Westberry Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223 (904) 586-2700 www.iacofjacksonville.com

Italian American Club of Jacksonville presents 29th ANNUAL FESTA ITALIANA Sat. October 12, 2019 11AM – 8PM Sun. October 13, 2019 Noon – 6PM Authentic Italian Dinners Meatball & Sausage Subs Homemade Desserts Live Music FREE admission and entertainment. Donations for food, beverages, desserts. Come for the homemade Italiano goodies, Stay for the festivities! Italian American Club of Jacksonville, 2838 Westberry Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223 (904) 586-2700 www.iacofjacksonville.com

October 15^th – 7:30 pm – REST Night (Charity: fundraiser to assist elderly to remain in their homes) We meet at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL  (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com).

PE: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Thursday, October 17, 2019

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Let’s get physical! This energizing movement class uses a variety of materials (balls, hula hoops, tumbling mats, etc.) to help develop gross motor skills.

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

Mandarin Toastmaster Club, Saturday 10:15 AM

24th Mandarin Women’s Club’s features the Classic Charm Quartet Doors open 10:30 am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by October 17th; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765  

Sellstate High Performance Realty presents their 1st annual Trunk or Treat Thursday, October 24th 6:00-8:30pm. Come Join the food, fun, and costumes 12276 San Jose Blvd. Ste 206 Jacksonville Fl. For questions 904-312-9300 and office1@sellstatehighperformancerealty.com

Mandarin Toastmaster Club, Saturday 10:15 AM

The Discover Culture: Jewish Literary, Film and Arts Festival returns to the JCA this November with an outstanding line-up. The festival, which includes the 23rd Annual Jewish Book Festival, runs from November 3 – 17, and includes literary events, films and family programming free to the entire community thanks to the generosity of sponsors. Opening night, Sunday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m., features YidLive! the comedic storytelling of Canadian duo Eli Battalion and Jamie Elman, creators of YidLife Crisis, a comedy series that pays homage to Yiddish century. The JCA Jewish book festival includes an amazing line-up of authors. On Monday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m., author Susan Solomont will discuss her book Lost and Found in Spain. When her husband is appointed by President Barack Obama to be U.S. Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, Solomont leaves a life she loves to join her husband on a three-and-a-half-year tour overseas. Part memoir, part travelogue, enjoy Solomont’s adventures, culinary and diplomatic, as she finds her place in the Madrid Jewish community. The JCA festival book club returns on Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 12 p.m. with author Michael David Lukas’ The Last Watchman of Old Cairo, including a Skype appearance by the author. Lukas’ novel is a captivating story of Cairo’s Ibn Ezra Synagogue from the 11th century to present day. It is part family quest, part detective story. On Monday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., Sarah Rose tell the story of D-Day Girls, about the extraordinary women recruited by Britain’s elite spy agency. Winston Churchill knew he needed more than conventional military strategy to defeat Hitler. His creation, the Special Operations Executive, recruited women spies. Together, they destroyed train lines, ambushed Nazis and much more! This is a heroic tale honoring bravery and strength. Matthew Goodman joins us on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. with his book The City Game. This book tells the thrilling and heartbreaking story of the 1950 City College of New York Beavers, the only team in history to win both the NIT and NCAA basketball tournaments in the same year. This accomplishment was, by every measure, extraordinary as every single player was either Jewish or African American. It includes scapegoats, corruption and powerful religious and political leaders. This year’s festival includes our first-ever double feature book event on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. Rebecca Erbelding and Michael Dobbs will share a Jewish historical perspective on immigration with their books Rescue Board and The Unwanted. Rescue Board tells the history of the War Refugee Board, the only official American response to the Nazi’s Final Solution. Utilizing extensive archival resources, and, in the process, creating a digital archive of the War Refugee Board’s records, Erbelding greatly aids our understanding of America’s response to the murder of Europe’s Jews. The Unwanted is an intimate account of Jewish families from a small village at the edge of the Black Forest who desperately pursue American visas to flee the Nazis. This is a heroic tale honoring bravery and strength. The festival also brings three fantastic films to Jacksonville as part of the Jewish film line-up. The Israeli film Shoelaces will show on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. This family dramedy gives a rare, honest depiction of special needs relationships. 93Queens will show on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. and tells the story of Ezras Nashim, “Women’s Help,” the first of its kind, all-female ambulance corps in New York City. The Last Resort, showing on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m., offers an entertaining look at 1970s Miami and the Jewish retirees who settled South Beach post WWII. On Sunday, Nov. 10 at 10 a.m., children and families can enjoy an interactive presentation of The Mitzvah Musician and a special magic show. This program is in partnership with PJ Library. The JCA Jewish Cultural Arts Festival is from November 3 – 14. All events are free and open to the community thanks to the generosity of our sponsors. For more information or to support this important Jewish cultural arts event, contact Lior Spring at 730-2100 ext. 318 or lior.spring@jcajax.org or visit jcajax.org/jcafest.

November 5^th – 7:30 pm – SHEAF Night (Charity: Student Higher Education Award Fund - grant)

We meet at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL  (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com).

Storytime: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Friday, November 15, 2019

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Reading rocks! You and your child will enjoy stories, songs, puppets, shaky eggs and much more! Come join us for a relaxing, fun morning in this age appropriate storytime class.

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

Archaeologist to Discuss Exploration of Ancient City The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Nov. 16, 2019 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Scott Branting, a professor at the University of Central Florida. The title of his lecture is “The Rise and Fall of Kerkenes: New Technologies for Exploring Ancient Cities.” For almost one hundred years the immense metropolis at Kerkenes in central Turkey has lain shrouded in mystery.  Scholars have puzzled over this large pre-planned city apparently built and occupied by the Phrygians, of King Midas fame. It existed for a brief period of time between the fall of the Assyrian Empire and rise of the Persian Empire around 550 BC.  Over the past twenty-seven years, the site has been a showcase of new technologies being used alongside active excavation. These methods helped determine the plan of the buried city and the activities and interactions of the people who inhabited it.  Together, the latest excavations and technologies are shedding new light on what transpired in this ancient city in the years prior to its fiery destruction. The lecture is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday, parking is free and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.  

COMMUNITY SUPPORTS CHILDREN WORKING HARD TO FIND THEIR VOICES

The Walk for Apraxia® celebrates children with apraxia of speech and recognizes them for their hard work.  Families, professionals, students, and other supporters join together to lift up children

with apraxia of speech, because they believe every child deserves a voice.

Jacksonville – (October 29th, 2019) – The 2019 Jacksonville Walk for Apraxia event will be held on November 17th, 2019 at The Bolles School to benefit children with apraxia of speech. Registration begins at 8:30 AM with the Walk beginning at 10:00 AM. Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with the diagnosis of apraxia of speech generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say. However, they have difficulty learning or carrying out the complex sequenced movements that are necessary for intelligible speech.  The Walk for Apraxia is held across the country as a means to heighten awareness and raise funding in the hopes that all children with apraxia may have access to the support they need to find their voices. The Walk is open to all adults and children. Proceeds from the Walk for Apraxia benefit the mission of Apraxia Kids. “The walk is a day for all of our families to come together, new and old,” said Walk Coordinator Michelle Leigh. “The children play, have their faces painted, dance, and receive medals for all of their hard work. I encourage families to invite their friends, their children’s friends, and their extended families so that each child feels supported. All of the kids play together regardless of ability or age in a fun and safe environment. It is the best day of the year! All of the children & parents look forward to it. The local community is the backbone of support for our kids. We need the community involved in order to make the city more aware and to work towards change.” Raising awareness is one of the most tangible ways that communities at large can help children with apraxia thrive. Collective increased awareness means that children will be diagnosed faster, resulting in better, earlier intervention. Anyone interested in covering this event or the story of the Walk Coordinator can contact apraxiajax@gmail.com or visit the event website at http://community.apraxia-kids.org/jacksonvillewalk.

Northeast Florida Area Health Education Center (AHEC). We offer group support with the Tobacco Free Florida AHEC Cessation Program.

Fall into Good Health by Becoming Tobacco Free! Join us for a FREE Tools to Quit class at Humana in Mandarin on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 from 5:30 - 7:30PM.

FREE patches, lozenges, and gum! FREE quit plan, workbook, water bottle, stress ball and more!

Call Northeast Florida AHEC at (904) 482-0189 to register and learn more about classes near you.

Meetings of Mandarin Eastern Star - Memorial Night

We meet at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL  (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com).

November 21, 2019 Mandarin Women’s Club’s welcomes local author Dorothy Fletcher Doors open 10:30 am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by November 14th; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765

Foster’s lecture will focus on this brand new  book and highlight how Florida’s tourism and economic growth began before the railroads, including by Harriet Beecher Stowe through her writings about Florida. His presentation will include the wonderful illustrations of the time and his books will be available for purchase. Lecture is on November 21, presented by the Mandarin Museum & Historical Society in partnership with and held at the Mandarin Community Club, located at 12447 Mandarin Rd. Refreshments begin at 6:30 pm with the lecture at 7 pm. It is free and all are invited and encouraged to attend.

Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Fall Bazaar

 

Freedom Boat Club Open House Freedom Boat Club will be offering free boat rides on Saturday, Nov. 23 at their Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina. Everyone is invited to stop by from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to check out the local waterways, tour the fleets of more than 25 new boats, check out Freedom Boat Club’s state-of-the-art reservation system, meet the crew and talk with members who can share their Freedom Boat Club experience. Freedom Boat Club at Julington Creek Marina is located at 12807 San Jose Blvd. RSVP to Bill Edinger at bedinger@freedomboatclub.com or call (904) 746-0018.

Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society Fall Bazaar

 

December 3^rd – 7:30 pm – ESTARL Night (Charity: Grants for seminary students) We meet at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com).  

December 7 - 20th Annual Winter Celebration

The Mandarin Museum & Historical Society invites all to the free and old-fashioned Winter Celebration in Mandarin from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM on Saturday, December 7. 11964 Mandarin Road at Walter Jones Historical Park. For complete info: www.mandarinmuseum.net/events/winter-celebration, 268-0784.

DECEMBER 2019 CONCERTS The North Florida Women’s Chorale presents their 27 th Annual Christmas performance. “Seven Joys” From the haunting melodies of ancient carols to light-hearted contemporary holiday songs, the Chorale will present delightful pieces accompanied by a string quartet.  Come to this free concert in a beautiful setting to be reminded of Seven Joys we experience during this wonderful season.  The beloved Bach "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" selections from "Magnificat" of Kim Andre Anrnesen, & "Chanukah Lights and & "Do You Hear What I Hear?” are some of the exciting songs you will hear in the holiday program. There are two free performances scheduled: Sunday, December 8, 2019, at 4:00 pm Arlington Presbyterian Church, 1351 Sprinkle Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32211 (Next to Drew Park) Reception to follow Friday, December 27, 2019, at 7:00 pm Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine, 38 Cathedral Place, St Augustine, FL 32084 Come early for best seats! We hope to Sing you there! On Memorial Day, May 25, 2020, many of our singers will have the privilege of joining with other choruses to perform at Carnegie Hall, New York City, NY. They will be under the direction of composer and director John Rutter. Look for our local concerts next spring.

Mandarin Eastern Star December 17^th – 7:30 pm – Holiday dinner after meeting

We meet at the Mandarin Masonic Lodge, 2914 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, FL  (contact: catherinemthomas@msn.com)    

Mandarin Women’s Club’s “Holiday Luncheon & Raffle” Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road, Jacksonville Fl 32257 Reservations by December 12th bkwaldrep@cmcast.net or (904) 571-6765

JCA Annual Chanukkah Celebration On Monday, Dec. 23 at 5:45 p.m., the JCA will hold its annual JCA Chanukkah Party. The event brings JCA families together to recognize the beginning of the eight-day festival of lights with an evening of celebration and community. Every year, the JCA community gathers around the outdoor chanukiyah, created by local sculptor David Ponsler, for this celebration. This year, CEO Adam Chaskin leads the lighting ceremony, and JCA Family and Jewish Outreach Director Dave Flagler leads in prayer and songs. After the ceremony, JCA families and members will enjoy a family-style dinner along with games and crafts for children. This event is free to JCA valued members. For more information or to register, call 730-2100 ext. 228. On the day of the event, use #shinethelight and tag the JCA (@jaxjca) in your Chanukkah celebrations.

Free Boat Rides with Freedom Boat Club

Freedom Boat Club will be hosting their Open House and Boater Experience Day at Camachee Cove Marina on Saturday, Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to visit the dock, tour the fleet of new boats, check out Freedom Boat Club’s state-of-the-art reservation system, meet the crew and talk with members who can share their Freedom Boat Club experience. Free boat rides will be offered from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. The boat club is at 3036-A Harbor Drive in St. Augustine. RSVP to Bill Edinger at bedinger@freedomboatclub.com or call (904) 746-0018.

Freedom Boat Club invites everyone to join them for their Open House and Boater Experience Day at Beach Marine on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Freedom Boat Club at Beach Marine is at 2315 Beach Blvd. in Jacksonville Beach. Everyone is invited to visit the dock, tour the fleet of boats, check out Freedom Boat Club’s state-of-the-art reservation system, meet the crew and talk with members who can share their Freedom Boat Club experience. Free boat rides will be offered from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can also tour the Freedom Boat Club “Boffice” which is a 70-foot houseboat that serves as their office. It includes a huge upstairs space available to reserve for events. RSVP to Bill Edinger at bedinger@freedomboatclub.com or call (904) 746-0018.

Freedom Boat Club is hosting an Open House and Boater Experience Day at Julington Creek Marina on Saturday, Jan. 18. Everyone is invited to stop by from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to visit the dock, tour the fleet of boats, check out Freedom Boat Club’s state-of-the-art reservation system, meet the crew and talk with members who can share their Freedom Boat Club experience. Free boat rides will be offered from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Freedom Boat Club at Julington Creek Marina is located at 12807 San Jose Blvd. RSVP to Bill Edinger at bedinger@freedomboatclub.com or call (904) 746-0018.

Mandarin's Second Saturday Arts and Farmers Market 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. First Christian Church, 11924 San Jose Blvd.

River City Women’s Club General Meeting and Fashion Trends program 10:30 a.m. Ramada Inn, 3130 Hartley Road RSVP: (904) 262-8719

Admissions Open House at Jacksonville Country Day School:

Start the New Year Tobacco-Free! We give you FREE nicotine patches, gum or lozenges to help you quit!

Join us for FREE group support at Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. FREE quit plan, workbook, and more!

This class meets on Tuesday, January 21, 2020, from 5:30pm-7:30pm.

Call Northeast Florida AHEC at (904) 482-0189 to register and learn about more classes near you.

Mandarin Women’s Club’s welcomes Clara White Mission Doors open 10:30 am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by January 16th; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765

Archaeologist to Discuss Neanderthal Hunting Strategies The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on Jan. 25, 2020 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. Jacqueline Meier, professor of Anthropology at the University of North Florida. The title of her lecture is “Neanderthal Hunting Strategies in the Northwestern Mediterranean.” Until recently, the general research consensus supported a hypothesis that prior to the Upper Paleolithic period, Neanderthals and other archaic Homo species hunted a narrow range of animals and exploited mainly large herd animals across the Mediterranean region. Dr. Meier proposes that our early human ancestors used diverse strategies to meet the diverse subsistence demands in a wide array of environments. Her presentation will reveal new data about hunting practices from some of the earliest Paleolithic archaeological sites in France to reconsider the notion that Neanderthals exclusively hunted big game. Together, the recent findings of this zooarchaeological research yield new insights into early human and Neanderthal life-ways. The lecture is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday, parking is free and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are open to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

The Jacksonville Fine Arts Forum Luncheon

January 28, 2020 at 11:30 San Jose Country Club

Reservation by Jan. 21^st

Contact Info: Jean Hopper Jeanhop@hotmail.com  Or 919-622-4010

Lifetree Café, conversations about Life and Faith

Conspiracies seem to abound today, so….this week, we’ll explore commonly reported cover-ups, schemes, and secrets in “Conspiracies: What ‘They’ Don’t Want You to Know”.  We’ll see a filmed interview with Ross Hemsworth who says ““I think those people with exploring minds are the ones interested in conspiracy theories,” among other things.  What do you think?  Share your thoughts.  Admission to the 60-minute event is free.  Lifetree Café is a place where stimulating conversations are served up in a casual, comfortable, safe setting. More information available on LTCJAX.org, fb.com/LTCJAX, or from George@LifetreeCafeJAX.org (904) 731-0731.  

Admissions Open House at Jacksonville Country Day School:

Learning Centers: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Thursday, February 6, 2020

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Play in Pre-K! You and your child will have the chance to explore different materials in an open center time just like the children do in the Pre-K classes at JCDS. There will be light exploration, artistic centers, building centers and more!

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

BLACK FILMS MATTER PRESENTS PRIVATE SCREENING OF MUCH-ANTICIPATED FILM THE PHOTOGRAPH JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (February 11, 2020)  – In honor of Black History Month and Valentine's Day, Black Films Matter presents a private screening of The Photograph, a modern romance by up and coming African American director Stella Meghie and acclaimed producer Will Packer. The love story stars Emmy nominated actress Issa Rae, and BAFTA award nominated actor Lakeith Stanfield. Packer says “I hope people respond to this in the same way they responded to Love Jones, Brown Sugar, Love and Basketball and Poetic Justice.” WHEN:    Friday, Feb. 14, 2020   7 p.m. – 10 p.m. WHERE:  Cinemark Tinseltown and XD , 535 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 Guests are encouraged to arrive red carpet-ready by 7 p.m. Auditorium doors will open at 7:30 pm for the film viewing. Gainesville Black Wall Street and The Influence Crew are the organizers of this second installment of Jacksonville's Black Films Matter series. Carla Mechele will be a live correspondent from the red carpet at the event, capturing interviews with movie-goers after the film. Watch on Facebook Live at www.facebook.com/blkfilmsmatter. Tickets are $30. Purchase at thephotographjax.eventbrite.com.

Archaeologist to Discuss Earliest Seafaring Debate The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet on February 15, 2020 at noon in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Dr. John Cherry, Professor at Brown University. The title of his lecture is “Taking to the water: New Evidence and New Debates About the Earliest Seafaring in the World.” Until recently, archaeologists have supposed that the seas and oceans represented a barrier to human dispersal, and that islands were among the last places on earth to be colonized by people. However, startling new data have come to light just in the last few years that suggest a far longer antiquity for seafaring, reaching back hundreds of thousands, and perhaps as much as a million years. This lecture outlines what we know, with reasonable certainty, about patterns of global maritime dispersal in the past few tens of thousands of years and then presents the new evidence and its strengths and weaknesses. The lecture is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards in the Archaeology Lab. On Saturday, parking is free and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are available to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com.

Solid Rock International Ministries Anniversary Celebration  12855 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville FL 32258 (904) 268-8895 *Contending for the Faith* Bishop Vernon L. Walker and Lady Cynthia Walker 32 Years of Service Anniversary Celebration Guest Speaker, Pastor Robert Scales Jesus Is The Answer Ministries Watertown, TN Saturday February 15,2020 6PM Sunday February 16, 2020 10AM Monday February 17, 2020 7PM  

Solid Rock International Ministries Anniversary Celebration  12855 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville FL 32258 (904) 268-8895 *Contending for the Faith* Bishop Vernon L. Walker and Lady Cynthia Walker 32 Years of Service Anniversary Celebration Guest Speaker, Pastor Robert Scales Jesus Is The Answer Ministries Watertown, TN Saturday February 15,2020 6PM Sunday February 16, 2020 10AM Monday February 17, 2020 7PM

Solid Rock International Ministries Anniversary Celebration  12855 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville FL 32258 (904) 268-8895 *Contending for the Faith* Bishop Vernon L. Walker and Lady Cynthia Walker 32 Years of Service Anniversary Celebration Guest Speaker, Pastor Robert Scales Jesus Is The Answer Ministries Watertown, TN Saturday February 15,2020 6PM Sunday February 16, 2020 10AM Monday February 17, 2020 7PM

The Kingsley Heritage Celebration hosted by the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve will take place on Feb. 15 and Feb. 22, and this year the celebration is part of a series of events to mark the 400^th commemoration of the first enslaved Africans brought to English-occupied North America.

On Saturday, Feb. 15, events begin at 10 a.m. with tours of the Planters Home and kid’s corner crafts. At 1 p.m., Dr. Johnnetta Cole will present “Looking Back in Order to go Forward.” Dr. Cole is an author, anthropologist and educator who served as the director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and was the first African American female president of Spellman College. At 2 p.m., the Geechee Gullah Ring Shouters, led by Griffin Lotson, will perform, and at 3 p.m. there will be an archaeology hike through the slave quarters with the Florida Public Archeology Network.

On Saturday, Feb. 22, the Kingsley Heritage Celebration continues with a living history timeline that will transport visitors through the history of Fort George Island. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include an interactive trip through the past along with hands-on lessons in things like candle making, writing with a quill and ink and more. Historic weapons demonstrations will be at 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm.

The family-friendly events are free. Kingsley Plantation is located at 11676 Palmetto Road on Fort George Island.

Jax Mardi Gras event will be parading through Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville, FL; February 19, 2020 - This is the weekend of Mardi Gras madness.  The largest local Mardi Gras event of the year is coming to Jacksonville Beach: the annual Mardi Gras Jax pub crawl and celebration. On Saturday, February 22nd, come celebrate New Orleans’ style with custom New Orleans Themed drinks and drink specials, costumes and beads galore! Sign-in is at Lynch's Irish Pub, Sneakers, or The Tavern on 1st Street and participants can take part in a bead scavenger hunt , best dressed competition or other games to have the opportunity to win over $10,000 is cash and prizes from Sweetwater, Jean Pickett Real Estate, Home Pro Inspections, Bayou Rum, Your 850, Auditmacs, BluHorn and other Sponsors. The event goes from 3pm to 9pm and is 21 years old and up.  Tickets are still being sold this week leading up to the event at www.mardigrasjax.com for $20 dollars. Tickets can also be purchased the day of the event  for $25

13 of Jacksonville Beach’s most popular bars and restaurants will be participating in this year’s biggest Mardi Gras event.  They include Lynches Irish Pub, Sneakers, Ritz, Brix, Shim Sham Room, Surfer Bar, The Tavern, The Wreck, Salt, Mangos, V's Pizza, Flask and Cannon and Hoptinger. After purchasing a ticket, participants will receive a wrist band for receiving drink specials, plenty of Mardi Gras beads and a scavenger hunt map with all the participating locations and contests.

There will be different prizes and beads being given out throughout the night at all the different participating venues.  For each Mardi Gras pub crawler who visits each participating venue and submits their pics in the Photo Scavenger hunt, they can win cash and prizes.

Attendees need to be dressed in their best Mardi Gras inspired costumes as there will be a photo contest to crown the King and Queen of Mardi Gras.  So come dressed in your wildest Mardi Gras costume and join Jacksonville Beach  to celebrate Mardi Gras!

To get more information about JaxMardiGras.com or to purchase tickets please visit JaxMardiGras.com

Mandarin Women’s Club’s “Annual Fashion Show” Febraury 27, 2020 Doors open 10:30am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by February 20th; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765Mandarin Women’s Club’s “Annual Fashion Show”

TWO-TIME EMMY AWARD WINNER DEBUTS ONE WOMAN SHOW: LESSONS WE WERE NEVER TAUGHT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (February 25, 2020)  – Two-time Emmy award winning former news producer and author Nikesha Elise Williams will debut her One Woman Show, Lessons We Were Never Taught, to kick off Women's History Month.

Written and performed by Williams, and directed by local art influencer Barbara Colachiello, the show features "storytelling through lyrical prose and spoken word." The community is invited to witness a poetic exploration of life, love and healing.

WHEN:            Thursday, March 5 - Saturday, March 7 ; Doors Open: 7:30 p.m.   Show Starts: 8:00 p.m.

                             Sunday, March 8 -Doors Open: 1:30 p.m.  Show Starts: 2:00 p.m.

WHERE:          603 King Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Tickets are $17. Purchase at www.newwrites.com. Trailer: https://youtu.be/wDtHW79kNWA  

Spring Fling An entirely FREE Event! Join us to celebrate the coming of warm weather, good friends, and an amazing community! MARCH 7 | 1 0 AM - 2 PM, 1 2 7 1 0 SAN JOSE BLVD, WATSON MANDARIN SOUTH Games | Kid's Craft | Music|Hot Dogs | Chips | Lemonade

JCA Hosts Community Antisemitism Talk with Expert Günther Jikeli

On Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m., the Jewish Community Alliance, in partnership with the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast and OneJax, will host Antisemitism: New Unease in Europe and the U.S. with speaker Günther Jikeli at the JCA. This program is free to the community and made possible through the Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter Fund for Jewish Preservation. Registration is required.

About the Speaker

Günther Jikeli holds the Erna B. Rosenfeld Professorship at the Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism/ Borns Jewish Studies Program and is an associate professor of Germanic Studies at Indiana University. He is a historian and sociologist of modern Europe, with particular interests in the history of antisemitism and in critical antisemitism studies.

In 2013, he was awarded the Raoul Wallenberg Prize in Human Rights and Holocaust Studies. Günther’s academic work was recognized in 2019 by The Algemeiner as one of “The Top 100 People Positively Influencing Jewish Life.”

His current research projects include works on the impact of contemporary antisemitism in France and Germany, Dieudonné, intergenerational transmissions of antisemitic beliefs, and perceptions of the Holocaust.

For information and registration, call 730-2100 ext. 228 or visit jcajax.org/ji.

PICKWICK PARK COMMUNITY YARD SALE

 

Archaeologist to Discuss Maya Food and Drink Residues The Archaeological Institute of America—Jacksonville Society will meet at noon on March 21 in Building 51 at the University of North Florida to hear a lecture by Lisa Duffy, a doctoral candidate at the University of Florida. The lecture is titled “Multiple Research Techniques Applied to Food and Drink Residues Reveal New Insight into the Maya Civilization “ Duffy and her colleagues are investigating the foods and beverages consumed by the ancient Maya by analyzing organic chemical residues and starch grains in pottery vessels and on stone grinding tools. They use artifact analysis, liquid chromatography- mass spectrometry, and starch grain analysis by microscopy to identify a broad range of food items and reveal ancient Maya “recipes.” This approach provides insights into ingredient choice and methods of combining, processing, and serving foods and drinks. Focused on periods of cultural transition at several pre-contact Maya sites in Belize and Guatemala, the research reveals intriguing information about the relationships among people, their foods, and their environmental and social circumstances. The lecture is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served afterwards. On Saturday, parking is free and the faculty/staff/vendor spaces are available to everyone. For more information, contact Melva Price at (904)241-9411 or aiajaxsoc@gmail.com

Mandarin Women’s Club Welcomes Comedian “Juanita Lolita” March 26 Doors Open at 10:30Am Ramada Inn Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road Reservations by March 19th; bkwaldrep@comcast.net or (904) 571-6765

2020 Celebrity Chefs Tasting & Silent Auction  March 26, 2020 11am – 1pm

Location: Prime Osborne Convention Center 1000 Water St, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Long- The Celebrity Chefs Tasting and Silent Auction is the annual fundraiser of The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary.  Through this annual event, the Women’s Auxiliary supports the many Salvation Army programs that contribute to lasting and positive changes in the lives of those in need on Florida’s First Coast.

Diners stop for a nibble from each station, where a local “celebrity” is serving up a spoonful of their favorite recipe.  Patrons of this event are always delighted to mingle with local media personalities, sports figures, government officials, and local business leaders.

The two hour event includes a Silent Auction, which raises thousands of dollars each year for special projects. Always present at the Auction are such items as artwork, collectibles, jewelry, dinners, spa treatments, sports memorabilia, weekend getaways, rounds of golf, designer accessories, and much more.

Tickets are $30, price includes free parking, the tasting event, the silent auction, and a free cookbook containing the recipes featured at the tasting.

Ticket link: https://guestlist.co/events/631857?fbclid=IwAR3HsWaOO5obJiGbOuibWsodcNaD9obu2vyGisV7VNJkaUDLk7Lk2f22Dr8

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/417962422428418/

Art: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Friday, March 27, 2020

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Let’s get artsy! This art class will educate you and your child about a famous artist while experimenting with different materials in a developmentally friendly way to create a beautiful art piece inspired by that artist.

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show is coming to TIAA Bank Field and Metro Park Marina in April

The weekend show will be from Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5, 2020

Jacksonville, FL, Jan. 16, 2020 – For the third year, JBM & Associates is bringing the Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show to town. This year, the event will be a little bit different with boats and booths set up inside and outside TIAA Bank Field and the in-water portion at Metropolitan Park Marina. The producers have been working hard to line up boats of all sizes, marine products and services, plus activities for the whole family.

“We are still working on some final touches, but so far this show is on track to be our best show yet,” said Jacqui McGuinness, president of JBM & Associates. “Setting up boats on a football field is a first for us and for the Jaguars home field as well, and what we have planned is sure to please. Last year, we saw about 6,000 people come through the gates at Metro Park, we are expecting an even bigger number through the gates of TIAA Bank Field. We hope everyone will enjoy stepping on the field and onto some gorgeous boats.”

The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show will feature hundreds of boats for sale including powerboats, jet boats, skiffs, cruisers, ski boats and yachts. There will also be more than 70 vendors with marine products, services and more. Top local fishing guides, including Captain Chris Rooney, will be leading adult fishing seminars and Captain Don Dingman from Hook the Future will be on hand to teach kids how to fish like grown-ups.

The Freedom Boat Club’s Freedom Boat Hut will be at the marina to provide free boat rides on the floating tiki bar. There will be boats of all kinds set up in the water and there will also be food trucks set up near the docks. The band, Acoustic Shade, will be performing live during the show. The producers have arranged a shuttle to bring visitors to and from the marina and TIAA Bank Field.

The City of Jacksonville is a sponsor of the event. Tickets can be purchased at jacksonvilleinwaterboatshow.com and range from $5 to $10. Entry to the in-water portion of the show is free. The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show runs Friday, April 3 from noon until 6 p.m., Saturday, April 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There is some space still available for businesses interested in participating or becoming a sponsor. Contact Chelsea Lupo at chelsea@jbmshows.com or call (864) 250-9713.

About JBM & Associates

JBM & Associates is a company made up of women who have been producing boat shows around the country for more than 19 years. They focus on the customer’s needs, exhibitors and vendors to create experiences, not just events. In addition to the Jacksonville In-Water Boat show, they also produce the Charleston Boat Show, Savannah Boat Show, Charleston In-Water Boat Show and the Wilmington Boat Show. For more information, visit jbmshows.com.

The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show is coming to TIAA Bank Field and Metro Park Marina in April

The weekend show will be from Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5, 2020

Jacksonville, FL, Jan. 16, 2020 – For the third year, JBM & Associates is bringing the Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show to town. This year, the event will be a little bit different with boats and booths set up inside and outside TIAA Bank Field and the in-water portion at Metropolitan Park Marina. The producers have been working hard to line up boats of all sizes, marine products and services, plus activities for the whole family.

“We are still working on some final touches, but so far this show is on track to be our best show yet,” said Jacqui McGuinness, president of JBM & Associates. “Setting up boats on a football field is a first for us and for the Jaguars home field as well, and what we have planned is sure to please. Last year, we saw about 6,000 people come through the gates at Metro Park, we are expecting an even bigger number through the gates of TIAA Bank Field. We hope everyone will enjoy stepping on the field and onto some gorgeous boats.”

The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show will feature hundreds of boats for sale including powerboats, jet boats, skiffs, cruisers, ski boats and yachts. There will also be more than 70 vendors with marine products, services and more. Top local fishing guides, including Captain Chris Rooney, will be leading adult fishing seminars and Captain Don Dingman from Hook the Future will be on hand to teach kids how to fish like grown-ups.

The Freedom Boat Club’s Freedom Boat Hut will be at the marina to provide free boat rides on the floating tiki bar. There will be boats of all kinds set up in the water and there will also be food trucks set up near the docks. The band, Acoustic Shade, will be performing live during the show. The producers have arranged a shuttle to bring visitors to and from the marina and TIAA Bank Field.

The City of Jacksonville is a sponsor of the event. Tickets can be purchased at jacksonvilleinwaterboatshow.com and range from $5 to $10. Entry to the in-water portion of the show is free. The Jacksonville In-Water Boat Show runs Friday, April 3 from noon until 6 p.m., Saturday, April 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There is some space still available for businesses interested in participating or becoming a sponsor. Contact Chelsea Lupo at chelsea@jbmshows.com or call (864) 250-9713.

About JBM & Associates

JBM & Associates is a company made up of women who have been producing boat shows around the country for more than 19 years. They focus on the customer’s needs, exhibitors and vendors to create experiences, not just events. In addition to the Jacksonville In-Water Boat show, they also produce the Charleston Boat Show, Savannah Boat Show, Charleston In-Water Boat Show and the Wilmington Boat Show. For more information, visit jbmshows.com.

Yoga: Mini Moments at JCDS!

Thursday, April 23, 2020

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Namaste… Come enjoy a different spin on yoga with your child. This children’s yoga class includes songs and stories while learning some of the basics of yoga practice.

Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about our school. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com.

Location:  Jacksonville Country Day School, 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL  32256; (904) 641-6644

https://www.jcds.com/admissions/admissions-events

Women of Flowers: Transplanted In America

Women of Flowers: Transplanted in America, a pop-up art exhibit featuring the women artists of Artugee, launching on IWD, March 8! Join us for a special one-week pop-up exhibit featuring the visual art, jewelry, food, and crafts of the women artists of Artugee. We're exploring the idea of how we can bloom where we are planted, whoever we are and wherever we are...but especially through art, creative expression, and sharing our stories. We will kick off the week with an art show opening featuring the art, jewelry, baked goods, and handcrafts of these international women, from 2-5 p.m. It will be an Open House with a special exhibit of the women's art in our She Shed and Garden, plus you can see all the other art that's part of our BLOOMS exhibit. Kids and adults will enjoy henna painting, fun crafts, and good food for the opening event. Plus enjoy all the art of our BLOOMS exhibit! Then on Tuesday, March 10, we're offering a cooking workshop where you can learn how to make dolma (stuffed grape leaves) as part of our Cook + Write Workshop (a separate fee). While the food is cooking, we will conduct a writing circle to share our stories of food, love, and culture. A second workshop on Saturday, March 14, will give you a chance to make paper flowers, flower jewelry, and fabric art: crochet, sewing, and felt. Then we will write about that, too! DETAILS: Opening: Sunday, May 8, 2-5 p.m. (free) Cook + Write Workshop: Tuesday, May 10. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ($10) Art of Flowers Workshop: Saturday, May 14, 1-4 p.m. Hope you'll join us for this extraordinary experience of celebrating these transplanted beauties in our own backyard. Art by Malath Alarnosi

Notice is hereby given that the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Governance Committee is scheduled for the following times: ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Tuesday, May 19, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Friday, July 31, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 8, 2020 All meetings will take place from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CCGJ Conference Room 300 Water Street, Suite 201 Jacksonville, FL 32202 This is a public meeting and all interested persons are invited to attend. Please mark your calendars accordingly. Pursuant to the American with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1-2 business days notification to process; last minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please contact Disabled Services Division at: V(904) 630- 4940, TTY-(904) 630-4933, or email your request to ADAAccommodationRequest@coj.net. For more information contact the Cultural Council: (904) 358-3600. cc: CCGJ Board of Directors/Staff Cultural Service Grant Recipient Leadership City Council Liaison Media Posted Notice Board – 1st Floor City Hall Posted Notice Board – CCGJ Offices CityC@coj.net

Cultural Council of Jacksonville Meeting Notice is hereby given that the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Governance Committee is scheduled for the following times: ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Tuesday, May 19, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Friday, July 31, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 8, 2020 All meetings will take place from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CCGJ Conference Room 300 Water Street, Suite 201 Jacksonville, FL 32202 This is a public meeting and all interested persons are invited to attend. Please mark your calendars accordingly. Pursuant to the American with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1-2 business days notification to process; last minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please contact Disabled Services Division at: V(904) 630- 4940, TTY-(904) 630-4933, or email your request to ADAAccommodationRequest@coj.net. For more information contact the Cultural Council: (904) 358-3600. cc: CCGJ Board of Directors/Staff Cultural Service Grant Recipient Leadership City Council Liaison Media Posted Notice Board – 1st Floor City Hall Posted Notice Board – CCGJ Offices CityC@coj.net

Cultural Council of Jacksonville Meeting Notice is hereby given that the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Governance Committee is scheduled for the following times: ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Tuesday, May 19, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Friday, July 31, 2020 ● CCGJ Governance Committee Quarterly Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 8, 2020 All meetings will take place from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CCGJ Conference Room 300 Water Street, Suite 201 Jacksonville, FL 32202 This is a public meeting and all interested persons are invited to attend. Please mark your calendars accordingly. Pursuant to the American with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1-2 business days notification to process; last minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please contact Disabled Services Division at: V(904) 630- 4940, TTY-(904) 630-4933, or email your request to ADAAccommodationRequest@coj.net. For more information contact the Cultural Council: (904) 358-3600. cc: CCGJ Board of Directors/Staff Cultural Service Grant Recipient Leadership City Council Liaison Media Posted Notice Board – 1st Floor City Hall Posted Notice Board – CCGJ Offices CityC@coj.net

Join the Jacksonville Gem and Mineral Society for the 33rd Annual Gem and Mineral Show and Sale!