Creative Heroes behind the ‘Save Our Parks’ Response
By Sheri L. Webber On December 4th, while many Floridians were focused on the holidays and all that comes with the season of giving, Senator Gayle Harrell filed Senate Bill 80, the State Park Preservation Act, to halt the present and future possibility of constructing golf courses, pickleball courts, ball fields, and more in Florida state parks. Harrell’s legislation, if enacted, would ensure prioritization of “conservation-based...
1000 Friends of Florida Wants to Befriend You
An advocacy organization that holds the government accountable while educating citizens about a better future for all Floridians. By Kayla Byrd Founded in 1986, 1000 Friends of Florida is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates Floridians on government planning for land management and conservation projects. By working at the legislative level and providing input on proposed bills, 1000 Friends of Florida keeps...
Audubon Florida A Century of Conservation & Community
By Laura Riggs Florida Scrub-Jay, Helen & Allen Cruikshank Sanctuary, Florida Audubon Florida, celebrating its 125th anniversary, is a cornerstone of the state’s conservation movement. From its roots in combating the plume trade at the turn of the 20th century to its current advocacy for imperiled species and habitats, the organization has consistently championed science-based solutions to Florida’s environmental challenges. This...
Photographic Memory Mark Krancer: A Life Worth Living
By Kate A. Hallock Mark Krancer smiles a lot. On a photo assignment, he’ll tell his clients that he’s living the dream, but that wasn’t always the case. Krancer knows how addiction can put you in a bad place. He also knows how a positive passion can save your life. From drugs to digital camera, Krancer turned his life around 10 years ago to eventually create a successful business and achieve world renown. Robin Patton...
Violins of Hope
By Lorrie DeFrank Seventy lovingly restored string instruments that symbolize resilience and unity following indescribable horror will be showcased in a series of events in Jacksonville. Violins of Hope: Building Bridges Through the Power of Music will feature instruments that were played by Jewish musicians before and during the Holocaust, each with its own story that will be shared to educate the community and inspire...
Gold Star Restaurants
Making Jacksonville a Foodie Destination Our annual Gold Star restaurant list spotlights new locally owned dining options and old favorites that offer exceptional quality and consistency. As we continue to explore the diverse dining options in our community, we are reminded of the incredible resilience and dedication of the restaurant industry. This year’s Gold Star list is a celebration of those who have remained...