Coastal Companion » Florida

Concourse d’Elegance Amelia Island, Fl 2010

Susanne — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:21:00 +0000

The world’s finest vintage motor cars will again visit Amelia Island, on March 12 – 14, 2010, for the highly anticipated annual event, The 15th Annual Amelia Island Concourse d’Elegance.

The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is a vintage auto event featuring over 250 rare classics from seldom-seen private collections nationwide. The show takes place at The Golf Club of Amelia Island at Summer Beach adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

The event is often referred to as the ‘Pebble Beach of the East Coast’, attracting collectors and car enthusiasts from all over the world to the Northeast coast of Florida.

The event will honor the 40th anniversary of Porsche’s inaugural victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Le Mans and showcase a number of influential 917s. This model is by many considered to be one of the most significant racecars of our time. This year’s Concours will also honor Sir Stirling Moss, OBE and the 50th Anniversary of Moss’ victory in the last Cuban Grand Prix.

Gate River Run in Jacksonville 2010

Susanne — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:42:01 +0000

The Gate River Run in Jacksonville, Florida, is the largest 15K in the U.S. and this year it will once again served as the official USA 15K Championship.
The 33rd Annual Gate River Run on March 13, 2010, is set to be the biggest and best event ever.

In 2009, more than 18,000 runners and walkers participated in one of the three featured events. The 15K is of course the main event with over 14,000 participants. Other events include the Florida Times-Union 5K for Charity and the adidas Junior River Run. These events had over 2,000 participants in 2009.

The course starts at the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, runs through downtown Jacksonville. The runners will cross the St. Johns River over the Main Street Bridge, then run through historic San Marco, down Atlantic Blvd to the St. Nicolas area. The runners will then cross the river again, for the second time. This time across the Hart Bridge, and then continue on Duval Street back at the stadium.
Click here for the course map

To make this into a great spectator event, there are live bands along the route performing at ten different locations. Thousands of spectators line the course every year. The Gate River Run is more than a race – it’s an annual celebration in Jacksonville.

More information www.gate-riverrun.com

St Augustine Lions Seafood Festival 2010

Susanne — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 21:09:37 +0000

Spring is the time for festivals on the coast. The air is cool and fresh, and it’s a great time to be outdoors. In St Augustine it’s time for the annual St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival. Here you can of course get great seafood nearly any way you want it, but you can also enjoy live music from bluegrass, to folk and country music.

There will also be more than 100 arts and crafts exhibitors at the event. This is a fun event for the whole family. You can even win groceries, gifts and prizes. The festival is held at Francis Field at 25 W. Castillo Drive next to the Visitors Center. Festival hours are 3-9 p.m. on Friday, March 12th, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is only $2 for adults. Net proceeds go to Lions Club charities.

Visit www.lionsfestival.com for more information.

First Friday Art Walk March 2010 – St Augustine, Fl

Susanne — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 22:26:14 +0000

The First Friday Art walk is one of St. Augustine’s most popular events. The art walk for March 2010 is scheduled for Friday March 5, 2010, from 5 – 9 p.m., rain or shine!

Start your artwalk at any of the participating AGOSA galleries and pick up a free map – or click here to download the map!

As usual there is a FREE Artwalk Train and a FREE Artwalk Trolley. Just hop on board starting at 6pm on King Street. The train and the trolley each make a loop around town to the galleries about every 15 minutes.

Enjoy exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries around town.

For more information about the event, please call 904.829.0065 or visit www.staugustinegalleries.com.

The Sack of St Augustine 2010

Susanne — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 09:39:30 +0000

This is a great opportunity to relive history in St Augustine when the Historic Florida Militia re-enacts the Sack of St. Augustine, March 6th, 2010. The sack happened back in the year of 1668. Captain Robert Searle and his privateers left Jamaica and set course for St Augustine to loot the silver ingots held in the royal coffers at St. Augustine.

At the encampment at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park on Magnolia Drive, visitors can relive history. Take an up-close look at authentic 17th century arms, equipment and food at the encampment.
(The camp is set up Friday thru Sunday)

Then, on Saturday March 6, the buccaneers will gather and proceed to the Plaza de la Constitucion in downtown historic district of St Augustine. At 5 p.m. they will attack Spanish soldiers and St. Augustine citizens. Townspeople and soldiers will flee up St. George Street to the Redoubt at Orange and Cordova Streets in the Historic St Augustine.

For more information, please call 904.534.6168 or visit the website

Riverside Arts Market Re-Opens for Spring 2010

Susanne — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:36:51 +0000

Winter has definitely left the coast – and a sign of spring is the re-opening of the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) on Saturday March 6, 2010. The Riverside Arts Market is located next to the St Johns River and here you’ll find local arts and crafts, produce, flowers, and you can watch entertainment on stage as well. It’s a great event for the whole family.

To celebrate the re-opening, there will be a big parade. (Click here to download the pdf document)

Here is a video we did when we visited the Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville last year

First Wednesday Art Walk in Jacksonville March 3, 2010

Joe Talentino — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 20:32:12 +0000

Maybe winter has finally left Florida, about time I say. I checked the weather report today and it says that the weather for Wednesday is partly cloudy but with a high temperature of 55 F, so we should be OK for the art walk.

The theme for March 3, 2010: Rock ‘n’ Roll, so you don’t want to miss this one.

A few notes for this month’s event:

There’s a new venue for this art walk, the RiverFit Gym at The Landing, where you can meet t artist, Rejel of REJCEL.co.

Rock ‘n’ Roll to help Haiti with the best bands in Jacksonville and a silent auction benefit by local artists will take place at Suite 106 Gallery.

There’s an Elvis tributes by five-year-old (?!) Gabriel Jarrett, and Elvis tribute artist, Randy Elvis Walker at Visit Jacksonville. If you enjoy fashion, you’ll have the opportunity to watch a live runway show by “Princess of the Prom” at Cafe 331 & The Sinclair

At the Florida Theater you can view the 2010 ADDY award-winning work from local advertising agencies and participate in the 2010 AAF JAX Media Auction at 6 p.m.

To watch our video, and to download an map for The First Wednesday Art Walk in Jacksonville, Florida – click here

Scottish Games & Festival 2010 Jacksonville, Florida

Susanne — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:59:19 +0000

This popular festival promises to bring a “wee bit o’ Scotland” to the coast, with bagpipes, music, dancing and more.

The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival include Kilted Golf Tournaments, Pub Crawls, Kirkin‘ o‘ the Tartans, Whiskey Tasting, Parades of Tartans & Ceilidh (Scottish Musical Evenings).

There’s also live entertainment with a variety of groups such as Need Fire, Mother Grove, Highland Reign and Ron Davis. The Navy Band Southeast is also scheduled to perform. Check the website for more information.

The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival 2008 will be held Saturday, February 27, 2010. Gates open at 9:00 a.m. The location for these Games is Clay County Fair Grounds on State Road 16, 2497 SR16 W Green Cove Springs. Tickets prices are $10 per person in advance or $12 at the gate.

Call 904.725.5744 for more information or visit the Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival website.

The World Sword Swallowers Day

Susanne — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:26:13 +0000

I don’t know how they do it. Really. What possesses a person to even try to swallow a sword? How does it work, or is it all just made up? When I was a kid, a boy next door had one of these fake, plastic swords that collapse when you pushed a button. You could make it look real, without any trouble. I was wondering if that’s what they do, the real sword swallowers.

What made me start thinking about the whole thing was a press release that showed up in my inbox the other day. It’s a mad, mad world – at least at Odditoriums around the world when Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is “crossing swords” with the Sword Swallowers Association for a special celebration of the Fourth Annual World Sword Swallower’s Day. Nowadays everyone seems to have a “day”, so why should sword swallowers be any different. Go “Fourth and Swallow” I say.

A Bitter Pill To Swallow

Back to the issue at hand, is it real or is it all a fake? To find the answer, I went and did some research online. The first place I visited was of course the www.sword swallow.com – a website with a lot of general information about…should we say, the sport or maybe the art form?

Before you click on the link below, I must warn you. I found these xrays a bit difficult to stomach, but the images proved it to me. There’s no magic or funny business going on here. All you have to do is to repress reflexes in your throat so you can swallow the sword. Sounds like a logical explanation, but I’m wondering how on earth you practice to get to that point?

If you feel inclined to learn more about sword swallowing, and you want to check out the xrays for yourself – click here. Remember, I did warn you.
Watch xrays of sword swallowers here
I still wonder, who wakes up one day and says “I really would like to learn how to swallow a sword”? Apparently some do, because on February 27th more than 25 sword swallowers will be performing around the world to honor the special Sword Swallower’s day.

Sword Swallowing will take place at Odditoriums worldwide on February 27 at exactly 2:27:10 pm. Get it – 02/27/2010 – all this is in celebration of the Fourth Annual World Sword Swallowers Day at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Swords to be Swallowed in St Augustine Too!

Sword swallower Ted Campbell will perform at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! St. Augustine Odditorium on Saturday, February 27th at 2:27 pm local time – all part of World Sword Swallowers Day.
Come watch Campbell show off his amazing sword swallowing skills for free. Sword swallowing shows begin around 1:30 pm local time, with the grand finale set for 2:27 pm.

The Odditorium is located at 19 San Marco Ave., 904-824-1606.

Nerves of Steel
It is said that more than 100 feet of solid steel is set to go down the hatch – hopefully without a scratch! Just the thought of it makes me nervous.

It all started a long, long time ago. Actually the art of sword swallowing began more than 4,000 years ago in India. According to the information we received the practitioner “uses mind-over-matter techniques to control the body and repress natural reflexes to insert solid steel blades from 15 to 25 inches down the esophagus and into the stomach”. Sword swallowers used to be common in traveling circuses, but now there are less than a few dozen full-time professional sword swallowers around the world.

World Sword Swallowers Day was founded by the Sword Swallowers Association International (SSAI) and is co-sponsored by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! locations around the world.

On February 27, SSAI sword swallowers will be performing at more than a dozen Believe It or Not! Odditoriums, including: New York City; Orlando and St. Augustine in Florida; Hollywood, Calif.; Niagara Falls, Can.; Ocean City, Md.; Atlantic City, N.J.; Gatlinburg, Tenn.; Branson, Mo.; Grand Prairie, Texas; Surfers Paradise, Australia; and Guadalajara, Mexico.

Highlights at Believe It or Not! locations during the day will include:

· Red Stewart will attempt to swallow a world record 52 swords at one time in Atlantic City.
· Dai Andrews will attempt to swallow a very dangerous 120-degree curved Sword at Ocean City.
· Dan Meyer will swallow hedge clippers and a giant straight razor in Grand Prairie, Texas.
· Erik Kloeker, the youngest professional sword swallower in the world will perform in Gatlinburg.
· Travis Fessler will swallow a sword with his mouth full of live cockroaches in Gatlinburg.
· George The Giant, the world’s tallest sword swallower, will attempt to swallow a giant 33-inch long sword in Hollywood.
· A bevy of swallowers, led by legendary Todd Robbins, will perform at New York City’s Ripley’s.
· Mike Harrison will swallow a bayonet, rammed down his throat by a rifle, in Orlando.

For more information, visit www.ripleys.com

World Class Service at Jacksonville Airport

Joe Talentino — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:39:08 +0000

We always loved flying from Jacksonville, it’s quick and easy to get in and out at the airport.
So we were not surprised when we read this press release about the customer service at Jacksonville Airport, Florida.

Jacksonville International Airport’s Customer Service
Recognized as Among the Best in the Industry

Two New Surveys Show JAX Providing World-class Service

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) has earned top rankings for providing some of the aviation industry’s best customer service and overall passenger satisfaction in 2009, according to two recently released surveys.

In a J.D. Power & Associates study that measures overall airport satisfaction, JAX ranked No. 4 among all U.S. airports with fewer than 10 million annual passengers. Six factors – assessed through 27 specific attributes – are examined as part of the survey to determine overall customer satisfaction. They include: airport accessibility, baggage claim, check-in/baggage check process, terminal facilities, security check, and food and retail services.
In addition, JAX was ranked the 4th best airport in North America in a survey of participating airports by Airports Council International (ACI). The ACI Airport Services Quality (ASQ) passenger survey, a leading industry benchmarking tool, is used by many airports as one of the key performance indicators of an airport’s service.

In the same ACI survey, JAX ranked No. 5 in the world among airports with five to 15 million annual passengers.

“Congratulations to the entire JAX team, including Jacksonville Aviation Authority staff, the Transportation Security Administration, airlines and airport vendors,” said JAA Chair Deborah Pass-Durham. “2009 continued to be a tough year for airports, and for JAX to maintain such high levels of customer service is truly a source of pride for this region.”

MS Mud Run Jacksonville 2010

Susanne — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 21:25:32 +0000

National Multiple Sclerosis Society—North Florida Chapter Holds Second Annual “MS Mud Run Jacksonville”

The MS Mud Run Jacksonville is a 10K, military-style obstacle course race, with most of the obstacles surrounded by (or consisting entirely of) mud. Individuals, teams of two and teams of five will compete for prizes and the satisfaction of a doing a dirty job very well.

The North Florida Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS-NFL) will hold its annual MS Mud Run Jacksonville on March 20, 2010. This is the second time around for the exiting race. It’s one of its most successful fundraising activities in 2009, according to Jennifer Lee, President of NMSS-NFL. The inaugural Mud Run in 2009 attracted over 900 participants and raised more than $120,000.

The MS Mud Run Jacksonville will take place at Cecil Commerce Center, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Food and beverage vendors will be available and entertainment is planned throughout the day to provide a festival atmosphere for the event.

“We were optimistic when we launched this event last year that Jacksonville would show up and support us, and the results far exceeded our expectations,” said Lee. “Registration for this year’s Mud Run has been strong, with almost 1500 people already registered to participate and we’re still a month out from the event. There are people from more than 13 states signed up, and just about every major employer in the North Florida area will be represented by a team. Some will be represented by multiple teams, such as the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the different branches of the military. We’re expecting a terrific event with excellent results. And it will provide a great entertainment opportunity to participants and spectators alike here in Northeast Florida.”

Mud Run For Kids Too

New this year is the Mud Run Fun Run for Kids event, which will be held at 2:00PM. Boys and girls ages 7-12 will run a three-quarter of a mile course featuring three to five obstacles, including the large Slip ‘n’ Slide. The registration fee for this event is $30 per child and a signed notarized waiver by a parent/guardian will be required. Teens 13-18 may run the full course if accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times; they will also be required to submit a signed, notarized waiver by a parent or guardian.

Complete information about the MS Jud Run Jacksonville is available at www.mudrunjax.com, where you may also register for the event. Registration fees are $45 per person and each participant agrees to raise a minimum of $100 for NMSS-NFL. Simple online fundraising tools are available to participants to help them make the fundraising easy. Registration closes at midnight on March 18th. One hundred percent of fundraising contributions are donated to the North Florida Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Volunteers will play a big role in the preparation and smooth running of the event. Volunteer opportunities are still available for the day of the event as well as Wed, Thurs, and Fri, March 17th, 18th and 19th for those who would like to be involved. For information about volunteering or the event in general, visit www.mudrunjax.com, send an email to Jessica.Eichhorn@fln.nmss.org or call (904) 332-6810.

Breast Cancer Marathon – Jacksonville, Florida

etalentino — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:58:19 +0000

The big marathon with takes place in Jacksonville, Florida every year in February. This is the third time for 26.2 with Donna The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer.

Race Weekend Schedule

Friday, February 19, 2010

Health & Fitness Expo

Hours 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Prime Osborn Convention Center
1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
On-site registration and packet pick-up are available during expo hours.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Health & Fitness Expo

Hours 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Prime Osborn Convention Center
1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
On-site registration and packet pick-up are available during expo hours.

26.2 with Donna Family Fun Run

Prime Osborn Convention Center
1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
Registration and check in begins at 7 a.m.
Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m.

26.2 with Donna National Galloway Pep Rally

Prime Osborn Convention Center
1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Join U.S. Olympian, Author, Inspirational Speaker and 26.2 with Donna Training Director Jeff Galloway as he offers tips for successful run and motivates the crowd to FINISH BREAST CANCER!

Pasta Party presented by Nektar Therapeutics

Prime Osborn Convention Center
1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tickets are $20 for adults, and kids under 12 eat free!
Tickets may be purchased at the door or at the Health & Fitness Expo on Friday and Saturday. Proceeds will benefit the Donna Foundation and help FINISH BREAST CANCER!

Sunday, February 21, 2010

26.2 with Donna National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer Marathon, Half Marathon and Marathon Relay

Start/Finish, Mayo Clinic Campus
Medical Support at the start/finish line will be provided by Mayo Clinic from 7 a.m. until the end of the race and race day events.

4:00 a.m. Runners Village Opens
- Staff will be on-site to assist runners
6:30 a.m. VIP/Sponsor Viewing Area Opens
- Located at the race start/finish line.
- Invitation Only
7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Marathon, Half-Marathon and Marathon Relay
- Post Race Celebration
- Food and Beverages
- Entertainment
- Family Reunite Area/Post Race Celebration Area

For more information and details, visit the website at www.breastcancermarathon.com

Amelia Island Film Festival Announces Awards Winners 2010

etalentino — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:27:02 +0000

The Amelia Island Film Festival is scheduled for February 25 – March 1, 2010. The festival has just announced this year’s awards winners. The Richard Widmark Lifetime Achievement Award goes to Jonathan Demme this year.

The festival will honor Jonathan Demme’s work by featuring the following films:

A Man from Plains (2007).
The documentary about President Jimmy Carter that will screened on Sunday, Feb 28 at 1pm at the Hampton Inn & Suites at 19 S. 2nd Street;

The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
This film was partial filmed in Fernandina Beach to be shown at the Hampton Inn & Suites at 3pm; and

The Agronomist (2003)
Demme’s last documentary on Haiti that will screened in partnership with the Salvation Army Relief Fund for
Haiti to be screened on Friday, Feb 26 at 11 am at the Fernandina
Beach City Hall at 204 Ash Street.

Here is the list of award winners for 2010:

Richard Widmark Lifetime Achievment Award

Equinox Documentaries of Florida to be awaded the
Don R. Davis Memorial Award for the Best Florida Film of 2009

Brett Carlson to be awarded the AIFF Best Comedy– Sid Sax Memorial Award

AIFF Inaugural Screenwriters Institute featuring Nadine Vaughan, Sharon Cobb, Dave D’Ardenne, Rick Traum & H. Thomas Hayden

Nadine Vaughan is a published Florida author of Native Son and film producer of The Touch featuring Nicole Travolta that will be screened at the Festival. Nadine is the newest AIFF Board Member.

Sharon Cobb is a Florida Screenwriter that lectures and contributes her expertise to State & National Film Industry communities.

Dave D’Ardenne is a professional videographer that works for
ABC News that lives in Northeast Florida.

Rick Traum is past Executive Producer of NBC’s Tonight Show &
Saturday Night Live, former CFO of Radio City Music Hall and is a Board Member of the AIFF.

H. Thomas Hayden is a film producer from Camden County, Georgia,
presently filming in Georgia and Fernandina Beach his story about the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

For more info please call the AIFF Hotline at:
904.355.1110 or visit: www.AmeliaIslandFilmFestival.org

Much Ado About Books in Jacksonville, 2010

Susanne — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:56:49 +0000

February is the month of book festivals in Florida for sure with Much Ado about Books in Jacksonville coming up right after the Amelia Island Book Festival.

Much Ado About Books follows on February 26-27, 2010 with most of the events taking place at the Main Library on Laura Street in downtown Jacksonville. The festival is hosted by The Jacksonville Public Library Foundation. This year’s festival include a writer’s workshop, breakfast with an author, panel discussions, Children’s Chapter and keynote luncheon.

“It is with great pride that we are hosting this year’s milestone event to benefit the Jacksonville Public Library,” said Maggie Hightower, executive director of the Jacksonville Public Library Foundation. “Much Ado About Books is the cornerstone of our fundraising efforts and a meaningful contribution to Jacksonville’s literary community.”

The festival kicks off on Friday, February 26 with a Writer’s Workshop, hosted by guest authors Steve and Elizabeth Berry. The workshop is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are $100 in advance and seating is limited.

On Saturday, Feb. 27, a private breakfast for 10 lucky guests will be hosted by a featured author. This event will take place at the Omni Jacksonville Hotel and tickets are $100 in advance.

Following the breakfast, the Book Festival itself, will open its doors at the Main Library. Highlights for 2010 include panel discussions with featured authors and a Children’s Chapter. Here you can meet children’s authors and experience hands-on activities. The Children’s Chapter will take place from 9 a.m. until noon.

The event will conclude with a keynote luncheon, sponsored by THE PLAYERS Championship and featuring women’s fiction author Mary Kay Andrews, who entertain the audience with stories from her most recent book, Fixer Upper. Tickets to the luncheon are $50 in advance and $60 at the door.

Other featured authors include Michael Craven, Michael Cavendish, Jacksonville natives Donna Deegan and Carla Harris, Kaylie Jones, William “Ron” Little, Tori Murden McClure, Katherine Hall Page, Andrew Gross, Michael Palmer, Chris Bohjalian, Carlla Cato and others.

To purchase tickets or get more information about the schedule, visit the event Web site, www.muchadoaboutbooks.com.

Amelia Island Book Festival 2010 Coming Up

Susanne — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:29:13 +0000

The Amelia Island will take place February 11 – 13 at various Island locations. Some of the festival activities include:

Classic Author Celebration on February 11
Writers’ Workshop – February 12
Readers’ day, including a featured authors luncheon and a children’s chapter.

Authors include Rick Bragg, Sonny Brewer, Janis Owens, Cassandra King, Jeff Shaara – just to mention a few. For more information about workshops, programs, schedule and tickets, please visit

www.ameliaislandbookfestival.com or call: 904-491-8176

First Wednesday Art Walk, Jacksonville, FL – February 2010

Susanne — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:09:52 +0000

Art Walk in February in downtown Jacksonville, Florida
Check out our First Wednesday Art Walk Jacksonville, Florida, page and watch our video and download this month’s map.

February 3, 2010: Ladies Night

February is the month of Valentine’s Day and the theme for this month’s art walk is “Ladies Night”, lots of special treats for ladies. You don’t want to miss out this time!

Hemming Plaza: Show off, impress and be memorable. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn some new dance moves with dancing and lessons by Salsa Caliente from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

The Adrian Pickett Gallery – New location at the Jacksonville Landing. Portraits in charcoal and more by Adrian Pickett. Special treat for ladies.

Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Museum – New location at the Jacksonville Landing – U.S. Navy ship models, photographs and former shipboard equipment on display.

MOCA Jacksonville – Check out the new exhibit: Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe.

Burrito Gallery – Features works by Overstreet Ducasse, Roosevelt Watson and Adrian Rhodes with a ladies night video installation by Biggie Tea.

Cafe 331 – Burlesque show, fire dancing, live body painting, the history of St. Valentine and more. Chocolate-covered strawberries while supplies last.

The Sinclair – Features haikus and web comics by Haiku Birdie. Chances to win Valentine’s-themed prizes.

11E – Circa Sixty Three showcases the ‘Frontier’ collection and hosts a raffle to win an exclusive jewelry package.

The Twisted Martini – The spot for THE OFFICIAL ART WALK AFTER PARTY! Buy one drink, hand over your Art Walk flyer and receive your second drink free.

Click here to visit First Wednesday Art Walk Jacksonville, Florida, watch the video and download the map for February 2010.

The Black Eyed Peas Tour comes to Jacksonville, Florida

etalentino — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:56:32 +0000

Three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist, The Black Eyed Peas announced today that Ludacris will be joining opening act LMFAO on their highly anticipated world tour. Described as the ultimate Black Eyed Peas party experience, it also marks the first time that the group – will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie – is united for a North American headline tour since their 2006 Monkey Business world tour.

The Black Eyed Peas, who are nominated for six Grammy Awards including Album Of The Year for THE E.N.D. and Record of The Year for “I Gotta Feeling”, will perform Sunday night, January 31 at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards live on CBS.

2009 was a monumental year for The Black Eyed Peas, starting with the March release of “Boom Boom Pow” – not only the group’s first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 but one of the top dozen or so longest-charting singles in Hot 100 history, 12 weeks at the top. They bumped themselves out of #1 with their second single, “I Gotta Feeling” (released in June), surpassing their own success with a 14-week stay at #1 (only the fourth group in Hot 100 history to replace itself at #1). Their 26 consecutive week run at #1 has now become a new all-time benchmark in Hot 100 history (for groups or solo artists).

Meanwhile, flush with three massive hit singles, The E.N.D. (released June 2, 2009) debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart with the highest first-week sales of The Black Eyed Peas’ career. The E.N.D. has sold over 5.2 million cds worldwide. The fourth single, “Imma Be” is climbing the charts at Top 40 radio and is top 5 on the iTunes chart.

Chris “Ludacris” Bridges is a celebrated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Ludacris has sold over 20 million albums worldwide with each release being certified platinum or multi-platinum by the RIAA. His upcoming album, Battle of The Sexes, is set to be released March 16, 2010. To date, he has won three Grammy Awards (including Best Rap Album for Release Therapy) and appeared in two Academy Award-winning films. In addition to his creative endeavors and business ventures, Ludacris serves as Chairman and CEO of The Ludacris Foundation, an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of “Principles of Success.”

The tour kicks off on February 4, 2010 at Philips arena in Atlanta, Georgia. On February 6 it’s Miami and then Jacksonville on February 9, 2010.

Feb. 4 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
6 Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
9 Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Veteran’s Memorial Arena

Art Show during 2010 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance

Susanne — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:50:26 +0000

The Automotive Fine Arts Society will host its 15th annual art show during the 2010 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on March 11-14, 2010, in Amelia Island, Fla. Mazda North America will once again sponsor the popular exhibit, which will showcase automotive subjects in a variety of mediums including oil, watercolors, acrylics, wood, gouache, pen and ink, clay and metal. The AFAS was established in 1983 and consists of the most celebrated automotive artists in the world.

Painting by Charlie Maher commemorating Stirling Moss and his victory at the Cuban Grand Prix 50 years ago.

“Each spring our members look forward to displaying at the Amelia Island Concours, which has become one of the true gems of automotive events worldwide,” said Ken Eberts, president of the AFAS. “Our artists, who are finishing their new pieces for the show, always seem to exhibit paintings that connect with the cars and people of Amelia Island. The event’s ability to celebrate both man and machine inspires us to do the same.”

Held at the magnificent Ritz-Carlton Hotel and The Golf Club of Amelia Island at Summer Beach, the Amelia Island Concours is among the most popular automotive events in the country. Celebrities, industry leaders, art collectors and automotive enthusiasts regularly attend the annual event and the AFAS exhibit.

Honoree of the Concours will be famed NASCAR champion, “The King” Richard Petty, while Mercedes-Benz will serve as the featured marque. The event will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of Porsche’s inaugural victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Le Mans, while showcasing several influential 917s. Sir Stirling Moss will also be on hand as the Concours celebrates the 50th Anniversary of his victory in the last Cuban Grand Prix. Several artists will display paintings and sculptures honoring these special guests.

“The AFAS always exhibits the best examples of art showcasing our honoree and historic racing moments,” noted Bill Warner, Amelia Island Concours Chairman. “The Amelia is about the celebration of our heroes and great moments in racing. The artists of the AFAS feel the same passion as the staff and volunteers of the Concours.”

Marilyn Monroe: Life as a legend exhibit – Jacksonville, Fl

Joe Talentino — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:29:48 +0000

Marilyn Monroe: Life as a Legend is a travelling exhibit hosted by MOCA – the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The exhibit highlights the life of the beloved actress Marilyn Monroe by featuring the works of over 50 artists including Andy Warhol, Richard Avedon, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Bert Stern.

In 1999 the American Film Institute ranked Marilyn Monroe as the sixth greatest female star of all time, so the title of the exhibit “Marilyn Monroe: Life as a Legend” is fitting. The exhibit begins on January 22, 2010 and continues through April 4, 2010.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) will host a traveling exhibition over the next several months, highlighting the life of Marilyn Monroe. This exhibit features the works of more than 50 artists including Andy Warhol, Richard Avedon, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Bert Stern.

Monroe began a career as a model, which led to a film contract in 1946. She has performed in many movies, but is perhaps most known for her roles in “The Asphalt Jungle”, “All About Eve”, “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”, “Some Like It Hot” and “The Seven Year Itch”.

A Chorus Line comes to Jacksonville, Florida

Susanne — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:41:11 +0000

Can you dance? If you do, auditioning for a part might be something you’re used to, but for most of us, this is unfamiliar territory. To perform on stage and to become a star is a dream for many dancers. An audition is a chance of a lifetime, all your training, hard work, sweat and tears, might finally pay off when you get a chance to perform in the spotlight. This is your chance to dance – and to shine. This is the focus of the Chorus Line.

Chorus Line is the winner of nine Tony Awards, including “Best Musical”, and Chorus Line also received a Pulitzer Prize for dramal. It is the longest-running American Broadway musical ever. And now a Chorus Line returns and comes to Jacksonville Jan 19 – 23, 2010 at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, Jacksonville.

Click here for more information

American Beach on Amelia Island, Florida, celebrates 75

etalentino — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 20:00:25 +0000

On January 31, 2010, American Beach, located on northeast Florida’s Amelia Island, will celebrate its 75th anniversary. Located on the southern end of the island, the 200-acre American Beach was once a glorious oceanfront haven for African Americans during the Jim Crow-era of segregation. Like so much of the island’s 13 miles of shoreline, American Beach exemplifies Amelia’s unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty and intriguing history.

The founders of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company purchased American Beach over a span of 11 years, making the first of three purchases on Jan. 31, 1935. A.L. Lewis, one of the company founders, was one of the first black millionaires in Florida. In its heyday, the beach was lined with homes, restaurants and nightclubs that were frequented by notables such as Zora Neale Hurston, A. Philip Randolph, Billie Daniels, Joe Louis, Hank Aaron, Bob Hayes and others.

Today, American Beach is the first stop on the Florida Black Heritage Trail, with approximately 50 homes remaining from the 1940s and 1950s. Though its popularity faded with the advent of desegregation, residents like MaVynee Betsch, great-granddaughter of A.L. Lewis, worked to keep its history alive. Betsch made her career as an opera singer throughout Europe, and upon her return became known as “The Beach Lady” because of her unwavering devotion to environmental causes. Betsch died in September 2005, penniless, after devoting all of her time and money to her beliefs.

Visitors can now enjoy a 90-minute walking tour of American Beach, which includes a stop at Miss Martha’s Hideaway, a home built of hand-molded coquina blocks, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The tour also includes visits to the very first homes built on American Beach, and homes where actor Ossie Davis and jazz singer Billie Eckstein stayed on frequent visits to American Beach. Tours are $25 per person and can be arranged by calling (904) 261-0175.

The 2010 SEC Gymnastics Championship – Jacksonville, Fl

Joe Talentino — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:52:41 +0000

The Southeastern Conference has awarded the 2010 SEC Gymnastics Championship to Jacksonville, Fla., SEC Commissioner Mike Slive announced today. The championship will be hosted by the Gator Bowl Association.

“We are excited about the opportunity to have our gymnastics championship at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena,” said Slive. “Gymnastics has been very popular in the SEC and having our championship in such a great SEC city gives us another location where we can showcase this exciting event.”

The SEC has won 14 national championships in the sport of gymnastics since 1987, including a current streak of five consecutive by the University of Georgia.

“The Gator Bowl Association is extremely proud to host the 2010 Southeastern Conference Gymnastics Championship featuring the top gymnastics teams in the nation,” said Gator Bowl Association President Rick Catlett. “The City of Jacksonville has a long history with gymnastics competition but the SEC Gymnastics Championship will take that to a whole new level.”

The SEC Gymnastics Championship was held at on-campus sites from 1981-2000. It was then moved to neutral sites and held in Birmingham, Ala. (2001-2003, ‘06), while also being held since in Duluth, Ga.(2004-05, ‘08), North Little Rock, Ark (2007) and Nashville, Tenn.(2009).

“It is great to host SEC athletics, once again, in Jacksonville,” Assistant General Manager Robin Timothy said. “On behalf of the entire SMG staff and the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, we look forward to serving the athletes and the fans during this competition.”

The 2010 SEC Gymnastics Championship will take place on Saturday, March 27. For ticket information, please visit www.SECsports.com.

From Monroe to Ocean, Architecture and Jazz. Explore in Jacksonville, Fl

Susanne — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:48:37 +0000

The Beaches Museum & History Center present the work of award-winning architect, William Morgan, Jan. 16 through Feb. 13, 2010. Maintaining that there is no such thing as primitive architecture but only primitive means, Morgan relates buildings and human activity to the ecological context, thus revealing the universality of phenomena while also advocating creative freedom. An Evening at the Museum with William Morgan will be held Feb. 11, 2010, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The Beaches Museum and History Center
413 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville Bch, FL 32250
(904) 241-5657

Jazz it Up

Beginning Jan. 20, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens will unveil a new must-see exhibit for jazz fans of all ages. Jazz ABZ: An A to Z Collection of Jazz Portraits by Paul Rogers highlights jazz greats through poetry, from A (Louis Armstrong) to Z (Dizzy Gillespie). Each portrait and poem is evocative of the particular musician’s sound, and each work of art alludes to song titles, artifacts, and other markers of the time, including artistic references to well-known artists who were particularly inspired by jazz music.

The Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens
829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204
904.356.6857

Life as a Legend: Marily Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is once again in the limelight at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville this season. The feature exhibition, Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe, will debut on Jan. 22 and run through April 4, 2010. Forever Blonde, a captivating one-woman live performance celebrating the life and glamour of Marilyn Monroe will take the stage Thursdays through Sundays Feb. 11 to March 7, 2010. On March 13, MOCA will host the Mad About Marilyn Soirée, a Hollywood-style party featuring diamond-laced cocktails, live music, dancing and late-night tours of the Marilyn exhibition.

MOCA Museum of Contemporary Art
333 North Laura Street,Jacksonville, FL, 32202 USA
(904) 366-6911

Virtual Ocean Trip
A fully immersive maze-based exhibit starts on January 30 at The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) in Jacksonville. A-Mazing Sea is a virtual trip into the ocean with surprises around every corner – from role play games and puzzles to problem-solving and deep-sea sleuthing.

A-Mazing Sea compels visitors to climb into sea turtle shells, crawl through a whale’s mouth and reach into an octopus cave while discovering simple solutions for challenges that face inhabitants of the deep blue and beyond.

MOSH Museum of Science and History
1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, Florida 32207
904-396-6674

Restaurant Week returns to Amelia Island, Florida

Susanne — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 17:05:30 +0000

With an irresistible mix of eclectic dining experiences, Northeast Florida’s Amelia Island is pleased to announce its second annual Restaurant Week. The new program which runs January 24 through 31, 2010, will offer area residents and visitors a fixed menu, including three courses and a beverage, for only $19 or $29. Additionally, diners may enter to win a “Year of Dining,” with 12, $50 gift certificates to be used once a month for an entire year.

“We had such an overwhelming, positive response from the 2009 Restaurant Week,” said Gil Langley, President & CEO of the Amelia Island Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This year, we have several additional participating restaurants, allowing guests the opportunity to experience even more of Amelia Island’s incredible dining options.”

For more details about restaurant week in Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island, please visit www.ameliaisland.com/yummy.

Sharks create major waves – St Augustine, Florida

etalentino — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:45:40 +0000

“SHARKS” Creates Major Waves at the World Golf Hall of Fame
IMAX® Theater Beginning on January 15, 2010

New IMAX Film Presented by Jean-Michel Cousteau; Opening Weekend to Feature Live Presentations by Gavin McKinney, “SHARKS” Director of Photography

The 2D World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX Theater, Jean-Michel Cousteau and 3D Entertainment, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, invite audiences to a stunning, immersive diving experience with SHARKS, premiering Friday, Jan. 15, 2010. Additionally, the film’s Director of Photography, Gavin McKinney, will be on-hand opening weekend to share his expertise and experience in bringing SHARKS to IMAX audiences. For film schedules, presentation times and ticket information, visit the IMAX Theater section on www.wgv.com.

An expert international team of ocean explorers that brought audiences “OCEAN WONDERLAND” have embarked on a unique round-the-globe expedition documenting the life of the ultimate predator in “SHARKS.” The World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX Theater brings “SHARKS” to life in grand fashion, offering a unique experience from each of its 300 stadium-style seats with high-definition images projected onto the huge, six-story tall screen and 12,000 watts of pure digital surround sound.
Swimming with Sharks
“I am very pleased that Jacksonville- and St. Augustine-area residents will now get the chance to share in this truly memorable encounter with the world’s great shark species, such as the Great White, Whale Shark and Hammerhead,” said Jean-Michel Cousteau, President of Ocean Futures Society. “Watching ‘SHARKS’ is like pulling on a diving suit and swimming weightlessly with sharks all around. If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s really like to dive with sharks, this film is certainly a must-see. You can witness them as they truly are in their natural habitat — not wicked man-eating creatures, as they are far too frequently depicted in modern feature films, but wild, fascinating and highly endangered animals that have been in existence since a million years before the dinosaurs.”

Principal photography on “SHARKS” required an extensive nine-month shoot totaling 500 dive hours. The film was shot on location in Guadalupe Island, Socorro Island, Revillagigedos and the Sea of Cortez (Mexico), Malpelo Island (Colombia), the Red Sea (Egypt), Sodwana Bay (South Africa), Inhambane (Mozambique), San Diego (USA) and Rangiroa Atoll (French Polynesia).

SHARKS is recommended for general audiences and is produced by 3D Entertainment and McKinney Underwater Productions Inc. Directed by Jean-Jacques Mantello, filmed by Gavin McKinney and executive produced by Francois Mantello. SHARKS features an original score composed by Christophe Jacquelin and performed by the Bulgarian Symphony Orchestra. “SHARKS” is distributed worldwide by 3D Entertainment in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (http://www.unep.org) and is endorsed and supported by Ocean Futures Society (http://www.oceanfutures.org), Reef Check (http://www.reefcheck.org) and PADI’s Project Aware (http://www.projectaware.org).

Official website: http://www.SharksFilm.com