‘Legacy on Ashley Street’ needs you

Are you thinking about an end-of-the-year place to make a 2021 tax free donation? Please take a moment to consider giving to the “Clara White Mission” in Jacksonville, Florida.

From the desk of Ju’Coby Pitman (CEO Clara White Mission/City Councilwoman):
“This November will mark 119 years of service to the community. To celebrate this milestone the Clara White Mission will kick-off the Inaugural “Preserving the Legacy on Ashley Street” to benefit our programs serving the homeless, veterans and low-income families. Starting now through December 31, our goal is to raise $150,000. All proceeds and contributions from this campaign will allow the Clara White Mission to continue changing lives through our holistic sustainable initiatives.

We invite you to make visible difference and commit to a Legacy Gift. In the upcoming year, support from the campaign will provide 160,000 daily meals, snacks, vocational training, and safe secure housing to the homeless. The Clara White Mission is much more than a soup kitchen, it is a community development center that positively impacts lives. Our motto Food for today. Skills for life, represents our continuing transformation as a one-stop safety-net facility.

A yearly or monthly commitment will enable the Mission to continue outreach efforts that provide a hand up, not a hand out to homeless, veterans, and low-income members of our community. Can we count on you too for a Legacy Gift?

Ways to Give: Mail in Form; Online, or give them a call (904) 354-4162 ext.#1105

Since the inception of the Clara White Mission vocational program, over 1000 students have graduated and 65% of those were placed in employment. In the last four years from 2017-2020, graduates of the CWM program earnings have ranged from $10.00-$18.00 per hour, impacting our community economy by more than $1.7M.

Clara White Mission is the only non-profit in the state of Florida that offers transitional and permanent housing with supportive services, combined with on-site vocational training licensed by the Florida Department of Education. This program is a one-stop facility, demonstrating proven best practices and a successful track record.

Our goal is to raise $150,000. All proceeds and contributions from this campaign will allow the Clara White Mission to continue changing lives through our holistic sustainable initiatives. Join us in our efforts to Preserve the Legacy of Ashley Street by sending a gift that will make an immediate impact.”

LOCATION: Clara White Mission
       Ju’Coby Pittman/CEO
      613 West Ashley St.
      Jacksonville, Florida 32202
      Office: (904) 354-4162

MOSH receives $100,000 gift

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) announced today that Stellar has committed $100,000 to the MOSH Genesis campaign. The contribution will be distributed in four annual $25,000 installments to begin this year.

Established in 1985, Stellar is a Jacksonville-based diversified contracting firm recognized as a global leader in architecture, engineering and construction services. With more than 800 employees, it is a company that celebrates innovation, entrepreneurship and collaboration.

“Our support of MOSH Genesis reflects our commitment to investing both in the next generation of innovators, as well as a new era of Downtown vitality,” said Mike Santarone, Chief Executive Officer of Stellar. “MOSH has been a vital part of our community for decades, and we’re proud to be a part of this new chapter of growth.”

In March of 2019, MOSH announced the launch of its capital campaign with the goal of raising $20 million in community support from individuals, businesses and corporations, foundations and other community stakeholders. Originally called MOSH 2.0, the campaign has been retitled MOSH Genesis to better encapsulate the Museum’s vision of bold transformation for the institution and its role in Downtown revitalization.

This commitment expands Stellar’s connection to the Museum, which started with Richard Lovelace, Senior Vice President, who served on the MOSH Board of Trustees from 2018 through 2021.

“Stellar is a company that has been an integral part of Jacksonville’s growth and development,” said Bruce Fafard, CEO of MOSH. “We are grateful for their generous support. This gift will provide sustained momentum in our goal of building a dynamic center of innovation and exploration in Downtown Jacksonville.”

‘MOSH’ gets donation from billionaire Shahid Khan

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) has announced that Shahid Khan, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and his family have committed an initial $5 million gift to the MOSH Genesis capital campaign — representing the largest private donation to the campaign to date.

Khan praised the Museum’s proposal to build a new museum on the Shipyards property shortly after it was publicly announced on October 15. In a previous statement, he said he was “all in” on the Museum’s plans, and that the new museum “would be a spectacular addition to Downtown Jacksonville.” This gift reinforces Khan’s efforts to bring new development to the region, complementing his vision for Lot J to create a thriving sports and entertainment district surrounding TIAA Bank Field.

“The best downtown districts in the United States include urban parkland and cultural destinations, and we can have that here in Jacksonville with the Museum of Science and History anchoring a new riverfront park,” said Khan. “I’m hoping my contribution to the capital campaign will spark additional commitment from throughout the region so we can get started on a new downtown. I am confident it will, because I know I’m not the only person in Jax who believes it’s time to finally meet and even exceed our potential.”

The Museum announced the launch of its capital campaign in March 2019, with the goal of raising $20 million in community support from individuals, businesses and corporations, foundations and other community stakeholders. Originally called MOSH 2.0, the campaign has since been retitled MOSH Genesis to reflect a new beginning for the Museum as it casts a bolder vision for the institution, as well as the City of Jacksonville.

“MOSH would like to express our sincere thanks to Shahid Khan and his family for committing to this remarkable investment in MOSH Genesis. This gift will not only propel the project forward, but serve as a wonderful example to others,” said Bruce Fafard, CEO of MOSH. “We appreciate the leadership role that Mr. Khan is taking to make Jacksonville a better place to live, work, and play.”

About MOSH: The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for youth, students, active and retired military and seniors. There is no admission fee for children two and under or Museum members. Learn more at themosh.org.

Museum funding is provided in part by the City of Jacksonville and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Inc.; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts; Historic Museums Grants-in-Aid Program assistance provided by the Bureau of Historical Museums, Division of Historical Resources, Florida Department of State, Secretary of State.

Broadway celebrates Veterans Day

Stage Aurora Theatrical Company will be presenting “Broadway Celebrates Veterans Day”, a virtual concert of Broadway performers celebrating our military veterans and those who have served - and are currently serving - in the Armed Forces. The concert began streaming on the Stage Aurora Theatrical Company's YouTube page Saturday, November 7 at 12 p.m. and will be available for viewing through Veteran's Day, Wednesday, November 11, 2020.

Attendance is free with a suggested donation of $25. Proceeds from the concert will benefit Northeast Florida Women Veterans of Jacksonville and Stage Aurora Theatrical Company. For more information, please visit www.stageaurora.org .

Broadway Celebrates Veteran's Day will feature many of your favorite Broadway performers, musicians, and crew singing and performing in this 'can't miss' virtual concert of heartfelt thanks and recognition to the hundreds of thousands who have served and continue to serve to keep this country safe. Hear favorite selections such as "The Impossible Dream," "Imagine," "America the Beautiful," "Boogie, Woogie, Bugle Boy," and much more.

The virtual concert will feature Tony nominee Robert Cuccioli (Broadway: Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, Jekyll & Hyde), Darius de Haas (Broadway: Shuffle Along, Or The Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921...), Jarrod Emick (Broadway: Ring of Fire, Damn Yankees), Darryl Reuben Hall (Broadway: Godspell, Cinderella), Janet Hubert (Broadway: Cats, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air"), Tony award winner Cady Huffman (Broadway: The Will Rogers Folliies, The Producers), Renee Lawless (Broadway National: Wicked, "The Haves and The Have Nots"), N'Kenge (Broadway: Caroline or Change, Motown The Musical), Randy Redd (Broadway: Million Dollar Quartet, Parade), Cody Renard Richard (Broadway Stage Manager), Desmond Richardson (Broadway: Fosse, Chicago), Angela Robinson (Broadway: The Color Purple), "The Haves and The Have Nots"), Justin Matthew Sargent (Broadway: Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, Rock of Ages), Tony award winner Ben Vereen (Broadway:Pippin), Bethaney Wellings-Davies (West End: Cabaret, Phantom of the Opera), NaTasha Yvette Williams (Broadway: Waitress, The Color Purple), and Vanessa Williams (Broadway: Into the Woods, Kiss of the Spider Woman). Artists subject to change.

"As Founder of Stage Aurora Theatrical Company, Inc., I'm incredibly grateful for this special opportunity to give back to those who've completely given of themselves in the armed forces through bravery and courage," states Darryl Reuben Hall. "My goal is to continue to produce 'theatre that enlightens'. Through the universal language of music and song, we all can celebrate in this moment of sheer entertainment, enlightenment, and joy. This is a musical celebration of thanks."

The event is stage managed by Roumel Reaux and directed by Darryl Reuben Hall. Consultants on the virtual concert are Tim and Pamela Kashani (Apples and Oranges Arts), and Tegan Summer.

Click On This Link To View on Wednesday, Veterans Day, November 11. Attendance Is Free. Suggested donation: $25 to assist the Northeast Florida Women Veterans of Jacksonville and Stage Aurora Theatrical Company those in the theater.

Florida Theatre receives another Grant during pandemic

Delores Barr Weaver

The Florida Theatre is pleased to announce a $30,000 challenge gift from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. This gift will be added to the existing Florida Theatre Board of Directors match for the “Cross the Finish Line” Campaign, doubling donations through December 31.

After going without more than 90% of its typical income for over six months, on October 9, 2020, the Theatre launched the “Cross the Finish Line” Campaign to raise the funds needed to reopen this December.

With this generous donation from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund, the “Cross the Finish Line” campaign now aims to raise $180,000 by December 31. This money will help the Theatre bridge the financial gap, and make it over the finish line for the December reopening.

“Mrs. Weaver has shown so much leadership in Jacksonville, encouraging the rest of us to support the many civic organizations that work to make Jacksonville a better place to live and work, and the Florida Theatre is extremely fortunate to be included in that effort during this time,” said Florida Theatre President Numa Saisselin. “From my perspective, it’s super energizing to have someone come along and tell you that your goal is not high enough, and then give you a boost towards the next level of achievement. It’s the philanthropic equivalent of Teddy Roosevelt leading the way up San Juan Hill.”

The historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre is sponsored by Community First Credit Union. For a complete list of upcoming events or to buy tickets visit the Theatre's official website floridatheatre.com.

About the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund: The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida was created by Delores Barr Weaver in 2015 as the natural evolution of the Delores Barr Weaver Fund, which has awarded more than $86 million in grants since she created it in 2012. She also provides separate, annual support to 20 local, non-profit organizations for their annual fundraising events through the Delores Barr Weaver Forever Event Fund. Like the Delores Barr Weaver Fund, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund’s purpose is to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that do work she has supported over many years and to encourage others to do so as well. Mrs. Weaver has an extraordinary legacy of philanthropy, and she has provided transformative support to dozens of nonprofit organizations that uplift, enlighten and advance our community.

About the Florida Theatre: From ballet and opera to contemporary pop, jazz, rock, country and blues the nonprofit Florida Theatre offers 200 cultural and entertainment events annually for every taste and age. More than just an entertainment center, Florida Theatre is also home to graduations, awards ceremonies, lectures, business meetings and charity events that support the community's schools, churches, hospitals and civic groups. As an anchor to downtown development along the beautiful St. Johns River, Florida Theatre draws 250,000 people to Jacksonville's center each year. The magnificently restored Florida Theatre is recognized as one of the finest concert venues in the Southeast. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Florida Theatre holds special memories for four generations. From the Vaudeville acts and silent films of its earliest days to today's blend of performances of all kinds, the Florida Theatre has served as Jacksonville's premier entertainment center since 1927.

Donation to the Cummer Museum offer support

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens announces that long-time supporters J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver have made a $3 million gift through the Weaver Family Foundation Fund to endow the Chief Curator position.

The newly endowed position will be known as the Cummer Museum’s J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Chief Curator.  The position ensures that the Museum will attract top talent into this role in perpetuity, but it also acknowledges the major contributions that Holly Keris, Chief Curator, has made to the institution over her 17 years with the Museum.

“The core of an art museum is its artistic program — it is this content that engages diverse audiences, that provides the stimulus for educational programming, and, at our institution, that connects gardens and galleries,” said Pam D. Paul, chair of the Cummer Museum’s Board of Trustees.  “The work of developing this program belongs first and foremost to the Chief Curator, and Delores and Wayne’s thoughtful gift guarantees quality in this role into the future — ensuring both the Cummer Museum’s sustainability, as well as its continued relevance to Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.”

The Chief Curator is a member of the Museum’s executive team, shaping the institution’s vision and mission, while leading its artistic program.  The position oversees efforts to build, present and conserve the Museum’s permanent collection, and also directs the presentation of exhibitions.

“Through our longstanding association with Holly Keris and the Cummer, we have come to appreciate the tremendous value and profound influence of a Chief Curator,” noted Delores Barr Weaver.  “We are particularly grateful for Holly’s extended efforts as both Chief Curator and interim director for nearly two years, during a challenging period when the Gardens were ravaged by Hurricane Irma and the Women’s Club building had to be razed because of termites.”  She continued, “Our gift is meant to ensure that the Cummer’s Chief Curator continues to be a leading voice in our cultural community for generations to come.”

The Weavers’ decades of generosity to and leadership at the Cummer Museum began in 1997 and has included important initiatives such as Weaver First Saturday Free for All – free admission for all visitors the first Saturday of each month.  Their Weaver Family Foundation Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida also has provided long-term support for Art Connections, the Museum’s interactive learning center for children and adolescents, as well as Cummer in the Classroom, a comprehensive art education program for Title 1 elementary school children.

Because of their inspiring generosity to provide access and meaningful connections with art and nature, the Weavers encourage and advance Ninah Cummer’s vision for the Museum as a 'center of beauty and culture for all of Jacksonville.’

About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: For almost 60 years, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens has been committed to engaging and inspiring through the arts, gardens, and education.  A permanent collection of more than 5,000 objects and historic gardens on a riverfront campus offers nearly 140,000 annual visitors a truly unique experience on the First Coast. Nationally recognized education programs serve adults and children of all abilities.  For further information, including hours, visit their website.

Donation to the Cummer Museum to support a position

Photo: Bob Self

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is excited to announce that long-time supporters J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver have made a $3 million gift through the Weaver Family Foundation Fund to endow the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Chief Curator position, currently held by Holly Keris.

The Weavers’ decades of generosity to and leadership at the Cummer Museum began in 1997 and has included important initiatives such as Weaver First Saturday Free for All – free admission for all visitors the first Saturday of each month.  Their Weaver Family Foundation Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida also has provided long-term support for Art Connections, the Museum’s interactive learning center for children and adolescents, as well as Cummer in the Classroom, a comprehensive art education program for Title 1 elementary school children.

“The core of an art museum is its artistic program — it is this content that engages diverse audiences, that provides the stimulus for educational programming, and, at our institution, that connects gardens and galleries,” said Pam D. Paul, chair of the Cummer Museum’s Board of Trustees.  “The work of developing this program belongs first and foremost to the Chief Curator, and Delores and Wayne’s thoughtful gift guarantees quality in this role into the future — ensuring both the Cummer Museum’s sustainability, as well as its continued relevance to Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.”

Designed to highlight and celebrate the Cummer Museum's extensive holdings of Eugène Louis Charvot, the largest collection of Charvot works in the world, this exhibition will be a reflection of this accomplished artist and prominent member of French society. Through an in-depth review of his career as an artist, the exhibition will focus on Charvot’s breadth of processes, productivity and inspiration in painting, etching, and drawing. The exhibition will coincide with a new catalogue about the artist, published by Holly Keris and the Cummer Museum and D. Giles Ltd. London with guest curator, Susan Gallo.

Delores Barr Weaver noted, “Our gift is meant to ensure that the Cummer’s Chief Curator continues to be a leading voice in our cultural community for generations to come.”  Because of their inspiring generosity to provide access and meaningful connections with art and nature, the Weavers encourage and advance Ninah Cummer’s vision for the Museum as a 'center of beauty and culture for all of Jacksonville.’

Holly Keris, J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Chief Curator, have been with the Cummer Museum for 17 years and has been instrumental in the Museum's impactful exhibition season.  They hope to see you at the Museum soon to experience this season's exhibitions Striking Power: Iconoclasm in Ancient Egypt and Eugène Louis Charvot opening February 11, 2020.

About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: For almost 60 years, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens has been committed to engaging and inspiring through the arts, gardens, and education. A permanent collection of more than 5,000 objects and historic gardens on a riverfront campus offers nearly 140,000 annual visitors a truly unique experience on the First Coast. Nationally recognized education programs serve adults and children of all abilities. For further information, including hours, visit their website.

Winter Jam 2020 coming to JAX with tickets only $15

Christian music’s premiere multi-artist annual outing, the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, steps into a new decade with a fan-favorite headliner, GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter Crowder. With such recent hits as “Red Letters” and “All My Hope,” the genre-spanning artist—who has sold more than 3 million units and appears regularly on the Grand Ole Opry—leads a star-studded 2020 lineup featuring some of the biggest names in Christian music.

Winter Jam, which is hallmarked annually by its musical diversity, central focus on the Gospel, and a "no ticket required"/$15 donation at the door, will hit a total of 42 cities around the country next year.  Highlighted by a time of worship each evening, international chart-toppers Hillsong Young & Free are set to make their Winter Jam debut in 25 cities, while renowned worshippers Passion, as well as acclaimed pastor/author/speaker and Passion Movement founder Louie Giglio, will be featured on all other tour stops.

“It’s crazy to think this is my first time speaking on Winter Jam, one of the most influential tours of the last few decades,” says Giglio. “I’m pumped, and really excited to share the nights with our fam—Crowder and Passion!" 

“We can’t wait to get out on Winter Jam 2020,” echoes Crowder. “There is nothing like it and 2020 is going to be just insane! Too much goodness in one place.” 

Winter Jam 2020’s lineup also showcases Reach Records hip-hop recording artist and producer Andy Mineo; Dove Award-winning pop hitmakers Building 429; GRAMMY®-nominated rockers RED; Dove Award-nominated singer/songwriter Austin French; GRAMMY®-nominated Winter Jam creators and tour hosts, NewSong; and Dare2Share speakers Greg Stier and Zane Black. Additionally, the PreJam opening set will feature 2019 New Artist of the Year Dove Award-nominee Riley Clemmons and will introduce singer/songwriter and evangelist Billy Ballenger, as well as emerging rap/hip-hop recording artist Zauntee. 

Kicking off January 10 at Jacksonville, Florida’s VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, Winter Jam 2020 is slated to hit Chicago’s Sears Centre Arena; State Farm Arena in Atlanta; Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena; Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena; Banker’s Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis; Oklahoma City’s Chesapeake Energy Arena; Kansas City, Missouri’s Sprint Center; and PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, among numerous other leading venues around the country, before concluding March 29 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland.

"I’ve never been more excited about Winter Jam than I am for 2020,” says NewSong founding member and Winter Jam creator Eddie Carswell. “The lineup is amazing and the desire to see Jesus change lives remains our top priority. Bring your friends, bring your youth group— just don't miss it."

In addition to the tour’s popular Jam Nation membership, which allows attendees advance venue entry among other special perks, Winter Jam is introducing a limited number of Jam Nation Ultimate Access passes for 2020. This exclusive pass includes a backstage meet & greet with Crowder, premium reserved Jam Zone seating, and free Jam Nation entry to any other 2020 Winter Jam date.

The Winter Jam 2020 Tour Spectacular is produced by Premier Productions and sponsored in part by Holt International, Liberty University, "A Week Away: The Musical" and Destiny Rescue.

Created and hosted by one of Christian music’s most influential bands, NewSong, the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular exploded from a single show in 1995 to become the genre's benchmark tour. Throughout two decades, the tour has regularly ranked among Pollstar's top first quarter outings. Showcasing the best and brightest in Christian music, Winter Jam provides a powerful platform for the Gospel in major arenas nationwide.

For further information, visit jamtour.com or turningpointpr.com. Follow Winter Jam on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Coke Florida Donates Laptops To 'I’m A Star' Students

On February 14, 2019 Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (“Coke Florida”) donated 13 laptops to I’m A Star Foundation in honor of Black History Month.  The ceremony took place at Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, 1411 Huron Street at 5 p.m.  A group of nearly 20 I'm A Star Students received the laptops and took a tour of the facility.

Coke Florida’s Chairman and CEO Troy Taylor says they chose I’m A Star Foundation among statewide community partners that “are developing the next generation of great leaders who will ultimately make a difference in the world.”

Executive Director of I'm A Star Foundation Betty Seabrook Burney says the students will use the laptops for research, including for an upcoming project with John Hopkins University.  She says, "We'll be working with the Southeastern United States, putting on a childhood obesity summit."  Up until now, students have used their cell phones to gather information supporting their initiatives to end childhood obesity (Let's Move Jacksonville) and student homelessness (Jacksonville HELPS).

Coke Florida is a family-owned independent Coca-Cola bottler.  The company is also one of America’s largest black-owned businesses.  Coke Florida was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Tampa, Florida.

Coke Florida is also pleased to partner with Family Dollar, who shares a similar commitment to community through their work with local Boys & Girls Clubs.  Throughout the month of February, Family Dollar customers can help make a difference by purchasing any 6pk 500ml or 6pk 7.5oz mini-cans of Coca-Cola® products.  Purchases will help local stores qualify to receive new laptops to donate to local Boys & Girls Clubs organizations in their direct communities.

About I’m A Star Foundation: I’m A Star Foundation is a volunteer program that transforms middle and high school students into the next generation of servant leaders.  An acronym for “Smart, Talented And Resilient” students, the Foundation draws kids ages 13-18 from schools across Duval County.  Students meet on weekends to creatively co-work on solutions to problems affecting their peers.  Since its establishment in 2010, the organization has maintained a 100% graduation rate.  Founder and Executive Director Betty Seabrook Burney is a former Duval Co. School Board Chairwoman.  I’m A Star Foundation students have been featured in various press outlets, including Florida Times-Union, Around Town With Ms. “V”, ABC -7 Chicago and The Huffington Post. For more information, please visit I’m A Star Foundation.

FSCJ Artist Series helps hurricane funds

The FSCJ Artist Series and The Sound of Music, team up to support the “First Coast Hurricane Relief Fund” from September 25‐ November 5, 2017.

The Sound of Music and the FSCJ Artist Series are teaming up to make a difference on the First Coast after Hurricane Irma.  Beginning September 25, a $5 donation will be made to Community Foundation’s First Coast Hurricane Relief Fund for each ticket sold to The Sound of Music through November 5.

Join them for the beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family at the Times‐Union Center October 31‐November 5, while giving back to our community.

Sound of Music Tickets

LOCATION: Times Union Center Performing Arts
      Moran Theater
      300 West Water St.
      Jacksonville, FL 32202