Welcome to The Jacksonville Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• William Byron wins the Daytona 500

• Upcoming Jacksonville IceMen home games

• A deep-dive into the life of Merian C.Cooper.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

In Jacksonville, which historic neighborhood is known for its early 20th-century architecture and arts market?

A) San Marco

B) Riverside

C) Avondale

D) Springfield

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Jacksonville beach known for its fishing pier and surf culture is C) Jacksonville Beach.

News

💼 Business

The City of Jacksonville announced a partnership with local businesses to revitalize the downtown area. (link)

Primark plans to open a new distribution center in Jacksonville, promising over 200 jobs. (link)

🏒 Sports

William Byron wins the Daytona 500, marking a significant victory in the "Great American Race. (link)

Bishop Kenny's girls' basketball team eliminates Ribault from state championship contention, showcasing local talent. (link)

University Christian's basketball team dominates the St. Joseph Flashes, advancing further in the competition. (link)

Episcopal boys' basketball team, retaining nearly all starters from last season, embarks on a mission to leave a significant mark in the state. (link)

Jacksonville Jaguars announce updates to coaching staff for the 2024 season. (link)

Local high school basketball teams compete in regional playoffs, aiming for state championships. (link)

The city hosts a youth soccer tournament, drawing teams from across the Southeastern United States. (link)

🏦 Finance

Capital One announced the acquisition of Discover for $35 billion, a major finance industry movement with potential implications for Jacksonville's finance sector. (link)

Brightway Insurance hires new CEO. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏒 Jacksonville IceMen vs. Orlando Solar Bears
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | 7:00 PM (More info)

🏒 Jacksonville IceMen vs. Orlando Solar Bears
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 3:00 PM | (More info)

🏀 Savannah Bananas
121 Financial Ballpark, Jacksonville
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 1:00 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Marbin
Cafe 11, St. Augustine
Monday, Mar. 4th | 8:00 PM (More info)

🎤 Donnell Rawlings
The Comedy Zone - Jacksonville, Jacksonville
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | 9:30 PM | (More info)

🎸 Brad Williams
Florida Theatre Jacksonville, Jacksonville
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🤼 WWE: NXT Live
Jacksonville Armory, Jacksonville
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | 7:30 PM (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Jacksonville within a giant biodome” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Jacksonville Historical Events

1822 - The city is platted and named Jacksonville after Andrew Jackson, the military governor of Florida.

In 1822, the city of Jacksonville was officially platted and given its name in honor of Andrew Jackson, the military governor of Florida at the time. This significant event marked the beginning of the city's formal establishment and set the stage for its future growth and development. Named after a prominent historical figure, Jacksonville's identity became intertwined with the legacy of Andrew Jackson, adding a layer of historical significance to the city's founding.

The decision to name the city after Andrew Jackson, a key figure in American history, reflects the era in which Jacksonville was established and the influence of political and military leaders of the time. This naming choice also serves as a reminder of the city's deep historical roots and its connection to the broader narrative of American expansion and governance in the early 19th century. As a result, the name "Jacksonville" carries with it a sense of heritage and historical resonance that continues to shape the city's identity to this day.

Today, Jacksonville stands as a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1822. The legacy of Andrew Jackson and the city's namesake continues to be celebrated and remembered, adding to the cultural tapestry of Jacksonville and serving as a testament to its enduring historical significance.

Famous People From Jacksonville

Merian C. Cooper (1893–1973)

Merian Caldwell Cooper was an American aviator, United States Air Force and Polish Air Force officer, adventurer, screenwriter, film director, and producer. He was a notable movie producer, starting with documentaries filmed with Ernest B. Schoedsack while traveling the world, most famously Grass and Chang.

Merian C. Cooper: Early Life and Family (1893-1910)

Merian Caldwell Cooper was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on October 24, 1893. He was the youngest of three children of John C. Cooper, a prominent attorney, and Mary Caldwell. The Cooper family had a long lineage dating back to the colonial era in Southeastern Georgia, with his great-great grandfather, John Cooper, serving as a colonel alongside Casimir Pulaski, the Polish cavalry commander during the Revolutionary War.

Dreams of Exploration and Adventure (1911-1916)

At the age of six, Merian C. Cooper began dreaming about exploration and adventures, a common dream among future aviators. He attended the United States Naval Academy but did not complete his studies, instead pursuing a career in journalism.

Military Service and Aviation Career (1917-1920)

Cooper's life took a turn when he became involved in the October Revolution in 1917. He served as an aviator and officer in the United States Air Force and later in the Polish Air Force. His experiences in aviation and military service would shape his future endeavors and influence his career in film.

Film Career and King Kong (1921-1933)

Cooper's film career began with documentaries filmed with Ernest B. Schoedsack, capturing their travels around the world. Their most famous works included "Grass" and "Chang." However, Cooper's most enduring legacy in film was the creation of the iconic movie ""King Kong"" in 1933, which solidified his reputation as a pioneering filmmaker.

Life and Legacy (1934-1973)

After the success of "King Kong," Cooper continued to be involved in the film industry, receiving an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement in 1952 and earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He passed away in 1973 at the age of 79 in San Diego, California, leaving behind a legacy as a visionary filmmaker and a pioneer in the world of cinema.

Key Achievements of Merian C. Cooper:

• Born in Jacksonville, Florida, and grew up with a passion for exploration and adventure.

• Served as an aviator and officer in the United States Air Force and Polish Air Force.

• Co-created the iconic film ""King Kong,"" which became a timeless classic in the history of cinema.

• Received an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

• Left a lasting legacy as a pioneering filmmaker and a trailblazer in the world of cinema.

Merian C. Cooper's life was marked by a relentless pursuit of adventure, a distinguished military career, and a groundbreaking contribution to the world of film. His legacy as the creator of "King Kong" continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences worldwide, cementing his place in cinematic history.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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