Welcome to The Jacksonville Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Jacksonville Symphony performance

• Ross Matiscik of the Jacksonville Jaguars selected for Pro Bowl

• A deep-dive into the life of A. Philip Randolph

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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!

What year was the city of Jacksonville founded?

A) 1821

B) 1822

C) 1832

D) 1842

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The famous bridge in Jacksonville that spans the St. Johns River is D) Dames Point Bridge.

News

💼 Business

Passenger traffic at Jacksonville International Airport breaks previous records, indicating a robust increase in travel and tourism in the region​​. (link)

Mocama Beer Co. and Strings Sports Brewery plan expansions, reflecting growth and dynamism in the local brewery sector despite broader industry challenges​​. (link)

Jacksonville's craft breweries, like Aardwolf Brewing Co., navigate market shifts and operational challenges while contributing significantly to the local economy​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Josh Allen and Ross Matiscik of the Jacksonville Jaguars are selected for the 2024 Pro Bowl, marking Allen's second appearance​​. (link)

Monique Whiteman, from New Zealand, joins the Flagler College cross country team, embarking on her athletic journey in the States​. (link)

🏦 Finance

JPMorgan Chase plans to open 10 new branches in Northeast Florida, boosting its regional workforce by over 100 employees​​. (link)

The Jacksonville Daily Record introduces a new app and digital subscriptions, enhancing access to its news content​​. (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
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏈 USA Flag Football Southeast Championship
Fort Family Park
February 10th to February 11th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎻 Jacksonville Symphony
Jacoby Symphony Hall At Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🎤 Love & Music Festival 2
Tree Hill Nature Center
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

🎭 Mike Birbiglia
Florida Theatre
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

🎶 Joseph Habedank's 2024 Winter Tour
Gardenview Baptist Church
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Hadestown
Moran Theater At Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts
Feb. 6 - Feb. 11 | (More Info)

🧹 February S-Line Clean Up
Emmett Reed Gymnasium
Feb. 10th | (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 with domed buildings” 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

Fort Caroline is established by French settlers, one of the first European settlements (1564)

In 1564, a significant chapter in the early history of European colonization in the Americas unfolded with the establishment of Fort Caroline by French Huguenot settlers. Led by René Goulaine de Laudonnière, the settlers sought religious freedom and new opportunities in the New World. They chose a strategic location near the present-day city of Jacksonville, along the banks of the River of May, known today as the St. Johns River. This settlement represented one of the first European attempts to establish a permanent presence in what is now the southeastern United States.

Fort Caroline was more than a military stronghold; it was a symbol of hope and ambition. The settlers aimed to create a thriving community, capitalizing on the fertile land and favorable climate. The fort was named in honor of King Charles IX of France (Carolus in Latin), reflecting the French crown's support for the endeavor. Despite the challenges of settlement, including supply shortages and conflicts with the native population, the French settlers at Fort Caroline laid the foundations for a new society.

However, the existence of Fort Caroline became a point of contention in the power struggle between European nations vying for control of the New World. The Spanish, viewing the French presence as a threat to their claims in the region, moved to eliminate the challenge. In 1565, in a dramatic and violent confrontation, Spanish forces under the command of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés captured Fort Caroline, marking an abrupt end to the French endeavor. Despite its short existence, Fort Caroline's legacy endured, symbolizing the complex and often turbulent history of European colonization in North America. The fort's establishment in 1564 remains a testament to the courage and ambition of the early settlers who ventured across the Atlantic in pursuit of freedom and new beginnings.

Famous People From Jacksonville

A. Philip Randolph (1889–1979)

Early Life and Education (1889-1907)

Asa Philip Randolph was born in 1889 in Crescent City, Florida, and later moved to Jacksonville. Raised in a supportive family that valued education and social justice, Randolph's upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of dignity and a commitment to equality. His early life in Jacksonville exposed him to the realities of racial segregation and economic disparity.

Move to New York and Early Activism (1908-1919)

In search of broader opportunities, Randolph moved to New York City, where he attended City College. Immersed in the vibrant cultural and intellectual life of Harlem, he became increasingly involved in social activism, advocating for racial equality and workers' rights.

Founding of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (1920-1929)

Randolph's keen understanding of labor issues led him to organize the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in 1925. This union, comprised predominantly of African American railroad porters, became a powerful force in the labor movement, challenging discriminatory practices and advocating for fair labor standards.

Labor Union Achievements and Civil Rights Advocacy (1930-1940)

Under Randolph's leadership, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters secured significant labor agreements, setting precedents for workers' rights and wages. Randolph's role in the union movement also underscored his broader commitment to civil rights, as he worked to dismantle institutional racism and promote social justice.

March on Washington Movement and Wartime Contributions (1941-1950)

Randolph's activism reached a national stage when he organized the March on Washington Movement during World War II, demanding desegregation of the armed forces and fair employment practices. His efforts led to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Executive Order 8802, which prohibited racial discrimination in the defense industry.

Civil Rights Leadership and Organizational Influence (1951-1960)

In the post-war era, Randolph continued to be a leading figure in the civil rights movement. He played a pivotal role in various organizations, including the NAACP and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, advocating for desegregation, voting rights, and economic justice.

March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (1961-1970)

Randolph's vision culminated in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, a landmark event in the civil rights movement. As a key organizer, Randolph helped orchestrate the gathering where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic ""I Have a Dream"" speech, highlighting the march's significance in advocating for civil and economic rights.

Later Years and Continued Advocacy (1971-1979)

In his later years, Randolph remained an influential voice in the civil rights and labor movements. His continued advocacy and leadership inspired a new generation of activists and leaders committed to the cause of justice and equality.

Death and Enduring Legacy (1979)

A. Philip Randolph passed away in 1979. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to the tireless pursuit of civil rights, labor equality, and social justice. Randolph's legacy as a pioneering labor unionist and civil rights leader continues to influence and inspire.

Key Achievements:

Organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first predominantly African American labor union.

Instrumental in the desegregation of the armed forces and the defense industry through the March on Washington Movement.

Played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, including the organization of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

His advocacy and leadership set the foundation for future civil rights legislation and labor reforms.

Summary:

A. Philip Randolph's journey from the streets of Jacksonville to the forefront of the civil rights and labor movements is a testament to his visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to equality, and profound impact on American society. As a labor unionist and civil rights leader, Randolph's legacy continues to resonate, symbolizing the interconnectedness of labor rights, civil rights, and the ongoing struggle for social justice and human dignity.

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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