Welcome to The Jacksonville Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Jaguars to play twice in London in '24.

• A-Sun moves HQ to Jacksonville.

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

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

- Socrates

Trivia

In Jacksonville, which historic district is known for its art galleries, trendy restaurants, and craft breweries?

A) San Marco

B) Five Points

C) Avondale

D) Springfield

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual jazz festival held in Jacksonville is A) Jacksonville Jazz Festival.

News

💼 Business

Jaguars to play twice in London in '24. (link)

Here's what the Jaguars' Stadium of the Future deal looks like. (link)

Stadium Redesign Features Expansive Bike Paths, Elevated Concourse; Surface Area Increased Significantly (link)

Jacksonville Symphony announces lineup for 75th season. (link)

🏒 Sports

Action Sports Jax 24/7 is now the official streaming partner for the Jacksonville Armada FC. (link)

A-Sun moves HQ to Jacksonville. (link)

City creates Jacksonville Sports Foundation to boost sports tourism. (link)

🏦 Finance

IQ Fiber Announces Network Expansion in Jacksonville, Florida. (link)

Who is Amit Patel, ex-Jacksonville Jaguars employee charged with stealing over $22 million? (link)

Gov. DeSantis signs bills to provide financial options for Floridians. (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 Jumbo Shrimp vs. Durham Bulls
121 Financial Ballpark, Jacksonville
Tuesday, May 28th | 12:05 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Thievery Corporation
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre Backyard Stage, St Augustine, FL
Thursday, May 23th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Divide the Fall, Reign of Z, Defy The Tyrant
Kona Skatepark 8739 Kona Ave Jacksonville, FL
Friday, May 24th | 6:30 PM | (More info)

🎷 JJ Grey & Mofro 2 Day Ticket
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre, St Augustine, FL
Saturday, May 25 - Sunday, May 26 | (More info)

🎻 Black Tusk and More in Jacksonville
Rain Dogs 1045 Park Street Jacksonville, FL
Sunday, May 26th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎢 Jacksonville Symphony
Times Union Perf. Arts-Symphony Hall, Jacksonville, FL
Friday, May 24th | 11:00 AM | (More info)

🌼 Industry Night Out-Film-Theatre and Music
Ritz Theatre, Jacksonville, FL
Saturday, May 25th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎭 Bluey's Big Play
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts - Moran Theater, Jacksonville, FL
Thursday, Jun 20th | 6:00 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 with a blend of ancient and futuristic architecture” 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

1967 - Jacksonville consolidates with Duval County, becoming the largest city in land area in the contiguous United States.

In 1967, Jacksonville made history by consolidating with Duval County, a move that transformed the city into the largest in land area in the contiguous United States. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the city's development, as it expanded its boundaries to encompass a vast expanse of land, solidifying its position as a major urban center. The consolidation brought together the city of Jacksonville and the surrounding Duval County, creating a unified entity that would shape the future of the region and establish Jacksonville as a prominent and influential city in the state of Florida.

The consolidation of Jacksonville with Duval County in 1967 had far-reaching implications for the city's governance, infrastructure, and identity. By merging the city and county governments, the consolidation streamlined administrative processes and facilitated more efficient delivery of public services to residents across the expanded area. This move also positioned Jacksonville as a leader in urban planning and development, setting the stage for the city to accommodate growth and innovation while preserving its natural landscapes and resources. As a result, Jacksonville's status as the largest city in land area in the contiguous United States underscored its commitment to progress and prosperity for its diverse and dynamic population.

Today, the legacy of the 1967 consolidation continues to shape Jacksonville's landscape, culture, and community. The city's expansive boundaries provide ample opportunities for economic expansion, residential development, and recreational amenities, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The consolidation with Duval County remains a defining moment in Jacksonville's history, symbolizing the city's resilience, adaptability, and enduring spirit of unity as it continues to evolve and thrive in the 21st century.

Famous People From Jacksonville

Asa Philip Randolph (1889–1979): Civil rights movement leader and social activist.

Asa Philip Randolph: A Jacksonville Legend (1889-1979)

Asa Philip Randolph, born on April 15, 1889, in Crescent City, Florida, emerged as an influential African American civil rights activist and labor leader. He played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights movement, Executive Order 8802, the March on Washington, and more. Randolph was a staunch advocate for equality in the workforce and the military, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Jacksonville.

Early Life and Family Background

Asa Philip Randolph was the second son of the Rev. James William Randolph, a tailor and ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, and Elizabeth Robinson Randolph, a skilled seamstress. His upbringing in Crescent City, Florida, laid the foundation for his future endeavors as a prominent civil rights leader and social activist.

Founding the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (1925-1930)

In 1925, Asa Philip Randolph founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP), the nation's first major Black labor union. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in the fight for equitable labor rights for African Americans and solidified Randolph's position as a trailblazing leader and organizer.

Civil Rights Advocacy and Executive Order 8802 (1940s)

During the 1940s, Randolph's advocacy efforts led to a pivotal moment in civil rights history when he pressured President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue Executive Order 8802, which prohibited racial discrimination in the defense industry. This landmark executive order was a significant victory in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and equal employment opportunities.

March on Washington and the Civil Rights Movement (1963)

Asa Philip Randolph played a key role in organizing the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. This monumental event, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, brought national attention to the issues of civil rights and economic justice, further cementing Randolph's legacy as a central figure in the Civil Rights movement.

Legacy and Impact on Jacksonville

Asa Philip Randolph's legacy extends beyond his national influence, as he remains one of the most historically important figures to emerge from Jacksonville. His outspoken advocacy for equality and his efforts to expose unfair working conditions and discrimination have left an enduring impact on the history of Jacksonville and the broader civil rights movement.

Key Achievements of Asa Philip Randolph:

• Founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the nation's first major Black labor union.

• Pressured President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue Executive Order 8802, prohibiting racial discrimination in the defense industry.

• Played a pivotal role in organizing the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

• Advocated for equality in the workforce and the military, leaving an indelible mark on the Civil Rights movement.

• Emerged as one of the most historically important figures to emerge from Jacksonville, with a lasting impact on the city's history and the broader civil rights movement.

Asa Philip Randolph's story is one of unwavering dedication to the pursuit of civil rights and equality, leaving a profound impact on the history of Jacksonville and the nation. His legacy as a civil rights movement leader and social activist continues to inspire future generations to advocate for justice and equality.”

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-Matthew Larsen

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