Welcome to The Jacksonville Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Jacksonville Airport ranks No. 2 in 2024 passenger satisfaction.

• Florida State is college football's biggest disappointment.

• A deep-dive into the life of Brian Dawkins.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are."

— Anaïs Nin

Trivia

What is the name of the Jacksonville annual event that features a parade, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits?

A) Jacksonville Fair

B) The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair

C) River City Rodeo

D) North Florida Fair

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The area in Jacksonville known for its picturesque riverwalk is D) The Riverwalk.

News

💼Business

Jacksonville Airport Ranks No. 2 in Passenger Satisfaction in J.D. Power 2024 Study. (link)

🏒Sports

Florida State is college football's most disappointing team, and it's not even close. (link)

Questions mount for Doug Pederson on how to fix Jaguars. (link)

🏦Finance

More than $19 million more in renovations on tap for Bank of America campus. (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

🏉 LAKE ASBURY JUNIOR HIGH vs OAKLEAF JUNIOR Yellow Jackets
2851 Sandridge Rd, Green Cove Springs, FL
Monday 23 September, 2024 at 5:30 pm | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Creed - Summer of �?99 Tour
Daily's Place, Jacksonville, FL
Tue • Sep 24 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

🧵 Art After Dark at The Museum & Gardens
829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL
Tuesday 24 September, 2024 at 11:00 am | (More info)

Family

🧑‍🎨 Junior Artists (ages 5-8)
7973 Old Middleburg Rd S, Jacksonville, FL
Wednesday 25 September, 2024 at 10:15 am | (More info)

🌻 Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories from the Museum of Fine Arts Boston
829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL
Wednesday 25 September, 2024 at 11:00 am | (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 “Futuristic urban zoo in Jacksonville with holographic animals” 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

1922 - Jacksonville's first radio station, WJAX, begins broadcasting.

In 1922, Jacksonville made history as it welcomed its first radio station, WJAX, to the airwaves. The station's inaugural broadcast marked a significant milestone in the city's communication landscape, providing a new platform for entertainment, news, and community engagement. Owned and operated by the city of Jacksonville, WJAX quickly became a vital part of the local media scene, offering listeners a diverse range of programming and establishing itself as a hub for cultural and civic discourse.

WJAX's early years were characterized by innovation and growth, as it played a pivotal role in shaping the city's broadcasting history. The station's presence on the airwaves brought the community together, delivering music, information, and public service announcements to Jacksonville residents. As the first radio station in the city, WJAX set the stage for the development of a vibrant and dynamic media landscape, laying the foundation for future stations and broadcasting initiatives in the region.

Today, WJAX's legacy lives on as a testament to the enduring impact of its pioneering efforts in the world of radio broadcasting. The station's historic significance continues to be celebrated, serving as a reminder of the power of communication and the enduring influence of local media in shaping the cultural fabric of Jacksonville.

Famous People From Jacksonville

Brian Dawkins (1973–): Former professional American football player

Brian Dawkins, a former professional American football player, is best known for his remarkable career as an NFL safety. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Dawkins attended Raines High School before pursuing his passion for football at Clemson University. His journey from Jacksonville to the NFL Hall of Fame is a testament to his talent, dedication, and impact on the sport.

Early Life and Football Career (1973-1995)

Brian Patrick Dawkins was born on October 13, 1973, in Jacksonville, Florida.

He attended Raines High School, where he excelled as a star athlete, showcasing his exceptional talent and passion for football.

Dawkins continued to hone his skills at Clemson University, where he played college football and solidified his reputation as a standout player.

NFL Career and Achievements (1996-2011)

In 1996, Dawkins was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his illustrious professional career.

Known for his fierce playing style and exceptional defensive abilities, Dawkins became a key player for the Eagles, earning numerous accolades and becoming a fan favorite.

Throughout his 16-year NFL career, Dawkins appeared in 224 regular season games and 18 playoff contests, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Connection to Jacksonville and Community Involvement

Dawkins' roots in Jacksonville remained a significant part of his identity, and he maintained a strong connection to his hometown throughout his career.

His impact extended beyond the football field, as he engaged in community initiatives and supported causes that uplifted the youth and residents of Jacksonville.

Legacy and Post-Retirement (2011-Present)

Following his retirement from professional football, Dawkins continued to inspire others through his involvement in charitable endeavors and motivational speaking engagements.

His legacy as a respected athlete and role model endures, with his impact on the sport and the community serving as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Key Achievements of Brian Dawkins:

• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding career as an NFL safety.

• Named a first-team All-Pro four times during his 13-year tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles.

• Known for his fierce playing style and exceptional defensive abilities, Dawkins is tied with two other players for the most interceptions (34) in Philadelphia Eagles history.

Brian Dawkins' journey from Jacksonville to the NFL Hall of Fame is a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and enduring impact on the sport of football. His legacy as a respected athlete and community leader continues to inspire and uplift others, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the city of Jacksonville.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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