WEATHER ALERT

No peeking at this blindfold dinner experience
Read full article: No peeking at this blindfold dinner experienceCheya Thousand, founder of Kairos Kitchen, is a wellness entrepreneur dedicated to creating immersive, mindful experiences that foster meaningful connections between people. Her signature event, Savor the Moment: Mindful Blindfold Dinner, invites guests to dine blindfolded along the Emerald Trail, from the Park Street Bridge, encouraging them to slow down, engage their senses, and foster authentic community connections. Taking place September 5th, at 7 pm, this unique evening is part of the Placemaking Jax 2025 Portfolio Year, presented by VyStar Credit Union. The experience not only promotes mindfulness and mental wellness but also revitalizes downtown Jacksonville by transforming public spaces into vibrant, inclusive hubs. For tickets to future events, visit www.kairoskitchen.co, follow @mindfulblindfold on Instagram!

Celebrating art in Jacksonville with the Cultural Council
Read full article: Celebrating art in Jacksonville with the Cultural CouncilThe Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville (CCGJ), the City of Jacksonville’s legislated leading Local Arts Agency (LAA), will host its 48th Annual Arts Awards, presented by AT&T, on September 5. This signature event serves as the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting regranting initiatives and responsive funding that empower local artists and cultural organizations. This year’s ceremony will honor eight award recipients,

Save on back to school with Plato’s Closet
Read full article: Save on back to school with Plato’s ClosetPlato’s Closet gives teens and twentysomethings the premier “thrifting” experience by providing cash on the spot when you sell to us and generous trade allowances for purchasing gently used apparel and accessories from top teen and athletic wear brands, including but not limited to American Eagle, Nike, Jordan’s, Coach, Abercrombie, Urban Outfitters, lulu lemon and many more well-known Brands. By focusing on in-demand trendy styles from the past two to three years, Plato’s Closet offers a wide selection of apparel and accessories at 50-70% off mall and big box retail prices. With three convenient locations, shoppers can always find the latest trends and sought-after brands they expect—at exceptional value.

Local author creates storybook as a legacy for her daughter
Read full article: Local author creates storybook as a legacy for her daughterWhat began as a legacy for her own family is now an invitation to yours. Inspired by her daughter and created for her, Averie Lynn, My Best Friend by Courtney Jackson was born from a deep desire to share the universal concepts she wished she’d known earlier—ideas that gently remind us that happiness, worth, and inner strength don’t need to be earned or defined by others. They begin from within.

Mastering the steps that make any line dance easy to learn
Read full article: Mastering the steps that make any line dance easy to learnRhythm Rodeo, a veteran-owned dance brand founded by Jasmine “Roxy Rodeo” Batista, is bringing the energy, fun and connection of line dancing to North Florida. With a mix of country classics and today’s hottest hits, Jasmine makes dance approachable, exciting, and inclusive for all ages and skill levels. Her goal is to create a community where people can kick up their boots, have a blast, and leave feeling confident. From local classes to special events, Rhythm Rodeo is where North Florida comes to dance.

Blues, Brews, Bourbon and BBQ is back to support the Florida Theatre
Read full article: Blues, Brews, Bourbon and BBQ is back to support the Florida TheatreThe annual Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ showcases Jacksonville’s best wings, pulled pork, smoked brisket and more. Bono’s Real Pit Barbecue will be among the vendors on August 21st at Bowling Oaks. Enjoy your favorite BBQ with unlimited samples of some the city’s favorite craft beer, bourbons, spirits, and live continuous Blues music. All proceeds from Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ will benefit the nonprofit Florida Theatre Performing Arts Center, Inc. Get your tickets via the Florida Theatre.

Here Tomorrow offers lifesaving hope
Read full article: Here Tomorrow offers lifesaving hopeHere Tomorrow is a nonprofit mental health organization based in Neptune Beach that serves Jacksonville Beach and the surrounding coastal communities, specializing in suicide prevention and mental health support. Founded after the loss of Gary Kenney to suicide, the organization was created to remove barriers to mental health care, such as insurance challenges and long wait times. Here Tomorrow offers no-cost, confidential, and peer-led support through in-person, video, or phone sessions, as well as specialized support groups for teens, military members, veterans, and first responders.

Science-backed memory tips for kids headed back to school
Read full article: Science-backed memory tips for kids headed back to schoolMemory expert Dr. Tracy Packiam reveals science-backed strategies to boost learning potential as students return to school. Her research-based approach includes surprisingly simple techniques that can significantly improve memory retention.

An education expert maps the path to academic success and college scholarships
Read full article: An education expert maps the path to academic success and college scholarshipsEducation expert and Soar 2 Success Consulting LLC founder Carrie Bedard shares essential strategies for academic achievement and college preparation.

Soaring Possibilities Celebration reaches for the stars
Read full article: Soaring Possibilities Celebration reaches for the starsAngelwood, Inc. is proof that hope, heart, and a few fun twists can make a world of difference. Since 1993, this Jacksonville nonprofit has been championing people with intellectual and developmental differences, offering a creative, connected, and caring community that helps every individual soar—whether that means finding the right job, making new friends at summer camp, enjoying independence in a group home, or simply discovering their unique talents.

Discover Jacksonville’s First Coast Dental Center: A trusted name in dental care with the new Britely implant center
Read full article: Discover Jacksonville’s First Coast Dental Center: A trusted name in dental care with the new Britely implant centerFirst Coast Dental Center has been Jacksonville’s trusted destination for comprehensive dental care since 1988. The center offers a wide range of dental services all in one location.

Three commands that every dog should learn
Read full article: Three commands that every dog should learnRyann Cantrell of Lucky 7 K9 is fostering Gabe via Fur Sisters and stopped by to show off his great behavior and share which commands are her favorite. Ryann says that the “place” command, walking on a lead, and recall are all vitally important for keeping peace in the home and keeping your dog safe.

New “I Dig Jax” merch hits the city’s swag store
Read full article: New “I Dig Jax” merch hits the city’s swag storeThe City of Jacksonville’s new store is the ultimate destination for those looking to express their Jacksonville pride while supporting local initiatives. Featuring exclusive merchandise that champions projects like Mayor Donna Deegan’s River City Readers literacy initiative, the I Dig Jax infrastructure improvements campaign, and the new anti-litter and blight campaign, the store is a hub of community spirit. Locally designed and inspired by the vibrant Duval community, the merchandise reflects the creativity and energy of Jacksonville.

Getting organized before the school year begins
Read full article: Getting organized before the school year beginsOrganizer Christine Stone of Neatly Designed shared tips on how to get and stay organized as the new school year approaches. One often overlooked space is the kitchen. Christine explained that this is the hub of the house, and having an organized pantry is essential, as is having a designated place for homework and other school correspondence.

Using hypnosis to ease back-to-school anxiety in children
Read full article: Using hypnosis to ease back-to-school anxiety in childrenHypnotherapist and psychotherapist Joni Neidigh joined us to share practical advice for easing children’s anxiety as they headed back to school. She emphasized how important it was for parents to start open conversations with their kids about common worries and to normalize their feelings.

Excuse The Duval In Me collaborates with the Mayor’s Litter League to beautify Jacksonville
Read full article: Excuse The Duval In Me collaborates with the Mayor’s Litter League to beautify JacksonvilleExcuse The Duval In Me is a vibrant, community-driven brand based in Jacksonville Florida, proudly rooted in the culture and spirit of Duval County.

Kicks for the Kids builds confidence in students
Read full article: Kicks for the Kids builds confidence in studentsshoe drive—returns to give students more than fresh sneakers. It brings them a boost in confidence, a reason to smile, and, for some, the encouragement they need to head back to school.

Local teens take center stage in the summer musical Anything Goes!
Read full article: Local teens take center stage in the summer musical Anything Goes!The Summer Musical Theatre Experience (SMTE) provides the opportunity for local area high school students to work hands-on with some of the highest recognized local theatre professionals at the Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts.The Florida State College at Jacksonville High School Summer Musical Theatre Experience is celebrating its 19th year providing theatre opportunities to 7th-12th graders in the First Coast area. This summer, more than 70 student performers and technicians will train with professional theatre artists in preparation for our production of Anything Goes!

Celebrating National Caviar Day with Brine
Read full article: Celebrating National Caviar Day with BrineBrine started out as a pop-up crudo bar, and have truly elevated their concept now that they’re in their brick and mortar. They specialize in oysters and caviar but have a full menu of incredible seafood dishes. They are currently open for lunch on weekdays and dinner Monday through Saturday.

What’s that Flavor game leaves contestants speechless
Read full article: What’s that Flavor game leaves contestants speechlessRance and RCL Executive Producer Tom played a round of the What’s That Flavor game. They sampled three unusual flavors of soda, purchased by Eden at Sweet Pete’s in downtown Jacksonville. The results were priceless!

Elevate your wardrobe with the right undergarments
Read full article: Elevate your wardrobe with the right undergarmentsEden recently stopped by Jaffis Boutique for a chat with owner Emilie Christenson about the often-overlooked importance of good undergarments. Emilie shared that investing in well-fitting basics—like a supportive bra or seamless briefs—can transform how your clothes look and feel.

The ScienceSIS Foundation sparks curiosity and confidence in girls
Read full article: The ScienceSIS Foundation sparks curiosity and confidence in girlsThe ScienceSIS Foundation is making big strides this summer to get more girls excited about STEM. Erica Willie recently appeared on River City Live to share details about their latest programs, including a fun new partnership with the Jacksonville Public Library and London Loves to Read. Kids can read STEM-themed books and earn a Reading Buddy, combining literacy with science.

Trying the Zen Lounge facelift technique to tighten skin and drain sinuses
Read full article: Trying the Zen Lounge facelift technique to tighten skin and drain sinusesThe Zen Lounge in Jacksonville is a locally owned and operated day spa and Pilates studio situated at 4578 St. Johns Ave in the Avondale neighborhood.