Guest My View – November 2024

MY WIFE, KANDEE, and I attended the Britt Festival annual meeting on September 30 which included the election of new members to the Board of Directors and a “State of Britt” presentation by Britt CEO, Abby McKee. The highlight for me was an outline for the renovation of the US Hotel on California Street for the Britt Festival offices. While this will be at least a four-year project, the result will be the preservation and revitalization of this historic gem. Thanks to the energetic and positive leadership of Abby, and support of the Britt Board, I am confident that the dream will become a reality—and a great addition to our town.

Attending this meeting led to an “aha!” moment for me. I realized that the renovation of the US Hotel was just one aspect I see as positive energy flowing in abundance in Jacksonville. Take, for example, the Jacksonville Community Center. Under the direction of the Executive Director, Julie Raefield, and an engaged Board of Directors, the Community Center has emerged as an integral part of Jacksonville in the process of creating programs to match the interests of all ages. It truly is a family community center.

I must commend the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce which has found a new source of energy and, while it may be trite to say, they are truly thinking outside the box. With the very capable Belita Palu-ay serving as the Chamber’s Executive Director and Julie Baker serving as director of the Trolley services, they are on solid footing for now and into the future. The President of the Chamber, Brian Dunn, is a visionary and with the support of another strong board of directors, is willing to step out and try new ways to promote Jacksonville. I can’t wait to see how the Chamber’s new Holiday Lights Trolley Tour will benefit Jacksonville businesses as guests tour our historic buildings and residences in full holiday décor. This venture alone just might put Jacksonville on the map, and I say, “Well done Chamber!”

Another example of the positive energy flowing in Jacksonville is well along in its planning stages, and I’m talking about the Jacksonville History Center, aka, the Jacksonville Museum. First conceived of by City Councilor, Ken Gregg, this history center will have a home in the Old City Hall building and will be coupled with historic walking tours. Ken assembled a team of knowledgeable and qualified planners, and they took off running. A final architectural and program plan will be unveiled before the end of the year. I have seen the preliminary plans and can assure you that the History Center will be a tremendous addition and asset to our city.

Underlying all these positive aspects in Jacksonville is the undiminishing volunteer spirit that exists like no other place I have ever lived. All these organizations have at the heart of them volunteers, whether serving on a supportive board, doing hands-on work or being part of a planning team, they give of their time and resources unselfishly.

Please join me in being grateful for all we have to be proud of and celebrate in Jacksonville. Our best days are ahead of us.