On June 9, The Taste of Summer event in downtown kicks-off the opening of Britt Festivals’ 50th Season. Congratulations to Britt on achieving world-class status and for making summer in Jacksonville so much fun and entertaining!
Although many events are happening this month, I want to preview an exciting one happening next month – the July 4 Community Picnic! The picnic happens on the grounds of the historic Courthouse from noon – 3 pm. Under the guidance of Mayor Paul Becker and City Administrator Jeff Alvis, a small group of volunteers including me is organizing the picnic – more help is needed so if you can lend a hand, call the Mayor at 541-899-1231 or email mayor@jacksonvilleor.us.
The picnic is intended to bring the community together to celebrate the holiday – please read the Mayor’s column on page 6 for more on the event. The mid-day timing of the picnic was chosen so you’ll have time to enjoy the morning parades beforehand and evening firework displays afterward throughout the Rogue Valley. The picnic offers fun for the whole family, including music and kid’s activities on the Courthouse lawn.
The Community picnic will be a bring-your-own-style event. When you arrive at the Courthouse, picnic tables with table cloths and chairs will be set-up on the lawn for your use. For those wishing to dine on the grass, feel free to bring a picnic blanket and your Britt-style chairs. If the weather is hot, anyone needing a bit of shade is encouraged to bring their pop-up canopy tents, as well. The Rotary Club is generously donating their large gas grill (used at Britt for many years) for grilling your own hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, steak and other items. In an effort to reduce waste and expenses, please bring your picnic basket with supplies such as tableware, plates and napkins. You should also bring your own side dishes and non-alcoholic drinks.
In the event you don’t have these items with you, don’t worry – the City is providing plates, napkins, bottled water and condiments.
The Jacksonville Fire Department will sponsor a host of kid’s games including Tug-O-War, Water Ball and a Dunk Tank! You never know whom you may have a chance to dunk! And…a watermelon eating contest is planned and open to kids of all ages! Other activities will be announced as the event nears – look for updates online at www.jacksonvillereview, on the digital info kiosk in the lobby of the Beekman Bank and on our Facebook page.
Please note: public restroom facilities and porta-potties will be open and alcoholic drinks are not permitted on the Courthouse grounds by City Ordinance.
I look forward to seeing you out and about at town-wide events this June and at the July 4th Community Picnic in our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!