My View – May 2022
There’s such positive energy in the air right now as Jacksonville gears up for our seasonal influx of visitors and high season kicks into full gear. I love it when the streets are teeming with visitors, eagerly soaking up our history and small-town ambiance. If I had a dollar for every time I’ve seen someone taking a selfie or a group photo with one of our historic buildings in the background…you know the rest!
May is a special month for me—the weather warms-up, the hours of daylight increase and fun activities abound—to the point where there’s so much going on, one has to make tough choices! And May is my birthday month—this year is the big 6-0…and yes, I’m starting to wonder where the time went, but that’s a topic for another column.
In this issue of the Review, you’ll find lots of things to put on your calendar. For history buffs, head over to the Beekman House and take in a house tour that explores Victorian Etiquette or take a walking Haunted History Tour…all customized tours are curated by Historic Jacksonville Inc, one of our fine volunteer groups. For more history fun, the Friends of the Cemetery is offering tours, marker cleaning workshops and more. Art fans are in for an extra special month as Art Presence hosts a show by the Pastel Artists of Oregon. Plus, the Chamber of Commerce is putting on the Second Saturday Art Walk starting this month, which includes art, wine, music and more. Still looking for something to do? Check out the classes at the Community Center or the Home Builders Association’s Annual Home Show at the Expo—sure to be a hit with real estate on everyone’s mind these days. For you hiking and woodland walkers, the refurbished Sarah Zigler Trail is a must-trek trail that’ll get your blood pumping and heart rate up. To satisfy your green thumb, follow me to the Hanley Farm Plant Sale…and be sure and make mom happy by picking up a locally-grown flower or plant arrangement at the Garden Club’s Mother’s Day Sale.
Whew…I told you there was a lot going on…read all about it here. After enjoying these truly local events, cap it off at one of our tasting rooms or restaurants with family and friends…it’ll give you a chance to rest up for your next adventure in our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!