Folio Vol. 38, Issue 15

Page 10


2024 PAGE 25 WE’RE DOOMED HOW REALITY TV DATING SHOWS HOLD A MIRROR TO THE DARK SIDE OF DATING IN REALITY WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB CONCERT PAGE 48 AIN’T NO PARTY LIKE A HURRICANE PARTY PAGE 17

ANGELA PHILLIPS Publisher

TERESA SPENCER General Manager

JOHN PHILLIPS Vice President

KERRY SPECKMAN Copy Editor/ Writer

AMBAR RAMIREZ Creative Director

CARMEN MACRI Multi-media Creative/ Social Media Manager/ Lead Writer

SHELTON HULL Writer

AMIYAH GOLDEN Writer/Photographer

Writer

EMILY CHEYNE Writer

EMILY CANNON Writer

TAYLOR BROWN Account Executive/Writer

KARA CARTER Writer

MALLORY PACE

Writer

HARRY MOORE

Writer

TIM JONES

Comic Curator

Get out of the sun, cool off, take a chill pill and try to be a journalist. It is not Trump’s Project 25. It is a wish list by the Heritage Foundation, and I, about as easily profiled as can be, reject it, just as Trump has done with some of it. It give him no power. The items on the wish list cannot happen without Congressional approval. Trump has said he would not ban abortion. SCOTUS which you probably excoriate constantly, said it is an individual State matter. Trump via the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 lowered taxes across the board. The Act is set to expire in December 31, 2025. Bet you a thousand dollars he doesn’t allow that to happen. I saw your little opposition blurb in the recent edition I picked up. You haven’t changed in approximately 30 years. Unfortunately, you still have some influence on the witless, Fiji Water dri nking, THC addled fog brain wannabe Hippies around here, but have some self respect. You twist the news so much you just might screw yourselves into the ground.

BOUQS & BRICKS

BOUQUETS

To New Worlds Reading Initiative for helping Florida students meet grade-level reading expectations . The free home literacy program offers nine free books and reading activities in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole and braille and is available to families in Duval County. For more information or to enroll, visit newworldsreading.com/en

BRICKBATS

To tailgaters. No, not the ones who sip suds and eat barbecue before a sporting event or concert. We mean drivers in Northeast Florida who follow too closely behind another car, leaving no room to stop if braking is necessary.

Despite the admonition here, we know tailgaters aren’t going to stop any time soon (or ever, really), so here’s a tip on how to disengage with one. First, ensure you are not driving too slowly, then simply move to the right lane or pull over to let the tailgater pass. Do NOT brake suddenly or block them from passing as this may escalate the situation. It’s also illegal and considered a form of aggressive driving that can be linked to road rage. And don’t honk or scream or flip the other driver off. Just take care of your own safety and get out of the way.

HOROSCOPES

Get your dancing boots on, Aries, because you will be partying all August long. The feeling of being a home body is fleeting and the local dive bar is calling your name. Mars, your ruling planet, is in Leo for the beginning of the month, igniting your passion for self expression — and partying.

ARIES TAURUS

Welcome to August, Taurus. While many are getting ready for the school season and finally unpacking their vacation bags, you’re stuck in a nostalgic loop, not quite ready to stop romanticizing your summer. Good news is that you don’t have to stop. Your ruling planet, Venus, will be in Cancer for most of the month, urging you to nurture relationships and create a cozy environment at home.

GEMINI

Communication is key this month, Gemini — we know how hard that is for you. It is time to put your big boy pants on and face things head on. Mercury, your ruling planet, will enter retrograde on the fourth calling for you to be extra mindful with how you express yourself. Not everyone can read your mind or your intentions. Think before you speak.

CANCER

After what we hope was a fulfilling Cancer season, you’re finally at a point in your life where you are ready to accept love. With Venus in your sign for most of the month, you’ll be feeling more confident and attractive. Use this to your advantage, Cancer, and assert yourself to go after what (or who) you really want.

LEO

Happy birthday, Leo! (Though you act like every day is your birthday.) With the Sun in your sign for most of the month, you will be radiating a confidence that will be undeniable, almost palpable. That being said, your love life will take quite the exciting turn this month. Interpret that as you will.

VIRGO

While we are a ways away from hibernation season, it seems that you are needing to retreat sooner rather than later, Virgo. With your ruling planet Mercury going retrograde this month, your going to feel like the only thing that can solve your problems is if you ignore them and hide away in the dark corners of your room. Newsflash, that will more than likely worsen your troubles so maybe put on a helmet and face them head on.

Are you going to go your whole life waiting to be invited out by your friends or is this the month you finally make the first move, Libra? In all seriousness, with Venus in Cancer for most of the month, you’re going to be hyperfixated on your social life and long-term goals. Meaning that it’s time to get serious about your relationships, romantic and platonic.

It’s a single summer for you, Scorpio, and if it’s not, make it one. August is a time of renewal for you. It is time to focus on yourself and work on healing those demons. With Saturn in your fifth house of romance, you always seek stability and commitment with your partners. Let’s work on that. Don’t tie yourself down to one miserable relationship; why not have three?

Libra Scorpio Sagittarius

You’ve neglected your adventurous side for far too long, Sagittarius, and this month there’s no stopping it from coming to the surface. With your ruling planet Jupiter still in Taurus, you’re going to keep seeing signs from the universe pushing you to try new things in both your work life and relationships. And the universe is also pushing you to take another trip because summer only stops when you say it does.

Capricorn

Money this, controlling that, maybe it is time to break the stereotype and take on a whole new persona. Maybe one that is more lax? Or maybe one that is not so insufferable? It seems like every decision you’ve been making has been the wrong one, and you knew that going into it. Now is not the time for a pity party. Get it together.

Aquarius

Wow, Aquarius, we would ask who hurt you, but unfortunately, we know the answer. And though you’ve probably been told that bad things come in threes, it seems that a limit does not exist. With your ruling planet Uranus in Taurus, expect the unexpected. It’s about the only thing you can depend on at this point.

Pisces

How’s that big move going? Regretting it yet? Sure hope not. With Neptune, your ruling planet, still in your sign and in retrograde, it will bring forth a sense of focus for your daily routines. Keep it going. Find a hobby and stick with it.

Photos courtesy of the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. All rights reserved.

LIFE

BEHIND

The spotlight has been fixed on not just the football players during this year’s preseason. Since the new hit Netflix show “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders” premiered the talk of NFL cheerleaders has been at the forefront of the media. This show follows the behind the scenes life of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC). The seven-episode docuseries gives viewers the chance to see into a world most will never know. As many new fans are taking to TikTok to try the cheerleader’s signature dance to AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” and trying their best at a jump split, others are looking further into other topics from the show such as pay, mental health and the physical wellbeing of these girls.

THE POM-POMS

While the idea of being a cheerleader for any NFL team seems like a glamorous, exciting life, it also comes with many struggles and issues that most will never understand. These girls are meant to be perfect at all times with full hair and makeup and body standards that almost seem impossible to the normal person, but their one goal is to please others and make others feel good.This new show was able to give an insight to fans on the other side of this idea and develop a conversation about these issues.

One of the cheerleaders shown on the show was not able to fully say the pay of a DCC but related it to being a “full time employee at Chick-Fil-a.” While a football player for the same team is making millions of dollars a year. According to a 2017 report by ESPN, the average pay for a cheerleader is $150 dollars per game with additional pay for appearances, practice and other events which on average is around $22,000 dollars a year. (The DCC are said to make $500 per game.) Many of the cheerleaders mention that they do not do this for the money but to fulfill a dream they have been training for their entire life.

The mental health aspect is a side that needs to be addressed. With trying to keep the high standards of the team while being committed to working a full time job and the extra parts of being a cheerleader they do not get much time to breathe. Trying to always be perfect and not let any emotion show can take a toll on their mental health. The picture perfect ideas and expectations of cheerleaders make hopefuls think that their lives would be perfect if they were one of them. When candidates get into training camp, it flips to a new perspective from the normal eye. Being told how to look, how to eat and basically being told that you have to be a certain way to make the team can affect someone’s mental health.

Former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Victoria Kalina, opened up on the show about her mental health about struggling with depression during her four seasons with the Cowboys and even took a break in between her seasons to get the help she needed. She now shares about it on her Instagram account in a series she started called “Mental Health Mondays” to help others that may be struggling.

Physical wear and tear on the cheerleaders bodies is also a concern. I mean, it isn’t in everyday life that you jump into a split over and over. Many of the cheerleaders face injuries each season and the wear and tear on their bodies is an issue that needs to be looked into further. Not to mention the eating habits and disorders this line of work can lead to with the crazy schedules they have and the uniform standards that exist. The classic uniform of the Cowboys Cheerleaders does not hide much of one’s body and that can cause some to take drastic measures to feel good in the uniform. Most cheerleaders only do a few years because of the body issues it can cause. Former DCC Caroline Sundvold shared on the show about her surgeries to her hip and foot after she retired while showing her accepting the Veteran of the Year award on crutches and another dancer stating that she lives with hip pain each day from the high kicks and jump splits.

The glamorous lives of NFL cheerleaders may seem as if they are living the dream and that their world is perfect but is the reward worth the work they are putting in. Young girls dream of pom-poms and stepping on the field as a cheerleader causes them to work their entire lives for a shot at it. From growing up in the dance studio and years of prep classes to experience what it may be like one day. The idea of this perfect world to some can be a nightmare to others that are actually in it.

Photos courtesy of the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. All rights reserved.

TUESDAY,

Friday, August 2, 7:05PM FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS! Join the Jumbo Shrimp on Red Shirt Friday, where players and staff will wear red each Friday to support the military, and fans who wear red save $1 on their ticket at the box office or can donate the $1 to charity. Enjoy Friday Night Lites with $2 12oz. Miller Lites, presented by Miller Lite, and be sure to stick around after the game for Friday Night Fireworks, presented by Union Home Mortgage. Saturday, August 3, 6:35PM BACK TO SCHOOL: SCHOOL SPIRIT NIGHT

August 4,

AUGUST 1-4

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Lehigh Valley Ironpigs

121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville

AUGUST 9

Tour De Pain

TBD 1stplacesports.com

AUGUST 10

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Everbank Stadium jaguars.com

AUGUST 13-18

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Memphis Redbirds

121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville

AUGUST 17

Ocean Marathon Swim

Jacksonville Beach 1stplacesports.com

AUGUST 17

Mandarin Athletics, Community and Alumni Mustang 5K

Mandarin High School 1stplacesports.com

AUGUST 17

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

TIAA Bank Field jaguars.com

AUGUST 23

Cecil Field Summer Open 5K

Cecil Field Golf Course 1stplacesports.com

AUGUST 24

JTC Summer Beach Run

Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion 1stplacesports.com

AUGUST 27-31

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Norfolk Tides 121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/Jacksonville

THIS SH*T IS (SAVANNAH) BANANAS!

Why the Savannah Bananas are the greatest show in sports and why more teams should take notes

Everything you knew about baseball has turned on its head with the Savannah Bananas, and as their digital marketing coordinator Savanah Alaniz put it, “Baseball purists hate these games because they are totally different.” But the fans — and the internet — love them.

If you’ve been out of the loop or living under a rock for the past few years, you might have missed the rise of a former Coastal Plains League (CPL) that’s become a nationwide sensation with 8.7 million followers on TikTok. This baseball team does more than just play the game — they engage and entertain their audience with more than just the sport. Composed of recently graduated college athletes and former minor and Major League Baseball (MLB) players, they bring a unique flair to the sport — though they are not an MLB team themselves, minor or major.

During their collegiate off-season, the Bananas began playing exhibition games, which is where they began to implement some of the many rules and regulations that ultimately led to their internet success. The list is too far and wide to fully explain (though it is worth checking out), but the games played under these new rules were coined as Banana Ball.

NO BUNTING. According to a Savannah Bananas video, “Bunting sucks. We’re eliminating it. Swing the bat.” Bunters will be thrown out of the game.

THE BATTER CAN STEAL FIRST BASE. If the pitcher throws a wild ball, the batter can either hit the ball or take off.

FANS CAN MAKE AN OUT. If a spectator catches a foul ball, it’s an out.

SHOWDOWN TIEBREAKER. If a game is tied after nine innings or two hours, it goes to a one-on-one showdown with just the pitcher, batter, and one fielder. Only one out is allowed. If the batter is retired, the other team gets to hit. If the ball is in play, the fielder must stop the batter from scoring. The showdown continues until one team scores more than the other.

BANANA BALL CHALLENGE RULE:

Any spectator can challenge a ruling on the field.

The reasons behind the Bananas’ online success are clear. Their in-game clips — featuring players swinging flaming baseball bats, pitching from atop stilts, shooting confetti and executing choreographed dance routines — are perfectly crafted for social media. But don’t minimize the team’s popularity to strictly their online presence. The team previously had a 500,000-person waitlist for their 2023 season because of the infectious environment that is their games.

After Banana Ball was introduced, the Savannah Bananas played as two separate teams under one name — one following the traditional CPL rules and another focused solely on Banana Ball. This dual setup sometimes led to confusion, as fans would show up expecting the wild Banana Ball they’d seen online, only to find themselves at a standard CPL game instead. That led to the disbanding of their CPL team at the end of the 2022 season to focus fully on Banana Ball — and we see how well that turned out for them.

Since 2022, the Bananas have consistently sold out games nationwide. While their main focus is on Banana Ball, featuring teams like the Party Animals (who bring stilts, flaming bats, and choreographed dances), they also host more traditional challenger games against other professional teams but still keep their flair which entices the other teams to play along. In a recent interview with “The Guardian,” the Florence Y’alls’ thirdbase coach Michael Morris said, “I love it, man. Getting to be a part of this environment is a really cool thing.”

It’s a bit surprising that more teams aren’t riding the Bananas’ coattail considering the massive success the team has found. Just last season, the Bananas’ owners turned down a million-dollar ticket purchase. They believed it would be a disservice to the fans, benefiting only ticket scalpers. And the reason they are able to play this type of baseball is because of the devotion the fans have to the game.

Seeing how widely successful the Bananas have become raises the question (maybe only for me), why can’t the Jumbo Shrimp follow in their footsteps? Imagine how electric the games would become if they implemented a few fan-service rules and learned a few choreographed dances. No harm no foul (ball).

AIN’T NO PARTY LIKE A HURRICANE PARTY

As hurricane season approaches, it’s time for friends and family to come together, share laughter, stock the booze, and prepare for the storm - both with supplies and a sense of community.

As hurricane season approaches, it’s time for friends and family to come together, share laughter, stock the booze and prepare for the storm — both with supplies and a sense of community.

A familiar ritual unfolds when a hurricane is heading toward the coast: grocery store frenzies, gas stations running dry, alcohol sales spiking and hurricane parties beginning to commence. Living in a culture dedicated to productivity, a storm can cause schools and businesses to close, giving a rare chance to disconnect from busy lives and connect with neighbors and loved ones.

Hurricane parties are a tradition that dates back to before World War II and reflect a coping mechanism in the face of nature’s chaos. Back then, residents could not evacuate, and prohibition had just fallen. Drinking became normalized, and these gatherings even influenced storms to be labeled by the amount of liquor predicted to be consumed: one-quart, two-quart or threequart storms. Today, despite the “Florida Man” headlines and the state’s perceived criticism, these social occasions continue to foster a sense of community and positivity in the uncertainty of a storm.

Those who have not experienced life on the coast during the peak months of August through October may only see the aftermath of a hurricane’s destruction and frown upon hosting a party during a tropical cyclone event. Hurricane parties are not a solution to these storms but are a way to cope with the chaos of the crisis, to satisfy that need to feel calm, stay positive and maintain a sense of comfort in the face of fear.

If this season you find yourself forced to bunker down amid a tropical ruin and need a plan of action to shelter your neighbors, here are a few tips for hosting or attending a safe and enjoyable Hurricane Party:

SAFETY FIRST:

• Board windows, secure doors, and clear the yard of furniture, grills and bikes.

• Designate an interior room to stay away from windows and doors.

• Stay indoors and avoid going outside.

• Ensure all attendees are prepared to stay in place as long as necessary.

• Monitor the news for emergency information and have an evacuation plan if needed.

POWER PREPAREDNESS:

• Keep phones charged to stay updated.

• Have candles and flashlights ready.

• Utilize coolers filled with ice.

FOOD AND WATER:

• Stock non-perishable food like bread, peanut butter, crackers, chips, granola bars, cookies and trail mix.

• Ensure you have plenty of water stored; FEMA recommends at least one gallon per person per day.

• Fill reusable water bottles or mason jars to place in the freezer for extra cooling if the power goes out.

ALCOHOL:

• BYOB (bring your own booze) is a common courtesy. Consider making a themed drink like the Hurricane cocktail, traditionally made with rum and passion fruit syrup, or adding ingredients like orange juice, grenadine and lime juice. Beer, wine and seltzers are also easy to store.

• Entertainment:

• Prepare games that do not require electricity like Uno, Cards Against Humanity and Monopoly to keep everyone entertained.

The “Hurricane Party” label is to be taken light-heartedly, it is an offering of a safe place to pass the time while riding out a storm. These gatherings are not to undermine advice from officials nor put individuals in harm’s way. If you have the safety and precautions to indulge in these social occasions, do so responsibly. In the depredations of hurricanes this season, appreciate the moments bound by community that ease anxiety. Be present with those you surround yourself with, enjoy the halt on everyday responsibilities, and most importantly, stay prepared and stay safe.

AV IIRTMONDAYS

• St. Augustine Fish Company & Oyster House, 6 p.m

• V Pizza–Mandarin (music bingo), 6 p.m.

• Iguana on Park (cashpot bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• 9 Ball Heaven Sports Grill & Billiards, 7 p.m.

• Amici (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Donovan’s Irish Pub, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Park, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–River City/ Northside, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7:30 p.m.

• Rain Dogs, 8 p.m.

• Treylor Park (pop culture), 9 p.m.

TUESDAYS

• St. Mary’s Seafood (music bingo) 6 p.m.

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Fleming Island (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–St. Aug, 6:30 p.m.

• V Pizza– St. Augustine, 6:30 p.m.

• The Back 40, 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.

• Gator’s Dockside–Oakleaf, (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Island Wing Company–Bartram, 7 p.m.

• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.

• Jerry’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Deerwood, 7 p.m.

• My Tap Room (pop culture), 7 p.m.

• Players Grille, 7 p.m.

• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.

• VooSwar, 7 p.m.

• Surfside Kitchen, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fernandina (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Xtreme Wings Sports Bar and Grille, St. Johns, 7 p.m.

• Culhane’s Irish Pub–Southside, 7:30 p.m.

• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• King Maker Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.

• Lynch’s Irish Pub (music bingo), 7:30 p.m.

• Monkey’s Uncle Tavern, 7:30 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 p.m.

• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.

• Casbah Cafe, 8 p.m.

• Sahara Cafe, 8 p.m.

• Shantytown Pub, 8:30 p.m.

• Surfer the Bar (pop culture trivia), 9:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• V Pizza–Mandarin, 6:30 p.m.

• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.

• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.

• Ink Factory Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Island Wing–Bartram (music bingo) 7 p.m.

• Island Wing–Southside, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Hodges, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Jacksonville Beach, 7 p.m.

• Scarlett O’ Hara’s, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Shaughnessy’s Sports Grill, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fernandina, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Palm Valley, 7 p.m.

• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Burrito Gallery–Town Center (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.

• Harps American Grill (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–5 Points, 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 7:30 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.

• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m

• Wicked Barley Brewing, 7:30 p.m.

• The Brix Taphouse (pop culture trivia), 8 p.m.

• Hamburger Mary’s (drag bingo, 21+), 8 p.m.

THURSDAYS

• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 7 p.m.

• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings– Nocatee (name that tune), 7 p.m.

• Justice Pub (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Island Wing Company–Southside (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Kava and Company–San Marco (every other Thursday), 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Avenues, 7 p.m.

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra, 7 p.m.

• The Stout Snug, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza– Fernandina (what’s that song), 7 p.m.

• Burrito Gallery–Brooklyn (’80s, ’90s & 2000s), 7:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings– St. Aug, 7:30 p.m.

• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.

• V Pizza–San Marco, 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 8 p.m.

FRIDAYS

• Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 6 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Grill, 6:30 p.m.

• Engine 15 Brewing, 7 p.m.

• MVP’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.

• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAYS

• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.

• VooSwar, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo (pop culture), 7p.m.

• Ink Factory Brewing (name that tune), 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.

FILMS OF THE SUMMER

KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

Set somewhere between Andy Serkis’ ape revolution and Charlton Heston having a monkey made out of him, Wes Ball’s “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” delves head first into ape society with opposing tribes and factions sewing division amongst the intellectually advanced beasts . This return to the planet of the apes takes more cues from the storytelling in fantasy epics as opposed to the more apocalyptic tone that guided the previous trilogy’s interpretation. “Kingdom” stays close to “the hero’s journey” story structure that has come to define so many of these high-genre stories. The film follows Noa, a young ape on a journey to save his tribe who have been abducted by the tyrannical ape king Proximus Caesar, who seeks to take control of what remains of human technology. There’s a lot that works in Ball’s film. It is a marvel from a visual standpoint, and when the film is operating on a larger scope it plays like an apefilled Middle-earth which is a wonderfully ludicrous concept. But at a character level, it is perfunctory and forgettable with none of the cast making much of an impression. It is kind of like watching a version of “A New Hope” without Han Solo — and as there is a lot of evidence to show, “Star Wars” just doesn’t have that x-factor without Harrison Ford. “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” falls victim to one of the major flaws of modern event films, as it largely serves as a setup for sequels that may not come for years, if at all, ultimately diminishing the level of satisfaction the film can achieve.

HIT MAN

Loosely based on a true story, this comedic thriller follows a psychology professor who moonlights as a fake hitman in undercover sting operations for the police, but things spiral out of control after he falls for a potential client. Over the past 30 years, director Richard Linklater has steadily built varied filmography that has delved into a range of genres, while always maintaining an inviting, lackadaisical tone that is distinctly Linklater. Whether it be “School of Rock,” “Dazed and Confused” or “Boyhood,” Linklater’s sensibility always emanates through — and “Hit Man” is no different. The film works as a kind of audition tape for its star, the current it-boy of Hollywood Glen Powell with the role inviting him to show a level of range that had not yet been revealed. On a surface level, his character Gary dons a multitude of disguises, which allows Powell to live out being a sketch comic playing broad, cartoonish characters while the film itself demands that Powell demonstrate his leading man credentials, as he has to play both serious, comedic and romantic over the many twists and turns the plot takes. Powell largely lives up to those demands, convincingly carrying the film’s many tone shifts and exhibiting a charged chemistry opposite Adria Arjona, who is herself something of a minor revelation in the film with a charmingly captivating performance. “Hit Man” is a surprising and eminently watchable addition to Linklater’s stellar career.

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence return to demolish the streets of Miami once again, this time the wise-cracking cop duo of Mike and Marcus find themselves on the run after being framed for corruption and must clear their names. I’m sure Will Smith wasn’t planning on retreating to the safety of one of his well-worn franchises after winning his Oscar, but we are all the better for it as this is the mode Smith works best in. Smith is in his element cruising around the highways in a sports car and sharing barbs with Martin Lawrence with the chemistry of the pair crackling just as well as it did in the mid-’90s. Directors Adil & Bilal continue to helm the series after taking it over from Michael Bay with the previous entry “Bad Boys: For Life.” The directing duo bring a lot of energy to the film and inventively shoot the action sequences with a lot of style without going to the bombastic heights of peak “Bayhem.” “Bad Boys 4 “never loses sight of its ambitions and cleanly hits its target of being a fun action comedy that utilizes the talent of its stars to their best effect.

THE BIKERIDERS

The rise and fall of a 1960s Mid-Western motorcycle club unfolds in Jeff Nichols’ drama starring the current holy trinity of voice-shifting actors in Jodie Comer, Tom Hardy and Austin Butler. Largely told through the eyes of Kathy (Comer), a housewife who finds herself in a lust-fueled romance with Benny (Butler), a local rebel without a cause and member of the local motorcycle club The Vandals, led by the stoic Johnny (Hardy). Though the group starts out as a social club for bike enthusiasts to drink and race each other, it is soon corrupted by drugs, violence and criminal enterprise. At its relatively brisk runtime under two hours, “The Bikeriders” is a perfectly serviceable rendition of the crime-not-paying story archetype, but it doesn’t do much that other films haven’t previously done better with this well-trodden trope. From its opening scene, in which one of our leads is in a moment of dramatic violence before cutting to a scene set years prior with a voice-over describing the allure of biker culture, we can see how indebted to “Goodfellas” Nichols’ film is, which is emphasized further with Kathy operating as a surrogate Karen Hill (played by Lorraine Bracco), with her side of the story as the outsider looking into a lurid underworld. Though it could be argued that “The Bikeriders” wears its influences on its sleeve; Johnny is inspired to start the club after watching the film “The Wild Ones,” even going as far as dressing like Marlon Brando’s character while Butler leans heavily into the James Dean mold of leading man to portray his character. The cast is the film’s strongest asset. And while the three leads don’t exactly stretch themselves to show a side of themselves we haven’t seen before, they manage to create incredibly lived-in characters with ease, as the supporting cast is a who’s who of gruff character actors who can inhibit these roles in their sleep. Nichols’ film hardly reinvents the wheel, but there’s enough fuel in its engine to get where it needs to go without breaking down.

THEATER/DANCE

THROUGH AUGUST 11

“9 to 5: The Musical” Limelight Theatre limelight-theatre.org

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com

AUG. 3-4

LOL JAX Film Festival: Part VIII WJCT Studios loljax.com

AUGUST 9-18

“The Wedding Singer” The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com

AUGUST 9-24

“The Mousetrap”

Amelia Community Theatre, Fernandina Beach ameliacommunitytheatre.org

AUGUST 9-25

“BAT BOY the Musical” ABET abetjax.com

AUGUST 14-15

“Mega Stars Of Country” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com

AUGUST 15

“Shakesbeer A Brewery Tour” Ruby Beach Brewing lumenrep.org

AUGUST 16-18

“That’ll Be The Day: A Tribute To Buddy Holly” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com

AUGUST 16-24

“The ripple, the wave that carried me home” Florida Ballet Theatre the5anddime.org

AUG. 16-SEPT. 8

Annie Get Your Gun Orange Park Community Theatre opct.info

AUG. 23

“Barbara Colaciello: Life on the Diagonal” BABS’ LAB barbaracolaciello.com

AUGUST 24-25

“MAME: The Broadway Musical” Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

AUGUST 24-25

“Paw Patrol” Moran Theater morantheatre.com

AUG. 28

“Sex n’ The City, A Super Unauthorized Musical Parody” Jacksonville Center for Performing Arts jaxevents.com

WE’RE DOOMED: HOW REALITY TV DATING SHOWS HOLD A MIRROR TO THE DARK SIDE OF DATING IN REALITY

The combination of reality TV and desperate singles searching for love is one of television’s guiltiest pleasures. What started as an innocent skit of matchmaking on a late night talk show in 1965 has turned into a mountain of dating shows for almost every situation imaginable, all with the same goal in mind: find true love. But what is it about this concept that we find so endearing, or better yet, captivating? And what does that say about the society it aims to reflect?

Reality TV is hardly new to the entertainment industry; it’s arguably one of the backbones to daytime television and the gateway drug to using media consumption as a form of escape. What’s so attractive about reality TV compared to soap operas or drama series is the humanity (or the lack thereof) found on the screen. Shows like “Survivor” and “Big Brother” really captured this newfound idea that you don’t have to be an actor to be entertaining, nor does a good show have to have the highest-quality production and special effects to secure high ratings. The rawness and transparency of reality TV allows viewers to step outside of their everyday life and be a part of this world of drama, sex and scandal all through a screen. If you’re a fan of reality TV or have ever indulged in even a season, you know that feeling of excitement and anticipation being immersed into their world as if you really are experiencing it with them. Dating shows have simply taken it to a different level of melodramatics.

It started off relatively tame in 2002 with shows like “The Bachelor” where one lucky man is presented with 20 or so women to fight for his love and ultimate engagement through petty dramas and jealousy-fueled schemes. Becoming an immediate hit, reality TV dating shows arrived on the cusp of changing the TV industry as we knew it. The next season would turn into “The Bachelorette,” giving a runner-up from the previous season a chance to find love. The cycle continued year after year, snowballing the franchise into one of the most recognizable dating shows to this day with 49 total seasons of “The Bachelor” and “ The Bachelorette.” They aired the spin-off, “Bachelor in Paradise” in 2013, putting former contestants on a remote island to mix, mingle and overcome inevitable drama in the quest for love. Then there’s shows like “Temptation Island,” first airing on Fox in 2001, where the loyalty and strength of “happy couples” were put to the test through lustful temptation.

The formula of “Temptation Island” would become a sort of blueprint for how a majority of today’s dating shows look, and there’s a lot of them. The most popular tropes circulating TV today are those that put a hodgepodge of single people on a beach and let the story write itself. Originating in the United Kingdom in 2005, “Love Island” has since expanded internationally, airing shows in the U.S. and Australia. The variation of today’s reality TV dating shows is almost overwhelming: some follow the more mainstream structure of hot people fighting and falling in love; some are based around blind dating to emphasize the importance of personality while simultaneously showcasing the depth of human superficiality; and some utilize a weird or shock factor like “Farmer Wants a Wife,” “Naked Attraction” and “Dated & Related.” I’m sure you can gather what those are about. The evolution of dating shows alone could be dissected as a twisted reflection of society, but I don’t have all day.

So why is there such a societal obsession with these dating shows? Sure, they’re entertaining and perhaps an escape into a world unlike your own, but is there more to it? Or are we simply zombies searching for brain-rotting content to fill a gaping hole? Probably, but theories around our attraction to this type of media revolve more around our traits as human beings.

We must first understand how the structure of these shows capture millions of attention in the first place. An article by “Cosmopolitan” explains that reality TV dating shows hit all the marks in what audiences look for in entertainment: the dramatization of soap operas, the competitiveness of game shows, the realness of reality TV and the fantasy of love and lust. Dating shows embody everything human beings innately desire — love, sex, gossip and drama. The article says that by combining elements of fiction and non-fiction in creating these dating shows, “our collective understanding of what’s real and what’s not is continuously blurred.”

Some experts also say that today’s reality TV dating shows contain somewhat of an overlap with our society’s history of love and marriage that makes it innately appealing to our pursuit for partnership. An article by the BBC on this same topic suggested that shows like “The Bachelor,” where 20+ individuals are pitted against each other to obtain one person’s love, are almost old-fashioned in a way. When you think about it in the context of the 1700s perhaps, when women needed to compete for marriage to secure social status and wealth, they had to prove themselves as suitable enough to be a wife. Clearly things have changed quite a bit by the time “The Bachelor” came around, but you can still see similarities in the underlying concept in some ways. We’ve somehow modernized misogyny into a form of entertainment, but at least we’re including the men now. So full circle!

There’s also the fact that we can become attached to dating show contes -

tants in the same way we might with other fictional characters. A parasocial relationship can be formed with people on a dating show, both negatively and positively. We feel heartbreak for the person or couple who gets broken apart by a “hot new bombshell that just entered the villa.” We may develop a one-sided hatred for a contestant as if they just killed a puppy on national television or perhaps internalize romantic feelings for someone on the other side of the screen. Dating shows, like fictional media, enable this side to human beings who long for connection, making us feel a little less alone throughout the episode.

In the same way we might build connections with dating show stars, we also build bonds with each other along the way. Friends, family, co-workers, strangers, it doesn’t matter — there’s no feeling quite like finding someone who shares the same passion and involvement in a show as you do, especially as the drama unfolds in real time. Finally getting to spill your thoughts and opinions about a certain person or situation with someone who actually understands is one of the best and most genuine ways to connect with someone. In such a divided time in our nation, it’s unifying to know we at least can come together to gab about the latest episode of “Love Island.”

Then there’s the fact that watching people fall in love is comforting, even if it’s not in the most natural way. When it comes down to it, most people yearn for true love — an intangible desperation we’ve been told is the key to happiness since childhood. Watching a dating show is hardly any different than a Disney fairytale, i.e., it’s not real. There certainly have been happy endings in dating show history, but it’s more often than not the couples that get engaged end up splitting shortly after. But it doesn’t really matter all that much anyway because people are watching for drama, jealousy, fights and turmoil. In reality TV, a happy ending is only an added bonus, not a requirement by any means.

Speaking of fairy tales, a vital ingredient to a good dating show is a seasonal villain. It’s that one person made out to seem like the worst person in the world, even if it’s just how they’re being edited to seem. On one hand, this drives ratings up and allows viewers to bond over their shared hate for someone (which always brings people together), but on the other hand, it’s a little messed up. There’s an unspoken acknowledgement that reality TV isn’t 100% reality 100% of the time. We all know how producers and directors can edit certain situations to fit the mold of what makes a good dating show — the level and quality of the drama that occurs. Sometimes the scripts write themselves and the villains and heroes are cast naturally, but when things become too quiet and therefore, boring, the plot needs shaking up.

Most people are well aware of who’s really pulling the strings behind the curtain, but that doesn’t stop viewers from developing a genuine distaste or hatred for particular contestants. Again, because it’s exciting to create and be involved in someone else’s drama. It’s only unfortunate for the person on the receiving end of the hate mail. This provokes another question surrounding dating shows: why in the world would anyone want to be on one?

It’s most likely a toss-up between who on the show is genuinely there to find a connection and life-long partner and those who decided watching it through a screen wasn’t fulfilling anymore and now need to be fully immersed. Aside from any personal motives one might have for being on a dating show, it might very well be that it’s simply something new to experience. An article by “Psychology Today” suggests that reality TV aims to challenge people’s security, both as an individual and as a potential couple. This type of environment is curated to resemble real-world dating in the sense that people date around, do questionable things and ultimately put themselves first in hopes

to find their partner. But in reality TV, that’s all being displayed right in front of you, which is a very unnatural and uncomfortable situation to put yourself in, but that’s the name of the game, which is exactly what it is: a game. Even if you win or lose, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience at best. Plus, when you’re a single, attractive 20-something, what do you have to lose, really?

We’ve established that the world of dating shows is ultimately a game to be played, but is it only a game? Or are there any consequences to consuming mass amounts of media depicting just how superficial, jealous and conniving our society is? Reality TV has its name for a reason — it shines a light on the part of reality that most people prefer to keep behind closed doors to the extent that the harshness and cruelty of our society is almost perfectly reflected on the screen. The chaos, belligerence and deceitfulness we see in reality TV is more than an entertaining show, but a third person point of view into society itself. Consider the show “Love Is Blind,” where contestants get to know each other without seeing their faces until the very end. Some end well, providing a heart-felt feeling that love does prevail. But others aren’t as successful, and superficiality replaces the initial connection made, confirming that love, in fact, is not blind.

When you consider why reality shows are packed with secrecy, heartbreak and drama, the actual reality of it is much more disturbing — because it’s holding a mirror to humanity. Sociologist Danielle Lindemann writes in her book “True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us,” “for all of its extreme personalities and outlandish premises, reality TV reflects how regressive we truly are.”

Dating shows reflect a part of history, but also a shift in today’s dating culture. With apps like Tinder and Hinge, we’re presented with a small synopsis of a person and judge them accordingly, sometimes in a matter of seconds. A whole genre of dating shows follow the same blueprint, contributing to the notion that people are disposable. Likewise, the ever-widening dating pool makes it seem as if options are endless when it comes to finding a life partner, but we all know that’s not exactly the case. The same goes for dating shows like “Love Island” and “Too Hot To Handle,” where a pool of singles come together, ready to mingle. But even then creating a genuine connection is still nearly impossible.

Considering that perspective, the consequences to constantly viewing such media are inflicted on both society and the individuals’ approach to seeking love. These shows hold a risk of normalizing toxic behaviors when it comes to dating, warping one’s expectation of what love should look like. Being constantly exposed to this form of media could potentially desensitize a person’s capacity to create boundaries and expectations in their own relationships if that line between what’s real and what’s not isn’t defined. That might be an extreme case, but there’s no denying that the media holds a level of influence on its audience, especially impressionable ones.

Reality TV, like all forms of entertainment, is a means of escapism at its core. Life can feel mundane and repetitive at times, but having something to look forward to at the end of the day can be genuinely helpful, even if it’s something as simple as a new episode. There’s excitement and a sense of community found in bonding over these shows with friends and total strangers, and the best part is that you’re completely detached from the actual drama, allowing you to sleep at night scot-free.

On a deeper level, these shows highlight what it means to be human and searching for love, highs and lows included, because love brings out the best

and worst of people, which is the human experience after all. We connect with dating shows because we can all see a little of ourselves in them at times — from relating to just how crazy love can make a person, to witnessing the dystopian, yet all too familiar reality found within the desperate conquest for love — proving that cameras or not, for better or for worse, we’re all the same at the end of the day.

© 2024 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 24-BDMKT-6351 KS 2/24 Will Shepard, MIB, AIF®, AAMS® Financial Advisor 245 Riverside Ave, Suite 500 Jacksonville, FL 32202 D 904.248.5438 O 04.858.4100 will.shepard@raymondjames.com raymondjames.com/shepardandshepard

COMEDY

AUG. 2

Chingo Bling

Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com

AUG. 2-3

First Coast Comedy

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

AUG. 4

Brandi Denise

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

AUG. 8

Sara Weinshenk

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

Comedy Night With River City Comedy

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

AUG. 9

Nick Di Paolo

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

AUG. 9-10

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

AUG. 9-11

Arnez J Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

AUG. 10

Comedy At the Collective Cultured Collective Brewing Co., Orange Park facebook.com/culturedcollectivefl

AUG. 14

Poker Face Comedy Show

Good Fellas Cigar Lounge eventbrite.com

AUG. 15-17

Colum Tyrell

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

AUG. 16

Barbara Carlyle

Town Hall Event Center, Fleming Island eventbrite.com

AUG. 16-17

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

AUG. 17

Don’t Tell Comedy Railyard District (that’s all we can tell you) donttellcomedy.com

AUG. 19

The Comedy and Soul Festival Hyatt Regency eventbrite.com

AUG. 23-24

Cipha Sounds Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

AUG. 26

“Brew Ha-Ha Improv Comedy” Blue Fire Theatre, Yulee bluefiretheatre.org

AUG. 29-31

Shuler King Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

AUG. 30-31

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

AUG. 31

Kurtis Conner

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

FUN STUDY SPOTS AROUND JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

After being in college for three years, I’ve had the opportunity to find great studying spots around Jacksonville that most don’t know about. These hidden gems are found all around Jacksonville, whether it is north or south, close to the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, St. Johns River State College or Florida State College Jacksonville there are so many options to choose from rather than being stuck in the same cycle and staying in your dorm or room studying.

Starting college came with a desire to do everything possible to have the best grades I could achieve. As time went by, my first time studying for a big exam as a freshman I had all the tools I needed to study but just needed a good study spot. I tried to rent a study room at the UNF library, but it was all booked up. I decided to meet up with other classmates around a hidden gem at UNF, THE BAMBOO GARDEN, located in between buildings 1 and 39A. This hidden spot is a great space for students, especially those who like the outdoors and studying with a little quietness and peace. This space helped me a lot during those long study afternoons when I needed to escape from the library and needed more natural light and a canopy of green overhead by being surrounded by all the great and serene nature and trees around UNF’s campus.

After having that experience of not finding a good quiet study place and wanting to get out and find a comfort zone for me to concentrate and study I came across cafes like THE GREENHOUSE BAR and HAPPY MEDIUM BOOKS CAFE. The Greenhouse Bar is a cafe and cocktail bar located in Riverside. What stuck out the most to me from this place was how well-organized everything was. This place is a coffee shop, plant shop, and bar. The plants help with calming students down during midterms or finals, while their drinks give you that sweetness and boost of energy you need. It was a very calming and peaceful experience to study at their location.

Only a few minutes away is HAPPY MEDIUM BOOKS CAFE. This cafe has a bookstore area, a cafe area, an area for adults to work and also a children’s area. Such a unique and different idea for their business since there aren’t that many that include areas for children who are growing into bookworms like their parents or babysitters. The best thing about both of these places is that they are close by and provide a peaceful yet productive experience.

If you live farther away from UNF and are trying to find something in the middle, THE URBAN BEAN COFFEEHOUSE is just the place for you. Their barn and modern style for their location in Orange Park is timeless. Their customer service was 10/10 for me since it was my first time visiting, they recommended a Lavender Iced Latte which surprisingly was better than expected. At this location, they open early and close late which is always a plus for college students so that we don’t have to stress about cramming everything together which leads to stress and not getting much work done. If you like studying indoors or outdoors this place offers both, which is always a great plus for a change of scenery.

To wrap up my list, I recently found these two spots close to my “Folio” internship. CHAMBLIN’S UPTOWN and URBAN GRIND COFFEE COMPANY were top picks for cafes and bookstores in Downtown Jacksonville. Chamblin’s Uptown unique vibe and spacious location help pick where you want to study or get creative. The bookshop also offers a coffee shop and a variety of locations to pick from for studying or reading, whether it is downstairs in the coffee shop area at the front of the bookstore or in between all the bookshelves filled with decades of books at little tables and chairs. Some of my personal favorite spots will always be in between the bookshelves. Chamblin’s Uptown is a hidden gem that provides peace and a lot of creative ideas at your fingertips. Lastly, Urban Grind Coffee Company is a contemporary and rustic coffeehouse that provides indoor and outdoor areas to study from and has a variety of breakfast, lunch, and drink options to choose from. If you’re like me, I always have to have my little snack with my coffee.

After letting you know all of my favorite study spots around Jacksonville, Now I’m going to let you in on a few tips I wish I had known at the beginning of my freshman year:

1. Put yourself out there, get out of your comfort zone, and make new friends. You won’t regret it when you look back on that semester before graduating and look at all the great people and experiences you have made over time.

2. Pick your classes early! I couldn’t stress this one enough. It sucks when you wait until 5 p.m. to pick your classes and all of the classes that go with your daily life are full. Trust me no one likes waking up at 7 a.m. to pick classes. In a related tip, check all your professors before signing up, like their class passing rates or student ratings. It will help you so much in the future.

3. Make those group chats with your classmates. Half the time all of you are confused about the assignments. Five minds working to figure something out is better than just one. Plus, half of the time the people you have in that class will probably be with you again next semester.

4. If you want a good table or study spot, I always recommend getting there early if you, especially, during midterms and finals when the cafes and libraries will most likely be full.

5. Don’t stress yourself out too much… and this is coming from someone who would overthink and stress everything about grades and school. Try your best. That’s all you can do at the end of the day.

The Lost Art of Being PRESENT

In today’s world, everyone has their smartphone in their hand or pocket, and if not that, they have a smart watch keeping them connected but oftentimes miss seeing the people who are directly in front of them. When was the last time you made eye contact with a person and saw them? Marina Abramovic, a performance artist, explores the idea of being present within the body and surroundings through her work.

In our fast paced, technology centered society, how can we be present? How can we make sure we are being seen and see others?

Abramovic founded “The Marina Abramovic Method” which focuses on a meditative state of being present with the concentration on breath, eye contact, groundedness and clearing the mind of all other distractions. In her 2010 performance at the Museum of Modern Art titled “The Artist is Present,” Abramovic sat in a chair and the observer was encouraged to sit across and be present in the moment. Abramovic would sit in silence and simply look and be present with the person in the chair across from her until the person chooses to get up and leave. To an outsider this could be perplexing, because what is she doing? What is the art piece ?

This performance sparked controversy by many people waiting hours before the museum opened for a chance to experience this performance art piece. Many thought it was pointless, because she is just sitting there, right? Some found the experience therapeutic, and even emotional. Many left in tears with a feeling of being seen for the first time. Those who experienced this art piece, highlighted the importance of being present and how often it is overlooked in our everyday society.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO TO BE MORE PRESENT IN OUR OWN LIVES?

The Marina Abramovic Method is described as the “purpose of teaching endurance, concentration, perception, self control, willpower, and confrontation of mental and physical limits.”

She has specific exercises in order to focus on being present with your body and surroundings.

One of the exercises consists of gathering a bag of uncooked rice and lentils and counting each grain and committing to it. The exercise is to test the person’s attention span, endurance and concentration. This task may seem mundane, but when was the last time you committed to doing something this tedious, that used your mind in this matter, without an instant reward?

Another exercise challenges the person to go outside and simply hug a tree and complain. Yes, literally hug a tree and speak aloud all of your grievances. This may seem strange, but it does bring a connectedness to nature in itself. Some have found that when they are in this physical state, they could not bring themselves to complain, realizing their problems are so minute and not worth the breath. “Turns out that hanging out with the trees makes my problems seem smaller, and not worth bothering the forest giants with” said one skeptic.

Another method of exercise in the Marina Abramovic Method is to get down on one’s hands and knees and clean the floors. This may seem strenuous, but it is purposeful. By getting on all fours, it allows the person to be able to see and feel every detail of the floor. Being intentional and careful with every stroke of a scrub and noticing things that may have been overlooked before.

With these exercises, it can help ease the mind of the grievances that swirl in the head, taking us out of the present moment. We can all learn to put the phone down, stop those distracting fleeting thoughts and embrace what is around us. Focus. Make eye contact. Breathe. And most importantly, be present.

THE ART CENTER COOPERATIVE

• “View From My Window,” through Sept. 14 tacjacksonville.org

BEACHES MUSEUM

• “Exalted Shores: The Work of Clint Burbridge and Tom Schifnella,” through Sept. 29 beachesmuseum.org

BUTTERFIELD GARAGE ART GALLERY butterfieldgarage.com

THE CORNER GALLERY AT THE JESSIE

• “Sarah Crooks: The Long Way(t) Home,” through Aug. 21 movingthemargins.org

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS

• “Jacksonville’s Norman Studios: Movie Posters from the Permanent Collection,” through Aug. 25

• “Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston,” through Sept. 29

• Works on Paper from the Cummer Museum’s Collection, through Sept. 30

• “Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri: Mysteries that Remain,” through Jan. 12, 2025 cummermuseum.org

FEMART GALLERY

• “A Beautiful Mind,” through Aug. 31 femartgallery.org

FIRST COAST CULTURAL CENTER

• Teresa Graham: “Day by Day: Abstract Collections,” Aug. 8-Sept. 19 firstcoastculturalcenter.org

GALLERY 725 gallery725.com

GOVERNOR’S HOUSE CULTURAL CENTER AND MUSEUM, ST. AUGUSTINE

• “Painting St. Augustine: Selections from the Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers Collection,” ongoing

• “Freedom Is Not Free: Ax Handle Saturday,” virtual exhibition staugustine.ufl.edu

HASKELL GALLERY AT JACKSONVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT jaxairportarts.com

HILLARY WHITAKER GALLERY hwhitakergallery.com

JACKSONVILLE MAIN LIBRARY

• “Pack Your Bags,” through Oct. 28 tacjacksonville.org

JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY

• ”Bill Davis: No Dark in Sight,” virtual exhibition

• “Kristin Skees: Close Knit,” virtual exhibition ju.edu/cfa

THE LIGHTNER MUSEUM

• “75 for 75: Lightner Museum Diamond Anniversary Exhibition,” ongoing

• “Illuminate: Lightner Museum’s Stained Glass Rediscovered,” ongoing

• “St. Augustine Through the Lens of William Henry Jackson,” ongoing lightnermuseum.org

MOCA JACKSONVILLE

• “Elysa Adams: Voices of Moncrief,” through Sept. 8

• “Project Atrium: Frank Stella,” through Nov. 3

• “Emil Alzamora: Starship Abundance,” through Feb. 2, 2025

• “Fill My Heart With Hope,” through March 23, 2025 mocajacksonville.unf.edu

PASTA FINE ART GALLERY pastagalleryart.com

RITZ THEATRE & MUSEUM

• “Coastlines,” through Sept. 6

• “Lift Ev’ry Voice,” permanent collection ritzjacksonville.com

SOUTHLIGHT GALLERY southlightgallery.com

ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION

• “History Through the Lens of the Artist,” through Aug. 25 staaa.org

STELLERS GALLERY stellersgallery.com

THRASHER-HORNE CENTER GALLERY

• Works by Thomas H. Nagata, Yamel Molerio and John Gerstner, ongoing thcenter.org

TOUCHÉ GALLERY touchegallery.com

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA

unf.edu/gallery

THE VAULT AT 330 thevaultat1930.com

YELLOW HOUSE

• “Thoughts From a Black Man,” through Aug. 17

• “Sit in Stand Up,” virtual exhibition

• “Still Not About a Hotdog and a Coke,” virtual exhibition

• “Magic, Mirth, and Mortality: Musings on Black Motherhood,” virtual exhibition yellowhouseart.org

ONGOING

ART WALK: AUG. 7

Downtown Jacksonville lights up the first Wednesday of the month with art by local artists at hubs in James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie and Vagabond Flea at VyStar Tower from 5–9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, street performers, free admission to MOCA and complimentary rides on JTA’s Skyway. dtjax.org

FERNANDINA

BEACH ARTS MARKET: AUG. 10 AND 24

Amelia Island’s premier arts and crafts market comes alive the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. fernandinabeachartsmarket.com

RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET: AUG. 3, 10, 17, 24 AND 31

Artists, artisans and makers display their original paintings, jewelry, photo graphs, prints and other handcrafted items every Saturday — rain or shine — from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Riverside Avenue underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. riversideartsmarket.com

ST. AUGUSTINE FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK: AUG. 3

On the first Friday of every month (hence the clever name), more than 30 galleries around the Oldest City open their doors from 5–9 p.m. for visitors to browse exhibits and interact with artists. A complimentary trolley service provides transportation between downtown venues. staaa.org

VILANO BEACH ARTISAN MARKET: AUG. 17

Part beach party, part arts market, this monthly event includes works by local artists and locally-made products, as well as live music. The market takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 4-8 p.m. on A1A and Vilano Road.

facebook.com/vilanobeachofficial

Untold Stories is a Florida Theatre experience, now available as a radio show & podcast.

Tune in Sundays at 7PM on WJCT News 89.9 or listen on demand.

In partnership with WJCT Public Media

This captivating live storytelling series offers a platform for Northeast Florida residents — artists, tradespeople, shopkeepers, and professors — to share their unique and inspiring experiences. Join us as we explore the vibrant tapestry of life in Northeast Florida, one story at a time.

ALLNEW SEASON AVAILABLE NOW

Bygone Jax tells some of the lesser known stories from our past.

In association with FSCJ

Dive into the captivating story of Kalem, the company that revolutionized the movie business in Jacksonville in 1908. From being crowned "The Winter Film Capital of the World" to producing groundbreaking Civil War films, uncover the rise and fall of Jacksonville’s early film industry.

JUST FOR KICKS

Driven through historic Springfield recently? You may have noticed a new 15-foot, soccer-themed mural. Located at 347 E. Eighth Street, the mural promoted Goals Jax, a pop-up that hosted and showed all 80 Copa American and UEFA Euro soccer matches — in 30 days. The pop-up, created in collaboration with Riverside United Soccer Club, shared a goal with bringing more people into the world of soccer and the Jacksonville community.

The mural was created by local photographer Ally Brody and muralist Jason Tetlak and features actual players from Jacksonville’s Riverside United Soccer Club (with photos shot by Brody with the enlarged images wheatpasted onto the wall). Brody was especially excited about the project as it was the first time her work appeared as street art. And she wasn’t the only one thrilled about the project.

“The community was very excited for this mural,” Brody said. “We would get people stopping by and honking while they were working on it.” She added how much she felt supported in this new endeavor and welcomed by the neighborhood.

While the vibrantly colored, larger than life 15foot mural is the main attention grabber, there is a smaller mural on the side of the building on Eighth and Walnut streets. This second piece is in black and white accented with a yellow border. Because the murals are made of photos instead of paint alone, she said, it makes the murals more realistic, Brody said, but they are more susceptible to damage from wind and rain than traditional painted murals.

Though the pop-up has closed up shop, the artwork that brought it to life remains. Brody had such a positive experience in seeing it come to life she said she would like to do more mural with local artists on a similar scale. She’d also like to see more local artists collaborating with photographers to create art like hers and Tetlak’s.

In the meantime, you can find more of Brody’s work at allybrody.com and Tetlak’s work at art.tetlak.com.

MY TAKE ON TRENDY VS. TIMELESS

The trends in American pop culture are cycled through as quickly as the trains on a track. They come and they go, sometimes you miss one, sometimes you get on the wrong one, sometimes you stay on one for too long until you’re dropped off, left stranded and confused as to how you got there. The same goes for micro-trends that pop up just as quickly as they disappear. If you don’t hop on the fad early enough, you will have missed the train. But don’t worry, another one is always coming.

Some trends come back years later, for better or for worse, while some soak in their 15 minutes of fame until they’re laid to rest forever, leaving their mark in the form of an awkward or embarrassing time period in people’s lives. Don’t get me wrong, participating in trends is a harmless, yet exciting way to navigate a new sense of style to see if it sticks, but typically it’s labeled a trend for the reason that it won’t be around forever. What’s interesting about trends is that it’s hard to see them as such until they’re gone, but for those that come back around or stay in the limelight continuously are considered timeless, something that might be even harder to identify because of their inconspicuousness. But when these cycles of fashion, fads and facades are left pondered on, it’s actually quite simple to spot and predict their lifespan.

As a forewarning for those that struggle with media literacy, these are all my opinions and perspectives. Some are rooted in a historical perspective and some are not. Trends, like personal taste, are subjective and we’re all entitled to our own preferences. I have been a personal victim to bad trends, some that I still indulge in, so it’s really not that serious. These are simply my personal takes on what is trendy versus timeless. Glad we got that out of the way.

FASHION: A good outfit is less about what you’re wearing than how you’re wearing it.

Fashion cycles are the most common trends we see because of the nuances in artistic innovation, the complexity in style choices, the gravitational pull toward overconsumption and the desire to constantly present ourselves in impressionable ways. In my criteria for determining whether something is trendy or timeless, I ask myself a few questions: Would I have worn or liked this last year? Will I like or want to wear this next year? If I look back on this in 10 years, will I admire it, be neutral or be embarrassed about it? There are a million fashion trends to dissect, but I’ll focus on the most recent and significant.

The first being one we all have worn or or continue to wear that I have a personal vendetta against: ripped jeans. Unfortunately, I think grandpa was onto something when he said, “I hope you paid half-price for those half-pair of jeans.” To me, they just look messy and disheveled. Even if that’s the point, it doesn’t make for a timeless look. Some go so far as to look like a mountain lion just went to town on a pair of jeans and then threw it onto a clothing rack. I especially despise ones with distressed holes and fringes that hang down like a half-finished sewing project. This grungy look only appears as distracting and frankly, it’s a hot mess. I can make an exception for jeans with small holes at the knees, maybe. Hell, wear skinny jeans before a pair that’s all torn up (both equally horrifying). But really, a pair of jeans should be a staple piece used to elevate or relax an outfit, not be the entire show.

On that same note, loud patterns are trendy. I’m talking about the butterflies, checkered and chevron designs, tacky animal print … and don’t get me started on bedazzlement. Any sort of pattern that announces itself to a room before you get the chance to does too much for me. The problem with these patterns, like jeans with holes, is that they become the eye-piece for the outfit and call it a “look.” But in reality, it just makes your appearance incohesive.

It’s a trendy piece because it doesn’t go with anything besides itself, making it less of a staple and more of an unnecessary accessory.

I will say that floral and animal prints can be tricky; there is a certain art to it that must be carefully crafted. Some floral prints, especially in dresses and skirts, can be timeless and elegant if they’re not taking away from the outfit as a whole, or too loud that it becomes tacky. Likewise, animal print should be used as a tool and an accessory to further elevate an already put-together outfit. There are ways to incorporate certain patterns in an intentional way, like adding texture or layers to more monochromatic looks.

This might be a hot topic, and I very well may regret saying this, but I think LuluLemon is trendy. Athleisure, as a whole, is already mostly unique to American fashion, and I don’t think that style choice will go out anytime soon, but LuluLemon has become the Louis Vuitton of athletic wear for no major reason besides societal craze. Sure, their products are mostly high quality and relatively fashionable, but when the appearance of a brand becomes the entire premise around someone’s choice to wear it, it’s hard to tread the line between being universally timeless and superficially trendy. LuluLemon has done a great job, however. It managed to rebrand the notorious fanny pack trend into what they coined as the Everywhere Belt Bag, that I, included, wear everywhere and everyday. It made the fanny pack modern and chic, but take it from someone who has spent the last two years attached to the belt bag: I don’t imagine I’ll be reaching for it again in a few years. By no means am I saying LuluLemon is ugly or even a bad franchise, but once you take it outside of the gym and exercise context, I think the brand itself could become too overdone that it may eventually turn cheugy.

My first timeless trend is one I know will enrage most of you, but hear me out: navy blue and black. Since I first learned how to put an outfit together, I was taught that under no circumstances should navy blue and black be put together. It wasn’t until recently I decided to try it out with a long black skirt and a navy blue silk tank top with black trimming. Guess what? It works. This almost feels timeless to me based on how frowned upon it is because as we all know, people love what they can’t have. I’m really not sure when or who pushed the anti-navy-blue-and-black agenda down our throats, but they were wrong. There are definitely ways to mess this up, so I’m not saying it’s allaround acceptable, but it can be when the concept is executed well. Similarly, though perhaps less controversially, this also goes for white and beige. A man in linen khaki pants with a beach-vibe collared white shirt will forever be classy. Texture and shape is crucial for both color combinations, but when it’s done right, there’s nothing quite like it.

Speaking of monochrome, let’s talk about nail polish. Don’t get me wrong, I love an intricate nail design that shows a specialized attention to a detailed theme as much as the next girl, but I fear it’s trendy. The designs themselves can be truly beautiful and I do respect them as an art form, but from a bigger picture standpoint, a normal-length and solid color manicure is timeless to me. However, I’m not talking about just any color, and this goes back to the loudness I mentioned earlier. Timeless nail colors are ones that you will never get sick of looking at: red, navy blue, white, French manicure, coffee brown or nude. I would also consider pale-toned colors to be timeless, like with yellow, blue and pink. I of course don’t mean that you shouldn’t have fun with how you do your nails or that thematic designs are ugly in any way — it’s just not necessarily a timeless vision.

A trend that has come and gone over the years, subtly changing style and shape each time, is maxi skirts and dresses.

There was once a period where tight maxi skirts were all the rage, which we’ve seen fizzle out only to return in the form of flowy maxi skirts. Likewise, maxi dresses have evolved in style but have remained as a staple outfit choice. Like most things with fashion, there are right and wrong ways to execute a maxi dress and skirt, but the adaptation of each proves its timelessness. Modest dressing in general is timeless, and we’ve seen it prevail and evolve in the everyday fashion world. But it doesn’t have to mean wearing clothes to “cover up” or to hide yourself. It’s more about letting the clothing pieces become the outfit instead of the body wearing it.

Early 2000s fashion was the era of the torso — wearing low-waisted bottoms and a bra disguised as a top. Love the idea, really, but the low-waisted look eventually came to a fall, just to slowly rise again in recent years in a much more niche way (thank God because I don’t have the hips to pull that one off). Now, I’m a firm believer that we’re all entitled to shake what our mama’s gave us, but ultimately, when I look back on my style in 10 years, I can imagine I might be more self-satisfied and pleased with the outfits I wore for their reserved elegance and creativity. At the same time, I’ll probably be longingly admiring my youthful body and still be proud that I wore what I wanted when I wanted. All things considered, there’s no right way to dress while you’re young because you’re still figuring out your style, and odds are you’re going to be embarrassed no matter what — that’s just the circle of life.

LIFESTYLE & DECOR: Less is more.

Can we pretty please make word art punishable by law? Inspirational quotes should live in your diary or Pinterest board, not in your kitchen to publicly announce that, “In this home, we cook with love.” No… that’s Hamburger Helper. Word art decorations had their time, but it’s time to move on. I find this trendy because it’s only distracting attention away from the home itself and adds nothing more than a cliche on a wall. This perspective can be translated to the innocuous, yet equally disturbing concept that everything in your home must be labeled. I don’t know what Rae Dunn had to do to have such a chokehold over every suburban household in 2010, but it couldn’t have been good.

Rae Dunn, for those who don’t know, is a home-decor brand notoriously known for its labeling of everyday household products in a very specific font that looks tall and skinny, seemingly aiming for a “minimalistic” approach. For example, a Rae Dunn-styled mug would have the word “mug” on it as if it were anything else, or a set of pots and pans would be labeled with words like, “tasty, boil, cook, yum.” It was fun and quirky for its time, but using anything with words or labels as decoration is going to be outdated if it isn’t already.

Another trend that I think will phase out soon enough is putting stickers on everything. I will be the first to admit that I: a) have certainly experienced a phase where I did this to anything that would hold a sticker, and b) still have water bottles vandalized by this sticker-frenzy-phenomenon. It’s a harmless way to add a little spunk to personal belongings (harmless to everyone except the items themselves), but when it comes to adding personal touches or wanting to decorate a seemingly boring item or space, less is more.

Moving on, thrifting clothes, accessories and decor will always be timeless, and given that, I think the grandma-core aesthetic will never be outdated. A grandma-core aesthetic means having personal touches and trinkets scattered around, unique mugs and glassware from past trips and pictures on the wall with their own background stories. Not everything has to match perfectly or at all for that matter.

It can look a bit wacky while being cohesive when you take a step away. Colors and patterns can be played with in every room of the home, especially if these personal touches are meaningful to times in your life. But the most important part is that everything has a place. We tend to modernize and minimize many areas of culture, including our homes in order to appear neat and tidy, but that’s not always sustainable or visually inviting. The same could be said for maximization and over-the-top pieces of decor like the viral strawberry stool, hanging tapestries everywhere and quite literally everything from Five Below. Eventually, those products and concepts get replaced with another trend and before you know it, you’re a slave to capitalism.

Though the grandma-core aesthetic certainly isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it’s still a look that can be young and fresh while maintaining an old-timey, simplistic feel to it. When decorating a home, the goal should be to appear clean and relatively de-cluttered, but it should also feel like someone actually lives there. There’s nothing more eerie and off-putting than being in a home that feels like it’s about to be presented for an open house — homes should have an inviting personality that gives guests a glimpse into its owner.

My final assertion is a double-edged sword: reusable water bottles. On one hand, the collection of water bottles as if they’re infinity stones is undoubtedly trendy. Since the introduction of Stanley cups became everyone’s sudden obsession, overconsumption was kicked up a notch in the most ironic way. People became enthralled by having a Stanley cup, which, at first, might have seemed like a good thing — people are finally seeing the value in reducing plastic consumption, yay! But, being Americans, it didn’t stop there, and the next thing you know full-grown adults are elbowing each other in a Target to get their hands on the latest Stanley cup to add to their growing collection. Other reusable water bottle brands entered the scene and now it’s become a daily struggle of “which water bottle do I want to use today?” Consumer greed at its finest.

On the other hand, the concept itself of reusable water bottles is timeless. I don’t think we’ll ever revert to carrying plastic water bottles everywhere when the alternative is so abundant. It’s even become almost shameful to still be using plastic bottles on a daily basis, save for the assumption you have access to clean drinking water. In general, reusable bottles are timeless because of their convenience and necessity, but even despite the consumerism craze of Stanley cups, I think those will also prove to be timeless out of functionality and appearance. Overall, however, the obsession over collecting a cabinet full of different water bottles will eventually fade out when people come to realize the absurdity and irony in what they’re doing…. hopefully. When the next trend is presented to you via social media, try to seriously consider whether it’s worth hopping on that train. Will it bring you to the land of excessive consumerism, or will you be able to navigate the experience with minimal environmental harm?

In all truthfulness, what’s really timeless is owning your style — despite what’s popular in pop culture. The whole point of going through trends is about finding what works for you, even if it doesn’t last into the next year. Every generation has its own version of embarrassing trends and fashion statements, and that’s exactly what gives each decade its own identity. In 20 years or so, we’ll be able to look back and see what trends signify and separate the 2020s from the others. Some will be cringy and laughable; some will stand out for being significant for their time, but only some will remain, passing the test of timelessness.

THE STROKE OF LOVE:

Art has no bounds as it soars through the atmosphere with the ability to touch the souls of those who hold the paintbrush and those who bear witness to the imagination of the virtuoso.

SHAKO

The selection of a chosen medium that allows artists the ability to transfer their heart onto the blank canvas is gratifying yet vast. Symone, best known as “Shako,” chooses to express herself using the watercolor painting technique.

“The way it blends and layers together is so beautiful,” Shako conveyed as she chatted about her career as an artist in the city of Jacksonville.

As an artist born out of passion and curiosity her abilities have surpassed paint strokes on stark white paper to the handling of a tattoo gun engraving personalized stories into the skin of a client.

Growing up reading comic books, Shako felt inspired. Seeing the sequential art planted the seed of inspiration inside of her as a kid. The desire to create her own comic book was the revelation needed to set her on her journey.

Decades later, Shako has found her style as an artist. Her muse often being herself.

“My inspiration comes from the feelings I have, usually if I’m in love or have a crush or I’ve gotten my heart broken. That’ll inspire a new piece,”she shared.

Her painting “Dancing With Death” is just one example of a piece that represents the vulnerability of falling in love.

It is also Shako’s favorite piece at the moment and the first of many in a series she is currently working on.

Shako is premeditated in her processes — from the initial sketch to the final detail that ties the finished product together. With displayed intentions always serving a greater purpose such as her desire to connect with women in particular and “make people feel heard, seen, and loved,” her art exhibits just that through the unalloyed intensity she transfers to observers.

Love is a shared experience throughout human existence. and whether your dance with the emotion has been good, bad, or indifferent, Shako takes the time to create pieces that allow you to relate or sympathize.

As Shako continues to work on her current series, she doesn’t lack support from the local art community. With support from her mutuals, friends, and even strangers who stumble upon her art at showcases, it has been nothing but needed encouragement to persist in her craft.

When asked about where she sees herself in five to 10 years in the future, she shared a number of aspirations, revisiting that childhood dream of creating her own comic series — and a truly full-circle moment.

To keep up with Shako and her art you can follow her on Instagram: @ babyshako

NEW MUSIC RELEASES

Made For You By

An angel that has descended from the heavens. That is Moses Sumney.

As a long-time fan, Sumney never ceases to amaze me, and if you take only one recommendation from this list, please use whatever streaming platform you have on hand to engulf yourself into the world of Moses Sumney.

His album, “Sophcore,” is anticipated to be everything and more

Rapper Big Sean has announced the release of his album “Better Me Than You.” and it comes after a whopping four-year hiatus that has left fans geared up to hear what the Santa Monica native has been writing on his break.

The birth of his son Noah with R&B songstress Jhené Aiko could contribute as a big inspiration in his latest project.

The North Carolina native, Mavi has announced his LP, Shadow Box that will be hitting ears this August. After my recent discovery of the rapper, he has continued to capture my attention with his unique flow and production.

If you fancy the artist Earl Sweatshirt, Mavi’s sound may just be your cup of tea

“SOPHCORE”
MOSES SUMNEY
BIG SEAN
“BETTER ME THAN YOU”
“SHADOW BOX”
MAVI

With the recent co-sign from reality TV show star Robert “Rob” Rausch on “Love Island,” it can be expected that the Australian singer will be receiving a ton of new listeners.

My devotion to beabadobee has been sturdy through years of loyalty to her angelic sound and craft.

B.o.B had the world in a chokehold with his hit songs, “Airplanes” featuring Paramore’s lead singer Hayley Williams and “Nothing on You” featuring Bruno Mars. These two songs alone began a new wave at the start of a new decade. 2010 was truly a time and you just had to be there.

The rapper has now made his return with his latest album, Space Time.

Foster the People has continued its success in making music that works. Works well in various situations, settings and places in time. Ever so, timeless yet still present.

The band will be releasing their next album, “Paradise State of Mind.”

“PARADISE STATE OF MIND”

FOSTER THE PEOPLE

If you’re anywhere near TikTok or Instagram reels you have surely been plagued with this snippet from the song “Nasty” by artist Tinashe.

The single has garnered much popularity and will be accompanied by the singer’s next album, “Quantum Baby.”

B.O.B
“SPACE TIME”
BEABADOBEE
“SHORT

SABRINA CARPENTER

Sabrina Carpenter has been granted pop star status with her back-to-back hits such as “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.”

Buzz has grown louder as fans anticipate her album, “Short n’ Sweet.”

The former reality TV show “The Rap Game” thrust young rapper Latto into the spotlight at just 16 years old where she was expected to prove her skills as a rapper through writing and MCing. Her efforts paid off as she won the first season of the show and now at the age of 25, she has continued to win awards and create her own lane in female rap.

With an edgy grit to her sound while not shying away from pop beats and catchy bridges, Latto’s newest album can be expected to show love for her Atlanta heritage and culture while still exploring the variety of sounds she can grasp as a burgeoning artist.

N’ SWEET”
Beau of Rhianna and an artist in his own right, ASAP Rocky will release his fourth studio album, “Don’t Be Dumb,” with features from artists such as Playboi Carti, Pharrell, Westside Gunn and more.

WHAT WE KNOW … ABOUT THE TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB CONCERT

It has been a long time coming — 17 years to be exact — and it was well worth the wait. Two Door Cinema Club finally made their way from Northern Ireland to the Sunshine State during their U.S. and Canada 2024 tour — and with none other than Jacksonville’s very own Flipturn.

At “Folio,” we’re well-versed in Flipturn’s incredible showmanship, so we arrived ready in our dancing boots. The night began with a thrilling performance of our favorite song, “Sad Disco,” perfectly setting the tone for the evening. Any concertgoers who weren’t fans before were undoubtedly converted. Flipturn has a knack for captivating the audience, seamlessly transitioning from mellow tracks like “Space Cowboy” to fan favorites like “August.” It was hard to believe they were only the openers.

Having formed in Jacksonville, the audience already had a deep connection with the band and they knew it too — throwing in a few “DUUUVAL” chants here and there between songs.

Lead vocalist and guitarist Dillon Basse commands the stage with the presence of someone born to perform, creating a captivating synergy that brings his band members together in perfect harmony. His natural charisma and energy resonate through every song leaving the crowd begging for more. The band seamlessly fuses the eclectic and vibrant tones of indie music with the timeless essence of classic rock — a perfect appetizer for the much-anticipated main course.

Two Door Cinema Club finally answered our missed calls and decided we needed to meet face-to-face. They even captioned their most recent post with what feels like a love letter to the neglected state: “So many firsts so far on this tour… Miami, Jacksonville, and next up, Asheville! We’ve had so many beautiful first dates; there’s a gorgeous romance blooming.” It was as if Jacksonville was the shy, overlooked partner in a

Words by Ambar Ramirez & Carmen Macri
Photos by Seth Ledger

love story, finally getting its moment to shine. And what better place to have the perfect first date than at Daily’s Place? The band’s energy was infectious, and the crowd’s enthusiasm made it clear that this first date was something special. Jacksonville had been waiting for this moment, and it turned out to be worth the wait.

When Two Door Cinema Club first took the stage in 2007, they were known as Life Without Rory, likely a nod to one of the many school crushes that come with being 16. Life Without Rory released three demos before disbanding. Shortly after, vocalist and guitarist Alex Trimble, lead guitarist Sam Halliday and bassist Kevin Baird formed a new band—Two Door Cinema Club, inspired by Halliday’s mispronunciation of a local cinema, Tudor Cinema. And the rest was history.

When the band released their first studio-produced album “Tourist History,” which included hits like “What You Know” and “Undercover Martyn,” it was clear that the band was here to stay.

The connection was immediate, and a new chapter in this musical romance began. Except we already know everything about the Northern Ireland band and wasted no time on “getting to know each other.” The show started with a song from their 2010 “Tourist History” album— “This Is the Life” quickly followed by another smash hit “I Can Talk” off the same record.

The millennial band seamlessly weaved between recent and classic tracks, making sure that the crowd had no chance to slow down and stop dancing. Some of the latest tracks performed included songs from their 2022 “Keep On Smiling” Album. You know the saying, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it — the band took that personally. With their newer tracks “Wonderful Life” and “Messenger AD (intro)” they perfectly blend the nostalgic sounds of their signature synth-pop with refreshed lyrics, paying homage to the fans who grew up with them while also inviting a newer generation to the party.

It is important to note that while Two Door Cinema Club could very well classify as a millennial band, they have not pigeonholed themselves yet. The crowd at Daily’s Place was equally filled with gen-Zers (ourselves included) singing and dancing (and screaming) right along.

The band truly knows how to deliver an unforgettable performance, keeping the crowd captivated and on the edge of their seats. As with any great act, Two Door Cinema Club reserved their best tracks for the final moments. To be honest, after igniting the iconic two-clap intro of “Undercover Martyn,” nothing else seemed to matter. The people around us faded into the background, and it felt like the entire arena shared our sense of euphoria. Like that moment in every true rom-com when the two main characters finally kiss — the lights fade and all the extras disappear.

Unfortunately, the moment only lasted for two minutes and 47 seconds because once the opening riff of “Cigarettes in the Theatre” graced our ears, we were back to singing and dancing (and screaming). So much so that we hardly realized that the set was coming to a close. We were far too immersed in the nostalgic sounds of our childhoods — though, even for newcomers, the band still has a knack for exuding a sense of sentimentality with their music.

It took one note, one guitar riff, and the lyrics “In a few weeks,” for the audience to go wild. And that’s when we realized what was right before our eyes (pun intended) — “What You Know.” The perfect ending to a perfect first date and the perfect ending to our concert review.

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CONCERTS

AUG. 1

Dirty Heads & Slightly Stoopid Daily’s Place dailysplace.com

AUG. 2

Straight No Chaser Summer with special guests Chris Kirkpatrick & O-Town St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

The Magic of Motown Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

AUG. 3

Switchfoot | Blue October | Matt Nathanson St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Out of Darkness | ZHUG Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 4

First Coast Showcase Sunday Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Unlimited Devotion Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

AUG. 5

Spaced Underbelly underbellyjax.com

AUG. 7

Christopher Cross Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Alesane Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 8

Hawthorne Heights St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Belmont Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

9

St. Augustine Amphitheatre–Backyard Stage theamp.com

AUG. 10

UB40 with special guests The English Beat and Maxi Priest St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Tori Nance Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

AUG. 11

Slash: S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

We the Kings Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 15

Bold City Classics Big Band Casa Marina 904tix.com

Ace Monroe Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SL#T P@P

Ocean Street Tequila Bar oceanstreettacos.com

AUG. 16

Maren Morris with special guest Anna Graves Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Lauren Woodall Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

AUG. 17

311 St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

The Chi-Lites

Jacksonville Center for Performing Arts jaxevents.com

The Ultimate Elvis Celebration

Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

John Cruz

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Companied Chaos | Heavy on the Heart

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 18

That Girl Lay Lay Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Trash Panda

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Gable Price and Friends Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Paul McCoy with Scott Barlett Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

Struggle Jennings Underbelly underbellyjax.com

AUG. 23

Caitlin Mahoney Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Scott H. Biram Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 23-24

In the Round With Davis Loose, Ethan Phillips & Justin Dukes

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

AUG. 24

Joshua Bowlus Quartet

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Yosemite in Black

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 25

Kyran Daniel

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

AUG. 26

Charley Crockett

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Shonali | Bad Madonna

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

AUG. 27

Heavy Temple

Underbelly underbellyjax.com

AUG. 29

Crowded House

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Slippery Rick

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Cassie & Maggie

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

AUG. 30

The Lee Boys

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

AUG. 31

Leela James Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Buffalo Nichols

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Pylon Reenactment Society

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Ultimate Floyd Tribute

Underbelly underbellyjax.com

YOUR CONCERT ETIQUETTE GUIDE

With the summer concert season in full swing, it is time to go over some concert etiquette. So many big names are announcing tours right now and whether you’re a live music regular or this is your first show, here is a little refresher to make the most of your concert experience.

One of the most important things to remember is that there will be hundreds, if not thousands of other people at these shows, and while you want to have the time of your life, be considerate of those around you. No one wants to be that obnoxious fangirl who won’t stop screaming or the one holding up a giant sign, blocking the view. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind at your next concert:

HAVE YOUR TICKETS DOWNLOADED AND READY TO GO AT THE GATE. Getting into a large venue is already stressful enough so having your tickets ready can make it a lot smoother.

STAY HYDRATED. It has been brutally hot this summer and you do not want to be that person passing out in the crowd. Drink lots of water beforehand and unfortunately be willing to spend $8 on a water bottle at the venue.

BE PRESENT. It is very easy to want to record the entire show on your phone but how many times have you actually looked back on past concert videos? Take a few short videos of your favorite songs and spend the rest of the time fully immersed in the music. Also, the people behind also don’t want to stare at your phone.

READ VENUE RULES BEFOREHAND. Some venues have stricter rules than others when it comes to bag policies and signs. Bring only what you need: keys, wallet, phone, and tickets. If you’re going to bring a sign, make it reasonably sized.

CONSIDER THOSE AROUND YOU. People spend lots of money on concerts and the last thing they want is it to be ruined by someone else. Keep in mind to respect the space of others and don’t go over the top with screaming the lyrics. It’s a very exciting time but you wouldn’t want someone ruining it for you. Be friendly and offer to take pictures for the people next to you, and you might be able to get that in return.

RESPECT THE PERFORMER. There have been too many videos surfacing the internet of fans throwing things at an artist on stage. This shouldn’t really be a topic of discussion, but I digress. The artist is human too and they might make some mistakes. Be respectful of all the time and energy they have put into touring.

Don’t stress though, concerts are one of those special experiences that bring many people together over a shared interest. So whether you are going to a sold out stadium or a local Jacksonville venue, keep in mind these few tips to make the most of your concert. Have fun, make friends and be safe.

Cajun Crab Juice Seafood & Bar Jax cajuncrabjax.com

Cliff’s Bar & Grill cliffsbarandgrill.com

El Fogón de Munchies facebook.com/elfogonMunchiesBoricuas

Fancy Sushi & Grill Japanese Restaurant fancysushiandgrill.com

Fuji Sushi fujisushi-fl.com

The Good Place Nutrition facebook.com/thegoodplacenutrition

ABBQ abbqmeatdrink.com

Anejo anejococinamexicana.com

Angie’s Subs facebook.com/angiessubs

Aqua Grill aquagrill.net

Azurea at One Ocean azurearestaurant.com

Barbara Jean’s on the Water barbarajeansonthewater.com

Caffe Andiamo caffeandiamo.com

Cantina Louie cantinalouie.com

Coop 303 coop303.com

Eleven South elevensouth.com

Engine 15 Brewing Company engine15.com

European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com

The Fish Company Restaurant and Oyster Bar thefishcojax.com

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar flyingiguana.com

The G.O.A.T. Tapas & Bar thegoatjax.com

Grinders American Diner grindersamdiner.com

Lauren’s Jazz, Blues & Seafood facebook.com/laurensseafoodbluesjazz

La Palmerita orderlapalmerita.com

Pupuseria El Paraíso pupuseriaelparaisojax.com

Rice + Noodles Korean Restaurant riceandnoodles.net

Seven Wonders Restaurant 7wondersbakery.com

GROM

facebook.com/Grom904

Hawkers eathawkers.com

JJ’s Liberty Bistro jjbistro.com/ponte-vedra

Kamiya 86 kamiya86fl.com

Lone Wolf Co. lonewolfjax.com

Marker 32 marker32.com

Mezzaluna mezzalunajax.com

Mojo Kitchen mojobbq.com/mojo-kitchen

Nona Blue Modern Tavern nonablue.com

North Beach Fish Camp thenorthbeachfishcamp.com

Oaxaca Club theoaxacaclub.com

O-Ku o-kusushi.com

Palm Valley Fish Camp palmvalleyfishcamp.com

Poe’s Tavern poestavern.com

Ragtime Tavern ragtimetavern.com

Southern Coast Seafood southerncoastseafood.com

Tabouleh Cafe taboulehcafe.com

Thai & Lao Bistro thaiandlaobistro.com

Zen Dumpling zendumplings.com

Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant safeharbor-seafood.com

Salt Life Food Shack saltlifefoodshack.com

Salumeria 104 Atlantic Beach salumeria104.com

Singleton’s Seafood Shack singletonsseafood.com

Sliders Oyster Bar slidersoysterbar.com

Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com

TacoLu tacolu.com

Talkin’ Tacos talkintacos.net

Two Dudes Seafood Restaurant twodudesrestaurant.com

Valley Smoke BBQ valleysmoke.com

Vicious Biscuit viciousbiscuit.com

Bellweather bellwetherjax.com

The Bread and Board thebreadandboard.com

The Brick Coffee House brickcoffeehouse.com

Burrito Gallery burritogallery.com

Cowford Chophouse cowfordchophouse.com

Casa Dora Italian Cafe facebook.com/casadorajax

De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe

Bella Vista bellavistaitalian.com

Berndt Ends BBQ facebook.com/berndtendsbbq

Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro bluebamboojacksonville.com

ChopHouse Thirteen chophouse13.com

Enza’s Italian Restaurant enzas.net

ISO ISO Ramen isoisoramen.com

Julington Creek Fish Camp julingtoncreekfishcamp.com

Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken boldbirdshotchicken.com

Buchner’s Bierhall buchnersbierhalle.com

The Butt Hutt Smokehouse butthuttjax.com

Chancho King chanchoking.com

The Dreamette dreametteicecream.com

Estrella Cocina estrellajax.com

The Happy Grilled Cheese thehappygrilledchees.wixsite.com/grilledcheese

Indochine indochinejax.com

Juliette’s Bistro at Marriott Jacksonville Downtown marriott.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse mortons.com

Ocean Street Tacos oceanstreettacos.com

Kazu Japanese Restaurant kazujapaneserestaurant.com

Le Petit Paris French Cafe lepetitparisjax.com

Mandola’s Italian Kitchen mandolas.com

Masala Indian Cuisine jaxmasala.com

Nudo Vietnam Cuisine nudoinjax.com

One Night Taco Stand onenightjax.com

Picasso’s Pizzeria jaxpicassos.wixsite.com/jaxpicassos

El Jefe Tex Mex eljefejax.com

Fired Up Pizza woodfireduppizza.com

La Cena Ristorante No website. Google it!

Maple Street Biscuit Company maplestreetbiscuits.com/murray-hill

Moon River Pizza moonriverpizza.net

On The Fly Sandwiches & Stuff (food truck) ontheflyjax.com

The River Club jaxriverclub.com

Spliff’s Gastropub spliffsgastropub.com

Super Food & Brew superfoodandbrew.com

Sweet Pete’s sweetpetescandy.com

Tavern at the Hyatt Regency hyatt.com

Rosy’s Restaurant rosys-restaurant.business.site

Salento Steakhouse salentosteakhouse.com

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe tazikis.com

Umami Japanese Curry & Ramen umamijax.com

Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com

Murray Hillbilly murrayhillbilly.com

Solazo Taqueria solazofl.business.site

The Stout Snug thestoutsnug.com

Vagabond Coffee Co. vagabondcoffee.com

The Walrus thewalrusjax.com

Aloha Waffle Bar alohawafflebar.com

Celestia’s Coastal Cuisine celestiascoastalcuisine.com

Epik epikeats.com

Fuji Yama fujiyamajax.com

Galaxy Burger galaxyburgersjax.com

13 Gypsies 13gypsies.com

904 Tacos facebook.com/904tacosfivepoints

Ale Pie House alepiehousefl.com

Arepa Please arepaplease.com

Bagel Love bagel-love.ueniweb.com

Biggie’s Pizza biggiespizzajax.com

Biscottis biscottis.net

The Blue Fish Restaurant & Oyster Bar bluefishjax.com

Blue Buddha bluebuddhaspecialty.com

Blue Orchid Thai Cuisine blueorchidthai.com

Bold Bean boldbeancoffee.com

Brew Five Points brewfivepoints.co

Carolina Jax carolinajax.com

Carmines Pie House carminespiehouse.com

Cool Moose Cafe coolmoosecafe.net

Green Papaya Pan Asian Cuisine greenpapayaus.com

Joseph’s Pizza josephspizza.com/northside-full-menu

The Jungle Bowl facebook.com/thejunglebowl

Junior’s Seafood Restaurant juniorsseafoodrestaurant.com/north-jacksonville

Masala Mantra masalamantrajax.com

Corner Taco cornertaco.com

Cuisine 76 & Bar cuisine76andbar.com

European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com

The Fox Restaurant facebook.com/thefoxrestaurant

The Greenhouse and Bar thegreenhousebar.com

Hawkers eathawkers.com

Homespun Kitchen homespunkitchen.com

Iguana on Park iguanaonpark.com

Josephine josephineavondale.com

Kickbacks Gastropub kickbacksgastropub.com

Kingmaker Brewing kingmakerbrewing.com

MOJO No. 4 Urban BBQ & Whiskey Bar mojobbq.com/mojo-no-4

The Mossfire Grill mossfire.com

Nacho Taco nachotaco.net

Pattaya Thai Grill pattayathaijax.com

Nagasaki Japanese Restaurant nagasakisushirestaurant.com

New Berlin Fish House & Oyster Bar newberlinfishhouse.com

Ship 2 Shore Seafood & Steak ship2shoreseafood.com

Sushi Zen Jax sushizenfl.kwickmenu.com

Terry’s Grill facebook.com/terrysgrill

Pizza Cave facebook.com/pizzacave5pts

Restaurant Orsay restaurantorsay.com River & Post riverandpostjax.com

Sake House sakehousejax.com

Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com

S & R Dim Sum srdimsumjax.com

Sushi Cafe sushicafejax.com

Sweet Theory Baking Company sweettheorybakingco.com

Taqueria Cinco taqueria5points.com

1937 1937sanmarco.com

Bar Molino barmolino.com

bb’s bbsrestaurant.com

The Bearded Pig thebeardedpigbbq.com

Bistro X Restaurant and Lounge bistrox.com

Chart House chart-house.com

European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com

Fla. Juice and Bowl flajuiceandbowl.com

1748 Bakehouse 1748bakehouse.com

Bold City Downtown boldcitybrewery.com

Dainty Cheesecake Company daintycheesecake.com

Dos Vatos Tacos dosvatostacosfl.com

Casa Dora Italian Cafe casadoraitaliancusinepizzeria.com

Caribbean Sunrise Bakery & Restaurant caribbeansunrisebakery.com

Crispy’s Springfield Gallery facebook.com/CrispysSpringfieldGallery

III Forks 3forks.com/location/jacksonville

4 Rivers Smokehouse 4rsmokehouse.com

Amazing Thai Restaurant amazingthaijax.com

Bazille at Nordstrom nordstrom.com

Blaze Pizza blazepizza.com

Flavors of Thai flavors-of-thai.business.site

Fuji Sushi jacksonvillefujisushi.com

The Local thelocaljax.com

Matthew’s Restaurant matthewsrestaurant.com

The Metro Diner metrodiner.com

Oceana oceana.restaurant

The Olive Tree Mediterranean Grille theolivetreemediterraneangrille.com

Peterbrooke peterbrooke.com/pages/san-marco

Flavva flavvajacksonville.com

Island Tropics Restaurant facebook.com/Island-Tropics-Restaurant-Lounge

Tha Soulfood Smagicians facebook.com/thasmagicians

The Dreamette dreametteicecream.com

The District thedistrictspr.com

Hola Mexican Restaurant holajax.com

Catullo’s Italian catullos.hrpos.heartland.us/menu

Cataluna Jax catalunajax.com

Culhane’s Irish Pub culhanesirishpub.com

The French Pantry thefrenchpantryfl.com

Fresh Mex & Co. freshmexjax.com

Pink Salt Restaurant + Wine Bar pinksaltrestaurant.com

Rue Saint-Marc ruesaintmarc.com

Sake House 2 sakehousejax2.com

Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com

Taverna taverna.restaurant

Town Hall townhalljax.com

Indulgence Southern Bistro indulgencesouthernbistro.com

Social Grounds Coffee Roasters social-grounds-coffee.myshopify.com

Strings Sport Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com

Silkie’s Chicken & Champagne Bar meetatsilkies.com

Tulua Bistro instagram.com/tuluabistro

Uptown Kitchen and Bar uptownkitchenjax.com

Waafa and Mike’s Cafe facebook.com/waafaandmikes

V Pizza vpizza.com Galaxy Burger galaxyburgersjax.com

Just Jerk justjerkbbq1.com

Marianas Grinds facebook.com/marianasgrinds

Mr. Potato Spread mrpotatospread.com

Midtown Table midtowntable.medurebrothers.com

Norikase norikase.com

Prati Italia pratiitalia.com

Purple Roots purplerootsjacksonville.com

Ahadu Ethiopian Restaurant ahadu-ethiopian-restaurant.business.site

Aspendos Italian Cuisine aspendositaliancuisine.com

Banana Leaf Asian Bistro facebook.com/bananaleafasianbistro

Cross Creek Steakhouse and Ribs crosscreeksteakhouse.com

Ellianos Coffee ellianos.com

The Juicy Crab thejuicycrabjax.com

1928 Cuban Bistro-Fleming Island 1928cubanistro.com

Akaya Grill & Sushi Restaurant akayaonline.com

Bangin Burgers banginburgurs.com

Black Creek Cafe black-creek-cafe-middleburg.com

Corky Bell’s Seafood & Steaks corkybellsseafood.com

El Palermo Puerto Rican Kitchen palermopuertoricankitchen.com

El Pegao Restaurant facebook.com/eloegaorestaurant

Holey Moley Bagel Bar NYC facebook.com/HoleyMoleyBagelBar

King Kabob eatkingkabob.com

La Catrina Tacos & Tequila Bar lacatrinalovers.com

Leaderboard Arcade Bar & Pizzeria leaderboardarcade.com

Seasons 52 seasons52.com

Sweet Mama’s Southern Homestyle Cooking sweetmamasjacksonville.com

Taste of Thai tasteofthaijax.com

La Perla Mexican Restaurant orderlaperlamexicanrestaurant.com

Lewey’s Seafood and Wings leweys-seafood-wings.business.site

Mesa mesajax.com

The Metro Diner metrodiner.com

The Potter’s House Soul Food and Bistro thesoulfoodbistro.com

Puerto Plata Restaurant puertoplatarestaurant.com

Legacy Restaurant & Bar instagram.com/legacyloungejax

Mackey’s Munchies mackeysmunchies.com

Mr. Potato Spread mrpotatospread.com

Natural Kitchen naturalkitchenusa.com

OP Fish House & Oyster Bar opfishhouse.com

Ten Zushi tenzushionline.com

Two Sisters and A Deviled Crab 2sistersjax.com

Vito’s Pizza vitosorangepark.com

Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com

Texas de Brazil texasdebrazil.com

Sushi Bear sushibearjax.com

Trent’s Seafood jltrents.com

Tsaocaa Oakleaf tsaocaatea.com

ARLINGTON

Cliff’s Bar and Grill cliffsbarandgrill.com

Club Heaven clubheavenjax.com

BEACHES/PONTE VEDRA

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

The Brix Taphouse jacksonvillebeachbar.com

Casa Marina casamarinahotel.com

Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com

Flask & Cannon facebook.com/flaskandcannon

Fly’s Tie Irish Pub facebook.com/flystieirishpub

Green Room Brewing greenroombrewing.com

Grey Matter Distillery greymatterdistillery.com

Gusto gustojax.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Ink Factory Brewing inkfactorybrewing.com

NIGHTLIFE

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Jax Beach Kava Bar kavajacksonville.com

Jekyll Brewing jekyllbrewing.com

Julep Palm Valley facebook.com/juleppalmvalley

Lemon Bar & Grille lemonbarjax.com

Lynch’s Irish Pub lynchsirishpub.com

Mango’s mangosjaxbeach.com

Mavi’s Waterfront Bar & Grill mavijax.com

Monkey’s Uncle Tavern monkeysuncletavern.com

Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill palmvalleyoutdoors.com

Penthouse Lounge at Casa Marina Hotel casamarinahotel.com

Ragtime Tavern ragtimetavern.com

Refinery Jax Beach refineryjaxbeach.com

Reve Brewing revebrewing.com

The Ritz Lounge theritzlounge.com

The Shim Sham Room shimshamroom.com

Southern Swells Brewing Company southernswells.com

Surfer The Bar surferthebar.com

Voo Swar Restaurant & Lounge instagram.com/vooswar

DOWNTOWN

The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com/bierhall

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe

Dos Gatos dosgatosjax.com

Element Bistro Bar & Lounge elementjax.com

Hardwicks hardwicksbarjax.com

Intuition Aleworks intuitionaleworks.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Justice Pub facebook.com/thejusticepub

The Lark thelarkjax.com

Live Bar facebook.com/livebarclubjax

Manifest Distilling manifestdistilling.com

Ocean Street Tequila instagram.com/oceanstreettacosandtequila

The RL Lounge therlloungejax.com

Ruby Beach Brewing rubybeachbrewing.com

Underbelly underbellyjax.com

The Volstead thevolsteadjax.com

FLEMING ISLAND

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com/fleming-island

Mercury Moon facebook.com/mercury-moon

Mr. Chubby’s Wings mrchubbyswings.com

Sunset Tiki Bar the-sunset-tiki-bar.business.site

Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com

INTRACOASTAL WEST 9 Zero Pour 9zeropour.com

MVP’s Sports Grille facebook.com/mvpssportsgrille

The Spot Hookah Lounge thespothookahloungejax.com

Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com

MANDARIN/JULINGTON CREEK/ FRUIT COVE

2nd Bay Brewing 2ndbaybrewing.com

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

Iggy’s Grill and Bar facebook.com/iggysgrill

Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com

Legacy Ale Works legacyaleworks.com

Monkey’s Uncle Tavern facebook.com/monkeysunclemandarin1

Rack’em Up Sports Bar facebook.com/rackemupsportsbar

Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com

MURRAY HILL Axe Champs axechamps.com

Buchner’s Bierhalle buchnersbierhalle.com

The Boot Rack Saloon boot-rack-saloon.business.site

Fishweir Brewing Company fishweirbrewing.com

The Flamingo theflamingojax.com

Perfect Rack Billiards perfectrackbilliards.com

Silver Cow silvercowjax.com

The Stout Snug thestoutsnug.com

The Walrus thewalrusjax.com

SEPTEMBER

Coppertop Bar and Restaurant coppertopbarandrestaurant.com

fourfathersdistillery.com

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

ORANGE PARK/MIDDLEBURG

57 Heaven facebook.com/57heavenop

Big Dawgs Sports Restaurant bigdawgsrestaurant.com

Cheers Park Avenue cheersparkave.com

The Daq Shack thedaqshack904.com

Dee’s Music Bar and Grill facebook.com/musicbarandgrill

The Fresh Spot Lounge thefreshspotlounge.com

LeaderBoard Arcade leaderboardarcade.com

Locals Pub localspub.co

Nakama Anime Bar nakamabar.com

Park Avenue Billiards parkavenuebilliards.com

Pinglehead Brewing Company pinglehead.com

Southern Social Whiskey Bar & Lounge southernsocialbar.com

RIVERSIDE/AVONDALE Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

Brick Restaurant brickofavondale.com

Burlock & Barrel burlockandbarrel.com

Casbah Cafe thecasbahcafe.com

Dart Bar & Games facebook.com/dartbarjax

Eclipse Bar & Nightclub facebook.com/eclipsebarjax

The Garage garagejax.com

The Green House thegreenhousebar.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Incahoots incahootsnightclub.com

Kanine Social Taproom kaninesocial.com

Keg & Coin kegandcoinjax.com

Kingmaker Brewing kingmakerbrewing.com

Lemonstreet Brewing Company lemonstreetbrewing.com

The Loft loftjax.com

Mickie’s Irish Pub facebook.com/mickiesjax

Myrtle Avenue Brewing facebook.com/myrtleavebrewing

Park Place Lounge park-place-lounge.business.site

Rain Dogs instagram.com/raindogs5points

River & Post riverandpostjax.com

Riverside Liquors riversideliquors.biz

Rogue Bar facebook.com/rogue.bar.1

Root Down facebook.com/rootdownjax

Shores Liquor and Bar instagram.com/shoresliquoravondale

Wildcrafters facebook.com/wildcraftersjax

SAN MARCO/ST. NICHOLAS

1937 Spirits & Eatery 1937sanmarco.com

Aardwolf Brewing Company aardwolfbrewing.com

Bar Molino barmolino.com

Breezy Jazz House breezyjazzhouse.com

Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge cubalibrebar.com

Fore Score Golf Tavern forescoregolf.com

The Grape & Grain Exchange grapeandgrainexchange.com

Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com

The Mudville Grill themudvillegrill.com

The Players Grille playersgrille.com

Posting House posting.house

Sidecar instagram.com/sidecarjax

SOUTHSIDE/ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER

Austin Karaoke facebook.com/austinkaraoke

Bottlenose Brewing bottlenosebrewing.com

Cataluna Jax catalunajax.com

Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Jax Craft Beer jaxcraftbeer.com

Medusa Restaurant and Hookah Lounge facebook.com/medusa-loungejacksonville

Secret Tiki Temple secrettikitemple.com

Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery 7bridgesgrille.com

Trio Lounge triohookahlounge.com

Veterans United Craft Brewery vubrew.com

Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com

WXYZ Bar at Aloft Hotel aloftjacksonvilletapestrypark.com

SPRINGFIELD

Crispy’s Springfield Gallery crispysspringfieldgallery.com

The District thedistrictspr.com

Historically Hoppy Brewing Company historicallyhoppy.com

Shantytown Pub facebook.com/shantytownjax

Strings Sports Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com

Stumpy’s Hatchet House stumpyshh.com

ST. AUGUSTINE

Ancient City Brewing ancientcitybrewing.com

Arnold’s Lounge arnoldslounge.com

Beacon Listening Room beaconstaug.com

Cellar Upstairs Bar at San Sebastian Winery sansebastianwinery.com

Dog Rose Brewing dogrosebrewing.com

The Original Café Eleven originalcafe11.com

Prohibition Kitchen pkstaug.com

Tradewinds Lounge tradewindslounge.com

WESTSIDE

Elevation Lounge elevationjax.com

Lillian’s lillianssportsgrill.com

The Phoenix Bar & Bowling facebook.com/thephoenixjax

Chris Mark

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