Folio Vol. 37, Issue 3

YOUR GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT IN JACKSONVILLE

FEBRUARY HOROSCOPES

ARIES

This February will be a month of love and opportunity for you, Aries. There will be lots of valuable connections made throughout this month. You will launch a new emotional cycle that will teach you valuable lessons on an emotional level. It may seem like an emotional roller coaster this month, so buckle up!

TAURUS

It’s time to break some rules, Taurus. The new moon on Feb. 1 is going to inspire you to take leaps and maybe even some risks when it comes to your career. Once the Mercury retrograde ends on Feb. 3, everything will settle down, giving you a clear view of your goals.

GEMINI

A common feminine sign ruled by the dual planet Mercury. This February will be Valentine’s Day brought to life. Males, females and everything in between, it is time to embrace your feminine side. Flowers, face masks, spa days, manis and pedis all month long. Finding a partner might not be in the cards this February, so be your own lover.

CANCER

After getting that much needed rest last month, you are ready to spread those wings! This February will be all about progress and understanding. As you get back into the flow of things and begin to adjust to your own inner changes, it would be wise to stick to your charming qualities as they will prove to be an important tool in the workplace.

LEO

Being a male moving and powerful sign owned by the sun, this February will be like no other. The cosmic energy surrounding Leos will be intense and overwhelming. You may need to follow your own thoughts and give suitable answers to yourself. Trust your intuition during this month. You know yourself best, Leo.

VIRGO

As a natural romantic, this month is your time to shine, Virgo. Take that special someone out on a romantic (preferably candle-lit) dinner and see where the night takes you. Especially since this month will prove to be financially stable for you, spend the money you earn on those you care about. Spread that love!

LIBRA

The month of February may start off a bit rocky for you, Libra. You may find yourself in a weird spot financially, but the good thing about money is that it doesn’t necessarily bring happiness … just comfort. That said, don’t get caught up in all the unfavorable things going on in your life. Instead, focus on the good and those you love.

SCORPIO

It is time to tap into your determined and aggressive nature this month, Scorpio. You know what you want, it is time to get it. Whether it be in your love life or your career. Use the passion that drives you. Give it your all and everything will soon fall into place by the end of the month. Don’t count yourself out.

SAGITTARIUS

Have you ever heard the saying that too much of one thing can quickly turn into a bad thing? While your desire for pleasure is going to increase this month, remember that moderation is key. You can still have a good time without spending all of your savings. Life is all about balance.

CAPRICORN

As always, you have been acting on impulse the last few months. This February, it’s time to pump on the brakes. Think logically and not emotionally. While this is the love month, you may want to focus on self love. And no, that doesn’t mean a shopping spree. Light some candles and chill out.

AQUARIUS

It’s Aquarius season, baby! While this month will be full of new experiences and trying things out of your comfort zone, it’s important to let people in on your journey. Much too often you tend to take the road less traveled and expect to do it all on your own. Newsflash! It’s OK to ask for help, and at times, it is necessary to do so.

PISCES

You love love, Pisces. Guess what? Love loves you too. This February will prove to be quite fruitful for you. It will feel like most people find you irresistible, and that very well might be the case. Your celestial energy will be radiating around you, pulling people in. Just don’t let it go straight to your head, ok? (And stay away from Aquarius men.)

True story. On a regular basis, my Adult Son and I might view a Network promo about something and view it as kinda not that great, maybe too stupid, awkward or amateurish. In moments, we look at each other and in unison say: INTERNS. Having said that, I just read the article on Santa and laughed, grinned and smiled. I thought it was quite creative and well done. So, I go to the Facebook page to check out the author. Oh my, Intern, you really shifted the balance towards the positives of interns. Great start. Look forward to more.

Mark Thompson

BOUQS & BRICKS BOUQUETS BRICKBATS

To Stacey Goldring, writer, filmmaker and founder of Searching for Identity, who debuted her documentary “Traces: Voices of the Second Generation” in commemoration of UN Holocaust Remembrance Day. The film features children of Holocaust survivors (known as the Second Gen) sharing their parents’ harrowing stories of the Holocaust, their determination to survive and what it was like living with parents who lived through the evils most of us can’t even imagine.

To Jaguars players and staff for a truly memorable season—and we mean that in a best way possible. From having the worst record in the league to winning their division (and being oh-so-close to the Super Bowl) and Trevor Lawrence making national news for dining at Waffle House, it’s been a whirlwind season and the best reminder that “It’s Always Been the Jaguars.” (More on that later in the issue.) #DTWD

To Duval County Public Schools , egged on by Gov. Ron DeSantis no doubt, for requesting to ban 176 books in the county. According to PEN America, a non-profit that defends the freedom of expression through literature and promotes access to views and ideas of others, this is the most suggested ban in the state. Though, DCPS administrators claim the report is not accurate and lacks context.

To shady political candidates who lie, cheat and steal to win. They hope their outrageous and inflammatory ads, which may or may not have any basis in fact, are enough to sway residents to vote their way without verifying their claims. If candidates are behaving this way just to get the job, just think what they’ll do once they get in.

MONDAYS

• The Brix Taphouse (music bingo), 7 p.m.

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

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Pavilion Drive, 7 p.m.

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

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

• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7 p.m.

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

• Wall Street, 7 p.m.

• Treylor Park (pop culture trivia), 9 p.m.

TUESDAYS

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

• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.

• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.

• Hoptinger–5 Points (music bingo), 7 p.m.

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

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek, 7 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Neptune Beach, 7 p.m.

• Island Wing Company–Southside, 7 p.m.

• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.

• Jerry’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.

• Raindogs, 7 p.m.

TR I V IA E T C .

• Sahara Cafe, 7 p.m.

• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.

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

• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 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 (pop culture), 6:30 p.m.

• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.

• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.

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

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

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

• V Pizza–Fleming Island (pop culture trivia), 7 p.m.

• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 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.

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

• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m

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

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

• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 9 p.m.

THURSDAYS

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

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

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

• Whiskey Jax–Baymeadows, 7 p.m.

• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–St Augustine, 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 9 p.m.

SATURDAYS

• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.

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

SUNDAYS

• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m. (first and third Sunday)

All games are general knowledge trivia unless otherwise noted.

THEATER / DANCE

FEB. 3-5

2023 Jacksonville Film Festival jacksonvillefilmfestival.com

FEB. 3-12

Opéra Mystique: Gustav Holst’s “Sāvitri” and Gian Carlo Menotti’s “The Medium” The Waterworks, St. Augustine firstcoastopera.com

FEB. 4

Blue Man Group Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

Disney’s “Winnie the Pooh”: The New Musical Stage Adaptation Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

“Mutts Gone Nuts”

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts fscjartistseries.org

Stomp

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org

FEB. 4-5

Jacksonville Dance Theatre presents “InBody” The Florida Ballet jacksonvilledancetheatre.org

FEB. 9-10

Step Afrika! Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

FEB. 9-MARCH 23

“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com

FEB.10

Ted Vigil’s Tribute to John Denver Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts: Extravaganza 2023!

Jacksonville Center for Performing Arts dcps.duvalschools.org/anderson

FEB. 10-11

“String Quartet”

The Florida Ballet–Picinich-Byrd Theatre floridaballet.org

FEB. 15

MOCA Movie Night: “The Square” MOCA Jacksonville mocajacksonville.unf.edu

FEB. 15-19

“Pretty Woman: The Musical” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org

FEB. 16

“Let’s Go Science Show” Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

FEB. 16-19

“Sunset Village” Amelia Musical Playhouse ameliamusicalplayhouse.com

FEB. 17-19

“Cabaret” Phillips Fine Arts Studio–Jacksonville University ju.edu/cfa

FEB. 17-MARCH 5

“Camelot & Camelittle” Artist Connection Theatre artistconnectiontheatre.org

“The Lifespan of a Fact” ABET Theatre abetjax.com

“Little Women” Orange Park Community Theatre opct.info

FEB. 21

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance ‘23 Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org

FEB. 22-26

“Cry It Out” Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, St. Augustine flagler.edu

https://www.flagler.edu

FEB. 24

Mania: The Abba Tribute Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

FEB. 24-MARCH 5

“Matilda: The Musical” The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com

FEB. 24-MARCH 19

The Diviners Limelight Theatre. St. Augustine limelight-theatre.org

FEB. 25

Justin Willman: Magic for Humans in Person Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

ONGOING

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS

Magician Bill Abbott at the Magic Hideway Casa Monica Resort & Spa, St. Augustine magichideaway.com

FEB. 1

River City Comedy Showcase

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

Improv Night

Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

FEB. 3

Phatt Katz of Comedy with Tight Mike and Ozrick Cooley

Lauren’s Seafood Blues and Jazz phattkatz.com

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

“Full Disclosure” with Jill Bresnahan (adults only), 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

FEB. 3-5

Earthquake

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

FEB. 5

Kevin James: The Iregardless Tour Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Vicki Lawrence & Mama: A Two-Woman Show Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

FEB. 8

Improv Night

Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

FEB. 9-11

Shaun Jones

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

FEB. 10

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

FEB. 14

Mutzie

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

FEB. 15

Improv Night

Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

FEB. 16-18

Henry Cho Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

FEB. 17

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

Double Feature: Stand-up Comedy by Katie Rubin & ALEXANDER, 10 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

FEB. 18

Shane Gillis Live Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

FEB. 22

Jeff Dunham: Still Not Canceled VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevent.com

Improv Night Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark. com

FEB. 23-25

Carlos Mencia Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

FEB. 24

The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.

The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

FEB. 25

Steve Hofstetter Underbelly underbellyjax.com

OPEN MIC NIGHTS Tuesdays Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints

VooSwar https://www.facebook.com/Vooswar

Wednesdays Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

the Walrus Thewalrusjax.com

Thursdays Kava & Company–San Marco kavaandcompany.com

FEBRUARY SPECIAL EVENTS

FEB. 1

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Orlando Solar Bears VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 3

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Florida Everblades VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

The YAAASS Factory presents The Big Gay Party The Glass Factory facebook.com/jaxrcpride

FEBRUARY 3-5

16th Annual DONNA Marathon Weekend Various locations thedonnafoundation.org

FEB. 4

Jacksonville Model Train and Railroadiana Show 2023

Prime Osborn Convention Center jaxevents.com

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Greenville Swamp Rabbits

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 5

Cummer Beaches Celebrate! Gala TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse cummermuseum.org

FEB. 10

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Atlanta Gladiators VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 11

Secret Jacksonville Walking Tours hosted by The Jaxson

James Weldon Johnson Park thejaxsonmag.com

Jacksonville Record & CD Festival

Adam Herbert Center–University of North Florida facebook.com/JacksonvilleRecordCDShow

“Indulgence: Romance & Erotica Book Festival” James Weldon Johnson Park https://www.eventbrite.com

5K/8K Superhero Run

Grace Episcopal Day School, Orange Park 1stplacesports.com/

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Greenville Swamp Rabbits

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 12

Artful Healing: Tai Chi & Soundbath Experience Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens cummermuseum.org

FEB. 15

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Orlando Solar Bears VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 16-19

2023 Jax International Auto Show Prime Osborn Convention Center thejaxautoshow.com

FEB. 17

Planetarium Night Live presents “The Honeycomb Telescope: Discoveries From James Webb Space Telescope” Bryan-Gooding Planetarium—Museum of Science and History themosh.org

FEB. 17-19

The Big Bounce America Riverfront Plaza thebigbounceamerica.com

FEB. 18

Jaguars 5K Stadium Challenge TIAA Bank Field 1stplacesports.com

2023 Cupid’s Undie Run Lynch’s Irish Pub my.cupids.org

FEB. 18-19

World of Nations Celebration 2023 Tailgaters Parking specialevents.coj.net

FEB. 19

Artful Movement With Yoga 4 Change MOCA Jacksonville mocajacksonville.unf.edu

FEB. 22

DT Vision Gala: Rhinestone Cowford 142 N. Madison St. downtownjacksonville.org

FEB. 24

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Atlanta Gladiators VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

FEB. 25

Monster Jam 2023 TIAA Bank Field jaxevent.com

Ortega River Run St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School 1stplacesports.com

Jacksonville Icemen vs. Worcester Railers VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jacksonvilleicemen.com

Love and Music Festival Tree Hill Nature Center treehill.org

FEB. 26

Ninth Annual Riverside Craft Beer Festival 715 Riverside Ave. site of Riverside Arts Market riversidecraftbeerfestival.com

ONGOING

EXHIBITIONS

“Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond,” through April 23 Museum of Science and History themosh.org

COSMIC CONCERTS

Feb. 4: Queen, 5 p.m.; “Dark Side of the Moon,” 6 p.m.

Feb. 5: Laser Magic, 5 p.m

Feb. 11: Laser Vinyl, 5 p.m.; “The Wall,” 6 p.m.

Feb. 12: Motown, 5 p.m.

Feb. 18: Retro: 5 p.m.; “Wish You Were Here,” 6 p.m.

Feb. 19: Dance of Light: 5 p.m.

Feb. 25: Electrolaze, 5 p.m.; Hypnotica, 6 p.m.

Feb. 26: Lasermania, 5 p.m.

Bryan-Gooding Planetarium—Museum of Science and History themosh.org

ART

The Art Center Gallery

• Featured artists include Mary Atwood, Cookie Davis, Denise Sawyer-Johnson, Lawrence Walden and Lynn Wehrmann tacjacksonvillegallery.org

Butterfield Garage Art Gallery

• Featured artists include Pat Arenas, Michael Fitzpatrick, Xi Guo, Gwen Mehler and Jan Miller butterfieldgarage.com

The Corner Gallery at The Jessie

• Shameera Din Wiest: The Veil of Maya,” Feb. 11-May 3 movingthemargins.org

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

• “Anila Quayyum Agha: Flight Patterns,” Feb. 24-April 30

• “Rockwell Kent: The Shakespeare Portfolios,” through May 7

• “Brennan Wojtyla: Cathedral of Labor,” through May 21

• “James McBey: Etchings,” through Oct. 29

• “Outside: In,” through Nov. 30 cummermuseum.org

First Coast Cultural Center

• Juried Artist Member Exhibition, through Feb. 6

• “Figuratively Seen: Teresa Cook,” Feb. 1028 firstcoastculturalcenter.org

Florida Mining Gallery

• Featured artists include Ashley Woodson Bailey, Betsy Cain, Ibrahim Miranda Ramos, Jeremiah Jossim, Marcus Kenny, Ross Noto and Susan Hable floridamininggallery.com

Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum, St. Augustine

• “Painting St. Augustine: Selections from the Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers Collection,” through May staugustine.ufl.edu

Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport jaxairportarts.com

Hillary Whitaker Gallery

• Featured artists include Carmelo Blanding, John Bunker, Hillary Butler, Dennis Campay, Page Jones Davis, Marissa Decinque, Christina Foard and Jennifer JL Jones hwhitakergallery.com

Jacksonville University

• “Sitting Down Together: Melissa Haviland, Andrew Decaen and Janet Ballweg,” through March 6, Alexander Brest Gallery

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

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

The Lightner Museum

• “Tom Schifanella: Faces of the Alcazar,” through March 7

• “Through the Lens of William Henry Jackson,” through March 31

• “Contemporary Chronicles of St. Augustine,” through Sept. 30 lightnermuseum.org

MOCA Jacksonville

• “Art + Politics: Grounding Dialogue,” through Feb. 5

• “FIFTY: An Alumni Exhibition,” through Feb. 12

• “Shervone Neckles: Bless This House,” through March 5

• Project Atrium: Milagros, through April 9

• “Don’t Blame It on Zen: The Way of John Cage & Friends,” through May 7

• “Brennan Wojtyla: Cathedral of Labor,” through May 21 mocajacksonville.unf.edu

Museum of Science and History

• Arts Infusion ImagiNclusion, MOSH Lobby

• Works by Patricia Madrid, MOSH Creation Station themosh.org

NoCo Center

• “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” through Feb. 26 vangoghjacksonville.com

Ritz Theatre & Museum

• Jazz Jam Photo Exhibit, through March

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

St. Augustine Art Association

• “Faces & Figures,” Feb. 3-26 staaa.org

Stellers Gallery

• Works by Eileen Corse, Jim Draper, Fallon Pepper, C. Ford Riley, Alice Williams, MacTruque and Jeff Foxworthy (yes, that Jeff Foxworthy) stellersgallery.com

University of North Florida

• “I Feel it Fading: A Solo Exhibition by Dustin Harewood,” Feb. 9- April 7, UNF Gallery of Art

• Brazil Study Abroad Exhibit, Feb. 16-April 7, Lufrano Intercultural Gallery unf.edu/gallery

The Vault at 330

• Featured artists include Susan Astleford, Margena Burnett, Ellen Diamond, Ed Hall, Dolf James, Harry McCormick and Denise

Murphy thevaultat1930.com

Yellow House

• “A Time to Beast: The Art of Traci Mims,” Feb. 4-TBD

• “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: Feb. 1

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/artwalk

Fernandina Beach Arts Market: Feb. 25

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: Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25

Artists, artisans and makers display their original paintings, jewelry, photographs, 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: Feb. 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. artgalleriesofstaugustine.com

Vilano Beach Artisan Market, Feb. 18

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

New Music Releases This Month

By Tysen Romeo

“Queen of Me” by Shania Twain is the sixth studio album by country/pop singer and songwriter and her first new album since 2017’s “Now.”

“Let Her Burn” by Rebecca Black is the first full-length album by the pop singer known for her 2011 hit single “Friday.”

“The Jaws of Life” by Pierce the Veil is the fifth studio album by the rock band and their first release since “Misadventures” seven years ago.

“This Is Why” by Paramore is the rock band’s sixth studio album and first new album since “After Laughter” in 2017.

“Desire, I Want to Turn Into You” by Caroline Polachek is the fourth studio album by the pop singer-songwriter and producer.

“Trustfall” is the ninth studio album by pop singer P!nk, who said it’s possibly the best album she’s ever made and one of the most fun. It’s her first album since 2019’s “Hurts 2B Human.”

“Love You Forever” by Vérité is the fourth studio album by the indie folk singer and her first album since “New Skin” in 2019.

“Cracker Island” is the eighth studio album by alternative, virtual band Gorillaz and features Bad Bunny, Stevie Nicks, Tame Impala and Thundercat.

“Good Riddance” is the debut studio album of Gracie Abrams, co-written and co-produced with Aaron Dessner. Adams will be touring with Taylor Swift for the highly anticipated Eras Tour.

FEB. 2

Toby Mac: Hits Deep Tour VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

Durry and Driveaway Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Fayuca Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

Remedy Tree

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

FEB. 3

Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros ft. The Wolf Pack Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

CONCERTS

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Arlie with Whitehall plus The Sewing Club Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Roosevelt Collier Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

Seventh Day Slumber, Breathing Theory, Magdalene Rose Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

TAUK ft. Kanika Moore 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 3-4

Jacksonville Symphony: Country Legends Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

FEB. 4

Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com

Crystal Bowersox Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds Acoustic Tribute + Dopelimatic Underbelly underbellyjax.com

Dewey Via Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

Warren Zeiders with special guest Austin Snell

Photo by Carmen Macri

Four Barrel Family Band hosts “Brown to the Bone”

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Lucero with Justin Wells Intuition Bier Hall intuitionaleworks.com

Mexidão ft. Kirk Brinkworth & Deb Dias Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

Mike Dillon and Punkadelic with TAND 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 5

Tom Rush Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Marcus Roberts Trio St. Paul’s-By-the-Sea Episcopal Church beachesfinearts.org

Susto with Howdy Intuition Bier Hall intuitionaleworks.com

FEB. 6

Carrie Underwood VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

Dave Mason: Endangered Species Tour 2023 with special guest Thunderstorm Artis Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

FEB. 7

Neko Case with special guest Indigo Sparke Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Jamison Ross and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Larry Cambpell & Teresa Williams Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

FEB. 8

Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Trouble Is … 25th Anniversary Tour Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Patty Griffin Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Soulfly, Bodybox, Half Heard Voices Underbelly underbellyjax.com

That 1 Guy and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

FEB.10

Chicago Farm Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Mavis Staples Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

Bad Dog Mama

Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

Lil Darkie Underbelly underbellyjax.com

Pianist Evan Mitchell: “Reflections” Friday Musicale fridaymusicale.com

Squirrel Nut Zippers Prohibition Kitchen pkstaug.com

Strfkr with Das Kope Intuition Bier Hall intuitionaleworks.com

FEB. 11

John Mellencamp: Live and in Person Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Christian McBride’s “New Jawn” Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

Jacksonville Symphony: Brass, Organ & Percussion

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

Carolyn Wonderland Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

Smokestack

Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

The Steepwater Band Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Supper Club and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

FEB. 12

Magic Beans and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

The Koffin Kats, The Krank Daddies, Mudtown & The Kreepy Tikis 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 13

Shaun Martin

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

Taylor Roberts Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

FEB. 14

Gilberto Santa Rosa: De Amor y Salsa Tour Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Blue Jay Jazz Jam Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

FEB. 15

Supersuckers and Mudtown Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

FEB. 16

The Temptations and The Four Tops Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Valerie June Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

Joe Reid & The Heartland Band Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

Songwriters Night hosted by Andy Zipf Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Ward Davis 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 17

Russell Dickerson: She Likes It Tour Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Gladys Knight Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

Jesse Dayton Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Gerald Alston ft. Ritz Voices Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com

Underground Springhouse and Bella’s Bartok 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 17-18

Jacksonville Symphony: “1001 Nights: Scherazade” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

Moors & McCumber Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

FEB. 18

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Rhiannon Giddens Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

JU Wind Ensemble and First Coast Wind Symphony Present the Music of Brian Balmages Terry Concert Hall–Jacksonville University ju.edu/cfa

JWJ’s Hip-Hop Festival

James Weldon Johnson Park jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

The 69 BOYZ “Spring Bass Bash” Underbelly underbellyjax.com

Charles Wesley Godwin 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

Papercutt Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

FEB. 19

Kem + Ledisi: Soul II Soul Tour VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

Deep Purple with special guests The Marshall Tucker Band Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram with special guest Tinsley Ellis Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

Jorma Kaukonen with David Bromberg Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Mark O’Connor “Beethoven & Bluegrass” The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia island ameliachambermusic.org

FEB. 21

The Electric Light Orchestra Experience Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

FEB. 22

The Frontmen of Country: Playing for Keeps Tour Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Cardiel and guests

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Speed Trap, Bingo Space Champions and Funlight

1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

FEB. 23

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org

Discoveries, Heirloom and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Jason Gray Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

Marc Douglas Berardo & Abbie Gardner Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com

FEB. 23

The Fritz with special guests Ajeva 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

Kind Hearted Strangers

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Playin’ Possum

Colonial Oak Music Park. St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

FEB. 24

An Evening With Clem Snide Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Town Mountain with Firewater Tent Revival Intuition Bier Hall intuitionaleworks.com

FEB. 24 AND 26

Willie Nelson & Family St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

FEB. 24-25

Jacksonville Symphony: The Queens of Rock & Soul: Tina Turner & Aretha Franklin Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

FEB. 25

The Beach Boys St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Frankie Beverly and Maze along with the Whispers Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

The Weight Band ft. members of The Band and the Levon Helm Band Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

The Dirty Grass Players Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

Happy Landing and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

FEB. 26

Journey: Freedom Tour 2023

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

The Man in Black: Tribute to Johnny Cash Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

King Buffalo Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com

FEB. 27

Al Stewart Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Sarah Jakes Roberts: Hope Revival Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

FEB. 28

Tower of Power: Celebrating 55 Years! Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

BORN IN A BARN

Vanessa Collier

Words and Interview by Rob Nicholson

“There’s a young lady [Vanessa Collier] came onstage with me, I forget where I was, but she’s playing an alto saxophone, and man, she was amazing.” Those are the words of Buddy Guy in an issue of “American Blues Scene,” describing an impromptu performance with Vanessa Collier on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise.

If you haven’t been fortunate enough to see Collier perform and witness one of her head-turning, fiery and passionate performances, you should definitely make sure you do. She’s playing live in Jacksonville Beach on Feb. 11 at the Blue Jay Listening Room. As a master musician and multi-instrumentalist, Vanessa Collier, weaves funk, soul, rock and blues into every powerful performance. With soulful vocals, searing saxophone, and clever songwriting, Vanessa is blazing a trail, racking up an impressive arsenal of honors along the way, and has already singled herself out as an artist of distinction and one we would all do well to watch.

With Collier, the proof is in the pudding. She’s won three Blues Music Awards, two for “Horn Player of the Year” in 2019 and 2020 and one last year for “Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year. Since 2017, Vanessa has been nominated for eight Blues Music Awards which has put her in some elite company with artists like Samantha Fish, Trombone Shorty and Jimmy Carpenter.

Midwest Record described her sound this way: “This bluesy singing sax player knows how to bring the slinking funk to her captivating, award-winning sound that has echoes in young Bonnie Raitt/Maria Muldaur vocal sounds … Killer stuff on every level, this sounds like one of the reasons you first became a music fan.” With AXS.com declaring: “[she] might as well go ahead and add another shelf to her trophy case because clearly, she’s going to need it. With a voice that often recalls that of blues-rock stalwart Bonnie Raitt, Collier turns up the heat ...”

Collier said she’s happy performing on stages across the world, hoping she can make a difference with fans and followers along the way. “I am driven to do this because I find it a total form of expression and connection,” she explained. “I love connecting with an audience and feeling their energy, and I hope to inspire people to follow their dreams and passions, to find what brings them joy, and then to pursue it doggedly.”

We spoke to Carol Sheehan who sits in regularly on the Tuesday Night Music Jams at the Blue Jay Listening Room and she said the Blue Jay is a musician’s venue. Big names will stop by often because it is a listening room. She says the room is conducive to relaxing while lounging on couches and chairs plus there is a bar. But no talking during performances!

FEB. 24, 2023 6-10 P.M. LOCATED IN LAVILLA

BOOT, SCOOT AND BOOGIE OVER TO DOWNTOWN VISION’S 8TH ANNUAL #DTJAX GALA TO RAISE FUNDS FOR PLACEMAKINGJAX.

JACKSONVILLE WIND SYMPHONY CELEBRATES 33 YEARS OF CONCERTS AT JU

First Coast Wind Symphony presents noted American Composer Brian Balmages in concert

Words by Ann Carey Holt

The Jacksonville University Creative Arts Series presents the First Coast Wind Symphony and the Jacksonville University Wind Ensemble in concert on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. in JU’s Terry Hall.

The concert will feature the music of American composer and conductor Brian Balmages. Balmages’ works span the worlds of orchestral, band and chamber music having been performed by groups ranging from professional symphony orchestras to elementary schools and in venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and the Sydney Opera House.

As a conductor, Balmages enjoys regular engagements with all-state and regional ensembles as well as university and professional groups throughout the world. He is an elected member of the American Bandmasters Association and has taught instrumental conducting at Towson University where he also served as assistant director of bands and orchestras. Currently, he is director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic.

Balmages will conduct both ensembles in a program featuring some of his most popular works. He will also present a free public masterclass on Feb. 17 from 2-3 p.m. in the Phillips Building at JU.

An all-volunteer community music organization, the First Coast Wind Symphony includes 60 musicians led by music director Artie Clifton and conductor Paul Weikle. The organization provides a cultural service to Northeast Florida by offering free concerts throughout the community and

is currently in its 33rd season. The Jacksonville University Wind Ensemble is led by music professor Chris Creswell.

The First Coast Wind Symphony was recently chosen through a highly selective audition process to perform at the annual Association of Concert Bands National Convention in Orlando this May. The ensemble is proud to represent Jacksonville in a forum with such broad national recognition. They have also released three albums to wide acclaim, “Prevailing Winds,” “A Christmas Celebration” and “Symphonic Spirit,” as well as the DVD “Sounds of the First Coast.”

This spring the First Coast Wind Symphony hosts an annual statewide Concerto Competition for high school students. Championed and juried by the organization, the competition rewards the winning musician with a scholarship and a featured solo with the First Coast Wind Symphony in an April concert.

For more information about the masterclass, contact music director Artie Clifton at info@fcwinds.org. Additional information about the group and its upcoming season is available at fcwinds.org.

FUTURE STATE OF MIND

WITH NICK CANNON

Where does the comedian-actor-rapper-writer-TV host-producer go from here?

Words by Ambar Ramirez

Discovered and thrown into the spotlight right out of high school, Nick Cannon never felt like he missed out on any experiences. He even mentioned not even really having put much thought into how becoming famous while still relatively young may have affected him. Neither defined by his past nor definitive in his future, Cannon just knew he was meant to entertain—through any talent necessary.

“It was just something that was a part of my life, and it wasn’t about, you know, being discovered, it was more just like, I knew this is what I was gonna do with my life,” Cannon said. “I didn’t think there was like any other option.”

It started with “All That” when Cannon, right out of high school, started off as a warm-up act before being promoted to series regular in 1998. From there, he co-hosted and wrote for other Nickelodeon shows before ultimately landing his own project in 2002, “The Nick Cannon Show.” He wrote, produced and starred in the show despite barely being 21 years old. And if you think that’s impressive, just take a look at Cannon’s IMDB profile and the long list of projects (don’t even get me started on “Drumline” and his cameo in “Men in Black II”).

But it was “Wild ’n Out” on VH1 that gave the world a true glimpse into what Cannon is all about. With its 19th season set to premiere this year, the improvisational comedy series gave a platform to comedians and entertainers to do what they love.

“It’s my baby when you think about it,” Cannon said. “I just wanted to give some young people the opportunity to shine and build a platform, where my friends could have a good time, and you know, almost 20 years later and it’s still going strong.”

While Cannon just welcomed the birth of his 11th child this past November, “Wild ’n Out” was his first and frankly, not the last. Within the same context of giving others an opportunity to showcase their talents, Cannon is about to embark on the Future Superstar Tour in partnership with Black Music Action Coalition. With Cannon recognized as a curator for recognizing talent and providing them outlets to develop them, the Future Superstar Tour is the perfect vehicle for him to widen his scope in the music scene as a producer.

“This project is the first time that I get to actually bring 10 up-andcoming amazing acts, you know, on the road, old school like promo style of like how Motown used to do it and introduce ‘em to the people directly,” Cannon revealed.

The tour will be a documented “baby Coachella,” as he called it, with performances by Symba, 24kGoldn, Justina Valentine, Hitman Holla, JD McCrary, Traetwothree, Klondike Blonde, DW Flame and Pop Money. But the Future Superstar Tour is more than that. As Cannon emphasizes and advises all performers to “forever be a student,” the tour will also have seminars where the audience will be able to ask questions and directly engage with the future superstars.

“We’re also doing seminars and kind of going in with the essential tools to give people all of the information that they need to take their career to the next level,” Cannon said. “So it’s really like a traveling music convention that we’re putting together for the next generation.”

While Cannon has always shared his spotlight with others, he had to learn to put himself and his health first in 2012 when he was diagnosed with lupus.

“My health has to come first, my rest has to come first, so it’s actually created a great infrastructure to show that I gotta take care of myself first,” Cannon shared. “You know, being the best father that I could be, I gotta make sure that I’m here for my children as long as possible. So health is the true wealth, and once you get that in order, then career comes after that.”

So as Cannon gets ready to embark on the Future Superstar Tour, which comes to Daily’s Place March 10 at for all of you wondering, I leave you with this final piece of advice from the man himself.

“Always be ready to learn and have an open mind because the game is constantly changing and you have to know how to just ask every question, keep your ears open and follow your passion.”

BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

FEB. 2-4

Fort Mose Historical Society presents “Flight to Freedom”

Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine fortmose.org

FEB. 3

Black History Month Concert and Celebration

Terry Concert Hall–Jacksonville University ju.edu/cfa

“Shaping an Island: Key West’s Black History” with curator and historian Cori Convertito ft. watercolors by Teresa Cook Pawsitive Healing Mobility Center pawsitivehealingvet.com

FEB. 8

Look at That! Black Artists Tour (virtual) Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens cummermuseum.org

FEB. 9-11

“I Lived Here, As Well ...Together” Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, St. Augustine ximenezfatiohouse.org

FEB. 10

Melanin Market Heritage Awards WJCT Studios jaxmelaninmarket.com

FEB. 10-11

Discover Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series Fort Mose State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

FEB.11

Curls and Convo

Vystar Tower Downtown curlsandconvo8.eventbrite.com

FEB. 16-17

“I Lived Here, As Well ...Together”

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. St. Augustine ximenezfatiohouse.org

FEB. 16-19

Discover Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series

Fort Mose State Park, St. Augustine discoverfortmose.com

FEB. 17

JWJ’s Hip-Hop Fest: Docs & Beats VIP Event Jessie Ball duPont Center jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

FEB. 18

Black History Month Parade & Melanin Market

822 A Philip Randolph Blvd. jaxmelaninmarket.com

JWJ’s Hip-Hop Festival

James Weldon Johnson Park jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

Black Girl Magic Art Class with Pheniox 4001 Confederate Point Rd eventbrite.com

FEB. 19

Black Artists of the Collection Tour

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens cummermuseum.org

FEB. 21

Black Art Matters Lecture: Art Samuel Levi Jones (virtual) MOCA Jacksonville mocajacksonville.unf.edu

FEB. 23-25

“I Lived Here, As Well ...Together”

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum ximenezfatiohouse.org

FEB. 24

“POWER: A Showcase of Arts, Culture, & History” Museum of Science and History themosh.org

FEB. 25

LaVilla: Then & Now Walking Tour hosted by The Jaxson Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center thejaxsonmag.com

“Self- Determined: The Secret History of Education Freedom”

Ritz Theatre & Museum blackmindsmatter.net

Augusta Savage Arts Festival Spring Park, Green Cove Springs fasacc.org

FEB. 26

San Marco Chamber Ensemble ft. Rance Adams and Kevin Day: Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Friday Musicale fridaymusicale.com

BITE BY BITE

Rice + Noodles Korean Restaurant .riceandnoodles.net

Tabouleh Cafe taboulehcafe.com

BEACHES

Angie’s Subs .facebook.com/angiessubs

Azurea at One Ocean azurearestaurant.com

Barbara Jean’s on the Water barbarajeansonthewater.com

Engine 15 Brewing Company engine15.com

The Fish Company Restaurant and Oyster Bar thefishcojax.com

Marker 32 marker32.com

Mezzaluna mezzalunajax.com

North Beach Fish Camp thenorthbeachfishcamp.com

The Bread and Board thebreadandboard.com

Burrito Gallery burritogallery.com

Cowford Chophouse cowfordchophouse.com

De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe

Estrella Cocina estrellajax.com

The Happy Grilled Cheese thehappygrilledchees.wixsite.com/grilledcheese

Indochine indochinejax.com

Juliette’s Bistro at Marriott Jacksonville Downtown marriott.com

Palm Valley Fish Camp palmvalleyfishcamp.com

Poe’s Tavern poestavern.com

Ragtime Tavern ragtimetavern.com

Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant safeharbor-seafood.com

Salt Life Food Shack saltlifefoodshack.com

Singleton’s Seafood Shack singletonsseafood.com

TacoLu tacolu.com

Ocean Street Tacos oceanstreettacos.com

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

Sweet Pete’s sweetpetescandy.com

Spliff’s Gastropub spliffsgastropub.com

MANDARIN

Berndt Ends BBQ .facebook.com/berndtendsbbq

Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro bluebamboojacksonville.com

ChopHouse Thirteen chophouse13.com

Julington Creek Fish Camp julingtoncreekfishcamp.com

Buchner’s Bierhall http://www.buchnersbierhalle.com/

MURRAY HILL

The Dreamette https://dreametteicecream.com/

El Jefe Tex Mex https://www.eljefejax.com/

Fired Up Pizza https://woodfireduppizza.com/

NORTHSIDE

Green Papaya Pan Asian Cuisine greenpapayaus.com

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

Le Petit Paris French Cafe lepetitparisjax.com

Picasso’s Pizzeria jaxpicassos.wixsite.com/jaxpicassos

Umami Japanese Curry & Ramen umamijax.com

Maple Street Biscuit Company maplestreetbiscuits.com/murray-hill

Moon River Pizza moonriverpizza.net

Murray Hillbilly murrayhillbilly.com

Vagabond Coffee Co. vagabondcoffee.com

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

Ship 2 Shore Seafood & Steak ship2shoreseafood.com

AVONDALE

&

RIVERSIDE

13 Gypsies 13gypsies.com

904 Tacos facebook.com/904tacosfivepoints

Arepa Please arepaplease.com

Black Sheep blacksheep5points.com

Biscottis biscottis.net

Blue Orchid blueorchidthai.com

Bold Bean boldbeancoffee.com

Brew Five Points brewfivepoints.co

Iguana on Park iguanaonpark.com

Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge jazzysrestaurant.net

Josephine josephineavondale.com

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

The Mossfire Grill mossfire.com

Pizza Cave facebook.com/pizzacave5pts

Restaurant Orsay restaurantorsay.com

Sake House sakehousejax.com

Sweet Theory Baking Company sweettheorybakingco.com

Taqueria Cinco taqueria5points.com

SAN MARCO

bb’s bbsrestaurant.com

The Bearded Pig thebeardedpigbbq.com

Bistro AIX Restaurant and Lounge bistrox.com

European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com

Fuji Sushi jacksonvillefujisushi.com

The Local thelocaljax.com

SPRINGFIELD

1748 Bakehouse 1748bakehouse.com

Crispy’s Springfield Gallery facebook.com/CrispysSpringfieldGallery

Strings Sport Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com

SOUTHSIDE

WESTSIDE

III Forks 3forks.com/location/jacksonville

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

Culhane’s Irish Pub culhanesirishpub.com

The Juicy Crab thejuicycrabjax.com

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

Matthew’s Restaurant matthewsrestaurant.com

The Metro Diner metrodiner.com

Peterbrooke peterbrooke.com/pages/san-marco

Taverna taverna.restaurant Town Hall townhalljax.com

Silkie’s Chicken & Champagne Bar meetatsilkies.com

Waafa and Mike’s Cafe facebook.com/waafaandmikes

The French Pantry thefrenchpantryfl.com

Mr. Potato Spread mrpotatospread.com

Taste of Thai tasteofthaijax.com

Sushi Bear sushibearjax.com

Trent’s Seafood jltrents.com

ARLINGTON

Cliff’s Bar and Grille cliffsbarandgrill.com

Beaches/Ponte Vedra

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

The Brix Taphouse jacksonvillebeachbar.com

Flask & Cannon facebook.com/flaskandcannon

Gusto gustojax.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

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

Pete’s Bar facebook.com/people/Petes-Bar-Atlantic-Beach

The Ritz Lounge theritzlounge.com

The Shim Sham Room shimshamroom.com

NIGHTLIFE

Surfer The Bar surferthebar.com

DOWNTOWN

1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

Intuition Aleworks intuitionaleworks.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Justice Pub facebook.com/TheJusticePub

Manifest Distillery manifestdistilling.com

Myth Nightclub mythexperience.com

Underbelly underbellyjax.com

The Volstead thevolsteadjax.com

FLEMING ISLAND

Mr. Chubby’s Wings mrchubbyswings.com

Mercury Moon facebook.com/Mercury-Moon

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

Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com

MANDARIN Enza’s enzas.net

Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com

MURRAY HILL Buchner’s Bierhalle buchnersbierhalle.com

The Flamingo theflamingojax.com

Perfect Rack Billiards perfectrackbilliards.com

The Stout Snug thestoutsnug.com

The Walrus thewalrusjax.com

ORANGE PARK 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

Locals Pub localspub.co

Tom and Betty’s tomandbettys.net

RIVERSIDE/AVONDALE Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

Brick Restaurant brickofavondale.com

Burlock & Barrel burlockandbarrel.com

Casbah Cafe thecasbahcafe.com

Eclipse Bar & Nightclub facebook.com/EclipseBarJax

The Garage garagejax.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge jazzysrestaurant.net

Keg & Coin kegandcoinjax.com

The Loft loftjax.com

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

Rain Dogs instagram.com/raindogs5points

River & Post riverandpostjax.com

Rogue Bar facebook.com/rogue.bar.1

Root Down facebook.com/RootDownJax

Wall Street Lounge facebook.com/TheWallStreetLounge Wildcrafters facebook.com/wildcraftersjax

SAN MARCO/ST. NICHOLAS Bar Molino barmolino.com

Breezy Jazz House breezyjazzhouse.com

Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge cubalibrebar.com

Fore Score Golf Tavern forescoregolf.com

Hamburger Mary’s hamburgermarys.com/jax

Kava & Company–San Marco kavaandcompany.com

The Mudville Grill themudvillegrill.com

The Players Grille playersgrille.com

Posting House posting.house

Sidecar instagram.com/sidecarjax/ SOUTHSIDE Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Jax Craft Beer jaxcraftbeer.com

Secret Tiki Temple secrettikitemple.com

Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery 7bridgesgrille.com

Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com

SPRINGFIELD Crispy’s Springfield Gallery crispysspringfieldgallery.com

Historically Hoppy Brewing Company historicallyhoppy.com

Hyperion Brewing hyperionbrewing.com

Shantytown Pub facebook.com/shantytownjax

Strings Sports Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com

ST. AUGUSTINE Arnold’s Lounge arnoldslounge.com

Beacon Listening Room beaconstaug.com

Cellar Upstairs Bar at San Sebastian Winery sansebastianwinery.com

The Original Café Eleven originalcafe11.com

Prohibition Kitchen pkstaug.com

Tradewinds Lounge tradewindslounge.com

IT WAS ALWAYS ... WHO ?

It didn’t look that way in the 2020-2021 season when the team finished 1-15, which was not only a personal worst for the Jaguars but also the worst record in the league, only to be followed up with a 3-14 record. It didn’t look like that this season either when the team was in last place in their division. Yet, the Jags turned it around and clinched the AFC South with a record of 9-8 (thanks, in part, to the Tennessee Titans who lost their final seven games but who’s counting?). Even if the Jags were still rocking that losing streak, one thing is for certain, the city of Jacksonville had their backs. There was never a doubt that it was always the Jags.

The Jaguars have not had a season like this since 2017 when we were robbed of our spot in the Super Bowl because the referees were clearly on the Patriots’ payroll (P.S. Myles Jack STILL wasn’t down.) All that said, this has been a crazy season for the Jags and their fans. They started off this season much like every other, mediocre. Opening the season with a tough loss followed by a fivegame losing streak, but that didn’t deter their spirit. No, not with Doug Pederson steering the ship. It is normal for a team to need time to get used to new coaches and new players. For the Jags, it took the first half of the season, but after they got into the groove, it was game over (for the rest of the division).

I spoke with Jaguars safety—and creator of “It was always the Jags”—Andrew Wingard, who believes this team is built on love and hard work. They all love being around each other and elevating one another, both coaches and players.

“Obviously we are very confident right now, and sometimes it

takes tough losses to build character, and once you establish your character then that’s where confidence stems from,” Wingard explained. “With Doug at the helm and the culture he has established, I believe this team is in a great window of success.”

Wingard and the team expected to be in the playoffs before the season even started. They knew where they stood as a team (and where the rest of the AFC South stood.) After ridding themselves of the parasitic Meyer, there was really only one way for the Jags to go, and that was up. It is pretty impressive that during Pederson’s first year with the Jags, he brought us to the AFC South championship and a second-round playoff game.

“Losing teaches you more than winning, so it’s cool seeing all the guys who really fought through the tough times be able to experience success,” Wingard said. “We expected to be in the playoffs before the season [started]. We all manifested it and trusted God.” Even though the Jags lost to Kansas City in the playoffs, it was incredible they were even there. It was even more incredible to be watching the game at a crowded local bar hearing the “DUUUVAL” chant through the TV from Arrowhead Stadium. The city came together at home and on the road. With the rising success during this season, it gives the fans hope that next season will be even better. Good or bad, it was always the Jags.

“I came up with [the phrase] because it was always the Jags, no explanation needed, vibes only; not words,” Wingard explained. “I’m glad it’s blowing up because it’s the vibe we need, and it’s obviously working.”

Words by Carmen Macri

The Jags. That’s who.

Photo by Kam Nedd

Photo by Jamie Holt

Photo by Jamie Holt

Photo by @jortbois

unique date ideas

Words by Ambar Ramirez

If you’re thinking about planning a romantic dinner and movie night for Valentine’s Day, think again. Valentine’s Day is a great day to show the person you love how much you really love them (though, you should do this consistently), but how much does it really say about your relationship if you go on a basic date that you probably have gone on a million times?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

CANDLE MAKING AT WICK: A CANDLE BAR

Planning a candle-lit dinner, why not make the candles yourself? At the Wick: A Candle Bar in San Marco, participants get to make their own candles with their favorite scents. Bonus, if you get there early enough, you can take the candles home the same day. Just in time for that intimate candle-lit dinner. Not only are certain scents aphrodisiacs and trigger desire, but we can’t think of a better way to spend Valentine’s day than making something by hand with the person you love. wickacandlebar.com

SIP & SPIN AT THE JACKSONVILLE POTTERY STUDIO

Cue the intimate pottery wheel scene from the 1990 movie “Ghost.” This one is for all the couples that aren’t afraid to get dirty (literally and metaphorically). The Jacksonville Pottery Studio in Murray Hill is hosting a Sip and Spin event Feb. 14 from 6-7:30 p.m. And it’s a BYOB event (Bring Your Own Bottle), so you don’t have to worry about not having your preferred glass of wine.

jaxpottery.com

KEG & COIN

Is your partner the type to sit at a monitor playing games for hours? This one’s for you. As the saying goes, “If you can’t beat them, join them.” Keg & Coin is a local bar arcade that offers the best ’80s to ’90s arcade games with a wide selection of beers and IPAs. While it is a more laid-back scene for the romantic holiday, it’s the perfect spot to hit up after grabbing dinner for a fun-filled night.

kegandcoinjax.com

VALENTINE’S AT THE CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS

Don’t think I forgot about all the singles out there! Instead of spending the holiday eating a box of chocolates while watching all of your favorite rom-coms, take yourself out on a date to the Cummer Museum. From 6-7 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, the museum hosts “Love Hurts: Feuds, Falling Outs and Failed Relationships,” a guided tour of the Cummer collection focusing on stories about love and feuds in art.

cummermuseum.org

KAYAK

Enjoy being in nature? This alternative date idea is for you. Can you think of anything better than a romantic, sunset kayak ride with your partner? We can’t either. There are a couple of places in Jacksonville that offer kayak rentals but one that’s especially popular is Amelia Island Kayak Excursions. And they are open until 7 p.m. ameliaislandkayak.com

You Love Me … You Love Me Not

A look inside the flower industry and tips for Valentine’s Day

Words by Molly Britt

Flowers are one of the easiest and most thoughtful gifts you can offer someone, especially on Valentine’s Day. They show the receiver that you care and are committed without being flashy or over the top (nobody likes a show off). So, don’t want to go crazy with gifts this holiday? Buy them flowers.

A whopping 33% of all flower sales happen on Valentine’s Day. Over 250 million roses are produced for Valentine’s Day. You know what’s more interesting? Flowers have been scientifically proven to improve moods and emotions.

According to Leatrice Eisma, author and director of the Eiseman Center for Color Information & Training, flower therapy can improve emotional health, using such a simple gesture with something that grows out of the ground.

Flower therapy is a concept where certain color combinations expressed in floral arrangements stimulate and relax the senses and release happy memories. Say you want to give someone some flowers to show them you care; go with a nurturing color palette of soft pastels. Include some tulips, carnations, snapdragons, and roses. Want to show someone you love them? Try a rose-colored palette of roses, lilacs, and peonies. You can say so much to a person using simple color theories and flowers.

So, you’re getting them flowers…now what kind is best? Did you know, different flowers symbolize different things? While red roses symbolize love and passion, pink roses show admiration. White roses represent purity, and yellow roses symbolize friendship. Want to be someone’s secret admirer? Send them yellow chrysanthemums: That’s what they symbolize. Maybe you admire someone’s delicate beauty, give them orchids or hibiscuses. Want to give flowers to the first person you ever fell in love with? Try lilacs. Sunflowers can be given to show adoration, while red tulips

declare your love. Violets symbolize your faithfulness to someone, and pink tulips show you care. Like I said, flowers may not be much to you, but they can mean so much more to the person you give them to.

According to a survey by American Greetings, 65% of Americans said they “feel special when receiving flowers.” Flowers have special meaning unlike other gifts, according to 60% of Americans, and 70% say flower color adds impact. It’s not just getting flowers, though. Gifting flowers can improve your own mood, too. Giving someone you care about something thoughtful and not materialistic can make you feel good. (Maybe people can stop buying me socks, and start buying me flowers).

Buying flowers for someone is also a great way to help support small businesses without putting more plastic and trash into the world. A thoughtful and ecologically friendly gift? Say no more: I’m in.

So maybe this year we can forgo the expensive dinners and teddy bears carrying heart shaped chocolates. No need for the fancy bracelet or the pretty earrings. Go with a nice bouquet of flowers— just make sure to pick the right types and colors—and you can brighten up anyone’s day. I once heard a story of a man who went outside into a field every single day to pick his wife the flowers she liked. I know you’re thinking “awww” when you read that sentence; there’s my proof! Be that guy and show someone you love them. Just maybe don’t give a bouquet of yellow roses to someone when what you really mean is a bouquet of red tulips. Declare your feelings, not your friendship. Now, go out there and buy some flowers!

Finding Love in … Books?

A look into celebrating the month of love with a good book

Words by Molly Britt

Did you know that romance novels generate over $1.44 billion in revenue? Now you do. Why, you may ask, is romance the biggest earning genre in fiction? No idea but I do know since COVID, readership in all genres has increased. We had to find something to do inside, and if it wasn’t having pandemic babies or buying new puppies that will never know independence, it might as well be educational. No hate to the pandemic babies and puppies, but I chose the books.

Between August 2021 and August 2022, the romance genre of books has sold 19 million printed copies, increasing print sales by 36% (print will not die!), but why does this matter? Does it have anything to do with the month of February? Well, if you’re single—or not and just bored of your significant other … that’s OK— and a book lover you may know romance books can really get you through a sad day or a lonely Valentine’s Day.

There may have been a time or two of me eating chocolate and popcorn in bed while reading a particularly heart-wrenching tale of some person falling in love with a guy that in no way would be socially acceptable in real life … it happens, and you’re clearly not alone. With February being the month of love, now is the time to get yourself a good romance book. We’re not those little kids in middle school anymore being forced to read for 30 minutes a day from a book about something we really do not understand. Now we can read books we choose for fun! I know, crazy concept, but I have really gotten into it myself. I mean really into it, I may or may not read two books a day sometimes. It’s a habit I am working on.

Whether you’re like me and use books as a way to escape to a whole new unexplored world or you’re just getting through the day, a good book is always the way to go.

Say you want a new book of the month for February? Well, obviously it should be romance … or something even spicier. You’re in luck because the Indulgence Book Festival takes place Feb 11 at James Weldon Park. Between 1 and 5 p.m., you can peruse through books by romance and erotica writers. This festival includes meet-and-greets with authors and allows a place where fans of similar interests can meet and talk about their favorite books. Some of you may be thinking, why does this exist? I get it, but don’t judge before you actually read one. This festival was created for fans by fans of romance and erotica writers to come together to support their favorite genre and local authors who celebrate their creative voices used to find love and passion in this space.

There can not be much better than going to celebrate local creative voices with like-minded individuals respectfully. Let your creative freedom shine as bright as you want.

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Singles Survival Guide to Valentine

s Day

Words by Tysen Romeo

Seemingly there is nothing worse than being single when Valentine’s Day comes around. However, this Valentine’s Day we are not going to be drunk texting our exes, crying while eating a pint of ice cream or watching any early 2000s rom-coms. This Valentine’s Day we are going to love ourselves and not waste money on a pointless date that will be overlooked by the end of February.

When you’re in a relationship, Valentine’s Day comes with a few rules. You are required to get your partner a gift. You are then forced to go out to a fancy restaurant, where the steak is at least $50. Above all else, you are going to be posting the whole day on social media showing all your friends and family that you have a significant other.

Whether you have never been in a relationship, you’re recently single or have been single for a long time and still can’t get over your ex, this guide will get you through this sadistic holiday created solely for couples.

This Valentine’s Day treat yourself, buy that thing that has been in your

cart for a while. Get those clothes that you have been looking for. If fast fashion isn’t your thing, then go thrifting. While you’re at it grab some candles and a bath bomb, so you can treat yourself to a nice cozy bath. Make sure you also look up a fun recipe to make and get the ingredients while you’re out. Don’t forget to grab some cookies you can bake for dessert.

If you aren’t in the spending mood, don’t fret. Read that book that has been sitting on your bedside table. Grab a journal and write out those thoughts that are clouding your mind. Reflect on those goals you made in January and really try to commit to them. Create a mood board and dive deep into that Pinterest aesthetic. While you’re at it grab a canvas and some paint and create a cute painting to hang up in your room.

For those of you hoping for a valentine, you may have been looking in the wrong place. Screw the rules of Valentine’s Day, and if you’re a pet owner, take your little buddy to the park and show them the most love you have to offer. You’re both in this together and they have your back.

Make sure they aren’t feeling lonely this Valentine’s Day either and treat them too.

Not a pet owner? Tidy up then. Make your bed, pick up your clothes and grab your broom or vacuum. There is nothing better to boost your mood than cleaning up your living space. Put your favorite record on and really get into the zone. Singing along to favorite tunes makes cleaning so much better. Show off those moves. No one is watching, so shake it off and bust a move.

After cleaning up, you have no excuse not to invite some of your single friends over for a fun singles party. No one said single people aren’t allowed to party on Valentine’s Day. Sometimes parties can be a little much and require a lot of cleaning up, so if you aren’t interested in partying, you can always spend some time just to yourself.

There are so many things you can do when you are single on Valentine’s Day. The day may be about finding love, but who said that love can’t be found within and for yourself? This Valentine’s Day don’t let those feelings get to you and stay positive because sooner or later you will never be single on Valentine’s Day again. Unless you want to.

Black History Month 2023: The Year of Resistance

The constant news headlines reporting brutality aimed at the Black community is a reminder that the past can and will repeat if we do not actively try to stop it. As we step into 2023, let us not forget it.

February is Black History Month, and the theme this year is “resistance.” We need to take time to acknowledge those among the Black community who have resisted the status quo and continue to stand up to the leaders of our country in order to fight for what is right … racial equality and civil justice.

As a city with a prominent Black community and a rich history, it is not hard to see what this community has gone through in the fight for basic civil rights throughout the years. As mentioned many times, we cannot repeat the past, or we are doomed for the future. In order to do so, we need to examine what happened in the past.

In 1866, the oldest historically Black college in Florida was founded in Jacksonville and named Edward Waters College. This is where Major League Baseball’s first Black manager Jordan “Buck” O’Neil Jr. attended school after leaving Sarasota to get a quality education. It was one of only four high schools to exist in Florida that allowed Black students to attend. O’Neil’s baseball career jumped off here. Jacksonville was a jumping-off point for many who wanted to fight for their rights.

Jacksonville is where James Weldon Johnson heard Frederick Douglass’ speech and became inspired by his passion and perseverance. Johnson went on to teach at Stanton Elementary School before expanding the school to a high school after being named principal. He studied law and became the first Black man admitted to the Florida Bar since Reconstruction. He is widely known as a singer, songwriter, poet, educator, lawyer, and civil rights leader but probably best known for writing the lyrics to “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” (aka “the Black National Anthem”) with his brother John Rosamond Johnson providing the music.

In 1904 Eartha White funded the Clara White Mission we know today. The organization initially offered services not otherwise available to Black residents and is now a 100+ year old organization dedicated to serving the needs of the less fortunate. Eartha White later became the director of the National Anti-Lynching Committee for Florida in 1922. She pushed to eradicate lynching and push for legislation prohibiting it. Since then, the mission White founded has grown exponentially to help and protect more and more local residents in need of their services.

Many others have made their historical marks in Jacksonville in the fight for civil rights. In 1952, celebrated musician Marian Anderson became the first musician in Florida’s modern history to perform in front of an interracial audience after refusing to sing in a theater with segregated seating.

It wasn’t just major political and educational historic moments that occurred during Jacksonville’s fight for racial justice. Did you know the curly fry is said to have been invented in Moncrief? Wendy Holley’s uncle Leroy made the machine that curled fries. Moncrief’s Holley’s BBQ has been around since 1937 and is rumored to have been the start of curly fries. It’s said by his niece that he couldn’t get a patent on the machine because he was unable to read and write. So now you know…we can thank Moncrief for the invention of the best fry ever.

So, while we get through the month and happen along the hidden and not so hidden corners of Jacksonville, let’s not forget the historic steps that those in Jacksonville’s Black community took and continue to take to be heard and seen.

Words by Molly Britt

You Haven’t Seen the Last Of Us

What Happens When One of the Most Popular Video Games Becomes a TV Series? ‘The Last of Us’ might be the first to get it right

Words by Tysen Romeo

The Last of Us, a video game originally released on PlayStation 3 in 2013, is now one of the most critically acclaimed new TV series with only a couple of episodes out so far. While the gamers adore how devoted the script and setting are to the game, critics are amazed by the performances of Pedro Pascal (as Joel) and Bella Ramsey (as Ellie). As a gamer myself, let me tell you, the story that unfolds is full of emotion and is thrilling ’til the end.

Without letting out any spoilers (yet), here is the basic plot: Set in a dystopian 2023, “The Last of Us” tells the story of a fungus that has taken over the world and humans … specifically, their brains. Yes, “The Last of Us” is a video game about zombies. Not only does the game have gripping moments packed with the undead, but it also has a beautiful story about an old father and a lost girl. Connected only by the cruelness of the world they live in, Joel and Ellie are forced to travel from Boston to Salt Lake City. The monsters they face are not always the zombies but also the alive and aware.

The creative minds behind “The Last of Us” TV series are Neil Druckmann, writer of the original video game, and Craig Mazin, creator of the HBO mini-series “Chernobyl,” and they make an incredible team. The production level of this show is amazing, and the care they took with casting, sound, sets, directing and cinematography really puts this show over the edge. HBO originals are known for their serious tones and crude displays which really allows “The Last of Us” to thrive. With the production value this show has so far, I feel like I am playing the game for the first time and witnessing the enthralling story all over again too.

Video game adaptations don’t always receive this kind of praise by gamers or critics. There are many beloved games that have failed theatrical adaptations like “Mortal Kombat,” “Tomb Raider,” “Uncharted” and “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter.” Whether the stories were too different from the game, the acting didn’t compare to the game’s original actors or the production team wasn’t putting the right effort into the project, there was always something these adaptations lacked. Whatever they were lacking, “The Last of Us” is packing.

*SPOILER WARNING* To me, the first episode alone is enough to draw non-gamers into the dramatic story, in this case, a dad grieving the loss of his daughter. The episode starts out as a normal day in 2003 with Joel, the dad, and Sarah, his daughter, going through their regular daily routine. Yet that night, explosions and sirens wake them up, and they discover something bad is happening. After barely escaping a zombie, they are approached by a soldier who was ordered to kill them. Joel was holding Sarah

in his arms when the soldier fired his rifle at them. Fortunately, Joel’s brother, Tommy, stepped in, killing the soldier and saving his brother’s life. Sadly, Sarah couldn’t be saved and died in her father’s arms.

Witnessing these first few moments alone back in 2013 when I watched YouTuber TheRadBrad play The Last of Us, I was convinced that this story and game were going to be so spectacular. I remember all the times I played the game and watched other people play it as well. It’s a core memory for me. I can recall the emotions I felt when I was playing, the heartbreak I had and the tension I felt playing this game. I value this game because of the action and also the tender moments it has. Getting to watch this series all over again and feel these emotions is bliss. I know for many gamers, this series changed their lives and the way they display their emotions.

“The Last of Us” at its core is about raw emotions, brutality and vengeance. Despite the frightening and violent situation they find themselves in, Joel and Ellie, who became an orphan as a result of the outbreak, are able to bond and create a relationship that is so caring and poetic, and one that I envy. At first, Joel’s stubborn and intimidating nature made him shy away from caring for Ellie as he never wanted to feel a loss again like he did with his daughter. By the end of the journey, however, he begins to care for Ellie like she is his own. At the same time, he is tasked with the ultimate decision regarding her life and the lives of millions of others.

To get to see this series again, in a new type of way is almost therapeutic. “The Last of Us” is captivating enough as a series to gain new fans who never even heard of the game. Hopefully, these new viewers are able to appreciate the art put into the original video game and play the game as well, so they can experience the same emotions I and other gamers feel by watching the story in a completely new way.

If you haven’t already, check out the series on HBO on Demand or watch Sundays at 9 p.m. Sometimes video games can make for a badass TV show.

After what I thought was a lovely date, I dropped him off at his house. He proceeded to get out of my car, turn around, and throw a whole ass Philly cheesesteak and large Dr Pepper at my face through the window. Turns out he was on drugs. I sent him to rehab. There was not a second date.

Woke up at a guy’s house and he offered me a shirt (so nice right? Chivalry isnt dead… so I thought.) Anyway, he was in his closet for like 10 minutes. I was so confused as to why he was taking so long to pick out a shirt. That is when he turned to me and said “I just can’t find a shirt that screams, ‘See you never.’” I have never been so humbled.

I don’t know if this counts since it was hours after our date, but the man I went on a date with got a little too intoxicated and wound up falling asleep during intercourse. I quite literally mean DURING intercourse. Connect the dots with that one.

Met a guy at the bar, knew he was older but wasn’t sure how much older.. We wound up hitting it off, and I went home with him. He had told me his kids were home but sleeping soundly. Turns out he has several kids, his oldest being 19 (I was 21 at the time). Long story short, I went to high school with not one but two of his kids. Literally snuck out of his window in case they recognized me.

YOUR WORST DATES EVER

One time, after a date, rather than a kiss or a hug, a man shook my hand. It was very sad and limp.

Fishing at Amelia by Brandi Prine

TUFF TURF

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

3 JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS

Punk sonic band Tuff Turf formed by Jacksonville Beach resident Jeff Richie just released three new tracks that kick ASS! If you’re into punk sonic music, that is.

The entire album, “Dead Heat,” will be released digitally on Feb. 3 with tracks including “Fuel Injected/ Fired Up,” “Rebel Heart” and “Dead ’23.” All songs were written, recorded, performed, mixed and mastered by Richie.

Considered a unique voice in the burgeoning synthwave scene, the band, according to their website, “[removes] much of the neon-video-game-nostalgia in favor of a more masculine, brooding and punk sonic and visual landscape” with the new album described as “a shotgun blast of short-but-sweet new wave punk anthems.”

2 THE FRONTMEN FEAT. RICHIE MCDONALD OF LONESTAR, LARRY STEWART OF RESTLESS HEART & TIM RUSHLOW OF LITTLE TEXAS

3 BOBBY WEIR & WOLF BROS. FEAT. THE WOLF PACK

4 DISNEY’S WINNIE THE POOH: THE NEW MUSICAL STAGE

5 KEVIN JAMES

4 ONES: BEATLES #1 HITS

5 QUEENSRŸCHE

9 LITTLE RIVER BAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST PABLO CRUISE

10 BILLY JOEL LEGENDS LIVE! THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET

MAY

3 LEONID & FRIENDS - THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO

5 JOHN CRIST

8 GIPSY KINGS FT. TONINO BALIARDO

10 ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN

13 JACKSONVILLE DANCE THEATRE

14 BRIAN REGAN

16 THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS

20 THE FLORIDA THEATRE BALL: BIG EASY STYLE PRESENTED BY DEX IMAGING

23 BRIT FLOYD: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

2 TREY

Words by Teresa Spencer