By: Evan Grimm

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 In May 2024, Julington Creek Plantation Park closed its doors for construction and renovation. Its plan was to take the park and completely revitalize it to give the community a fresh, modernized look for the community.

It also worked to ensure a more inclusive, family-friendly environment for children and adults of all ages to gather and enjoy. The biggest change that was implemented was the redesign of the playground. It saw the park grounds change from a vanilla playground with your average swings and slide to a vibrant new playground filled with fresh equipment and rock wall features for the children to climb on and enjoy. 

     The project started after the Julington Creek community saw changes in their golf course just at the other end of the roundabout, showing their constituents that the community was willing to make the changes necessary to modify and enhance the area. The result showed to be a vibrant, multipurpose area that is designed to serve one of Northeast Florida’s most active neighborhoods. Many of the changes made were made using community input and feedback, as well as long-term needs for the neighborhood. 

Now, the new park and amenity center in Julington Creek is open, and the community has welcomed it with open arms, with the park being filled to the brim with people at all hours of the day ever since it reopened. As the community continues to expand, leaders of Julington Creek say that the new facilities that were implemented ensure that Julington Creek remains an example of thoughful, future-minded neighborhood planning. 

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By: RJ Spearman

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Eartha’s Farmers Market is quickly becoming one of Jacksonville’s most vibrant community spaces, offering more than just fresh produce; it is creating connections.  

Held regularly in the heart of the neighborhood, the market brings together local growers, small vendors, and residents who are passionate about healthy living and sustainable choices. Shoppers can explore tables filled with leafy greens, seasonal fruits, herbs, handmade goods and culturally inspired foods that reflect the diversity of the community. 

One of the standout features of Eartha’s Farmers Market is its mission. The market is part of a larger effort to address food accessibility by bringing fresh, affordable ingredients directly to families who need them most. Vendors and workers say it is not just a place to shop; it is a place to learn, gather, and celebrate local talent. Many vendors share stories behind their products, giving visitors a deeper look at the work and care that goes into every item. 

As the market continues to grow, it is becoming a symbol of empowerment in Jacksonville. Workers like Bianca strive to get more people to learn about the Market and give it a shot. Eartha’s Farmers Market isn’t just improving food options; it’s strengthening relationships and building pride within the community. A community that was once forgotten. A community that wants to be heard.  

For many, it’s a weekly reminder of what can happen when people come together around good food and good intentions. 

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By: Crystal Branch

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Celebration Church, found at 9555 R.G. Skinner Parkway, opened its doors and its heart to the Jacksonville community on November 22, 2025, during its annual Thanksgiving food giveaway.

This year, the church distributed essentials: groceries, diapers, baby formula, bottled water, hygiene supplies, and—just as importantly—prayer and encouragement to 508 families. That number does not include the other groceries handed out during both the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, where even more individuals received support. 

Earlier in the month, on November 2, 2025, Pastor Tim Timberlake encouraged his church congregation to donate twenty canned goods each in response to the ongoing government shutdown, which had significantly affected food benefits across the nation. In just one week, more than 100,000 items were given, displaying the generosity, unity, and compassion of the congregation long before the main event even began. From the moment families began arriving on the church grounds on November 22, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude, hope, and genuine compassion. Smiles lit up faces as community members were greeted not only with practical resources but with heartfelt conversations, warm prayer, and the reassurance that they are seen and cared for. For many, these acts of kindness made the start of the holiday season more meaningful. 

Dozens of church members volunteered their time, energy, and talents to make this event possible. Ministers offered prayer and spiritual support. Choir members welcomed families with joy and hospitality. Bible study teachers stepped in wherever help was needed. Even the camera crew worked diligently to document the event, capturing the love and service at the core of Celebration Church’s mission. 

The church, led by Pastor Tim Timberlake, has long prioritized outreach as a central part of its ministry. The annual Thanksgiving food giveaway has become a tradition rooted in the belief that faith is best expressed through action. In addition to this event, the church also hosts an annual Christmas toy drive, ensuring that children in need experience joy during the holiday season. 

For many families, the support they received was more than material—it was spiritual. Volunteers prayed with parents, encouraged individuals going through hardship and reminded everyone that they are not alone. In a season that can be difficult for those facing financial burdens, Celebration Church provides a space of comfort, dignity and hope. 

Anyone in need of food, aid, or prayer is always welcome at Celebration Church.  

With doors open year-round, the church continues to be a place where the community can find support, compassion, and the uplifting power of faith. 

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