by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
‘Tis the season to be jolly – and the season to experience sights and sounds that are only in the air this time of year. Add aromas to that list when you visit the Rotary Gingerbread Extravaganza 2007 at Old St. Andrews Church on A. Philip Randolph Boulevard across the street from the Arena and next door to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.
One of Jacksonville’s most historic buildings is the venue for this year’s display of edible art that raises funds for HabiJax, Ronald McDonald House and the Jacksonville Historical Society (JHS), which is hosting the event at its headquarters for the first time.
Dozens of gingerbread houses constructed by amateurs and professionals are on display this year and will compete for awards in several categories including “Best Replica of a Jacksonville Landmark” and “Best Traditional Holiday design.” U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Gerald Tjoflat, Olympic gold medalist Shannon Miller and Times-Union food columnist Dan McDonald are this year’s panel of judges.
Gingerbread renditions of the Florida Theatre, the clock at the corner of Julia and Adams streets Downtown and a McDonald’s restaurant complete with the golden arches are among this year’s entries.
It’s also the first time five Rotary Clubs are involved, said Les Loggins of the Rotary Club of Southside, which has sponsored the event for the past five years. Rotary Clubs from Bartram Trail, Mandarin, Oceanside and North Jacksonville have joined the effort that has raised more than $350,000 since its debut in 2003.
“We’d like to get every Rotary Club in Jacksonville involved in this project. This year is our first step,” said Loggins.
In addition to the edible display, the Historical Society has also set up a collection of books and DVDs that detail Jacksonville’s architectural and cultural heritage and make great holiday gifts, said JHS Executive Director Emily Lisska.
“We just think this wonderful event and the historic setting in the old church are a perfect match,” she said.
Beginning Friday, Gingerbread Extravaganza 2007 will be open to the public every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Dec. 20. The donation is $5 for adults, $2 for children (3-16), under 3 years admitted free. For information, visit www.rotarycharity.org.