by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
LaVilla School of the Arts’ newest teacher says he not only loves working downtown, Chris Townsend also tries to play here as much as he can.
“I love the vibe and the atmosphere here,” said Townsend, a Jacksonville native who teaches creative writing. “I live in Atlantic Beach and there’s obviously a really sharp contrast there. In my opinion, I get to experience the best of both of Jacksonville’s worlds.”
Among Townsend’s favorite downtown attractions is the view.
“Believe it or not,” he said, “every morning I look forward to seeing the sun come up over all of the buildings while I’m driving in. It’s incredible to watch and I don’t even have to drink coffee because I can smell it brewing down at the plant.”
And after the bell rings in the afternoon, Townsend said he’s in no rush to get back to the beach.
“Don’t get me wrong, the beach is a great place to be, but downtown is going through some widespread changes right now,” he said. “It’s really improving in ways that no one thought possible a few years ago.
“Look at what’s happening on Bay Street. That’s really going to change a lot of people’s perceptions, I think.”
Townsend said he frequents the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville and, as a self-professed music lover, regularly catches shows at the Florida Theatre and the Imperial.
“I think there’s something for everyone here,” he said. “No matter what you’re into, you should have no trouble enjoying yourself while you’re here.
“I never do.”
And what about working at LaVilla?
Townsend, formerly of Arlington Country Day School, said working with children who are serious about improving their writing is a definite coup.
“That’s one of the best things about working at LaVilla,” he said. “The kids are amazing, truly gifted. In the short time I’ve been here I’ve already been able to see that. They’re passionate about making the most of what they already have and I really have to admire that.”