by Caroline Gabsewics
Staff Writer
Members of JCCI Forward went on a safari last week — but it was nowhere near the jungle.
JCCI Forward hosted “Urban Safari: Destination Springfield,” offering its members an opportunity to learn more about historic Springfield. The group’s first Urban Safari was in June and took members through Downtown Jacksonville.
JCCI Forward is a program of the Jacksonville Community Council Inc. (JCCI) for young professionals.
“The purpose of it (the safari) was to allow people to go out and tour areas of Jacksonville and learn more about the community,” said Samantha Minton, communications director for JCCI. “It acts as one of the leadership development workshops.”
Minton said they decided to tour Springfield because of the revitalization occurring in one of Jacksonville’s oldest neighborhoods.
The group met at the Springfield Preservation & Revitalization Council (SPAR) and boarded a bus for the neighborhood and homes tour. Stops included three historic buildings: Bethel Baptist Church, Meeks Ross & Paulk CPA Firm, and Caitlin Motors. The tour ended with a walking tour of three homes in Springfield.
A moderated panel discussion about the “Visions of Springfield” was held at the Karpeles Manuscript Museum. The panel, facilitated by City Council member Don Gaffney included: Louise DeSpain, president of SPAR; Chris Hionides, of Petra Management; Joel McEachin, manager of the Planning and Development department of the City of Jacksonville; and Jennifer Holbrook, of SRG Homes.
Minton said the safari ended with storytelling about, “Springfield’s Rich History” at the restaurant/bar 9th & Main.
The event was sponsored by Petra Management, Meeks Ross & Paulk CPA Firm and SRG — all of which are located in the Springfield area.
Minton said JCCI Forward hopes to continue to offer the Urban Safaris.
Upcoming JCCI Forward events include:
• Forum: “Through the Looking Glass: A Vision for Jacksonville” - Nov. 8 5:30-7 p.m. at JCCI, 2434 Atlantic Blvd.
• “Public Speaking: Facing a Fear Worse than Death” - every Tuesday beginning Nov. 6-Dec. 18 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at JCCI.