by David Chapman
Staff Writer
There was an unveiling, an anniversary and even Argentinean tango dancing during Wednesday’s Art Walk. As the event’s name suggests, there was plenty of art, too.
The monthly event brought out a crowd as well over a thousand people flocked Downtown to see works of art, socialize and partake in different festivities.
LISC Jacksonville, a nonprofit organization that provides funding and technical assistance to community development corporations (CDC’s), celebrated its 10th anniversary with a party and gallery viewing at the Jacksonville Bank lobby. The gallery featured photos taken by youths who live in the communities that both LISC and the CDCs have supported through affordable housing creation and commercial revitalization.
“It’s a great day for us,” said Joni Foster, LISC Jacksonville Executive Director. “The first five years were really tough, but we’ve helped many of the CDCs from their beginning and we’ll continue to help them keep doing great things.”
Officials of the Jacksonville Public Library kicked off their library awareness campaign by unveiling a new library card before a crowd of close to 100 people, who heard stories from several people on how their library cards have aided them.
“We want to encourage everyone in Jacksonville to use our public libraries,” said Library Director Barbara Gubbin. “We want to make them aware of all of the services we provide free of charge. We offer something for everyone.”
All in all, Art Walk was another successful “Make a Scene Downtown” event and has come a long way from its roots, said one Downtown official.
“It was a terrific event and you can just see how much Art Walk has grown,” said Terry Lorince, “This is a great example of what works and we’re going to continue to improve on its success.”
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