Challenge Day was celebrated at Terry Parker High School November 13-15, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. each day. Over 120 students and volunteers participated in the Challenge Day activities. Challenge Day programs go beyond traditional anti-bullying efforts, building empathy and igniting a movement of compassion and positive change.

Mayor Alvin Brown, in support of the city’s Week of Valor, visited Highlands Middle School where he joined three active duty servicemen to speak to students. The message to the students was that Veterans and active duty personnel ensure the freedoms that we all enjoy. The Mayor emphasized his priority on education and he encouraged the students to excel in their studies.

The 10th Annual Jacksonville Film Festival is this week, November 1 - 4.  To see a full schedule, see previews of the films, events and workshops, to volunteer, or to purchase tickets. For more info please visit www.jaxfilmfest.com.

The venues for the Jax Film Fest are San Marco Theatre, Jacksonville Public Library, Florida Theatre - and for the first time - Ponte Vedra Concert Hall.

Jacksonville has some great afterschool programs. So great that they are drawing national attention and $765,000 in support from The Wallace Foundation, a New York-based organization that focuses on innovative ideas to support learning.

Learn more in Mayor Alvin Brown's Blog

The City of Jacksonville Sports & Entertainment Office announced on Wednesday that the 2012 Navy-Marine Corps Classic will be presented by Florida Blue.

“We’re excited to have Florida Blue come on as the presenting sponsor for this great event,” said Mayor Alvin Brown. “We have a tremendous group of corporate partners working with us to make this event a memorable part of the Week of Valor.”

U.S. to face Brazil in first round tie

The United States will begin its chase for the 2013 Davis Cup title when it hosts Brazil in a first round tie at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.

The matches are set for Feb. 1 – 3, with the two teams facing off in a best-of-five series for the right to advance to the second round and face the winner of the Serbia-Belgium match.

“Hosting the Davis Cup competition represents a great opportunity for our city to receive the global attention it deserves,” said Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown. “The word is getting out: Jacksonville is a premier city for major sporting events. Our city’s selection emerged from a highly competitive process and it goes to show that we have the staff, facilities and expertise to create a marquis experience that will delight the thousands of fans headed our way. We have a tremendous tennis community that is eager to engage in a first-class tennis event at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.”

The winners of the 2012 Mayor Brown Essay Contest have been named. Contest winners will be honored by Mayor Alvin Brown at an Award Ceremony at City Hall to be held at a later date. 

Mayor Alvin Brown met with Major Betty Myrthil, minority admissions officer for West Point military academy, in his office at City Hall on Sept. 12. Dr. Donnie Horner will be traveling to West Point in November to coordinate details for Mayor Brown's joint summer program with the esteemed military academy.

Dr. Donnie Horner, Education Commissioner, submits his First Quarter Report for 2012.

Weeklong activities highlight the benefits of a college education

Mayor Alvin Brown and Duval County Public Schools have partnered to bring forth several activities in conjunction with “Jacksonville Goes to College Week.” Students throughout the city will participate in various activities highlighting the college entrance process and benefits of a college education during programs scheduled Friday, Oct. 5 through Saturday, Oct. 13.