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 City of Jacksonville, U.S. Naval Station Mayport, and the cities of Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach are proud to present the 2012 Jacksonville Sea & Sky Spectacular, Oct. 20-21, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., in Jacksonville Beach.

“The Sea and Sky Spectacular will be a fun, family-friendly opportunity to get an up-close look at some of the world’s most talented aviators as they pilot high-performance and unique aircrafts along our beautiful coastline,” said Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown. “The City of Jacksonville is proud to take part in this great event with numerous community partners, the Beaches' cities and our dedicated Armed Forces members to ensure a quality experience for all.”

This free event will feature military and civilian flight teams, recruitment displays, interactive and static displays, live entertainment, the Mini-Boss Kids Area presented by ACUVUE, Aviator Autographs presented by VyStar Credit Union, food and beverage vendors, and more. Premier Viewing and Corporate Cabana areas will also be offered.

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. 

The City of Jacksonville celebrates 90 years of a classic rivalry. The University of Georgia Bulldogs will take home field against the University of Florida Gators on Saturday, Oct. 27, at 3:30 p.m. at EverBank Field.

“It’s my honor to welcome back the thousands of fans who have made this classic college football matchup a tradition that puts a spotlight on Jacksonville,” said Mayor Alvin Brown. “This is one of the most exciting times of the year in our city, and I’d like to thank everyone from the athletes to the staff and volunteers for the important roles they play in creating an unbeatable experience right in the heart of our city.”

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.

Celebration of Afterschool Programs

Dr. Donnie Horner, the education commissioner for the City of Jacksonville will present a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Alvin Brown at the 13th Annual Lights On Afterschool celebration at North Shore Elementary School on Thrusday, Oct. 18. Honored guests include Jill Dame, Interim Executive Director for the Jacksonville Children's Commission; Felicia Hardaway,Principal of North Shore Elementary; Dr. Davalu Parrish, Executive Director of the Bridge of Northeast Florida; and the Honorable Dr. Johnny Gaffney, Jacksonville City Councilman for District 7.

Series of events will honor veterans, educate the public, and celebrate the lives of veterans

Highlighting Jacksonville’s commitment to the military and veterans, Mayor Alvin Brown and an array of community leaders announced a major weeklong series of events to honor and celebrate the contributions of current and former armed forces members and military families.

The Week of Valor in November serves as a way to come together as a community and honor those who serve, reflect on their sacrifices and celebrate their lives.

The Week of Valor kicks off Monday, Nov. 5, with a military appreciation luncheon sponsored by the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. The national spotlight on the city’s deep ties to the military and veteran communities will include two major sporting events.