The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation announced their 2011 11 Most Endangered Historic Sites list at the Annual Statewide Preservation Conference, in Central Florida, on May 19, 2011. The sites are not ranked in any particular order.

Fire Station # 5, Jacksonville

Fire Station #5 is the oldest and most recognized historic building on Riverside Avenue in downtown Jacksonville’s Brooklyn neighborhood.  It was designed by Robert Lee Sevil in 1910. The land on which the building stands was sold by the city to Fidelity National Financial, Inc. in 2009.  The building is currently vacant, unmaintained, and has been the target of repeated vandalism.  Some city officials are in support of the preservation of the building but are concerned over costs for relocation and rehabilitation. The site is added to the 2011 list due to the potential for demolition caused by redevelopment pressure.

Students at Fletcher Middle Participate in the Opening of the Beaches Parade

Four students from Fletcher Middle School participated in the Opening of the Beaches Parade with Friends of Jacksonville Animals (FOJA). The girls were asked to participate by the FOJA beach committee.

In addition to walking the dogs and hyping the crowd during the parade, the girls designed posters, flyers and decorations for the float. The theme was “Rock Star” and they gave the dogs names such as “Mick Wagger” and “Elvis Pawsley.” The girls continued volunteering at FOJA’s adoption event after the parade. Four of the dogs found potential homes thanks to students’ efforts.

This project began in December during a service-learning lesson in the classroom. During a unit on research and communication, the students studied and discussed pet overpopulation.

Freedom, Fanfare & Fireworks

July 4

Independence Day celebration, festivities include a majestic fireworks show over the St. Johns River in Downtown Jacksonville and other special engagements.