Riverside Runs and River City Shivers: Your Saturday Morning Briefing

The Mood of the City: Shivering with Spirit

Jacksonville wakes up today, Saturday, January 31, 2026, to a rare and bracing chill. The local mood is one of quiet resilience as the city navigates a significant cold snap that has triggered the expansion of cold-weather center services across the region. With an extreme cold watch in effect for the weekend, the usual outdoor bustle has been replaced by a focused effort to 'protect the four Ps': people, pets, pipes, and plants. Despite the frostier-than-average air, there is a warmth found in the community’s gathering for local causes, proving that the 'Bold New City of the South' doesn't freeze up when the temperatures drop.

A Key Talking Point: The Reality of the 'Stadium of the Future'

Civic conversation this morning is dominated by the visible progress—and the growing pains—of the EverBank Stadium transformation. As we enter the 2026 construction phase, the reality of the "Stadium of the Future" is hitting home for Jaguars fans. Capacity for the upcoming season is being officially capped at approximately 43,500 to 45,500 to accommodate massive structural upgrades, including the closure of the upper bowl. While team leadership remains optimistic about the 'condensed intensity' of a packed lower bowl, the backdrop of reported $100 million in cost overruns and the looming 2027 season in Orlando or Gainesville remains a hot topic at every coffee shop in Duval.

Feel-Good Story: Every Mile Brings a Smile

While some are staying indoors, hundreds of neighbors are currently gathering at the Winston Family YMCA in Riverside for the 17th Annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge. This heartwarming event continues its mission to support Wolfson Children’s Rehabilitation, funding therapy for children with sensory and movement difficulties. Today’s highlights include:

• The Wolfson 55: The celebration of 55 patient ambassadors who represent the specialized care provided by the hospital.
• The Mission Moment: Runners in the 5K and 1-mile fun run will experience a special route pass by the hospital windows, where patients and staff are known to cheer from above.
• Kids Village: A lively hub featuring the Jaguars D-Line, Jaxson de Ville, and the ROAR to keep spirits high despite the morning cold.

Saturday Quick-Hits

• On the Ice: The Jacksonville Icemen take on the South Carolina Stingrays tonight at 7:00 PM at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
• Music & Lights: The Jacksonville Symphony presents "Silly Love Songs" at Jacoby Hall, while the Public Library hosts candlelight tributes to Adele and Queen.
• Downtown Shifts: Following recent news that Intuition Ale Works will close its doors this April, today is a perfect day to visit our local downtown merchants.