Jacksonville and Pop Culture
Jacksonville is Florida’s largest city. It sits in the northeast corner of the state, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The city has a long history as a cultural center and mixing ground for diverse people, which makes it a major contributor to the cultural tapestry of the nation. Once a home to the early motion picture industry, Jacksonville has also played a strong role in the music scene. It has been the source of inspiration to writers like Stephen Crane, musicians like Pat Boone, and artists of all kinds. Jacksonville has certainly made its share of cultural contributions.
Film and TV
Image via Flickr by Michel Curi
Before Hollywood, there was Jacksonville. As the center of filmmaking in the silent film era, it has earned its place in the annals of the film industry. Those days are gone now, but that doesn’t mean Jacksonville doesn’t play a new part in movies and TV shows. It has appeared in episodes of Antiques Roadshow, Criminal Minds, House Hunters, and many more. The hit NBC sitcom, “The Good Place,” has Jacksonville as the hometown of one of its main characters, Jason Mendoza (Manny Jacinto), who often references his shenanigans in the city and his pride for his home team, the Jaguars.
Jacksonville is the filming location for a list of movies, including the sequel to “Creature from the Black Lagoon” called “Revenge of the Creature.” Most of this classic creature movie is shot in Florida, and the Jacksonville locations included the Lobster House, a restaurant that once stood near the southern end of Jacksonville’s Acosta Bridge. This site is now occupied by the River City Brewery. The Lobster House is clearly visible in the movie, as is the Jacksonville night skyline. Other movies filmed here include “G.I. Jane,” “The Devil’s Advocate,” and “The Manchurian Candidate” (2004).
Music and Bands
The most famous band to come out of Jacksonville — Lynyrd Skynyrd — created such widely recognized classic hits as “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” They originally formed in 1964 under another name, but after five years and several lineup changes, they emerged as Lynyrd Skynyrd. In 1977, the lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, and several other members of the band tragically died when their chartered plane ran out of fuel. Ten years later, the band reformed with some of its surviving members. Ronnie’s brother Johnny stepped in as lead vocalist and primary songwriter.
Other bands from Jacksonville include the Burch Sisters, a country music group of three sisters: Cathy, Charlene, and Cindy Burch. Their hit debut single, “Everytime You Go Outside I Hope It Rains,” reached the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart in 1988. It was the only one of their songs to do so, and they were a short-lived trio. A newer group out of the area is Black Kids, an indie rock band formed in 2006. Their second album, Partie Traumatic, debuted at number five on the UK Albums Chart in 2008.
Famous People
Jacksonville has its share of notable names, not least of which is Pat Boone. Born here on June 1st, 1934, he’s an award-winning singer and actor. A highly popular pop singer in the 1950s and early 1960s, he has sold more than 45 million albums throughout his career. He had 38 Top 40 hits, and appeared in over a dozen Hollywood movies. Another Jacksonville-born entertainer is Barbie Blank, a model, actress, and former professional wrestler known by the ring name Kelly Kelly. She’s an overall two-time champion in WWE and is on the reality television series WAGS.
Also born in Jacksonville is Diana Eng, a Chinese-American fashion designer and technologist, who is best known as a contestant on season 2 of Project Runway. She was eliminated in the sixth episode but was chosen to help with a garment at the finale by the contestant who went on to win the season.
A familiar face from Jacksonville is Ashley Greene, an actress, and model, who you might recognize as Alice Cullen in the Twilight Saga film series. She has also appeared in “A Warrior’s Heart,” “Summer’s Blood,” and “The Apparition.” She received The Style Icon Award in 2010.
Art and Literature
Author of the beloved book “A Wrinkle in Time,” Madeleine L’Engle spent part of her youth near Jacksonville. She moved there with the rest of her family in1933 to take care of her ill grandmother. L’Engle is a widely respected writer of imaginative young adult fiction as well as fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. She passed away in 2007.
Stephen Crane spent some time in Jacksonville in 1896. Here, he met Cora Taylor who became his common-law wife. Crane was working undercover on a steamship when it sank off the coast of Daytona Beach, which was the basis for his short story, The Open Boat.
The Impressionist painter Frederick Carl Frieseke lived with an uncle in Jacksonville as a child. It was decades later in Giverny, the village made famous by Claude Monet, that he painted “Hunting Alligators, Pink Sea” and “Fishing, Jacksonville,” from memory. He spent much of his life in France, but always regarded his time in Florida fondly. Not only painters have been inspired by the beauty of northern Florida; architect and author Robert C. Broward also lived in Jacksonville, Florida. A student of Frank Lloyd Wright, he designed over 500 buildings and spaces, specializing in water features and incorporating the work of local artists.
Music, art, film, architecture, and writing all make Jacksonville the marvelous place it is today. There’s a reason it keeps popping up in TV shows and is frequently used as the location or setting in films, art, and books. From the pioneers of the silent film industry to the talents of Lynyrd Skynyrd, this city has seen it all. What’s your favorite piece of pop culture trivia about Jacksonville? At Keith Pierson Toyota we’d love to hear which cultural aspects you love the most about the great city of Jacksonville. Drop us a line and give us your thoughts.
5 Best BBQ Places in Jacksonville, Florida
If you’re in the Sunshine state and have a hankering for some barbecue, there are several places you can go to cure that craving. Although known for its tropical climate and beautiful landscape, the food served up in Jacksonville, Florida, should be as famous as Florida orange juice. Some of the best BBQ places in Jacksonville regularly serve anything from smoked sausage, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and tender brisket with a beautiful smoke ring. Grab yourself a wet towelette, bib, and cozy pants so you can enjoy some of the best barbecue in the southeastern United States.
The Bearded Pig
A fun and inviting restaurant, yet small and intimate, The Bearded Pig is perfect for a quiet date for two or a full family meal. With indoor seating and outdoor picnic tables available, you can choose to cool off from the Florida heat or sit outside for the ultimate experience in Southern barbecue. Also a beer garden, there is a rotating selection of draft beers on tap that pair nicely with the large servings provided. Adding to the unique atmosphere of The Bearded Pig, they serve meals on brown paper-lined trays and deliver many drinks to thirsty patrons in mason jars. The quirky presentation and friendly staff is just sauce on the goodness that is their BBQ.
Order some burnt ends, smoked sausage, and pulled pork to enjoy in this establishment near the St. Johns River. Don’t forget their side dishes, like creamy Mac-N-Cheese and collard greens. They assert that all sides are vegetarian, so everyone can enjoy some Southern cooking at The Bearded Pig!
Cross Creek Steakhouse
Image via Flickr by Michel Curi
For some of the best steak found at the heart of Old Florida, get yourself to Cross Creek Steakhouse. Founded in 1995 and locally owned and operated, Cross Creek Steakhouse prides itself on family-style food inspired by Florida roots. With a menu ranging from appetizers like fried yellow squash with the restaurant’s signature Creek sauce, to classics like fried pickles and brisket dipped sandwiches, having a bite to eat here is like sinking your teeth into Florida’s history.
Although a steakhouse by name, you must try their baby back ribs. Their website states all racks of ribs are dry seasoned and smoked over oak wood nightly, for at least 12 hours, following old Florida tradition. You can order the tender and juicy pork ribs by the half slab or full slab. We suggest getting the combo and pairing them with a steak to experience Cross Creek Steakhouse dining at its best!
Butt Hutt Smokehouse
The Butt Hutt Smokehouse is a food truck! But don’t discount it because of that. A Jacksonville favorite because of its traditional Florida-style BBQ, the brightly colored mobile stands out for its delectable menu. With a rather extensive selection of menu items considering it is on wheels, at the Butt Hutt Smokehouse you can order a selection of sandwiches with one side, to complete platters that satisfy the largest of appetites.
Pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked sausage, and jerk chicken array the menu with sides like corn nuggets, cilantro-lime coleslaw, spicy mac ‘n cheese, baked beans and sausage, salad, and French fries. Go hungry and order their well-known Florida Fries smothered in cheddar cheese and topped with a generous serving of pulled pork, pepper, onions, and garlic ranch sauce. Check their website for a schedule of locations to find them easily.
Berndt Ends BBQ
This former food truck turned official brick and mortar restaurant is known for its high quality and consistent brisket flavor. Berndt Ends BBQ has flavorful brisket that sells out daily, so you want to get there early and taste for yourself why they have won so many awards on the BBQ circuit. They make their dipping sauces from scratch that pair with the award-winning BBQ, and you can wash it down with a glass of Southern sweet tea or a bottle of their Cheerwine.
For a special treat, try some unique menu items such as their smoked bacon jalapeno poppers, smoked collards, or their Crac Mac, a favorite among kids and adults alike. You can order your favorite BBQ meat served up in a sandwich with side, or something like the Ultimate Porker, a platter of sausage and pork on top their flavorful garlic toast with a side made from scratch slaw and fried onions. You can ever order a variety of barbecue favorites by the pound. They work with several delivery services, so check their website for options. Whether you dine in, carry out, or opt for delivery, just make sure you have your appetite!
Gator’s BBQ
No visit to Florida is complete without a gator! Check out Gator’s BBQ for catering, dine-in, or take-out. This small, quick service, family-owned restaurant has a friendly and inviting atmosphere that reminds you of a visit to your grandpa’s house. The barbecue is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and savory while the sides are Southern favorites and exactly like your grandma would make.
Try a classic starter like the fried green tomatoes or fried mushrooms, followed by the sweet pulled pork with a corn on the cob and creamy macaroni salad. Follow it all with banana pudding to catch that sweet tooth. They have the option of ordering meat by the pound and have a Lil’ Gators menu for the kids.
So, if you’re in Jacksonville, Florida, looking for some excellent barbecue, we here at Keith Pierson Toyota know quality and are certain one of these selections will satisfy you. While you’re chowing down, consider contacting us for your Toyota needs. Whether it be routine maintenance, a service repair, customization, or if you’re in the market to buy or sell, we are ready to answer your questions! Is there a restaurant on our list that interests you? Did we miss a hidden BBQ gem you favor? One Floridians love? If so, let us know! Send us a message and we’ll be sure to add it to our list.
When you find the new or pre-owned Toyota car you’ve been looking for, you can’t help but be pretty excited. So it’s only natural that you’d want to make it your own, or protect the way it looks for as long as possible. That’s why at Keith Pierson Toyota, we love to tell our customers about the wide array of Toyota accessories available at our dealership and online! Today, we want to share just two with you – there are loads more, all tailored to your specific vehicle (as long as it’s not older than 1983, of course).
With all the summer storms comes a lot of mud. That’s why it’s important to have a reliable set of all-weather floor liners like the ones we sell at our shop. For instance, if you need to protect the floor of your 2019 Toyota Camry, we sell a wide array of all-weather floor liners. They’ve been accurately-sized to match the interior of your vehicle, and feature ribbed channels to keep dirt, sand, mud, and even gravel out of your shoes and most importantly, off your Camry’s upholstery. They’ve also been branded with the Camry logo, so that’s always a plus.
But maybe you already have a set of floor mats. We have other great organizational accessories like a cargo tote that fits your Camry’s specific trunk dimensions. This allows you to divide the contents of your trunk into something a bit more orderly than the pile of random gear and objects that might be rolling around your trunk now.
So what are you waiting for? Come into our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealer for an amazing price on an amazing car, and find some of the most amazing accessories you’ve ever seen while you’re here. See you soon!
How You Can Keep Your Car Cool This Summer
Keith Pierson Toyota is not only your go-to dealership when you’re looking for an exceptional new or pre-owned Toyota car, but also when you’re looking for ways to keep your car cool in the Jacksonville heat. To help your car stay cool this summer, our team of experienced Toyota dealers have gathered our best tips for helping your vehicle beat the summer heat.
To ensure your air conditioning runs efficiently this summer, regular maintenance is key. You don’t want your air conditioning system to malfunction when you need it most, which is why our dedicated Jacksonville, FL Toyota service professionals are here to check your system and filters to make sure everything is working properly. Our service technicians can also ensure that your brakes, fluids, and engine are also taken care of.
One way you can keep your car cool this summer is by investing in a sunshade, which prevents heat from getting trapped inside your car. If your vehicle has leather seats like the 2019 Toyota Camry, a sunshade can prevent your seats from burning up if your vehicle is parked in the sun. Other easy tips for keeping your car cool is by parking in shady spots or covered garages and by investing in a windshield fan – if you place it on your dashboard, you can circulate the air in your car’s cabin so it won’t be stuffy.
For more service tips to help your car beat the heat this summer, stop by our Toyota service center near Lakeside, FL and give your car the service it needs to run like a champ. You can give us a call any time at 888-597-3703. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Keep Your Summer Cool at Keith Pierson Toyota!
Summer is heating up around the Jacksonville, FL area. But at Keith Pierson Toyota, you can look, and feel, cool in a new or pre-owned Toyota car. And today, we’re showing off the 2019 Toyota Camry. With a wide array of models and options, the new Camry is here to make your summer cool and easy.
When it comes to the 2019 Toyota Camry, no matter which of the ten models you choose, you’re getting a great value. But if you want to save even more, then you’re going to want the Hybrid model. With an upper limit of 51 miles per gallon city and 53 miles per gallon highway, this sedan will provide you with the range you need to make sure that you won’t break your budget no matter how far your summer travels take you. And with available entertainment features like a 10-inch touchscreen with Entune™ 3.0 Premium Audio with JBL Clari-Fi™, you’re going to be able to enjoy the ride for years to come.
Speaking of the ride, even though the Toyota Camry is known most for its efficiency, you’re also going to have a great time driving it thanks to the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine or the available 3.5-liter V6 engine producing a heavy-duty 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, you’re going to be getting a gripping ride no matter where you’re headed.
So when you’re ready to take your summer to the next level, get to our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealership for deals on the 2019 Toyota Camry and so much more. Our experts will help you find the best Toyota near me at a price that will truly make your summer cool. We look forward to seeing you soon!
With the holiday that everyone associates with fireworks and delicious grilled meats coming up, we at Keith Pierson Toyota feel that it’s time we let you know what the Fourth of July means to us – giving our Jacksonville, FL customers the best deal on a new and pre-owned Toyota vehicle! So when you’re sitting down with the family and enjoying your Fourth of July cookout, just remember the amazing deal you got with us, and remember that our Toyota dealership got your holiday started with a bang.
If you’re looking for an SUV with an attitude for adventure, then you need to check out the 2019 Toyota RAV4. With its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine putting out 203 horsepower and the Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission, this SUV is here to provide you with a great ride in a variety of driving conditions thanks to the standard Multi-Terrain Select on All-Wheel-Drive gas models. Add in the capability to tow up to 3,500 lbs, and you’ve got an SUV that can hold its own in the outdoors and while also looking great on the highway and in town. Right now, you can finance a 2019 RAV4 for as little as $239/month!
But maybe you’re looking for a bit of a change of pace from the SUV. Maybe you just want a vehicle that can get you from A to B without hurting your wallet at the pump. If that’s the case, then the 2019 Toyota Camry is what you’re looking for. This model comes with a fun and engaging interior that feels more futuristic and dynamic than ever, with an available 8-inch touchscreen with the Entune™ 3.0 system to deliver superior entertainment. And right now, a new 2019 Toyota Camry can be yours for over $1,000 off the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price.
So what are you waiting for? Get in to our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealership for the best deals on the Toyota vehicle you deserve for the Fourth of July! See you soon!
When you realize summer is on the way, you change a few things. You change the thermostat from winter to summer. You change wardrobes. But, you should also consider changing your old car or truck for a new vehicle from Keith Pierson Toyota. Today we want to show you why the new 2020 Toyota Corolla is a vehicle that you’ll always associate with summer.
First off, the newly redesigned 2020 Toyota Corolla has been empowered to make history. This is the first-ever Corolla hybrid, and it’s sacrificed none of its Corolla reliability while gaining a ton of fuel efficiency. The traditional 2020 Toyota Corolla gets a respectable 31 MPG city and 38 MPG highway, but the new Toyota hybrid model makes 53 MPG city and 52 MPG highway! Any driving you do this summer will cost a lot less at the fuel pump in the 2020 Toyota Corolla hybrid, but will also have a much lower environmental cost than its previous incarnations.
Saving money on gas is just scratching the surface of the 2020 Toyota Corolla. The safety features on this new model are second-to-none, with additions like the Toyota Safety Sense® suite of safety features. This includes the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection technology that allows your Corolla to detect and warn you of obstacles ahead, or even emergency brakes for you in order to stop a collision. The vehicle also comes standard with Apple CarPlay® connectivity, so you can enjoy complete access to your phone through the Corolla’s standard 8-inch touchscreen display.
There’s never been a better time to own a 2020 Toyota Corolla than right now! Come into our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealership and protect yourself from the heat with this incredibly cool car. See you soon!
At Keith Pierson Toyota, we’re dedicated to providing the greatest experience possible when buying, leasing, or selling a new or pre-owned Toyota car. Our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealer provides excellent service and always strives to maintain the best deals for our customers, and this summer, we’re ready to provide great deals for you! Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle or a fun, nimble car, we’ve got what you need.
When you’re looking for a reliable family vehicle, then you need to check out the 2019 Toyota Highlander. With an efficient 27 estimated MPG highway and a versatile 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, you’re getting a fun ride that won’t break the bank. And with an included Entune™ 6.1-inch screen with the Entune™ multimedia bundle that includes MP3 and WMA playback capability, and a USB 2.0 port, you’re getting a vehicle that will keep you and your passengers entertained for the long haul. With safety features like Toyota Safety Sense™ P that include options like Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, you can safely keep pace with the flow of traffic even in slowing and increasing levels of traffic.
But if you’re looking to get things done this summer, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is what you’re looking for. This all-purpose truck is powered by a heavy-duty 3.5-liter V6 engine and features a maximum payload of 1,420 lbs, and a maximum trailering capacity of 6,700 lbs, making it perfect for outdoor work in any condition. And when you add in safety features like Lane Departure Alert to keep your vehicle on track, you’re going to have a reliable workhorse truck for years to come.
Summer’s heating up, and so are our sales! Come in today for excellent deals on these and so many more Toyota vehicles. Our expert staff will get you behind the wheel, and our expert service technicians will keep you supported and in top shape on the road. See you soon!
Summer humidity is in full swing in Jacksonville, FL. The first big grilling holiday is coming up, and at Keith Pierson Toyota, we’re gearing up for big sales! Memorial Day is upon us and we’re getting ready to make sure our customers receive only the best deals on their new or pre-owned Toyota vehicle. Today, we want to show off the best of the best and remind you that there’s even more in store this holiday!
There’s no doubt that one of the most iconic sedans in automobile history is the Toyota Corolla. And right now, you can get a new 2019 Toyota Corolla SE for over $1,750 off the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)! This sedan is equipped with a 1.8L I4 engine that makes for fun, responsive driving and an efficient 28 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. And with available features like a 6-Inch LCD Infotainment screen powered by Entune audio and safety features like Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, you’re getting a tech-forward new Toyota car for a great price.
But if you’re looking for a vehicle that has the power and the performance of an off-road ready SUV, then you need to get your hands on the 2019 Toyota RAV4. Its powerful 2.5L Four-Cylinder engine is well-suited for city as well as highway driving, while consistently delivering an impressive 30 combined MPG! It can also tow up to 1,500 lbs, so any toys you want to bring can come with you on your adventures.
So head down to our Jacksonville, FL Toyota dealership for the best deals this Memorial Day weekend. We’re always striving to make sure you save as much as possible on the best vehicles on the market. See you soon!
Getting Help with Financing Your New Car
When you’re looking for a new or pre-owned Toyota car, the buying process can be pretty overwhelming if you’re not prepared. So today, Keith Pierson Toyota wants to share with you some useful advice to make sure you find a car that’s right for you, and right for your new car budget.
The first thing to realize is that the price you’re seeing on the website is not the total price that you’ll be paying. That’s because of costs like registration and title fees, sales tax, and any extended warranty you might buy at the time of purchase. You’ll also need to factor in the secondary costs of ownership as well. These include car insurance, fuel costs, maintenance, and registration renewals. These should all get rolled into the amount of money you’re prepared to budget for your new vehicle.
Don’t fret, though. There are definitely opportunities to bring those costs down. You’ll need a down payment to get a decent monthly rate on your vehicle. Remember, the more you pay off in the first place, the less your monthly payments will be, and the less interest you’ll pay in the long run. To help with your payment, consider trading in your old vehicle to add its value to your down payment. It can be a very big help.
Finally, you need to figure out the maximum amount your monthly payment can be in relation to your income. It’s a good rule of thumb to make sure your transportation costs don’t exceed 15 percent of your monthly income, and the finance experts at our Jacksonville, FL dealership are here to make sure you do not go over your budget. Come in and discover what we have for you today – you’re going to love it!
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