A little bit of sophistication, a dash of music and a whole lot of clowning around: those are the three main components of an unforgettable night at the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. The latest Pop Series performance by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, Cirque de la Symphonie, proved to be a treat for both the ears and the eyes of all who attended Nov. 14-15, as the orchestra teamed up with an award-winning circus ensemble to bring its music to life. “We’ve played this piece many times before and never received that kind of reception,” Music Director and Principal Conductor Fabio Mechetti said after the audience erupted in applause. The difference was the combination of the senses, allowing viewers to experience the music in a visual way with bodies contorting to the beat, flying through the air or balancing on another person’s head.

A combination of partying, the lack of home cooking and the ever-rising prices of textbooks might account for the phrase “broke college student.” And now more than ever, it might be a struggle for college students to keep money in the bank. However, there are ways for college students to combat these worrisome financial times and still have a little fun. One of the most important steps students can take to save money is to know what they are spending money on and how much they are spending, said Bettie Adams, assistant professor of accounting and board member of Community First Credit Union. Adams suggested students keep track of their expenses for a week, including small things like trips to the vending machine.

Approximately 190 dancers showed up for the Children’s Miracle Network-sponsored Dance Marathon which took place at the UNF Arena Nov. 21 and 22. The event benefited patients at the Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital and Shands. After 18 hours of learning dances from various local instructors, playing games and hearing benefiting families speak, the total amount raised: $19,096.35, was revealed to participants. The money came from different outlets such as events on and off campus prior to the marathon, donations from the public and the added amount of what each individual dancer raised, which totaled approximately $15,000.