From the Publisher

Words by John M. Phillips

Dear Folio Readers and Best of Jax Supporters:

Back in the spring of 2001, I flew to Jacksonville to interview for my first job as a lawyer. As I sat at the Landing and read an issue of “Folio Weekly,” I knew this was the town for me. Now, in 2023, I’m a husband and father to three boys, and the owner of Jacksonville’s beloved, “Folio Weekly”.

I often think back on the path that led me to “Folio”. When I first moved to Jacksonville, I started a career in insurance defense. In July of 2011, I’d change my life again by switching sides. I wanted to help the victims of injuries and trauma. That led to my helping the family of Jordan Davis and ending pediatric dentist Howard Schneider’s reign of pain. These cases all involved working with the media. And from that came relationships with some of the brilliant folks from previous “Folio” under Sam Taylor, including the talented Anne Schindler, Claire Goforth and Georgio Valentino. They, with many others, worked with us to tell my clients’ stories.

In 2020, COVID-19 hit Jacksonville. Sam Taylor, Folio founder and publisher, made the ultimate sacrifice. He could no longer continue to operate “Folio Weekly”. He and I spoke and eventually my family became the new owners. My time as publisher of “Folio” has been incredible. I have had the privilege of interviewing the best our city has to offer. I have also worked diligently to expose corruption at the highest levels of Jacksonville’s government. And if that were not exciting enough, going through the “Folio” archives with my kids was amazing. It brings tears to my eyes writing this because this is my last issue as the publisher of “Folio”.

It’s time for change. I want to take what I’ve learned as a lawyer and media owner and put it to use. I am going to run for City Council for District 7 in Jacksonville.

As a lawyer, I have grown frustrated with the leaders of our great city. There have been thousands of senseless murders in the last eight years. Many of which I have worked with families and detectives to solve. I’ve learned a lot and know it doesn’t have to be this way. As the publisher of “Folio,” I’ve seen government corruption first hand. In addition to the independent voice of “Folio,” Jacksonville needs an independent voice at City Hall. There can be no more elected lobbyists or future lobbyists, no more “besties” with politicians or those who put politics over people.

My law practice will remain unchanged, and I will continue to zealously protect all of the present and future obligations of my clients. “Folio”, has a different path. For the most part, “Folio” will remain the same. But a change in leadership will come with a fresh and inspiring vibe, one that I am very excited about. It is my pleasure to announce that “Folio Weekly” will have its first-ever female publisher, my wife and best friend, Angela Phillips. Angela has served Jacksonville for many years, volunteering for city committees and working with local non-profits. She will be a great addition to this 35-year-old treasure.

The decision to step down as the publisher of “Folio,” was a difficult one. The decision to run was not. In my legal life, I’m committed to seeking justice for those who have been wronged by the legal system. I have dedicated my career to giving a voice to the under-represented. In my “Folio” life, I’m committed to exposing the truth and showcasing all that Jacksonville has to offer. Now I want to do the same for the citizens of Jacksonville. I have worked and lived in District 7 since 2001, and I hope you will allow me to serve you as I have served my clients for decades. The election is March 21. You can register to vote until Feb. 21.

I love you all and I humbly ask for your support. Help me help others.

John M. Phillips