Resident: Riverside October 2024

School Board votes on Master Facility Plan

Business closures cause concern

By Michele Leivas

Local residents are expressing concern following a spate of recent business closures in the Five Points and San Marco neighborhoods.

In recent weeks, Five Points has seen the closure of the iconic Sun-Ray Cinema, Mixed Fillings Pie Shop, Alewife Bottle Shop and

other businesses. Those departures follow the closing last year of the popular Black Sheep restaurant.

“What is going on here?!” resident Deborah Altman commented on Mixed Fillings’ July 24 social media announcement that it was closing. “Southern Roots, Sun-Ray,

and

While various factors led to the closures of each of the businesses, the rapid succession

The outline of the Mixed Fillings Pie Shop sign can still be seen at its Five Points storefront, despite the shop’s closure at the end of August.

Alewife Bottle Shop closed its doors after a decade of business in Five Points.

Bartaco is preparing to move into Black Sheep's former location after the Five Points favorite closed last year.

Alysha Ammerman and Dylan Wilson at The Florida Theatre

Curry, Steve and Seth Pajcic in good spirits at JALA’s welcome reception; Pajcic & Pajcic was honored for its commitment to the organization.

Dr. Ali Lankarani, Ascension St. Vincent's CEO Scott Kashman and Dr. Kevin Comar at Delicious Destinations

School Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier's recommended Master Facility Plan would keep Fishweir Elementary open.

DIA to consider ‘optimal use’ of riverfront East Landing site

Due diligence could take a year, cost up to $950,000

By Michele Leivas

The Downtown Investment Authority plans to spend up to a year conducting due diligence on the city-owned riverfront East Landing site before considering its future development.

DIA Director of Operations Guy Parola informed the board it could cost up to $950,000 and take up to a year to conduct the necessary due diligence, including market and land use analyses after private developer Cross Regions Group expressed interest in building a 720-foot skyscraper on the site. The land use analysis would include title investigation and subsurface

utility engineering reports to assess what’s underneath the site.

“We’re not going to rely on the asbuilts and what we can discover from the paperwork, we’re also going to do the physical, or soft dig utility locate information,” Parola said.

Doing this subsurface investigation, Parola said, will help identify any underground issues or utilities – such as JEA sewer pipes – that might require relocation or other attention before development could occur.

Optimal use

Another option would involve determining the parcel’s “optimal use,” which considers a larger picture that could involve multiple parcels and their impacts on one another.

“You are looking at the use of a particular parcel for the benefits to that parcel, but also for the benefits and impact to adjacent parcels on achieving your overall long-term goals as part of your plan,” Downtown Investment Authority CEO Lori Boyer said.

Determining the parcel’s optimal use would require more time because it is an analysis that involves multiple parcels. The cost for this optimal use report would range from $50,000 to $100,000 and take six months to complete for one property only, or $250,000 and nine months to complete for multiple parcels, including private development.

Though it would take longer if these analyses were not done concurrently, Boyer said her preference would be to determine the parcel’s optimal use first, since that report’s findings could save the city money should it render some of those subsurface relocations unnecessary.

Vote-by-Mail ballots available for Nov. 5 presidential election

By Michele Leivas

Vote-by-Mail ballots for the upcoming Nov. 5 presidential election can now be requested via the Duval County Supervisor of Elections Office by phone at (904) 255-8683 or picked up in person at the main office downtown.

Eligible registered voters must specify the election for which they’re requesting a mail-in ballot and provide their full name, date of birth, Florida driver’s license or ID number (or the last four digits of their social security number) and mailing address when submitting the request by phone.

The deadline to request a Vote-byMail ballot is by 5 p.m. on the 12th day prior to the election. Once a ballot is completed, voters must put it in the return envelope provided and sign the return envelope. If returning the ballot by mail, voters are encouraged to send them back as soon as possible. Voters can also return their ballots in person the SOE office during office hours or during early voting hours at one of the Early Voting sites.

For a Vote-by-Mail ballot to be counted, it must be received by the elections office by 7 p.m. on election day.

The deadline to register for the 2024 general election is Oct. 7.

Visit www.duvalelections.gov for more information.

The proposed Ergisi Tower is on hold while the Downtown Investment Authority conducts due diligence on the property's “optimal use.”

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Ortega, Avondale, Riverside, Murray Hill, San Marco, San Jose, Epping Forest and St Nicholas

Proposed Stockton Street row house project rocks the boat Project’s

By Michele Leivas

Some Riverside residents and business owners are voicing concerns over a proposed rezoning application that would allow row houses to be built on a narrow strip of land along Stockton Street that is owned by Delores and Wayne Weaver.

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Introduced in July, Bill 2024-0539 seeks to rezone the 0.23-acre parcel of land in front of the John Gorrie condominiums for the development of five, two-story row houses. The project does not include on-site

business, he said, and he fears the row house project’s lack of off-street parking would only exacerbate the situation.

The right to develop

The property’s ownership also has been called into question. According to county records, in 2015 a declaration amendment was filed to the John Gorrie Condominiums ostensibly to correct scrivener’s errors. At that time, the row house parcel was separated

HOA President Kellie Perkins said the HOA had not been contacted regarding such an arrangement, nor would it be possible.

“All of our parking spaces are deeded to each of the owners, so there are no extra parking spaces even if we wanted to be neighborly about it,” Perkins said.

Both the Planning Commission and Planning and Development Department recommended approval of the project. According to the Planning and Development

parking and would require its residents to use existing street parking – raising a red flag for neighbors and business owners who say parking along the busy corridor is already at a premium.

“[Small businesses] want growth,” said Scott Crawley, owner of Focus Physical Therapy. “We just want it done in a smart, deliberate way that’s addressing our concerns as well.”

Crawley said that in the 20 years he has been at his Stockton Street location, he has seen the area evolve and come into its own as a thriving business corridor and residential area. But the dearth of available parking already impacts his patients and his

from the condominium’s property. County records indicate the parcel is now owned by John Gorrie Investment Group, LLC, which state records indicate is managed by the Weavers.

Attorney Sean Walsh, who owns a unit in the John Gorrie condominiums, questioned those changes.

“I do think there’s a threshold of ownership here,” Walsh told the city council and Land Use and Zoning Committee.

At its August meeting, the Planning Commission suggested some parking spaces be reserved from the condominium’s parking lot for these row homes to alleviate the impact on street parking. But John Gorrie

Department’s report, the parcel in question is already zoned as a PUD that conditionally allows 95 multi-family units and commercial and office uses.

Riverside Avondale Preservation Executive Director Shannon Blankinship said while the proposed row house project would create a “less intensive” use than the parcel’s current zoning, the worries over parking are valid.

“The concern over parking is a real one and one that we wish there was a better solution for,” Blankinship said.

The Resident reached out to applicant representative Greg Matovina for comment but did not receive a response by press time.

Community opposition leads to delays for Ortega Carriage House PUD

By Michele Leivas

The developer of the proposed Ortega Carriage House is going back to the drawing board after receiving negative feedback from some neighborhood residents.

A town meeting on the Ortega Carriage House project that was initially scheduled for Sept. 19 was postponed, and public hearings on its Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning application – Bill 2024-0611 – have been continued to Oct. 22. Property owner Gayle Bulls Dixon said the postponement was to allow for further conversations on a new proposal for development. She declined to comment further.

Residents opposed to the project have raised more than $20,000 since Sept. 4 through a GoFundMe campaign, retaining attorney Paul Harden to represent them in this matter. The GoFundMe was organized by Ortega resident Peter Hunt, who lives across the street from the intended site of the proposed development. He said

the community response to the project is “overwhelmingly negative.”

“The community is all in favor of development in that location, but they would like to see something that raises up the community, not helps to bring down the community,” Hunt said. “There’s a long history of failed commercial operations in Ortega, and the last thing we want to see is another failed commercial operation in Ortega.”

The current project proposal would replace the existing structure at 4230 and 4218 Ortega Boulevard with a gated, two-story 19,000 square-foot shell building with 18 customizable units that individual owners could build out to their specifications. Dixon has previously stated she would retain three of the units – two as offices for herself and her son and partner on this project, Cameron Dixon, and the third as a clubhouse for all owners to use.

A rendering submitted in the Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning application depicts the five two-story row houses a developer would like to build on Stockton Street.

Residents are showing their opposition to the proposed Ortega Carriage House development by posting these yard signs.

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Hope rekindled for Laura Street Trio

By Michele Leivas

A Philadelphia law firm will be brought in as outside counsel to assist the Jacksonville City Council in crafting legislation for a redevelopment agreement for the Laura Street Trio.

The Personnel Committee voted Sept. 17 to retain Ballard Spahr at $625 an hour to help bring the redevelopment agreement across the finish line.

“My expectation is to have a bill filed and through the process by the winter break at the end of December,” City Council Vice

President Kevin Carrico said.

While the city already has law firm Gray Robinson on retainer, Carrico put forward Ballard Spahr for consideration, citing projects it has executed in other cities such as New Orleans and Washington, D.C.

“This Laura Street Trio could really transform our downtown,” Carrico said. “I think having the best firm represent us to help with legislation is paramount in getting this done.”

The city previously allocated $100,000

to acquire third-party law firms. Past Council President Ron Salem said he didn’t anticipate the council exceeding those dollars while crafting a redevelopment agreement since much of the work has already been done.

“I don’t think it’s a six-month process,” Salem said. “I think everyone’s thinking this can be done in 60 days or so.”

Carrico clarified there is no connection between the law firm and lobbying firm Ballard Partners. Jordan Elsbury is

managing partner of Ballard Partners’ Jacksonville office and has been involved with the Laura Street Trio project.

This is the latest development in the ongoing saga of the three historic buildings following a tumultuous summer that saw the city file – and then drop – a foreclosure lawsuit against property owner and developer Steve Atkins. Filed in August, the lawsuit alleged administrative fines in excess of $800,000 for code violations accruing since 2015. On Sept. 16, the city moved to dismiss the lawsuit.

“SouthEast Development Group, (Downtown Investment Authority) and the Mayor’s Office continue negotiations to determine the best path forward in completing renovations of the Laura Street Trio project,” a statement from the mayor’s office read. “Current plans are to move forward without the lawsuit as agreed to by both parties.”

Jacksonville-based Live Oak Contracting issued a press release the same day the lawsuit was dropped announcing its partnership with SouthEast Development Group on the adaptive reuse project.

“Together, Live Oak and SouthEast Development Group will collaborate to present a visionary proposal that promises to breathe new life into these historic assets,” said the release.

When completed, the mixed-use development will feature 169 multifamily apartments, a an Autograph Collection Hotel by Marriott and retail and entertainment spaces.

“As a company that has proudly called Jacksonville home for the past decade, Live Oak is deeply invested in the future of this city,” CEO Paul Bertozzi said. “Our headquarters is right across the street from the Laura Street Trio, making this project incredibly personal. We’re excited to be part of revitalizing a piece of Jacksonville’s history and to create a space that will serve generations to come.”

A rendering of the proposed redevelopment of the Laura Street Trio

Local chef to open seafood restaurant at Herschel and San Juan

By Jennifer Logue

The former chef and partner at Roy’s Restaurant in Jacksonville Beach plans to open a new seafood restaurant at the corner of Herschel Street and San Juan Avenue next year on the site of a shuttered gas station.

Chef Tito Quinones and partner Wyatt Griesemer are working with property owner John Williams to transform the former gas station into an as yet unnamed restaurant with alcohol service and both indoor and outdoor seating for 120. Renovations to the existing building are expected to begin in December.

“It’s going to look pretty vintage,” said Quinones, who currently operates the Eat Happy Jax food truck. “We’re looking at a late Spring (2025) opening.”

While the restaurant will feature some steak and chicken offerings as well as a children’s menu, the focus will be primarily on seafood.

“We make it our mission to offer local seafood from Northeast Florida – that means Mayport shrimp and only Florida fish,” he said.

Eat Happy

A self-proclaimed “Navy brat,” Quinones moved around a lot during his childhood before his family moved to Jacksonville in 2004. In addition to Roy’s, his local culinary career included a stint at bb’s. After Roy’s closed, however, a friend presented him with the unusual proposal of starting the food truck. But the business that would become known as “Eat Happy

Jax” got off to a less than fortuitous start when the trip home from picking up the new food truck turned into a nightmare.

“I was towing the food truck in my Chevy Avalanche, driving through the Osceola National Forest with my 1-yearold daughter, when the radiator blew,” he recalled. “I was losing it; we were stuck in the middle of nowhere when a guardian angel showed up and offered to go buy me the parts, come back and fix it.”

Seeing that her father was no longer upset – and wishing to communicate her hunger – Quinones’ daughter started saying, ‘Eat? Happy? Eat? Happy?”

The name stuck.

Currently, the Eat Happy Jax food truck only does festivals. “With three daughters, I began to see the challenges of

traveling all the time with a food truck,” he said.

Quinones began thinking of opening a restaurant, when on Thanksgiving Day 2022, he happened to pass 4323 Herschel St.

“The owner had just put a sign up saying, ‘I’d like to turn this into a diner or something similar; if you think you can do it, call me.’”

Now, as Quinones’ dream of starting a restaurant becomes a reality, he praises property owner Williams for being willing to invest in the renovations needed to rehabilitate the site for a business that will be a positive addition to the community.

“He’s our angel investor,” Quinones said. “He’s just trying to make the neighborhood better.”

The former gas station and convenience store at the corner of Herschel Street and San Juan Avenue will be renovated for a new seafood restaurant.

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Light at the end of the tunnel? FDOT taps the brakes on Murray Hill’s artistic lighting display

By Michele Leivas

The light at the end of the tunnel may be a bit further away for Murray Hill residents eager to see the artistic LED light display at the underpass at Edgewood Avenue South and Roosevelt Boulevard.

Illumination of the light display has been temporarily delayed since the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) expressed concerns regarding the use of traffic signal colors – red, yellow and green – in the lighting’s rotation.

FDOT Community Outreach Manager Hampton Ray explained that the artistic lighting features were included as a secondary element in its Edgewood Avenue South improvements, with safety being the primary focus of the project. To that end, he said, FDOT has requested that signal colors be removed from the artistic color scheme, given the overpass’s proximity to existing traffic signals and the railroad crossing.

“FDOT’s goal is to ensure all lighting schemes are safe, predictable and meet required safety standards for all roadway users, including drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists…” Ray said. “FDOT is committed to working with community partners to meet safety standards and address aesthetic considerations.”

Murray Hill Preservation Association Board Member James Coggin, who has been involved in the lighting project for several years, expressed disappointment with the color restrictions.

“We’re not rewriting what’s possible,” said Coggin, who served on the Cultural Council panel that selected artist Bill FitzGibbons to create the lighting display. “This has been done elsewhere, and as a panelist, I’m a little disappointed to see the full vision not be realized.”

In 2007, FitzGibbons created “Light Channels,” an installation in a San Antonio, Texas underpass that is in close proximity to at least one traffic signal. That display was completed in collaboration with the City of San Antonio, the Texas Department of Transportation and the county government.

The Murray Hill lighting installation is part of FDOT’s Edgewood Avenue South road improvements that are being implemented from Roosevelt Boulevard to Cassat Avenue, which also include the new traffic circle at Edgewood Avenue South.

Creating Destinations

A collaboration between the City of Jacksonville, the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville and FDOT, the artistic lighting display is intended to beautify the concrete underbelly of the U.S. 17 overpass. District 7 City Councilmember Jimmy Peluso said once completed, the display will help create a destination within the Murray Hill community.

“If you look at great cities, especially those that have artists in their community that want to see and do more, they take those ugly, crude-looking pieces of concrete and they make them awesome,” Peluso said. “They make them places where people want to go and take pictures and think that it’s cool and that’s really what it’s about.”

Peluso said he anticipates the lighting project to be completed by the end of the year.

Jacksonville prepares for state law banning sleeping on public property

By Michele Leivas

The Jacksonville City Council passed a pair of bills Sept. 24 to ensure the city is prepared for a new state law prohibiting sleeping on public property that went into effect Oct. 1.

Bill #0687 codifies the state law at the local level, prohibiting public camping, urination and defecation. It passed on a 16-1 vote, with District 14 City Councilmember Dr. Rahman Johnson opposing.

Johnson later said he still believes the new state law is an unfunded mandate from the state. Noting that some of the opponents to the recently defeated anti-hate crimes Bill #334 argued that legislation already existed to address the issue, Johnson said this was a similar situation.

“They said the reason that Johnnie Mae’s Law was not passed is because there was a redundancy of law,” Johnson said. “I believe the same thing with this; this was already on the books.”

Bill #0713 provides the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department with an additional $2.5 million in funding to implement and oversee a countywide Homelessness Strategic

Plan. A portion of those funds will pay for seven additional positions with JFRD. That bill passed unanimously.

In March, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Florida HB 1365, which prohibits homeless individuals from camping in public spaces such as streets, sidewalks and parks, and requires that local government relocate individuals to temporary shelters. The law allows Department of Children and Families to designate “temporary campsites.”

Following a Sept. 16 Rules Committee meeting, District 5 City Councilmember Joe Carlucci said he felt good about the city’s preparations for the new law, including JFRD’s aid in responding to such calls, which he said will alleviate any added burden on the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.

“JFRD stepped up and is taking a lead on it and they’re stepping up with additional staff,” Carlucci said. “And they’re going to have trucks to go out and respond to any of the calls that we get for public camping.”

Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, the state law also allows for

county residents, business owners or the attorney general to file lawsuits alleging a failure to comply. This gives the city a 90-day window to make any necessary adjustments to ensure it is complying fully with the new law.

“After that 90-day period, we’ll have a lot of good data and insight on what additional support they need, if any,” Carlucci said.

Carlucci said there have been no worthwhile discussions about designating city property for temporary encampment.

“It’s not pragmatic to do that,” Carlucci said. “I think that would create way more problems than anything else.”

In July, Mayor Donna Deegan rolled out the city’s five-year, $14 million plan to mitigate homelessness and prepare it for the enforcement of HB 1365. The mayor’s Homelessness Work Group is comprised of both city and civic leaders. Its goal is for the city to achieve functional zero, whereby the number of people who enter homeless is the same as those who find permanent housing in the same year.

A planned Murray Hill LED light display by artist Bill FitzGibbons similar to the one above has been delayed by FDOT concerns over its use of traffic signal colors.

JTA launches autonomous vehicle pilot program in Brooklyn

By Michele Leivas

of its favorite lunch spots: the Brooklyn AV Circulator.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s (JTA) Autonomous Vehicle pilot program will continue running in the area during prime lunch hours from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Oct. 25. This free, driverless public transportation will stop at 14 Brooklyn restaurants along Riverside Avenue, including:

1. Panera Bread (10 Riverside Ave.)

2. Chipotle Mexican Grill (50 Riverside Ave.)

3. Burrito Gallery (90 Riverside Ave. #601)

4. Vale Food Co. (90 Riverside Ave. #603)

5. BurgerFi (108 Riverside Ave., #101)

Business closings CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of shuttered doors has led some residents to express concerns about the climate for small businesses in Jacksonville. District 7 City Councilmember Jimmy Peluso said he has heard from residents about the recent closures and upheavals in the community – particularly when they involve storied landmarks like the Sun-Ray Cinema. Peluso added, however, that for all the closures the community has seen, it continues to see growth as new businesses fill in these empty store fronts, he pointed out.

“For everything that we’re seeing step out, we’re seeing new folks come in and take a look at those spaces and we’ll probably continue to see that over the next several decades,” Peluso said.

Mixed Fillings and The Hungry Caterpillar have regrouped and are executing plans for their next chapter. Mixed Fillings is currently searching for a new retail location while hosting pop-ups in the community. In addition, Bartaco is moving into Black Sheep’s spot and live entertainment venue FIVE will be moving into the Sun-Ray Cinema space.

Seth Darmata opened the Waffle Cone ice cream parlor on Post Street last year. Darmata said the recent closures represent

6. First Watch (192 Riverside Ave.)

7. The Fresh Market (150 Riverside Ave., #200)

8. Vista Brooklyn (200 Riverside Ave.)

9. Plenti (200 Riverside Ave., #1)

10. The Greenhouse (200 Riverside Ave., #2)

11. Anejo Cocina Mexicana (200 Riverside Ave., #103)

12. Arepa Please (474 Riverside Ave.)

13. Boost Smoothie (501 Riverside Ave., #107)

14. Tossgreen (501 Riverside Ave., #107)

Launched in August, the AV Circulator departs from the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center with a JTA attendant on board. The circulator offers 14 seats and two wheelchair locking points.

Lauren Henry, co-owner of The Greenhouse, said the public transport pilot program does help address parking concerns, which are “elevated” for her in the busy Brooklyn corridor. Henry hopes to see the program expand to connect more neighborhoods outside of downtown.

“I do think there is use for more public transportation in our city,” she said. “Obviously our city is growing rapidly. Parking is a problem, so we need it. I think we just need it in areas that it’s not really accessible in right now, they haven’t expanded it to.”

During this pilot program, JTA is requesting feedback on the AV technology. The test drive is part of JTA’s larger Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C), which aims to modernize and expand Jacksonville’s existing Skyway while introducing more autonomous vehicles into the city’s public transportation system.

“This is such a wonderful opportunity for Jacksonville residents and visitors to experience AVs being used as part of a public transportation system,” said JTA CEO Nat Ford. “Our goal is to provide safe, efficient and convenient travel for our customers. So, we want people to try it, and to tell us what they think.”

specific scenarios that led to difficult individual business decisions, rather than a downward trend for all businesses in the Five Points area. To the contrary, Darmata said, he thinks things are beginning to pick up for the community thanks in part to the merchants association.

“We’re doing more than I think has been done in a long time, at least the past several years,” Darmata said. “You can see some of that already starting to happen. People are talking to each other.”

Five Points Merchants Association

President Stephen Ezell believes the Five Points community has mastered the art of rolling with the punches.

“One of the things that I feel like is the true spirit of Five Points is the pivot,” Ezell said. “As we’re watching all these changes happen and new people move in and old people move out, the neighborhood’s got to pivot and then people have to say what they want.”

Signs of growth

Across the river in San Marco, the news that longtime fixture Bistro X would be closing in September was tempered by the announcement that a new restaurant

concept would take its place. Joel Mesa is one of the restaurant’s new owners who led Bistro X through its Sept. 28 closure. He believes these changes and shifts in the small business community represent Jacksonville’s own evolution.

“I think it’s Jacksonville sort of refreshing and catching up, even,” Mesa said. “Jacksonville is expanding rapidly, so I think as we get these new people, we’re going to have updated restaurants and people who are looking for a little bit more modernization from Jacksonville.”

District 5 City Councilmember Joe Carlucci said San Marco continues to see “good signs of growth” – from the recently opened Voodoo Brewery to the ongoing conversion of the former San Marco Theatre into a new restaurant concept. While the closure of Bistro X was disappointing for some people, Carlucci said, it didn’t necessarily trigger any cause for concern, particularly since the area continues to see new businesses come into the community.

“I think everyone understands some businesses have to make tough decisions,” Carlucci said, “and sometimes it’s just part of running a business.”

over five years. “Now it is an actual recommendation from the superintendent. I feel good. I feel like the community was involved.”

The recommendations come after extensive community input through public meetings and focus groups held throughout the summer and early fall. West Riverside Elementary parent Stephanie Garfunkel was part of the focus group for the Riverside High School feeder pattern. She said she is grateful that the West Riverside community input was heard.

“I’m happy that the district has revised the Master Facility Plan to take important factors into their decision making, specifically enrollment growth and academic performance for its diverse student body,” she said. “The parents of West Riverside made a strong case for why the school should continue to operate and we’re thankful to see that our voices have been heard.”

As the board waits for the final recommendation on which it will vote, it has begun contacting the schools that could be impacted by closures and/or consolidations in the 2025-26 school year. The district has also begun consolidation impact review meetings that will continue through October.

‘Equitable isn’t equal’

District 1 Board Member Dr. Kelly Coker asked for reassurances from Bernier that this latest draft recommendation was equitable in its approach to consolidations and closures. Previously, Coker had expressed concerns regarding “stunning” disparities in the previous closure list that had removed an A-rated school in the Beaches area from the list while placing Arlington’s A-rated Lake Lucina Elementary on the closure list for the first time.

The superintendent’s MFP has removed Lake Lucina from the closure list, instead slating it to be replaced with a new building in the Terry Parker High School feeder pattern.

Bernier stressed that there must be equity in the process, although there are various factors at play, including population patterns and shifts.

“Equitable is not equal,” Bernier said. “…I think we have to get to the point where we know what we have to consolidate, what we have to close, and we work in an appropriate fashion to make those difficult decisions. And we keep an eye on equity as we move through the process.” DCPS

The Resident will update this story on its website –www.residentnews.net –following the Oct. 1 vote.

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By Michele Leivas

The City of Jacksonville formally executed a Community Benefits Agreement with the Jacksonville Jaguars Sept. 13.

Jaguars President Mark Lamping and District 7 City Councilmember Jimmy Peluso joined Mayor Donna Deegan at signing ceremony for the $94 million agreement related to Jaguars’ $1.4 billion stadium renovation. The City Council approved the agreement Sept. 10 in a 13-2 vote, with Councilmembers Rory Diamond and Mike Gay voting against the agreement. Councilmembers Kevin Carrico, Ju’Coby Pittman and Reggie Gaffney, Jr. abstained from voting.

“No matter what else we accomplish in this city, this is a day that will go down in history,” Deegan said at the signing ceremony, held at In the Word International Church on Jacksonville’s Eastside. “It really will be a moment where we really delivered for all of Jacksonville an investment that will transform our community for generations, and especially the community that we’re standing in right now.”

Of that funding, $40 million will go specifically to the city’s Out East area. In addition, each of Jacksonville’s 14 city council districts will receive $1 million, which Peluso explained could go toward a variety of area-specific projects or nonprofit organizations, including some neighborhood associations.

“I think RAP [Riverside Avondale Preservation], SPAR [Springfield Preservation and Revitalization], Murray Hill [Preservation Association], and other neighborhood associations will probably get a couple bucks to be able to run some operations that are important to the community,” Peluso said.

A future City Council vote will help determine the specific allocation of those dollars. Peluso said he hopes the city will start disbursing dollars sooner than later.

“We hope that the mayor’s office, especially this mayor, will put more dollars in early so that we’re really kind of making a direct impact on people’s lives.”

By Michele Leivas

The doors may be closing for the Halloween Doors and More fundraising event, but its impact and memories for families will live on.

On Oct. 26, the Jacksonville Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall will be transformed by this beloved community event, this time with a circus-themed extravaganza as it welcomes friends and families into the wonder of Halloween Doors and More one last time.

This year marks both the 20th anniversary and final year of the cherished tradition and as a community bids farewell to the time-honored event, people are looking back to the events leading its debut year and the people behind it.

The event was founded by Betty Petway, Susan Dubow and Brooke Acosta-Rua to support Community Hospice and Palliative Care’s Community PedsCare, not just with dollars but by providing a day of hope, joy and magic for its pediatric patients and their families. Every year, at Halloween Doors and More, these families were transported to a world of enchantment and were reminded that they are not alone in their journeys.

Halloween Doors and More has raised more than $10 million over its two decades and every dollar raised has directly supported Community PedsCare.

More information, including tickets, can be found at www.communityhospice.com/events/20th-annualhalloween-doors-more

City councilmembers join Mayor Donna Deegan at the Sept. 13 signing ceremony for the $94 million Community Benefits Agreement.

Brooke Acosta-Rua, Susan Dubow and Jill McGriff, event chairs for the inaugural Halloween Doors and More event in 2001.

Photo/Instagram: @cityofjax

UNSUNG HEROES

Planting roots through volunteering

By Michele Leivas

Volunteer: Kendra McCrary

Organization: The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Involved Since: 2003

As president of The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Kendra McCrary is fully immersed in the Jacksonville community. Yet the River City was never meant to be a permanent move for McCrary and her family when they moved here from Atlanta in 1996.

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various volunteer efforts throughout college, so it was second nature to her to get involved in her new city.

Through the Junior League, McCrary became connected with many other nonprofit organizations in Jacksonville. She’s never looked back.

“I really did learn Jacksonville through volunteering,” she said, “and love Jacksonville through that experience.”

McCrary served as the Junior League president in 2004 and became involved with other community organizations, including the Sanctuary on 8th Street, Sulzbacher and The Women’s Board. In her role as president, McCrary oversees the board’s efforts to raise funds to ensure the hospital has the latest life-saving equipment and technologies to care for infants and children.

Between her own business and The Women’s Board, McCrary’s days are full, but she said giving back has never been a drain on her.

“I work full time, but I still have time to volunteer because the volunteering recharges me,” she said. “I can do so much more as part of this group of The Women’s Board than I could ever accomplish individually and that’s really wonderful.”

Still new to the community, McCrary began volunteering with the Junior League of Jacksonville to get to know her new home. Volunteering had been part of her life since childhood, with both parents active volunteers in their church and community, and McCrary had become engaged in

More than 20 years since they moved here, McCrary’s family still lives in the same Avondale home. Jacksonville truly is home for them – and while McCrary never would have anticipated that, she said she’s grateful that it is.

“It was a true gift,” she said, “because Jacksonville is a really great community.”

Lou Walsh, IV, CFA President

Ashley Helmick, executive director of the Women's Board with Kids Care Mobile ICU Team Member Cortni Sant CCT RN, Kendra McCrary, president of the Women's Board and Craig Skirvin CCT RRT in front of the Kids Kare helicopter. The Women's Board of Wolfson Children's Hospital is currently raising funds for this critical transport system.

JALA honors Pajcic & Pajcic at Equal Justice Awards

at the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid’s (JALA) 22nd Equal Justice Awards at the Marriott Jacksonville Downtown. Pajcic & Pajcic was recognized for its support for JALA and the community. In addition to donating $2 million to Edward Waters University and $1 million to the University of North Florida endowment, the firm has raised more than $1 million for JALA through its annual Yard Golf and Lawn Party event.

“The generosity and commitment the Pajcics have shown JALA over more than a decade is positively extraordinary,” said JALA CEO Jim Kowalski. “They have created and grown an event that is not only highly successful as a fundraiser but also a lot of fun and a chance to rub shoulders with sports celebrities.”

The Pajcic firm was founded 50 years ago by brothers Steve and the late Gary Pajcic. Steve’s son Michael and Gary’s sons Curt, Curry and Seth are partners in the firm today.

Murina Buncome Jerome with Melina Buncome

Jim Kowalski with Lois V. Ragsdale, Aaron J. Irving, Esq., Carol Miller, Kathy Para and Nancy Kinnally

Ronnie and Joslyn Graham Dennis Harrison with Nancy Kinnally City Councilman Michael Boylan with Michael Korn

Curry Pajcic with Steve Pajcic and Seth Pajcic

Brad Waldrop with Katie Blonski, Clyde Taylor and Darby Taylor

Nicholas McNamara with Bryan Gowdy and Jeff Witt

Mark Sieron with Curry and Seth Pajcic, Duke Regan and Bill Burns

Heidi Kemph, Esq., Donna MacRae and Angela Campbell

Lois V. Ragsdale with Aaron J. Irving, Esq., Carol Miller and Kathy Para

Attorney James Cummings launches Cummings Mediation

Longtime Jacksonville attorney James Cummings has founded Cummings Mediation, a full-service mediation firm handling all types of disputes, including both state and federal civil cases in all jurisdictions. Drawing on his nearly 20 years of experience as an attorney, Cummings helps parties work together to resolve their differences quickly and amicably.

“I always wanted to focus my energy and my talents on helping people solve problems, rather than just fighting,” Cummings said. “I am passionate about helping people settle cases.”

Cummings noted that by law, every civil lawsuit in Florida must go to mediation before going to trial. “Our judiciary recognized that 99 percent of lawsuits get settled before they ever get to trial,” he said.

“Our court system is overloaded and backlogged; mediators serve as neutral, impartial and unbiased facilitators, helping attorneys and their clients resolve their differences and settle their claims without expensive, frustrating and protracted litigation.”

While lawsuits can drag on for years, with multiple trials and appeals – racking up thousands of dollars in legal fees – mediation can provide an early resolution to a case, with many mediations being completed in less than a day.

“In just a few hours,” Cummings said, “you can reach an agreement that could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees.”

Mediation also gives the parties involved control over the outcome of their dispute, he added. “Mediation is the one time parties have any control – they can be the architects of their settlement instead of putting it in the hands of six strangers on a jury.”

Best of all, Cummings said, mediation brings finality to a case.

“There is no such thing as an appeal to a mediation settlement,” he said. “Once the parties reach agreement, the case is over.

“I absolutely love what I do,” Cummings continued. “I am passionate about finding solutions to problems, and I never give up.”

5 Star Veterans’ Loving receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Colonel honored as one of ‘12 Who Care’

For Five Star Veterans Center CEOCol. Len Loving USMC Ret., it was a night out with friends and family, enjoying an award show production and observing outstanding fellow citizens as they took home awards for their selfless acts. Unbeknownst to him, he was about to take home the Lifetime Achievement Award during the taping of the “12 Who Care” awards banquet, produced by First Coast News, Sept. 23, at Alhambra Dinner Theatre & Dining. Loving was recognized and praised for his tireless advocacy for veterans from all branches of service to have a place to call home and a reprieve from life’s difficulties. Alongside his partner and wife, Suzie, the pair has been making sure the lights stay on, and relief remains in sight for those needing their services. Upon receiving the award, Loving thanked his fellow service members and members of the leadership team, while making sure to honor his wife, Suzie. “She’s my best partner and my worst critic,” he shared, smiling from ear to ear.

James Cummings

Five Star Veterans Center Board Chairman Mike Hightower with Chief Administrative Officer Suzie Loving and her husband and honoree, CEO Col. Len Loving, USMC (Ret.), Board Member MG (Ret.) Gary Beard and his wife Elaine.

ULI North Florida to honor Aundra Wallace as 2024 Visionary Leader

The Urban Land Institute (ULI) North Florida District Council will honor Aundra Wallace as its 2024 Visionary Leader Award at its Oct. 22 Awards for Excellence Gala at Deerwood Castle. The award recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution within the real estate industry and the community.

“Aundra is an exemplary leader and the true embodiment of professionalism, knowledge and passion,” said GreenPointe Holdings CEO Ed Burr, the District Council’s 2021 Visionary Leader. “He is a driving force behind attracting investment and supporting economic development and job creation throughout Northeast Florida. Aundra’s commitment and contributions to our community are an inspiration to all. I cannot think of anyone more deserving to receive this award.”

Wallace is the president of JAXUSA Partnership, the regional economic development arm of JAX Chamber. He directs a staff of 16 in the areas of business development, international, workforce development, research and marketing. JAXUSA’s mission is to be a catalyst for economic growth and maximize the region’s unique resources to aggressively recruit jobs and capital investment in Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties.

Prior to joining JAXUSA, Wallace served as CEO of the City of Jacksonville’s Downtown Investment Authority, where he has directed economic development efforts in the city’s downtown, facilitating more than $150 million in public investment dollars that created more than $800 million in private capital investments during his tenure.

OneJax adds new board members, staff

OneJax recently added three new board members to support the interfaith organization’s efforts to promote respect and understanding among people of different religions, races and cultures.

Susan Schantz is a community trustee who has invested her time, talent and treasure in several local nonprofits, including the Women’s Giving Alliance and the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville.

Pastor John Newman is the senior pastor at The Sanctuary @ Mt. Calvary. Known for his strong communications skills, Newman provides pastoral care to 60 churches in Kenya and Uganda and serves as a counselor and advisor to business and political leaders locally and nationally.

Wanda Willis is vice president for civic leadership at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, where she oversees key strategic community engagement efforts.

“These three individuals bring a tremendous amount of experience and reach to our board,” said OneJax Board Chair Jerry Mallot. “As we go through the process of reimagining our agency, their diverse perspectives and real-world experience will be invaluable to our commitment to eliminate hate in – and unite – our community.”

In other OneJax news, Kierra “Kay” McCray has joined the organization as program and event coordinator. McCray is the founder of Kultivate Strategies, a company that empowers businesses and nonprofits to create meaningful, measurable and sustainable impact globally. In 2019, McCray was the recipient of the Cares Humanitarian Award for her transformative work with young girls through her former nonprofit, Purpose and PowHER. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Bethune Cookman University and a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from the University of North Florida.

Aundra Wallace

Susan Schantz

Wanda Willis

John Newman Kay McCray

Lennar donates $25,000 to Women’s Center of Jacksonville

Lennar Homes recently donated $25,000 to the Women’s Center of Jacksonville to support the organization’s programs and services for survivors of sexual assault.

“We are so grateful to Lennar Homes and President Melanie Raub for their support,” Director of Development Maria AlfonsoJohnson said.

Created in 1989, the Lennar Foundation partners with organizations that aid those less fortunate and make positive contributions to the community.

Emma Richards joins First Coast American Heart Association

Emma Richards has joined the First Coast American Heart Association as marketing and communications director.

In her new role, Richards will raise awareness of heart disease and stroke, which are the number one and number five causes of death in the United States, respectively.

“I am extremely passionate about improving the health of our community, especially because heart disease and stroke impact so many lives on the First Coast,” Richards said. “I know the work we are doing is making a difference, and I am thrilled to join the American Heart Association in creating a world of longer, healthier lives for all.”

Richards previously worked at the American Council of Learned Societies, Sage Publications and the University of Florida Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in public relations and communications management from the University of Florida.

Camille Harrison to chair First Coast Heart Challenge

Camille Harrison will serve as the 2024-2025 chair of the First Coast Heart Challenge™, working to engage local companies and employees in joining the fight against heart disease and stroke.

As chair of the Heart Challenge™, Harrison will lead a team of 22 First Coast executives to recruit companies and organizations to take part in various Heart Challenge™ initiatives to raise funds for the American Heart Association while leading actionoriented conversations about employee health, corporate engagement, community health and community transformation.

“Heart disease claims far too many lives on the First Coast and beyond, and like most people, I have seen its impacts within my own family,” said Harrison, executive vice president, Medicare and chief innovation and experience officer for GuideWell. “I am passionate about enhancing health outcomes, education and awareness in our community, and I am honored to lead these efforts alongside the American Heart Association.”

HYDE GROVE

Camille Harrison

Bridgett Snyder of Lennar Homes presents Alejandra Santiago with a $25,000 donation to the Women’s Center of Jacksonville.

Emma Richards

Moore, Morris join Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty recently welcomed two new real estate professionals to its Metropolitan team.

Alicia Moore brings expertise in the luxury home, military relocation and sports and entertainment markets. Punch Kollins Morris draws on her 20 years of military service and real estate background in South Carolina and the Mississippi Gulf Coast to serve clients.

“We are thrilled to add Alicia and Punch to our team,” said Josh Cohen, managing broker of Berkshire Hathaway’s Metropolitan office, with offices in Avondale and San Marco.

Baptist MD Anderson earns global honor for use of digital tools

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center has become the first organization in the world to earn top recognition for using digital tools to improve patient engagement and outcomes outside of hospital settings by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

HIMSS’s Community Care Outcomes Maturity Model (C-COMM) measures how health care organizations leverage information and technology to better engage with patients, families and caregivers across community-based service environments such as primary care, home health and telehealth. Baptist MD Anderson received C-COMM Stage 7 validation – the highest level of accreditation awarded by HIMSS, a non-profit body dedicated to improving the quality, safety, cost effectiveness and access to health care through information and technology systems.

The elite recognition signifies the full integration of well-known digital tools like MyChart that allows health information to be shared effectively between patients and their clinical teams, with others such as the Baptist Access app, which features interactive maps, “Find a Doctor” and “Parking Reminder” tools to help patients find where they parked and how to navigate to a specific location inside our health care facilities. The integration and optimization of these tools enhances patient engagement, experience, quality of care and safety and ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes.

“Today, the majority of treatments, care and services take place outside the confines of hospitals or acute care settings,” said Bill Putnam, MD, FACS, medical director of Baptist MD Anderson. “Digital tools help patients navigate their health care journey and help us connect with them and meet them where they are. They allow us to manage and adjust treatments to ensure patients receive the top quality, patient-centered cancer care they have come to expect from us.”

Donald Smith Jr. appointed to Electrical Contractors Licensing Board

After more than 46 years of proudly serving Historic Avondale and the greater Jacksonville area, Hooshang Oriental Rug Gallery, a cherished family-owned business, will be closing its doors.

To celebrate Mr. Hooshang’s legacy and express gratitude to our community, we're offering substantial discounts on our rugs from October 8th to 20th, from 10am to 5pm. Come choose a timeless piece of art that can be passed down through generations.

We invite you to take advantage of these special savings, as a way of honoring the deep connections we’ve built with our extended family—our valued customers.

Donald Smith Jr. was recently appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the Electrical Contractors Licensing Board.

The chief commercial officer of Miller Electric Company, Smith is active in the community, serving as a member of the American Heart Association Heart Ball Executive Committee. He also serves on the River Club of Jacksonville Board of Directors, the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors. Smith attended Florida State College at Jacksonville.

Smith is one of six appointments DeSantis made to the board. Also appointed were Douglas Bassett, Rafael Echarri, Robert Lombardo, Kevin McElroy and Clarence Tibbs.

Alicia Moore

Punch Morris

Donald Smith Jr.

NAI Hallmark welcomes Tiffany Wein

Commercial real estate and property management firm NAI Hallmark has welcomed Tiffany Wein as a senior associate.

Wein will work with both tenants and landlords, representing industrial, medical office and retail clients. She brings more than seven years of commercial real estate experience to her new role, including work in leasing, capital markets and development.

Prior to NAI Hallmark, Wein worked as a development associate at Scannell Properties, a national industrial real estate developer, leading prospecting efforts for new development sites in the greater Atlanta area. She also worked at Voya on the commercial mortgage loan team, where she closed more than $1.4 billion in commercial real estate loans.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tiffany to our team as we continue our commitment to attracting top talent in our industry,” NAI Hallmark Co-CEO Keith Goldfaden said. “Tiffany’s expertise and passion perfectly align with our core values, and we are confident that she will be a key asset in advancing our mission to be the leading commercial real estate services firm in Northeast Florida.”

Disguise of the Storm follows an undercover investigation into a possible human trafficker with ties to al-Qaeda, set against the backdrop of a recent hurricane. When a U.S. intelligence agency fears there’s a connection between Pakistani “Risky” Bhakta’s suspected prostitution ring and al-Qaeda, Glynn is assigned to find a missing father in search of his runaway daughter while he infiltrates Bhakta’s operations.

Glynn soon discovers Bhakta has total control over the women he employs – and is confronted with a twisted terrorist plot of genocide planned for Western civilization.

To write the novel, Whittington drew on his personal experiences as a first responder after 2008’s Hurricane Ike hit the Texas Gulf Coast, where most of the action in his new book takes place.

In Disguise of the Storm is the fourth book in the Parker Glynn series, which includes Second Strike, Dopplegänged and Free Surface Effect. Glynn also appears in short stories in The Devil You Don’t and Seized Desires. The books are available online at amazon.com and www.ronwhittington.com

THE PLAYERS to mark 50th anniversary by awarding $50,000 grants to local nonprofits

THE PLAYERS Championship will mark its 50th anniversary by awarding $50,000 grants to local nonprofits.

“As THE PLAYERS looks back on five decades in Northeast Florida, it’s only right that we find a special way to give back to the community that has given so much to us,” Executive Director Lee Smith said. “These grants are our way of honoring this milestone

and demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting the organizations that make a real difference in our hometown.”

Since THE PLAYERS began in 1974, the tournament has generated more than $100 million for Northeast Florida charities.

THE PLAYERS Grant Program is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that operate within Baker, Clay,

Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties and align with THE PLAYERS' primary focus areas, including youth services, education, character development, health, wellness and sports and military support.

Applications for THE PLAYERS Grant Program close on Oct. 31. For information on how to apply visit www.theplayers.com/community

Stellar completes Bolles’ Frank R. Sanchez & Hope and Dana E. Fender Center for Innovation

Architecture, engineering and construction firm Stellar has completed construction of The Bolles School’s new Frank R. Sanchez & Hope and Dana E. Fender Center for Innovation.

The three-story center on the school’s San Jose campus will house Bolles’ science, math and technology programs. State-of-the-art specialty science labs include an Anatomage table – a virtual dissection table used by medical schools around the world. The center will also have areas for advanced robotics, computer programming, IT, engineering and design courses. In addition, classrooms and collaboration spaces can be configured into different sizes to encourage discussion and creativity.

The center also may host special events, such as fundraisers or graduations. The Bolles Center for Innovation opened to students when the school year began on August 14.

United Way names Stein Fellowship Class of 2025

United Way of Northeast Florida has named 15 rising leaders to its Stein Fellowship Class of 2025.

The Class of 2025 includes:

• Allyssa Petersen, manager, grid research, JEA

• Benjamin Cummins, development coordinator, Nassau County Council on Aging

• Catherine Kendall, associate account executive, Dobility, Inc.

• Christopher Toms, coordinator, events and NextUp JAX, JAX Chamber

• Claire Ross, program manager of talent development and recruiting, Miller Electric Company

• Deanna Ellison, chief operating officer, MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation

• Gabrielle Williams, director, student inclusion, Jacksonville University Holden Scyster, chief information officer, READ USA

• Kendra Cash, corporate/enterprise strategist, JEA

• Kiara Ampuero-Cerdan, assistant supervisor, Mayo Clinic LaMiriam Johnson, leadership development solutions specialist, JEA

• Margaux Burton, customer experience specialist, JEA

• Mayanna Perez, consultant product design and new market solutions, Florida Blue

• Sheronda Holzendorf, certified behavioral health case manager supervisor, Quality Life Center

• Tori Foster, director, JAXUSA Partnership

Founded in 2007 by philanthropists Linda and the late David Stein, the Stein Fellowship is a yearlong immersive leadership and mentorship experience for young professionals ages 21 to 40 living in Northeast Florida. The fellowship is designed to build leadership capacity, hone core professional development competencies and create strong relationships with a network of peers and mentors.

“I am thrilled with this year’s class and excited to see the fellows grow in their passion for serving others,” Linda Stein said. “When David and I founded the Stein Fellowship, it was with the hope of building a multi-generational program of leadership and mentorship. In partnership with United Way, our fellowship continues to make a difference in Northeast Florida and improve the lives of others. David would be so happy to hear the news of our next class, and I know he will be guiding us as this impactful year unfolds.”

The Bolles’ School’s new Frank R. Sanchez & Hope and Dana E. Fender Center for Innovation houses its math, science and technology programs.

Coastal Speakeasy theme highlights Delicious Destinations

Sip, Savor and Support: A Coastal Speakeasy” was the theme for the 22nd annual Delicious Destinations to benefit Ascension St. Vincent’s.

Held Sept. 6-7 at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, the two-day gourmet gathering included a three-course luncheon with wine pairings and a gala tasting event featuring dishes prepared by celebrated chefs.

This year’s event raised a record-breaking $374,000 for Ascension St. Vincent’s community outreach programs. See more Delicious Destinations photos on page 29.

Daniel Brown with Heather and Alan Creel

Kathleen Melvin and Danielle Imbriano with Meghan Moriarty and Gretchen Kernbach Farheen Narvel and Dr. Ravish Narvel with Roshni Patel

Drs Nina & SamerGaras

Dr . Abdi & Kristina Abbassi

Tosha and Amy Smith

Allan Iosue and Jen McMahan Meghan and Dan Hennessy Brisket, wings, pulled pork and more were on the menu Sept. Bourbon & BBQ fundraiser at Bowing Oaks. In addition to barbecue music featuring the Snacks Blues Band and Henry Jones.

Drink, and Florida Theatre’s

BBQ Bash

annual

Cowboys and cowgirls kick up their heels for American Cancer Society at Cowford Ball

Cowboy boots and Stetson hats were on full display at the Cowford Ball Sept. 21, as more than 350 attendees kicked up their heels at Deerwood Castle to benefit the American Cancer Society.

The evening began with a VIP reception at the Jacksonville Sports Car Museum, followed by dinner, live and silent auctions and even a chance to ride a mechanical bull. Live music was provided by The Band Be Easy.

Modeled after the American Cancer Society’s nationwide Cattle Baron’s Ball, the Cowford Ball takes its name from the moniker given to the downtown spot where cattle and horses would cross the St. Johns River. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $10 million for cancer research.

Pre-holiday-season bash benefiting United Way’s Veteran services initiative, Mission United

Thursday, Nov. 14 6-8 p.m. U.S.S. Orleck Navy Pier

DJ AND DANCING | HORS D’OEUVRES BEER, WINE AND COCKTAILS

Ashley and Will English

Donovan and MichaelCarn

Chelsea and Dominic Zirpola

Clay and Elizabeth Watterson

Annie and Bryan Klein

Jim Loos and Nancy Moss

Camile and Alan Pitts

Robin and Jim Mendoza Vickie and Bill Behan

Ron and Katelin Olson Sept. 12, when the Florida Theatre hosted its

Blues, Brews, barbecue favorites, the event featured bourbons, craft beer, spirits

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic was established in 1974 and has handled more than 12,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases, recovering more than $1.5 billion for our clients. From the beginning, outstanding service was the signature of our firm and remains so today.

Our 17 attorneys have amassed more than 550 years of combined legal experience and zealously represent clients in their time of need. Some of the firm’s practice areas include car, motorcycle, and truck crashes, medical malpractice, as well as litigation concerning dangerous consumer products and unsafe motor vehicles.

Martindale-Hubbell's list of Top Ranked Law Firms

MOCA Executive Director Caitlỉn Doherty with Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville Executive Director Diana Donovan, University of North Florida President Moez Limayem and City Council Vice President, Kevin Carrico (District 4).

Steve Williams with Peggy Ezell and Leland Wykoff

Tara Roa and Britt Morgan-Saks

Lance Vickery with Emil Alzamora and Annie Walker

MOCA Board Vice Chairman Scott Brown with Benedicte Brown and Sally Anne Brown

Constellation Furyk & Friends returns, tournament benefits Community Hospice, Operation Shower

David Duval, Vijay Singh and Retief Goosen are among the PGA TOUR Champions golfers who will participate in the 2024 Constellation Furyk & Friends golf tournament, which returns to Timuquana Country Club Sept. 30 through Oct. 6.

This year’s tournament will once again feature some of the top golfers on the Champions tour, along with a variety of fan activities and refreshments. Among the new offerings will be the Cigar Lounge (6th green) and Kendall-Jackson Tasting Room at Hole 16, where fans can enjoy daily specials and exclusive wine tastings. Additional refreshment options will include the Circle K

the 7th green, North Florida Sales Beer Garden and Tailgate Village: Located at Holes 17 and 18, the village will feature craft cocktails, food trucks and a craft beer truck as well as live football broadcasts.

Tournament schedule

Pre-tournament festivities begin Sept. 29 with several private pro-am and charity events. The Furyk Foundation Concert featuring the Brothers Osborne and Phillip Phillips happens Oct. 1 at Daily’s Place, followed by the official Pro-Am Oct. 2, during which the golf course will be closed to the public.

Round 1 of tournament play begins Friday, Oct. 4, with Round 2 on Saturday,

Oct. 5. The final tournament round happens Sunday, Oct. 6. Community impact

Since its inception, the Constellation Furyk & Friends tournament has raised more than $3.5 million for local charities. Among the charities that will benefit from the 2024 tournament are Community Hospice & Palliative Care and Operation Shower. The tournament has also joined with Beaches Habitat for Humanity to build a new home for a local veteran.

“We are grateful for the commitment of Constellation Furyk & Friends and Jim and Tabitha Furyk,” Beaches Habitat for Humanity CEO Steve Gilbert said. “Thanks to their support, we are able

to provide a new home for a deserving veteran, helping him achieve strength, stability and self-reliance.”

Tournament tickets are available at www.constellationfurykandfriends.com

AT&T funds grant to elevate girls’ education

Pace Center for Girls has received a $100,000 grant from AT&T to support the nonprofit’s career and college readiness programs for girls and young women.

A formal check presentation took place at Pace’s Clay County center in celebration of National Literacy Month, highlighting the shared commitment of both organizations to the education and empowerment of young women.

“One of the greatest responsibilities we have as a society is to ensure all girls and young women have access to opportunities that set them up for success in adulthood,” said Mary Marx, president and CEO of Pace Center for Girls. “AT&T’s investment allows us to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of girls across Florida, providing them with the critical support needed to succeed academically and in their future careers.”

The funding will be used to cover scholarships for girls in Duval, Clay, Leon, Escambia-Santa Rosa, Volusia-Flagler, Orange, Hillsborough and Miami-Dade counties. The grant will further Pace’s mission of equipping girls, who have faced adversity, with the necessary tools to obtain a high school diploma or GED, develop long-term employability skills, and pursue post-secondary education.

ParTee Porch near

Steve Stricker tees off at the first hole of the 2022 Furyk & Friends tournament.

PACE Center for Girls receives a $100,000 grant from AT&T to support the organization’s career and college readiness programs for girls and young women.

“Sip, Savor and Support: A Coastal Speakeasy” was the theme for the 22nd annual Delicious Destinations to benefit Ascension St. Vincent’s.

Held Sept. 6-7 at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, the two-day gourmet gathering included a three-course luncheon with wine pairings and a gala tasting event featuring dishes prepared by celebrated chefs. The

Music at the Cathedral

Delicious Destinations luncheon benefits Ascension St. Vincent’s

event kicked off with a three-course luncheon that featured cooking demonstrations of each course by Chef Colin McClimans of Washington, DC restaurant Nina May.

Ascension Florida Chief Mission Integration Officer Ann Varner noted that Sept. 27 is the feast day of Ascension St. Vincent’s namesake, St. Vincent De Paul, who founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633.

“The Daughters were a community of women who saw hope and possibility despite the challenges they faced,” Varner said. “All these years later, I don’t think much has changed. Ascension St. Vincent’s ministry is only possible because of the faithful – people like our associates, our physicians, our providers, leaders, volunteers, donors and partners; faithful

people like each of you gathered here, uniquely called by God to the work placed before us: Take care for the people in our community, most in need.”

See more photos from the Sept. 7 Delicious Destinations evening gala on page 24.

WITH A RECEPTION FOLLOWING.

Monica Batista, Bill Remley and Coleen Rickey

Beverly Flanagan and Amy Swartz

Mary Anne Thomas and Kelly Barrera Ascension St. Vincent’s CEO Scott Kashman and Carrie Miller-Kafrouni

Jean Grimsley, Kristina Abbassi and Pam Johnson

Sofia Muenyi and Karin Stottman Sara Coryell and Jenn Kjellman

By Peggy Harrell Jennings

Folks hopped over puddles as if channeling their inner Gene Kelly, dancing in the rain, during September Artwalk. Those stormy clouds didn’t chase everyone from the place; downtown was buzzing as art enthusiasts hip hopped from Southlight Gallery where photographer Zachary Duke was the featured artist, to The No Name Gallery for the wild and wonderful artwork of Shaun Thurston. A walk down the lane to Leigh Fogle’s Creative Exchange CX904 Gallery 50 N. Laura Street Gallery brought folks to see artists Tiffany Manning and David Engdahl. Manning’s intriguing, colorful, abstract paintings are perfect complements to Engdahl’s elegant, smooth sculptures.

People were chasing the clouds away with dance lessons at the Children’s Chorus

Chasing the clouds away

and creating cartoons at ZINESTER meet up at the Downtown Library.

Despite stormy weather, there was a glorious feeling at The 100th Anniversary Celebration for MOCA. Members and guests marveled at the sculptures of Emil Alzamora and the diversity of “Fill My Heart with Hope” works from the Gordon W. Baily Collection. Frank Stella’s “Project Atrium” continues to inspire awe.

Jacksonville Artists Guild member Helen Moody’s paintings at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church are lovely to behold. The church hosts exhibits of local artists on a regular basis and embraces the concept of “Art that praises- art that teaches.”

Larry Wilson’s exhibit “Symbiosis” up through Oct. 10 at FSCJ South Campus, examines and captures the dynamics of harmony and discord as nature and humans interact for bold, thought-provoking paintings.

The Jessie was buzzing at the reception for the “Un-American Gods” exhibit (through Feb. 12) by Jacksonville native Marcus Williams, whose work has been described as “powerful.” Also at the Jessie are Annelies Dykgraaf and Marsha Hatcher’s bold and innovative paintings and woodcut prints. Check out The Florida

Mining Gallery’s sculptures by Jonathan McCree and the exhibit of Edward Walton Wilcox works at Touche’ Gallery on Herschel through Nov. 15 and Dawn Montgomery and Michael Cenci at Happy Medium Books Café on Park Street.

Jacksonville’s newest sculpture, the beautiful and poignant piece “On Allison’s Wings” at Stockton Park by artist David Main, is a personal symbol for the many people who knew and loved this young woman. Its beauty captures the heartbeat of the Angels for Allison organization named in her honor.

Shining brightly: Anna Miller won the poster design competition for the San Marco Art Festival coming up in November, and Erin Kendrick was named Art Educator of the Year by the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville.

FSCJ Gallery is hosting an interesting and vibrant exhibit. “Express Yourself” features 54 images by 30 participating JAG artists (including yours truly) juried by Lynn Lewis, FSCJ director of programming and operations. Don’t miss this one! And if you are beating the heat out of town via JIA, check out Cliff Buckley’s exhibit “Ebb and Flow” at the airport gallery.

Play on! Play on!

The inaugural RAP and Jacksonville Historical Society Music Tour is coming up on Saturday, Oct. 12. The main stage is at Willowbranch Park. Get tickets for pop-up exhibits, mini-concerts, guided tours and so much more! Featured band: Curt Towne. For more information, visit riveresideavondale. org. You can’t beat this!

To paraphrase Miro: You can immerse yourself in art for a week and then never think of it again, or be exposed to it for a second and think of it all your life.

Saturday, Oct. 5

Thursday, Oct. 10 Lufrano

Friday, Oct. 11 - Sunday, Oct. 13

Friday, Oct. 11

Friday Musicale

A Tribute to Queen 645 Oak St. | feverup.com

Saturday, Oct. 12

Riverside Avendale Preservation Music Tour Willowbranch Park | 1 to 6 p.m.

Sponsored by RAP and the Jacksonville Historical Society

Sunday, Oct. 13

Opening reception for “View from My Window” 2 to 4 p.m. | TAC Gallery | 301 E. Admas St.

Tuesday, Oct. 15

Florida Ballet presents “Dracula” Florida Theatre| floridaballet.org

Zachary Duke Tiffany Manning Shaun Thurston

David Engdahl and Dean Scott

Diantha York-Ripley and Helen Moody

Florida Humanities marks 60th anniversary of Beatles’ landmark Jacksonville concert

First integrated concert in the Southeast hailed as milestone in civil rights movement

By Jennifer Logue

Florida Humanities marked the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ concert in Jacksonville last month with a special lecture and musical performance.

Held Sept. 12 at the Ritz Theatre, “1964: When The Beatles Rocked Florida” was equal parts education and entertainment: Attendees not only relived the heady days of Beatlemania through a performance by The Beatles tribute band Liverpool Live, but also gained insight into the historical context and significance of the Jacksonville concert – the first integrated concert in the Southeast.

Bob Kealing, author of Good Day Sunshine State, set the stage for the evening’s presentation, noting that in 1964, the First Coast was a focal point for clashes and confrontations in the civil rights movement. Just a few months before the concert, in fact, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had been arrested in St. Augustine for attempting to dine at Monson’s Motor Lodge. Two weeks later, the murder of three civil rights workers in Mississippi made headlines across the nation.

It was amid this simmering racial tension and violence that the Fab Four were touring America. But The Beatles’ contract stipulated that the band would only perform before integrated audiences. And Jacksonville was going to be the first test to see who would fold: The Beatles or the South.

“The Beatles unwittingly inserted themselves into a historic and violent struggle over racial equality,” Kealing said. “Jacksonville proved to the first opportunity in America for The Beatles to advance their developing worldview, as agents of social change.”

Winds of change

For a few days, it appeared that confrontation wouldn’t happen at all, as Hurricane Dora stole the Fab Four’s thunder, forcing their flight to divert to Key West to avoid the devastating storm, which hit the River City as a category 2 hurricane on Sept. 10. Two days later, however, The Beatles went ahead with their Gator Bowl concert –and to an integrated audience.

Among the attendees was Dr. Kitty Oliver, then a 16-year-old Black girl who had grown up in a segregated Jacksonville, drinking from separate water fountains and attending segregated performances. Oliver had heard The Beatles on local AM radio station WAPE and was determined to see them when they played Jacksonville.

“I think that what struck me most

about The Beatles was how they freely acknowledged the influence of Black musicians on their music,” said Oliver, now an author with an MFA in Creative Writing and a Ph.D. in Comparative Studies.

While many of Oliver’s Black friends also liked the group, the controversy over the integrated performance had them concerned. She resolved to attend the concert alone.

“I didn’t know the backstory of The Beatles’ decision not to perform to a segregated audience – I was 16,” she said.

“But I knew that in the summer of 1964, my world was already changing. I had participated in a voter registration drive, I picketed in front of Morrison’s cafeteria, protesting segregation there…so maybe the times had a lot to do with putting some starch in my backbone.”

Oliver earned the money for her concert ticket by doing housekeeping chores and made the trek alone across hurricane-battered Jacksonville to the Gator Bowl.

“I walked into that concert, and I was surrounded by a sea of whiteness,” she recalled. “My antennae were up: Was there any danger that might be present? I remember sitting and waiting for the concert to start, holding myself close so that I wouldn’t bump anyone by accident.”

But there were no confrontations or altercations at the concert, Oliver said, “because our eyes were trained on that stage, and The Beatles were about to come on. And when they did, we all rose together as soon as the music started.

“Music became the window to a bigger world.”

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 26, 2024

2 P.M. - 7 P.M. Jacksonville Fairgrounds exhibition hall

A Magical Evening!

Trick or treat for toys at each 14-foot-high Fantasy Door

Stroll Magical Meet and Greet Streets to see favorite costumed characters

Show off your dance moves in the Family Disco

Stop by the Grown-Up Grotto and Food Court to enjoy gourmet food and drinks

Visit the Bootiful Salon for a Spooktacular make-over

Dr. Kitty Oliver recounts attending the Beatles' only Florida performance in Jacksonville – the first integrated concert in the Southeast.

Liverpool Live performs at “1964 When The Beatles Rocked Florida”

Ortega Scout Troop 26 celebrates centennial

The year was 1924. Calvin Coolidge was president, the Charleston was the popular dance craze and a new museum of contemporary art was opening in Jacksonville.

That same year, Boy Scout Troop 26 was chartered in Jacksonville, beginning at a local church before moving soon after to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Ortega. The troop has been based there ever since.

To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Troop 26 held a centennial dinner at St. Mark’s Youth Center in the spring, offering an opportunity for both current scouts and alumni to celebrate and reminisce over the activities, experiences and values the Scouts have instilled in generations of Jacksonville youth. So integral to the local community is the troop, in fact, that its ranks today include scouts whose older brothers, fathers and even grandfathers were a part of Troop 26.

For example, the troop’s most recent Eagle Scout candidate, William Allen V, is a fourth-generation Troop 26 scout. In addition to his brother who is also currently a scout, Allen’s grandfather was an Eagle Scout member of the troop, and his father, great-grandfather and great-uncle all served as scoutmasters.

Former scoutmaster Matt Morgan, meanwhile, attained his Eagle Scout as a Troop 26 scout. His father also served

as a troop leader, his brother participated in the troop with him, and his son Luke later went on to earn his Eagle through Troop 26.

Current Scoutmaster T.J. Laquidara – a police officer with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office – was himself a troop member as a youth, earning the prestigious Eagle Scout designation.

“It has been an honor to be scoutmaster of Troop 26 and to be involved in the troop now for over 16 years,” Laquidara said. “It has made a tremendous impact on my life.”

Wolfson golfer makes hole in one

Wolfson High School sophomore Michael Rattigan made a hole in one Sept. 10 while playing in a competitive golf match with the Wolfson team at Blue Cypress Golf Course in Arlington. The first Wolfson student in more than 20 years to hit

play, Rattigan is expected

championships this fall.

Troop 26 gathered outside the Youth Center at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.

Troop 26’s most recent Eagle Project is a trail kiosk sign for the Florida Trailnear Gold Head Branch State Park, completed by William Allen V.

CISV hosts international celebration

Riverside Presbyterian Church and Day School recently hosted youth from eight countries for an “Open Day” international celebration.

The youth were in the Jacksonville area for a global youth meeting provided by CISV Jacksonville, the local chapter of the international nonprofit that educates and inspires action for a more just and peaceful world through leadership programs for youth and adults.

At the “Open Day” event, youth from Costa Rica, Italy, Sweden and the USA posed trivia questions to the audience about their countries. Groups from Mexico, Portugal and Turkey performed dances from their countries, while the Norway contingent showed a video about their country’s Constitution Day. Attendees were then able to visit tables for

each participating country, sampling food and sweets and visiting with the 12- and 13-year-olds and their adult leaders.

CISV is known for creating lifelong friendships stemming from mutual experiences and the desire to make a difference in local communities and the world. Local youth can experience CISV activities without going abroad: This past summer, CISV hosted a free two-week day camp for 9- to 11-year-olds with a grant from Kids Hope Alliance. Campers participated in a mix of education, cultural and sporting activities that emphasized cooperation, teamwork and friendship.

During the school year, the CISV Junior Branch offers monthly activities for kids 10 and up as well as a “minicamp” over President’s Day weekend from February 14-17, 2025.

Military families participate in outdoor exploration program

More than 200 military youth and their family members were treated to activities in local wilderness parks and preserves through the Blue Star Outdoor Exploration program, a partnership between the National Park Service’s Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Timucuan Parks Foundation (TPF) and Blue Star Families Jacksonville.

“This year’s program introduced these military families to the amazing assets and rich history that we find in our parks and preserves through a partnership with the national nonprofit and our park partners,” said TPF Program and Outreach Director Felicia Boyd. “We taught them the basics of ethical angling and introduced them

The Episcopal experience means learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our graduates Seek Understanding as lifelong learners; Develop a Sense of Self earned through challenge; Live with Honor and Purpose, choosing to lead, do good, and serve others; and Pursue a Life of Faith, in a way meaningful to them while respecting the dignity of every human being. Across our Four Pillars — Academics, Athletics, Fine Arts, and Spiritual Life — Episcopal students find their passions while shaping who, not what, they will become.

to the Gullah Geechee fishing heritage, connected them to the history in our city, state and national parks, and showcased the ecology that thrives in our preserved natural spaces.”

The Blue Star families participated in a Junior Ranger Angler fishing clinic held at William F. Sheffield Regional Park. Youth ages 6 to 17 and their parents were taught how to properly use angling equipment, including fishing poles, hooks, lures, and nets. Timucuan Preserve and TPF hosted the military families at the Kingsley Heritage Celebration, an annual event held to celebrate African heritage and remember the enslaved who lived at Kingsley Plantation.

Local military families participated in a variety of wilderness activities through the Blue Star Outdoor Exploration program.

Students from eight countries recently participated in an Open Day international celebration at Riverside Presbyterian Church and Day School sponsored by CISV Jacksonville.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville dedicates Haskell Center for Science and Student Life

The Episcopal School of Jacksonville recently dedicated the new Haskell Center for Science and Student Life.

The Episcopal School of Jacksonville (ESJ) recently dedicated the Haskell Center for Science and Student Life.

The building was dedicated and blessed at a student-focused ceremony in August. Lead donors to the building were recognized with a special event in the building’s new Harden Hall dining room, followed by a thank you reception for all leadership donors on all three

campuses. The facility also includes a new STEM center.

“We can now provide exceptional opportunities for our students because all of our donors shared our collective vision for what this space could be,” said Head of School Rev. Adam Greene. “We are here because of their sacrificial generosity and their spirit of love and giving.”

The new Haskell Center for Science and Student Life was envisioned as a transformative facility that harmonizes academic rigor with student engagement, providing an environment for scientific exploration and vibrant student life. Designed to foster innovation and collaboration, the building features state-of-the-art science and STEM labs, each equipped with technology and resources that support sustainability initiatives and real-time data collection.

“This building is not just a structure,” said Nihal Haddad Alwakeel, Haskell senior design manager, public facilities. “It is a vibrant ecosystem where students are empowered to explore their passions, develop critical skills, and prepare for the future.”

Bolles welcomes international students

Bolles welcomed a group of new international upper school students who are part of the Resident Life program this school year. Before the first day of school, these students participated in the English Language Learner Orientation (ELLO), an initiative designed to provide a fun and informative start to the student experience on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus.

Under the guidance of Bolles upper school teacher Danielle Jones, the students engaged in activities to help them prepare for success both inside and outside of the classroom. From English language classes covering grammar and U.S. history to class

Don’t Forget To Brush & Floss! Happy HALLOWEEN!

schedule scavenger hunts, the group gained valuable insight into how to get the most out of their time at Bolles.

This year’s Resident Life students are from all corners of the globe, including Austria, the Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, the Cayman Islands, China, Denmark, Germany, Guatemala, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Mexico, Mongolia, Panama, Russia, Saint Lucia, Serbia, Singapore, Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Bishop Kenny students named National Merit Semifinalists; school awards AP capstone diplomas

Bishop Kenny High School seniors Thomas Cratem, Jack Liuzzo and Jordin Pudpud have been named National Merit Semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among the 972 Florida students to be designated as semifinalists due to their high scores on the PSAT exam administered to more than 75,000 Florida juniors in October 2023.

In other Bishop Kenny news, 20 students earned the AP Capstone Diploma™ during the 2023-24 school year. The AP Capstone Diploma program helps students develop critical thinking, research, collaboration and presentation skills that are essential to academic success.

Five of the 20 students are currently seniors: Saoirse Comerford, Ava Farnham, Maxine Librero, Maria Vittoria Rutherford and Sachin Somnarain. The following students are currently enrolled as freshmen in college: Franco Chaluja, Clare Coyle, Mariana Cratem, Alexis Graves, Cristina Jones, Eleanor Kirsch, Alena Lee, Kaylee Mahony, Jackson Martin, Brianna McMillan, Matthew Phan, Matthew Salomone, Melanie Staples, Alejandro Vinas and Amanda Waldrep.

To receive the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research and on four additional AP® Exams of their choice.

Help shape Daniel Kids’ stories with double the impact

Help shape Daniel Kids’ stories with double the impact

We all have a story – where we grew up, the people who shaped us, the challenges we faced and the dreams we chased. But too often for the children at Daniel, the start of the story is marked by pain, abuse and abandonment.

We all have a story – where we grew up, the people who shaped us, the challenges we faced and the dreams we chased. But too often for the children at Daniel, the start of the story is marked by pain, abuse and abandonment.

Instead of a loving, stable environment, many face uncertainty and fear at a young age. That was all too true for 14-year-old Christopher*, who grew up in an abusive household. In addition to this difficult start, he was also diagnosed with ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Even after being adopted by a loving family, Christopher continued to struggle with depression and anxiety, resulting in serious behavioral problems.

Instead of a loving, stable environment, many face uncertainty and fear at a young age. That was all too true for 14-year-old Christopher*, who grew up in an abusive household. In addition to this difficult start, he was also diagnosed with ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Even after being adopted by a loving family, Christopher continued to struggle with depression and anxiety, resulting in serious behavioral problems.

Fortunately, Christopher’s parents connected him with Daniel’s Residential Treatment Center, an in-patient treatment center for children aged 5-17 with severe mental and behavioral issues.

Fortunately, Christopher’s parents connected him with Daniel’s Residential Treatment Center, an in-patient treatment center for children aged 5-17 with severe mental and behavioral issues.

“After several months, our son came home with a different outlook,” said Christopher’s mom. “While he still struggles with becoming easily frustrated, our son was able to learn new techniques and skills for handling his feelings in healthier ways.”

“After several months, our son came home with a different outlook,” said Christopher’s mom. “While he still struggles with becoming easily frustrated, our son was able to learn new techniques and skills for handling his feelings in healthier ways.”

With the right support, children like Christopher can add new, positive chapters to their stories. Through Daniel’s proven programs, they find healing and unlock

With the right support, children like Christopher can add new, positive chapters to their stories. Through Daniel’s proven programs, they find healing and unlock

their potential. But as a nonprofit, Daniel needs the community’s help in ensuring these children’s futures are bright.

their potential. But as a nonprofit, Daniel needs the community’s help in ensuring these children’s futures are bright.

This month, Daniel is striving to raise $140,000 to celebrate 140 years of improving the odds for kids and families in crisis. Thanks to the generosity of the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds, the first $50,000 in donations made during October will be matched.

This month, Daniel is striving to raise $140,000 to celebrate 140 years of improving the odds for kids and families in crisis. Thanks to the generosity of the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds, the first $50,000 in donations made during October will be matched.

In addition to helping youth at its Residential Treatment Center, Daniel connects children with foster and adoptive homes, helps homeless teens secure housing and develop independent living skills, and plays a vital role in preventing child abuse by strengthening at-risk families.

In addition to helping youth at its Residential Treatment Center, Daniel connects children with foster and adoptive homes, helps homeless teens secure housing and develop independent living skills, and plays a vital role in preventing child abuse by strengthening at-risk families.

“Despite their rough beginnings, these children have the potential to turn their lives around and lead positive, fulfilling lives,” said Lesley Wells, CEO and President of Daniel. “With the generosity of donors, we can make a lasting difference many years to come.”

“Despite their rough beginnings, these children have the potential to turn their lives around and lead positive, fulfilling lives,” said Lesley Wells, CEO and President of Daniel. “With the generosity of donors, we can make a lasting difference for many years to come.”

Daniel supports an average of 5,000 children and families each year. To donate toward Daniel’s goal - with double the impact during October - please visit danielkids.org or call Dave Cognetta at 904-296-1055 ext. 1033.

Daniel supports an average of 5,000 children and families each year. To donate toward Daniel’s goal - with double the impact during October - please visit danielkids.org or call Dave Cognetta at 904-296-1055 ext. 1033.

*Name and picture changed for privacy.

*Name and picture changed for privacy.

Jack Liuzzo, Jordin Pudpud and Thomas Cratem have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists.

LOCAL FOLKS

Natalie Wells

By Jennifer Jensen

While Jacksonville native Natalie Wells might be part of the team that makes up Oak Wells Aquatics, she didn’t always play such an integral part of the business.

Prior to joining her husband, Ryan, in 2023 as a project consultant, she was an elementary teacher for 16 years.

“I always wanted to be a teacher,” Wells said. “I had two really great ones myself: my middle school composition teacher and my high school English teacher.”

Wells grew up off San Jose, went to Bishop Kenny High School and left Jacksonville to attend Florida State University. She was a creative writing major and decided to pursue a career in education.

After graduating college, she moved to San Diego and worked at a home school charter school as an education consultant.

“I never even knew anything about the home school community, and it was really interesting,” Wells said.

During that time, she learned a lot and was able to consult on curriculum for all grades, which helped her determine that she wanted to work with elementary students.

She moved back to Jacksonville in 2007 and got her first official teaching job at Jacksonville Heights Elementary as a third grade teacher. She stayed there for 12 years. In 2020, she moved to Ortega Elementary School and taught second grade.

“When school started, it was great,” Wells said. “I adored the school children.”

Then COVID hit and school went online, presenting numerous challenges not only as a teacher, but also as a mother of two small children.

“They ripped a screen out of a window while I was teaching and there was nothing I

could do about it,” Wells said.

Some of her students also struggled with working online. Some students she saw sporadically and some never made it to class all year.

“Everyone was trying to figure out how to navigate this, especially with younger kids,” she said.

Wells taught at Ortega for two years and then decided it was a time for a change. She started working full time at Oak Wells Aquatics, which designs and constructs pools and spas for residential and commercial properties. Her husband started the business 10 years ago after getting the opportunity to purchase an excavation company. He chose to expand the business and instead of just digging the holes for the pools, started constructing them as well.

“I’ve been there from the very first pool he built until now,” Wells said. “I always teased him and asked if he needed a secretary. And we were like, ‘No, we can’t work together.’”

But two years in, they’ve discovered they were wrong.

“He came home one day, and he knew I was frustrated and said, ‘I have a job for you, and you can work from home,’” Wells said. “I just realized this was best for me personally. I knew it was time for me to leave.”

Wells works on the sales and consulting side of the business. Once a customer decides on a design and signs a contract, the real fun begins.

“I design a pool to fit in their space,” she said.

Being able to design pools caters to her creative side and is something she thoroughly enjoys.

“I also get to meet really nice people,” she said. “I’m going into people’s houses and most are really welcoming.”

The company has seen a boom in the Riverside and Avondale areas.

“I’m kind of claiming it as my own,” Wells said. “I just love this side of town. Adding to the beauty of these homes just

makes me super happy.”

When she isn’t busy working, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her children, 8-year-old Grady and 6-year-old Anne Marie.

They moved to Ortega 10 years ago and love this side of town.

“We live on a great street with really great neighbors,” Wells said.

They also enjoy getting outdoors as a family, exploring the state parks.

“We like to expose the kids to outside,” Wells said. “We don’t want the kids sitting inside all day.”

This summer, they flew to Wyoming, rented an RV and spent nine days traveling and exploring places such as Yellowstone National Park.

“We saw grizzly bears, black bears, beavers,” Wells said. “And the kids got to see snow for the first time. We pulled over on the side of the road so they could play in the snow.”

They also attend Mardi Gras each year in New Orleans, which is home to Wells’ sister and offers her siblings and their families a chance to get together and attend the festivities.

“It’s super fun for us and we do it as a family,” she said.

Wells is also very involved at her children’s school. “I try to volunteer and jump in and do all the things,” she said.

She and her family are also big Jaguars and Seminole fans. She is also a part of a fantasy football league with her side of the family. She took home the top prize the first year she played.

“It’s fun and there’s a lot of cash,” she said.

Natalie Wells with her siblings, Stephen Jenkins, (left to right), Lenore McWey and Kathryn Jenkins

Natalie Wells with her husband, Ryan Wells

Natalie Wells hiking in Yellowstone with her kids, Grady Wells and Anne Marie Wells

Natalie Wells with Ryan Wells, Grady Wells and Anne Marie Wells at Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Halloween here at home

Spooky season is one of the best times of the year in our Resident Community, and I’m grateful for the friendly spirit it brings out in everyone around here.

We live on Granada Park south of San Marco Square, and it is known far and wide as one of the places to trick-or-treat on Halloween night. Our street, in particular, is a hotspot and is typically blocked off to through traffic to make way for the throngs of families and kids enjoying their festive evening stroll.

With few exceptions, most neighbors participate in the opportunity to share candy and goodies, and a good many decorate their doorways and front yards with fall and Halloween décor. Most people are “all in,” as they say, greeting trick-or-treaters at the door and sharing sweet fall cheer.

While there are some neighbors who give out “the good stuff” – big candy bars or cool snacks or Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups in non-miniature version – we stick to the cheap stuff. Every year, I buy pounds and pounds of Dumdums and Tootsie Rolls and Sweet Tarts and the like, and every year it is never even close to being enough to meet the demands of Halloween night. I honestly don’t know how the “good stuff” givers do it; they must have a Halloween candy savings account, because even the

cheap candy is outrageously expensive and heavy and always never enough. So, we do our best with bulk selections of Winn Dixie’s on-sale candy and dispense it until it is all gone.

We are not big seasonal decorators like others in the neighborhood, but we have been known to pull off some sick Halloween entertainment on occasion. One year, our son dressed all in black, including a black mask and boots and took his hunting tree climber up into the oak tree in our front yard. He’d hang there quietly, then convulse and scream bloody murder when an unsuspecting trick-or-treater walked under him. That was pretty good, and probably scarring for some. But it certainly wasn’t as traumatizing as the night my husband removed the chain from his chainsaw and hid himself in the hedges, waiting to pop out with his roaring saw at a trick-or-treater who looked like they could handle it. They probably don’t come to our neighborhood to get candy anymore on Halloween.

But it’s all in good fun! These days, we sit on the front porch and give out all the cheap stuff until we have a big sticky, empty bowl and close the door and turn off the porch lights by 8 p.m. That’s when it’s time to finish up the chili I make in the crockpot each Halloween and head to bed. We leave

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the fun Halloweening for the funner, moreinto-it, younger parents and Halloweeny folks. No one seems to mind or egg our house or scream under our bedroom window or anything. So that’s good.

I’m always amazed by and grateful for the folks who go big or go home when it comes to Halloween decorating. You see it all through San Marco, Riverside, Avondale and Ortega. For some of those homes, “go big or go home” means a big seasonal flowering plant array and check-ribboned wreath from Anita’s Garden Shop. There are a couple of houses, though, that really get into it. I think about the walled home on the S-curves with all the scary decorations and the other on Boone Park that take it to the limit each Halloween and Christmas. Are there still haunted houses? Do people do that anymore? Or are there houses that kids think are haunted and dare each other to approach? We had some of those growing up in San Antonio, but I guess there aren’t too many of those real haunted houses left now because those are real estate opportunities, not double-dog dares.

I know some churches still do Trunk or Treats in their parking lots in lieu of Halloween, and that’s nice for the right crowd – the crowd who wouldn’t appreciate some grown weirdo man coming at them

with a chainsaw. Also, the Halloween Doors & More event for the Community Hospice Foundation’s PedsCare is another popular Halloween alternative for folks in the neighborhood. Our daughter volunteered for this event during high school, and it was always very well done. I like the spirit of helping others with your Halloween spice. That’s a heck of a lot better than facilitating some Halloween road trip down to Orlando for that ridiculous Halloween Horror Nights. If you are the parent of a kid who enjoys that kind of thing, you know what I’m talking about. Gah, Orlando? When our sweet little neighborhoods have so much to offer during spooky season? When you could drive over to Granada and see my teenager suspended from a tree? I don’t get it. Of course, I had one who loved HHN and another who did not. Isn’t that how it always is with kids? Oh well, you do you but that’s a whole lot of driving and ticket-paying and avoidable shenanigans, in my opinion.

So, getting back to our Resident Community, things are simpler and more spirited here. Who needs to go anywhere when you can celebrate in style right here in the ’hood? Forget HHN, you can just send your kids to school and scratch the itch. All the schools in our neighborhoods usually let some dress code slide a little and allow students to wear something festive or costume-like on or before Halloween. I’m sure there are rules about nothing violent, dangerous, too scary or too revealing, but what a great opportunity to let kids be creative. And don’t forget the local stores and restaurants – most of them have nonspooky seasonal sales and specials and some of the employees even dress for the occasion. Our neighborhoods are long on treats during Halloween.

Whether you’re celebrating the season with a new wreath from Anita’s or a juiced-up, chainless piece of landscaping equipment, let’s get our boo on and be grateful for our neighborhood spirit!

ANIMAL HOUSE

Hawk rescue reveals critical rescuer shortage

By Julie Kerns Garmendia

The bird, later identified as a red-shouldered hawk, lay motionless on its side, loosely cushioned by a soft cloth lining the bottom of a cardboard box. The terrified bird held its head up just enough to stare straight at the two adults and little girl watching over it, speaking in whispered worried voices. The bird’s eyes glittered with sharp fear, and large claws with razor-tipped talons stayed tightly curled. The fact that it only seemed able to move its head was not a good sign.

“Daddy, will the bird be ok?” Brielle Thompson, 5, anxiously asked her father, Brian Thompson.

“Oh yes, honey, it will be fine,” he replied. “This lady is going to take it to get help.”

It was Mother’s Day weekend, and the Thompson family was inside that Saturday when they heard the distinct, loud sound of something hitting the side of their home fast and hard. Rushing out onto their second-story porch, the family saw a bird lying on the ground below a large window, desperately trying to move its wings and fly but unable to lift. Its head feathers were light brown, with a reddish-cream body and a black tail with narrow white bands.

“I grabbed gloves, a towel and a box to get it off the ground… found a stick for it to bite onto, which it did,” Thompson said. “Then I lifted it up and gently down onto the towel in the box. It did not try to bite or claw me, as if it knew I was only trying to help.”

Thompson called his sister, Mimi Saunders, who immediately posted a message on the neighborhood website Nextdoor. In the message, she described what happened and said her brother had found an injured hawk that was unable to fly. She asked for help from anyone online who might see her message during that holiday weekend.

“People suggested places to call, but the local wildlife rescue organizations we contacted were already full of orphaned baby birds, injured birds or said that they could not accept raptors (all birds of prey),” Saunders said. “We had no idea what to do but knew the hawk was badly hurt and needed a veterinarian.”

Here it was in black and white: what wildlife rescuers and rehabilitators already knew but the public may not fully understand. Many more trained, licensed rescuers and rehabilitators are needed for local injured, ill and orphaned wild birds and raptors.

Currently, Northeast Florida has only one wildlife rescue that can legally care for wild birds and raptors: The Ark Wildlife Rescue in St. Augustine. If The Ark is full, its founder and permitted rehabilitator, Karen Lynch, said that local wildlife rescues could only offer advice, temporarily stabilize birds or help with transport to other licensed bird rehabilitation organizations. Unfortunately, those other bird and raptor rescues are located at least two hours from Jacksonville, according to Lisa Rowell of the Wildlife Rescue Coalition of Northeast Florida (W.R.C.N.E.F.). See the Resources section at the end of this article for the nearest Florida licensed wild bird and raptor rehabilitation facilities.

Until recently, Northeast Florida did have two longtime, nationally recognized wildlife and bird expert rehabilitators whose nonprofit organizations saved the lives of countless birds and raptors of all species over at least four decades: BEAKS (Bird Emergency Aid & Kare Sanctuary ) founded by Cindy Mosling Liliskus and her husband Andy; and HAWKE (Humane Association of Wildlife Care & Education), founded by Melanie Cain Stage with her husband Sam. The loss of these two rescues has left a deadly void with no safety net for native and migratory birds and raptors that need expert rescue, specialized care or rehabilitation for eventual release back to the wild.

BEAKS and HAWKE gradually stopped accepting birds due to obstacles they could not overcome: the founders’ inevitable need to retire, exhaustion after decades of rescue work, their own or family members’ health issues, inability to find or train replacement wildlife rehabilitators, insufficient volunteer help; and inadequate donations to pay for ever-increasing food, supplies and medical care. Wildlife, bird and raptor

rehabilitators pay for their training, licensure and continuing education expenses, including animal care for rescued wildlife. They receive no local government, state or federal funding. The nonprofit rescue organizations must rely on personal funds, public donations and volunteers to continue their lifesaving efforts for birds and wildlife.

Other notable facts that distinguish those two major rescue groups were that both women founders held all federal and state licenses to care for every species of wild birds and raptors – credentials that are difficult to obtain. Federal and state laws protect more than 800 species of native and migratory birds, including raptors, making it illegal to kill, injure, harm or harass, capture or possess, sell, trade or transport protected birds, nestlings, eggs, feathers and nests. Laws also regulate the rescue, treatment, rehabilitation, release or permanent sanctuary provided to wild mammals, reptiles, birds and raptors. Endangered species have additional protections. All wildlife violations are punishable by hefty fines that can include jail time.

Citizens may rescue a bird or raptor but must transport it to a permitted facility or private wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. The quicker birds receive proper care or rehabilitation, the better their chances for survival and successful release back to freedom.

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issues two types of permits for rescuers: transporters, who may hold wildlife up to 24 hours before delivery to an appropriately licensed wildlife rehabilitator; or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator permit. Individuals caring for birds must hold current state and federal permits or face the closure of their facilities, extensive fines and prosecution, including permanent loss of licensure.

FWC oversees the licensure program for anyone interested in becoming a permitted wildlife rehabilitator. Northeast Florida desperately needs new rehabilitators to complete the required training and licensure. Information and applications to become a Florida licensed wildlife rehabilitator can be found by creating an online account at www.GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. Those who are already licensed rehabilitators are critically needed to volunteer at local rescue organizations inundated with bird and raptor emergency calls, rescue and transport requests.

Brian and Brielle Thompson found the injured hawk.

Karen Lynch of The Ark Wildlife Rescue holds a juvenile Osprey.

What to do if you find an ill or injured raptor

Raptors’ sharp beaks and talons are extremely dangerous, even if they are ill, injured or young, orphaned birds. Use caution and wear thick, protective gloves before handling any raptor. Note the location where the bird was found for rehabilitators, who may release the rehabilitated bird back to its home site. Check trees for adult birds or a nest and return nestlings to the nest if possible. Make every attempt to reunite nestling baby birds with parents to optimize their chances of survival.

Protect downed raptors from predators, including domestic dogs and cats, which will quickly see, hear or smell the bird. Poke air holes into all sides of a box slightly larger than the bird. Place the box over the bird and slide something flat and rigid underneath to contain it safely. Or throw a towel over the bird, avoiding beak and talons, and gently but quickly place it into the box. Give no food or water to the bird, but keep it in a quiet, dark, warm space, according to Audubon Florida recommendations. Keep children and pets safely away from the bird. Transport the raptor to a permitted rehabilitator as soon as possible.

Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission 24-hour Emergency Hotline: (888) 404-3922 www.myfwc.com Florida’s raptors: cbop.audubon.org/about/florida-raptors The Ark Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation needs volunteer transporters, cleaning and construction help (new caging), financial donations and supplies from its website Wish List. www.thearkrescue.org | (678) 523-3754

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey (407) 644-0190 | 1101 Audubon Way, Maitland, FL 32751 www.cbop.audubon.org

Avian Reconditioning Center – raptors only (407) 461-1056 | 323 Lester Rd., Apopka, FL 32712 arc4raptors.org

Marine Science Center Bird Hospital – all species Call ahead for advice and drop-off instructions daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (386) 304-5530 | 100 Lighthouse Dr., Ponce Inlet, FL 32137 www.marinesciencecenter.com

The University of Florida Small Animal Hospital Accepts all species daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (352) 392-2235 | 2089 S.W. 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608

ACPS Adoptable Pets

The following animals are available for adoption from Animal Care and Protective Services. Located at 202 Forest St., the ACPS adoption center is open noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.

Palm - ID #A1441912. Neutered, mixed-breed male, 3, 55 pounds, who acts like a puppy, loves attention, walks well on leash and knows his “sit.” Palm is heartworm positive, and treatment would be provided free to any foster.

Guinevere – ID # A1415533. Spayed, mixed-breed female, 6, 53 pounds of sweet sophistication. Gentle nap buddy who loves to be petted and receive ear scratches. Heartworm negative.

Palm and Guinevere can be seen in person to foster or adopt at the shelter, or on the website by choosing “adoptable pets” at www.jacksonville.gov/departments/ neighborhoods/animal-care-protective-services

Guinevere Palm

Injured red-shouldered hawk

Clay County Master Plumbing spans 4 generations of plumbing experience

For James Pelky, plumbing isn’t just an occupation. It’s a family tradition –one that goes back generations to his father and grandfather.

“Our roots and love for the industry run deep,” said Pelky, owner of Clay County Master Plumbing.

It was back in 1955, he said, that his father took over his great-uncle’s plumbing and heating business in Detroit. Pelky’s grandfather also joined the firm, and by the age of 10, he was tagging along on service calls.

“Somewhere along the way, I fell in love with the trade,” he said.

By age 21, Pelky was a licensed plumber, working with the family business before venturing out with his own firm. When he and his wife, Laurie, moved to Florida in 1999, Pelky established Clay County Master Plumbing. Since then, the company has expanded to cover Clay, Duval and St. Johns counties, with two dozen employees and five divisions: residential and commercial plumbing services; cast iron restoration, epoxy

coating and pipe lining; full septic tank and drain field repair/replacement; commercial new construction; and specialty hydro jetting, camera lines, leak detection, drain cleaning, sewer smell and smoke testing.

“I have never found a plumbing problem I could not solve,” he said. “We are honored that people put their trust in us to solve their plumbing problems and we do not quit.”

Today, as a third-generation plumber, Pelky has two sons who are also successful in the trade. And with 10 grandchildren,

he holds out hope that there may be future generations of Pelky plumbers to come.

“I believe my family could be looking at five or more generations of plumbers,” he said. Pelky is also passionate about motivating and teaching others the plumbing trade.

“As the years pass, I’m noticing fewer master plumber license holders and I would love to make a difference by increasing that number,” Pelky said, “not just for the employee who wants to build a successful career, but also to serve the customer and the community.”

• No excavation required / minimal downtime

• Uses a resin-saturated liner to reduce environmental impact

• Saves money by avoiding the need for traditional pipe replacement

• Cures in place with heat or UV light for long-lasting results

• Works on corroded, leaking, or root-damaged pipes

A commercial water heater installation

outdoor shower plumbed by request Residential hybrid

Who’s Reading Your Mammogram?

Boutique

Breast Imaging provides a better mammogram because they’re read by

Kathryn Pearson, M.D. is a trailblazer in health care and one of the country’s most respected breasttrained radiologists. Having been personally impacted by breast cancer through a deep-rooted family history and the need for surgery herself, Dr. Pearson continues to advocate for better patient care. Trained at Stanford and University of California San Francisco, and practiced in breast imaging for over 25 years, Dr. Pearson is saving lives and minimizing unnecessary anxiety one breast image at a time at her breast imaging center in Jacksonville’s Southside: Boutique Breast Imaging, a state-of-the-art clinic providing the highest level of breast care, screening and diagnosis by experienced, fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologists. “Patients receive a better mammogram when read by breast experts, and unfortunately that’s not always the case - more than 60% of mammograms are interpreted by general radiologists,” said Dr. Pearson. Breast imaging radiologists have additional breast fellowship training and expertise beyond radiology board certification and are experts in breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Dedicated breast imagers are proven to have increased diagnostic accuracy with earlier detection of breast cancer and less false positive “breast cancer scares.” “If you want an expert in breast cancer diagnosis, you see a breast imaging radiologist,” said Dr. Pearson. Boutique Breast Imaging patients are thankful for the center’s unique and necessary approach to having only breast

breast experts

fellowship-trained radiologists reading mammograms to improve patient outcomes and experiences.

The reality is you can get a mammogram almost anywhere. A better mammogram is when it’s read by breast experts. Boutique Breast Imaging is an imaging center that provides accessible

Imaging, the level of compassion and care is unparalleled. “When I look at a mammogram, I see more than just breast tissue. These are images of women who often have children, grandchildren, family and friends who depend on them. I want to do everything I can to provide the best health care possible for women,

This place is absolutely wonderful! Everyone is so kind and welcoming. They got me in within an hour of leaving my doctor’s office due to a lump I was concerned about. Dr. Pearson is knowledgeable, kind and just awesome! The team understands the anxiety and fear that come with these types of appointments, and they make you feel supported throughout the whole appointment. Dr. Pearson goes over the images and explains everything, and you leave with a report the same day. I can’t recommend this place enough! - Kirsten

Dr. Pearson is literally the most amazing doctor I’ve ever been to let alone radiologist. She knows her stuff so much and truly cares and takes time to walk you through all the images herself. Ladies, I highly recommend doing all your mammos and imaging at BBI! - Stephanie

Best mammogram experience EVER! - Andrea

I can’t begin to thank (BBI) enough for stepping in when it seemed like the entire health care system was falling down on me. Not only did BBI step in to get me clarity when I needed it most, they did it so quickly and very patiently. One thousand thanks will never be enough for BBI. - Amanda

and superior patient care by expert breast radiologists. Just like you wouldn’t want a breast radiologist reading an image of your knee, why would you allow just any radiologist to read an image of your breasts? At Boutique Breast

and it starts by having the right people read your mammogram,” Dr. Pearson said. Schedule your appointment today and follow us on social media to learn more about our Breast Cancer Awareness events during October.

Boutique Breast Imaging is located at 6871 Belfort Oaks Pl., Jacksonville, Florida, 32216, accepting most insurances and providing concierge services.

Visit BoutiqueBreastImaging.com or call (904) 901-0110 to schedule your appointment today.

RAP is the lead advocate for Riverside Avondale’s historic neighborhoods, vibrant local commercial districts, public spaces, and welcoming community.

RIVERSIDEAVONDALE.ORG

MUSIC TOUR , OCTOBER 12,

1–6PM

RAP Home Tour meets stories of music made here in Riverside and Avondale

Tickets $20 (purchase in advance) | Free concert in Willowbranch Park, open to the public

“Riverside was Jacksonville’s answer to Greenwich Village: rents were low and people were open-minded. Some of the old houses were carved up into tenements or had garage apartments that attracted hipster types. You didn’t need a car—you could walk, ride a bike, or catch a bus almost anywhere you needed to go. Cheap housing, good vibes, and abundant gigs brought musicians and music fans from all over Florida and South Georgia.” Michael Ray FitzGerald, author of “Jacksonville and the Roots of Southern Rock”. Michael is a featured speaker, with books available for sale during the RAP Music Tour on October 12.

“Learn more about the meaningful and lasting impact of Riverside Avondale Preservation over the last 50 years all year long...“

Make a contribution!

Kathryn Pearson, M.D

Dr. Joseph Stokes Bringing light to people’s lives

By Jennifer Jensen

Dr. Joseph Stokes’ first word wasn’t the traditional “mama” or “dada.” Instead it was “light.”

When he was born in 1932, his family didn’t have electricity, but in his small town of Bronson, Florida, they had streetlights. His parents would walk the streets with him in his stroller by the light of the streetlamps. Stokes believes this moment was a premonition to what his life would entail.

“That was the harbinger of my life,” Dr. Stokes said. “To be a light in people’s lives.”

For Stokes, this came in two forms: through his spiritualty and leading people to their faith; and his career as a urologist for more than 30 years.

His desire to go into medicine started when he was 8 years old and discovered an old barn that had racks of patented medicines. He liked to explore the different medicines and it sparked his interest.

As a doctor, Stokes said he tried to shine a light on the issue, show his patients what was really wrong with them. He also endeavored to be compassionate and give them all the options.

“I felt like I needed to shed some light on what’s wrong with them,” he said. “I always tried to take time to explain to people and give them all the options.”

He graduated from Wake Forest College then attended the Bowman Gray School of Medicine. After graduating, he interned at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.

During that time, his supervisor asked if he could volunteer as a medic for the elementary school safety patrol field trip to Washington, D.C. That was when he met his future wife, Daythel Rogers, who was a nurse on the trip.

“And the rest is history,” he quipped.

Stokes was drafted as a medic and served in the Navy at Okinawa, Japan, for one year.

“So, we dated by mail,” he added.

After serving in Japan, he went back to Atlanta where Daythel was a teacher in nursing school. He moved to Pensacola in 1960 to work at the Navy Hospital.

The couple married in 1961 and moved to Jacksonville, originally living in Avondale, so Stokes could work as a resident at Duval Medical Center. He then worked for the Mclver Urological Clinic for more than 30 years.

The two were married for 55 years until Daythel’s passing in 2016. The couple has two children: Joseph Stokes III and David Roger Stokes, and two grandchildren.

Healing the soul

Aside from working as a clinical associate professor for five years, Stokes uses his teaching skills – or spiritual gifts, as he says – to teach a bible study group at Windsor Assisted Living.

“Jesus came into my life when I was 13 years old and

I guess the Lord has been sort of the foundation of my life since that time,” he added.

While in medical school, Stokes learned about psychosomatic medicine, which explores the relationships among social, psychological and behavioral factors on bodily processes and quality of life. He then read a book that addressed the spirit and the soul of the body, and he tries to incorporate that into his life and his teachings.

“We are spirit, soul and body,” he said. “We are threepart people. When you ask the Lord into your life, the holy spirit comes in and you get the third part.”

He has brought this teaching to several different groups in which he is involved.

“I felt like I needed to shine light into people’s lives on that,” he said.

He’s also been involved in more than 20 nonprofits since moving to Jacksonville, including the board at St.Vincent’s, Regent University and the Duval County Medical Society. On the spiritual side, he co-founded the Christian Coalition of North Florida, was chairman of the board of Avondale Methodist Church, and served as an advisor for Abundant Life Outreach Ministries.

Stokes was also involved with board for City Rescue Mission for 18 years as well as Rotary Club and the Boy Scouts.

An area where he has been able to combine his passion for faith and medicine was on 10 mission trips in which he has participated over the years. Six of those were medical missions. He has been to Guatemala, Romania, Ecuador and the Philippines.

One of his favorite trips was in 1975 to Palawan, Philippines, where he spent more than a month.

“I saw four miracles happen on that trip that changed my life,” he said.

Stokes has slowed down a bit since that time but keeps busy. Aside from his bible study, he also reads at least two books a week, attends bingo and enjoys other activities, such as gardening. He has been gardening for more than 60 years and at his current residence, he has a small garden in the courtyard. He had two tomato plants that grew 60 tomatoes.

“I keep it neat, and I like doing it,” he said.

Do you know an interesting senior with a story to tell?

Nominate them to be featured in The Way We Were! Submit their names, contact information and a brief description of what makes them a good candidate to editor@residentnews.net

Dr. Joseph Stokes enjoys gardening and tending to his tomato plants.

Dr. Joseph Stokes and Daythel Rogers married on March 4, 1961.

Dr. Joseph Stokes and Daythel Stokes on their wedding anniversary

Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida

Couple’s love of the arts inspires estate planning

By Jennifer Logue

When Eli and Martha Bekkum first met in 1974 volunteering on shows at Players By The Sea, they never envisioned being in a position one day to become patrons of the arts.

“Nobody ‘cultivated’ me – I was a school teacher, I didn’t have funds,” Martha Bekkum told attendees at the Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida’s Sept. 12 member luncheon at Fogo de Chao. “But because we contributed to our 401ks every month, after 38 years, it adds up.”

After decades of faithfully saving for retirement, the Bekkums found themselves in a position to start supporting the local arts organizations that brought them so much joy over the years. As part of their estate planning, the couple has established an endowed fund through the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida that will benefit the performing arts as well as other nonprofits close to their hearts. What’s more, they have also started giving to organizations and nonprofits now instead of waiting for their estate to begin contributing.

“We just thought, ‘we don’t want to do something for an individual,” Martha said. “We want to do something for the greater good.”

A love for giving

Lifelong community volunteers, the Bekkums can still be found lending a hand at local community theater productions. They first became involved in philanthropic giving, however, through Eli’s job with Boeing at Cecil Field.

“My job was to deal with community relations, and I found money within Boeing that was available (for philanthropic giving),” Eli said.

He soon began securing donations from Boeing to local schools and nonprofits. “That’s how we met some of the people we were donating to – there’s some wonderful people out there and good organizations.”

When the couple, who have no children, retired, they began thinking about estate planning and philanthropic giving. Inspired by articles they had read about local philanthropists Wayne and Delores Weaver, the Bekkums contacted the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.

“I thought, ‘My goodness, if the Weavers trust (the Community Foundation) with their amount of money, we can certainly trust them with ours,’” Martha said.

Working with the foundation, the Bekkums created a customized estate plan that will fund in perpetuity causes close to their heart.

“We’ve got it set up where upon our deaths, our funds will fund performing arts to Northeast Florida,” Martha said. “That’s what we've been connected to our entire lives.”

John Zell, vice president for development for The Community Foundation, said that when donors like the Bekkums take the time to participate in estate planning, they can rest easy knowing that future stewards will respect their wishes.

“Twenty or 30 years from now, whoever is sitting in my chair will be able to pull your file and say, ‘What did they really mean? And they’re going to read your story and know.”

Tonnie Alliance, director of philanthropy at Westminster Communities of Florida, agreed. Alliance recounted helping a donor prepare an estate plan for 30 years in the future.

“I sat down with a donor and we went over word for word what he wanted,” she said. “At the end of our conversation, when he signed to finalize the documentation, he said to me, ‘Now, my wishes are concluded.’”

ElderSource TCARE program helps prevent caregiver burnout

Chrysandra Reynolds

When Chrysandra Reynolds’ father died, the grieving Jacksonville resident was suddenly thrust into the role of caregiver for her dementia-afflicted mother – with no idea where to start.

“I had absolutely no experience as a caregiver when I started taking care of my mom,” Reynolds said. “It was a very, very difficult learning process for me.”

That’s when she discovered ElderSource’s Helpline, which connected her with various community resources that could support her with her caregiver duties. In addition, the Helpline pointed her toward a partner agency that had trained caregiving professionals who could supply respite care when needed.

Reynolds also signed up for ElderSource’s Tailored Caregiver Assessment Referral Program (TCARE). The free program allowed her to work closely with a specialist to create a care plan tailored to her specific sources of stress and individual strengths. By identifying the root causes of her burnout, the TCARE specialist developed strategies to improve Reynolds’ overall caregiving effectiveness. After the first two meetings, the specialist followed up with Reynolds every three months to monitor her progress and offer ongoing support.

Reynolds was one of 80 local caregivers who received burnout prevention support through ElderSource in 2023. This program proved to be a lifeline, providing Reynolds with essential tools to continue her caregiving journey with renewed strength and resilience.

“We are currently accepting new participants into the TCARE program,” said ElderSource CEO Linda Levin. “We are eager to offer this free resource to more caregivers who, like Reynolds, could benefit from tools and support that help them better manage their responsibilities and avoid burnout.”

Today, Reynolds proudly considers herself a seasoned caregiver, having cared for her mother for the past eight years. But she vividly remembers the time when it all felt too overwhelming, when the weight of responsibility nearly broke her – and the relief she found in ElderSource.

“It took me a long time to get the message: take care of yourself. You got to do something to take care of yourself,” she said. “If there was no ElderSource, none of that would have happened.”

Eli and Martha Bekkum share their estate planning journey with John Zell of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida at the Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida’s September luncheon.

‘Every man’s architect’ JAA Architecture offers capability, versatility

John Allmand recalls accepting a small architectural job for a local resort. So small, in fact, that most architectural firms would have turned it down.

“It was just putting a small addition on the back of the hotel’s cart barn,” said Allmand, the founder and principal architect of JAA Architecture.

While working on that project, however, Allmand received a call from the client. The

“My grandmother was a world-famous calligrapher who lived in a small farmhouse in South Miami,” he said. “She taught me to draw in one-point and two-point perspective. That began my fascination with design.”

But home computers were becoming popular then, and Allmand began focusing more on computers than design as a possible career option. He entered the University of Florida as a computer engineering major – but

180 miles per hour.”

While the practice was licensed in 2005, Allmand continued to work for several years for other architectural firms, using his own firm to handle side work. Then in 2008, the financial crash had a tremendous impact on the architecture industry. Allmand was laid off.

“Thankfully, I had my own firm waiting there: ‘Just add water,’” he quipped. “It was

Jacksonville has a project there and wants us to work on it.”

That sort of responsiveness and flexibility has won the firm both commercial and residential projects of all sizes. Allmand said he enjoys the unique challenges of both.

“I’d say that commercial is the mind, while residential is the heart,” he said. “Residential offers an opportunity to develop real, deep, meaningful relationships with

resort was about to be sold, and during the fire marshal’s inspection it was discovered the hotel lacked a life safety plan. The sale was in jeopardy.

Could he help?

Allmand put his entire team on the project, producing the required comprehensive report in record time. The resort sale went through, and shortly thereafter, the new owners hired JAA to renovate the entire hotel – a major assignment that lasted over a year.

“That project transformed how our firm understood what we were capable of,” Allmand said. “It revolutionized our practice.”

soon found himself searching for something more fulfilling. After leaving an evening calculus exam certain he had failed, Allmand looked across the street and saw the school of architecture, its windows illuminated and students studying inside.

“In that one moment, the entirety of that experience with my grandmother teaching me to draw and think spatially came rushing back,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘I want to be an architect. That wouldn’t even be work, that would be fun.’ It was the closest thing to an epiphany I ever had.”

The next day, he changed his major. To catch up with the course work, Allmand took a

the perfect time for me to build my firm because the only place to go was up.”

He vividly recalls his first job as a professional architect for a local dentist’s practice.

“I did a floor plan and a rendering for them, and they cut me a check on the spot,” he said. “I was a very young architect, and that money changed my life.”

But the significance of that assignment went far beyond money, he stressed.

“For the first time, I truly felt the pride of having someone else recognize the beauty in my design, and that validation was incredibly meaningful,” he said. “It was a transformative,

clients. Commercial is more business-focused – it can be beautiful, but it’s more fast-paced and all about getting it done.

“A lot of firms specialize – they only do commercial projects, or just residential, or they reject projects for being too small or too big,” he continued. “We’re not that smart. We haven’t learned to say no yet.”

That commitment to being “fantastically versatile,” Allmand said, keeps the work interesting.

“I kind of see us as ‘every man’s architect,’” he said. “We’ll help somebody who’s put a sunroom on the back of their house without a permit and now needs an

John Allmand (bottom center) and the JAA team in front of their office, a historic building in Riverside designed by Henry J. Klutho.

CPhilip

Born Sept. 25, 1947. Capt. Voss was the son of Danish immigrant Axel Voss and Delphine Voss of Natchez, Mississippi. As a youth, he was very active in scouting and attained the rank of Eagle at age 14.

Forever in Our Hearts

Capt. Philip Voss

September 25, 1947 – August 4, 2024

Captain of his high school football team, he graduated from Cathedral High School in Natchez in 1965 and from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.

Upon graduation from college, he attended Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Fla., where he was commissioned an ensign and later was awarded his Navy wings. During a long and distinguished Navy career with many tours in Jacksonville, he served in seven carrier squadrons, logged 6,000 flight hours and made 750 carrier landings on 10 different aircraft carriers. He commanded two carrier squadrons: VS-30 on the Saratoga and VS-27 at Cecil Field.

During his naval career, he earned a Master of Arts degree in National Security Affairs from the U.S. Naval War College and served as a “CNO Fellow” on the Navy’s Strategic Policy Analysis Group. During his last three years in the Navy, Capt. Voss served as the commodore of Sea Control Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, which was responsible for all Atlantic Fleet S-3 Sea Control squadrons. He retired as a Navy captain in 1995 after 31 years of naval service.

After retiring from the Navy, he established a defense consulting company in Jacksonville, Aviation Connections, which merged with Logistics Services International (LSI) in 1998. At LSI, he served as the vice president of marketing, corporate vice president, chief corporate development officer and chief marketing officer. He also served on the board of directors, where

Cheryl “Cheri” Smallenberger O’Neill, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, in Jacksonville. Born on June 20, 1946, in Springfield, Ohio, Cheri lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and joy.

As a passionate and dedicated professional, Cheri’s career included roles as an LPN, staff member for Mayor Jake Godbold, deputy press aide under Tommy Hazouri’s administration and executive vice president of the Gator Bowl Association for 25 years. Her commitment to public service and community made a significant impact.

As a woman in sports, she paved the way for others. When she went to Tallahassee to invite FSU to the Gator Bowl for Bobby Bowden’s last game. When they arrived, she was told by FSU coaching staff that no woman had ever been in Coach Bowden’s tower before. She was well respected in her profession and beloved by all the press with whom she interacted.

Cheri’s compassion extended beyond her professional

he was instrumental in converting LSI to employee ownership in 2006.

Capt. Voss was a devout Roman Catholic and longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where he served on the school board and as the chairman of the Building and Finance Committee. He was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and was very active in the Jacksonville community, serving as president of the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville. He served as one of the first chairmen of the West Jacksonville Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC). His service for the Boy Scouts of America included executive board vice president for endowments for the North Florida Council, which awarded him the Silver Buffalo award. He received the “Distinguished Eagle Scout” award from the National Eagle Scout Association.

Capt. Voss was preceded in death by his parents; two older brothers, Frederick Voss and Robert Voss; and his younger sister, Elizabeth Voss.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nancy Glenz Voss; five children, Suzanne Voss Lucy Dane Bravo (Phil) of Jacksonville, Commander Matthew Voss, USN, Kathryn Voss Kukla (Steven) of Coronado, Calif., and Erik Voss (Kelley) of Los Angeles, Calif.; six grandsons and four granddaughters; his sister, Delphine Voss Prestridge; and two brothers, Carl Voss (Glenda) of Natchez, Miss., and William Voss (Jean) of McComb, Miss.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

capacity; she was involved in two medical missions in Honduras and would have continued if not for COVID.

Outside of her professional and charitable achievements, Cheri was known for her vibrant personality and love for life. She enjoyed playing tennis, writing, reading, traveling and boating. Her greatest joy, however, came from spending time with her family and creating cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Cheri is survived by her devoted husband, Robert W. O’Neill; her loving daughters, Staci Gullman (Ted, predeceased) and Cynthia Miller (Brad); and her cherished grandchildren, Meghan Fauss (Kyle), Courtney Gullman, Kelsey Thayer (Ryan), Joshua Miller (Nicole) and Hannah Johnson (Alex). She is also survived by her greatgrandchildren, Jackson, Cameron, Sammie, Teddy and Sophia and her two cats, CeeJay and Miss Kate. Cheri was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Gladys Heinzen; her siblings, Stephen and Richard Heinzen; and her son-in-law, Ted Gullman IV.

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Voss, 76, a retired naval officer, defense contractor and longtime resident of Jacksonville, died peacefully Aug. 4, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.

June 20, 1946 – August 30, 2024

Cheri O’Neill