San Marco: Resident December 2025

A Day for Difference Makers

National Philanthropy Day brought Jacksonville’s philanthropic leaders together Nov. 21 as AFP Florida, First Coast recognized this year’s honorees for their generosity and vision.

Big Changes Ahead for the Riverfront

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary of Jacksonville launched its Red Kettle Campaign with song and celebration at the 2025 Red Kettle Kickoff in Balis Park on Friday, Nov 21. The morning included candy canes for Aspire Church San Marco preschoolers, performances by the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts’ vocal department and storytime by celebrity bellringer Tenikka Hughes. The time-honored Red Kettle Campaign will run until Christmas Eve.

Ringing Begin

From Vacant Stretch to Vibrant Space

RiversEdge Park makes its splash

By Fabrizio Gowdy

A pleasant riverfront breeze and mild temperatures provided perfect weather as RiversEdge Park officially opened with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 24. Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan delivered remarks, joined by elected officials and representatives of the Downtown Investment Authority and JaxParks.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

Publishers' Note

Making Spirits Bright, One Story at a Time

A Note from The Resident Staff

It’s that wonderful time of year again. Luminaria night, twinkling lights, wagging tails, kids on bikes and “sweata weatha” (finally!). We get to see it all! The porch parties, the galas, fun runs, school events, grand openings and those spontaneous moments that make these historic districts such special places. We’ve probably snapped a photo of your kids, your dog, your house – or maybe even you dressed to the nines at a charity gala! And we love every minute of it.

As you celebrate, don’t forget to shop and dine local: Those neighborhood spots keep our streets vibrant and this newspaper landing right in your mailbox.

Cheers to a joyful, cozy, and very local holiday season!

Letters

TO THE EDITOR

The views and opinions expressed in the Letters to the Editor belong solely to the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of this publication or its editorial team.

I love your paper and have written to you before to compliment you. You provide more local news than any other source. Your coverage of local real estate development is thorough and well-researched. Each issue is informative, enriching, and fun to read. Many thanks to you and your writers.

– John Ragsdale

Your newspaper is outstanding. I am always amazed at how your team produces such a strong edition every month. I see your employees and Seth all over the community, capturing the moments that matter, and the volume and quality of the photos you publish is impressive. I read The Resident cover to cover every month and I look at all the advertisements to see what is going on, what is new and where to go to shop. You truly are the best newspaper in this city.

– Tony Thompkins Sr.

Deegan Joins 230 Mayors in Signing Declaration Against Political Violence

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, along with 230 bipartisan mayors across 41 states, signed a declaration rejecting political violence and dehumanizing rhetoric.

The declaration, named the Oklahoma City Declaration, was presented at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum – the site of the deadliest instance of domestic political violence in the nation’s living memory – during the annual fall meeting for the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

The U.S. Conference of Mayors announced the signing of the declaration on Monday, Oct. 28. The document includes a list of 10 tenets shared by the signatories, including the belief “that political violence in any form is unacceptable and should be met with the harshest condemnation and penalties.”

“This declaration from America’s mayors comes at a pivotal time in our nation’s history,” said U.S. Conference of Mayors President and Mayor of Oklahoma City David Holt in an Oct. 28 press release. “If everyone in American political life affirmed their commitment to the principles found in this Declaration, we would see a dramatic shift in this country overnight. Mayors are best positioned to set the example, and with this Declaration, I hope we inspire others in positions of responsibility to consider making similar public commitments.”

Deegan shared a comment in a Nov. 6 press release about the declaration.

“At some point, we have to start seeing each other’s humanity,” Deegan said. “I know these are difficult times, but even in our passionate disagreements, we won’t find our way back with hate for each other. Let’s choose love over fear. It has never been more important than it is now.”

Divided DCPS Board Approves HQ Sale, Relocation

By Fabrizio Gowdy

In a stark reversal of its unanimous vote against relocation a month earlier, the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Board has voted 4-3 to sell the district’s current headquarters on the Southbank and relocate to Baymeadows.

In two separate votes at its Nov. 4 meeting, the board voted to sell the administrative headquarters property at 1701 Prudential Drive and purchase a new facility at 8928 Prominence Parkway in Baymeadows. For both votes, DCPS Board Chair Charlotte Joyce, Vice Chair April Carney, and Board Members Melody Bolduc and Reginald Blount voted in favor, while Board Members Cindy Pearson, Darryl Willie, and Anthony Ricardo voted against.

Under the approved contract, there is a 455-day closing period on the Prudential property with a possible six-month extension.

“This move allows us to give more back to our schools without taking anything away from students,” said DCPS Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “By relocating only our administrative offices, we’re reducing overhead costs and generating revenue that will be reinvested directly into the capital

construct a mixed-use development featuring residential units – apartments and condos –plus 200,000 square feet of commercial and retail space.

Chase Properties Owner and CEO Mike Balanky says the development on the school board property will be “synergistic” with the nearby 53-unit TrailView Townhomes – also being developed by Chase Properties – and the RiversEdge developments. He hopes to break ground in the next year and complete the project within three years.

“This is the last best piece of property on the river in our city, and it’s exciting to see it all finally coming together,” said Balanky.

During public comment, District 5 City Councilman Joe Carlucci expressed his support for the sale to Chase Properties, although he specified that he was not present to speak on the purchase of the new building.

“This will continue to amplify the progress we’ve already made Downtown, and it coincides with plans we have for the future,” said Carlucci, who called the move a “generational opportunity for Jacksonville.”

This is the last best piece of property on the river in our city, and it’s exciting to see it all finally coming together.

–

Mike Balanky, Owner & CEO, Chase Properties

budget to support classrooms, educators and student resources.”

The buyer is Jacksonville-based Chase Properties, which will purchase the 4.87-acre Prudential Drive property for $17.2 million. That’s $2.8 million less than developer Fleet Landing’s offer, which the board rejected unanimously in October. Chase Properties plans to demolish the DCPS building and

At their October meeting, board members raised concerns about Fleet Landing’s plan for a retirement community on prime Downtown riverfront property and the deal’s structure, which deferred $7.5 million in payments for up to three years without interest. By contrast, the approved sale to Chase Properties requires full payment of $17.2 million at closing.

While Pearson, who represents the Southbank, said the new deal was an

improvement, it did not yet address all of her concerns. She cited the Prominence Parkway property’s decentralized location, high cost and $42,000 annual property owners’ association fee as reasons for her opposition to the sale.

“I do believe there is a better option for the Duval County School Board admin building, we just haven’t found it yet, but I do believe it is out there,” Pearson said.

Board member Reginald Blount said he did not “feel 100% comfortable” with the purchase of Prominence Parkway, but ultimately voted in favor of both the sale and the purchase. In remarks to Resident News,

he explained that he changed his vote from a month earlier because the financial structure of the Chase Properties deal was superior to that of the Fleet Landing deal.

“They’ve been dealing with this for years and years, and I don’t think we need to be regurgitating it all over again,” said Blount. Bernier stated that the district had received and vetted additional offers as late as the day before the board meeting, but had decided to stick with Chase Properties’ offer. Carney explained that some potential buyers planned only to renovate the building rather than demolish it, which she argued would not sufficiently increase the city’s tax base.

Thursday, December 25 at 10am - in the chapel. Holy Eucharist with traditional Hymns.

December 28 and January 4 at 8:00 a.m. - in the church. No Christian Formation Classes. 5:00 p.m. The River

Student Safety a Priority for Joint Meeting of Government Officials

By Joe Wilhelm Jr.

Finding a better way to address the safety of Duval County students was a priority issue of the joint meeting of the Jacksonville City Council and Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Board on Nov. 6 in council chambers.

Nearing the halfway point of the current school year, 10 students have been struck and two of those incidents resulted in fatalities, according to DCPS Police Chief Jackson Short. Forty-three students were struck as pedestrians on their way to or returning from school during the 2024-25 school year, with three of those resulting in fatalities.

“I go back to last year when a friend of mine who works in the mental health department of Duval County Public Schools came to me and said, ‘I have a box full of letters that came from students at Ed White High School that you need to read.’ It was after a tragedy had occurred to one of their classmates,” said City Council President Kevin Carrico. “I read those letters, and it really ached my heart to hear the frustration and sadness that those kids were going through and many of them felt like we, as a community, had forgotten about them.”

In October 2024, 17-year-old Ed White High School student Alaysha Williams lost her life while crossing Blanding Boulevard. Prior to that tragedy, a similar traffic incident in 2018 took the life of student Shaqia Bryant while she was crossing Normandy Boulevard.

DCPS staff members attended the meeting to provide information on what the district was doing to address student safety issues, including a presentation on its “Be Safe, Be Seen” initiative that was launched last year.

The program includes three pillars:

• Education: adding safety lessons to health, physical education and daily routines;

• Visibility: banners, posters and campus displays to promote pedestrian and bicycle safety, and

• Engagement: partnerships with PTA, JSO, JFRD, Baptist and Wolfson Medical Communities to take action for safer roadways.

City of Jacksonville Chief of Traffic Engineering Chris LeDew provided a presentation on what steps his department is taking to make the city’s roads safe for students and pedestrians. Tools including rapid rectangular flashing beacons, which give higher visibility to crosswalks, hybrid walk signals (HAWK) – a triangular light signal that is activated when pedestrians press a button to cross the road – speed humps, speed tables and raised crosswalks have all been used to protect pedestrians and bicyclists.

Speed humps have recently been installed at Julia Landon College Preparatory Middle School, and a raised crosswalk has been added at Fishweir Elementary School.

LeDew also addressed the topic of school zones and why only elementary schools use this traffic calming tool.

“It is a policy I inherited from 1992,” LeDew said. “We are doing a survey of what other large jurisdictions are doing across the state and looking to update our policy to possibly include some other devices and to look at middle schools as well.”

Elementary schools are also the main focus of the crossing guard program. There are currently 290 traffic guards

helping children cross the street, and there are 325 openings. Applications for part-time school crossing guards can be found on the JSO or Beaches City websites.

LeDew passed on some information from his counterpart at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), who was unable to attend the meeting.

“The FDOT has changed the way it funds projects. Instead of having one dedicated pot of money for school safety, they put all the projects in one pot,” said LeDew, “For instance, there is an approved HAWK signal for North Main Street at Andrew Jackson High School, but it doesn’t have funding. (FDOT) recommended that the School Board and City Council place them on the list of priority projects. That will give weight to the FDOT funding decision.”

Carrico pledged at the end of the meeting that there will be another joint meeting, and he will gather the right people to get some movement on the safety of area students.

“I will commit, Madam Chairwoman, if you want to meet with me, [DCPS Superintendent] Dr. [Christopher] Bernier, the mayor’s chief of staff or even the mayor, and just have a high-level conversation,” said Carrico. “We will take the initiative, and this will not be the last joint meeting, we will take this and follow up and do something.”

Cindy Edelman Fellowship Empowers Duval Teachers to Elevate Their Craft

The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is inviting Duval County educators to apply for the Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship.

Launched in 2020, the fellowship funds innovative professional learning opportunities – from international exchanges to research programs – to help educators “design and pursue professional learning experiences of

their own creation.”

“Great teachers share an incredible passion to elevate their practice so they can be more effective in the classroom,” said Cindy Edelman, retired art history educator and founder of the Fellowship. “With this fellowship, we open doors for dedicated professionals to design the learning experiences they need to advance

their craft and inspire students.”

JPEF administers the fellowship, which is a permanent fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. It is open to K-12 Duval County public school teachers. The application period will remain open until Jan. 16.

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Standing Watch for Veterans in Crisis

Florida nonprofit The Fire Watch is celebrating a significant milestone, announcing that it has trained more than 10,000 people across the state through its Watch Stander program.

The Fire Watch’s mission is to end Veteran Suicide. Watch Stander serves as its cornerstone prevention initiative. Launched in 2020, it is an “early intervention, lifesaving network of community members trained to identify risk factors of Veterans in crisis and direct those Veterans to the resources they need.”

“10,000 Watch Standers is a major milestone for us,” says Fire Watch Executive Director Nick Howland. “The Watch Stander program is modeled after CPR. Across Florida, our neighbors, co-workers, friends, and family members are completing the training, standing vigilant to the concerns of Veterans, and, when necessary, referring them to life-saving resources. Data shows that over the next 12 months, our 10,000 Watch Standers will direct more than 15,000 Florida Veterans to the services they need.”

More than 6,000 Veterans take their own lives every year – a rate nearly twice as high as their civilian counterparts, covering all demographics and age groups. Training for the Watch Stander Program can be completed in 30 to 45 minutes and is available free of charge at www.thefirewatch.org/watch-standers

Breathe Easy This Holiday Season

As loved ones arrive –elders, children, and friends –celebrate in a home filled with cleaner, healthier air, ensuring every gathering is safe, warm, and joyful.

When was the last time you had your air ducts cleaned?

or

After graduating college and struggling to find work in my field, I realized my degrees didn’t guarantee stability. I had to leave my old job and fill the gap, so I turned to HVAC. Comfort cooling is always needed, and that consistency drew me in. I enjoy the hands-on work—something I’ve always preferred—even back in school. One of my favorite parts of the day is removing, taking apart, and cleaning the blower assembly; it’s like a small game I try to beat. The work makes a difference—improving airflow and air quality while extending equipment life. People don’t realize how bad ductwork can get. While a lot of the jobs are repetitive, like duct cleanings, I enjoy more involved tasks like duct installations. I usually work with a helper, which I prefer, and I don’t mind routine sites—just not dryer vents. I like learning new HVAC technologies and believe there’s always room to grow. I’m content with the job.

Shipyards West Park Design Nearly Complete USS Orleck Crew seeking changes to latest design

By Joe Wilhelm Jr

As designs for the incoming Shipyards West Park near completion, the community had an opportunity to weigh in on the latest round of updates.

Several renderings of the proposed park, planned for the riverfront space on East Bay Street, were displayed at Nov. 6 open house hosted by the City of Jacksonville. It was held at the Jacksonville Public Library Main Branch.

One of the prominent features of the new design is a two-story gallery and event pavilion proposed for the west side of the property near the Fire Museum and USS Orleck Naval Museum. Plans for the first floor propose a café, restrooms, gallery and ticket booth for the USS Orleck Naval Museum to replace the modular building currently in use. The second floor could be used as an events space for weddings and corporate functions.

While 90% of the design has been completed, some attendees of the open house hope there is still time to make some changes. Upon reviewing the renderings and diagrams, Jim Fossa, ship manager for the USS Orleck Naval Museum, had some questions about the latest vision for the park, particularly where access to the pier and ship is concerned: The ramps that allow visitors to gain access to the pier and the USS Orleck were not listed on the latest renderings. A row of trees occupies the space where the ramps and ticket booth currently sit near the pier.

“How are people going to get on and off the ship? Where are they going to park? What are we going to do during construction?” said Fossa.

While changes are being made to the area during the design process, the design team is willing to work with stakeholders to make things right.

“There will most likely be some changes to the site,” said Gina Ford, lead designer for the project and co-founder of Agency Landscape and Planning. “We will be talking with the Orleck about how change happens and when. The hope is that it stays there and is incorporated into the new park and we can work together.”

The City is planning on breaking ground on the project next spring and will coordinate with current stakeholders as the project progresses.

“There is going to be a construction manager brought on board in the spring and they will be working with us, the design team, to make sure we stay on budget and understand feasibility. Part of their charge will be phasing and working with stakeholders to plan for what happens during construction,” said Ford.

The City has dedicated $54.7 million for the park in 2025/26 fiscal budget, and $5 million in the following year’s budget. Total cost for the project is estimated at $74.7 million by the City, adding $15 million that was previously set aside for the park.

While the design phase may be drawing to a close for the Shipyards West Park, people are still bringing ideas to the table for the next big step for downtown.

Stephen Jorgensen attended the open house to see what the park had to offer and talk to people about moving the sail structure of the USS Jacksonville, the only vessel of the U.S. Navy to be named for Jacksonville, Fla., to the First Coast. The USS Jacksonville was a nuclear-powered Los Angeles-class attack submarine.

“It would be great to bring it here alongside the Orleck,” said Jorgensen.

Bill Hoff, Scenic Jacksonville’s interim board president, was impressed with how responsive the process has been to public comment.

“It’s improved from the initial design. It looks like they have incorporated elements from community feedback,” said Hoff.

Scenic Jacksonville Executive Director Nancy Powell liked the design, but could do without the sand features, the beach between piers three and four and the grill area and sand volleyball court.

“There’s too much sand. I see what they are trying to do, but it just presents too many problems: sand is hot, leaves and other debris can collect in the sand and pets use the sand,” said Powell.

By Michele Leivas

At a special ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 15, the San Marco Library sealed messages, memories and mementos in a time capsule that will not be opened for another 25 years.

The Time Capsule event was the conclusion of the branch’s year-long celebrations commemorating its 75th anniversary. Civic leader E. Zimmermann Boulos kicked off the day’s festivities with a special lecture about some of San Marco’s most recognizable public art – its sculptures. He shared insights and stories about several community art installations, from San Marco Square’s iconic Lion Fountain to “Transform,” the latest addition to the community’s sculpture collection, installed in Landon

A Legacy for the Future Community voices sealed in

San Marco Library time capsule

Park earlier this year.

Following Boulos’ presentation, community members were invited to contribute to the time capsule before it was sealed.

Cynthia Richardson wrote down her own memory of the library and placed it in the capsule. She said the library is one of her favorite places.

“I’m 55 years old and I still love the library,” Richardson said. “…Learning is free, and I’m still learning at 55 years young; every day, I try to learn something new, and the library is free…You can travel the whole world right from the neighborhood, so I just love it.”

Jacksonville Public Library Chief Librarian and Library

Director Tim Rogers said the event’s turnout demonstrated just how much the library means to the community.

“When we had the first event [for the 75th anniversary] back in January, I was blown away by the number of people that came – the ages of the people that were there,” Rogers said. “But this, as the closing event, really is a perfect capstone. This shows the importance of the library to the community: people from all walks of life – their one commonality is they really care about the neighborhood and the community, and they see that the library represents that for them.”

The time capsule will remain locked and on display in the San Marco Library until its centennial anniversary in 2050.

A Look Back

SMPS Past President LeAnna Cumber

By Michele Leivas

When LeAnna Cumber thinks back on her terms as San Marco Preservation Society president, she said Landon Park is the project of which she is proudest.

“When my tenure started as president, this playground was not a place that children went to, as it was rundown and outdated,” Cumber recalled. “As a mother myself, I thought it was critically important to the families in the neighborhood to have a place close to home to enjoy with their kids.”

Cumber’s journey with the preservation society began as a volunteer for the Tour of Homes before advancing to serve as events chair on the SMPS Board of Directors.

1st Sunday of Every Month Trunk Sale 9 a.m-2 p.m. 12/21 Last-Minute Gift Market 9 a.m-2 p.m.

January Anniversary Sale & Market 1/11/26

In 2016, Cumber began two consecutive terms as SMPS president.

When Cumber realized there was nothing in San Marco comparable to Avondale’s Boone Park North, she collaborated with the board, the City and then-City Councilmember Lori Boyer to rehabilitate the neighborhood playground. Today, it is a treasured community destination, complete with a playground, a garden for butterflies and other pollinators and unique public art for the neighborhood to enjoy.

“It makes me incredibly happy to see kids there everyday now enjoying the park with their families,” Cumber said.

@DelightfullyStrangeFinds

Cumber said the preservation society plays a vital role in the community, both highlighting the neighborhood’s history and retaining its character without impeding change or progress.

“Sometimes historic societies are seen as costly impediments to being able to change your home to adapt to your needs and architectural ideas,” Cumber said. “Because of SMPS’ role, it has been able to avoid being seen as an impediment and instead seen as a benefit to the community.”

During her tenure, Cumber had the opportunity to work alongside several influential residents who have helped to shape the San Marco community and who also inspired her, personally.

“Without a doubt the three people who influenced me the most during my time were Lori Boyer, then City Council member, Mary Toomey, then SMPS treasurer, and Zim Boulos, a man who needs no introduction,”

she said. “All are incredibly accomplished, bright and direct - attributes I greatly admire and try to emulate. They also have all given so much to the San Marco community without ever asking for recognition. We all should thank them for making San Marco the vibrant community that it is today.”

Cumber would follow in Boyer’s footsteps, serving as the city council member representing the San Marco community from 2019 to 2023.

She said she believes the San Marco overlay is the “most significant” work the organization has done, alongside drafting a plan for area development.

“From a municipal perspective as well as from an urban development and infrastructure perspective, it is critical for neighborhoods such as ours to create a comprehensive, living planning document that is followed but also updated as the times and neighborhood changes,” she said.

orlando valle v proficient auto transport, Inc., et al

$14.5 MILLION

(verdict, 5/4/2022)

Personal Injury: Trucking Crash

kathleen thomas* V geico insurance company

$14.4 MILLION

(verdict, 8/5/2022)

Personal Injury: car accident

*Names changed to protect client privacy

john and debra Smith* v local glass company, Out-of-state glass company*

$4.5 MILLION

(set tlement, 8/17/2021)

Personal Injury: Workplace Negligence

*Names changed to protect client privacy

Circuit Judge to Rule on Class Action Status for IFF Lawsuit

By Michele Leivas

Years in the making, a lawsuit against International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) may be granted class action status for the “noxious” odors the lawsuit alleges are emitted by the facility.

Affected residents packed a Jacksonville courtroom on Monday, Nov. 17, as counsel presented arguments for and against the class action status for a lawsuit filed against IFF.

The lawsuit, filed in January 2022, alleges IFF “emits noxious odors that interfere with residents’ ability to use and enjoy their property and negatively impact property values.”

An additional hearing was held on Nov. 24. Duval County Circuit Judge Robert Dees is still cosider evidence and proposed orders before issuing his ruling.

Currently, the lawsuit has three named plaintiffs. Still, representing counsel Laura Sheets said there is a much larger group of impacted residents.

They’ve confirmed that the odor that comes from IFF has the ability to travel between three and nine miles. – Laura Sheets

“That includes roughly around – it’s 6,000 households approximately,” Sheets said.

Following the Nov. 17 hearing, IFF shared a statement with Resident News, which read:

“Monday’s hearing marked an important step in the legal process, and we appreciate the opportunity to share our position, supported by case law. We respect the judge’s role and the importance of considering all evidence to reach a fair and informed decision. IFF remains committed to being a responsible community partner, employing best-in-

class technologies and processes to prevent odors from leaving our facility and working collaboratively with the City of Jacksonville. Importantly, data from the City’s own odor study and case experts reinforce what we have consistently stated: IFF is not the source of the increased odor complaints in Murray Hill.”

The City of Jacksonville’s Urban Odor Study, conducted by Envirosuite, spanned 12 months – April 2022 to April 2023.

Sheets acknowledged that other facilities emit odors but argued, “those smells don’t travel to our class area the way these do.”

Sheets cited third-party evidence outside the Envirosuite study that supports the claim that odors from IFF can travel farther than those from other facilities.

“It’s a third party that is basically just trying to figure this whole thing out, and they have definitively, at least brought forward evidence on their own where they’ve confirmed that the odor that comes from IFF has the ability to travel between three and nine miles, because of how malodorous it is,” Sheets said.

As of print time, Judge Dees had yet to make his ruling on the motion for class action status. Resident News will continue reporting on this matter as details emerge.

Peppermint Poll

The Questions

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Vocational

Constellation Furyk and Friends Earns PGA Tour Champions’ 2025 Players Award

Constellation Furyk and Friends presented by Circle K is the recipient of the PGA Tour Champions’ 2025 Players Award after PGA Tour Champions players voted the tournament as their favorite event.

This is the second year the tournament received this accolade, previously taking it home in 2022. It is made in recognition of a tournament “that goes above and beyond in the experience they provide to PGA Tour Champions players.”

Constellation Furyk and Friends presented by Circle K was one of four award winners recognized at the annual PGA Tour Champions Tournaments Meetings, held on Tuesday, Nov. 4 and Wednesday, Nov. 5. The three fellow award recipients were Simmons Bank Championship (President’s Award), Hoag Classic (Sales Award) and Peter Jacobsen (Bruno Award).

Decades of Dedication

Daughters of the American Revolution Fort San Nicholas Chapter honored volunteer Patricia Vail during DAR’s Women’s History Month for her tireless support of and commitment to her community.

In addition to her pro bono legal work for seniors with the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, Vail is also a docent at The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, a master gardener, and a member of the Duval County Council on Elder Affairs. Vail was a regular visitor at area nursing homes as a member of the Singing Seniors, and she was a member of Uptown Civitan for 42 years. An avid art collector, Vail donated much of her collection to the University of North Florida when she recently relocated to Atlanta, Georgia.

“When I arrived in Jacksonville in June 1983, Mr. Prime Osborn urged me to participate in volunteer activities as a CSX employee,” Vail said. “He was right: There were always new and interesting volunteer opportunities. I urge folks to try something new that allows them to learn new things, meet new people and be a positive contributor. Jacksonville is the perfect place to carry out each piece of advice.”

Autumn Leaves and Wedding Dreams

Jacksonville’s

A New England fall road trip to see the fall foliage and explore some of the region’s small coastal towns took a surprise turn in Vermont for Brittiany Light when boyfriend Alexander Stone, from Fredericksburg, Virginia, took a knee and popped the question on Saturday, Oct. 25. Before a picturesque and quintessential New England backdrop, Light beamed and said yes. Light, originally from Callahan, Florida, is master stylist as Riverside’s HairPeace salon.

The couple is planning a fall wedding in October 2026.

Saddling Up for a New Equine Therapy Partnership

North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) celebrated the launch of a new equine therapy partnership with Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, with a ribboncutting of its new horse trailer last month.

The program, known as Assisted Dog and Pony Therapy (ADAPT), will integrate miniature horses into structured clinical sessions for animal-assisted therapy. The program also opens the door for NFSSE students to engage with Nemours Children’s services. NFSSE received a specially designed miniature horse trailer as a gift from the Rotary Club of East Arlington to transport the therapy horses from the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center to Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville.

Zuino to Succeed Mayo at Helm of Baptist Health

Baptist Health’s Board of Directors has appointed Matthew A. Zuino, MSIS, FACHE, as its next president and CEO, effective Jan. 17, 2026.

Zuino, the system’s chief operating officer since 2020, will succeed Michael A. Mayo, DHA, FACHE, who announced earlier this year he will retire after a four-decade career in health care leadership.

Board Chair Deborah Pass Durham called Zuino a “visionary leader” with a strong record in operational excellence.

With more than 30 years of experience, Zuino has helped position Baptist Health as a high-performing, community-focused system recognized for clinical excellence. As COO, he oversees hospital, physician practice and ambulatory operations. Net revenue has grown from $2 billion in FY 2020 to a projected $3.7 billion in FY 2026, and he is credited as a key architect of the organization’s Vision for 2030.

Zuino joined Baptist Health in 2017 after 17 years with Virtua Health in New Jersey. He holds degrees from Drexel University and Widener University and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He also serves on the United Way of Northeast Florida Board of Directors, where he will become vice chair.

Mayo said Zuino has united leaders around shared goals and understands that excellence involves both measurable outcomes and a culture focused on improving lives.

Pajcic & Pajcic Donates Historic $100K to Support Riverside Arts Market Shoppers

A historic $100,000 gift from The Law Firm of Pajcic and Pajcic to the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) is providing immediate food support for local families.

The donation funds a program offering RAM shoppers $40 in redeemable tokens usable with any vendor. It is the largest contribution in RAM’s history.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, District 7 Councilmember Jimmy Peluso, Pajcic family members and representatives from Riverside Avondale Preservation and RAM gathered for the Nov. 6 check presentation, held at RAP headquarters.

“This is something my dad and uncle have taught all of us, that it’s important to give back,” said Seth Pajcic. “If you have the opportunity to do it, you should give back. It’s the precedent they set for us, and we’re doing that here as well to help people in Jacksonville who have needs.”

A prior $20,000 donation from Pajcic and Pajcic enabled the program to launch Nov. 1 amid the government shutdown, during which time it was open to all shoppers.

RAM Director Chloe Kuhn said it had immediate impact.

“We supported 57 families immediately, with less than 24 hours’ notice to the public,” Kuhn said.

The law firm then added $80,000 to continue the initiative.

“We can only imagine what this $100,000 generous gift is going to be able to support this coming Saturday and the Saturdays beyond,” Kuhn continued.

With the government shutdown now over, Kuhn said the program will continue, transitioning to SNAP-only shoppers in early December.

Casting for Kindness

Sara Burk spends her days helping people.

As a nurse in the operating room at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, she quite literally works to change people’s lives every day.

Yet, motivated by her own family’s journey with heart disease, she was inspired to find another way to help people. That was the birth of the 904 Redfish Tournament, a charitable event that incorporated Burk’s lifelong love of fishing and her drive to do good.

The second annual 904 Redfish Tournament was held at Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill in Ponte Vedra Beach on Oct. 2 and 4. Nearly 120 boats participated in the event, raising more than $40,000 to help a 10-year-old girl battling bone cancer.

Burk struggled to find words to express how meaningful it has been to see the community show up and join her in this cause.

“It makes me really happy,” Burk said. “It blew me away again this year, as it did with the first [tournament], which was so cool and honestly, kind of hard to put into words.”

This year, Burk introduced a junior angler division, allowing the next generation of fishers and philanthropists to give back while having fun.

“I was really excited to get the kids involved and that definitely has made it grow some too because I want it to be big on family,” Burk said. “And we can’t leave out the kids, you know. We got to let them come and fish, too. That’s where I started.”

Burk is already looking ahead to next year’s tournament. She plans to donate those proceeds to V for Victory, a Jacksonville-based nonprofit that provides everyday services at no cost to people and families battling cancer.

Dyslexia Awareness Month Highlighted with ‘Unlocking Dyslexia’ Life Lab

The Main Branch of the Jacksonville Public Library, in partnership with the Education and Reading Intervention Network (ERIN) and Hope Haven, hosted a “life lab” to learn more about dyslexia during Dyslexia Awareness Month.

“Unlocking Dyslexia” was held on Saturday, Oct. 4, and offered participants a two-hour lab featuring a screening of the film “Embracing Dyslexia” and presentations by speakers, including neuropsychologist Dr. Laura Bailet. Additional speakers included Nancy Barnard of Hope Haven, Dannah Fritz of Jacksonville Tutoring Specialists, Amanda Davis of Mind Rise Learning and Maggie Morrison of Inspired Educational Services.

Expanding Services, Expanding Impact

ENT Specialists of North Florida

There’s very little that online shopping can’t get to your doorstep with fast shipping and affordable prices, including over-the-counter hearing aids and devices. It’s fast. It’s convenient. But it’s not always the best option when you’re having issues with your hearing.

What you miss out on with these over-the-counter products are the personal attention and customized care that best address your specific situation, which can lead to a better outcome and higher quality of life for yourself and your loved ones who want the best for you.

team of doctoral-level Audiologists, like Dr. Bubenheimer, provides personalized attention and top-of-the-line care to address any hearing issues you may be experiencing and can provide a customized treatment plan suited specifically to you.

“Settings are based on a diagnostic

hearing exam performed by a Doctor of Audiology, not an online self-performed screening,” Dr. Bubenheimer said.

With offices already in Riverside and Southside, ENT Specialists of North Florida has expanded its ability to serve patients with a third location, now open

to advanced treatment options, ENT Specialists of North Florida offers care that extends far beyond its physical spaces. The professionals at ENT Specialists of North Florida provide medical care spanning a broad spectrum of specialties, including ears and hearing; nose and sinus; throat and voice; head and neck; and pediatric otolaryngology. Additionally, ENT Specialists of North Florida has a multispecialty team able to offer comprehensive pediatric treatment for craniofacial anomalies, including ear deformities, cleft lip and palate, Pierre Robin Sequence, hemangioma and vascular malformations, skull deformities and tumors, as well as other disorders.

Hearing loss affects more than 1.5 billion people around the world and can have wide-ranging impacts on one’s quality of life. At ENT Specialists of North Florida, it is approached with a uniquely global perspective that begins with a comprehensive hearing evaluation and medical assessment, which includes the removal of earwax, if necessary, along with a medical evaluation of the inner

ear, middle ear, and outer ear functioning, which will help identify the type and cause of hearing loss. This will also help determine whether hearing aids are needed or if an alternative treatment plan can be considered to help restore hearing.

“Our audiologists are here for you for personalized adjustments and regular follow-up care,” Dr. Bubenheimer said.

ENT SPECIALISTS OF NORTH FLORIDA

“The latest, most-advanced technology available and professional audiology services set prescription hearing aids apart,” said Dr. Lori Bubenheimer, Au.D., CCC-A of ENT Specialists of North Florida. ENT Specialists of North Florida’s

in St. Johns County. This network of offices throughout the Jacksonville area means there is an office easily accessible to patients throughout the region, regardless of where they live.

From state-of-the-art facilities

Honoring a Generation Navy League marks Vietnam War anniversary

Navy League Jacksonville Council’s biannual Salute to Veterans Dinner held an even greater significance last month as it marked the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War and paid tribute to those veterans who served during the war with courage and distinction.

The evening took place on Thursday, Nov. 13, at Hilltop Restaurant and welcomed two special guest speakers: Gary Newman, current president of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Florida State Council, and Tina Pham, founder and president of the Asian Chamber of Commerce of North Florida and owner-broker of Golden Pen Realty.

Proceeds from the dinner – one of the council’s key fundraising events – will support the Sea Cadet programs of the Navy League Cadet Corps and the Navy Sea Cadet Corps of the FD Roosevelt Squadron. These programs serve youth ages 10 to 13 and 13 to 17, respectively.

Leading with Service and Success

Little more than a week ahead of Veterans Day, Operation New Uniform held its own celebration for veterans, specifically for those in its 70th graduating class of its Career Readiness Program.

Held at The Conference Center at GuideWell on Friday, Oct. 31, the event welcomed military officials, local leaders and family members to the ceremony honoring the 16 graduates, all of whom are either recently separated from the military or activeduty servicemembers approaching retirement. Alumni of the program also attended, celebrating and supporting their brothers and sisters as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives.

Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Allen West congratulated the graduates and shared advice on how to approach their second career.

“Now is your time to step up and go back into this community, go back into this society, go back into this incredible economic machine that we have built in the United States of America, and continue your mission to serve, to support, to protect, to preserve that which keeps this country going, to continue to give back,” West said.

ONU’s Career Readiness Program is a nationally recognized initiative that equips veterans with the tools to launch successful, purposeful civilian careers after retirement.

Year-End Investment Planning

Your checklist to start 2026 strong

As 2025 winds down, it’s the perfect time to review your finances and take advantage of oncea-year opportunities. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing charitable giving, or preparing for tax changes, this checklist will help you enter 2026 on solid financial footing. We’ve also included key updates from the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, which reshapes several tax and savings rules.

1. Maximize Retirement Contributions

Retirement contributions are key to yearend planning. You can contribute to Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) until April 15, 2026, but building the habit of contributing annually before year-end helps maintain discipline. For qualified retirement plans like a 401(k), TSP, 403(b), and 457(b), consider contributing enough to receive your full employer match and aim to get as close to the annual limit as possible.

A key update from the SECURE 2.0 Act affects catch-up contributions: Starting in 2026, if you’re age 50 or older and earned more than $145,000 in 2025, you’ll be required to make catch-up contributions on a Roth basis. This may reduce tax efficiency for high earners, so it’s wise to maximize traditional catch-up contributions while still available in 2025.

2. Review Expenses and Rebalance

Investment Portfolios

Assess your 2025 spending and forecast 2026 expenses. Determine how much will be covered by income versus savings. If you’ll draw from your investment portfolio, consider rebalancing toward conservative holdings like bonds or balanced funds for short- to mid-term needs. With the market near highs, it’s important to consider reducing exposure to volatile assets for funds you’ll need soon.

3. Optimize Charitable Giving

Charitable giving strategies are evolving, especially with upcoming changes in 2026. Changes for large donors include new limitations on itemized deductions, so if you regularly donate, consider front-loading gifts this year or using a Donor-Advised Fund. You might also consider donating appreciated assets like stocks or real estate to potentially reduce capital gains taxes while supporting causes you care about. A new abovethe-line deduction in 2026 will allow up to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for married couples’ donations to qualified public charities—on top of the standard deduction – provided the gifts are documented and made in cash.

Finally, if you’re over 70.5 years old, consider giving from your IRA. Qualified Charitable

Distributions (QCDs) from a traditional IRA can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), reduce taxable income, and be excluded from Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), making them a triple-tax-efficient way to give.

4. Take Required Minimum Distributions

If you’re 73 or older and own a traditional IRA, confirm you’ve taken your RMD for 2025. If you don’t need the funds now, ask your provider about transferring assets in-kind to a taxable account to avoid selling investments prematurely.

5. Harvest Tax Losses

Review your portfolio for positions held at a loss. Selling them can offset capital gains or reduce ordinary income by up to $3,000. Excess losses carry forward to future years, offering long-term tax benefits.

6. Make Tax-Wise Gifts and consider gifting through 529 plans

Remember the annual gift exclusion. In 2025, you can gift up to $19,000 per person ($38,000 per couple) without triggering gift tax reporting.

Consider using 529 plans to gift, especially to children. These accounts offer tax-free growth potential and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. They’re ideal for gifting to

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season

children or grandchildren. 529 plans were also expanded under the OBBBA – they now cover vocational schools, they can be used for up to $20,000/year for K-12 education and related expenses, and up to $35,000 (lifetime limit) can be converted to a Roth IRA (if the account is open for 15+ years). 529s can also be transferred to new beneficiaries – so they’re great for growing families.

7. Foster Financial Confidence Money can be a sensitive topic. Open, honest conversations with family members help prevent misunderstandings and build trust. Even if one spouse or partner handles the finances, we recommend reviewing your financial picture together regularly. If you’d like help starting these conversations, we’re happy to share resources and tips to ensure that the family gets on the same page.

The end of the year is more than a time for celebration—it’s a chance to take control of your financial future. With major changes from OBBBA taking effect in 2026, proactive planning now can help you preserve tax advantages, support your loved ones, and enter the new year with confidence. If you’d like personalized guidance or help implementing any of these strategies, please reach out to the team at Walsh Investment Consulting Group.

guaranteed or insured by the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities. Contributions are not insured by the FDIC and are not

registered under federal securities laws, pursuant to exemptions for charitable organizations.

Donor Advised

Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing in a 529 savings plan. The official statement, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor/ Read it carefully before you invest. The availability of such tax or other benefits may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements.

A Blooming Success

A Night of Wild Support for Roars and More

Roars and More: A Gala of a Different Sort attracted 1,600 guests to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens on Sunday, Nov. 16 for family-friendly entertainment, toy giveaways, food, music and interactive fun.

Proceeds from the evening will support Community PēdsCare, which provides compassionate, specialized care for children and families facing life-limiting and complex medical conditions through the Foundation of Community Hospice and Palliative Care.

“This program is largely unfunded, and there are very few within the country that exist, because it requires funding from donors and the community,” said Executive Director Annie Tuttle. “We are so blessed here in Jacksonville to have people who are so willing to give and support such an important program.”

The evening was presented by The Players Championship and held in partnership with the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

An Evening in Wonderland for River Garden

The 33rd annual River Garden Foundation Gala transported guests to a magical land with its 2025 theme, “Welcome to Wonderland.”

This gala serves as River Garden Hebrew Home’s signature event to raise funds to support the exceptional care the home provides to its senior residents, regardless of their financial resources. Since its inception in 1993, the River Garden Foundation Gala has raised more than $5.9 benefiting River Garden residents.

The 2025 co-chairs are Erin Rogozinski Weintraub and Sandy Zimmerman.

Comprehensive care for brain and spine health

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When you need care for brain and spine health, the surgeons at Ascension St. Vincent’s are educated and trained at some of the most well-respected neurosurgical programs in the nation.

You can expect the latest in diagnosis and treatment, including:

• Minimally invasive and complex spine surgery

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Get personalized patient care from your trusted experts in brain and spine surgery.

Scan the QR code to find a neurosurgeon

The 2025 season for the First Coast Design Show kicked off Collectors Party.

The party, held on Thursday, Nov. 13, welcomed the next generation delivering an evening of mixing and mingling as guests immersed designs. Drinks and small bites were provided and the evening Children’s Hospital through The Women’s Board.

Living last month with its annual Young generation of

sophisticates ages 21 to 40,

in a world of antiques, art, gardens and interior offered a silent auction as well, all in support of Wolfson

an Evening for St. Johns Riverkeeper

St. Johns Riverkeeper hosted its 24th annual Oyster Roast against the scenic, riverfront backdrop of the Garden Club of Jacksonville on Friday, Nov. 21.

Funds raised at this event support the critical advocacy, outreach and education programs provided by St. Johns Riverkeeper – the only nonprofit entirely devoted to protecting and restoring the St. Johns River and its watershed. Held the same year as the organization celebrates its 25th anniversary, the 2025 Oyster Roast provided live music by Firewater Tent Revival while guests enjoyed food by Biscottis, a silent auction and, of course, plenty of oysters. A Pearl of

Totally Transformative

Sulzbacher took guests back to the ‘90s at its signature fundraising event, Transformations, this year in honor of its 30th anniversary.

Guests were encouraged to don their best and favorite ‘90s attire for the evening, which took place at The Glass Factory on Thursday, Oct. 30, with popular ‘90s local cover band Julia Gulia providing the era-appropriate tunes that kept guests out on the dance floor and singing along.

This annual event raises critical funds and awareness for Sulzbacher’s mission to provide “affordable access to housing, health care, and opportunities for economic growth” to the community.

Champions of Care

We Care Jacksonville, Inc. (WeCareJax) returned to the River City Railway for its 2025 Caring Awards on Thursday, Nov. 6.

These annual awards recognize and celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to healthcare while also raising critical funds to support intensive medical and social case management.

The evening recognized the inaugural Wave Maker Award recipient: Ascension St. Vincent’s, which was the first hospital to open its doors to WeCareJax and has remained a partner for more than 30 years. Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mario Pulido accepted the award for the organization.

The 2025 Caring Award Honorees were:

• Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Charles Greene (Jacksonville ENT Surgery, Greene Emerald Med Spa)

• Dr. George Trotter Founder’s Award for Physician Service: Dr. Tom Broner (Podiatrist, Baptist Beaches)

• Sister de Sales Award for Outstanding Practice Administrator: Vivienne Bennett (Ackerman Cancer Center)

• Freddie Webster RN Award for Nursing Excellence: Ruby Soriano, RN, MSN, OCN (Mayo Clinic) Patient’s Choice Award: Dr. Juan Carlos Muñoz (Borland Groover)

• Special Merit Community Partner Award: Travis Williams (LIFT Jax)

By Peggy Harrell Jennings

ART-fully Jolly Holidays

Ahhh, December. A time to reflect on the past year’s journey and revel in anticipation of an upcoming new year full of promise with a blank canvas to color in or a blank page on which to write a new chapter of your life. A time to give thanks and take time to celebrate the joys of the season, whether having a “Happy, Happy Hanukkah” or “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” with family and friends. It’s that “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” for the arts community with festivities including choral presentations, arts and crafts shows, the “Nutcracker” Ballet and so much more.

Cookie Davis, Ted Head, Lisa Lofton, Destiny Salahi and Annelies Dykgraaf are

the dedicated artists who led the way into the season at Art in the Park, assisting kids and adults to paint pumpkins – 420 of them, to be exact.

“We were scheduled for 3 p.m. to 6 pm, but around 2:30 we were rushed by a mob of kids, and 420 pumpkins were painted and gone by 4:30,” Davis said.

Several of the artists, including Marsha Hatcher, who perched on top of a 10-foot ladder, worked to paint an eight-foot pumpkin for a photo op. Join the artists at Riverside Park Dec. 6 for another Art in the Park event.

The wrap-up of the “Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial” exhibition was a joyful event for the 64 artists selected from 500 applicants for the exhibition curated by Guest Curator Adeze Wilford and MOCA Senior Curator Ylva Rouse. The Project Atrium mural in the foyer of MOCA Jacksonville was a big draw as folks could watch the work in progress and listen to artists Dustin Harewood and Shaun Thurston discuss their amazing process.

At the Jacksonville Watercolor Society event, friends celebrated Barbara Hall as she received its Artist of the Year Award. Randy Pitts received the Best in Show Award at North Point Dental’s “Road Trip,” exhibit, which was a collaboration between The Art Center (TAC) and Jacksonville Artists Guild. Mary Atwood and Doug Johnson each received Juror’s Choice awards. Artist Guild members and guests joined in the holiday spirit during their first season meeting by creating Christmas ornaments under the direction of artists Kat McCall and Don Penny. No settling down for a long winter nap for this active group.

Artists and craftsmen presented their wares at Riverside Presbyterian Church’s Art and Gift Market. It was a wonderland of handcrafted items from clay angels, quilts, paintings – countless gifts for stocking stuffers from local creatives.

Multimedia artist Suzanne Pickett’s exhibit and presentation at Women Writing for A Change was inspiring and focused on the talented woman’s dedication to bringing help and hope to Jacksonville’s Eastside through her dedication to the arts. “Through Our Eyes: Blue” – Ritz Theatre and Museum exhibit – featured works by many wellrespected local artists including Lawrence Walden, Dawn Montgomery, Annelies Dykgraaf, Marsha Hatcher, Diane Sawyer and others.

Robert Dewitt Adams’ exhibit, “Microplastic Fantastic,” at FSCJ Kent Campus challenged viewers with his ability to transform discarded items into beauty. Adams’ humor and appreciation of the absurd shine and his “disparate images and objects become a metaphor for the layering of self.”

The turnout for Svrvh Fruvcess’ blend of Japanese traditional painting with American influences at her opening at Touché Gallery

Dave and Jan Dykgraaf

drew a holly jolly crowd. Viewers enjoyed the storytelling aspect of her elegant paintings, most of them coated with resin and dried with a blowtorch.

Local sculptor David Ponsler received encouragement from Steve Williams and architect Michael Dunlap to enter a nationwide call to artists. The result? Four Cathedral District Gateway markers, recently installed in Jacksonville’s Cathedral District. Listing the contributors and supporters of the project Ponsler remarked, “It truly took a village to raise this one.” Ponsler’s bright, beautiful sculptures on Main and Monroe, E. Duval and Washington, Beaver and Market and Market and Adams streets add festive flavor to Jacksonville’s unique downtown district. It’s a beautiful sight – a winter wonderland of the arts.

December 3

Robert Lester Folsom with Rambler Kane + Sun Child Intuition Ale Works | 7 to 11 p.m.

Ticketed Show

December 3

ArtWalk; Reception for Jacksonville Artists Guild’s “Candlelight” and Abby Howard Murphy’s “Local Color” Downtown Jacksonville Public Library

December 6

Meet and Greet Authors and Artists: Doug Johnson, Peggy Harrell Jennings, Jim Draper, Dorothy Fletcher

Happy Medium Books Café | 2 to 4 p.m.

December 7

Reception for Lisa Lofton

Happy Medium Books Café | 2 to 4 p.m.

December 7

Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville presents “Firebird and Other Tales”

The Potter’s House International Ministries 4 to 5 p.m.

December 11–13

34th Annual Community Nutcracker Florida Theatre | Times vary December 13-27

Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza Haskell Building of the Jacksonville History Center

Dec. 13: Kids Day | Dec. 18: Gingerbread by Candlelight | Times vary

December 17

“Circle of Joy and Peace” Riverside Park United Methodist Church | 11 a.m.

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Traditions Continue at Commodore’s League Change of Command

The Jacksonville Commodore’s League stepped into its next 50 years, as John Kirby passed the helm to Tom Schacht, as one Commodore steps into the shoes of the next. With the club’s by-laws in mind, the leadership and spouses gathered for a Change of Command dinner outing at the Florida Yacht Club, Nov. 12, nominating and approving newly appointed Flag Officers.

The club, known for its ambassadorial program, showcases the City by way of the St. Johns River and its tributaries, bringing dignitaries and other business leaders through its main artery. As advocates for Jacksonville’s marine history, and the potential a yachting lifestyle offers its citizens, the Commodore’s League seeks to bring attention to the greatest asset of the River City – the mighty St. Johns River – and its attractive, meandering banks and bulkheads.

The newly installed slate of officers included Tom Schacht, commodore; Mark Ziegler, vice commodore; Robert Gibbs, secretary; Arnold Rogers, treasurer; Will Wheeler, membership; Robert O’Quinn, operations; Mike Barker, programs; Seth Williams, publicity and public relations; Susan Derr-Grich, events; Art Dobosiewicz, outings; and Jim Suber, waterways.

The event closed with comments from the newly installed Commodore Schacht.

“Again, I want to thank you for all of your confidence…electing me,” he shared.

“There’s a lot of great past commodores that I’m going to follow. I’m going to try and do my best to be as good as every one of you were in the year that you’ve served. Thank you very much for your guidance. Let’s enjoy the rest of the evening, I look forward to seeing you all at our first event in January.”

“Today we are doing something generations of Jacksonville residents have really just dreamed about,” said Deegan. “We are turning what was once an underused, mostly vacant stretch of riverfront into a welcoming public park that truly belongs to everyone in Jacksonville.”

RiversEdge includes four parks: Heartbeat Park, named for its defining art piece; Central Park, the main gathering area; “The Gym,” dedicated to active fitness and featuring a playground, yoga lawn, and interactive games; and Healing Gardens Park, focused on spirituality and meditation.

District 5 Councilman Joe Carlucci, who represents the Southbank, was present with his two sons. He invoked the film “Field of Dreams” in his remarks.

“Build it, and they will come. It’s literally happening right here before our eyes,” said Carlucci, gesturing behind him to the dozens of children playing on the newly opened playground.

Local parent Selma Kesedzic heard about the ribbon cutting on the news and brought her four homeschooled children to watch. She said she wanted to give her kids the opportunity to get out and meet others in the community.

“I’m actually from Europe, so I wanted them to experience something a little different. Everything is confined and surrounded by traffic noise, and this is something a little different,” said Kesedzic.

Community advocate Tracy Thornton attended the ceremony with her mother. While she said she was excited about how beautiful the new space is, she also hopes to see equal investment across Jacksonville’s communities.

“You’re standing here, and you're like, ‘Wow, this is really beautiful.’And I know a couple of really great views of the Trout River that would benefit from the same attention,” said Thornton.

One of the partners who made the project possible was Dallas-based Preston Hollow Community Capital. According to CEO and Chairman Jim Thompson, Preston Hollow has been working on RiversEdge since 2020 and has invested $100 million.

“There’s still a lot more to do – we’ve got sites here for condos, multifamily buildings, as well as hopefully a hotel and an office building,” said Thompson. “What we’ve learned being involved now with Jacksonville for five years is that this is a city where things can get done.”

Carlucci reiterated that sentiment, pointing to the dog park, tennis and pickleball courts, and other nearby future development.

“This truly is kind of a first step in the park – it’s a big one – but we still have three or four more parks that we're going to be planning,” said Carlucci.

Delayed diagnosis of Stroke.

$10 MILLION

For two plaintiffs with mesothelioma; a welder at the shipyards and an electrician at the railroad, paper mill and Navy.

Slip and fall on outdoor wooden walkway not sufficiently maintained, requiring ankle surgery.

Local FOLKS

By Fabrizio Gowdy

For Hannah Windsor, part of San Marco’s charm is the way it reminds her of her European upbringing.

“It feels like a European village with a Floridian soul,” said Hannah.

Originally from Kent, England, and raised in Madrid, Spain, Hannah’s life has been shaped by international experiences. In addition to England and Spain, she’s lived in Sardinia, Italy and Nairobi, Kenya. She is fluent in English, Castilian Spanish, Italian

Hannah Windsor

and Swahili, and has set a goal to achieve fluency in French within the next two years.

Her mother worked as a doctor for NGOs, including Doctors Without Borders, meaning Hannah traveled frequently growing up.

“She elected to go to tiny little villages and build clinics from the ground up, where the first clinic was a mud hut,” recalled Hannah.

“She’s always had that spirit of giving and using anything she had to give back.”

Hannah credits her upbringing for instilling in her a spirit of service that still drives her today. She’s the presidentelect of the Rotary Club of San Marco, vice president of chapter engagement and inclusion for the National Charity League Jacksonville Chapter and a former board member of the Jericho School for Autism.

“I don’t know if I would be anyone without constantly looking for ways to give back. That is what drives me,” Hannah said.

open houses to admire beautiful homes. She specializes in historic districts like San Marco, Riverside and Avondale, as well as luxury markets like Ponte Vedra.

Before real estate, Hannah’s career included roles as a certified sommelier, a fine-dining caterer and a teacher. She also spent time as a stay-at-home mom, raising her son Max, who is autistic. Her “lively” teenage daughter, Julia, enjoys rugby and golf. Hannah met her husband, David,

I don’t know if I would be anyone without constantly looking for ways to give back. That is what drives me. – Hannah Windsor

Before settling in Jacksonville, Hannah lived in Pennsylvania, California and Connecticut. Her journey to San Marco began with a visit to a friend living in Atlantic Beach.

“Once I went back to Connecticut, I said to my family, ‘I don’t know what we’re doing here. There’s this beautiful place that I went to – Jacksonville, Florida. I’ve never heard of it, but that is where we should be,’” explained Hannah.

Hannah traded icy winters for Florida sunshine, moving to Jacksonville Beach. After several years living at the beach, she happened to see a notice in the newspaper about a vintage car show in San Marco and decided to take her family. It was her first time visiting the neighborhood, but it reminded her strongly of Europe and home. She soon moved to San Marco and has been here six years now.

A member of the San Marco Merchants’ Association, Hannah loves supporting local businesses. Some of her favorite local spots are Gemma’s, Bitty & Beau’s for coffee, V Pizza and Sidecar, and the small plaza next to Mayday Ice Cream.

Around the same time, she moved to San Marco, Hannah fulfilled her dream of becoming a full-time realtor. She is fascinated with architecture and home design and enjoys hosting and attending

in California; an Emmy Award-winning journalist, he’s originally from Spain and worked at ESPN in Connecticut before they relocated.

In her free time, Hannah enjoys gardening, hosting tea parties and traveling. She also contributes to Jacksonville Mom, writing from the heart about culture and community.

Road Traffic Victims Remembered at Bike Walk Jax Event

By Jennifer Jensen

Families of traffic crash victims, advocates for street safety and city officials gathered at Artist Square Park on Saturday, Nov. 15, to commemorate World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.

Bike Walk Jax, the City of Jacksonville Transportation Planning Division and the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization hosted it.

“It’s a time to gather with each other,

remember those lost and advocate for change,” Bike Walk Jax Chair Lauren Rushing said. “Everyone has the right to get to their destination safely.”

Bike Walk Jax is a local nonprofit whose mission is to educate, support, promote and advocate for the needs of people who walk and bike throughout Jacksonville.

Between 2022 and 2025, there were 471 traffic-related deaths in Jacksonville. At the

event, these were represented by 471 white flags placed in front of the podium.

“The only acceptable number of people killed on the roadways is zero,” Rushing said.

Out of those deaths, 147 involved a pedestrian or bicyclist, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. In 2024, the city of Jacksonville was ranked as the 15th most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians

nationwide, as reported in Smart Growth America’s biannual Dangerous by Design Report (2024). So far this year, 138 people have been lost to traffic violence on the roadways.

The public also heard from Madison Jackson, whose brother Drew Kohn was struck and killed while walking, as well as Teresa Rose, whose friend, Katie, lost her life while riding her bike. Rose was also hit and injured while riding her bike.

“Cycling is for everyone, and we should all feel safe while riding,” Rose said.

District 7 City Council Member Jimmy Peluso was also in attendance and promised to pass a resolution to protect bike lanes.

“May we never see this many flags again in our city,” Peluso said.

Rushing said Bike Walk Jax is also calling on the city to adopt an ordinance allowing for the implementation of speed cameras in school zones and to revise the school zone policy to include middle schools and some high schools, where appropriate.

“We grieve and we remember those lost and we call on our leaders to make changes,” Rushing said. “We all have a part to play and only by working together can we end these tragedies.”

ZTA Goes All-In for Pink

October. This is an annual philanthropic effort for the two organizations, with ZTA partnering with the NFL against breast cancer at “Crucial Catch” games since 1999. This October also marked the launch year for ZTA’s partnership with Loft, the women’s apparel company, for its annual Pink Day, held this year on Oct. 4. ZTA also took part in the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event.

In Memoriam

Louis Trad, Jr.

October 19, 1931 – October 10, 2025

Louis Trad, Jr. passed away on Oct. 10, just nine days before his 94th birthday, surrounded by family.

Louis was born in Bunnell, Florida, to Nazhla and Louis Trad and grew up on the family farm with his eight siblings.

He graduated from the University of Florida in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. It was at a Knights of Columbus dance that he would meet a young woman named Betty Nackashi, who would become the love of his life. The two wed in 1964 and together they raised their four children: Anna, Denise, Kathleen and Christopher.

An active member of his community, Louis enjoyed giving back by volunteering at San Jose Catholic Church, Bishop Kenny High School and the Sulzbacher Center soup kitchen; he was also a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He opened Trad’s Garden Center in 1971. Later, it would evolve into Trad’s Garden Center and Pest Control, which the Trad family continues operating today, always to his high standards.

Louis is survived by his wife, Betty; his four children and sons- and daughters-in-law; his nine grandchildren, Daniel and Michael Keehn; Nora (Tyler) and Madeline Wartan, Emily, Sadie and Jeremy Hoff, Leena and Cassidy Trad; many nieces and nephews; and his siblings Charles Trad (Harriett) and Jeannette Anderson.

Sip, Swirl and Support

Hundreds gathered on Riverside’s busy King Street corridor to enjoy good wine and good company at the 2025 Riverside WineFest. The community turned out for the charitable event,

sponsored by and benefiting Riverside Avondale Preservation, on Saturday, Nov. 22, enjoying tastings in custom-designed polymer wine glasses they could take home to commemorate the evening. The street fest also

“ YOU CAN’T STOP THE WAVES, BUT YOU CAN LEARN TO SURF. ” - JON KABAT-ZINN

Life LifeResultsChanging ResultsChanging

included free live entertainment for guests who did not purchase tickets for the tasting and all could enjoy bites from the food trucks on site.

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By Lauren K. Weedon

Community Giving Guide Part2

‘Tis the season for giving, sharing and spreading joy. Charity Chat’s Community Giving Guide continues this month, highlighting more wish lists from area nonprofits and highlighting small businesses in our Resident communities that give back with each purchase. The spirit of the season shines brightest through generosity and compassion. Whether you’re donating to a local nonprofit, supporting families in need, or volunteering your talents, your efforts help make the holidays brighter for our entire community.

Greatest Needs: Cleaning and paper products (for example: Clorox wipes, Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner, paper towels, toilet paper, bleach, and trash bags). Monetary donations at DLCJax.org

Learn More: bluestarfam.org/chapters/ jacksonville/

How to Help Today: Drop off items to the Developmental Learning Center, 4101-1 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205. Learn More: www.DLCJax.org

Greatest Needs: New, unwrapped gifts for teens and sensory toys. Monetary donations at DreamsComeTrue.org

How to Help: Drop off items at 6803 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216 on Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Shop the online Amazon Toy List and have items delivered directly at https:// bit.ly/DCT-ToyList

Learn More: www.DreamsComeTrue.org

HOPE AT HAND

Greatest Needs: Volunteers, glue sticks, colored pencils, scissors, paper and other art supplies.

How to Help Today: Drop off items at 3886 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207.

Learn More: www.hopeathand.org

HOPE HAVEN

Greatest Needs: Kitchen supplies (paper plates, bowls, utensils) and cleaning supplies. Financial donations at hope-haven.org/donate

How to Help Today: Mail or drop off items to 4600 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. Learn More: www.hope-haven.org

PINE CASTLE

Greatest Needs: Financial donations

How to Help Today: Join Pine Castle’s monthly giving program or make a onetime donation at pinecastle.org/donate Learn More: pinecastle.org

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF JACKSONVILLE

Greatest Needs: Shower curtains, pillows, car seats, household and cleaning supplies, batteries, snacks and stuffed animals. View the wish lists and purchase online: rmhcjacksonville. mindfulgiving.org

How to Help Today: Drop off items at 824 Children’s Way, Jacksonville, FL 32207 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Learn More: www.rmhcjacksonville.org

THE SANCTUARY ON 8TH STREET

Greatest Needs: Monetary donations for the “Love Like Ms. Linda” initiative. This new initiative at the Sanctuary is a way to further support the children and families in their after-school program through basic needs assistance, additional academic enrichment opportunities, mental health counseling, and increased community engagement in honor of the long-time Sanctuary employee, Ms. Linda Farmer.

How to Help Today: Donate online at: sanctuaryon8th.networkforgood.com/ projects/260216-love-like-ms-lindainitiative

Learn More: www.sanctuaryon8th.org

VISION IS PRICELESS

Greatest Needs: Monetary donations at visionispriceless.org, gas gift cards, and office furniture.

How to Help Today: Make a gift online or mail a donation to 6161 Arlington Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32211. Learn More: www.visionispriceless.org

Channeling Compassion into Action

Friday, Nov. 21, was a day to reflect on and celebrate the impact and importance of local philanthropy as the Association of Fundraising Professionals Florida, First Coast Chapter (AFP FL, First Coast) hosted National Philanthropy Day at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Jacksonville.

As it does every year, AFP FL, First Coast celebrated organizations and individuals who have left an indelible mark on the Jacksonville community through their extraordinary generosity, leadership and vision.

The 2025 National Philanthropy Day Award honorees are:

• Outstanding Philanthropist: Allen and Delores Lastinger

• Outstanding Corporation: Ascension St. Vincent’s

• Outstanding Foundation: The Daily’s Foundation

• Outstanding Champion of Diversity: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Eta Omega Chapter

• Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Sam Dean, Brian Seay and the Wolfson Children’s Bass Tournament Committee

• Outstanding Small Business or Civic Organization: 1010XL

• Next Generation Award: Kindness in a Diverse Society (KIDS)

Now Open!

Saleya

RIVIERA CAFE

Saleya Riviera Café brings the charm of the French and Italian coasts to Jacksonville. Inspired by the lively markets and seaside cafés of Nice, this new neighborhood spot offers fresh-baked Herbs de Provence bread, coastal-inspired small plates, and a relaxed, communal style of dining.

Come and experience a concept that blends Mediterranean flavors, fine wines, and spirits together in the heart of San Marco Square.

DTJax Awards Honor 2025 Downtown Champions

Downtown Vision, Inc. hosted its 11th annual DTJax Awards on Thursday, Nov. 13, at The Lark event and meeting space. The event celebrates the people and projects that have made a difference in the downtown community.

WHERE ARTS AND CREATIVITY GROW

This year, DVI debuted the Downtown Activator of the Year award, recognizing an individual or organization whose work brings Downtown to life. Through their dedication and creativity, Hush Hush Headphones transform ordinary spaces into vibrant gathering places that inspire connection, foster belonging and build a stronger community. Hush Hush Headphones owners David and Cory McCracken have brought silent discos to many local venues, including Sip and Stroll on the Southbank and Riverside Arts Market.

The additional 2025 DTJAX Award recipients are:

• Downtowner of the Year: Bryan Moll, Gateway Jax

• Small Business of the Year: The Greenhouse & Bar

• Retail Project of the Year: Pour Taproom and Pizza Dynamo

• Downtown Project of the Year: Union Terminal Warehouse

• Downtown Achievement Award: Guy Parola, Downtown Investment Authority

• Ambassador of the Year: Trai Robinson

On the Wings of Generosity

as guests gathered to raise critical funds to further the organization’s mission of relieving the financial burden of burials and funerals for families who have suffered the loss of a child.

Well jingle my bells, it’s the holiday season in the Resident Community and here I am again to tinsel your tree with some strands of Grinch and Debbie Downer and bah-humbug. If you’re not in the mood, please peruse the Junior Residents section and check back with me later. But I really hope you stick around because as cheerless as it is, I feel this conversation and expression of gratitude is worth a listen.

Here’s my thesis: “Life’s most terrible no good very bad experiences always usher us toward our unique purpose when we can learn from them and illuminate a way for others.” That is my unsophisticated way of describing the vision of goodness folks can only see when they’re at their lowest. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. illustrated it best when he said, “Only in the darkness can you see the stars.” Fred Rogers addressed the angel moments of this concept when he encouraged people to “look for the helpers” during life’s lowest of low moments. Here are a few other phrases offering similar sentiments from unknown wise people:

“In the darkest nights, the stars become our guiding lights; trust in your own guiding light.”

“In the darkest abyss, lies the birthplace of your brightest transformation.”

“Stars cannot shine without darkness, and you are destined to illuminate the world.”

“When you feel lost in the shadows, remember that every shadow is cast by light.”

These quotes are OK and put some words around the hope we see illuminated in the darkness. But they don’t catch the whole drift. They’re not picking up the whole enchilada I’m trying to throw down here.

Thank goodness for Sister Joan Chittister, bad a** nun and author of “The Gift of Years.” Her musing from a recent newsletter brings it all taco-ther.

“Only the experience of our own darkness gives us the light we need to be of help to others whose journey into the dark spots of life is only just beginning. It’s then that our own

By Susanna Barton

taste of darkness qualifies us to be an illuminating part of the human expedition. Without that, we are only words, only false witnesses to the truth of what it means to be pressed to the ground and rise again. Darkness is a mentor of what it means to carry the light we ourselves have brought to blaze into the unknown parts of life so that others may also see and take hope,” Chittister wrote.

This isn’t a holy-roller or religious concept either–it’s a way of the universe thing, a calling of our humanity maybe. I think the lights we see when we’re on our backs–in the pit in our I’ve-fallen-and-I-can’t-get-up distress–are not just helpers and angels and do-gooders. They’re night lights showing us where to go next. It’s our job to get back up, dust ourselves off and figure out how that terrible, no good, very bad thing equipped us to move forward and help others. That, I think, is how we find our life purpose–in the darkness, when we’re in despair, wondering what the actual what. That’s when we start seeing lights that say, “Hey you! There’s a door opening, come check it out! This way–over here!”

I know, ho, ho, ho. Very Christmas-y and enlightening.

Sorry, not sorry, I’m going to keep going, this is too important–like Clark Griswald’s Jelly of the Month bonus, it may just be the gift that keeps on giving! Maybe this is one of those reasons for the seasons even. Remember the Wise Men, those We Three Kings we like to sing about this time of the year? They followed a star and look what transpired–good, transformational things started happening for them and their fellow humans.

When terrible, no good, very bad things happen to us, it’s a calling to transform it into something much better with the unique superpowers we’ve been given. I’ll use myself as an example. For the past few years, I’ve been wondering how the HECK I got into gerontology and so seamlessly followed a path toward a master’s degree and life after. Why did I care so much about getting older adults prepared for life’s second half? Why would I even bother with this stuff? Why am I not on a Bahamian island, leathered and smoking cigarettes, sipping rum drinks and reading trash fiction?

I answered my own question when I took a quick inventory of my lowest darkest over the last few decades: the death of my mom and grandparents 30 years ago; a really traumatizing remote caregiving situation for an older couple that lasted way, way too long; and the unexpected passing of my dad, who had always been my big light in the darkness. What do all these things have in common? Parental loss and older adults. Death. Suckage. Stress and despair. A lot of total yuck! And guess what: All the open doors that have followed in my pursuit of gerontology studies (the topic on which I wrote last month) have come when I took what I learned from those experiences and worked to show others through it. The well-paved paths are revealed when you go through a terrible no good thing, learn from it and pass it on. The pass-it-on part is where our purpose is, in my very humble opinion.

As I write this, I still think of all the parents and families who lost loved ones in the Guadalupe River flooding last summer in Texas. All the sweet Camp Mystic girls–all the folks in their happy place who lost their lives in an instant. I wonder how their families will turn this around. What good will come from such devastation? Who will be blessed by this terrible loss?

I think, too, of people like the Haramis family, who turned their daughter’s tragic death into new support for people who have lost loved ones and need help with funeral arrangements through Angels for Allison. I also think about the many nonprofit groups and organizations who have taken pain and turned it into hope–there are too many to list! I think about my friend, Laura, who lost two children and has turned their legacy into a scholarship fund that gives students new ways to thrive. I think about the origin of The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital, which was founded by a grieving parent seeking better healthcare opportunities for children in Northeast Florida.

We all go through horror in our lives. And at least once or twice–and in some really sad and unthinkable cases, time and time again–we find ourselves flat on our backs looking up at the heavens wondering how in the world this happened and how we got there. Look for the light. Look for the lessons. Try out the new superpowers this unimaginable experience made manifest. Then get up and use your newfound strengths with all the trust and hope you can muster–and be grateful for it! This is where the healing happens. This is where the doors open and our true life purpose begins.

May your holidays be merry and very, very bright!

Susanna Barton likes holiday shows but prefers to watch true-crime reruns like “Dateline” and “48 Hours” to sharpen her contingency planning skills. A Granada resident, Barton has written professionally for The Jacksonville Business Journal, The Resident and The Bolles School. She currently manages an online community called Grand Plans, which encourages healthy conversations about aging and preparing for it on www.mygrandplans.com

SandyTraceyandArpen

By Jennifer Jensen

Even though Sandy and Tracey Arpen retired more than 10 years ago, their calendar remains full.

“Our occupation now is volunteering and traveling,” Tracey said.

“And doting on the grandkids,” Sandy added.

The high school sweethearts who met in band at Dupont High School have always given back to their community in some way, but it wasn’t until they were retired that they could truly devote their time to that work.

“We do a lot of nonprofit volunteer work, which we feel is very important,” Sandy said.

“When we look at our calendar at the end of the month, it’s full,” Tracey added.

Tracey believes his passion for helping the community grew during the 14 years he spent working at a local law firm that emphasized community involvement. During that time, he was involved with Jacksonville Community Council, Greenscape of Jacksonville and Leadership Jacksonville.

He also formed an organization with a few others called Citizens Against the Proliferation of Signs, which eventually became Scenic Jacksonville. They spearheaded a drive to pass a billboard referendum, collecting more than 18,000 signatures in one day to put it on the ballot. It passed with overwhelming support and banned all new billboards in the city. After that, he was approached about a job with the City of Jacksonville and he accepted the position as deputy general counsel. He defended the billboard charter amendment and became head of land use and environmental law.

Tracey retired in 2008 and currently sits on several boards, including Greenscape of Jacksonville, Scenic Jacksonville, Scenic Florida, Stetson Kennedy Foundation and the Southern Academy of Letters Arts and Sciences.

Sandy was a stay-at-home mom to their two children, Matt and Kate, when they were young, though she also led a Girl Scout troop from daisies through high school and taught Lamaze classes around town. Once their children grew older, Sandy worked for Humana Health Insurance as a maternal-child case manager. She retired in 2009 and served as the volunteer executive director of the Mandarin Museum for 12 years.

“I absolutely loved it, but it was a fulltime job, pretty much,” she said.

Tracey and Sandy were charter members of the museum and have strong ties to the area, living in the same house Tracey grew up in before moving to San Jose. Their son and his family live there now.

“It’s been in the family since 1923,” Tracey said.

Sandy now sits on the board of the Mandarin Museum. She hosts tours, oversees the archives, and helps with many of the events held on the 10-acre property. “It’s what I’m passionate about,” she said.

Tracey added, “She’s still one of the faces of the museum.”

When they aren’t busy volunteering, they love to travel.

The last big trip they took was with their granddaughter, Gracie. They spent time in London, Paris, Colmar and Switzerland.

“She loves the outdoors, and we just hiked and hiked and hiked,” Sandy said. “We’re fortunate our health allows us to do that.”

“We were able to almost keep up with our granddaughter in Switzerland,” Tracey added. “She’d skip on ahead of us, but we did it.”

Switzerland has become one of their favorite destinations, and they have visited several times. They’ve traveled mostly around Europe, Canada and the United States. They estimate they have visited almost 20 different countries.

They are thankful they are not only financially able to travel, but also health-wise.

“You’ve got to do it while you can do it, because a lot of our friends can’t do it anymore,” Sandy said.

The next overseas trip they have planned is to Ireland. While they have been there before, this time they are looking into Tracey’s family roots. They have already found where the family lived and which church they attended.

“I found the parish where my greatgrandfather was baptized and where his parents were married,” Tracey said.

“We’re going to go back there and attend service at the same church.”

They also enjoy combining their love for travel with their love for their grandchildren. Instead of Christmas gifts, they give their grandchildren trips.

“They already have so much stuff,” Sandy said. “So instead, they’re building memories.”

They plan to take their youngest grandson, Will, to the Space Center soon, and they recently took the oldest grandson, Eli, to Pensacola and the

Florida Caverns State Park. They also plan to take the two on individual trips before their senior year of high school, just as they did with Gracie.

“We’re not youngsters, but we’re going to keep doing it as long as we can,” Tracey said.

Nature’s Beauty Abounds in JaxParks Mural

Salty Soirée Celebrates Conservation and Community Spirit

There is no rest for the weary when one is as creative as Marsha Hatcher and Lisa Lofton. Besides speaking engagements and having art exhibits all over Jacksonville and beyond, these two dynamos just completed a 10-foot-by-90-foot mural on the fourth floor of the Ed Ball Building in Downtown Jacksonville – in just seven and a half days.

City of Jacksonville’s JaxParks commissioned the mural, designed by Lofton, for its offices.

Hatcher and Lofton, assisted by fellow artist Annelies Dykgraaf, spent hours each day climbing ladders to finish the stunning tribute to Jacksonville’s parks, with flowing waves as a background.

Visual representations of noted Jacksonville parks and landmarks fill each letter in “Jax Parks,” including Hannah Park, Artist Walk, Balis Park, Treaty Oak, Tilly Fowler Park, Memorial Park and Friendship Fountain.

“While the mural focuses on the theme of Jacksonville parks, we hope it sparks curiosity and encourages viewers to explore and cherish these community assets,” said Hatcher. “Through this piece, we wanted to evoke feelings of peace, admiration, and inspiration, reminding us all of the importance of preserving and enjoying our local green spaces. Ultimately, this mural aims to contribute positively to the workspace environment by introducing elements of the natural world that uplift and motivate those who see it.”

North Florida Land Trust’s Salty Soirée fundraising event raised $70,000 to support the organization’s continued conservation work in Northeast Florida.

The event was held on Amelia Island on Oct. 30 to celebrate Jack and Kathleen Thornton’s donation of 388 acres next to Fort Clinch State Park, which was made to NFLT late last year. The Thorntons were among 170 guests who gathered to celebrate NFLT and recognize the Thorntons’ generous gift, which will help “protect the state park and ensure this land will remain in its natural state.”

This event is anticipated to become an annual NFLT celebration. The event committee consisted of Janyce and Mark Dawkins, Randy and Allison DeFoor, Becky and Tommy Grimes, Pam and Joe Hart, Cynthia Jones-Jackson, Connie and Ken McDaniel, Lyn Pannone and Steve Nadeau and Sally and Tony Perez.

Celebrating Community and Fellowship

The student-run Community Service Council at Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s Munnerlyn Campus hosted students from North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) for a fall festival on Thursday, Oct. 30.

Fifty high schoolers from NFSSE attended the festival, participating in fan-favorite

activities, including face painting, arts and crafts, and field games. Students also got to decorate Crumbl cookies and participate in a costume contest. Episcopal students were paired with an NFSSE buddy to ensure everyone felt welcome and part of the community. The evening wrapped up with trick-or-treating and a “costume call out.”

LaVilla Chamber Orchestra Selected for 2026 National Orchestra Festival

The LaVilla School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra has been selected to travel to California to perform at the 2026 American String Teachers Association National Orchestra Festival.

“This honor is a testament to the remarkable talent and work ethic of our young artists,” said Carol Maynard. “They are extraordinary representatives of both LaVilla and

our wider Jacksonville arts community.”

In celebration of this prestigious invitation, the orchestra was recognized at the Nov. 4 Duval County Public Schools Board meeting, where they performed live for board members and meeting attendees.

The festival will take place in San Francisco next February.

Rejoice! The season of hope and joy is near!

Alive with ‘The Sound of Music’ Bolles Junior Raises $250K to Support Jacksonville’s Unhoused Families

Family Promise of Jacksonville is recognizing Bolles junior Lachlan Lovett for her steadfast efforts to raise funds for Cardboard City, its annual fundraising event.

To date, Lovett has raised $250,000 since she began participating in the event in 2023, making her the event’s single largest fundraiser, proving that “Gen Z is passionate about making an impact.”

“One characteristic of Gen Z is being dedicated to social issues,” said Family Promise of Jacksonville Executive Director Beth Mixson. “We are beyond grateful for Lachlan’s passion and her success. Her dedication will change the lives of families experiencing homelessness. It’s extraordinary what she has accomplished.”

of “The Sound of Music,” held at the Bolles

Bolles students Victoria Soares and Cyrus Vaghefi captivated audiences as Maria Rainer and Captain Georg Von Trapp in The Bolles School’s production of “The Sound of Music.”

The three-day run of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic took place at Parker Auditorium on the Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus from Nov. 13 to 15. Laura Rippel, Bolles director of fine and performing arts, directed the performance, which was accompanied by a live orchestra led by Bolles Choral Director Dr. Julian Bryson.

The 15th annual Cardboard City event took place on Saturday, Nov. 15, with 300 participants building cardboard structures they then spent the night in, completing the Social Service Maze as well. This night provides an immersive experience for participants, giving them a glimpse at how families experience homelessness in Duval County.

Lovett raised $130,600 for the 2025 event.

“It’s important to bring people in my generation together so they can see how they can raise money and impact people experiencing homelessness in Jacksonville,” said Lovett. “I got involved with Family Promise because we are both passionate about helping people experiencing homelessness to find stability and have a brighter future.”

According to Family Promise of Jacksonville, more than 3,400 students within Duval County Public Schools are unhoused.

Math Meets the NFL

Fifth graders at Riverside Presbyterian Day School wrapped up their “Tackling Decimals” math unit with a surprise visit from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“Tackling Decimals” is a unit that incorporates real-world sports data into its learning. Throughout the football season, students have analyzed game statistics to understand percentages, decimals, and problem-solving better.

Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun made a special guest appearance to recognize all their hard work, awarding trophies to class winners and sharing advice on the importance of hard work and dedication on and off the field.

Episcopal Hosts Sessions to Help Parents Support Teens Through College Stress

Parents of ninth through twelfth graders at Episcopal School of Jacksonville attended two sessions discussing ways to support their teenagers amid the stressors surrounding college searches and other factors facing teens today.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Director of Health Safety and Well-Being Programming Dr. Elise Fallucco led the sessions for “Upper School Stress: Reframing the College Search and Promoting Well-Being Along the Way,” which featured Director of College Counseling Julie Carter, Associate Director of College Counseling May Ibasco and Director of Student Services Amy Burrows Perkins.

Topics discussed included ways to help students develop strong senses of identity outside of cultural messages suggesting their

Cross-Country Kudos

worth is based on numbers – social media followers or likes, GPA, college acceptances, SAT scores – as well as the importance of adequate sleep and exercise and parents’ unconditional acceptance, focusing on students’ mental health. The panel also discussed the importance of creating a stress “toolkit” with positive coping strategies.

Assumption Catholic School’s boys’ and girls’ cross-country team.

Assumption Catholic School is celebrating its boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams for their impressive performance at the Florida Middle School State Championships last month.

The teams competed against 22 teams and more than 200 runners at the championships, which took place on Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1. The girls’ team, comprised of Bizzy H., Ceci S.,

Livy S., Hadley D., Claire E., and Valerie C., earned seventh place overall. The boys’ team – Ian P., Jackson L., Max H., Andrew H., Luke K., Park S., Sebi C., Lucas C., Maxi C. and Santi C. – placed sixth, with Jackson L. also earning recognition as a Top 20 finisher with his 16th place overall finish.

Limitless Opportunities

Opportunity is more than access—it’s skillfully guided growth.

Our faculty and staff are masters of creating a culture where students thrive and achieve excellence. Here, opportunity lives in every corner: in classrooms, on stages, in labs, on fields and in studios. Students are immersed in academics, the fine arts, athletics and activities that expand their opportunities today, so more things are possible tomorrow.

Crusaders Clinch Fourth State Championship in Five Years

For the fourth time in five years, the Bishop Kenny High School boys’ swim team has brought home the state championship.

The boys competed in the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 2A State Championship on Nov. 7 in Ocala, edging out Belen Jesuit and Mater Lakes Academy with an accumulated 244.5 points to take the victory.

Senior Carter Wright earned two individual victories in the 50 freestyle and 100 backstroke. Wright is the most decorated swimmer in Bishop Kenny history, with five individual state titles, six relay titles and three team championships. At Bishop Kenny’s signing ceremony last month, he committed to the University of Alabama to continue his academic and athletic careers.

“It takes an incredible amount of teamwork and discipline to reach these heights,” said Head Coach Laurel Valley. “I’m so proud of what our athletes have accomplished together.”

A Nifty 50 Celebration

First graders at Assumption Catholic School partied like it was the 1950s to celebrate the “Nifty 50th Day of School.”

Students donned their best 50s-inspired outfits – from poodle skirts to leather jackets – for the festivities, held on Oct. 24, slicking back their hair and accessorizing with their brightest smiles. The day included fun-filled, on-theme activities, including learning centers, snacks and other creative activities.

Bolles Marks National Signing Day with 28 College Commitments

The Bolles School recognized and honored 28 of its student-athletes in a signing ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 12 as they signed letters of intent to pursue their

and academic futures on a collegiate level. Bolles Athletic Director Rock Pillsbury opened the ceremony, inviting coaches to introduce their respective athletes.

The bleachers in the Davis Gym at the San Jose campus were packed with friends and families, joined by Bolles faculty and coaches, as the following seniors committed to their futures:

Baseball:

Rylan Baker, University of Central Florida

Women’s Basketball:

Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University (also track and field)

Men’s Lacrosse:

Greer Boree, Yale University

Will Martell, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Jayden Mitchell, Florida Institute of Technology

Ty Teschner, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Cam Zielinski, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Women’s Lacrosse:

Anna Giordano, University of Oregon

Men’s Soccer:

Hudson Drum, College of Charleston

Men’s Swimming and Diving:

Ethan Bathala, Duke University

Liam Carrington, North Carolina State University

George Dovellos, Harvard University

Michael Gumino, U.S. Military Academy

Krish Jain, Columbia University

Louis Joos, Yale University

Nicholas Kwan, University of Georgia

Clay Magyar, Florida State University

Lucas Young, University of Michigan

Charles Zuhoski, Duke University

Women’s Swimming and Diving:

Victoria Edgar, Princeton University

Ella Gotham, Liberty University

Marleigh Howes, McGill University

Lucero Mejia Arce, Indiana University

Riley Miller, University of Cincinnati

Ainsley Stephan, University of Wisconsin

Elizabeth Stewart, U.S. Military Academy

Women’s Track and Field:

Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University also basketball

Terrell McCoy, University of Illinois

Women’s Triathlon:

Samantha Perry, University of Denver

Building Bonds Across Generations at Her Heart Gardens

Assumption Catholic School staff and eighth graders spent the day with residents at Her Heart Gardens Retirement Home in Fort Caroline on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Students and residents alike were all smiles as they played bingo and shared handmade crafts created by the students. The afternoon was filled with love and new memories, serving as a joyful reminder of the importance of building heartfelt connections across generations.

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.

December 4 and 5

CHAMPAGNE AND SHOPPING

The Cummer of Art and Gardens 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Free

December 4-7

49TH ANNUAL FIRST COAST DESIGN SHOW

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center Cost: Free booth crawl, $15 general admission Added fees for lectures and events

December 5-19

DECK THE SQUARE

San Marco Square | $1

December 5 and 6

SAN MARCO TREE

LIGHTING CEREMONY

Balis Park | 6 to 6:30 p.m. | Free

Dec. 5

CHRISTMAS IN AVONDALE

Shoppes of Avondale 5 to 9 p.m. | Free

December 6

30TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 5K

San Marco Square | 5 and 5:30 p.m. | $45

December 6

HOLIDAY MAGIC

San Marco Square | 5 to 8:30 p.m. | Free

December 7

4TH ANNUAL JACKSONVILLE HOLLY JOLLY COMMUNITY EVENT

Northbank Riverwalk Artist Square 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Free

EC 2 7-2 8

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

Center

December 14

ORTEGA VILLAGE HOLIDAY MARKET

Cortez Park | 11 a.m to 3 p.m. | Free

December 20

RUN SANTA RUN 5K Klutho Park | $50

December 20

SAN MARCO LUMINARIA

San Marco | Dusk | Free

December 21

RIVERSIDE AVONDALE PRESERVATION’S 41ST ANNUAL LUMINARIA

Riverside and Avondale | Dusk | Free

5,000 Years of Civilization Reborn

Shen Yun is a brilliant artistic revival and celebration of China’s rich cultural heritage. But after decades of communist rule, much of this divinely inspired culture has been lost.

Now, ancient legends and timeless virtues come alive on stage, preserving the essence of a civilization that has endured for millennia. With every performance, Shen Yun conveys the extraordinary depth and breadth of genuine Chinese culture, bringing the magnificence of 5,000 years of civilization vividly back to life.

Classical Chinese Dance

Poetry in motion, where every gesture tells a story

Stunning Costumes

Exquisite designs carry you through dynasties past

A Unique Orchestra Eastern and Western instruments masterfully woven into captivating original scores

Picturesque Backdrops Immersive scenes sweep you away to magical realms

Myths & Legends

Timeless stories that stir the soul and spark the imagination

The Experience Journey through millennia of traditional Chinese culture in a spectacular two-hour performance

DECEMBER 27TH AT 7:30 PM

DECEMBER 27TH AT 7:30 PM

BILL GAY GROUNDS AT EVERBANK STADIUM

BILL GAY GROUNDS AT EVERBANK STADIUM