San Marco: Resident February 2026

Changes Coming to St. Augustine Road

Changes that could affect daily commutes, school traffic and pedestrian crossings are planned for St. Augustine Road as the city moves forward with a road diet.

The School Board approved the sale of long-vacant district land near Julia Landon Middle School for $173,750, paving the way for future redevelopment.

Clears Sale of Surplus Land Elyce Arons Talks Fashion Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary opens its year with annual general meeting and breakfast at Epping Forest. Members Mary Love Strum, Diane Lott, Debbie Veale, Deborah DeFoor and Marilyn Carpenter kicked off the year with a powerful guest speaker, stable financials and a big year of fundraising ahead.

Underwood Jewelers to Bring a ‘Showplace’ to San Marco Square

Interior and exterior renovation plans will bring a “crown jewel” to the south end of San Marco Square as Underwood Jewelers prepares for extensive updates to its store on San Marco Boulevard. While exterior updates include a new façade and new landscaping, interior designs call for a new showroom space as corporate offices move to its Avondale location.

MOSH Building Set for Demolition After DIA Board Approval

Demolition estimated at $835,000

Five months after the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) closed its doors for the last time at its Southbank location, the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) Board approved the demolition of its former building.

At the Jan. 21 board meeting, DIA Director of Operations Guy Parola shared an update with board members regarding the declined status of the vacated building following a recent tour of the building.

“What we didn’t find was a building that’s ready to be turned over to another user,” Parola said. “What we did find were roof leaks and deferred maintenance and things that, frankly, go with an older building.”

Guiding Hands, Rising Stars

Seventeen rising professionals took the spotlight as the Hightower Emerging Leadership Fellowship celebrated its Class IX graduates at its annual gala in January.

A Duval County judge has granted class action status in a lawsuit alleging industrial odors are affecting property values and quality of life in nearby neighborhoods. The ruling marks a key procedural step as the case moves forward.

In Memoriam

Ariel Alberto Montero Valera

Ariel Alberto Montero Valera passed away on December 25, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 21. He was born in Camagüey, Cuba, where he completed his secondary education, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was a noble, healthy young man, full of life. He loved simple things: playing sports and video games with his friends and cousins, talking with his grandparents, playing chess and going to the gym, trading and fishing, and spending time with his mother.

In the United States, he studied English, had a girlfriend, worked and lived life to the fullest. When he was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Multiforme Grade 4 – the most aggressive and malignant type of primary brain tumor – he faced his illness with quiet courage. Even amid pain, he maintained a dignity and strength that moved everyone close to him.

His family – especially his mother – was always his center. In her, he found refuge, love, and constant companionship.

He departed after a hard battle. His death was not a defeat; it was an unjust ambush.

“Arielito will live forever in our memories, in every gesture of kindness he planted, in every embrace left pending, and in every prayer raised for his eternal rest,” said his father, Luis Perdomo. “His absence hurts, but his love remains. Forever in our hearts. Forever loved.”

businesses, our staff is more than coworkers, we are family. In the newspaper business, long hours and constant deadlines create deep bonds, and over the years, Luis, Ariel, and his mother Gretel became part of our Resident News family.

Ariel was known for his kind spirit and his beautiful, unforgettable smile. His passing is deeply felt by all of us, and he will be remembered with love, gratitude, and quiet sorrow. He will be dearly missed.

The plastic barricades at Riverside’s Memorial Park have become a familiar sight following the devastating destruction Hurricane Idalia wrought on the concrete balustrade bordering the park, just two years after the City restored them from damage sustained by Hurricane Irma. A recent car accident caused additional damage to the concrete and plastic barricades at the end of Margaret Street. When can residents expect repairs and restoration to begin?

In a word: Soon.

According to Memorial Park Association President Brooks Dame, repairs and restorations are expected to begin this spring.

The City of Jacksonville Public Works Department will oversee this restoration project. Dame said this restoration will be an improved effort after the then-newly-restored balustrade sustained by Hurricane Idalia in 2023.

“What the City found when they went in and investigated was that the bulkhead that they had installed the replacement balustrades on was faulty and needs to be repaired,” Dame said. “So essentially, we put a great balustrade on a terrible foundation. So this time, they’re going to do it right: They’re going to go in, do that foundation work, and then put a balustrade back in so that it has a chance of being that lasting infrastructure that we expect in a park of this magnitude and historical significance.”

According to the City of Jacksonville Public Works Department, the construction on the bulkhead and balustrade is expected to last approximately one year, with work on the latter beginning towards the end of that timeline. JB Coxwell is completing this $8.6 million project.

Memorial Park Association is planning a public meeting this month to answer questions and set expectations for area residents regarding what to expect during the project’s construction period. A date for the meeting has not yet been set. Resident News will provide updates as they become available.

Resident News Seeks Nominations for Young Independents

Nominate the next ones to watch

is once again producing our

“Young Independents” feature, which celebrates rising young adults who are building careers, businesses and community impact on their own terms.

We are currently seeking nominations for exceptional young men and women who live or work in the neighborhoods. These individuals may be entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, nonprofit leaders, volunteers or emerging changemakers who demonstrate independence, ambition and integrity.

We are especially interested in discovering new faces and ensuring this feature reflects the diversity of our community across backgrounds, industries and experiences.

Be making notable progress or impact in their field

Demonstrate leadership, initiative or community involvement

If you know someone who would be a great fit, please send their name, a brief description of why you are nominating them and their contact information

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Judge Grants Class Action Status in IFF Odor Lawsuit

Procedural ruling advances case filed by affected residents

Duval County Circuit Judge Robert Dees granted class action status in a significant procedural win for the plaintiffs in a lawsuit against International Flavors and Fragrances.

Dees’ ruling was filed on Jan. 13. The lawsuit, first filed in January 2022, alleges IFF emits odors that are negatively impacting plaintiffs’ property values and quality of life.

“It was a long-awaited ruling,” said attorney Laura Sheets, who represents the plaintiffs. “We’ve been pushing for this for a few years.” Sheets is a partner at Detroit-based Liddle Sheets P.C., which, alongside Mitchell Stone P.A., represents the plaintiffs.

IFF shared a statement on the ruling with Resident News , which read:

“We are disappointed with the outcome of the decision. The judge’s ruling is not on the merits of the case, rather it is a procedural ruling about how the case may move forward. IFF will continue to vigorously defend itself against the plaintiffs’ claims, and expects to appeal this order.”

The statement continued:

“IFF is committed to operating safely, responsibly and in full compliance with all environmental regulations. As a responsible community partner, we employ best-inclass technologies and processes to prevent odors from leaving our facility, and we work collaboratively with the City of Jacksonville. Data from the City’s own odor

TO THE EDITOR Letters

Editor’s note: Although centered on the Herschel corridor, this letter is published in the San Marco–San Jose edition as similar traffic and safety issues impact multiple area neighborhoods.

As I drive my children to school in the morning, I see my neighbors hold their children’s hands on their walk to Fishweir Elementary. I wave at a friend running from Ortega. Commuters gesture others into the roundabout on their way to work. We are all coming from different neighborhoods but we are utilizing the Herschel corridor, which is a gateway from Ortega to Avondale.

For nearly a decade, my husband and I have raised our children in Fairfax Manor. We have been involved in the positive evolution of this neighborhood: We saw

the transformation of the dilapidated Commander apartments into Rivervue, witnessed the dredging of Fishweir Creek from our backyard and have enjoyed many of the new restaurants and businesses on the Herschel corridor.

study, as well as numerous declarations from residents in Murray Hill, confirms what we’ve stated repeatedly: that IFF is not the source for the increased odor complaints in Jacksonville.”

Sheets said a reversal of the Dees’ class certification ruling wouldn’t deter the plaintiffs’ lawsuit, however.

No matter what, we’re going forward with this case. – Laura Sheets, Partner, Liddle Sheets P.C.

“No matter what, we’re going forward with this case,” Sheets said. “It was one of the things that I had tried to really impress upon the judge during the class certification hearing. Defendants oftentimes think that if we lose that motion, that we’ll pack up and go home because we only have three clients retained, and that is not the case, as we said on the record and publicly during the hearing.”

Moving forward, plaintiffs’ counsel have 30 days to submit a proposed notice for court approval to provide notice to the class. This notice must also be agreed upon by opposing counsel, explained Sheets.

The recent introduction of the two roundabouts has undeniably increased safety and efficiency, but they are full of weeds and sign poles, and are in desperate need of beautification. Currently, the Herschel corridor lacks continuity and vision; it is an area that serves its purpose for traffic flow but fails the people who live, work and learn there. While the area has modernized, it has not yet achieved the standard of beauty and cohesion that this gateway from Ortega through Fairfax to Riverside Avondale deserves.

The good news is that a Roundabout Task Force, consisting of representatives from the adjacent neighborhoods of Fairfax Manor, Ortega, Lakeside Park and Avondale, has been formed and is hosted by the nonprofit Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP).

I am volunteering on this task force and our vision is to unify the two roundabouts connecting the corridor with public art, trees and landscaping and overall cleanup and beautification.

We believe that this corridor should be filled with color and creativity, not neglect. We hope to find ways to reduce visual clutter while also maintaining safety. By unifying this space with trees, art and a higher standard of care, we can create a visual entrance to our community that we can all be proud of.

The project is not without obstacles, and this is why your voice is so important. Unlike many city roundabout projects, this corridor requires both City of Jacksonville and FDOT approvals. But first, it needs planning, funding and community support. We are looking for neighbors and businesses to join us –both from an advocacy and financial standpoint – to ensure this project reflects our collective pride.

The task force is planning to host an upcoming community meeting to present our initial findings and get input from the community. We are at the early stages where input is most beneficial. The community meeting date and time information and updates will be posted at riversideavondale.org/. This initiative requires collaboration and partnership. Working together, we can get this done.

Warm regards,

Stephanie

Freeman Roundabout Task Force Member

Proposed Road Diet Targets High-Crash Stretch of St. Augustine Road

By Michele Leivas

The City of Jacksonville is hoping to address major traffic and roadway safety concerns for the St. Augustine Road traffic corridor with a road diet later this fall.

Residents and neighbors had the opportunity to review proposed roadway updates for the busy traffic corridor at a public meeting hosted by District 5 City Councilmember Joe Carlucci at San Jose

Elementary School on Thursday, Jan. 15.

The City of Jacksonville Traffic and Engineering Department is planning a road diet for a two-mile stretch of St. Augustine Road from University Boulevard to Emerson Street, converting the four, undivided lanes to three lanes: one in each direction with a center lane for vehicles to turn left into the commercial spaces on

either side of the road.

To address traffic congestion during school drop-off and pick-up hours, dedicated turn lanes will be designated for buses and vehicles accessing the school, without impacting through traffic in either direction. Additionally, a raised median island will be installed to allow pedestrians to cross St. Augustine Road at the school’s

entrance safely. Other updates will include new ADA curb ramps for pedestrians, upgraded crosswalk markings and raised medians at school zone entrances.

According to City of Jacksonville Traffic Studies Engineer Lee Durban, approximately 11,500 vehicles travel this roadway daily. Matt Fall, the bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for the City of Jacksonville, added that St. Augustine Road is identified as a “high crash route” for vehicles, pedestrians, motorcycles and

cyclists. A crash history shared with meeting attendees indicated that the study area has seen 256 crashes in the last five years, including five pedestrian and four bicycle crashes, and one fatal crash. Eighty-four percent of these crashes occurred during the day.

Durban said the road diet should help reduce that crash rate by nearly half.

“We expect there will be about a 47% crash reduction,” Durban said. “That’s all types of crashes.”

Because this project will be rolled into the routine road resurfacing scheduled for St. Augustine Road later this fall, COJ Chief of Traffic and Engineering Chris LeDew said the cost is minimal. This also means it does not have to go through the standard approval process, however it would be done “through consensus.”

“We’re taking this opportunity to make a positive safety change for very little money,” LeDew told meeting attendees. “Part of the reason we’re here tonight is to gain consensus from the public. If the council person does not want it, we’re not going to force it.”

LeDew, however, added his strong support for the project.

“As chief of traffic engineering, I think it is an

excellent idea,” LeDew said. “I think it is one of the best safety improvements that we can do as traffic engineers. I can tell you this: Fourlane undivided roads have the highest crash rate of any kind of road we have in the state of Florida, so getting rid of them is a high priority.”

The road diet received mixed reviews, with some attendees claiming these upgrades wouldn’t address the range of issues they see on the roadway daily, including those stemming from the busy intersection at University Boulevard just down the road from the school and from drivers cutting through residential streets to bypass traffic.

Sol Lopez lives just across the street from the school on Community Road and sees firsthand the amount of speeding and traffic on her street as drivers cut through the area. She shared her thoughts with Carlucci and San Jose Elementary School Principal Jasmin Esparza Gomez before the meeting started.

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“I was letting them know that it would be beneficial –and it would really fix the issue – if they would do what they’re trying to do on St. Augustine Road, but they also add speed bumps on Community Road,” Lopez said. “Because what [drivers] are going to do is they’re going to continue cutting through Community Road, and that’s just going to increase our traffic.”

Troy Mayhew travels St. Augustine Road every day and said he liked what he saw in the road diet.

“The biggest thing for me is cars stopping in the left lane to turn left on St. Augustine Road,” Mayhew said. “I see it all the time, I drive it every day: Cars either not paying attention because everybody’s on their phone and they almost rear-end that person, or they jump right over into the right lane without looking. And I think that that four-lane [road] curb-to-curb with no buffer is really dangerous…I don’t see any downside to [the road diet].”

Following the meeting, LeDew said piggybacking this project onto the resurfacing already scheduled was lowhanging fruit that offered tremendous rewards.

“As far as the cost goes, we’re making very minor changes,” LeDew said. “Now, as far as the safety improvements – huge safety improvement. So, we see this as a big bang for the buck.”

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

DCPS to Sell Surplus Property Next to Landon Middle School

By Michele Leivas

The Duval County Public Schools Board approved the sale of district-owned surplus property located adjacent to Julia Landon College Preparatory Middle School.

JWB Real Estate Capital LLC is in the process of acquiring the property – located at the corner of Landon and Minerva avenues– from DCPS for $173,750. A land appraisal included in a report in the Jan. 6 DCPS board meeting agenda packet stated the parcel is appraised at $95,000.

DCPS District 3 Board Member Cindy Pearson said the District presented the sale as a “two-part win.”

“Obviously, we are realizing some cash from the sale, but also we will not be spending money to maintain that property,” Pearson said.

According to the report, the property in question – located at the corner of Landon and Minerva avenues – has been vacant and unutilized since the District acquired it in 1986 for $26,000.

At a Dec. 16 DCPS board workshop, Pearson informed board members that the developer planned to build two townhouses on the parcel; she added that the driveways for these townhomes will not open onto the road that is used as the middle school’s bus lane.

“What I was able to get assurance of is that the driveways will not open onto Minerva, which is a one-way street that also functions as the bus lane for the school,” Pearson later told Resident News. “And I would say it’s probably maybe more accurate that at certain

times of the day, Landon traffic will impact those homeowners more than the homeowners impact the traffic.”

Obviously, we are realizing some cash from the sale, but also we will not be spending money to maintain that property.

– Cindy Pearson

DCPS District 3 Board Member

Resident News reached out to JWB Real Estate Capital for any details regarding its plans for the parcel. In an e-mail dated Jan. 19, JWB Real Estate Capital CEO Adam Eisemen told Resident News that it was too early to share plans for the parcel.

“We can’t share any plans or information yet as it’s premature, as the deal is not closed,” Eisemen wrote. “JWB has 45 days of due diligence on this property, and until we are through and close on the property, JWB can’t share much more.”

MOSH Building Set for Demolition

Parola cited a structural report that described the building’s roof in “poor condition” in several different sections and, ultimately, stated demolition was the appropriate path forward.

“Since this is a redevelopment parcel, it doesn’t really seem like a great idea to put a band-aid on a building, just like you wouldn’t feed a dying animal,” Parola said.

When asked by DIA Board Vice Chair Sondra Fetner who was responsible for the building’s maintenance, Parola replied, “MOSH.”

Parola informed board members that demolition is estimated to cost $835,000, though DIA has allocated $875,000 to cover any additional and/or unexpected expenditures. Once the building is demolished, the parcel will serve as temporary overflow parking until the parcel is ready for redevelopment, and a notice of disposition can be issued.

Approval for the demolition did not have to go before the Jacksonville City Council, according to At-Large Group 4 City Councilmember Matt Carlucci.

Carlucci said the new development would likely be a commercial mixed-use with, he hopes, dining.

“We’ve got the river – there should be as much riverfront dining as we can have without compromising our riverfront parks,” Carlucci said.

District 5 City Councilmember Joe Carlucci echoed those sentiments, writing in a text message, “The deferred maintenance and repairs were past the point of restoration. I believe we can have a viable option there that makes the riverfront space even better.”

As one building prepares to come down, updates were made on the future home of MOSH on the Northbank as the DIA Board and City Council both approved performance schedule changes for the incoming building. According to the new schedule, the construction commencement date is pushed back to Sept. 1 of this year with a new substantial completion date of Jan. 30, 2029. The legislation, approved by the council at its Jan. 27 meeting, also allows for the DIA Board to grant a six-month extension on these deadlines without council approval.

Southbank Riverwalk Extension Moves Forward in Permitting Process

By Michele Leivas

Plans for an extension to the Southbank Riverwalk are underway as the City of Jacksonville progresses through the formal permitting process with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

City of Jacksonville Chief of Natural and Marine Resources Jill Enz presented plans for the extension at the Jan. 8 Downtown Development Review Board meeting.

Enz said that while design elements will match the existing Riverwalk, there will be some deviations.

“We have had a lot of lessons learned from the existing Riverwalk, so it’s going to be a much wider Riverwalk,” Enz said.

Connecting the Baptist Health campus

to the existing Riverwalk, this extension will be 17 feet wide and 1,200 feet long, ultimately linking up with the Fuller Warren Shared-Use Path where it descends on the San Marco side of the river.

According to the DDRB presentation, prepared by Haskell, “this riverwalk segment supports urban mobility, encourages economic activity, fixes the missing link in the Southbank Riverwalk system and fosters community engagement by activating underutilized riverfront space and promoting active transportation.”

This project is already fully funded through the City of Jacksonville’s Capital Improvement Plan, with $7.1

CELEBRATING

million allocated for the extension and enhancement.

DDRB Chair Linzee Ott expressed support and excitement for this extension, which comes on the heels of another Riverwalk extension recently completed at the RiversEdge development.

“Connection is key,” Ott said. “…I’m really excited to see this connection. I think that will serve patients and visitors of the hospital extremely well.”

Baptist Health Jacksonville shared the following statement about the project:

“We support the City of Jacksonville’s plan to extend the Riverwalk path behind the campus of Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. The initiative reflects our shared desire to encourage healthier lifestyles, and we believe the new pathway will have a positive impact on our patients, team members and community. We are working with the City to finalize the document that will enable the start of construction, and we are looking forward to seeing the project take shape.”

We’ve had a lot of lessons learned from the existing Riverwalk, so it’s going to be a much wider Riverwalk.

– Jill Enz Chief of Natural and Marine

Resources, City of Jacksonville

Connection is key. I’m really excited to see this connection. I think that will serve patients and visitors of the hospital extremely well.

– Linzee Ott Chair, Downtown Development Review Board

During public comment, Scenic Jacksonville Executive Director Nancy Powell praised the Parks Department for listening to community feedback on aspects of the Riverwalk extension, particularly shade and width, but expressed concerns about connectivity between certain riverfront landmarks.

“From a pedestrian standpoint, it’s a mess,” Powell said. “I really think that this part – those connectivity things –should be a project so that the Riverwalk can be connected and so people know how you get from here to there.”

“I don’t think people are going to go to this little segment,” Powell continued. “Maybe they will to see the sunset – that will be a nice place to see the sunset – but it doesn’t really go anywhere.”

Enz told DDRB members that once FDOT permitting is complete, the project will go into bid. Once construction begins, an estimated 18-month timeline is expected.

City Council Approves Sale of Historic Armory Building

By Fabrizio Gowdy

Reva Development Corporation, a Fort Lauderdale-based nonprofit, is planning to bring new life to Jacksonville’s Armory building.

The Jacksonville City Council voted unanimously to sell the historic building to the nonprofit at its Jan. 13 council meeting for $3.04 million.

Reva is acquiring the property at 851 N. Market St. with plans to invest $30 million in rehabbing the building, transforming it into a multi-use space with 20 restaurants, 25 art studios, 100 offices, a microbrewery and a performance stage. According to

According to Patterson, Reva has until now worked in the affordable housing space and focused on South Florida. This acquisition represents the organization’s first foray into North Florida and a project of this caliber. However, Patterson is confident Reva is up to the task, which will include removing asbestos from the building.

“We’ve got the benefit of a strong local contractor who’s actually gone through the property as well, all with the idea that we’re trying to determine if there are any

This ambitious project will help accelerate the renaissance of Downtown Jacksonville and the Springfield community. – Dr. Alan Bliss CEO, Jacksonville History Center

Reva, the project will generate more than 200 jobs.

According to Don Patterson, managing member for Armory Redevelopment Associates LLC, a Reva subsidiary, art will be a significant focus of the revamped space. The first floor will feature a listening room, which Patterson described as an intimate performance venue to host 50 to 80 patrons. Meanwhile, the second floor will center around the existing performance hall and its large stage.

“We intend to reactivate that for larger events, whether it’s performance art or music,” said Patterson.

surprises. And to this point, we think we’ve identified everything,” said Patterson.

Although the Armory experienced more than a foot of flooding during Hurricane Irma in 2017, Patterson also noted that he was not concerned about flooding, calling Irma an “unusual event.”

The bill regarding the sale of the Armory was initially introduced to the City Council last November by District 14 Councilman Rahman Johnson. In a statement, Johnson called the Armory a “crown jewel”. He reflected on his time spent in the building as a youth volunteer,

when it housed the Parks and Recreation Department and the Mayor’s Teen Volunteer program.

“This project represents opportunity,” said Johnson. “Opportunity to reactivate a long-dormant asset.”

History

According to historian and author Dr. Wayne Wood, Jacksonville has a history of private military organizations dating back to the 1830s. These groups included the Jacksonville Light Infantry, the St. Johns Grays, Jacksonville Rifles, and Duval

County Cowboys. These groups became more government-sanctioned at the turn of the century, and the Gothic revival-style Jacksonville Armory was built in 1916 to house them.

“The brickwork in this building is fantastic – the arch over the main door is some of the finest brickwork of that era, and the whole façade is a very cohesive symmetrical composition,” noted Wood.

In 1936, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt gave a speech at the Armory. In later years, the building’s sizable auditorium served as a music hall, hosting performances by Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Janis Joplin, and The Allman Brothers Band’s debut concert.

Perhaps most notable was Marian Anderson’s 1952 performance at the Armory. Anderson was a world-renowned opera singer. Anderson refused to sing in front of a segregated crowd, forcing the venue to integrate for the night. It was one of the few integrated shows to take place during the Jim Crow era.

The Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department occupied the Armory from the 1970s through 2010, but the building has now been vacant for more than 15 years.

Jacksonville History Center CEO Dr. Alan Bliss said renovating the Armory will highlight the way adaptive reuse of historically significant buildings contributes to Jacksonville’s identity and future economic development.

“This ambitious project will help accelerate the renaissance of Downtown Jacksonville and the Springfield community,” said Bliss.

Gateway Jax Advances Pearl Square with Fifth Groundbreaking

Gateway Jax continues its progress on the transformational Pearl Square development, breaking ground on 721 North Pearl Street. The groundbreaking took place on Jan. 21; this is the fifth groundbreaking for the Pearl Square neighborhood.

Formerly known as the N5 block of

Sisisky to Chair The Community Foundation Board of Trustees

Richard Sisisky has succeeded Michael DuBow as the new chairman of the board of trustees of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.

Sisisky has served on the board of The Community Foundation since 2017, during which time he also chaired the program related investments committee.

Sisisky is the president and owner of the Shircliff and Sisisky Company and has been an active member of Jacksonville’s civic community for more than 30 years, serving in leadership positions on numerous boards including those of Stein Mart, Inc., Baptist Health System Jacksonville, The Bolles School, WJCT, United Way of

Acosta Group’s Brian Wynne to Chair 2026 First Coast Heart Ball

Wynne,

The American Heart Association has announced Brian Wynne, president and CEO of Acosta Group, as the 2026 First Coast Heart Ball chair.

In this capacity, Wynne will spearhead efforts during the Heart Ball campaign to engage and involve community leaders, companies and individuals in discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge – the four chambers of AHA’s work.

“Over the past five years, Acosta Group has undergone a major transformation, and we’re now reengaging more intentionally with the Jacksonville community,” said Wynne. “Joining forces with an organization that has championed heart health for over a century is a responsibility I embrace with intention. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before me and stand alongside those committed to advancing this lifesaving mission.”

AHA, First Coast Executive Director Caitlin Brunell expressed her excitement for Wynne’s appointment as the 2026 chair.

“We are humbled to have Brian’s leadership at the forefront of this campaign,” said AHA, First Coast Executive Director Caitlin Brunell. “His compassion, energy and dedication toward our mission and community are palpable. We look forward to honoring and celebrating his impactful chairmanship at this year’s event.”

The Heart Ball campaign will culminate in the First Coast Heart Ball, scheduled for early March.

Northeast Florida, Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and the Jewish Foundation of Jacksonville.

In 1999, Sisisky was a Humanitarian Award recipient at the National Conference for Community and Justice. Later, in 2015, he was celebrated as the Florida Hospital Association Trustee of the Year.

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida Board also includes Carol J. Alexander, Martha Frye Baker, Dr. Solomon G. Brotman, Judge Brian J. Davis, George M. Egan, Michael Meyers, Velma Monteiro-Tribble, John Peyton, Lauren Rueger, Buddy Schulz, Amy Wacaster and Halsey Wise.

Sisisky will serve a two-year term in this leadership position.

Powell Announces Retirement from Scenic Jacksonville

After leading Scenic Jacksonville, Inc. as its executive director for more than six years, Nancy Powell will retire from the position this April.

Board President Bill Hoff made the announcement last month, adding that a search for Powell’s successor has begun and that the organization is preparing for a seamless transition to its next executive director.

“Nancy has been an amazing advocate for improving Jacksonville,” Hoff said. “Her strategic, yet passionate approach to the issues that matter has propelled both Scenic Jacksonville and our city forward.”

Nancy Powell

With Powell as its leader, Scenic Jacksonville expanded its annual Great Cities Symposium into a marquee event, drawing prominent city and civic leaders and stakeholders to hear insight and experiences from compelling speakers from several of Jacksonville’s peer cities.

In early 2020, Powell led efforts to form the Riverfront Parks Now coalition and chaired the RPN steering committee for the first four years, during which time the coalition grew to 14 nonprofit organizations.

Powell shared that plans for her retirement have been in the works within the organization since last summer.

“It’s been my honor to work with so many talented people – Scenic Jacksonville’s Board of Directors, city, civic and community leaders, and our dedicated Riverfront Parks Now coalition nonprofit organizations and members,” Powell said. “We’ve accomplished a lot. At the same time, I’m ready to pass the baton and look forward to seeing Scenic Jacksonville continue and grow its impact.”

A Place of Healing and Beauty

One of Lakewood’s newest businesses also doubles as a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and pampering women in their time of grief and illness.

Heather Johnson opened Isla Day Spa in November, building on the launch of Isla Mae Nonprofit for Women, a nonprofit day spa providing women with spa services and mental health support after a loss, miscarriage, illness, or cancer. A portion of the proceeds from Isla Day Spa supports the nonprofit.

“Our whole purpose is to give back,” said Johnson. “It’s not about raking in the dollars. It’s about seeing the person and them feeling good.”

Johnson was motivated to open the spa after struggling with secondary infertility and experiencing multiple miscarriages; Isla was the name of Johnson’s daughter, whom she lost in 2019. When her pastor began sending other couples who’d experienced miscarriages to her for counseling, she had a revelation.

“Over time I realized that this is something that happens a lot, and there’s really nowhere for anybody to go,” said Johnson.

Around the same time, Johnson also was inspired by her mother-in-law’s battle against cancer; she remembers how much getting her nails and hair done would lift her spirits.

“It all came together, that there could be healing in beauty, and that women needed a safe space to be pampered and loved on,” said Johnson.

The spacious spa offers clients a cozy and luxurious space. Services provided include head spas, facials and hair and nail services.

Isla Day Spa is located at 2319 University Boulevard West. It is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; Sunday is by appointment only.

LifeResultsChanging ResultsChanging

Underwood Jewelers to Bring a ‘Showplace’ to San Marco Square

By Fabrizio Gowdy and Michele Leivas

Underwood Jewelers is planning significant renovations for its San Marco location.

Permitting is currently underway for this interior and exterior renovation. San Marco-based JayCox Architects and Associates is part of the project’s design team, alongside interior designer Stephanie Maxey.

Nate Labagh, partner and principal with the architecture firm, said once permitting is complete, he anticipates a six- to eight-month construction period.

“What we wanted to do is give it a new face to the community, with it being at the end of San Marco Boulevard as you merge into Hendricks [Avenue] and head south,” Labagh said during a presentation at San Marco Merchants Association Jan. 28 general meeting. “We wanted it to be this new gateway as you enter the Square.”

The exterior renovations will encompass the entire street-front façade of the 9,000-square-foot building. Underwood Chairman Clayton Bromberg expressed his vision for the newly renovated building as a “showplace.”

“It’s going to be great for San Marco. There needs to be a crown jewel at this end of the Square, and we are glad to do it,” said Bromberg.

According to county records, Amo Corporation of Alabama, Inc. purchased the building last June for $4.86 million. Bromberg is the registered agent for Amo Corporation of Alabama, Inc. The building, originally built in 1955, sits on 0.34 acres at the intersection of San Marco Boulevard and Alford Place. The building also houses Sherwin-Williams, which is now a tenant of Underwood’s.

Underwood’s footprint will not change, but the showroom’s size in the roughly 5,000-square-foot space will increase as the company’s corporate offices move to its Avondale location. The store will remain open throughout the renovation.

According to Labagh, these updates will also include refreshed landscaping and the addition of two new ADA parallel parking spots.

Underwood’s opened its first store in Palatka in 1928 before establishing a location in Downtown Jacksonville in 1940. The San Marco branch opened in 1953, initially operating about a block from its current location in the Square. Its Avondale location, in the neighborhood’s vibrant commercial corridor on St. Johns Avenue, opened in the 1990s. The jewelry store has a third location in Ponte Vedra Beach.

Since moving into its current building in San Marco in 1992, Underwood’s has completed a few minor renovations, but this is the first major interior and exterior renovation project.

“It’s going to be a beautiful space,” said Michael Richards, who became president of Underwood’s in 2024. Richards told Resident News that Underwood’s has been planning its renovation “behind the scenes” for more than a year. Renovations, he added, had always been the plan. Leaving the Square was never considered.

Underwood’s is more than a jewelry store: Over the years, it has established itself as a partner within the philanthropic community as well. Richards said the company has been involved with numerous charities, including Pink Ribbon Jax, for which it is a founding sponsor. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing free mammograms to under- or uninsured people in Jacksonville. Last November, associates at Underwood’s Ponte Vedra Beach location continued that legacy, presenting Pink Ribbon Jax with a check for $390,000.

“We have been involved with Pink Ribbon since the first year they had the golf tournament,” Richards said. “We do it because it is the right thing to do for our community.”

Three Tapped to Join Ronald McDonald House

Jacksonville Board of Directors

Three new leaders – Karen Mayfield, Jennifer Mayo and Drew Schrimsher – have joined the Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville Board of Directors.

As managing director and senior wealth advisor of Truist Financial, Mayfield brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services and a longstanding commitment to organizations that uplift women, children and local communities. Mayo is a former cardiovascular intensive care nurse and longtime community volunteer. She has years of active engagement with several nonprofits in Northeast Florida, with a focus on health and human services; Schrimser is president and publisher of the Jacksonville Business Journal and a veteran media executive with more than 10 years of leadership in several American City Business Journals markets.

“We are thrilled to welcome Karen, Jennifer and Drew to our Board of Directors,” said Joey Leik, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville. “Their leadership, compassion and shared commitment to families will strengthen our mission and help us continue providing a home filled with comfort and community for those who need it most.”

Baptist Health

Pajcic and Pajcic Earns Top Pro Bono Honor

The Law Firm of Pajcic and Pajcic was honored with the 2026 Law Firm Commendation for its pro bono services and contributions.

Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz awarded this prestigious award to the law firm at the annual Pro Bono Awards ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 22.

Through its annual Pajcic Yard Golf Tournament, the law firm has raised more than $1 million for Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, and its attorneys regularly provide pro bono representation to clients. The firm also offers financial support for pro bono providers.

The Florida Bar noted, “The culture of pro bono service at the highest level permeates the entire Pajcic and Pajcic team, where every member consistently demonstrates a commitment to service through individual pro bono, financial and volunteer contributions.”

Jacksonville Commits $1.6 Million to Expand Community Health Access

Baptist Health Jacksonville has announced it will invest more than $1.6 million in strategic initiatives over five years as part of its long-standing commitment to expanding health care access across the community.

To that end, the Baptist Health Community Health Clinic Fund has been established at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. Eligible recipients of these funds could include federally qualified health centers and free and charitable health clinics based in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties that are members of the Florida

Association of Free and Charitable Clinics.

“Baptist Health’s mission has always been about more than providing excellent care in our hospitals and clinics – it’s about showing up for our neighbors wherever needs exist,” said Baptist Health President and CEO Michael Mayo, DHA, FACHE. “By investing in and collaborating with free and charitable health clinics, we are meeting people where they are, removing barriers to care and helping families stay healthy proactively.”

According to “Community Health Needs Assessment,”

a recent report by area nonprofits, more than 140,000 people ages 18 to 64 – and more than 26,000 children – in Northeast Florida find themselves without health insurance, which Baptist Health Vice President of Katie Ensign said is a primary barrier to health care access.

“Charitable health clinics, such as those that will benefit from this fund, help to reduce that barrier to care,” said Ensign. “We are proud to collaborate with these clinics to improve access to health and well-being for all who live in our region.”

Let’s game plan your giving

These days, the number of charitable organizations and opportunities can be overwhelming for an unprepared giver. And there can be a big difference between giving just to give, and giving in a way that truly makes a difference.

Creating a meaningful giving plan should complement your asset strategies and reflect your passions. That way, your money goes where it can have the impact that matters most to you — and who you’re giving to.

So if you’re interested in giving with intent, we’d love to offer you a complimentary session. Let’s connect.

President

Annie Tuttle

Tuttle Named VP of Community Impact, Philanthropy at Alivia, Inc.

Alivia Care, Inc., the parent organization of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, has named Annie Tuttle Vice President of Community Impact and Philanthropy. In this role, Tuttle will lead philanthropic strategy, donor engagement and community partnerships that support Community Hospice and Palliative Care’s mission-driven health services. She will work closely with The Foundation of Community Hospice and Palliative Care Board of Trustees to expand and diversify funding for programs, several of which are unfunded or partially funded.

A North Florida resident for more than 35 years, Tuttle brings experience in education, entrepreneurship and community advocacy, along with a strong record of nonprofit and volunteer leadership. Her involvement with organizations such as Community Hospice and Palliative Care, The Donna Foundation, Wolfson Children’s Hospital and The Kate Amato Foundation reflects her commitment to community impact.

Tuttle is now focused on strengthening philanthropic support to ensure long-term access, innovation, and sustainability for patients and families across the region.

Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty Taps Israel as Avondale Sales Manager

Bold Birds Spreads its Wings with Second Location

Hughes Brown poses before the signature Bold Birds mural in the new Lakewood location on San Jose Boulevard.

Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken has opened its second location bringing its signature chicken to a new neighborhood.

Bold Birds is family-owned and -operated by the Brown family: Nashville native Hughes Brown moved to Jacksonville with his wife, who had grown up on Jacksonville’s Westside, in 2019, and they opened their flagship Bold Birds location in Murray Hill in May 2020. More than five years later, on Dec. 15, they opened their second location in Lakewood.

“We’ve had a number of opportunities come across as we opened in Murray Hill back in 2020, and either the timing wasn’t right for us previously, or we just didn’t feel like the spaces we looked at at the time maybe weren’t the right fit,” Brown said. “We found this one, and we’re thrilled.”

The Lakewood restaurant is located in the small shopping center at the corner of San Jose Boulevard and University Boulevard West, occupying the former Tijuana Flats space. Where their Murray Hill restaurant’s rush time is predominantly during the lunch hours, Lakewood’s is more during dinnertime, which he attributes to the residential neighborhoods in the surrounding areas.

Regardless of which location Bold Birds’ customers visit, they can expect the same classic Nashville hot chicken with “spice levels ranging from Classic (no spice) to Hotter Than a Mother Clucker.”

“It’s the original, authentic style [of hot chicken],” Brown said.

Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken Lakewood is located at 5635 San Jose Boulevard. It’s open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. except for certain holidays.

A Winning Round for Child Safety

David Israel is the new sales manager of the Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty Avondale office.

Israel, a Jacksonville native, will leverage his strong understanding of the local community and deep roots in Northeast Florida to support continued growth across the region, empower his agents, and strengthen office culture.

Israel has been with the company since 2019. Over the years, he has consistently contributed to the company’s growth and culture. He advanced to assistant manager at the Coldwell Banker Vanguard Town Center office in September 2022.

Before launching his career in real estate, Israel worked in finance for nearly a decade and continues to work in local radio promotions today.

The 2025 Dream Finders Homes Champions for Child Safety Pro Am Golf Tournament raised $533,000 for the Monique Burr Foundation for Children.

The annual tournament took place at The Palencia Club in St. Augustine, bringing together corporate teams and individuals to play alongside professional golfers. Proceeds will benefit MBF Prevention Education programs.

Since its inception in 1994, the golf tournament has raised more than $6.7 million for the organization. AT&T, Jax Utilities Management, Lennar and MJC Land Development presented this year’s tournament.

The Florida Bar has recognized Alexandra Underkofler for her passion and commitment to providing pro bono services for low-income and disadvantaged clients. Underkofler, of the fourth judicial circuit, was one of 21 attorneys to receive the Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Awards on Jan. 22 at the Supreme Court of Florida. Underkofler is an associate attorney with Delegal, Poindexter and Underkofler.

Florida Bar President Rosalyn Sia Baker-Barnes presented these annual awards, which are given alongside the Tobias Simon Pro Bono Services and other awards given by the Florida Supreme Court chief justice.

According to The Florida Bar’s recent reporting period – July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 –Florida attorneys provided $9.6 million to legal aid organizations and more than 1.6 million hours of pro bono services.

Appointments

Four new members have joined the board of directors of three area Baptist Health hospitals.

John Avendano, PhD, has joined the Baptist Medical Center, Jacksonville BOD. Avendano is the president and CEO of Florida State College at Jacksonville. He holds a master’s degree in adult continuing education from Northern Illinois University and a doctorate in educational administration and foundations from Illinois State University. Avendano is an active member of JAXUSA, the Rotary Club of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Civic Council. He also sits on the board of Goodwill Industries of North Florida.

In Nassau County, Erma Brutscher, CPAM, and Michael Brooks have both joined the board of directors of Baptist Medical Center Nassau. With more than 40 years of experience in finance and revenue cycle, Brutcher is a retired health care consultant and practice administrator, previously serving in leadership positions with Central Maine Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Health System. Recognized as a Top 40 over 40 professional in Nassau County, Brooks is a senior vice president, Florida market leader and chief market officer for First Port City Bank.

Timothy J. Anderson, JD, joins the board of directors of Baptist Medical Center Beaches. He is the managing partner of Anderson Financial Partners, Inc. in Ponte Vedra Beach. He serves as a guest lecturer at the University of Florida College of Law and is the board chair of Pine Castle.

Each of these newly appointed board members will serve three-year terms.

Local Agents Make Big Move, Further Luxury Branding on International Scale

Singleton and

Hopkins

transition to Christie’s International Real Estate First Coast

Jon Singleton and Susan Hopkins built their reputations the old-fashioned way. They stayed. They produced. They earned trust, year after year, in a business where many agents never reach steady transactional volume.

Now the Singleton-Hopkins Team is bringing that staying power to Christie’s International Real Estate First Coast, a move they call a natural next step for growth, service and global reach.

“We were really looking for a natural way to expand,” Hopkins said. “Not just local branding, but national branding, global branding. Christie’s is coming into Jacksonville in growth mode, and the ties to the auction house are unique.”

Luxury is not about a price point, it’s about a level of service.

– Susan Hopkins Co-Founder, The Singleton-Hopkins Team

The team spent years at a long-standing local brokerage, where Singleton developed a reputation as a consistent top producer and Hopkins built a loyal following. They formed a team fourteen years ago and became the top-ranked team companywide, a distinction they say reflects day-to-day production.

They are known for dominance in Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods, with more than 500 homes sold in those areas, along with hundreds more at the beaches and throughout St. Johns County. Together, they have closed more than 1,000 transactions.

They say the transition is not about leaving local

relationships behind. It is about reinforcing those ties while adding tools and a network that help them compete at the highest end of the market.

“Luxury is not about a price point, it’s about a level of service,” Hopkins said.

Singleton said the brand and infrastructure were decisive.

“We were looking for positive energy and a brokerage focused on agent success,” he said. “We wanted an elevated brand, marketing and technology, and we found that at Christie’s.”

Their broker, Corey Hasting, said the fit was immediate and started with character.

“We recruit culture first, and Jon and Susan fit our culture perfectly,” Hasting said. “I knew within 10 minutes of meeting them that they were an appropriate fit for what we are doing.”

Hasting also pointed to production. “The production speaks for itself,” he said. “Anytime you can bring in the No. 1 small team at one of our biggest competitors, it is a great thing.”

With Christie’s, Hasting said, the team gains an international network tied to the auction house and a technology stack designed to streamline the business of high-producing agents.

“My sales pitch was, look what you accomplished without everything,” Hasting said. “There is not a single way you cannot accomplish more with everything we have to offer.”

Hasting described his role as removing friction, not reteaching fundamentals. “How can I streamline your business through tools and systems,” he said.

Singleton and Hopkins said the practical benefits include stronger digital campaigns and a global referral pipeline that can match local listings with buyers around the world.

“If we have people looking in Lisbon or Dubai or Singapore, we can reach them,” Singleton said. “It is easy to tap into the global network.”

They emphasized that the new chapter still includes the full range of clients who have trusted them for years. “We’ve got great folks with $300,000 houses and we can still help them,” Singleton said. “We can now serve them even better.”

They also see the move as a step toward the luxury segment, backed by worldwide exposure, as Jacksonville draws increased attention from out-of-market buyers.

With a local track record established, the SingletonHopkins Team says the goal is straightforward: keep delivering trusted service, now supported by a global platform and modern systems.

Christie’s International Real Estate First Coast has offices in San Marco, Atlantic Beach, Amelia Island, Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Johns.

An Afternoon Full of Fashion, Friendships and Special Collections

Entrepreneur and fashion executive Elyce Arons visited Jacksonville for a book signing and reception Jan. 26, sharing her journey as best friend of the late Kate Spade and her co-founding of the Frances Valentine brand of clothing. The event was held at the riverfront home of Brooks Holland, drawing a fashion-forward crowd for an afternoon of conversation, networking and celebration. Arons spoke about building an iconic brand and her experiences in the fashion industry and her deep relationship with Kate Spade, prior to signing copies of her book for attendees. The host committee included Beverley Brooke, LeAnne Crabtree, Liza Barnett Emmet, Mollie Peterson, Brooks Holland, Molly Renaud and Leigh Rosenbloom.

When

The Hightower Emerging Leaders Fellowship

the Guests gathered at PRI

on Friday,

The gala serves as a graduation for these emerging leaders, marking the experiences they will carry with them into their respective professional

Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Opens 2026 with General Meeting

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary launched its 2026 year of

Epping Forest Yacht and Country Club. Hosted by longtime member Marilyn Carpenter, the gathering brought members and guests together to set the tone for the year ahead. The meeting opened with a devotional prayer from Susan Halil, followed by remarks from President Debbie Veale and a welcome to guests by Second Vice President Diane Bailey. This year’s guest speaker was Mary Daniel, founder of Caregivers for Compromise.

The Auxiliary closed the morning by reminding members and supporters that its annual Silent Auction and Tasting Luncheon is scheduled for April 9, 2026, at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center.

the Class IX graduates at its annual gala last month. recognize the cohort of 17 young professionals, ages 26 to 40. marking the culmination of their fellowship experiences and professional fields.

A new learning center for Baptist Health is using state-of-the-art technology in a simulation lab to enhance, elevate, and accelerate team member development.

The Baptist Center for Professional Experience opened last month: a 42,000-plus-squarefoot facility that centralizes all of Baptist’s training programs into a single location in San Marco Plaza East.

The facility features a conference center and classrooms, but its crowning jewel is the cutting-edge simulation lab that allows team members to run through any number of medical scenarios in recreated spaces that replicate real clinical environments, among which are nurses’ stations, NICU rooms, operating rooms and more. The rear of the facility features a full-size, functional ambulance, donated by Clay County Rescue.

According to Amy Shaheen, medical simulation manager at Baptist Health, the new 13,000-square-foot simulation lab is roughly five times the size of Baptist’s previous space. It was designed, Shaheen explained, to exactly replicate the real-time workflow process for team members.

“There’s no pretending in our sim lab,” Shaheen said. “I’m not going to pretend to pull prescriptions or pretend to start an IV. We’re actually doing it…because adult learners learn by doing, through action. That’s what builds muscle memory, helps it stick. So tomorrow, when they’re caring for one of our loved ones, they know exactly what to do because they’ve done it.”

Another unique characteristic of the simulation rooms is that they are closed spaces versus larger, open rooms. Shaheen said these closed spaces create a psychologically safe

environment where team members can learn.

“We want you to feel comfortable making a mistake, talking about it and then learning from it – or the group learning from it,” Shaheen said. “That can be hard to do if we’re in a wide open space.”

The simulation lab is also outfitted with state-of-the-art high-fidelity “manikins.” These are anatomically correct models that can accurately simulate every human physiological response. Technicians operate the manikins in a connected control room; depending on the scenario, they could alter heart and breathing rates, simulate lung or heart sounds, and even simulate a seizure.

Dr. Michael Mayo, DHA, FACHE, former president and CEO of Baptist Health, said the Baptist Center for Professional Excellence will serve as a significant recruitment tool for the health care system and, to his knowledge, surpasses other health systems’ training facilities.

“I don’t think I know of a health system that has anything to this extent,” Mayo said. “Most everyone has something…but this is just, you know, on steroids.”

Mayo added that the center gives endless opportunities to medical professionals.

“If you have an educational passion or a health passion, the sky’s the limit,” Mayo said. “That’s what’s going to be the beautiful thing about this.”

Falling in LovewithArt

University of North Florida Photography

John Muir – naturalist, conservationist, author and “Father of the National Parks” – once remarked, “In February, let nature be your guide and find solace in its beauty and rhythm.”

The First Coast Plein Air Painters take this to heart as they venture into the great outdoors to capture the light and natural beauty of the world.

From Ortega’s Stinson Park to Washington Oaks State Park, the group revels in the challenge of painting in nature.

“Art is meditative,” said artist Jeanette Dennis. “You try to capture the spirit of a subject.”

Professor Alexander Diaz seeks beauty and serenity in natural springs. His exhibit at Southlight Gallery – “Beneath the Surface” – is mesmerizing, inviting the viewer into “Florida’s hidden tranquility.”

The process is not particularly tranquil as Diaz dives deep into the springs, his camera encased in an underwater housing. He explained that in one shot he was hanging onto a submerged tree limb in 20 feet of water while shooting upwards.

At Touché Gallery, Kristin Cronic’s spectacular paintings of trees are aweinspiring and transcend the confines of the canvas. For the “Up Above My Head” exhibit at TAC Gallery, artists had various interpretations, but Annelies Dykgraaf took Best in Show, while Cookie Davis

JACKSONVILLE’S DIAMOND SOURCE FOR FOUR GENERATIONS

and Roger Bailey both earned Juror’s Pick awards.

Stephanie Welchans’ recent exhibit at the Jacksonville Public Library downtown –“Art and Whimsy” – was a fun and colorful collection of flowers, birds, landscapes and fanciful critters that brings joy to the spirit.

“Art helps me focus and enlarges my world,” said Welchans. “It has put me on the path with many who have similar interests.”

Other artists and contemporaries shared why they love what they do.

Glenn Ivie finds distraction and a calming spirit as he is “in the moment” painting. Aaron Jackson said art allows him to bridge the gap between his conscious and subconscious mind. Larry Wilson finds escape from the world in his art studio.

“Stress and mental chatter immediately fade away, and it becomes just me and the clay or the paint,” Wilson added.

Cookie Davis explained, “Art is a constant in the lives of artists, most of whom have been creating since childhood.”

Dave Engdahl summed it up when he stated, “Art is creating something that didn’t previously exist and expands your thinking in all aspects of life.”

In left behind, Whitney Oldenburg invites us to reflect on the complex relationships between humans and the things we accumulate, use, hold, and discard. Oldenburg’s work considers the attachments to things, and the material world itself, as an impetus for adaptation. MOCA Jacksonville presents the first institutional survey of Oldenburg’s sculptures and drawings, exploring her thoughtful perspective on how we live — and what remains after us.

exceptional storytelling of Erin Cowart, who won first place at January’s Story Slam, themed “The Messy Middle.”

Paul Ladnier’s presentation and demonstration of his painting technique to members of the Art Guild of Orange Park was fun and inspiring – even his palettes are works of art: Check out the exhibit of his palettes at the Cummer Museum of Art and

Gardens. Jacksonville Artist Guild members were awed by FSCJ Professor Michael Cottrell’s amazing three-dimensional works including ceramics, large-scale sculptures and digital fabrication.

Artists love art – and artists. Everyone who knows Pablo Rivera knows of his accomplishments and successes as a painter, sculptor and instructor. To celebrate Rivera, who will turn 90 in March, Kevin Arthur invited fellow artists to Cork for an evening of “Painting Pablo.” More than 40 artists turned out for the three-hour opportunity to paint, draw and sketch as Rivera modeled. What an outpouring of love for art and the artist.

John Bunker said, “I endeavor to create works that express the joy of living and allow others to enjoy what I create. Art manifests itself in the extension of self – allowing one’s spirit and presence to live on past one’s time on earth.”

Whether visual expression, dance, theater or music – why do people create art? Because they have to.

Feb. 3

ArtWalk Downtown Jacksonville | 5 to 9 p.m.

Feb. 7

Camellia Festival Ortega Church | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Feb. 7

Auditions for “Wizard of Wonderland” Theatre Jacksonville, 1 to 3 p.m.

Feb. 9

Jacksonville Artists Guild Reception and Awards for “Remember When” Church of the Good Shepherd Betsy Lovett Hall | 5 to 6 p.m.

Feb. 10

Jeff Whipple Exhibit and Reception FSCJ Kent Campus

Feb. 11

Reception for Dawn Montgomery’s exhibit “Consider the Wildflowers” Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church 6 to 7 p.m.

Feb. 13

Babs’ Lab Story Slam “Red” Cork Arts District North | 8 p.m.

by Chris

are available in the Gift Shop – get yours today! They make great gifts and support the mission!

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BETWEEN THE LINES

BY MICHELE LEIVAS

I Read with My Ears, and I’m Not Sorry

CURRENTLY READING:

“The Once and Future Queen” by Paula Lafferty

CURRENTLY LISTENING TO:

“The Book that Wouldn’t Burn” Mark Lawrence

I love audiobooks. I listen to them every chance I get: in my car, while I’m walking my dog, Addy. I appreciate background music, particularly while I’m working or writing, but for the most part, if there’s an opportunity to occupy my mind – say, for example, during tedious tasks of folding and putting away laundry or other household chores – I’m going to occupy it with a good audiobook versus a good soundtrack.

And while I know there are some who debate whether or not listening to a book is the same as reading a book, I will say this: I am experiencing the story nonetheless and, well, audiobooks bring me joy, ease my anxiety and allow me to consume more books than I would ordinarily have time to get to during my very packed days (and if you saw my TBR list, you’d know I have a lot of books I want to get to).

Not only that, but audiobook narrators allow readers to experience books differently, bringing characters

to life with unique voices, accents, and even more personality that I can imbue in them in my head. That being said, an audiobook narrator can also make or break a book. Some of my favorite narrators are Saskia Maarleveld (particularly for novels by Kate Quinn), Imogen Church (Ruth Ware novels) and Elizabeth Evans (Sarah J. Maas).

“Reading is reading is reading, no matter what,” said Mariah Jones, owner of The Literary Lounge, an independent bookstore in Murray Hill. “I love audiobooks. I think if I didn’t have them, I wouldn’t be able to consume as many books that I do a year, because I’m just a very busy person.”

I had the opportunity to share my love of audiobooks with a group during an Audiobook Walk through Murray Hill, hosted by The Literary Lounge last month. The walk took place on Saturday, Jan. 10, and lasted roughly 40 minutes, covering just under two miles through the neighborhood. Jones said she launched these monthly audiobook walks last fall but typically held them on a weekday evening after work; following the time change, the event was moved to Saturday mornings. Last month’s event was the biggest turnout yet, Jones said.

As we walked, I began a new audiobook, “An Ancient Witch’s Guide to Modern Dating” by Cecilia Edwards, that I stumbled across quite by accident on my Libby app because every other book I searched from my TBR list was on hold. I must have placed five or six holds that day, all of which I’m sure will come in at the same time two months from now, and I’ll go from having no books to listen to, to too many to handle. The struggle is real for an audiobook listener, am I right? It was the perfect morning for a walk, and it was lovely to be surrounded by so many fellow booklovers who enjoyed

being in each other’s company while listening to a good book.

Jones echoed that sentiment.

“I just am really thankful that people come to these events and then they’ll walk away with something,” Jones said.

“Usually, we do lots of crafting events and things like that, but ultimately, they’re walking away with community.”

Thanks to audiobooks, I have already been able to experience two incredible novels in the first half of January (“This Will Be Fun” by E.B. Asher and the book by Edwards mentioned above): Both highly entertaining and both stellar audiobook picks. Ten out of 10 would recommend. Asher’s audiobook even has a cast of narrators for its multi-POV plot.

Michele Leivas listens to audiobooks at a minimum of 1.5x speed but gradually works up to 2x speed every chance she gets. She loves it whenever an audiobook features a cast of narrators that do different voices for each character and whenever a narrator absolutely nails a British, Irish, or Scottish accent for a character.

Meet Lauren Carlucci SMPS Past President, 2022 to 2023

By Fabrizio Gowdy

Long before Lauren Carlucci served as president of the San Marco Preservation Society (SMPS), San Marco was her favorite place to be. Growing up in Orange Park, she remembers coming to the neighborhood often with her friends in high school.

“There really aren’t very many places in Jacksonville where teenagers can walk around, grab a cup of coffee, maybe do a little window shopping, enjoy the parks,” said Carlucci.

She moved to San Marco when she married her husband, Matt. She loves being able to walk with her family from their home to various places in the neighborhood, including Brown L. Whatley Park, their church and the Square.

With a passion for San Marco’s history, it didn’t take long for Carlucci to become invested in the neighborhood’s preservation and future.

During the construction of the Hendricks Avenue apartments, she became involved with Right Size San Marco.

“That was sort of my big intro into land use and zoning. I threw myself into the zoning code and learned all about all of that,” said Carlucci.

She served as the SMPS Land, Use and Zoning Chair before becoming vice president and, eventually, president from 2022 to 2023. One of Carlucci’s undertakings was a survey of the neighborhood’s alleys, which was done to keep the alleys public and preserve San Marco’s grid.

The most prominent issue Carlucci handled as SMPS president was the controversial plan to build self-storage units at the intersection of Hendricks Avenue and Prudential Drive. Under her leadership, SMPS successfully pushed for changes to the original proposal, including the addition of residential space.

“That was really a win for SMPS,” said Carlucci.

For Carlucci, the most important consideration for new development in San Marco is whether it is “smart growth” that preserves the neighborhood’s quaint charm.

“That was really my focus – keeping the historic nature of the neighborhood and trying to balance that with development,” said Carlucci.

Trump Pushes Reclassification of Medical Marijuana to Schedule III

In late 2025, Donald Trump directed federal agencies to begin reclassif ying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a move that would formally recognize its medical use under federal law. The proposed change reflects a shift in federal view s on medical cannabis, recognizing its medical use while leaving access and regulation under state law.

What does this mean to patients?

Federal recognition of medical use.

Reduced patient stigma . Improved research and guidance.

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love and all things hawt and spicy, I’d like to show appreciation for our beautiful, aging bodies and the sense of legacy and purpose they can instill in each of us – if we can just “Be Mine” them instead of fixing, plumping, starving or surgically removing them. All the bodies who live in our Resident Community tell unique stories – ones that can be celebrated through the right perspective.

THANK YOU NOTES FROM MY EMPTY NEST PERCH 31

By Susanna Barton

She warned me about staying in the sun, that I’d turn into a “leather bag” like she did. Her arms were thin and crepey, demurely bedazzled at the wrists, and they were such a comfort to me. She had big knotty knuckles. I remember staring at them while we were watching “Dallas” on the couch or when we were sitting by the pool or at the beach. Those arms were beautiful to me.

My mom had a tiny little frame and

my mom thought it would be cute to give me a Dorothy Hamil haircut. It wouldn’t have been so bad, but this haircut came on the heels of a balance beam falling on my nose during a P.E. obstacle course, thus rendering my facial expressions slightly distorted and not very Dorothy Hamil-like – and I had braces and a double-strapper headgear. Ben looks much more handsome now than I did at that age, but it is pretty amazing to see the resemblance.

Barton, who raised his family in Avondale and Ortega two generations ago. And he’s always had the coloring and spice of his mother, Agnes, and her father, George Ellis. With so many wonderful ingredients, what’s not to like? What an honor to embody the physical traits of such lovely people.

I recently spent a long stretch at Crescent Beach in an old one-piece, just kicking back in a beach chair and taking it all in. I love a good beach day: It’s immersive, makes every sense wake up and absorb the awe and beauty, and of course, the sun – which isn’t supposed to be good for us, but my motto is anything that makes me feel this good and alive could not be something to avoid altogether. So, I embrace my inner Magda and just bask in it.

This summer I really noticed how my body has changed and how I have been bequeathed many of the physical traits I noticed when my mom and grandmother wore bathing suits so long ago. This is exciting to me! What used to be lean muscular tissue on my thighs is now a curtain of crepey, spongey, speckled skin visoring my knees and threatening a landslide onto the once-sporty calves and ankles below. And (yes, I know, because of my sun-loving) most of my skin is spotty, uneven and tough-looking – especially on my arms and hands. This is even more exciting because those are some of the physical features I remember most about my mom and grandmother.

My grandmother had darkish, wrinkly skin that was all kinds of spotted up.

big hips and thighs – a trait known as the Biedenharn hips. She sure got some of those hips, she’d lament jokingly. When it was pool time, mom always wore a bathing suit with a skirt. In all the times I’d swim between her legs or watch her move during an after-dinner walk, I always thought how truly lovely she was. Never did I think, “Ew” or “Yuck” or “I wish she’d do something about those Biedenharn hips; I wish she would dye her silver hair so she didn’t look so old. I wish my grandmother would get rid of that baggy skin or tighten things up around her mouth.” My thought was usually just, “I love her very, very much.”

It has occurred to me what a gift this is, to start seeing in and on myself the great beauty and realness I admired in Mom and Bobbie. It’s as if they’re becoming re-alived in the flesh – like, literally! – and I have the incredible fortune to welcome them back. To me, all this sagging and spotty-skin stuff and rippling and greying is their great re-entry into my life. It is an honor!

When you have kids, it works the other way, too. As our children have gotten older, I see reflections of myself. Many a childhood friend has told me our son, Ben, looks a lot like I did in the sixth grade, when

If you could distinguish humor, I see my appreciation of wit in our daughter Marley, as we now laugh at the same things and trade the same kind of

All of this awareness has gotten me super jazzed about what else is going to happen in my aging body journey. What other memories will be stirred? What other feelings of love and family will be reignited? Who else will I see in myself? And how can I pass this sense of beauty and awe down to the next generation of children who watch, develop confidence and discover the same legacy through their own aging bodies? This skin – sag and all – is cause for celebration and Valentine adoration. I am most honored to Be Mine this month and hope you will discover the same love letter in your beautiful, aging self.

summer I really noticed how my body has changed and how I have been bequeathed many of the physical traits I noticed when my mom and grandmother wore bathing suits so long ago.

ridiculous TikTok videos – mainly cat clips and practical jokes and ridiculous things I don’t even fully understand. And I’m 100% certain our love of the ha-has came directly from my great grandmother Mama Pennye who was always up for a laugh and some cheese balls and orange soda. This stuff is in our blood; we cannot deny it.

My husband David looks increasingly similar to his grandfather, Quinn R.

Susanna Barton always hoped her hair would prematurely turn snowy silver like her mom’s distinctive strands, but that hasn’t happened yet. A Granada resident, Barton currently manages an online community called Grand Plans, which encourages healthy conversations about aging and preparing for it on www.mygrandplans.com

Local FOLKS 32

Tooker Ed

By Fabrizio Gowdy

Originally from New Jersey, Ed Tooker never planned on settling in Jacksonville. He was heading south en route to Fort Lauderdale, where he had previously spent spring break and planned to move. On the way, though, he stopped in Jacksonville to visit a friend who lived in Riverside, rerouting his trip and, ultimately, his life.

“It was the best detour I ever did – the rest is history,” said Tooker, remembering how he first came to move to Jacksonville in 1988.

Though he moved away twice – once to Portland and later, to Atlanta – Jacksonville kept pulling him back. After a decade in Atlanta working in real estate, he returned for good and now lives in a historic 1938 bungalow on Felch Avenue.

“I drove around street by street,” he said, describing how he found his home. “Saw a little bungalow and told my agent, ‘Start writing an offer.’”

He’s since renovated and updated the house with care. He shares his home with MYSTR, a 12-year-old rescue dog he recently adopted and saved from euthanasia.

Tooker loves San Marco’s walkability and central location. He appreciates being steps from the Metro Diner and minutes from downtown, where he frequently attends concerts, plays and sporting events.

Tooker also finds joy in the neighborhood’s historic character. He calls San Marco Square the crown jewel of the community and always enjoys showing it off when people come to visit him.

Outside of real estate, Tooker is deeply involved in the local LGBTQ community, serving as an event organizer with the OUTdoorsy Adventure Team, a nonprofit that hosts inclusive hikes and outdoor experiences across Jacksonville and beyond.

One of his signature events is an annual sunrise beach

gathering, followed by a hike at Cradle Creek Preserve and brunch. The group also holds urban hikes through historic neighborhoods like LaVilla, fostering appreciation for their architecture and culture.

Tooker sees these hikes as more than just exercise; they’re a way to connect people to the city’s changing landscape. He’s especially excited about the Fuller Warren Shared Use Path, the Emerald Trail and their potential to link neighborhoods across Jacksonville.

“People won’t be segregated to parts of the city; they’ll be exposed to lots of different people,” said Tooker.

Most hikes are local, within an hour or so of town,

People won’t be segregated to parts of the city; they’ll be exposed to lots of different people.

– Ed Tooker

Event Organizer, OUTdoorsy Adventure Team

though the group occasionally ventures farther: They’ve gone zip-lining and kayaking in Ocala and took their first flyaway trip to Puerto Rico last June.

“We had someone in the group whose family lives there,” said Tooker. “So they helped organize and show us the culture from a local perspective.”

In addition to hiking with OUTdoorsy, Tooker enjoys some time to himself fishing. He fishes off his paddleboard in the river, the Intracoastal and the ocean. He also likes surf fishing from the beach and has gone fly fishing in North Georgia and Tennessee.

“Whether I catch something or not, it’s always a good day when I’m fishing,” he said. “Even if it’s a crappy day, it gets you out of your head.”

After three detours to Jacksonville, he is certain this one is permanent.

“I live in the 904-area code for the third and last time,” said Tooker.

Small Horses, Big Impact

By Julie Kerns Garmendia

A new equine therapy partnership between Nemours Children’s Health and the North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) is bringing new, reciprocal opportunities for children and teens at both organizations.

Specially trained, miniature horses from NFSSE will regularly visit Nemours Children’s Health youth to provide them with equine-assisted therapy and activities.

NFSSE students will be able to access services at Nemours as well, said Jennifer Pfieffer, APRN, ESMHL. Pfieffer is Nemours Children’s Health director and senior equine specialist in mental health and learning for the Assisted Dog & Pony Therapy Program (ADAPT). She is also a pediatric clinical nurse specialist in diabetes education and transition selfmanagement for teens.

The ADAPT program at Nemours uses animal-assisted treatment to support children with chronic medical conditions like cancer or diabetes, integrating miniature horses into structured clinical sessions. The new partnership with NFSSE ensures consistent access to trained therapy horses and handlers, enhancing therapeutic continuity and safety.

The ADAPT team at Nemours includes licensed mental health professionals, medical care providers, psychologists and social work medical providers. All team members have extensive animal-assisted therapy training, and many have graduate degrees in animal-assisted counseling or PATH (Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship International) certification. PATH certifies and accredits equine centers, instructors and specialists in accordance with nationally recognized professional standards.

Pfieffer said that while considering ways to improve the consistency and costeffectiveness of Nemours’ equine therapy program, she decided to contact someone at NFSSE to discuss their program. The school offers its equine therapy sessions at an on-site barn, thanks to the generosity of philanthropist Delores Barr Weaver. The Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center is named in honor of her support for the school’s mission, its faculty and its students.

“I was fortunate to talk to Faye Clever, NFSSE barn manager, about their program, but they only had one miniature horse,” she said. “I offered to find more miniature therapy horses with just the perfect, calm temperament that were already trained or could be trained and certified…if there was a way that we could partner to offer equine therapy services at both of our locations.”

The result of that search was two miniature horses that were graciously donated by one of the first Nemours ADAPT graduates, and a third horse that could be leased long-term. Executives from both organizations met and agreed on this mutually beneficial partnership to share the horses and offer equine therapy for children and teens at both Nemours and NFSSE.

The three participating miniature horses – Pip, Squeak, and Skeeter – were all initially evaluated for program participation by Nemours equine specialists. They have acclimated to their new home stable at NFSSE, completed their standardized training requirements and Pet Partners registration, and are now successfully working as part of an equine therapy team, Pfieffer said.

To be registered with Pet Partners, therapy horses must pass a veterinary health screening and demonstrate proficient obedience. Together, the horse and trainer team must pass a skills and aptitude test and an in-person evaluation of both the handler’s and the horse’s ability to work calmly, safely, and effectively together in a community setting. Pet Partners is a national nonprofit organization recognized as the leader in animal-assisted interventions. It trains and registers teams of therapy animals and handlers to provide comfort and support in settings such as hospitals, schools and workplaces.

Before the new partnership, Nemours had contracted to use two miniature therapy horses, Gypsy and Taco, who had to be transported from their St. Augustine stable. This round-trip journey was much longer for the horses and more costly than the seven-mile trip between Nemours and NFSSE. It took an hour for handlers to prepare the horses for travel, load them into a horse trailer, and complete the journey before they could even begin any

Animal HOUSE

scheduled therapy sessions.

Gypsy and Taco were such favorites that they were treated to a full-blown retirement party at Nemours. While they may have left the Nemours program, these patient and student favorites are still active in St. Augustine’s HAALT Therapeutic Center Program (Hands On AnimalAssisted Learning Therapy). HAALT offers equine-assisted therapy as part of its mental health counseling services for children, teens and adults, and is a PATH member center.

Pfieffer said that the horses help chronically ill children with worries or anxieties about medical treatment, chemotherapy hair loss, or pain from mild to severe conditions. She described it as a labor of love, noting that handlers and trainers can empower a child by allowing them to lead a horse or brush its mane. These actions – passive or more active – can all build confidence, a sense of accomplishment and sense of wellbeing when patients face uncertainty or must be

pediatric health systems, with two freestanding hospitals and a network of more than 70 primary and specialty care practices. Nemours seeks to transform children’s health through a holistic model that delivers innovative, safe and high-quality care while addressing whole-child health. It provides hospital- and clinic-based specialty primary care, prevention and health information services, as well as research and medical education programs, to improve the lives of children and their families. The Nemours Foundation was established in 1936 by the late philanthropist Alfred I. duPont through his will, and it continues to oversee and fund Nemours Children’s Health.

As part of its community educational outreach, Nemours produces the awardwinning podcast “Well Beyond Medicine,” which discusses pediatric medicine. It also maintains the world’s most visited website, NemoursKidsHealth.org, which provides physician-reviewed information on the health, behavior and development of children from birth to adulthood.

away from home.

“A therapy horse can create a peaceful bubble around that child, teen or young adult, making learning or conversation more possible and less stressful,” Pfieffer said. “Activities with the horse help therapists and counselors gently demonstrate new ways to empower a patient when they might feel helpless, whether it is confronting illness, learning how to self-manage diabetes care, or transitioning out of the hospital back to school or to college, jobs or living independently. We see magical moments happen all the time.”

Pfieffer said the program is growing fast, with a waiting list already booked through May 2026. Both Nemours and NFSSE welcome donations to support the therapy horse program expenses, and invite readers to visit their websites for ways to donate or volunteer.

Nemours Children’s Health is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit, multistate

NFSSE, a nonprofit educational organization, was founded with the mission of fostering each student’s unique abilities and revealing their highest potential within an engaged community. It serves students with intellectual and developmental differences from ages six to 22 and also offers a postgraduate program for young adults ages 22 to 40. NFSSE is fully accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools.

Nemours Children’s Health and NFSSE gratefully thank the Rotary Club of East Arlington and its leadership and members for the generous donation of a new horse trailer to safely and comfortably transport the miniature therapy horses from the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center at NFSSE to the Nemours campus. The donation of the new trailer was a critical need that made the new equine therapy partnership possible and aptly demonstrates the Rotary Club motto: “Unite for Good.”

By Lauren K. Weedon

Giving Back, Side by Side

Valentine’s Day is often associated with flowers, cards and sweet gestures, but at its heart, the holiday is about love in action. This February, Resident News is celebrating the deeper spirit of the season by spotlighting four local families who are sharing their love not only with one another but also with the community around them. Through volunteering, philanthropy and hands-on service, these parents are teaching their children that some of the most meaningful moments come from giving back together – and that love, when multiplied through service, has the power to strengthen families and transform lives.

The Hills: Theresa, Shay and Emma

With a heart of compassion, Theresa Hill of St. Nicholas said she finds great reward in volunteering. She’s been involved in the Jacksonville community for decades, beginning with the Rotaract Club of Florida’s First Coast and the Junior League of Jacksonville as a young professional.

Now a wife to Shay and mom to Emma, Theresa has transformed giving back into a family affair.

“We are very blessed in so many ways,” said Theresa. “We are called to be bigger. We are called to help others.”

Theresa served on the board of the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council (DESC) for 10 years, and her whole family continues to support the organization. Theresa appreciated that DESC is faith-based and was founded as a partnership with many downtown churches of all denominations coming together to serve the less fortunate. She and Shay help with fundraising for the nonprofit’s annual event, while the whole family has also collected toiletries and clothing to donate to DESC. When Emma was in elementary school, she created flyers for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich drive and had a tremendous response.

Recently, Theresa and Emma joined the National Charity League Jacksonville Chapter, which is a volunteer organization of moms and daughters (seventh through 12th grade) promoting leadership and giving back. The group was established in Jacksonville three years ago and officially became a chapter of the national organization last year. Some of the nonprofits they have supported are Family Housing, Dreams Come True, Wolfson Children’s Hospital and Angels for Allison.

“It’s a great way to meet other likeminded people and get involved with many organizations,” said Theresa. “Plus, the girls

learn leadership skills such as board service and how to create a meeting agenda.”

Meanwhile, Shay is an active volunteer through his workplace as a JEA Ambassador.

“Through the Power Pals program, we go into elementary schools and teach students about home safety and electricity,” he said.

JEA also encourages its employees to volunteer together as a team.

“Our team has completed river cleanups, sorted and distributed food with Feeding Northeast Florida and sorted clothing at the Hubbard House thrift store,” said Shay. “It’s both team building and community building.”

Through their collective service, the Hill family demonstrates the power of giving back together – at home, at work and throughout the community.

The Bravos: Lucy, Phil, Elizabeth, Marlyn, Abigail and Voss

For more than 30 years, Jacksonville’s “Community Nutcracker” has been a cherished holiday tradition where ballet artistry meets a deep commitment to service.

A moving highlight each year is the onstage recognition of a Dreamer from Dreams Come True, celebrating hope and joy for children facing life-threatening illnesses. Beyond the performances, “The Community Nutcracker” reinvests proceeds into the community and awards scholarships to senior dancers.

The entire Bravo family of Ortega

danced together in the 2023 production to give back to the community and support one another. Daughter Elizabeth shared, “I like it better when we audition as a family because I think it makes it less stressful.”

As a couple, Lucy and Phil support and volunteer with Engaged Encounter, a marriage preparation program sponsored by the Engaged Encounter Community and the Office of Family Life. Offered as a weekend retreat, it gives couples a distractionfree setting to reflect deeply on their relationship and future together, including communication, values, goals, family life, and faith. While Catholic in origin, the program is open to couples of any faith who are seriously considering marriage recognized by the Catholic Church. Lucy and Phil share stories from their own marriage to help others.

The Browns: Nicole, Andy, Emmett and Grayson

When Nicole and Andy Brown moved to Jacksonville nine years ago, one of the first things they did was get involved with the Jewish Community Alliance.

“We were looking for a sense of community and the JCA is a true melting pot,” said Nicole.

Over the years, it has become a place near and dear to the entire family: Nicole is currently the board chair, and her sons, Emmett and Grayson, attend JCA’s aftercare program.

“Our boys have been at the JCA since prenatal yoga,” laughed Nicole. “Then they attended the pre-school from one year through kindergarten, they play sports and attend summer camp.”

Exposing Grayson and Emmett to the needs of others has given them hearts to help the less fortunate.

“I’m so proud that their teachers have recognized them for their empathy and kindness toward the other students,” said Nicole. “They are in tune with others’ emotional needs.”

Nicole is a therapist at The LJD Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS), where her boys also get involved in the food pantry and clothing closet through collecting coats and jackets, as well as canned goods. Andy is a doctor with Borland Groover and is passionate about urging people to be screened for colon cancer early. He sponsors events at the JCA and JFCS to give back and spread awareness.

The San Marco family is particularly involved in Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in Our Community, which is a partnership between the JCA and the YMCA.

The third Annual Racing Against Hate 5K Run/Walk is on Sunday, Feb. 22, at the Winston Family YMCA.

“We give our time, treasure and talent,” said Nicole. “The way we think is, ‘Why not help others in need?’”

The Turners: Ana, Stephen, Olivia, Joey,

Cecilia, Madeline and Dorothy Ana and Stephen Turner first became friends in high school while volunteering together at Camp I Am Special, a summer camp program for children and adults with intellectual and developmental differences. Stephen and his three sisters were all volunteers, and his mother was the volunteer nurse. Ana appreciated his close-knit family and heart for service, and they began dating in college. Now married with five kids, their two oldest children have followed in their parents’ footsteps as camp “buddies” at Camp I Am Special, which is now a program of Catholic Charities Jacksonville.

Stephen is a stay-at-home dad and serves

on the Board of L’Arche Jacksonville. This community has created an environment where people with intellectual and physical disabilities can share their gifts and make a positive impact on the world. He is also a catechist, teaching the principles of the Christian faith, and serves on the parish council at St. Paul’s Catholic Church Riverside. Stephen serves as the volunteer director for the Secretariat with the Diocese of St. Augustine Cursillo Movement. He and Ana both volunteer for weekend retreats and monthly fellowship opportunities to live out their faith and bring others closer to God.

Ana is a psychiatrist with the University of Florida and the behavioral health director at Sulzbacher Center.

“I’m a street psychiatrist, so I go out and meet patients where they are, homeless, under a bridge, in the woods,” she said. “I go to them to remove the barrier of access, co-pays and appointments.”

The Turner children are also involved with Sulzbacher through organizing clothing drives and assembling hygiene kits.

“Our family philanthropy is a natural response to the gifts we’ve been given,” said Stephen. “Since our relationship and marriage were established through service, we want to give back.”

By Jennifer Jensen

In the short time Dawn Wilson has volunteered with Blessings in a Backpack, she has already seen the immediate impact she’s made for the community through the organization.

She began volunteering with the nonprofit less than a year ago; she currently serves as a board member for The First Coast Chapter of Blessings in a Backpack,

I was looking

for a

Dawn Wilson MEET

“I chose to get involved with Blessings in a Backpack because I was looking for a way to serve in an area where the need is great, and the impact is immediate,” Wilson said. “Ensuring children have food over the weekend is something I felt strongly compelled to support.”

Wilson has also secured silent auction items for their Annual Souper Bowl, served on the Chili Cookoff planning team and participated in packing events. During these events, volunteers assemble the backpacks filled with food that go home with the children on the weekends.

“I’m always eager to get involved in any way I can to support this great cause,” Wilson said.

Wilson believes volunteering strengthens not only the community but also

way to serve where the need is great and the impact is immediate.

– Dawn

Wilson Board Member, Blessings in

which provides weekend meals to more than 4,500 children through 45 school partners in Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties.

a Backpack

the individual, underscoring the values of compassion, teamwork and service. It also, she added, highlights the fact that everyone

has something meaningful to give – be it talent, time or simply the desire to help – in the name of building stronger communities and contributing to something bigger than yourself.

“Volunteering helps fill real needs in the community, but it also fosters connection, empathy and understanding among people

who may not otherwise cross paths,” she said. “On a personal level, volunteering allows you to grow, develop new skills, and gain perspective.”

FLASHBACK 36

Our monthly dose of neighborhood nostalgia, uncovering gems from our archives of people, places and memories of our community

Asa Philip Randolph

Contributed By

The Jacksonville History Center

Editor’s Note: “Flashbacks” is a recurring series of short vignettes contributed by the Jacksonville History Center that opens a window into history: on the people, places and moments that have shaped Jacksonville’s rich and complex history. In honor of Black History Month, February’s “Flashbacks” submission highlights Asa Philip Randolph, a nationally influential labor leader and civil rights pioneer whose roots trace back to Jacksonville.

In April 1976, the “Jacksonville Journal” ran a story about Civil Rights leader Asa Philip Randolph with the intriguing headline “Valedictorian Found Only Menial Jobs Here.” After graduating high school in 1967, Randolph held a variety of jobs including shoveling dirt, pushing

wheelbarrows in a fertilizer yard, driving a delivery wagon, and stacking logs in a lumber yard. Humble beginning for the man who was later honored as the “Father of the Civil Rights Movement.” Jacksonville’s Florida Avenue was renamed A. Philip Randolph Blvd. in 1995 and is familiar to readers as the street which runs between VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena and VyStar Ballpark.

For more information about the Jacksonville History Center Archive and Collections, visit jaxhistory.org

CELEBRATING

Black History Month

Celebrate Black History Month in Jacksonville with events that highlight Black culture, heritage and contributions. This calendar showcases opportunities to engage with art, history, conversation and community throughout February.

Saturday, Feb. 7

Riverside Arts Market Black History Month Celebration with Melanin Collaborative Group  A community celebration featuring live music, food and more than 50 Black-owned businesses, artists and vendors. | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Riverside Arts Market

Saturday, Feb. 7

Brothers Brunch Foundation Black History Month Men’s Wellness Event  A wellness-focused gathering for men centered on mental health, self-care and community connection. | 1 to 3 p.m. at Earth Salt Stone | 3915 Hendricks Ave.

Thursday, Feb. 12

The 126th Anniversary of Lift Every Voice and Sing Symposium This symposium marks the 126th anniversary of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and celebrates James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson. The evening includes a panel discussion on “Our Democracy and the Ballot.” | Meet and Greet: 5:30 p.m. Symposium: 6:30 to 8 p.m. | Jacksonville Public Library Center, | Hicks Auditorium.

Community events across Jacksonville A snapshot of the 1976 article by the “Jacksonville Journal.” Credit: The Jacksonville History Center Archives

Sunday, Feb. 15

LEVAS World Day of Worship

Join this global tribute to “Lift Every Voice and Sing” with the Friends of Brentwood Library and Rev. Kate Moorehead Carroll. | 10:30 a.m. to Noon. | St. John’s Cathedral

Saturday, Feb. 28

Exhibit Come to Life: The Untold Story of Black Mandarin Mandarin Museum has partnered with FL Blue’s ASPIRE Employee Resource Group for the third annual “Exhibit Come to Life: The Untold Story of Black Mandarin.” In addition to the exhibit, the day will offer live tours and activities. | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mandarin Museum and Walter Jones Historical Park

Saturday, Feb. 28

Black History Parade and Melanin Market

A parade and outdoor market with performances, food vendors, community organizations and local businesses. | 1 to 7 p.m. | 822 A. Philip Randolph Boulevard

Ward Lariscy

By Fabrizio Gowdy

Going from the U.S. Army to a career in interior design may be an unexpected transition, but Ward Lariscy did it seamlessly and with flair.

“I was upset that my classmates from college were all out working in the design field, and I was sitting in the Army – at least I wasn’t fighting,” said Lariscy.

Months after graduating with his bachelor’s degree in interior design from Auburn’s School of Architecture, Lariscy was drafted by the Army in 1963 and spent two

“I knew I would never be able to do much travel, because when you got a regular job, you’d probably only get two weeks off,” Lariscy explained.

In time, he’d discover just how wrong he was about his limited travel opportunities.

In 1966, Lariscy moved to Jacksonville to take a job with Ruth McGuire Interiors, earning $75 a week. A year later, he took a job as fashion director at May Cohen, a department store located in the current City Hall building downtown.

years at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. He tried his best to express some of his creativity while in the Army, decorating service clubs where soldiers would spend their free time.

Lariscy’s skill with a typewriter spared him from combat, and he spent his time as a clerk typist for Army captains. One of his superiors had such confidence in him that he’d leave blank spaces in his letters to colleagues and trust Lariscy would do a good job filling in the rest.

Lariscy has always treasured travel. In 1957, he took a class trip with approximately 150 other Savannah High School seniors, traveling by bus to Key West and taking a ferry to Havana, Cuba. He remembers attending a dogfight with his class, watching laborers harvest coconuts in the countryside, and hearing news of a revolutionary named Fidel Castro waging guerrilla warfare in the mountains of eastern Cuba.

When he got out of the Army, the first thing Lariscy did was take three months to travel extensively across Europe and North Africa.

He first lived in an apartment just north of San Marco Square, taking the bus to Hemming Plaza each morning to get to work. He later moved into a home on Balis, where he has lived for the last 52 years.

Twice a year, May Cohen sent Lariscy on antiquing trips to North Carolina and New York, where he met Princess Grace in 1979 at an invitation-only party promoting a line of sheets she’d designed. His work travel eventually expanded to include regular trips to Europe and East Asia, and Lariscy found himself on marathon flights from New York to Tokyo, Manila, Hong Kong and Taiwan with a connection in Anchorage.

In his decades as an interior designer, Lariscy’s notable projects include Mayor Jake Godbold’s office, the Garden Club of Jacksonville in Riverside and color selection for the seats at the old Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Contrary to the minimalist contemporary aesthetic he describes as the “Restoration Hardware” look, Lariscy doesn’t shy away from bold color schemes.

“I was kind of known as a traditionalist with a modern twist to it, and it’s always big in color and pattern,” said Lariscy.

In 1981, Lariscy opened his own shop in San Marco Square – The Wardroom – selling gifts and antiques. Now one of the longest tenured tenants in the Square, Lariscy still welcomes customers in with his checkered fleur-de-lis wood floor and signature bow tie. And in a touch of old-school department store charm, The Wardroom will still wrap your gifts for you in-store.

These days, Lariscy doesn’t go antiquing as much as he used to, but you can still catch him at the shop. He’s gotten into making his own greeting cards, available for purchase at The Wardroom. His cards feature everything from Trevor Lawrence at Waffle House to pictures of birds he took at Fort Mose State Park. Lariscy finds he now prefers the peace and quiet of Fort Mose to the crowds and bustle of nearby St. Augustine.

“It’s not touristy, because nobody knows about it – it’s fantastic,” said Lariscy.

Junior RESIDENTS

$115K to Expand Youth Development Programs

Four area nonprofits have received a cumulative $115,000 in grants to expand youth programming that combines athletics and academics, thanks to a new collaboration between The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, the Heisman Trophy Trust, and the New York Community Trust.

“Northeast Florida is home to many exceptional youth programs that help young people succeed both on and off the field,” said Foundation President Isaiah M. Oliver. “We’re thankful to the Heisman Trophy Trust for extending their support to Florida for the very first time.”

The grant recipients are:

• MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation - $40,000 “to expand coaching and tutoring staff for after-school and summer opportunities serving students in the nonprofit’s Jacksonville-based tennis programs.”

• Police Athletic League of Jacksonville - $40,000 “to expand academic support for students in JaxPAL’s afterschool academic and sports programming and provide additional scholarships for participation in competitive sports.”

• Game Face 4:13 Training Academy - $20,000 “to use basketball as a motivator to help kids in Jacksonville’s Arlington neighborhood develop educationally, physically and spiritually.”

• The Protential Foundation - $15,000 “to expand by 20% the number of youth served in the program, which enhances literacy proficiency and, in partnership with Ancient City Soccer Club, provides scholarships and developmental pathways to children from underserved communities in St. Johns County.”

Girls Lead the Way at Assumption Catholic School Science Fair

Eighth grade students finished off the year by showcasing their creativity and scientific aptitude during Assumption Catholic School’s annual Science Fair.

Held on Dec. 11, the fair granted participants the opportunity to dazzle judges with their thoughtful and curiosity-driven projects. While winter break was just over a week away, young scientists at Assumption identified their problems, posed their hypotheses and conducted experiments to prove or disprove them, creating projects to present everything to the judges.

Ultimately, eighth graders Leona Movilla-Diago and Madison Sellers took first place for their project, “Soil Sleuths;” Elizabeth Randolph was awarded second for her project, “A Sun Safe Shirt;” and Ariana and Sabrina Carrasco took third place for their project, “Does Water Make a Rocket Fly Farther?”

Chapel Honors Fathers

Fathers and father figures of Pre-K3 through fifth grade students for special chapel services at Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s St. Mark’s Campus last month. Held on Jan. 15, the services provided meaningful opportunities for worship, reflection and family connection during the school day. During the services, Reverend Adam Greene, head of school, shared remarks about the influence fathers and father figures have on the children. Students gifted special handmade crafts to their guests of honor in heartfelt expressions of gratitude and appreciation.

Debutantes Make Final Bow at Annual Presentation and Christmas Ball

The 2025 Debutantes made their final bow during the Presentation and Christmas Ball held Dec. 18 at The Florida Yacht Club. The formal event marked the culmination of the debutantes’ presentation season and brought families and guests together for the traditional celebration.

The debutantes were presented during the evening program and posed for a formal group portrait following the presentation.

Senior Earns All-State Honor

Jackie Xie, a senior at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, performed at the 2026 Florida Music Education Association’s All-State Orchestra at its annual conference in January.

This highly competitive program brings together the top student musicians from across the state to rehearse and perform under the direction of renowned music educators and conductors. To be eligible for consideration for the All-State Orchestra, students must undergo a rigorous application process, preparing and submitting audition recordings in the fall.

“Making the All-State Orchestra is a major honor and reflects exceptional dedication, skill, and musical growth,” said Greg Hersey, ESJ Director of Instrumental Music. “This experience not only celebrates musical excellence but also fosters collaboration and inspiration among the most talented young musicians in Florida. Congratulations to Jackie on this remarkable achievement.”

Bishop Kenny Seniors Complete Joe Berg Seminars

Bishop Kenny High School seniors Brady Wagner and Jacob Valenzuela recently completed the Joe Berg Seminars at the University of North Florida. Both students have been Joe Berg scholars since their sophomore year.

As part of the program, Wagner and Valenzuela attended seminars at UNF several times each month, engaging with leaders, researchers and speakers in the sciences and humanities. The students participated in the Joe Berg Seminars graduation ceremony, marking the completion of the program and a milestone in their academic careers.

Assumption Catholic Student Advances to Duval County Spelling Bee

After 16 rounds, seventh grader Rubana Medhanie took first place at Assumption Catholic School’s spelling bee, held in conjunction with the Scripps National Spelling Bee, in December.

Medhanie is joined by fifth grader Eyuel Gebreyesus (second place) and seventh grader Nora Farhat (third place) as the top performers amongst the 12 participants at the Dec. 3 competition. With this victory, Medhanie will now advance to the preliminary rounds of the Duval County Spelling Bee.

A Sacred Stage for Jacksonville Children’s Chorus Touring Choir

The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus Touring Choir rang in the new year with a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Vatican City, performing for Pope Leo XIV.

The performance followed Vespers in the iconic St. Peter’s Square, following the Pope’s blessing of the nativity scene. The choir also had the opportunity to perform at the Vatican during Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.

These performances were part of the Touring Choir’s 2025 Winter Tour, which also included performances in Florence and Assisi, capping off a year of hard work and dedication with memories that will last a lifetime for these young singers.

Bricked for Success

First Lego League team The Byte Side has earned the opportunity to represent The Bolles School once again as it advances to the Florida Robot Rally Invitational Tournament.

The team earned this bid after demonstrating exceptional skill, teamwork and spirit at the Northeast Regional Championships, which took place on Dec. 18 to 20.

Gabi Fudge, Bolles Robotics coach, praised the middle schoolers for their commitment to achieving their personal best throughout the season.

“Their strong focus on Core Values guided every step of the journey, from collaboration and gracious professionalism to perseverance and creativity,” said Fudge. “The team made remarkable strides in both their Innovation Project and Robot Design Presentations, showing dramatic improvement and confidence. Every member demonstrated impressive growth in engineering, research and innovation skills, reflecting countless hours of effort, curiosity and problem solving.”

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.

Crusader Wrestling Celebrates 50 Year Milestone

Last month marked the 50th anniversary of Bishop Kenny High School’s wrestling program, a milestone celebrated with a full day honoring athletic excellence, school pride and a tradition that has become a cornerstone of the school’s sports culture. The anniversary brought together generations of wrestlers, coaches and supporters to reflect on five decades of competition and camaraderie.

The celebration began with a reception in the Betty and Jack Demetree Family Athletic Training Center, where alumni toured the school’s new wrestling room and state-of-the-art training facilities. Festivities continued at the John A. Baldwin Athletic Center as the Bishop Kenny Crusaders faced Episcopal High School. Following a Crusaders victory, alumni gathered at Mudville Grille to close out the milestone celebration.

Bolles Honors Hunt Family at Soccer Complex Groundbreaking

The Bolles School celebrated the groundbreaking of the Hunt Soccer Complex on Jan. 6, a historic project that will continue to elevate its athletic program and enhance student-athlete experiences for generations to come.

The 4,000-square-foot project was made possible through Melissa Hunt and her son, Lincoln, with the first major gift earmarked specifically for the boys’ and girls’ soccer program. Once completed, the Hunt Soccer Complex will include a covered area and tunnel leading players onto George H. Hodges Field on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus. It will also feature new locker rooms for both soccer teams, restrooms and a dedicated head coach’s office.

The Jan. 6 groundbreaking celebration also honored Harvey Hunt, Lincoln’s father and Melissa’s late husband.

“This is more than a soccer complex – it’s a statement about the strength of our community and the vision we share for Bolles athletics,” said Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges. “We are deeply grateful to the Hunt family for making this dream a reality.”

Additional pivotal contributors for this project include the Block family.

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.

Frank Stanley Cerveny

Remembered for a life of service marked by humility, courage and enduring faith

June 4, 1933 – January 7, 2026

Rt. Rev. Frank S. Cerveny, sixth Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Florida, passed away on Jan. 7, 2026. He was 92 years old.

Cerveny was born to Frank Charles Cerveny and Julia Victoria Ludwig Cerveny in Ludlow, Mass. His family attended Christ Church Cathedral, where he sang in the choir as a boy. Cerveny married his wife, Emmy Pettway Cerveny, and together they raised three children in the home they created here in Jacksonville along the St. Johns River. They were married for 64 years; Cerveny often said Emmy was the one who taught him to love life.

Frank graduated cum laude from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and though he was accepted to Yale Law School, he chose to attend General Theological Seminary. He graduated with honors and later received five honorary doctorates.

In 1958, Frank began his ordained ministry at the Church of the Resurrection in suburban Miami Shores before moving on to New York City’s Trinity Parish in 1960, where he became deeply involved with inner-city work, particularly among the poor of Brooklyn, Chinatown, and Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Three years later, he was called to Jackson, Tennessee. While there, he worked tirelessly for the integration of churches and racial

Thomas Palmer Davis

reconciliation at the height of segregation. The Cerveny family moved to Knoxville in 1968, where Frank assisted in forming an ecumenical coalition to foster missional partnerships across the city while ministering at St. John’s Church.

In 1972, Frank became Dean of St. John’s Cathedral in Jacksonville; in 1974, he was consecrated as Bishop of Florida.

Bishop Cerveny’s life reflected the Gospel he preached –marked by vision, unity, and compassion. He strengthened the Diocese of Florida, supported healing and outreach ministries, and walked alongside the marginalized. His steady, faith-filled leadership left an enduring imprint on the Church near and far.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, June Hammett and Gloria Falcone; and his beloved grandson, Clay Norum Block Cerveny.

He is survived by his wife, Emmy; by their three children, Frank S. Cerveny, Jr. (Gretchen), Emmy Cerveny Gilbert (Barritt), and William “Billy” DeMoville Pettway Cerveny (Charla); and by grandchildren William Barritt Gilbert, Jr. (Sophie), Anne-Elizabeth Patten Gilbert Garza (Luis ), Thomas Cerveny Gilbert, Mary Harbin Gilbert, Frank Charles Cerveny, Katherine Grace Cerveny, Emmy Lampley Cerveny, William “Wiley” DeMoville Pettway Cerveny, Jr., Carolina Scout Cerveny. September 23, 1956 – December 14, 2025

Thomas Palmer Davis was born to Dr. James McCorkle Davis and Susan Palmer Davis on Sept. 23, 1956. He died suddenly in a boating accident on Dec. 14.

Thomas attended Fishweir Elementary School. In 1974, he graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School before attending Virginia Tech, where he earned a bachelor’s degree from its School of Forestry. He went on to earn a master’s degree in city planning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Business Administration (finance) from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

It was in Chapel Hill that Thomas discovered what would become a lifelong passion for Tar Heel basketball, rivaled only by his love for the Boston Red Sox and the Florida Gators.

Upon returning to Jacksonville, Thomas received his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, launching a long career in investment management across several companies, including Independent Life Insurance Company, American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Barnett Banks and JEA, from which he retired in 2022.

Thomas was an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. He was an active volunteer with several community and nonprofit organizations, including Learn to Read, where he volunteered as a tutor and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, where he served on the vestry.

Thomas loved music, particularly “real” rock and roll, classical symphony and the Beatles. He cherished the time spent with his family at High Hampton in the North Carolina Mountains.

Thomas was known for his funny, dry wit, humility and sweet, gentle nature. He was a loving husband to Julie, his wife of 37 years, and a devoted father to his daughters, Brooke and Susan. His favorite title, though, was “Tom Tom” to his grandsons, Benedetto and Oliver.

Tommy was predeceased by his parents and his nephew, Thomas Palmer Baker. He is survived by his wife, Julia Brooke Davis (“Julie”), his daughters Julia Brooke Davis Lupo (Ben) and Susan Palmer Davis Kisluk (Sylvester), his grandsons Benedetto Thomas Lupo and Oliver Davis Lupo, and his siblings, James McCorkle Davis, III (Mildred), Anne Davis Baker (John), Katherine Davis Marple and Rebecca Davis McKee (Will), and many beloved nieces and nephews and their children.

Linda Gayle Coarsey Ennis

Remembered for her devotion to family and her love for all animals

December 26, 1938 — January 10, 2026

Linda Gayle Coarsey Ennis, lifelong resident of Jacksonville and its Westside, died on Jan. 10, 2026 at the age of 87. She is preceded in death by her parents Elliot Boyd Coarsey Sr. and Lorena Janice Coarsey, brother Elliot Boyd Coarsey Jr., husband of 64 years Emory Clark “Buddy” Ennis, and son-in-law Larry Vernon Sablich. She is survived by her children Emory Clark “Bunky” Ennis, Jr. (Debbie) Cheryl Lynn Sablich, Janice Lorraine Reid, and Melanie Lauren DePasquale (Jay), seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, sister Jan Jo King, sister -in-law Marsha Coarsey, a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors and a few cats.

Gayle loved her westside home and family, baking, Atlantic Beach, music, caring for neighbors in need, walking and her pets – of which there were many and varied. She was a soughtafter Weight Watchers Leader for many years. Gayle was also a faithful donor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville, Fla. on Saturday March 7th at 11:00 a.m., with a reception at the church immediately following. The address is 4758 Shelby Ave. Jacksonville, FL. 32210. Because of her undeniable love for all animals, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Jacksonville Humane Society jaxhumane.org and Springfield Kitty Cat Shack Rescue sprkittycatshack.org are respectfully requested.