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Record & Observer STAY AT HOME
Florida Gov. DeSantis orders residents to limit activites to “essential services.” MayorJACKSONVILLE Curry orders all nonessential businesses to close by 12:01 a.m. April 3.
Record & Observer
BY MIKE MENDENHALL STAFF WRITER
Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry is ordering all nonessential businesses in Duval County to close and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a statewide stayat-home order. Both executive orders takes effect at 12:01 a.m. April 3. Curry’s “Safer at Home’ order excludes businesses the city deems essential during the coronavirus pandemic, including health care facilities, grocery stores, manufacturing facilities and restaurants offering food for delivery and takeout. The executive Curry orders do not mean a full lockdown. Curry said in a virtual news conference April 1 that in addition to leaving their home for essential needs and services, people still can go outside for recreation while maintaining social distancing guidelines. “While we are confident that citizens will be much safer at home in the coming weeks, I want to make it clear that this executive order does not restrict people’s ability to go outside to take a walk or ride a bike,” Curry said. “This only prevents residents from traveling to businesses deemed nonessential.” Under Curry’s order, city-operated
JACKSONVILLE
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SEE ORDERS, PAGE 8
WHAT’S ESSENTIAL A list of the businesses that can remain open in Duval County after Mayor Curry’s order. Page 8
Special to the Daily Record
Gov. Ron DeSantis said April 1 he is ordering Florida residents to restrict their activities to “essential services” to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Economist says housing will help Florida recover from shutdown Wells Fargo Senior Economist Mark Vitner said the region’s economy “had really hits its stride” before COVID-19 shutdown.
BY MARK BASCH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Last week brought two economic reports that shed light on the state of the Jacksonville area economy. One was the monthly report showing continued low unemployment in February, indicating how strong the Northeast Florida economy has been – up until now.
The other more timely report on weekly claims for unemployment insurance showed a Vitner surge in Florida, indicating how everything changed in March. “The one thing you can glean
from the data is that Florida’s economy was growing full throttle prior to when the COVID-19 pandemic intensified,” Wells Fargo Senior Economist Mark Vitner said by email. “Then most activity came to a sudden stop.” The unemployment rate in the Jacksonville metropolitan area SEE VITNER, PAGE 8
THE BAR BULLETIN
Stay informed and stay positive amid pandemic Plus: Message from the JBA president. PAGE 10 OLUME 107, NO. 36 • TWO SECTIONS
2
WHAT’S TRENDING
JACKSONVILLE DAILY RECORD / J ACKSONVILLE RECORD & OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
Big news doesn’t break just on Thursday. Here’s a look at some of the top stories published over the past week online at JaxDailyRecord.com and in the Jacksonville Daily Record that you may have missed.
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City, VyStar to partner on loan program The city announced a partnership March 31 with VyStar Credit Union on a loan program to help small businesses struggling to remain viable because of the coronavirus pandemic. Mayor Lenny Curry said the city will contribute $20 million to $30 million to the plan to be used in a combination of grants, interest payments and potential aid toward loan principals. He said some elements of the assistance will be tied to employee retention. The administration is drafting leg-
islation for the program and plans to introduce it to Council by next week. More details will be released after the bill is finalized. Curry told the Council the program is aimed to keep businesses open and retain employees. Curry also signed an executive order restricting Duval County hotels from accepting reservations from “nonessential lodgers” to limit the spread of COVID-19. The order does not apply to vacation rental properties.
RETAIL It is also cutting about half of the 375 employees in its corporate office at 1200 Riverplace Blvd. on the Downtown Southbank. In addition, it said it is reducing executive management salaries by 20% and cutting the pay of other remaining workers at a lower rate.
Editorial content focuses on news and trends, with a concentration on development, real estate, construction, law, companies, economic and industry trends and how local and state government affects business.
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PRESS RELEASE/INQUIRY/REPRINTS
DEVELOPMENT Daily’s gas station could be coming Downtown JEA is reviewing a service availability request for First Coast Energy to develop a Daily’s gas station and convenience store Downtown. The March 25 request identifies the 1.4-acre block bounded by Bay, Broad,
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Stein Mart furloughing most of its employees Stein Mart Inc. is extending the closing of its 281 stores and is cutting staff and compensation as it deals with the impact of COVID-19. The Jacksonville-based fashion retailer said it is furloughing most of the 8,600 employees in its stores and in its supply chain.
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Forsyth and Jefferson streets. A former bank drive-thru at 60 N. Broad St. built in 1976 and a threestory building, a former nightclub, at 618 W. Forsyth St. built in 1914 are on the site.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
Becknell planning speculative warehouse
The 477,000-squarefoot development is in Westlake Industrial Park.
This map shows where Becknell Industrial is developing in Westlake Industrial Park.
Becknell Industrial is preparing a site at Westlake Industrial Park to build a 477,000-squarefoot speculative warehouse along Pritchard Road. The St. Johns River Water
Management District issued a permit March 19 to Pritchard Road Florida Becknell Investors II LLC to authorize the construction and operation of a stormwater management system for a
Special to the Daily Record
RETAIL NOTES PetSuites to Argyle: JEA issued a service availability letter for PetSuites Jacksonville, a 10,000-square-foot pet-boarding facility at 7403 Argyle Forest Blvd. Louisville, Kentucky-based PetSuites has more than 30 facilities, including two in Florida in Bradenton and Winter Springs. They offer boarding, grooming, day care and puppy preschool. Five Below to River City Marketplace: The city issued a permit for the $496,731 tenant build-out of 10,090 square feet of space for Five Below at 13141 City Station Drive, No. 101, at River City Marketplace.
118.33-acre project. The project is known as Westlake Industrial Lot 21. Guy Preston, executive director of Colliers International Florida, said
AutoZone to Dunn Avenue: JEA issued a service availability letter for a 7,381-square-foot AutoZone store at 6765 Dunn Ave.
develops Dollar General stores.
Chase signs: The city approved four signs for Chase Bank at 112 W. Adams St. Dollar General stores: JEA issued two service availability letters to Concept Development Inc. of Gainesville. One is for a 9,100-square-foot retail store on 1.34 vacant acres at southeast Main and 50th streets. Another is for a 9,100-squarefoot retail store along Normandy Boulevard between Interstate 295 and Cecil Commerce Center Parkway. A third is in review for Yulee. Concept Development
Gate Carwash to Oakleaf: The city is reviewing a permit for Gate Express Carwash to build a 4,381-square-foot car wash and accessory structures at almost $1.5 million at 8215 Old Middleburg Road S. in the Oakleaf area.
DEVELOPMENT NOTES Baptist Health to add parking: Baptist Health Properties Inc. filed plans with the St. Johns River Water Management District to convert 2.57 acres it owns at 1650 Prudential Drive into parking.
ciate Director Seda Preston announced they brokered the sale of 171 acres, entitled for 1.5 million square feet of development rights, to Becknell Industrial for $9 million. The Prestons represent Becknell in landlord leasing and property management. Becknell, based in Lyons, Illinois, is an active landlord in the market. Last week Cardinal Health said it intends to relocate its West Jacksonville medical products distribution center this summer from Perimeter West Industrial Park into a Becknell building in Westlake Industrial Park.
THE MATHIS REPORT
KAREN BRUNE MATHIS EDITOR
March 26 the permit will advance the development of a 477,000-square-foot speculative building, although there is no development date. On March 11, the city issued a development number for the project, called Building No. 1, at 477,362 square feet. The site is allocated for up to 1,536,800 square feet under a previous city development number. Site plans filed with the city application show three proposed buildings comprising the 477,362-square-foot one with a potential expansion of 561,371 square feet to total almost 1.04 million square feet and two more buildings – No. 2 at 140,130 and No. 3 at 194,400 square feet. In December, Preston and Colliers International Asso-
KMATHIS@ JAXDAILYRECORD.COM @MATHISKB (904) 356-2466
Caliber Collision to South Jacksonville: Caliber Collision intends to build a vehicle body repair shop on 2.3 acres at 11556 Philips Highway. The city issued a permit March 2 for STG Contracting Group Inc. to build the 18,554-squarefoot building at a cost of $1.6 million. Apartments to Philips Highway: The city is reviewing a permit application for Burkhalter Wrecking Inc. to demolish the former Masterfit Golf Teaching and Fitting Academy at 14055 Philips Highway. Houston-based Stanmore Partners LLC, through Jax Philips Hwy Apts LLC, paid $5.36 million for the 19.13 acres and proposes the 280-unit Stanmore Wells Creek apartments.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
JaxDailyRecord.com
Regency Centers
Regency Centers operates Brooklyn Station on Riverside and 16 more shopping centers in Northeast Florida.
Regency Centers working with tenants seeking relief As retailers face April 1 rent due dates, the landlord is “reviewing every single request.” BY KAREN BRUNE MATHIS EDITOR
As April 1 approached, retail tenants faced rent payments. Jacksonville-based Regency Centers Corp., which owns 419 shopping centers nationwide, said tenants are asking for relief. “As you might imagine, we are getting a large number of requests regarding rent. They range from almost every type of use,” said Eric Davidson, senior manager of
communications. He by email March 30 that Regency Centers is gathering and organizing the requests to address them personally with the merchants. “Making a broad-stroke decision doesn’t take into consideration the varied and individual needs of each one of our retailers across the country,” Davidson said. “This is why we are reviewing every single request coming in and working directly with each owner for the best solution we can, given these unprecedented circumstances.” Regency Centers, whose predecessor company was founded in 1963, owns properties across the country with more than 9,000
tenants. It operates Brooklyn Station on Riverside and 16 more shopping centers in Northeast Florida. The real estate investment trust’s more than 56 million square feet of retail space is more than 95 percent leased, according to a fourth-quarter 2019 investor presentation. Regency Centers said 80% of its properties are anchored by grocery stores. Davidson said Regency’s grocery anchors and drugstores are seeing an increase in demand for essentials. “We also have many other essential uses in our portfolio, including banks, medical, pet, office, and hardware,” he said.
Marital/ Family Law
“We just hope everyone is staying safe and responsible,” Davidson said. KMATHIS@JAXDAILYRECORD.OM @MATHISKB (904) 356-2466
2020
The Jacksonville Daily Record and Jacksonville Record & Observer’s Law Day special section is designed to recognize Northeast Florida’s legal community during Law Week, with community service events designed to foster camaraderie in the legal profession while giving something back to the community.
Mark M. Green, Esquire
• “Super Lawyers” Top Attorneys in Florida Included since 2007
Lakeland-based Publix Super Markets Inc. announced March 27 it is offering rent relief to businesses operating in Publix-owned shopping centers that have closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Property records show that Publix owns part or all of seven shopping centers in Duval County. Publix said the relief package includes waiving rent for two months, as well as waiving payments for common area maintenance fees and taxes, regardless of the tenant’s access to other relief or assistance. Duval County records list Publix as an owner in Publix Plaza and Arlington River in Arlington; OakLeaf Plantation Center in the Argyle-Oakleaf area; Reedy Branch Commons in Baymeadows; Middle Beach Commons in Jacksonville Beach; Deerwood Village Shopping Center in Deerwood; and Duval Station in North Jacksonville. Publix owns its store at Dames Pointe, also in Arlington.
The Law Day edition offers your business the unique opportunity to reach the Jacksonville legal community.
Practice areas: • Martindale-Hubbell AV rating
Publix offering rent relief
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It is our belief that family law matters are especially sensitive and emotionally consuming for clients. We are responsive to clients and return telephone calls in a timely and prompt manner because your concerns are our priority. Our family law team strives to provide the best service and advice based on forty (40) years of experience with family law cases. We believe that professionalism, together with hard work, will produce the desired results expected by clients.
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“I should also mention how grateful we are for all of the people working hard every day, the grocery clerks, the stockers, the bank tellers, the veterinarians, and list goes on, who are putting in a heroic effort to keep their communities supplied with the essentials.” Davidson said other retailers are “getting creative and utilizing new strategies to reach the customer,” especially restaurants and eateries. He said Regency Centers launched a “Social Distancing, Made Easier.” campaign to alert local communities about the retailers who are providing food and services as well as delivery options. President Donald Trump extended social-distancing guidelines through April. “The federal guidelines will certainly be followed, but we expect the greater effect to come from the local and state governments as they determine their timelines for reemergence from the pandemic,” Davidson said. “We remain hopeful that the curve will flatten in April, but it is prudent that we make sure we are constantly evaluating the current conditions in each of our locations.” Davidson said Regency Centers is doing what it can to help retailers on an individual basis, including connecting them with resources that can help mitigate some of the impacts of COVID-19. It links to those resources and its business update at regencycenters.com. The Florida section links to the Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, the Business Damage Assessment Survey and the websites of the state and the Florida Department of Health.
• Who’s Who in Law • Professionalism Award Family Law Inns of Court
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BY SCOTT SAILER • STAFF WRITER
Here are the top 10 single-family residential real estate sales in Northeast Florida, comprising Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. The sales were recorded March 23-29.
ST. JOHNS
NASSAU
$1,250,000
$1,137,500
3185 Bishop Estates Road, Saint Johns
20 Salt Marsh Drive, Fernandina Beach
Type: Single-family Lot size: 2 acres House size: 5,321 square feet Buyer: Mark D. and Casey L. Bedard Seller: Colin K. and Julie C. Campbell Previous sale: $975,000 in 2014
Type: Single-family Lot size: 1.08 acres House size: 3,700 square feet Buyer: Jeffrey C. and Darlene S. Spence Seller: Michael and Sandra M. Clower
ST. JOHNS
$1,250,000 256 Royal Tern Road N., Ponte Vedra Beach
ST. JOHNS
$4,525,000
Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.4 acres House size: 4,064 square feet Buyer: Ronald Racho and Stephanie Ortman Seller: Todd and Stacey Anderson Previous sale: $940,000 in 2018
24729 Harbour View Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach About the property: Intracoastal home on Harbour Island with 15,000 square feet under roof. Three buildings connected by verandas feature seven bedrooms, 6½ baths, office, media room, gym, fireplaces, balcony, courtyard, summer kitchen, pool, spa and putting green.
Type: Single-family Lot size: 1.44 acres House size: 9,585 square feet Buyer: James T. and Patricia H. London Seller: Frederick and Sharon L. Funk
ST. JOHNS DUVAL
ST. JOHNS
ST. JOHNS
$4,085,000
$2,310,000
$1,450,000
3935 Duval Drive, Jacksonville Beach
52 St. George St., St. Augustine
Old A1A, St. Augustine
Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.25 acres House size: 4,699 square feet Buyer: Dean J. and Carrie A. Curtis Seller: John D. and Eleanor C. Lock
Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.09 acres House size: 3,842 square feet Buyer: St. George Street Ventures LLC Seller: Crawbuck Homes Inc.
Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.24 acres House size: 5,130 square feet Buyer: Peaceful Destination Properties-St. Augustine LLC Seller: Randy and Jennifer Safranek Previous sale: $827,700 in 2011
$1,175,000 103 Tiffany Court, Ponte Vedra Beach Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.45 acres House size: 4,589 square feet Buyer: William S. and Alissa C. Urkiel Seller: Sandra K. Wollard and the Sandra K. Wollard Living Trust
5
THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
DUVAL
$1,125,000 11457 E. Fort George Road, Jacksonville Type: Single-family Lot size: 2.4 acres House size: 5,115 square feet Buyer: Michael R. and Heather A. Smith Seller: Carl N. and Rita R. Cannon and the Carl N. Cannon Living Trust
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
Top 10 home sales of week
|
ST. JOHNS
$1,125,000 3120 Timberlake Point, Ponte Vedra Beach Type: Single-family Lot size: 0.47 acres House size: 4,144 square feet Buyer: Kimberley A. Collins and the Mark P. Collins Family Trust Seller: Daniel and Ronda Dowling Previous sale: $925,000 in 2018
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
JaxDailyRecord.com
MARK BASCH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
What seemed unusual a year ago will become the norm this year because of COVID-19. Just three weeks after filing a proxy statement for its annual meeting at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Regency Centers Corp. changed course. The Jacksonville-based shopping center developer announced March 30 that instead of inviting shareholders to the resort’s conference facilities, it will instead hold the meeting online “due to the emerging public health impact of COVID-19 and to protect the safety of participants.” A year ago, it seemed like an unusual step when CSX Corp. decided to hold an online -only annual meeting, a policy opposed by shareholder rights advocates. While companies say shareholders are given the same access to management and board members through the internet that they would have in a normal meeting, shareholder advocates argue it doesn’t have the same impact of meeting officials face-to-face. However, in the new COVID-19 reality, virtual annual meetings likely will become the norm this year. Last year, CSX told the Daily Record and Record & Observer its virtual meeting would allow access to shareholders anywhere in the world “while substantially reducing the costs associated with hosting an in-person meeting.” CSX has again scheduled a virtual meeting but this year, the Jacksonville-based railroad company doesn’t really have to explain why it makes sense. “The world is facing unprecedented disruption caused by COVID-19. In addition to the significant health and safety impact that individuals are experiencing, we are
succeed Kincaid as chairman. Fraser is president of consulting firm Sackett Partners.
“Not surprisingly, we will be using an online, virtual meeting format again this year to facilitate expanded shareholder access and participation.”
Rayonier curtails Canada production
JIM FOOTE, CSX CEO
also sensitive to the fact that this disruption has negatively affected our stakeholders,” CEO Jim Foote said in a letter to shareholders in last week’s proxy filing. “CSX is continuing to respond to this global crisis through comprehensive measures to protect our employees while fulfilling our vital role in the nation’s supply chain,” he said. “Not surprisingly, we will be using an online, virtual meeting format again this year to facilitate expanded shareholder access and participation.” Regency will hold its virtual meeting April 29. CSX’s meeting is May 6.
Tegna confirms it is in buyout talks Tegna Inc. broke its silence on continued reports about buyout offers, announcing March 29 it “received four unsolicited acquisition proposals in recent weeks.” The television broadcaster, without naming any bidders, said it engaged in discussions with two of the parties “before the recent market dislocation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and both subsequently informed Tegna that they were ceasing discussions.” Tegna said the other two parties did not sign confidentiality agreements to receive due diligence information and haven’t given any information on financing. The company said it “does not intend to update this disclosure.” Tegna owns 62 U.S. television stations, including Jacksonville NBC affiliate WTLV TV-12 and ABC affiliate WJXX TV-25. Reports from major financial
news services said that Gray Television Inc. withdrew its offer for Tegna early in March. After Tegna’s announcement, Bloomberg News reported Apollo Global Management was the second company to drop out. Private equity firm Nafaji Cos. and religious broadcaster Trinity Broadcasting Network announced a joint bid for Tegna on March 17. News reports have said television producer Byron Allen is the other interested party. Tegna’s stock fell as much as $3.60 to $9.61 on Monday morning after issuing its news release Sunday night, March 29. That was the lowest price since Tegna split up with newspaper publishing business Gannett Co. in 2015.
Rayonier Chairman Richard Kincaid dies Rayonier Inc. last week said board Chairman Richard Kincaid died unexpectedly March 20. Kincaid, 58, had served on Rayonier’s board since 2004 and became chairman when the real estate and timber company split up with performance fibers company Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. in 2014. Kincaid Kincaid was a real estate executive and most recently founder and CEO of Sage Vertical Gardens LLC, a company that designs “living walls” of plant life for offices and homes. Rayonier appointed Dod Fraser, a director since 2014, to
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Shoe Carnival earnings rise Like other retailers, Shoe Carnival Inc.’s 392 brickand-mortar stores are closed because of COVID-19. But the footwear chain controlled by former Jacksonville Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver last week reported strong fourth-quarter results. Total sales for the fourth quarter ended Feb. 1 rose 2.2% to $239.9 million and comparable-store sales (sales at stores open for more than one year) rose 3.2%. Earnings grew to 24 cents a share, up from 9 cents in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018. Shoe Carnival’s full-year earnings of $2.92 a share, up from $2.45 in fiscal 2018, beat its own forecasts. The company had been projecting earnings of $2.77 to $2.83 a share but upgraded the forecast to $2.85 to $2.89 when it announced third quarter earnings in November. Because of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, Shoe Carnival said it is not provid-
SunTrust analyst upgrades FIS SunTrust Robinson Humphrey analyst Andrew Jeffrey lowered his earnings estimates March 30 for Fidelity National Information Services Inc., or FIS. However, Jeffrey raised his rating on FIS from “hold” to “buy,” saying the Jacksonvillebased company is better positioned than other financial technology companies to withstand a COVID-19 recession. FIS last year expanded its merchant payment technology business by acquiring Worldpay Inc. However, the company still gets almost two-thirds of its revenue from its financial institutions and capital markets technology segments, Jeffrey said in his report. “These two segments will prove materially less cyclical than Merchant, in our opinion,” he said. “Further, we believe legacy Worldpay is at least as well insulated from demand destruction as any other publicly traded processor,” with much of its business coming from big box retailers and e-commerce, he said. FIS’ stock rose $5.19 to $125.19 on March 30 after Jeffrey’s upgrade, but the stock still is below its record high of $158.21 in February before the market meltdown. Jeffrey set a $140 price target for the stock. MBASCH@ JAXDAILYRECORD.COM
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Jacksonville-based Rayonier Advanced Materials last week said it curtailed production at seven Canadian softwood sawmills and newsprint plants for at least two weeks in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The company said its high purity cellulose facilities in the U.S., Canada and France are remaining open because they are considered “essential businesses” producing raw materials for pharmaceutical, food and cleaning products. CEO Paul Boynton said in a news release its production includes “key raw materials to state agencies to produce hand sanitizer due to severe supply constraints for this product.” Rayonier AM had been struggling before COVID-19 with depressed commodity prices affecting its results. The company reported a loss from continuing operations of $119 million in 2019. The company did not say how the shutdown of the Canadian plants will impact its financial results.
ing earnings forecasts for fiscal 2020. But CEO Cliff Sifford said the company is in a good financial position. “From a corporate standpoint, our strong balance sheet and prudent expense management provides us the financial flexibility to keep our steady footing during this challenging economic time,” Sifford said in a news release. “In addition, our long-standing vendor relationships and proven history of good inventory management enables us to remain agile. These are both critical attributes in a dynamic environment,” he said. Weaver is chairman of the Evansville, Indiana-based company and the largest shareholder. His family controls about 34% of the stock.
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THE BASCH REPORT
Virtual annual meetings the new normal
JACKSONVILLE DAILY RECORD / JACKSONVILLE RECORD & OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
BY SCOTT SAILER • STAFF WRITER
Here are the top 10 commercial real estate sales in Northeast Florida, comprising Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. The sales were recorded March 23-29.
File image
Victoria at Orange Park Apartments at 1710 Wells Road in Orange Park sold for $37.1 million, 81% more than the $20.5 million the property sold for in September 2015.
CLAY
DUVAL
ST JOHNS
DUVAL
DUVAL
$37,100,000
$25,425,000
$5,650,000
$3,410,000
$2,450,000
1710 Wells Road, Orange Park
6590 Pritchard Road, Jacksonville
St. Johns Parkway, Saint Johns
Gran Bay Parkway, Jacksonville
5675 Akra Ave., Jacksonville
Type: Victoria at Orange Park Apartments Parcel size: 19.98 acres Buyer: REVA Victoria Park LLC Seller: Victoria at Orange Park LLC Previous sale: $20,500,000 in 2015
Type: Crossroads Distribution Center Parcel size: 104.75 acres Building size: 297,067 square feet Buyer: BCORE Crossroads Owner LLC Seller: Crossjax Distribution LLC
Type: Undeveloped medical use Parcel size: Not available Buyer: Baptist Health Properties Inc. Seller: Whites Ford Timber LLC
Type: Undeveloped Parcel size: Not available Buyer: KB Home Jacksonville LLC Seller: Flagler REI LLC
Type: Monroe Manor apartments Parcel size: Not available Units: 41 Buyer: SamChez CM 41 Jacksonville LLC Seller: Monroe Manor LLC Previous sale: $1,400,000 in 2015
DUVAL
DUVAL
ST. JOHNS
DUVAL
ST. JOHNS
$1,998,015
$1,300,200
$675,000
$620,000
$597,774
1121 Suemac Road, Jacksonville
630 S. Second St., Jacksonville Beach
1148 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach
765 Mill Creek Road, Jacksonville
100 Front Line Drive, St. Augustine
Type: Undeveloped truck sales and service Parcel size: 12.23 acres Buyer: Kenworth of Jacksonville Inc. Seller: N.G. Wade Investment Co.
Type: Apartments Parcel size: 0.12 acres Buyer: Lotus Commercial USA Seller: Clerk of Courts
Type: Vacant residential lot Parcel size: 0.72 acres Buyer: Legacy Builders of North Florida Inc. Seller: JNM PV BLVD LLC
Type: Office Parcel size: 0.8 acres Building size: 8,394 square feet Buyer: Viper CBO LLC Seller: Becky and Michael Hurley Previous sale: $560,000 in 2019
Type: Grand Villas at World Golf Village timeshare condominiums Parcel size: Not available Buyer: Vacation Trust Inc. Seller: Bluegreen Vacations Unlimited Inc.
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COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Top commercial sales of the week
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and private boat ramps, marinas and docks will remain open. “I know that this is a major decision that will have major impacts on the lives of citizens throughout Jacksonville,” Curry said. “But my top priority as mayor is your health and safety.” DeSantis told reporters less than three hours after Curry’s announcement that he was issuing the statewide stay-at-home order. DeSantis said his order is meant to “limit movement and personal interaction outside the home.” He said the order would restrict Florida residents from leaving their homes except to seek essential services and needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends keeping at least 6 feet between people, and only gather in closed family and friend groups no larger than 10 individuals. ESSENTIAL ACTIVITIES
In his order, DeSantis outlined what are considered essential activities. Outdoor recreational activities such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running and swimming are permitted; caring for pets, family and friends; and attending religious services. The order said more essential activities could be added in consultation with the state health officer. The governor’s order is similar to what Curry mandated locally, but DeSantis’s order states it does supersede any conflicting guidance in local orders. City Director of Public Affairs Nikki Kimbleton said in a phone interview April 1 that the essential businesses listed in Jacksonville’s order were
Vitner CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
had been at record levels at or slightly below 3% for months, with strong gains in jobs. “I was in Jacksonville several times earlier this year and the region’s economy had really hit its stride,” said Vitner. “Jacksonville’s Southside and Beaches accounted for a good part of that growth. St. Johns County has consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing areas of the country,” he said. Vitner works out of Charlotte but previously was an economist at Barnett Banks Inc. in Jacksonville, so he knows Northeast
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
ments by NBC News TODAY coanchor Savannah Guthrie. Curry said last week he feared a full shutdown order would have the opposite effect on people’s behavior, like the crowded public beaches reported after California issued a statewide order March 19. The mayor’s latest executive order keeps in place other restrictions made under a March 13 public emergency proclamation. Curry said this includes requiring employers to allow their employees to work from home, if possible. Duval County hotels were required as of March 31 to limit guests to “essential lodgers” like health care workers, law enforcement, military personnel, displaced travelers and residents and other professionals responding locally to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Florida well. He said the area has advantages that will help it recover from the short-term slowdown. “Housing is likely to be a big part of the solution in this recovery, rather than being the center of the storm of the last recession,” he said. “The availability of relatively affordable housing is a key competitive advantage for Jacksonville and will continue to be so after we move past the current recession.” The latest data from the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors showed a strong market for home sales in the region. The number of home sales in February was 4.1% higher than February 2019, and the median
sales price was 6.6% higher. Only a small bit of economic data is available for March, when the impact of virus-related closings hit businesses. The U.S. Labor Department last week said initial unemployment insurance claims in Florida reached 74,021 for the week ended March 21, more than 10 times the previous week. Nationally, new unemployment claims jumped to 3.283 million in that week, shattering the previous record of 695,000 during the 1982 recession, according to PNC Financial Services economists. “The massive increase in claims for the week ending March 21 is the first piece of hard evidence that COVID-19, and the public health measures taken to contain
JEA WAIVES LATE FEES
The city’s water and electricity utility will be waiving all customer late fees to help lessen the financial strain caused by COVID-19. Curry said April 1 that JEA will waive the fees in addition to the utility’s March 19 decision to end all disconnects. Florida restaurants have been operating without opening their dining rooms since March 20 when Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order ending onpremise food and alcohol consumption.
• Professional legal, accounting and tax services • Landscaping and pool care businesses • Child care facilities with stable 10-person groups
• Food banks • Pet supply retailers • Food cultivation including farming, livestock and fishing • Businesses providing food, shelter and social services • News and media outlets • Gas stations • New and used automotive deanships and auto supply and repair services • Banks and financial institutions
• Airports, seaports and other government facilities • Logistic providers • Telecommunication service and retail providers • Propane and natural gas providers • Open construction sites • Architectural, engineering and land surveying services • Factories, manufacturing faculties, bottling plants and other industrial uses
• Hardware stores • Contractors, trades, appliance repair and pest extermination services • Mail and shipping services • Universities, private colleges, trade and technical schools only to facilitate online learning • Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry services • Restaurants and food service companies with social distancing limitations
• Assisted living and nursing home facilities
• Home-based care for seniors, adults and children
it, are wreaking unprecedented havoc on the U.S. labor market,” the economists said in an outlook report. “Claims were near a 5-decade low just two weeks ago, at 211,000,” they said. After a record expansion lasting more than 10 years, the U.S. economy fell into a recession in March, the analysts said. Abbey Omodunbi, PNC economist for Florida, said the state will feel the impact. “Restrictions on movement because of the COVID-19 outbreak will be a huge negative for Florida’s economy. Consumerfacing industries such as leisure and hospitality are particularly at risk during this viral recession as consumer spending will drop
• Waste management services • Any business solely communicating with customers electronically. • Private and municipal marinas, boat launches, docks and fueling facilities • Hotels and motels • Veterinary and pet boarding services • Mortuaries, funeral homes and cemeteries • Firearm and ammunition supply stores • Businesses providing services to government agencies
until the COVID-19 outbreak is contained,” he said by email. Vitner said April will be a bad month for the economy but he remains optimistic for the long term. “Florida’s economy tends to bounce back from recessions fairly quickly as long as real estate has not gotten grossly overbuilt. The banks have healthy balance sheets and monetary and fiscal stimulus has been implemented unusually rapidly and is well targeted,” he said. “We will get through this,” he said. MMENDENHALL@ JAXDAILYRECORD.COM @@MIMENDENHALL (904) 356-2466
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Commercial Civil Trial
Here are the essential businesses that can remain open in Duval County:
• Office supply retailers
Mediate your next Case JBA GOVERNOR SINCE 2013
ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES
DAILY RECORD STAFF WRITER KATIE GARWOOD CONTRIBUTED TO THIS REPORT.
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determined by federal guidelines, and it’s based on a similar “Safer at Home” order issued by Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez on March 19. DeSantis expanded Gimenez’s mandate March 30, issuing an executive order implementing “Safer at Home” in surrounding Broward, Monroe and Palm Beach counties. Ending nonessential business operations means Desiree Bailey, marketing and merchandising manager at San Marco Bookstore, will have to close the store. But Bailey won’t end all sales. The book retailer has an online store and Bailey said customers already staying at home to avoid the virus have been using it. She also will take email and phone orders. “We’ve actually shifted to more online orders and phone orders than in-store business,” she said. “Luckily we have everything in place. It’s not what I prefer. I prefer to talk to my customers and see them and be able to give them advice.” A full list of essential retail and commercial businesses is on the city’s website at JaxReady.com/ virus. Curry, like DeSantis, had resisted a full shelter-in-place order. DeSantis said April 1 that he began to consider a statewide stay-at-home order after President Donald Trump extended federal coronavirus response guidelines through May 1. At a March 31 news conference, DeSantis said he’d consider a full statewide shutdown only if the recommendation came from White House coronavirus task force. U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams said April 1 that the president’s guidelines are a national stay-at-home order, when pressed on DeSantis’ com-
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Tappouni
Hudson
Karstaedt
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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Promotions, hirings and happenings for business people in Northeast Florida. Send items to ssailer@jaxdailyrecord.com The North Florida Green Chamber of Commerce announced its 2020 board of directors. Chair: Mary Tappouni, president of Breaking Ground Contracting Vice chair: Marc Hudson, land protection director of North Florida Land Trust Secretary: Kelly Karstaedt, executive director of the Jacksonville Justice Association Treasurer: Jessica Handley, tax manager at BDO Other board members include Tracy Alloway, a psychologist, professor, author and TEDx speaker; Craig Barzso, co-founder of Altways and founder and
BY MAX MARBUT
The Florida Bar awarded U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard the annual William M. Hoeveler Judicial Professionalism Award. The award recognizes an active judge who best exemplifies strength of character, service and competence as a jurist, lawyer and public servant. Jacksonville Chapter of the Federal Bar Association President Helen Peacock Roberson issued a statement: “Not only is Judge Howard a brilliant jurist, she is also a paragon of professionalism and public service. Judge Howard is committed to the ideals of professionalism in her courtroom and models best practices of civility, competence and strength of character to all who appear
Barzso
Sifton
CEO of LifeWare TEK; and Paul Sifton, part owner of 927 Events and partner of Bee Friends Farm. The organization is a regional networking organization for green and sustainable business practices.
before her. “She is also committed to civic outreach and strives to make our third branch of government accessible to all. As one Howard of many examples, she spearheaded the daunting task of bringing a naturalization ceremony outside the walls of the courthouse and onto the field of a Jacksonville Jaguars home game for 67,000 fans to witness. “Thank you, Judge Howard, for all you do for the Jacksonville Division of the Middle District of Florida.” MMARBUT@JAXDAILYRECORD.COM (904) 356-2466
BUSINESS CALENDAR To find more business events or to submit your event to the the business calendar, visit jaxdailyrecord.com/calendar. OCT. 20 National Security Advisor Brett McGurk to World Affairs Council: National Security Advisor Brett McGurk rescheduled his April 28 presentation to the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville to Oct. 20. McGurk will talk about “Unique Perspectives on Geopolitical Hotspots” at the University of North Florida Adam W. Herbert University Center. He served Presidents Bush, Obama and Trump and from 2015-
THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
9
“
happiness is greatly
driven by being connected to creating excellence.
Judge Marcia Morales Howard honored by The Florida Bar ASSOCIATE EDITOR
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18 was the U.S. Department of State Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. He is senior foreign affairs analyst for MSNBC. The Global Issues Evening is co-hosted with UNF’s Distinguished Voices Lecture Series. The event is scheduled 7-8:30 p.m. The event is free but registration is required. For information, visit worldaffairscounciljax.org or call (904) 280-8162.
Horst Schulze Founder, Ritz-Carlton Hotels
Horst Schulze is so right. We see that every day at the Observer Media Group — happy colleagues who are striving to create excellence. Don’t believe the fake news you hear about newspapers. Our family-owned company — 10 newspapers, seven websites, three community lifestyle magazines and multiple social media channels around Florida — is growing. And we’re looking for more happy, optimistic people at all of our newspapers to help our customers grow their businesses. If you understand marketing and sales; if you thrive in an innovative and entrepreneurial environment; if you are looking for a rewarding opportunity — financially, professionally and personally; and if you want to be around happy people dedicated to creating excellence, we have the place for you on our multimedia advertising team.
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Emily Walsh Publisher, Observer Media Group
DEVELOPMENT TODAY These are the largest commercial building permits by job cost issued Tuesday by the city of Jacksonville.
Ring Power Corp., 330 Pecan Park Road, contractor is Don Bell Signs LLC, ground sign, $3,500.
OFFICE, BANK, PROFESSIONAL Cady Studios LLC, 10475 Fortune Parkway, No. 110, contractor is Ladson Construction Co. LLC, 7,213 square feet, tenant build-out, $358,902.
STORES, MERCANTILE Honda at the Avenues, 11333 Philips Highway, contractor is PRO Building Systems Inc., 41,703 square feet, two permits for car wash and parking structure, $4.47 million. UTILITIES Tesla Destination Charger, 703 Chaffee Road S., contractor is HD Long Electrical Contractor Inc., 1,200 square feet, accessory building, $25,000. Compiled by Scott Sailer
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SIGNS Collins Town Center, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Emergency, 8083 Parramore Road, contractor is Don Bell Signs LLC, two permits for ground signs, $48,000. Dialysis Clinic Inc., A Non-Profit Corporation, 615 Park St., contractor is Seakay Construction Corp., monument sign, $5,000.
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THE BAR BULLETIN
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
Bar Bulletin The
PROTECTING RIGHTS • PURSUING JUSTICE • PROMOTING PROFESSIONALISM
INSIDE
COMMENTARY
UNCERTAIN TIMES
Stay informed, stay safe and stay positive. Life will return to business as usual.
COMMENTARY
In tough times, rise to challenge This is a time to be a good neighbor to those you know who are most at-risk by safely grabbing groceries or supplies for them. Show mercy to others, even under the stress of the day. PAGE 12
JBA ELECTIONS
Candidates seek your vote A president-elect and five members of the Jacksonville Bar Association Board of Governors will be elected. Read their appeals for your vote. PAGE 15
T FRAZ AHMED JBA BOARD OF GOVERNORS
ypically, I would be writing this article from the quiet comfort of my office on Bay Street. But today, I write at home. Home, where my girls are wildly dancing, singing and begging me to inflate their bouncy house. Where my dogs are barking at every package that is brought to our door, which as those of you who know my wife, Lindsay, know, is a lot. Where everywhere I look, I see something else that needs fixing. But today, home is the place where I am preparing for telephonic hearings, hosting multiple conference calls and
drafting pleadings, all while watching Frozen II on repeat and having a tea party with two little divas, both dressed in Moana costumes. I haven’t had a workday like this since … ever. Very few, if any of us, have experienced a time like this. There have been wars, natural disasters, recessions, terrorist attacks and other times of crisis, but this is different. Every country across the globe either has been or will be affected by the coronavirus. Countless businesses and organizations have been greatly impactSEE AHMED, PAGE 14
PRO BONO
Spring break spent helping seniors University of Florida Levin College of Law first-year students help community during break. PAGE 13
FROM PRO BONO THEPRESIDENT PRESIDENT THE
A message for JBA members and the 4th Circuit legal community If we can assist you, reach out to us.
ELIZABETH FERGUSON JBA PRESIDENT
As we all continue to monitor the developments and responses to COVID-19 across the country and the world, I want to let you know the Jacksonville Bar Association is open for business. We are ready to assist our members and the local legal community while also practicing responsible social distancing as recommended by health officials worldwide
The JBA has worked for the past few years to have strong remote capabilities and we will be using those to provide seamless service and the latest information. We endeavor to provide updates on court postponements and closings as well as the impact of the orders and restrictions coming down on the state and federal levels as quickly as possible. We will continue to keep you apprised of developments as
information is shared with us. We also are working to move our previously scheduled in-person events to an electronic format, including CLEs. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit jaxbar. org/page/JBAUpdates. As we continue to see depositions, mediations and hearings postponed, I ask that we continue to have patience and grace in dealing with these difficulties and with one another. To the extent such activities
can occur telephonically, we encourage proceeding with those activities. But, where face-toface interaction is required, those will need to be postponed for our own safety and the safety of others. If there is any way the JBA can assist you and your practice, reach out to me (ebferguson@ mdwcg.com) or JBA Executive Director Craig Shoup (cshoup@ jaxbar.org). I hope you and your families stay safe and healthy.
THE BAR BULLETIN
LAW FROMDAY THE2020 PRESIDENT
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
11
JBA CALENDAR VIRTUAL COMMITTEE MEETINGS For all meetings, register at jaxbar.org APRIL 7 Professionalism & Mentoring Committee Noon APRIL 8 Mentor/Mentee Virtual Roundtable Breakfast Noon APRIL 14 Elder Law Committee Noon APRIL 23 Veteran and Military Affairs Committee Noon
Some events for annual celebration rescheduled
MARY MARGARET GIANNINI JBA LAW DAY COMMITTEE
The JBA Law Day Luncheon is scheduled May 6 at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront with former state Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince as speaker. The Jacksonville Bar Association is continuing its annual tradition of celebrating Law Day. Law Day was instituted by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1958 and codified by Congress in 1961. Law Day encourages all citizens to honor the United States’ commitment to the rule of law. This year’s Law Day theme is “Your Vote – Your Voice – Our Democracy.” It celebrates the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. In recognition of the importance of the right of franchise for all, the JBA Law Day Committee will have a variety of activities in support of the official May 1 Law Day commemoration. However, given the current events in our country and around the world, some
of these events will be later this year to provide all with an opportunity to celebrate Law Day. Check the JBA website, jaxbar.org, for rescheduled events and additional information. The JBA Law Day Luncheon is scheduled May 6 at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. Former state Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince will share her reflections about how the 19th Amendment has helped advance democracy for all Americans. At the luncheon, the JBA will announce and honor this year’s recipient of the Liberty Bell Award. It recognizes outstanding service performed by a nonlawyer who has given time and energy to help foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the law and our legal community. Further advancing Law Day’s theme of how a larger electorate enhances American democracy, in late February, Jacksonville volunteer attorneys spent time with elementary school students discussing the 19th Amendment and the importance of franchise for all American citizens. Based on the students’ increased knowledge regarding the 19th Amendment, they created posters which will be posted on the JBA website. We encourage all attorneys and members of the public to visit the website and vote for your favorite poster. Awards will be presented to the winning students and the top posters will be displayed later this year at the Duval County Courthouse when the traveling exhibit celebrating the 19th Amendment is installed. We encourage you to vote now as we would like to award the students with their prizes during this school year.
THE JACKSONVILLE BAR ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP President Elizabeth Ferguson Marshall Dennehey Warner Coleman & Goggin President-elect Michelle Bedoya Barnett Alexander DeGance Barnett Treasurer Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook
Secretary Fraz Ahmed Coker Law Young Lawyers Section President Alessandro Apolito Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman Executive Director Craig Shoup
A group of area legal organizations, as well as the JBA, were able to secure the display of the traveling 19th Amendment exhibit from the Law Library of Congress. Titled “100 Years After the 19th Amendment: Their Legacy, and Our Future,” the exhibit features historic photos and details the battle to ratify the 19th Amendment and the challenges that remain. This exhibition is postponed until September. The annual Law Week naturalization ceremony at the Bryan Simpson U.S. Courthouse will be rescheduled for later this year. The Law Week Committee also coordinates a number of fundraising activities. We have postponed the charitable activities, and intend to reschedule them in conjunction with the other events in September. We will collect art supplies to be donated to local elementary schools, as well as a drive to collect toiletries for Downtown Ecumenical Services. It is anticipated that these facilities may be in even greater need in a few months. We hope that our legal community will help to support both drives. Also, the annual Rendezvous on the Rooftop that benefits Dreams Come True will be rescheduled. The evening includes food, festivities and a raffle. Proceeds from the event benefit Dreams Come True, a Jacksonville nonprofit that grants wishes to terminally ill children. For additional information about the drives and the Rendezvous on the Rooftop, check the JBA website and social media pages. We will update all with information as it becomes available.
UPCOMING EVENTS JBA Board of Governors elections online voting opens April 13 The election is open to full, public service/governmental and judiciary members. Honorary, out-of-area and student members are not eligible to vote. Membership dues must be current. Details at jaxbar.org
Keep involved in the JBA The driving force behind this organization is the active participation of its members. Please give the association the benefit of your ideas and talents by volunteering to serve on one or more of the committees shown on the JBA website. With your active involvement, this association will flourish. To join or change your committee preferences, open your web profile at jaxbar.org and click on “Join a Committee.”
Mary Margaret Giannini is an associate general counsel for the City of Jacksonville.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEMBERS Brian T. Coughlin Bedell Firm
Adina Pollan Pollan Legal
Christian P. George Akerman
Asghar A. Syed Gunster
Jamie Karpman U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Blane McCarthy Blane McCarthy
Cyndy Trimmer Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow Lindsay L. Tygart Coker Law
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Editor-in-chief Kelly Karstaedt Jacksonville Justice Association | ABOTA Editors Iana Benjamin Cordell & Cordell Ashlea Edwards Akerman
Kirsten Oliver Law Offices of William W. Kurtz, Jr.
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THE BAR BULLETIN
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
YOUNG LAWYERS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Avoid the bunker mentality DAVE CHAUNCEY JBA YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION
When confronting uncertainty, the temptation is to isolate yourself from others, but we need other people and they need us, even if by video. I was walking through my favorite grocery store looking for baby wipes. There were none. After the toilet paper was gone, it seems that baby wipes were next in line. That’s all well and good unless, like my wife and me, you have a newborn. I had a bit of a panic attack. What was going to happen? How was I going to provide essential products to my wife and baby? And then: Do I feel sick? Is the economy crashing? When is there going to be toilet paper again? In just a few weeks, our whole lives have been shaken. Everything has been turned upside down. I think many of us have had similar moments during this COVID-19 pandemic. Uncertainty breeds anxiety and anxiety can be crippling, personally and professionally. On the other hand, a lot of people are not taking any precautions or may be mocking the situation. We need to reject both extremes. We cannot be filled with crippling fear or paranoia, but we need to be prepared and concerned for others. Throughout human history,
prosperity sometimes has bred complacency. Yet, it has been the uncertain and difficult moments that reveal the true character of people and communities. Perspective matters. The Greatest Generation was considered great because, although not perfect, they endured the worst of times and rose to the challenge. Difficulties reveal greatness. What do tough times reveal in you? You cannot control a worldwide pandemic, but what can you control? This is a time to be a good neighbor to those you know who are most at-risk by safely grabbing groceries or supplies for them. This is a time to support your favorite local business. Use proper hygiene. Show mercy to
others, even under the stress of the day. Thank the medical professionals who are working hard around the clock to help the sick. Thank the teachers who have a job that often is underappreciated. Thank the first responders and law enforcement officers who are working to protect us. Call your grandparents, your parents, your siblings and some close friends often. The temptation is to isolate yourself from others, but we need other people and they need us, even if by video. The bunker mentality is easy to adopt. You should “socially distance” yourself, but don’t socially abandon. I take for granted the world around us. I take for granted my
family and friends. I take for granted a country with freedom and more prosperity than at any time in history. I take for granted the sacrifices of those who got us here and the resilience and determination it will take to leave a better world to our descendants, including my baby daughter. Often, we are completely distracted by issues at work or entertainment, sports and social events. Consequently, we lose track of priorities. In one unfortunate and extraordinary moment, so many of those distractions are gone. Our businesses are shaken. Our markets are shaken. Our governments are shaken. Our institutions are shaken. What is your foundation dur-
ing this storm? Faith, hope and love will remain when all the rest is gone. I am confident that after the valley, there will be a new mountaintop to climb. The supply lines will be restored. There will once again be toilet paper and baby wipes. In the meantime, although we cannot control the worldwide pandemic, let’s reveal our greatness and the greatness of our community during the most uncertain of times by rejecting crippling fear and looking out for one another. Dave Chauncey is an attorney with Alexander DeGance Barnett focusing on labor, employment, education and general business litigation.
LEGAL BRIEFS
Need CLE hours? Check out the JBA website
Upcoming CLEs
The Jacksonville Bar Association has a CLE video library where you can purchase online CLE presentations and get those CLE credits you need in the convenience of your home or office. You may choose from as few as 0.5 CLER hours to as many as 8.0 CLER hours, including various certification hours. Just select the videos that correspond with the CLE credits you need, purchase them, watch online and submit for credit. Topics include family law, technology law, transactional law and professionalism for new practitioners. Visit jaxbar.org/store
APRIL 3 & APRIL 6 How to Create a Greater Level of Financial Security Noon A webinar series approved for 3.0 CLE credits, including certification credits in business litigation, tax law and wills, trusts and estates.
Register for CLEs at jaxbar.org
APRIL 8 Trending Issues in Immigration Noon A webinar approved for 1.0 CLE credit, including certification credit in immigration and nationality law. APRIL 9 SBA and other COVID 19 resources for businesses Noon
A webinar pending approval by The Florida Bar for 1.0 CLE credit. APRIL 22 18th annual Ehrlich Trial Advocacy Seminar 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A webinar pending approval by The Florida Bar for 4.0 CLE credits Topics include voir dire, the attorney as teacher, cross-examination, closing arguments, and post-verdict Issues. Early registration through April 7. APRIL 24 Franchise, Intellectual Property & Technology Law Committee CLE Noon A webinar pending approval by The Florida Bar for 1.0 CLE credit.
Key reasons to renew your JBA membership • Bench & Bar Holiday Party free to members • General and Law Day luncheons free to members • Annual golf tournament • Free committee participation • Access to Attorney Conference Center, Duval County Courthouse • Bar Bulletin – First Thursday monthly edition of the Jacksonville Daily Record • CLE seminars at reduced rates • Optional Lawyer Referral Service membership • Savings on exclusive member benefits • JBA E-News member email • Free listing in website directory with photo
THE BAR BULLETIN
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
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PRO FROMBONO THE PRESIDENT
Students help seniors during spring break
MISSY DAVENPORT JBA PRO BONO COMMITTEE CHAIR
University of Florida Levin College of Law first-year students assisting low-income seniors create advance directive documents. For many students, spring break is an opportunity to catch up on sleep and spend time relaxing with friends at the beach or pool. Instead, University of Florida Levin College of Law first-year students Ryan Babb, Alexa Goldstein, Kelley Graham, Jordan Grana, Sama Kaseer and Kelsey Kilpatrick spent their break from school helping the community by assisting low-income seniors create advance directive documents. The Alternative Spring Break Advance Directives Project at Jacksonville Area Legal Aid began with a day of orientation and training when the students created documents for each other under the supervision of an attorney. Students drafted the same documents they did for the seniors: Durable power of attorney, designation of health care surrogate, living will and designation of preneed guardian. Then, along with notaries public and volunteer attorneys, the students went to three senior residential facilities. Retired attorney Pat Vail volunteered to visit the facilities in advance to provide an informational presentation to residents about the advance directives service. Here’s how the students’ spring break week unfolded: March 2: They came to Jacksonville Area Legal Aid for orientation and training to create the documents facilitated by volunteer attorney Rick Stockton. The students also had lunch and conversation with judges at the Bryan Simpson U.S. Courthouse. March 3: The students met at PSI Mandarin Center, an affordable housing community for seniors. Eight seniors created advance directives documents, served by the students under the supervision and guidance of attorneys Latoya Williams Shelton and Marquita Green. The event was organized by the JALA staff and Lilliana Torres Perez, service coordinator at PSI Mandarin Center.
March 4: At Mount Carmel Gardens, 12 seniors prepared documents with students under the supervision of attorney Debbie Lee Clark. JALA staff attorney Michael Pelkowski trained the students on legal issues facing seniors, including scams, reverse mortgages and contract issues. JALA staff and Erin Olton, service coordinator at Mount Carmel Gardens organized the event. March 5, the final day of the project: The students assisted nine seniors at Riverside Presbyterian House under the supervision of Gregory Redmon, an elder law attorney and past president of the D.W. Perkins Bar Association. Andrea Spencer, ElderSource director of communications, spoke to the students about the challenges and issues faced by senior citizens and provided information about the resources that are available in our community. The event was organized by JALA staff and Kathy Rhoden, service coordinator at Riverside Presbyterian House. The law students came to the Alternative Spring Break Project willing to learn and with a desire to help. They brought enthusiasm, professionalism and compassion to each event. The students increased access to legal assistance. The experience allowed them to understand that too many people in our
Special to the Daily Record
Law students, volunteer attorneys and Jacksonville Area Legal Aid staff assisted clients at PSI Mandarin Center. From left, attorney Latoya Williams Shelton; JALA Case Administration Coordinator Jennifer Bennett; University of Florida student Alexa Goldstein; attorney Marquita Green; UF students Kelsey Kilpatrick, Sama Kaseer and Kelley Graham; JALA Case Placement Manager Debra Talley; UF student Jordan Grana; JALA Pro Bono Director Missy Davenport; and UF student Ryan Babb.
community lack the financial resources to access legal assistance. It also provided them the opportunity to bring comfort and peace of mind to the seniors. The end result: Dozens of people in our community were helped. Attorneys interested in pro bono opportunities throughout the 4th Judicial Circuit are encouraged to visit floridaprobonomatters.org and type in their home county to view a list of ways to help. Attorneys also may learn of clinics and one-day events by emailing missy.davenport@ jaxlegalaid.org
Special to the Daily Record
From left, University of Florida law students Sama Kaseer and Jordan Grana assist a PSI Mandarin Center resident.
Special to the Daily Record
Law students, volunteer attorneys and JALA staff assisting at Mount Carmel Gardens. From left, University of Florida student Sama Kaseer, JALA Case Administration Coordinator Jennifer Bennett, attorney Debbie Lee-Clark, UF students Alexa Goldstein and Kelsey Kilpatrick, JALA Case Placement Manager Debra Talley and UF student Kelley Graham.
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THE BAR BULLETIN
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
Special to the Daily Record
The Defenders, from left: Jon Lorimier, Teddy Foster, Morgan Orender, Adam Schemer, Art Stresing, Jon Thacher, Logan Chipperfield, Trish Laissle, Deb Billard, Al Chipperfield and Owen Schmidt.
The Defenders reclaim JBA hoops crown It’s the team’s sixth championship in eight seasons.
ART STRESING JBA BASKETBALL CHAIR For one night, The Defenders became “avengers.” In a rematch of the 2019 Jacksonville Bar Association Basketball League championship game, The Defenders held their early lead this year and defeated No. 3 Davis, 59-34. The Defenders got out to a smokin’ start in the first half, taking a 20-point lead into halftime led by the hot shooting of Adam
Schemer, Teddy Foster, Logan Chipperfield and Jon Thacher. The Defenders finally lived up to their name and put on their greatest defensive effort in years with a shutdown performance by Morgan Orender. Jon “Heart” Lorimier and Pete “Hustle” Venuti provided great energy off the bench to help secure the victory. In the third-place game, The A-Team got their first win of the season against former league champions, Pajcic, by forfeit. This Jacksonville Bar Association basketball season was sponsored by StretchJax at 416 S. Third St. in Jacksonville Beach. The next season begins in August. If you’re looking to get out of the courtroom and onto the court, sign up for our fun and competitive league. If you’re interested or have questions, contact Art Stresing at astresing@pd4.coj.net or Kayla Haines at khaines@SmithHulsey.com
The JBA Basketball League: What you need to know When: Mid-August to mid-October. Games begin at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Season is eight weeks on Tuesday evenings, including playoffs the last two weeks. Where: JAX Indoors Sports, off Emerson Street at Interstate 95 Team fee: $500, individual player fee is $50. Who’s eligible: • JBA members • Spouses or children of a JBA member • Nonlawyer firm employees of a JBA member • Enrolled law students within one year of graduation or those who just took the Bar exam Attorneys must be JBA members. No ringers permitted. Anyone who signs up as free agent will be assigned to a team. This league is co-ed.
Ahmed: Instead of the bad, focus on what we can do CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
ed, not to mention what this has done to individuals. All of us have been touched in some way that we never imagined. It is natural to stress, worry and/or panic. But unfortunately, those feelings and emotions will neither help solve anything nor are they good for our mental health. Going to the grocery store is stressful enough. Initially, Lindsay and I were concerned about the possibility of our youngest child, Silas, running around sans diaper during what will likely be dubbed as The Great Toilet Paper Panic of 2020. As shocking as it may sound, shelves were restocked, we have toilet paper and Silas has diapers. As lawyers, we are Type A people and most of us have been greatly concerned about the
negative impacts this pandemic will have on our law practices. Instead of focusing on the bad, let’s each do our part and try to focus on what we can do to put each of our clients in a better position for when we are on the other side of this. We can each work on moving our clients’ cases forward and look at strategic and creative ways to resolve cases in the meantime. I was supposed to be in trial last week. Today I had to reschedule eight depositions in one case that were set to take place over the next couple of weeks. I know many that are in the same boat. However, trials will be reset and depositions will be rescheduled. As frustrating as it is, in time, life will return to business as usual. It is imperative during this time of uncertainty to stay
informed. The Jacksonville Bar Association is here to help. Fortunately, over the past several years, the JBA has been updating its equipment and remote capabilities. The JBA is open for business to help keep us all informed with the most recent developments. We are monitoring the situation around the state and publishing up-to-date information. Statewide, all jury trials have been suspended at least until March 30. In Duval, Clay and Nassau counties, all Circuit and County Court jury trials have been suspended through May 1. Hearings are to be conducted by audio or video. The parties should confer and agree on who will initiate the conference call before contacting the judge’s chambers. If the parties cannot agree, the moving party will be responsible for having all parties on one line before contacting the
court. In Duval County, any party who believes that an in-person hearing is necessary may file a request with the judge. Those requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If the parties agree to use videoconferencing, those hearings shall be conducted using a commercial application such as Zoom, located at Zoom.us. In Duval and Clay counties, setting cases for trial will be done only through email. For specific information regarding civil or criminal hearings relating to each county, visit jaxbar.org/page/JBAUpdates. The website also posts administrative orders from other circuits as well as federal courts. To stay informed, connect with the JBA social media pages, including Facebook and Twitter and monitor the website. We will continue to provide
the most current information. Many of us and our clients will feel negative economic impact during this time, but remember the hundreds of thousands of people who are suffering from COVID-19, the thousands who are dying and the many more who are in critical care. Remember our first responders and medical professionals who are putting their lives at risk to treat members of our community. Take a deep breath, practice social distancing, cherish the time with your family. FaceTime with your parents and loved ones and keep your thoughts and prayers with those that are most vulnerable during this time. Fraz Ahmed is a board certified trial attorney at Coker Law focusing on plaintiff personal injury representation.
THE BAR BULLETIN
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
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JBA election candidates A president-elect and five members of the Board of Governors will be elected. Online voting opens April 13. Visit jaxbar.org for additional information about the candidates and to cast your vote. PRESIDENT-ELECT
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Michael Fox Orr
Fraz Ahmed
Michelle Broyles
Adina L. Pollan
Local Bar associations like the JBA must continue evolving for the benefit of members. We have an outstanding board of governors and staff at the JBA. They are dedicated to giving our members firstclass services and programs. The opportunities are endless with the Bar and I hope to continue supporting our board, committees and staff in their exploration of those opportunities. Our young lawyers have amazing energy and I will endeavor to assist the Young Lawyers Section as its members continue to do the heavy lifting for our association. Now is the time to increase our investment in each other. I look forward to hearing from each of you about your ideas for growth as we support our incoming leader, Michelle Barnett.
I would like to continue to see a steady growth in membership and encourage greater involvement. Becoming involved with the JBA has been one of the most rewarding experiences. To encourage greater involvement, I would like to exceed the goals our membership sets for us including developing ways to better serve our membership, providing greater communication to serve the needs of our members, providing better member benefits, continuing to promote the highest degree of professionalism and fostering a stronger bond between the JBA and our community to promote public perception of the legal community.
Since I have been a member, the JBA has provided a great forum to meet attorneys in other practice areas where we have been able to help and educate one another. I hope to promote diversity and inclusion. The JBA offers a variety of educational programs and networking events that are underutilized by many attorneys who may feel intimidated by an organization with such a large membership. It is important to reach these potential members and make them feel welcome, teach them the networking skills needed to thrive in the profession and maintain the tradition of professionalism and support of one another in our legal community.
I have been a passionate member of the JBA since 2009. Last year, as chair of the Judicial Relations Committee, we created the inaugural Bench & Bar Conference. This year, working again with the Judicial Relations Committee, the second conference was an even greater success, with more than 120 participants and 50 speakers. My goal has been to think creatively to provide value to the current members, as well as find ways to grow membership. If reelected to the board of governors, I want to continue finding ways to improve benefits to the membership, whether via increased substantive content, more networking events or opportunities for virtual events.
Shannon Schott
Cyndy Trimmer
Lindsay L. Tygart
During my time as the Solo and Small Law Committee co-chair, I have seen the need to give special time and attention to those of us who are solo and small. I want to continue to support solo and small law firms with special elements to all programming and events. I would like to see the Jacksonville Bar Association develop long-term resources for solo/small law firms through the use of technology. I also would like to support working parents with additional support, programming, advocacy and mentoring. As we see the special challenges that our entire profession currently faces when school and/or childcare is unavailable, learning from this moment in history is paramount.
I have been honored to serve as a member of the JBA board for the past several years and am proud of the work that has been done to make membership meaningful for all of those involved. I believe it is our job to continually strive to improve the value of membership through re-evaluation of our committees, programming and opportunities for engagement, and to serve as ambassadors within the legal community and community at large. As incoming president-elect of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association, I have the unique opportunity to foster partnership between our various voluntary Bar organizations and look forward to strengthening those bonds if elected.
I have been incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to serve the members of the Jacksonville Bar Association for the past 12 years. One of my goals for the JBA is to ensure that our Bar association remains relevant to our membership. The practice of law is constantly changing and evolving, which brings challenges, but also brings opportunities to develop new and inventive programs and initiatives to support those changes. Jacksonville is the absolute best city in which to practice law. Our local practitioners have an inspiring sense of camaraderie that can be rare in this field. It is vitally important that the Jacksonville Bar continue to foster that sense of professionalism.
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JACKSONVILLE DAILY RECORD / J ACKSONVILLE RECORD & OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020
JaxDailyRecord.com
MAX MARBUT ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Circuit Judge David Gooding is presiding over adoption hearings and other proceedings during COVID-19 shutdown. Despite the COVID-19 shutdown, court is in session in Duval County. Circuit Judge David Gooding left his office at the courthouse the afternoon of March 13 and hasn’t been back in the building since, but he’s been convening court seven days a week. Gooding is presiding over adoption hearings, first-appearance hearings for juveniles charged with criminal offenses and other proceedings in front of his computer at home. He cites the leadership of Chief Judge Mark Mahon and the work of the entire courthouse staff, particularly the IT department, which is led by 4th Judicial Circuit Court Technology Director Mike Smith.
“I can’t heap enough praise on Mike Smith and his team. They have done a wonderful job to keep the 4th Circuit running,” Gooding said. Each day, Gooding puts on his robe, fires up the desktop computer in his den and logs in to the remote court system. Behind him is the state seal and looking over his shoulder is a portrait of his late father, Circuit Judge Marion Gooding. “I’m using one of my dad’s gavels,” Gooding said. As of March 27, in the two weeks since Gooding left the courthouse, he issued orders that placed 31 foster children with their forever families. The court coordinates with Family Support Services of North Florida, the lead agency for foster care and adoption in Duval and Nassau counties. “Family Support Services has done a wonderful job keeping adoptions in process,” Gooding said. The remote system is allowing the court to maintain its usual level of service, but there is an element that’s been lost. “I miss being there in person. I love being around the kids,” Gooding said. He also is conducting remote firstappearance hearings for juveniles taken into custody by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. That means accused youth can electronically appear before him while in custody at the juvenile detention center instead of having to be brought before a judge in the courtroom inside the pretrial detention facility.
Special to the Daily Record
Circuit Judge David Gooding works in his home den. A portrait of his late father, Circuit Judge Marion Gooding, looks over his shoulder as he presides over adoption proceedings and juvenile hearings.
To maintain the most stringent protocols to prevent transmission of COVID-19, “children don’t need to be in the jail,” Gooding said. Despite the historic disruption of business as usual, Gooding said the remote system is making it possible for his court to maintain its level of service to the public.
“We haven’t had to reschedule a single hearing due to the isolation orders and restricted access. We have met all of our obligations.” MMARBUT@ JAXDAILYRECORD.COM (904) 356-2466
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THE MARBUT REPORT
Judge presides from home to keep Duval court system running