Jacksonville Magazine, March/April 2025

Wild at heart i

SMOTHERED & COVERED COMFORT FOODS THAT NOURISH

Local Artist's Paintings Celebrate Northeast Florida's Most Precious Natural Resources plus: Local Hiking Guide

WEIGHT FOR ME? LOSING

A

list of the River City’s leading lawyers, as named by their peers in a national survey.

some of the region’s most beautiful natural places, from Cumberland Island to Jennings State Forest.

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Meet some of the city’s truly inspiring entrepreneurs and professionals making a mark across Northeast Florida.

Surviving illness and divorce, one local family builds a home with their eyes focused on what’s to come next..

Publisher’s Note

There’s a stretch of road in Jacksonville I believe captures the heart and soul of the city. The 20-mile ribbon of asphalt that winds its way from the Jacksonville Zoo along Heckscher Drive and all the way to Amelia Island is a ride that is dotted with industrial sites and massive warehouses. But it also offers picture-postcard stretches of coastal marshes and views of the St. Johns River and Atlantic Ocean. The towering cargo cranes at Blount Island marine terminal, the Carnival Cruise passenger terminal Marathon Petroleum storage tanks, BAE Systems dry dock facilities, and JEA’s Northside Generating Station are among heavy industry operators along the busy road. Pristine the area is not.

However, there are patches of natural beauty that somehow seem to coexist with all the cars and 18-wheel vehicles that routinely roll in and out of the area. Just past the electric power plant, egrets and herons stand motionless in the shallow waters of Brown’s and Clapboard creeks, silently waiting for fish to swim within striking distance. The fishing is good here, an understanding that’s bolstered by the everpresent anglers casting lines from the bridges crossing the tidal waters, as well as those who motor or paddle deeper into this portion of the sprawling Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.

As the road veers north, industry gives way to the sand dunes, palm and oak trees and grasses of Huguenot Memorial Park, Fort George Island, and Big and Little Talbot islands. Homes and businesses melt away into miles of salty marshes laced with creeks snaking in all directions. Kayaking launches, biking paths and hiking trails allow for visitors to venture deep into the unspoiled landscape. It’s amazing

that thousands of acres of woods, water, beach and marsh have been preserved only a few miles from Downtown Jax. And it's all waiting to be explored by anyone with an interest. For example, the Boneyard Beach (pictured) at Big Talbot Island is great for picnics and photos.

The roadway is also notable for the significant historical sites found along its path. The dusty trails that lead to Kingsley Plantation, established in 1814, start here. Be sure to stop by St. George Episcopal Church before you leave the island. The church and congregation date back to the late 1800s. Not far from the northern on/off approach of the Dames Point Bridge is Yellow Bluff Fort Historic Site, the remains of an important Civil War encampment occupied by both Union and Confederate troops.

A pack of rumbling Harley Davidsons, weather-beaten shrimp boats, riverfront homes perched high off the ground, boat ramps, fish camps, waterside seafood joints, huge cargo ships entering the St. Johns, US Navy helicopters rattling to and from Mayport Naval Station, live bait sellers, chattering gulls, vehicles lined up waiting at the ferry crossing—drivers likely will see all of this and more on any given day. Next time you have a few free hours, take the drive and see the sites. I don’t think you will be disappointed. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

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UPCOMING EVENTS

April 26

Old Arlington Historic Cemetery Tour

April 27

Intuition 10th Annual Disc Golf Event

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“Old City Cemetery is one of the oldest graveyards in Jacksonville. One portion of the cemetery is dedicated as the final resting place for “Old Confederate Soldiers and Sailors” who died after the Civil War. A large bronze plaque marks the site. Before being buried here, the soldiers and sailors resided in a home established for them in 1893, a couple of miles from the cemetery grounds on Talleyrand Avenue. It’s amazing the history that surrounds the city, even history that some would rather forget.”

—Willow O’Malley, Ortega Farms

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Northeast Florida you’d like to share with our readers? Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.

SMALL TALK

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month

Snow in Florida is not unheard of. But the blizzard of January 22 was truly a freak weather occurrence. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, nearly 9 inches of snow fell in the Panhandle town of Milton. The amount is more than twice the previous record of 4 inches that fell in 1954. Photos of snow on the beaches of Destin and other Gulf towns went viral across social media. Remarkably, to that date for the year, Pensacola had received more measurable snow than Anchorage. Parts of Jax, namely Arlington, received a light dusting—just enough to make a few tiny snowmen.

SEO experts at Search Logistics investigated the 50 most populated US cities to identify the best locations for young entrepreneurs. This was determined by analyzing co-working affordability, wage data, internet infrastructure, tax data, cost of living and personal income. These factors were assigned a score out of 100, with 0 being the worst and 100 the best. Then,

an overall index score was calculated to produce a ranking of cities. The city revealed to be the best for young entrepreneurs was Jacksonville, with an overall index score of 70.91 out of 100. Tampa placed second with an index score of 70.35, followed by Indianapolis, Baltimore and Fort Worth.

Last year was a busy one at Jacksonville International Airport. The busiest year on record, in fact. Some 7.6 million passengers flew through JIA in 2024, a nearly 3 percent increase from the year before. The rise in travelers is among the reasons for the addition of the new Concourse B, now under construction. Also, two new airlines begin operating in Jax this year. Avelo Airlines started flying direct to New Haven in February and Air Canada will start daily flights to Toronto in late May.

Speaking of air travel. Last year, Transportation Security Administration officers in Flor-

ida discovered 817 firearms in travelers' carry-on luggage, a slight decrease from 2023. In Jax, a total of 61 guns were found, down from 74 the year prior. Several Florida airports saw an increase in discovered firearms, including Gainesville Regional (from 2 to 12) and Miami International (from 78 to 103). Guns can be transported on commercial flights, provided they are unloaded, packed in a locked hard-sided case and placed in checked baggage.

The median annual cost of a year in college in the U.S. is $42,277, according to recent analysis conducted by research.com. Florida institutions scored exceptionally well when compared to other universities across the nation. In fact, the University of Florida ranked as the most affordable, with tuition and fees per year costing $6,381. Also offering bang for the buck is University of South Florida ($5,498), Florida State University ($7,493), and University of Central Florida ($8,258). u

Health Check

The bustling Prudential Drive campus home to Wolfson Children’s Hospital and Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville looks to expand in the coming years. Recently, it was announced that the healthcare provider will soon start construction on a new, fourstory, 123,000-square-foot emergency and patient tower for adults and children. The new facility will provide care for chest pain, stroke, behavioral health, complex illnesses and injuries utilizing two emergency rooms, three pediatric trauma rooms, an endoscopy suite, imaging and laboratory centers. “We feel strongly that it is critical to ensure we not only provide the best quality of care but also make the experience the best it can be for our patients and caregivers alike,” says Michael Mayo, president and CEO of Baptist Health. “We challenged ourselves to do more than expand and renovate what exists today—instead, we are reimagining the entire environment of care.” Construction will begin later this year with a scheduled completion date in 2029. u

Number$ Game

e Sales recently opened on the third and final phase of Del Webb Wildlight, a 55-and-old neighborhood located inside the 2,900 Wildlight master planned community lying between Jax and Amelia Island. “We have experienced tremendous success since opening less than two years ago, and our sales have exceeded our expectations,” says Justin Cook, president of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida Division. Buyers have the choice of 16 floor plans ranging from 1,343 to 3,339 square feet, with homes starting in the mid-$300s. Community amenities include a 16,000-square-foot clubhouse, zero-entry pool, pickelball, tennis and bocce courts, dog park, public garden, fitness center, private wine lockers, an arts and crafts room and some ten miles of walking trails. Plus, a covered pavilion and event lawn features an outdoor stage. “Our signature home designs and amenities offer great appeal to 55+ buyers who are seeking an active lifestyle at a vibrant community,” adds Cook. u

PLAY A GAME?

The classic board game Monopoly is not for the timid or those lacking boldness. No, the game, first played in 1935, is one of risk, a little luck and a desire to win, to outwit and outplay the competition. Kind of like the real estate biz. In February, the new Monopoly: Jacksonville Edition was released. In this version, the perennial game’s Atlantic City squares such as Boardwalk and Park Place are replaced by local culturural sites, landmarks, charitable organizations and businesses. Players will notice First Coast sites including Friendship Fountain, Jacksonville Zoo, and Memorial Park and brands like the Jaguars, Bono’s Pit BBQ, and the Margaritaville Hotel. It also features customized Community Chest and Chance playing cards, as well as bank notes, ensuring every detail of the game relates to Northeast Florida.

“We appreciate all those who suggested landmarks, organizations and businesses that make Jacksonville unique and truly special,” says Lindsay Wallace, a representative of game maker Top Trumps USA. “We are pleased so many raced in to win the opportunity for a place on the board, and look forward to having the entire local community and tourists enjoy the game.”

Just like the original, the goal is to acquire property—the more desirable, the better—and invest in houses and hotels, collect rents and reap the rewards of real estate ownership. Of course, one’s competitors will be looking to do the same so deals will be hatched, fortunes made and lost. Monopoly: Jacksonville Edition ($45) is available online and in stores, including The BookMark, Jacksonville History Center, Barnes & Noble and The Local. u

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Walk in the Park

Close to Orlando but world's away in charm

Ihave always been a sucker for a small town. Or at least the idea of a small town where everyone knows each other, and all the activity usually takes place on a picture-perfect Main Street that’s home to myriad fun places and quirky characters. The funny thing is, while this idea seems super fun, it turns out that I, like so many of you, have a bit of an elevated sense of what today’s amazing small town should be. Do I really want to eat at Al’s Pancake World (Stars Hollow) or shop in a store where Aunt Bea might have purchased a floral house dress (Mayberry)? I’m thinking, no! I’m a Floridian so obviously I enjoy things that are quirky or even a bit rustic. I love a good hole-in-thewall seafood shack but I also adore fabulous shopping, fine dining, and boutique hotels that offer upscale amenities.

If you’re like me and are looking for a small, walkable town for a weekend getaway that fits this bill, you’re in luck. Jacksonville is an easy drive to uber-cute Winter Park. Located a little north of Orlando just off of I-4, this hamlet brings all of the main street “feels” that one

desires. Stay in the beautiful Alfond Inn, where you can enjoy poolside cocktails, spa treatments, or a meal before walking a few steps to the bustling village just around the corner.

The main thoroughfare is Park Avenue and it’s surrounded by Central Park, a lovely green space that’s perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Park Avenue itself is filled with independent boutiques, antique and curiosity shops, and chef-owned restaurants. Don’t miss The Briar Patch for breakfast or lunch but plan to arrive early. There is usually a line of customers waiting for the mimosas and to-diefor brunch fare. After a day of shopping, hit Prato for dinner and sample modern takes on classic Italian dishes. This chic spot boasts a beautiful outdoor patio and is a favorite for wood-fired pizzas and seasonal pastas.

Soak in a bit of culture with a visit to the Morse Museum of American Art, where you can view the most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the world. Or, head back to the Alfond Inn to admire their collection of contemporary art. Instal-

lations change periodically and are courtesy of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College. For the ultimate weekend treat, take one of the hour-long Scenic Boat Tours that launch daily from 312 East Morse Blvd. Enjoy gorgeous views of historic homes, parks and natural areas while cruising through a chain of lakes and scenic canals.

Wrap up the weekend by strolling through the beautiful Spanish Mediterranean architecture of Rollins College. You might be lucky enough to catch a play or choral concert while you’re there. One of the best parts of this small town is that all the places shared with you are within walking distance of each other. Jax Maggie & Co love that! Winter Park is more than just a pretty face. It’s a true Florida gem that combines a small town feel with a modern sense of luxury, historic charm and natural beauty. u

— Maggie

Look for more of Jax Maggie's travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine.

Here Comes the Sun

Clearwater Beach recently welcomed the opening of a new luxury beachfront resort. The Opal Sol boasts panoramic waterfront views from 248 suites ranging in size from cozy studios to three-bedroom homes-away-from-home. Located next to its “soul mate” property, Opal Sands, and connected via a glass-enclosed skyway bridge, guests have exclusive access to four pools, ten restuarants, two spas, two fitness centers, and more than 100,000 square feet of event space. The list of in-room amenities is long and includes soaking tubs, hot tubs on balconies, kitchenettes with refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, stove-top, coffee maker and more. Among its dining options are Lolita’s Coastal Cocina, serving traditional Mexican recipes with a modern flair, breakfast spot Toast, and the nostalgic Float Malt Shop & Creamery.

& THE MOON

When Universal Orlando theme park debuts something new, you can expect it to be grand in scale. And that’s the case at the Terra Luna Resort, an ultra modern 750-room hotel that opened for guests in March. Among the perks of staying here are easy and early access into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay water park. Plus, there is a huge zero-entry pool with a massive hot tub, arcade game room, fitness center and multiple restaurants and lounges such as the Moonrise Bar and Omega Cafe serving burgers, pasta and classic American fare. The Terra Luna and its sister resort, Stella Nova, are located adjacent to the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park, opening May 22 of this year. Room rates start at $125 per night. u

If These Walls Could Talk

The Handy Dandy was more than just a neighborhood corner store

BY TIM GILMORE

Through these front corner doors at Herschel and James streets in Riverside, in the old corner grocery, the Handy Dandy, deep Jax histories cross, stories of hippie musicians not yet famous, of the old Lebanese family that’s given the city two mayors, of a dog named Stonewall who almost died but instead was loved into a long life.

In 1925, the wood-frame building was home to a Whiddon’s Cash Store and Hiram Jones Meats. For a nickel, you could purchase a Whiddon’s coupon the size of a dollar bill that was worth a quarter. For much of the 20th century, two of the Jacksonville’s most prominent Middle Eastern families owned or operated this corner grocery, the Nasrallahs and the Hazouris, years before Tommy Hazouri was elected mayor in 1987 or his cousin Donna Deegan became the city’s first female mayor in 2023.

Rumors still float around Riverside that musicians from this band or that played upstairs, but city directories list the apartment as “vacant” in the late 1960s. Donna Goddard

doesn’t remember it happening; she hung out all over the neighborhood and her first husband Gary played the Willowbranch Park “be-ins” in 1968 with his band, Wapaho Aspirin Company. Richard “Hombre” Price, the classically trained musician who played bass in Sarasota and then Jax with the band The Load, doesn’t recall it.

Then Linda Miller tells me, “That’s where I first took LSD.” She’d met a bassist named Berry Oakley and stayed with him once at the Pickwick Apartments downtown. Then he came to her place above the Handy Dandy and stayed. “We’d all go hear the Second Coming play at The Scene,” Miller says. “Then we’d all come back to the apartment, Berry and John [Meeks, a drummer] would play their acoustic guitars, and we’d all sit around, making the room all smoky and listening to music.”

The Second Coming would partially morph into the Allman Brothers Band The Scene was a psychedelic music club on the Westside. Oakley and guitarist Dickey Betts, both Allman Brothers Band founding members,

Dickey’s wife Dale, who sang and played organ, and Larry “Rhino” Reinhardt, who later played guitar with Iron Butterfly all played in Second Coming and all came back to the apartment over the Handy Dandy late at night.

Miller, who later married Oakley, remembers so much from the few months, February to June, 1968, that she and Oakley lived upstairs, before they moved into the infamous Green House on Riverside Avenue. They made calls from the payphone downstairs in the grocery and when people called, Dorothy Hazouri would holler for them to come down. “Berry and I would wake up late in the morning and he’d go down, or we’d go down, and we’d buy bologna and white bread and fresh tomatoes and cottage cheese and cookies and sodas.”

John Meeks and Miller both loved to draw and Miller’s first acid trips coincided with their own Magic Marker murals of Lewis Carroll illustrations. She says the first night she tripped might have been the night they all listened to Jefferson Airplane’s Surrealistic Pillow and albums by Cream, Donovan,

Berry Oakley and Linda Miller

Country Joe and Bob Dylan. Another night Linda Miller the White Rabbit and Meeks drew the Queen of Hearts and her cards.

She remembers laying back and watching their illustrations like a movie. “The cards were flipping through the air, the caterpillar was smoking his hookah, the White Rabbit was checking his pocketwatch. Everything was moving.” A friend who later rented the apartment told her the owners had painted over the wall drawings, but they still showed eerily from underneath the whitewash.

Almost 30 years later, in 1995, Richard Ceriello, a speech pathologist from Long Island, bought the building for a song. Eight months later, his longtime partner, Tony O’Connor, died from AIDS. Thirty-yearold photos show Tony and the couple’s dog Stonewall standing out front. “Stonewall showed up in our driveway almost dead,” Ceriello recalls. “He had been hit by a car, had a dislocated rear leg, was starving, and as we found out when we took him to the vet, had a bullet in his chest.” Stonewall was about nine months old. He lived for the next 16 years.

Ceriello restored an original front wall of windows long enclosed with newer smaller windows beneath a metal awning. The front door was plywood, covered with locks. The whole house had sunk where the freezer had rotted out the floor and sills beneath it. It was hard to open the front door, because the floor, “linoleum on top of linoleum on top of patched plywood,” tilted dramatically.

He kept some of the original shelving. An original Coca-Cola ad and butcher block inhabit the large front room. Ceriello says a story of the freezer being used “to chill bodies” during the wait for funerals came from Edna Starling, an elderly neighbor who died in 2012. He describes her as “somewhat difficult to talk to, but I think she was correct.”

This old building has been lots of things to lots of people over the years. Decades before Ceriello moved in, lost his partner and found Stonewall, Dorothy Hazouri sold shampoo and frozen steaks, while her husband stealthily sold beer on the Lord’s Day. Meanwhile, Linda Miller recalls, “We had that whole big apartment upstairs and hardly any furniture, it was like being in the body of a big ship, and we would fill it up at night with friends and smoke and music.” u

Lasting Legacy

Years before Hollywood would become the movie-making capital of the world, Northeast Florida enjoyed its time in the spotlight as a center for film. Our warm weather, sunny skies and the exotic scenery and locations helped make Jacksonville a significant player in the movie biz during the early 1990s. One man in particular left a lasting legacy in film history. Richard Norman produced several feature films at his Arlington-based Norman Studios during the 1920s, many featuring black casts. His films like The Bull-Dogger and The Flying Ace starred black actors as pilots, cowboys and businessmen. Norman’s movies enjoyed success in theaters across the country; however, the Great Depression led to the closing of his studio. The five buildings that comprised Norman Studios still stand and the property is operated by a local nonprofit group as a museum, which is open for tours the first and third Saturdays of each month. In addition, a collection of original Norman movie posters presently are on display at the Cummer Museum of Art. u

Beluthahatchee Park is a four-acre public park along SR 13 in Fruit Cove. The property is part of a larger parcel purchased by author and civil rights icon Stetson Kennedy in 1948. Seventy years ago, this slice of Jax was swampy wilderness. Today, new homes and businesses pepper the area; however, the park still retains some of its wild side, including the native vegetation and animals, as well as Kennedy’s home, a National Literary Landmark. Kennedy’s career as an author began in 1942 with  Palmetto Country and the writer and activist achieved international acclaim in 1957 with  The Klan Unmasked, based upon his infiltration of the group following WW II. Among the many guests he hosted at his home was legendary folk songwriter Woody Guthrie (“This Land is Your Land”). Kennedy’s fondness for music is kept alive today with Sundays at Stetson’s, a series of concerts held on the grounds of the park. This spring’s musical lineup includes John Dickie on April 13, Sam Pacetti on May 11 and Jeanie Fitchen and Jim Bickers Staff on June 8. Shows run 2-4 PM. Admission is a suggested $10 donation per person. u

Patricia Hazouri

ROCKIN' RICK

His acting and music careers have spanned decades. But he’ll always be Dr. Noah Drake and “Jessie’s Girl” singer to us. Rick Springfield headlines the I Want My ‘80s Tour, playing May 29, 6:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Tickets $50-$150.

Welcome to Jax Liam Coen, the new head coach of the Jaguars. This is Coen’s first gig as an NFL head coach, coming to town following one year as an offensive coordinator in Tampa. He will be the seventh head coach since Shad Khan bought the franchise from Wayne Weaver in 2012. Duuuuval!

AFTER 40 YEARS AT FIRST COAST NEWS, CHIEF METEOROLOGIST  TIM DEEGAN SIGNS OFF FOR HIS LAST BROADCAST MAY 30. DEEGAN (A.K.A. JACKSONVILLE’S FIRST GENTLEMAN) WILL RIDE OFF INTO THE SUNSET, LIKELY ATOP A SURFBOARD. HE’LL BE MISSED, ESPECIALLY DURING HURRICANE SEASON.

CONGRATS TO SOUTHERN ROCK LEGENDS LYNYRD SKYNYRD FOR THE BAND’S RECENT INDUCTION INTO THE FLORIDA ARTISTS HALL OF FAME. “FREE BIRD,” “SWEET HOME ALABAMA,” “GIMME THREE STEPS”… RONNIE VAN ZANT, GARY ROSSINGTON AND BANDMATES PRACTICALLY INVENTED A GENRE OF MUSIC. LEE HIGH'S COACH SKINNER WOULD BE PROUD. MAYBE NOT.

The Jacksonville Symphony has a decided international flavor, from Music Director Courtney Lewis (right), born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to Concert Master Adelya Nartadijieva (left), a native of Uzbekistan, to Taiwan-born Prinicipal Violist Yun-Ting Kuo. This world of nations shines at two performances of Mozart’s Requiem, his final composition, May 16 and 17.

Talking Head

Host of FOX NEWS’ ratings toppers “The Five” and “Gutfeld!” Greg Gutfeld comes to town for an afternoon of pointed political commentary and storytelling—and probably a jab or two at fellow FOX crew members Brian Kilmeade and Jesse Watters—May 18 at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Comedian Tom Shillue joins him. Tickets range from $46 to $172. u

Chew on This

What’s new and noteworthy in local Food and drink

 Relatively new in downtown St. Augustine is Saint, an Italianinspired dining establishment from the group behind the popular River & Post and River & Fort restaurants. Just a block from River & Fort, Saint features a beautiful courtyard and a second-floor balcony and rooftop patio overlooking the Oldest City bayfront. The dinner menu is highlighted by upscale favorites like short rib bolognese with pappardelle pasta ($38) and seafood bucatini with shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams and scallops ($47).

 Jeff and Montakran Schofield, founders of the two area Blue Orchid Thai restaurants, recently introduced a new dining concept utilizing their culinary chops while eliminating some of the costly overhead associated with a brick-and-mortar establishment. Blue Wok is a fast-casual model offering pick-up, delivery or fullservice dining at Blue Orchid. “Blue Wok represents an innovative solution to industry challenges,” says Jeff. “By simplifying operations, we can deliver exceptional food at a fraction of the price while staying true to the heart and soul of Thailand’s cuisine.”

oz. porterhouse ($135). Sides of sautéed spinach, lobster mac and cheese, and saffron risotto are a la carte. The rooftop bar offers a similar menu in addition to burgers, chicken wings and conch fritters.

Entrees like phad Thai, cashew stir fry, and tropical fried rice are priced around $16.

 Axe throwing, face painting, arts and crafts, rock climbing walls, bounce houses, live pirates, mermaids and more all come together for the annual St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival, the 42nd incarnation of which arrives March 29 and 30 on Francis Field. In addition to all the entertainment, guests are treated to an ocean’s worth of fried shrimp, crawfish boils, oysters, and fish sandwiches, plus funnel cake, kettle corn and local craft beer. Festival hours are Saturday, 10 AM-9 PM, and Sunday, 11 AM-6 PM. Tickets available at 904TIX.com

 The two-level Chophouse at Nocatee recently opened its doors in the community’s bustling Town Center shopping district. Serving dinner Monday to Saturday, the menu features grilled octopus with Thai chili sauce ($20), Faroe Island salmon with corn puree ($38) and steaks ranging from 16 oz. ribeye ($66) to a bone-in, 40

 “Unfortunately, we have permanently closed. Thank you for allowing us to serve the Atlantic Beach community for the last 30+ years.” So read a sign posted in late January on the doors at Ragtime Tavern, Seafood & Grille at the Beaches Town Center. First opened in 1983, the restaurant expanded several times by enlarging its dining rooms and bar, hosting live music on weekends and was a local pioneer in the craft beer biz, serving house brews like Dolphin’s Breath Lager paired with a menu of New Orleans-style eats. It will be missed.

 The new South Ponte Vedra Ocean Club opened in February. The oceanfront property tucked between A1A and the Atlantic, and formerly Serenata Beach Club, features members-only amenities as well as a restaurant open

to the public. The 300seat Lynda’s at the Ocean Club serves a mix of seafood and beef, including ribeye steaks, 16 oz. prime rib ($50), pork tenderloin ($34) lobster bisque, Ahi tuna ($18) and grilled oysters. The restaurant is named for owner Lynda Culhane-Merritt, one of the sisters who operate the two area Culhane’s Irish Pubs.

 The Ragga Surf Cafe used to occupy one of the prettiest stretches of oceanfront near Marineland. While the food truck was forced to move from that salty location, it has been reborn at another,

The menu of coffee, tea, chicken salad, grilled cheese, veggie tacos and sweet croissants is as tasty as ever. u

this one in the San Sebastian Marina on Riberia Street in St. Augustine.

Saint

Lynda's at the Ocean Club

Ragga Surf Cafe

Weight For Me

Obesity continues to be a significant global health concern, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Recognizing the urgency to combat this pervasive issue, medical advancements have paved the way for the development of various weightloss drugs or anti-obesity medications. These pharmaceutical interventions aim to assist patients in achieving their weight loss goals by supplementing lifestyle changes and promoting sustainable results.

But, as with any medication, questions and concerns naturally arise among patients considering or prescribed these anti-obesity weight-loss drugs. It is important that patients have accurate information and a clear understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with such medications.

For example, some are oral medications while others are self-administered once-a-week injections. Also, prescription weight loss medications work in different ways to treat overweight and obese patients.

Some medications make it harder for your body to absorb fat from the foods you eat, according to the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Anti-obesity medications may also target cravings, food preferences and thoughts about food.

“GLP-1 medications work by helping your body manage blood sugar levels and control appetite,” says Hannah Nelson, APRN, Nurse Practitioner at Jacksonville’s Serotonin Cen-

ters. “They mimic a natural hormone in your body that helps regulate how much insulin you produce and how quickly your stomach empties. This can make you feel fuller for longer, which helps with weight management. Essentially, they support your body’s natural processes to help you achieve your health goals.”

The first generation of weight-loss drugs was developed in the 1930s through the 1960s. These agents were stimulants—such as dinitrophenol and methamphetamine—and are only approved for short-term use for weightloss because some are amphetamine-based, which is a cause of concern of addiction. With the withdrawal of fenfluramine—part of Fen-Phen—and dexfenfluramine as well as a better understanding of obesity, a second generation of weight loss medications were developed. These targeted the central regions of the brain as well as the digestive system, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Now there are newer weight loss drugs that have turned their attention to gut hormones—such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)—which are involved in appetite and weight regulation. The newest anti-obesity medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is semaglutide, which is known as Wegovy. This is a higher dose of the same medication, Ozempic, which was approved four years earlier for type 2 diabetes. Saxenda (liraglutide) is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist and is the same class as semaglutide

“Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, bloating, appetite changes, and injection site reactions,” says Nelson, adding that the duration of GLP-1 medication use varies, but it could be a year or longer. “It depends on how well you adhere to your program. Sometimes, hormone optimization can lead to significant improvements beyond the need for GLP-1. These medications are suitable for individuals looking to lose a significant amount of weight or those aiming to shed the last 10 to 20 pounds.”

Another medication that has been making headlines is tirzepatide, which is sold under the brand name Mounjaro. Use of tirzepatide resulted in more than a 20% weight reduction in those with obesity. But this has not been approved by the FDA for use as an anti-obesity medication. It is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, though, and the drug trial’s sponsor is working towards FDA approval for weight loss, according to Yale Medicine.

Additionally, a new anti-obesity medication that has completed a phase 2 trial is from Eli Lilly. The phase 2 trial was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and showed that patients with obesity lost an average of 58 pounds at the end of a 48-week treatment course. This weight-loss drug from Eli Lilly is an injectable called retatrutide. It has not been approved yet.

“Weight loss results can vary as we consider all “5 Pillars of Health,” including sleep optimization, food intake, supplementation, and work-

outs (cardio, resistance training, and core/ stability),” says Serotonin Centers’ Nelson. “Our goal is to help you make lasting changes at the cellular level and develop new, beneficial habits.”

Of course, working together with a medical professional is the best way to determine if a medication to treat obesity is the best option. When choosing a medication, it is important to keep a few things in mind, including the likely benefits of weight loss, the medication’s possible side effects, a patient’s current health issues and other medications being taken, and, of course, the cost. So, what are you weight-ing for? u

Floridian Dr. Maurice Gattis is a self-taught fashion designer. His day job is an associate professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. However, when not teaching, he is creating and promoting his clothing company, Fort Mose 1738, a name that traces its roots back in time through Northeast Florida and West Africa. “I came up with the name after trips to St. Augustine and Accra, Ghana. Since Fort Mose was comprised of people from West Africa and their descendants are currently living in the United States, I wanted to reconnect the two and tell the story through fashion in honor of the free black community in what was to become the United States,” says Gattis. “By blending traditional west African textiles with contemporary western silhouettes, it’s a fusion that blends the history of Fort Mose with the present.” The theme for his 2025 Spring/Summer collection is The Color of Freedom, with looks fabricated in hand-woven silk and cotton Kente with golden threads, as well as 100 percent cotton in painterly patterns. The clothing line includes both men’s and women’s fashions priced between $135 and $600, and can be found online at FortMose1738.com. u

Do You Mind?

Does this describe you? Are you constantly multitasking, with your thoughts racing from one idea to another? Does preparing for the future or reliving the past take up the better part of your day? Constant mental chatter such as this can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of disconnectedness from the present moment. Mindfulness, a practice rooted in ancient Eastern traditions, offers a powerful antidote to these contemporary challenges. The practice involves using different tools and techniques to help your mind become more aware of the present moment. Also, it encourages not being critical, not holding on too tightly, and accepting the whole journey, even when it’s tough.

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help people—kids, teens and adults—become more aware of the things that cause stress and one’s reactions to them. So, by staying present and non-judgmental, practicing mindfulness allows many to manage stress more effectively. In addition, mindfulness can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety disorders. It teaches people to observe anxious thoughts and physical sensations without judgment. This awareness can reduce the intensity of anxiety and prevent rumination, ultimately helping individuals gain better control over their anxious responses.

In a nutshell, the concept of mindfulness encourages self-reflection and self-awareness. The philosophy says people can gain insights into their behavior and reactions by paying attention to their thoughts and feelings. This self-awareness can help identify harmful thought patterns and habits, allowing for positive changes in behavior and self-perception.

Proponents say mindfulness exercises, such as meditation, strengthen the attention muscle. Practitioners learn to sustain their focus on the present moment, improving their ability to concentrate and resist distractions. This can be particularly helpful for people with attention disorders or those who struggle with productivity. It’s an idea that’s gaining traction, especially for kids and teens.

Imagine introducing mindfulness techniques early in childhood as a way to help decrease negative thoughts and behaviors and build self-confidence before a child reaches a level of crisis. What parent wouldn’t want this for their children? After all, in the post-Covid 19 era, emotional and behavioral struggles are front and center in homes and schools across the country. Every tool to help kids navigate their most impressionable years is welcomed and needed, perhaps now more than ever.

When many think of mindfulness, they first think of yoga. While it is true yoga is a form of mindfulness, there are many other tools, too. Simply put, mindfulness is all about awareness, of the right here and now. It is the practice of paying attention to one’s thoughts, body sensations and sounds around us. Most importantly, mindfulness teaches one the power of responding versus reacting. In fact, research shows that mindfulness can be beneficial for children in a variety of ways. For example, it promotes empathy and optimism, helps regulate stress, improves impulse control, and can lead to lower levels of depression and aggression.

For many, the mind is often focused on daily worries, fears, anger, and regrets, and they are not thinking of just being present. This state is frequently referred to as "forgetfulness"—you are there but you are not. One is caught in the past or in the future, and is not there in the present moment, living your life. The opposite of forgetfulness is mindfulness. Instead, picture yourself breathing in and out mindfully, bringing your mind back to where your body is. Practitioners believe when your mind is in tune with the body, you are established in the present moment. Then you can recognize the many conditions of happiness that are in you and around. As a result, happiness comes more naturally.

In addition, research shows that mindfulness-based therapy supports treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorders, stress disorders, and other mental health issues. Many believe practices such as mindfulness meditation, guided meditation and deep breathing, may even reduce symptoms of mental health issues and lessen fatigue, pain, and insomnia, and negative thoughts.

There are three primary techniques to beginning mindfulness practice. For starters, carve out some time and create a pleasant space yourself. Even just one minute of mindfulness can be a great introduction if you’re unfamiliar with or hesitant to begin. Over time, as you feel more comfortable, add to your time and remember to release any judgments or expectations of yourself or the practice.

Also, note that it is natural for your mind to wander. When it does, let go of the interruption by returning to the tool. Your eyes can be closed, or if that is not comfortable, relax your eyes on one spot. Make sure the body is comfortable. For some, sitting in a chair is more comfortable. For others, sitting on the floor or even lying down can be most comfortable. Whichever position feels right for your body is the best way to begin to practice mindfulness—which can range from five-minute breathing exercises to extended periods of full-blown meditation. Regardless of your practice, consistency and intention are key. u

JUST KIDDING

The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine is well-known for its enormous collection of fine and decorative arts, historical artifacts and memorabilia from Florida’s gilded age. The Oldest City institution also hosts an ongoing series of special events ranging from concerts to camps to craft-making workshops, many of which are aimed at creative kids and parents. For example, earlier this year the Lightner hosted a morning gardening class for kids ages 5-10 where participants learned all about plants and even had the chance to plant a seed and take it home. Coming later this summer is a collection of fiveday camps including Find Your Hobby, June 23-27, The Art of Nature, July 7-11, and Innovative Inventors, July 14-18. Eligible campers range in age from 6 to 14 with each session, 9 AMnoon,  costing $125 per child, less for museum members. u

Childs Play

Summer camp season will be here before you know it. Are you and your kids ready?

For many families, summertime means camp time. Day camps for sports, weeklong sleep-over camps in the North Carolina mountains, afternoon creative sessions at local museums—the kinds of camps are practically endless these days and there are focuses dedicated to almost every facet of athletics, education and exploring nature. However, despite the enormous variety of different types of camp experiences offered, parents should ask a few of the same questions when determining which is the best fit for their kids. Here are five questions and topics to discuss before signing up and paying the associated fees.

What is the typical camp composition? Are campers a mix of typical peers and what is the ratio of campers to staff/counselors? Also what is the camp schedule like—a full day or just a few hours in the morning or afternoon? Who are the camp counselors? Are they mostly high school students or college students? How many adults are on the site at any one time and do they have special training of any kind?

On the topic, what kind of experience do the counselors have? Have they received specific training? If so, what kind? Have they worked

with children who have challenges or special needs similar to my child’s?

What skills are focused on during camp? Is the emphasis on academics, technology, social skills, recreation or other topics? Of course, depending on the type of camp one is looking for many more questions will need to be ask. But it’s best to start with the basics so that both parent and child feels comfortable before diving into the deep end, so to speak. u

Source: ConnectingForKids.org

Select Northeast Florida Summer Programs

Jacksonville Country Day School Multiple sessions from June 2-July 25 Moday-Friday 9-3PM

The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth

The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth

Kim's Open Door

June 22 - August 8, 2025 Register now for best selection of courses 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (day program at 3 U.S. sites; grades 2-6)

June 22 - August 8, 2025 Register now for best selection of courses Residential program at 7 U.S. sites; grades 5-12

cty.JHU.edu

cty.JHU.edu

International Summer Academy for Refugee Population 6/16/25 - 7/24/25 (Monday-Friday) 9:30AM-1:30PM KimsOpenDoor@gmail.com

Lightner Museum June 23-July 25 9am-12pm

www.LightnerMuseum.org/ summer-camp/

Summer Sharks: $265 per week Specialty Camps: $325 - $425

Cost per three-week session varies. See website. Yes

Cost per three-week session varies. See website. No

Free for refugees. Looking for $650 sponsors

Extended programming available for some.

$125 per child; $100 Lightner Museum Household Members No

Mandala Wellness May 27-August 1 9am - 1pm and 9am - 3pm MandalaFamily Wellness.com/camps/ $325-$575/ per week No

Tommy Hulihan Summer Sports Camp

Multiple sessions from June 9-August 1 Moday-Friday, 8-3

www.TommyHulihan Basketball.com 170/week; 45/day Yes

TOP TEACHER PROFILES

Marion Zeiner

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE

Marion Zeiner has taught at Episcopal for more than 35 years. She is Director of Scientific Research and teaches chemistry, and heads the science fair for the school. Her students annually compete at regional, state, national, and international science fairs, winning scholarships and recognition. She also leads the school’s ninth grade orientation adventure to Unicoi State Park in Georgia, and has for more than 30 years. Marion is a recipient of Episcopal’s Davis Award for Excellence in Teaching and the Timothy Award, presented annually to an Episcopal faculty member who exemplifies the ideal of Christian service to students and to the community.

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE 4455 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida 32207 (904) 396.5751 | www.esj.org

The Jacob Jolliff Band (w/ Lowground) Bier Hall, Intuition Ale Works March 29, 7 PM

Clay Street Unit (w/ Underbrush) Bier Hall, Intuition Ale Works April 6, 7 PM

Intuition 10th Annual Disc Golf Event

April 27, 10 AM at Klutho Park Afterparty in the Bier Hall

Meghan Warford

JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Meghan Warford has been a part of the Jacksonville Country Day School (JCDS) Kindergarten team for the past six years. She understands that Kindergarten is a pivotal year in a child's educational journey, laying the foundation for both academic and social-emotional growth.

As a part of the JCDS Kindergarten faculty, Ms. Warford creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment where students develop essential skills for lifelong success. Using a multisensory, hands-on approach, she fosters independence, creativity, and problem-solving. Her classroom emphasizes play-based learning, interactive activities, and role-playing, ensuring that students are actively engaged in their learning.

Recognizing the importance of a smooth transition from Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 into Kindergarten, Ms. Warford helps students build confidence and develop a love for learning. "Kindergarten is where students begin to see themselves as learners and problem solvers," says Ms. Warford. "It’s a privilege to be part of that journey and to support the JCDS mission of inspiring young minds."

JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 10063 Baymeadows Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 641-6644 | jcds.com

Samantha Armstrong

SEACOAST CHARTER ACADEMY

Samantha Armstrong is a 1st Grade Lead Teacher at Seacoast Charter Academy. She has taught 19 years in elementary education and all of those years have been in 1st grade. She is very passionate about teaching reading to her students because it lays a foundation that follows them throughout their years in school and in life! Her favorite time of the day is reading a story to her class. She loves this time with her students! In her classroom, Ms. Armstrong encourages her students to “think.” In fact, this word is above the board and is an important reminder to her students. “Every day I encourage my kids to try their best and think! Kids are capable of so much! They just need encouragement and someone to believe in them,” says Ms. Armstrong.

“At Seacoast, our entire staff strives to provide a studentcentered education that focuses on the whole child. We encourage our students each day and want them to develop a love for learning. We are blessed to be a part of this learning process!”

SEACOAST CHARTER ACADEMY

9570 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

(904) 562-4780 | seacoastcharteracademy.org

the to-do list

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

MUSIC

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

 For more than 40 years, the Jazz Fest has united music enthusiasts for a weekend of food, drinks, community, and, of course, music performed by an all-star lineup of musical talent. The 2025 weekend, May 22-25, kicks off with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition on Thursday, followed by three days of live music in Jacksonville’s Sports & Entertainment District, free-$549 VIP packages.

ART

Honoring Joan Mitchell

 MOCA Jacksonville joins more than 70 museums across the country exhibiting works

by abstract artist Joan Mitchell during what would be her 100th birthday year. Mitchell’s career spanned more than four decades, during which her primary medium was oil on canvas, though she also worked in pastels and printmaking. Honoring Joan Mitchell is on display on MOCA’s first floor through June 15, free.

THEATER Les Miserables

 Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption–a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit.

This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series for 8 shows April 1-6 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $35-$126

SPORT

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

 Play ball! The 2025 pro baseball season opens this month and hometown Jumbo Shrimp host 18 games in April, including 1-6, 8-13 and 22-27. Most games start at 7 PM, though there are a handful of day games peppered in the schedule, too. And the season continues with home games at VyStar Park May 6-11, 20-25, $5-$38

FESTIVAL

Clay County Agricultural Fair

 Since 1987 the Clay County Agricultural Fair has provided Northeast Florida with an event that’s both fun and educational in a family atmosphere. Farm animals, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, midway games and live music presented daily. Bands featured this year include Sugar Ray, Uncle Kracker, Clint Black, Chase Mathew, Spin Doctors and Ricky Skaggs. On April 10, the Demolition Derby crashes into the fairgrounds at 6 PM. Tractor pulls April 12 and 13. Admission packages range from $6 to $125.

SPORT

Jacksonville Icemen

 The Greenville Swamp Rabbits skate into Jax for a game versus the Icemen April 4. The hockey season continues with the Savannah Ghost Pirates, April 11 and 12, and Orlando Solar Bears, April 13. The pucks drop at 7 PM at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $20-$75

OPERA

Madama Butterfly



Madama Butterfly is one of opera’s most enduring tales of unrequited love. Puccini’s poignant score follows the tragic tale of Cio-Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with American naval officer Pinkerton, with devastating consequences. Presented by Amelia Island Opera April 4, 7:30 PM, and April 6, 4 PM, at the Amelia Plantation Chapel, $10-$50

FESTIVAL

Springing the

Blues Festival

 For the 33rd year, the sands of Jax Beach heat up to the sounds of blues, jazz, funk and more for this annual springtime tradition. The free, three-day outdoor music festival celebrates America’s indigenous musical forms and features national, regional and local bands (Victor Wainwright and the Train, Betty Fox, North Mississippi Allstars and more) on two stages, plus food and drink vendors, April 4-6 at the Seawalk Pavilion.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 Following his electric performance of Rhapsody in Blue and Rachmaninoff’s Fourth in January 2024, Conrad Tao returns as Artist-in-Residence to premiere his new piano concerto commissioned by the Jacksonville Symphony. Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring known for its revolutionary dissonance and irregular meters, caused a scandal during its premiere, forever reshaping 20th-century music. Presented April 4 and 5, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $30-$88

MUSIC

Cecile McLorin Salvant

 The late Jessye Norman described Salvant as a

“unique voice supported by an intelligence and full-fledged musicality, which light up every note she sings.” She has developed a passion for storytelling and finding the connections between vaudeville, blues, theater, jazz, baroque and folkloric music. Hear her April 11, 8 PM, at the Ritz Theatre, $52-$80

FESTIVAL

Think Bold Festival 2025

 Said to be Jacksonville’s largest networking event, the Think Bold Festival & Conference, brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and business bigwigs to two days of inspiration and connections April 11 and 12, at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront. Keynote speakers include Jags president Mark Lamping, Sovereign Brands CEO Brett Berish and entrepreneur Lil’ Duval.

SPORT

Jaguars Flag Football Tournament

 The pigskins will be flying Saturday, April 12, at the Jaguars’ Flex Field at Daily’s Place for a 4-on-4 and 5-on-5 flag football tournament. Team categories range from three different men’s divisions, kids 12 and under and girls 14 and under. Registration is $600 per team and includes tickets to the 2025-26 season.

DANCE

Musical Animals

 Designed for young audiences but ideal for music lovers of all ages, the Amelia Island Dance Festival’s annual family show, Musical Animals, features the humorous musical suite Carnival of the Animals with live actors, musicians and dancers April 12, 3 PM, at Fernandina Beach Middle School, free. Continued on page 34

Seen

The theme for this year’s Mukti Freedom Gala was “On Purpose.” An annual fundraiser for Rethreaded, the gala took place February 8 at The Glass Factory. Patrons were treated to a champagne welcome, hors d’oeuvres followed by a seated dinner, silent and live auctions, music and more, all to help raise awareness and money to support Rethreaded’s mission of providing employment, career development, and services for local survivors of human trafficking. u

UPCOMING:

This year’s Kate Kup triples tennis tournament, a benefit for the Kate Amato Foundation, is set for Saturday, April 19, 8 AM-4 PM, at The Yards at Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. Participants must be 18 years or older and registration ($750) includes team play for three, gift bags, lunch, the awards after-party and a donation to support pediatric cancer research.

Local celebrities are partnered with professional ballroom instructors to learn to dance and compete for the mirror ball trophy at this year’s River City Dancing With the Stars taking place April 26, 6-8 PM, at the Lazzara Performance Hall at UNF. Tickets start at $50 and benefit Jacksonville Children’s Chorus, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

The Florida Arts and Culture Awards were held February 17 at the Florida Theatre. The annual ceremony included the presentation of the state’s Folk Heritage Awards and induction into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame. Among those receiving honors this year were Marisol Blanco, Julia Belen Alverio, and Jude “Papaloko” Thegenus, as well as Roger Bansemer from St. Augustine and Jacksonville’s own Lynyrd Skynyrd. Established in 1986, the Florida Artists Hall of Fame recognizes persons, living or deceased, who have made significant contributions to the arts in the state. u

MUSIC

Chicago

 Considered one of the most important bands in music since the dawn of the rock and roll era, the legendary band with horns, Chicago, came in as the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine’s Top 125 Artists Of All Time. In fact, it’s the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades. Hear the brass section April 13, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $41-$131

MUSIC

The McCartney Years

 Hailed by original Beatles promoter, Sid Bernstein, as “The Best on The Scene,” The McCartney Years offers a period-true live concert experience celebrating the timeless music of Paul McCartney.  Spanning two decades from The Beatles to Wings, this show delivers hit songs like “Hey Jude,” “Jet,” “Let It Be,” “Lady Madonna,” and more April 16, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $40-$55

MUSIC

Justin Hayward

 Legendary musician Justin Hayward, best known as the lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter for the iconic rock band The Moody Blues, performs April 21, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre. Listen for classics such as “Nights in White Satin,” “Tuesday Afternoon,” and “Your Wildest Dreams,” $40-$90

TV Andor

 The second and final season of Andor, a Star Wars spin-off series, premieres April 22 on Disney+. New episodes drop weekly for 12 weeks with the

story reportedly bringing Cassian (Diego Luna) right up to the beginning of Rogue One

THEATER

MJ The Musical  MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series for 8 shows April 22-27 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $62-$165

MUSIC

America

 The iconic rock band is hitting the road once again for their “Encore Tour 2025,” set to showcase timeless hits and unparalleled musicianship. The Grammy Award winners, best know for renowned singles including “Horse With No Name,” “Sister Golden Hair,” and “Lonely People,” play April 23, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $80-$130

FILM

The Accountant 2

 Christian Wolff applies his brilliant mind and illegal methods to reconstruct the unsolved puzzle of a Treasury chief’s murder. No doubt bullets will fly, punches thrown and bad guys get what they deserve. Starring Ben Affleck, J.K. Simmons and Jon Bernthal. Opening April 25.

MUSIC

Kane Brown

 Brown first broke onto the scene with the arrival of his self-titled, 2-time Platinum debut album (2016), where he became the first artist ever to

lead all five of Billboard’s main country charts simultaneously and topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart for 13 weeks and  earned two of the most-streamed country songs of all time (chart-topping singles “Heaven” and “What Ifs”). Brown plays April 25, 7 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $34-$375

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 The Jacksonville Jazz Collective heats up Jacoby Symphony Hall with the sizzling rhythms and vibrant energy of Latin jazz. Be transported to the streets of Havana and the jazz clubs of Rio de Janeiro, April 27, 3 PM, as this talented ensemble delivers Latin-inspired magic that leaves you dancing in your seats, $38-$59

MUSIC

Wilco

 The sextet comprised of Jeff Tweedy, John Stirratt, Glenn Kotche, Pat Sansone, Nels Cline, and Mikael Jorgensen continues to be regarded as a live powerhouse, as described by NPR, “To see Wilco on stage is to hear the best of the best.” The band’s newest album, Cousin, was released in 2023, followed by 2024’s Hot Sun Cool Shroud EP. Wilco plays April 30, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $40-$73

MUSIC

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

 In a pop culture world defined by perpetual changes, the partnership of singer songwriter Pat Benatar and producer-musician Neil Giraldo has been a steadfast union that has soared to the top of the charts. Her vocals and take-no-prisoners attitude, along with his artistry as a guitarist and producer, forged the chemistry and unique sound that created rock hits including “We Belong,” “Invincible,” and “Love Is A Battlefield.” The couple plays May 1, 6:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $45-$155

THEATER NARUTO: The Symphonic Experience

 This traveling stage production a live concert that brings the beloved anime to life on a grand scale. This two-hour event features a film montage of iconic scenes from over

220 episodes, synchronized to a live orchestra performing Toshio Masuda’s original score on May 4, 7 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $40-$103

DANCE

Jacksonville Dance Theatre



Founded in 2012, Jacksonville Dance Theatre’s new production, WEAVE, features a dynamic program of works from Artistic Director Rebecca R. Levy, resident choreographer Kristen Sholes Sullivan, and three distinguished guest choreographers. This spring repertory concert weaves together acclaimed works from JDT’s 13th season with new pieces, showcasing the company’s artistic range and vision May 10, 4 PM, at the Florida Theatre.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 Cirque de la Symphonie returns and promises more thrills than ever before. The strong men, aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers and more take the stage as the Symphony creates the perfect soundtrack by performing classical masterpieces that elevate the senses. From world record holders to former Olympians, the stage will be filled with some of the most experienced cirque talent ever seen in a fusion of two breathtaking art forms May 16 and 17, 7:30 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $40-$98

MUSIC

MillaJohn’s BlueSoul

 Playing early Chicago-style electric blues and 1960s and ‘70s soul and R&B, John has performed and recorded for over 50 years, opening for artists such as B.B. King, Chubby Checker, and Three Dog Night. He has called Jax Beach home since the mid-1980s and he plays here May 8, 6 PM, at the Beaches Chapel, $30

DANCE

Jacksonville Ballet & Jacksonville Symphony

 Experience a stunning collaboration as the graceful dancers of the Florida Ballet and Jacksonville Dance Theatre reunite with the Jacksonville Symphony. This spellbinding performance

Justin Hayward

merges the beauty of dance with exquisite symphonic melodies for two shows May 22, 6:30 PM, and May 23, 11 AM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $28-$48

MUSIC

Marc Broussard

 Renowned for his soulful voice and dynamic performances, Broussard captivates audiences with his blend of soul, blues and rock. His Time Is A Thief tour is named after his forthcoming album, which explores themes of love and self-reflection, and he brings the show to Jax on May 28, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $39-$49

Marc Broussard

MUSIC

JJ Grey’s Blackwater Sol Revue

 A rambling collection of bands combining soul, rock and blues, the Blackwater Sol Revue lineup includes 49 Winchester, The White Buffalo, John Anderson, Andy Frasco & the U.N., Marshall Tucker Band and Huntley. Headlining the event is JJ Grey & Mofro, playing songs from Olustee, Grey’s tenth album and first in eight years. Two shows May 24 (2:30 PM gates open) and May 25 (3:30 gates open), at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $58-$132

STORYTELLING

Untold Stories

 The Florida Theatre’s fourth season of Untold Stories, an oral storytelling series that brings local voices to the stage, presents personal and transformative tales from a diverse tapestry of individuals, from artists and educators to entrepreneurs and medical professionals. “Trail” is the theme for the second Untold Stories of 2025, set for Thursday, May 29, 7:30 PM, $29-$39

FILM

Karate Kid: Legends

 Daniel arrives in Beijing, where Mr. Han has been seeking him out. Han has a new protege, Li Fong, who is struggling to let go of the troubles in his past. The two mentors must collaborate to instruct Li Fong, but it remains to be seen if their instructional approaches will be compatible. We bet it will. Opening May 30 and starring Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio and Ben Wang. u

Blood & Tears

PHOTOS BY ANDREW VARNES

In this month’s Jacksonville Magazine , we continue our aerial tour of the First Coast’s many historical fortifications with a brief flyover of Fort Mantanzas National Monument . Located about 25 miles south of St. Augustine, the boxy coquina outpost dates back to 1740. However, the inlet and fort perched overlooking waters that are now part of the Intracoastal Waterway have a bloody past more than 200 years older, and a name to match.

 Spanish General Pedro Menedez de Aviles was charged by King Philip II with removing French settlers from a colony they were attempting to establish along the south bank of the St. Johns River. Frenchman Jean Ribault had similar ideas in mind for the Spanish, who were busy founding the town of St. Augustine. A pair of incidents in 1565 would result in Spanish control of Florida for the next 235 years.

 In search of a military showdown with the Spanish, French forces sailed south to St. Augustine. A storm dashed hopes of a surprise attack and the French ship wrecked along the coast between present-day Daytona Beach and Cape Canaveral. Lacking provisions and weapons, the French had little choice but to surrender to Menendez who was in pursuit of his enemy. Surrender they did. Live they did not.

 According to the National Park Service, “Francisco Mendoza, the Chaplain accompanying Menendez, requested the chance to offer survival for those found to be Catholics, most refused. 111 Frenchmen were killed. Only 16 were spared.” Two weeks later, a similarly bloody incident occurred at the site. More French survivors arrived at the inlet, including their leader Ribault, and surrendered to the Spanish. This time 134 were killed. From that point, the site was known as “Matanzas,” Spanish for massacre.

 As early as 1569, the Spanish recognized the vulnerability the inlet created for St. Augustine to the north. Initially, a series of wooden watchtowers were erected to provide early warning should vessels try to approach the colony from its southern backdoor. If a ship was sighted, a runner or small boat would set out to alert forces in St. Augustine.

 The British occupied the region from 1763 through 1784. Records show the remote post was manned by only a handful of soldiers at any one time, typically a sergeant, a half-dozen infantry privates and a Royal Artillery private or two to operate the fort’s cannon. Life for the soldiers likely was hot and monotonous, with days spent drilling, repairing the fort when necessary, and foraging for food. Activity logs from the 1700s and 1800s do mention the occasional action, including cannon fire on approaching vessels. For example, “December 28, 1794: Cannon shot signal fired at French Corsair” and April 11, 1797: “Arrival of American boat which wants to buy supplies and bring passengers into St. Augustine.”

 Though today the structure is a weathered grey, when completed some 280 years ago the exterior and interior walls were covered with a bright white lime plaster. The tower was a burnt red color, a hue attained by mixing clay from Georgia with the white plaster. The whole structure is supported by a forest of pine pilings driven into the marshy soil of the small island.  u

On the Road Again

The Amelia’s 30th annual celebration, March 6-9, was a weekend spectacle of fine dining, live auctions, exclusive driving experiences and the Amelia Concours D’Elegance. More than 17,000 patrons attended the various events and 240 rare and historically significant vehicles were showcased in the afternoon Concours, a rolling display spread across two golf course

fairways adjacent to the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. “Best in Show” honors were awarded to two autos, a 1938 Alfa Romeo and a 1967 Lotus. Broad Arrow Auctions hosted a standing-room-only sale featuring spirited bidding over two days. The top sale of the weekend was a 1959 Ferrari 250, which achieved a final bid of $9,465,000. “More than 100 years of classics were present this

weekend as thousands of people gathered on the show fields to honor automotive history and celebrate car culture,” says McKeel Hagerty, chair of The Amelia. “My heartfelt thanks go to our guests, spectators, volunteers, and everyone else who helps make this celebration one of the greatest annual events for car lovers, young and old.” The Amelia returns in 2026, March 5-8. u

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

Northeast Florida’s leading attorneys as named by their peers

In almost everything we do—from buying a house to driving a car to selecting our elected officials— is affected by the law in some way. That said, we don’t need a lawyer for most of our everyday interactions. So, when do you need a lawyer? And when can (or should) you handle a matter on your own? Truth is, most of our problems are not really legal—or are not exclusively legal—and can be handled, at least in part, with the help of psychologists, the clergy or other counselors. Talking with a trusted friend or family member is often the best idea. However, there are situations that do have a legal dimension and require a lawyer’s help. When you find yourself in such a circumstance, finding the right attorney is crucial. So, who are you gonna’ call?

The question is the basic premise of The Best Lawyers in America®. To provide an answer, they go directly to those who know the law best—practicing attorneys.

AND &Attorney Practice PROFILES 2025

This list on the following pages is excerpted from the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, the pre-eminent referral guide to the legal profession in the United States. Published since 1983, Best Lawyers® lists attorneys in 146 specialties, representing all 50 states, who have been chosen through an exhaustive survey in which thousands of the nation’s top lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The 2025 edition of Best Lawyers® is based on 8.3 million evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers.

The method used to compile Best Lawyers® remains unchanged since the first edition was compiled almost 40 years ago. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on the vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers® remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings.

The nomination pool for the new edition consisted of all lawyers whose names appeared in the previous edition of Best Lawyers®, lawyers who were nominated since the previous survey, and new nominees solicited from listed attorneys. In general, lawyers were asked to vote only on nominees in their own specialty in their own jurisdiction. Lawyers in closely related specialties were asked to vote across specialties, as were lawyers in smaller jurisdictions. Where specialties are national or international in nature, lawyers were asked to vote nationally as well as locally. Voting lawyers were also given an opportunity to offer more detailed comments on nominees. Each year, half of the voting pool receives fax or email ballots; the other half is polled by phone.

Voting lawyers were provided this general guideline for determining if a nominee should be listed among “the best”: “If you had a close friend or relative who needed a real estate lawyer (for example), and

*“LAWYER OF THE YEAR”:

you could not handle the case yourself, to whom would you refer them?” All votes and comments were solicited with a guarantee of confidentiality—a critical factor in the viability and validity of Best Lawyers®’ surveys. To ensure the rigor of the selection process, lawyers were urged to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each nominee based only on his or her individual merits. The additional comments were used to make more accurate comparisons between voting patterns and weight votes accordingly. Best Lawyers® uses various methodological tools to identify and correct for anomalies in both the nomination and voting process.

Ultimately, of course, a lawyer’s inclusion is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow attorneys. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, the breadth of the survey, the candor of the respondents, and the sophistication of the polling methodology largely correct for any biases.

For all these reasons, Best Lawyers® lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate and useful guide to the best lawyers in the United States available anywhere.

Additional recognitions are also awarded to individual lawyers with the highest overall peer-feedback for a specific practice area and geographic region. Only one lawyer is recognized as the “Lawyer of the Year” for each specialty and location. Jacksonville’s Lawyers of the Year for 2025 are highlighted by an asterisk (*) before their name.

ADMINISTRATIVE / REGULATORY LAW

Sidney F. Ansbacher

Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

Wyman R. Duggan

Rogers Towers

Fred D. Franklin

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Patrick W. Krechowski

Balch & Bingham

*Charles F. Mills III

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

Emily Pierce

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Mark H. Scruby

Rogers Towers

John W. Wallace

Smith Hulsey & Busey

ADMIRALTY & MARITIME LAW

Phillip A. Buhler

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

*James F. Moseley, Jr.

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

Robert B. Parrish

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

Thomas C. Sullivan

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

ANTITRUST LAW

Stephen D. Busey

Smith Hulsey & Busey

APPELLATE PRACTICE

Sidney F. Ansbacher

Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

Rebecca B. Creed

Creed & Gowdy

Bryan E. DeMaggio

Sheppard, White, Kachergus, & DeMaggio

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray, P.A.

Bryan S. Gowdy

Creed & Gowdy

William S. Graessle

William S. Graessle

Jessie Harrell

The Harrell Firm

Matthew R. Kachergus

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

William Kent

Kent & McFarland

Michael Korn

Korn & Zehmer

Cindy A. Laquidara

Akerman

John S. Mills

Bishop Page & Mills

*Peggy-Anne O’Connor

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

Michael Fox Orr

Orr | Cook

Jeremy M. Paul Orr | Cook

Cristine M. Russell Rogers Towers

Aaron Sprague Coker Law

Michael G. Tanner Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Daniel Gray Thomas Law Office of D. Gray Thomas

Kristen L. Wenger Rivkin Radler

Elizabeth L. White Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

John Woodlee

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

ARBITRATION

A. Graham Allen Rogers Towers

Christopher C. Hazelip Rogers Towers, P.A.

Susan E. Mack

Law Offices of Susan E. Mack, P.A.

Edward McCarthy III Rogers Towers, P.A.

Oscar A. Sanchez OAS Mediation

Kenneth A. Tomchin Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

*Timothy W. Volpe Adams and Reese

AVIATION LAW

Edward M. Booth

Marks Gray

Keith Maynard Spohrer Dodd

Robert F. Spohrer Spohrer Dodd

BANKING & FINANCE LAW

J.I. Vance Berry, Jr. Stoneburner Berry Purcell & Campbell

Matthew G. Breuer Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Ivan A. Colao Holland & Knight

Betsy C. Cox Rogers Towers

Gardner F. Davis Foley & Lardner LLP

Christian P. George Akerman

Thomas E. Gibbs Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

Geremy Gregory Balch & Bingham

Richard W. Hawthorne Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Charles B. Jimerson Jimerson Birr

Edward L. Kelly Rogers Towers

Frederick H. Kent III

Marks Gray

Matthew S. McAfee

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Frank E. Morreale

Holland & Knight LLP

James L. Purcell, Jr.

Stoneburner Berry Purcell & Campbell

Brian L. Putnal

Smith Hulsey & Busey

John T. Rogerson III

Adams and Reese

William E. Scheu

Rogers Towers

John T. Sefton

Rogers Towers

*John R. Thomas

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Timothy W. Vople

Adams and Reese

Christopher A. Walker

Lippies Mathias

Irvin M. Weinstein

Rogers Towers

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Thomas G. Wilson

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

BANKRUPTCY & CREDITOR

DEBTOR RIGHTS / INSOLVENCY & REORGANIZATION LAW

Jason Burnett

GrayRobinson

*Stephen D. Busey

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

Timothy S. Danninger

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart, P.A.

Gardner F. Davis

Foley & Lardner

Michael E. Demont

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Christian P. George Akerman

Edward Jackson

Edward P. Jackson

Amy M. Leitch Ackerman LLP

Bradley R. Markey

Thames Markey

William McDaniel

Lansing Roy

Mark S. Mitchell

Rogers Towers

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Armando Nozzolillo

Burr & Forman

David E. Otero

Akerman

Leanne Prendergast

Pierson Ferdinand

James H. Post

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr.

Marks Gray

John T. Rogerson III

Adams and Reese

Adrian Rust

Burr & Forman

J. Ellsworth Summers, Jr.

Burr & Forman

Michael Waskiewicz

Burr & Forman

Alan M. Weiss

Holland & Knight

BET-THE-COMPANY LITIGATION

A. Graham Allen

Rogers Towers

Geddes D. Anderson, Jr.

Murphy & Anderson, P.A.

Stephen D. Busey

Smith Hulsey & Busey

W. Braxton Gillam IV

Milam Howard Nicandri & Gillam

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

E. Lanny Russell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Michael G. Tanner

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS (INCLUDING LLCS & PARTNERSHIPS)

Daniel D. Akel

Lippes Mathias LLP

Edward C. Akel

Lippes Mathias LLP

K. Mac Bracewell

Rogers Towers

Kevin B. Cook Orr | Cook

*Gardner F. Davis Foley & Lardner

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

David S. Dunn

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Michael R. Freed Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

J. Phillip Gibbs Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Matthew Harrod Harrod Law

E. Allen Hieb, Jr. Rogers Towers

J. David Jeans RezLegal, LLC

Frederick H. Kent III Marks Gray

Jeffrey M. McFarland Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Joseph Clay Meux

Rogers Towers

Stephen D. Moore, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Beverly Pascoe Orr | Cook

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr. Marks Gray

Douglas H. Shaver

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Irvin M. Weinstein

Rogers Towers

Lauren Weisman Balch & Bingham

CIVIL RIGHTS LAW

Bryan E. DeMaggio

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

Neil L. Henrichsen Henrichsen Law Group PLLC

*Matthew R. Kachergus Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

COMMERCIAL FINANCE LAW

Matthew G. Breuer Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

C. Davis Ely Rogers Towers

Reed W. Grimm

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Emily F. Magee

Butler Snow

Timothy F. May Burr & Forman

William E. Scheu

Rogers Towers

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Michael A. Abel

Asserson Law Offices

Sami R. Achem, Jr. Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

William E. Adams, Jr. Adams Dispute Resolution

A. Graham Allen

Rogers Towers

Geddes D. Anderson, Jr. Murphy & Anderson

Casey W. Arnold Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

John S. Baker, IV Burr & Forman

Davis D. Balz

Murphy & Anderson

Aleksas A. Barauskas

Terrell Hogan

Daniel K. Bean

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Jill F. Bechtold Rivkin Radler

James O. Birr

Jimerson Birr, P.A.

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

CONTINUED...

Thomas E. Bishop

Bishop Page & Mills

Michael B. Bittner

Bittner Legal Group, P.A.

James A. Bledsoe, Jr.

Bledsoe, Jacobson, Schmidt, Wright & Sussman

Francis Boyer

Boyer Law Firm, P.L.

Dana G. Bradford II Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Crystal T. Broughan

Marks Gray

Steven E. Brust

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

David D. Burns

Ferrelle Burns

Stephen D. Busey

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Michael Cavendish

Cavendish Partners

Rachel Chewning Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Patrick P. Coll

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Timothy J. Conner

Holland & Knight

Kevin B. Cook

Orr | Cook

Edward K. Cottrell

Rivkin Radler

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

Kathleen Crowley Orr | Cook

Timothy S. Danninger

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Julia M. Holden Davis

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

William E. Davis

William E. Davis

John A. Delaney

Rogers Towers

Michael E. Demont

Smith Hulsey & Busey

R. Christopher Dix

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Christian E. Dodd

Hickey Smith Dodd LLP

R.H. Farnell II

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Rene Fix

Orr | Cook

Fred D. Franklin

Rogers Towers

Michael R. Freed

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Scott S. Gallagher

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Christian P. George Akerman

W. Braxton Gillam IV

Milam Howard Nicandri & Gillam

Lawton R, Graves

Murphy & Anderson

Christopher J. Greene

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Geremy Gregory Balch & Bingham LLP

William Grimsley

McGlinchey Stafford PLLC

Michael M. Gropper

Holland & Knight LLP

Austin T. Hamilton

Jimerson Birr, P.A.

Peter P. Hargitai

Holland & Knight

Trevor Hawes Coker Law

Christopher C. Hazelip Rogers Towers

Megan R. Heiden

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Emily Friend Horner Foley & Lardner LLP

W. Charles Hughes Siegel Hughes & Ross

Matthew T. Jackson

Brennan, Manna & Diamond

Charles B. Jimerson

Jimerson Birr, P.A.

Scott J. Kennelly Rogers Towers

Daniel J. Kissane Cole, Scott & Kissane

Joshua La Bouef Brennan, Manna & Diamond

John Leonard Orr | Cook

M. Richard Lewis, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

J. Michael Lindell

Lindell Farson & Zebouni

Michael Lockamy

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Fred J. Lotterhos III Lotterhos ADR

Christen E. Luikart

Murphy & Anderson

Gregory F. Lunny Burr & Forman LLP

C. Ryan Maloney Shutts & Bowen

John P. Marino

Rivkin Radler

Bradley R. Markey

Thames Markey

James R. McCachren III

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers

Logan K. McEwen

Marks Gray

Mark S. Mitchell

Rogers Towers

Megan K. Moon

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

James D. Morgan

O’Hara Law Firm P.A.

Frank E. Morreale

Holland & Knight

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Ken Norrie

Rogers Towers

Michael J. Obringer

Orr | Cook

Tyler J. Oldenburg

Marks Gray

Jamie W. Olinto

James W. Olinto

Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

John D. Osgathorpe

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Kathryn M. Oughton

Boyd & Jenerette, P.A.

Jeremy M. Paul Orr | Cook

Joseph Pickles Orr | Cook

James H. Post

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Paula Post

The Post Law Firm

Leanne Prendergast

Pierson Ferdinand

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr.

Marks Gray

Lauren Vickroy Purdy

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Jeffrey C. Regan

Regan Atwood

Bethany Ray Reichard

Lippes Mathias

Devon Richards

Shuffield Lowman

James M. Riley

Rogers Towers

Joshua H. Roberts

Holland & Knight

Cristine M. Russell

Rogers Towers

E. Lanny Russell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Adrian Rust

Burr & Forman

Oscar A. Sanchez

OAS Mediation

Terrance E. Schmidt

Terrance E. Schmidt

Robert E. Schrader, III

Boyd & Jenerette, P.A.

Christina M. Schwing

Holland & Knight

Joel Settembrini, Jr.

Saalfield Shad

Adam R. Smart

Burr & Forman

R. Troy Smith

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Troy K. Smith

Burr & Forman

Giovanni Stewart Orr | Cook

Richard M. Stoudemire

HR Law

Asghar A. Syed

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Michael G. Tanner

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

John R. Thomas

Smith Hulsey & Busey

M. Scott Thomas Burr & Forman

Kenneth A. Tomchin

Taylor, Day, Grinm & Boyd

Lindsey R. Trowell

Rivkin Radler, LLP

John A. Tucker

Foley & Lardner

Timothy W. Vople

Adams and Reese

Alan S. Wachs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Hans C. Wahl Cobb & Gonzalez

Robert Warren Law Offices of Robert E. Warren

Lee D. Wedekind III

Wedekind

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

S. Grier Wells GrayRobinson

Edward M. Whelan Whelan Construction Law

Leslie A. Wickes Adams and Reese LLP

John Woodlee Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans, & Coxe

Cheryl L. Worman Rogers Towers

Kenneth B. Wright Bledsoe, Jacobson, Schmidt, Wright & Sussman

Jeffrey S. York Shutts & Bowen

COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS/UCC LAW

Kevin B. Cook Orr | Cook

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Richard W. Hawthorne Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

*Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr. Marks Gray

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATON LAW

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

James O. Birr Jimerson Birr

David Rottman

Coker Law

Hans C. Wahl Cobb & Gonzalez

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Adam G. Adams III A.G. Adams Law

Robert Aguilar Aguilar & Sieron, P.A.

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Fred Atwood Regan Atwood

*Henry G. Bachara

Bachara Construction Law Group

James O. Birr

Jimerson Birr, P.A.

Michael B. Bittner Bittner Legal Group

Michael J. Childers

Boyd & Jenerette

Christopher M. Cobb Cobb & Gonzalez

James M. Gonzalez

Cobb & Gonzalez

Reed W. Grimm

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Reese J. Henderson, Jr. GrayRobinson

Julia M. Holden Davis

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Kellie M. Humphries

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart, P.A.

Geoffrey Lutz

Resnick & Louis

Todd MacLeod

Bachara Construction Law Group

C. Ryan Maloney Shutts & Bowen

Christopher J. Mueller

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Sean Mulhall

Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Ken Norrie

Rogers Towers

Scott A. Padgett

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Thomas R. Ray Lippes Mathias

Jeffrey C. Regan Regan Atwood

Bryan Rendzio

Miles Mediation & Arbitration Services

Zachary R. Roth Ansbacher Law

Troy K. Smith Burr & Forman

Giovanni Stewart Orr | Cook

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Edward M. Whelan

Whelan Construction Law

Steven L. Worley

Carr Allison

Cheryl L. Worman

Rogers Towers

COPYRIGHT LAW

Crystal T. Broughan

Marks Gray

David R. Saliwanchik

Saliwanchik, Lloyd & Eisenschenk

Richard S. Vermut Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

CORPORATE COMPLIANCE LAW

Brian T. Coughlin

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE LAW

Adam J. Buss

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Angela Cottrell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

G. Ray Driver, Jr.

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

*Daniel B. Nunn, Jr.

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

CORPORATE LAW

Daniel D. Akel

Lippes Mathias LLP

Adam J. Buss

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Charmaine T.M. Chiu

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Kathleen H. Cold

Lippes Mathias LLP

Angela Cottrell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

John R. Crawford

Marks Gray

Gardner F. Davis

Foley & Lardner

Brandon C. Dodd

Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

*G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

David S. Dunn

Smith Hulsey & Busey

J. Phillip Gibbs Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Thomas E. Gibbs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

H. Timothy Gillis Shutts & Bowen

E. Allen Hieb, Jr. Rogers Towers, P.A.

J. David Jeans

RezLegal

Kenneth M. Kirschner Kirschner & Legler

Marvin C. Kloeppel Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Peter O. Larsen Akerman

Mitchell W. Legler Kirschner & Legler

M. Richard Lewis, Jr. Smith Hulsey & Busey

Jeffrey M. McFarland Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Stephen D. Moore, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

James Nolan, III The Liles Firm

Daniel B. Nunn, Jr. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

Beverly Pascoe Orr | Cook

J. Jacob R. Peek Peek & Miska

James B. Porter Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr. Marks Gray

Sidney S. Simmons II Sidney S. Simmons

Clay B. Tousey III Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Christopher A. Walker Lippes Mathias

Lauren Weisman Balch & Bingham

John Wolfel Foley & Lardner

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: GENERAL PRACTICE

Gonzalo Andux

Finnell, McGuinness, Nezami & Andux

O. David Barksdale Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Brian T. Coughlin

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Ashley Wells Cox Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans, & Coxe

Henry M. Coxe III

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Bryan E. DeMaggio

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

Jesse Dreicer

Tassone, Dreicer & Hill

Ann E. Finnell

Finnell, McGuinness, Nezami & Andux

Robert S. Griscti

The Law Firm of

Robert S. Griscti, P.A.

Bennett Hutson

Hutson Law Firm

Matthew R. Kachergus

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

William Kent

Kent & McFarland

Ron Kozlowski

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

Peggy-Anne O’Connor

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

Mitchell A. Stone

Mitchell A. Stone

Daniel Gray Thomas

Law Office of D. Gray Thomas

*Larry Gibbs Turner

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

Elizabeth L. White

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

Robert S. Willis

Robert Stuart Willis PA

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE-COLLAR

Geddes D. Anderson

Murphy & Anderson, P.A.

O. David Barksdale

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Thomas E. Bishop

Bishop Page & Mills

Allan F. Brooke II

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Henry M. Coxe III

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Bryan E. DeMaggio

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

Ann E. Finnell

Finnell, McGuinness, Nezami & Andux

Robert S. Griscti

The Law Firm of

Robert S. Griscti, P.A.

Matthew R. Kachergus

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

William Kent

Kent & McFarland

Ron Kozlowski

Turner O’Connor

Kozlowski, P.L.

Peggy-Anne O’Connor

Turner O’Connor

Kozlowski, P.L.

Mitchell A. Stone

Mitchell A. Stone

Daniel Gray Thomas

Law Office of D. Gray Thomas

*Larry Gibbs Turner

Turner O’Connor

Kozlowski, P.L.

Elizabeth L. White

Sheppard, White, Kachergus & DeMaggio

Robert S. Willis

Robert Stuart Willis PA

DUI / DWI DEFENSE

Gonzalo Andux

Finnell, McGuinness, Nezami & Andux

Jesse Dreicer

Tassone, Dreicer & Hill

Mitchell A. Stone

Mitchell A. Stone

EDUCATION LAW

Michelle Bedoya Barnett

Alexander DeGance Barnett

Kelly L. DeGance

Alexander DeGance Barnett

John A. Delaney

Rogers Towers

ELDER LAW

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

John R. Crawford

Marks Gray, P.A.

Nawal B. McDaniel

Rogers Towers

Joseph Clay Meux

Rogers Towers

*Shannon M. Miller

The Miller Elder Law Firm PA

ELECTRONIC DISCOVERY & INFORMATION

MANAGEMENT LAW

Chanley T. Howell

Foley & Lardner

EMINENT DOMAIN & CONDEMNATION LAW

Andrew Prince Brigham

Brigham Property

Rights Law Firm

Trevor S. Hutson

Brigham Property Rights Law Firm

*Scott J. Kennelly

Rogers Towers, P.A.

D. Mark Natirboff

Law Office of D. Mark Natirboff

James M. Riley

Rogers Towers

Troy K. Smith

Burr & Forman

Lee D. Wedekind III

Wedekind

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (ERISA) LAW

Andrew J. Fawbush

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Michael R. Leas

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

EMPLOYMENT LAW –INDIVIDUALS

Cole Barnett

Salter Feiber P.A.

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray

James Brantley

Donnelly + Gross

Thomas A. Delegal III

Delegal, Poindexter & Underkofler

Paul A. Donnelly

Donnelly + Gross

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

René Fix

Orr | Cook

Michael R. Freed

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Laura A. Gross

Donnelly + Gross

Neil L. Henrichsen

Henrichsen Law Group PLLC

David B. Sacks

David B. Sacks

James H. Sullivan

James H. Sullivan III

Archibald J. Thomas III

Law Offices of Archibald J. Thomas, III

Larry Gibbs Turner

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

Kenneth B. Wright

Bledsoe, Jacobson, Schmidt, Wright & Sussman

Shands M. Wulbern

Law Office of Shands M. Wulbern

*Jung Yoon

Donnelly + Gross

EMPLOYMENT LAW –MANAGEMENT

Mark G. Alexander

Alexander DeGance Barnett

William H. Andrews

GrayRobinson

Jesse D. Bannon

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Michelle Bedoya Barnett

Alexander DeGance Barnett

Thomas R. Brice

McGuireWoods

Kevin L. Carr

Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC

Patrick D. Coleman

Patrick D. Coleman Mediations

Melissa A. Dearing

Rivkin Radler

Paul A. Donnelly

Donnelly + Gross

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

Laura A. Gross

Donnelly + Gross

G. Thomas Harper

The Law and Mediation

Offices of G. Thomas Harper

Eric J. Holshouser

Rogers Towers

*Kevin E. Hyde

Foley & Lardner

F. Damon Kitchen

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

EMPLOYMENT LAW –MANAGEMENT CONTINUED...

Michael J. Lufkin

Lippes Mathias

Stephanie M. Marchman GrayRobinson, P.A.

Michael G. Prendergast FordHarrison

Robert G. Riegel, Jr. Lippes Mathias

Benjamin D. Sharkey

Jackson Lewis

James H. Sullivan

James H. Sullivan III

Archibald J. Thomas, III

Law Offices of Archibald J. Thomas, III, P.A.

Amy R. Turci FordHarrison

Margaret P. Zabijaka Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

ENERGY LAW

Sidney F. Ansbacher Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

ENTERTAINMENT LAW –MOTION PICTURES & TELEVISION

Lawrence J. Najem Ossi and Najem

Michael A. Ossi Ossi and Najem

ENTERTAINMENT LAW – MUSIC

Lawrence J. Najem Ossi and Najem

Michael A. Ossi Ossi and Najem

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

Sidney F. Ansbacher Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

Ellen M. Avery-Smith Rogers Towers

William L. Finger Finger, Nelson & Maguire

Theodore R. Hainline, Jr. Rogers Towers

Patrick W. Krechowski Balch & Bingham LLP

Cindy A. Laquidara Akerman

Charles F. Mills

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

Kristina Nelson Finger Nelson & Maguire

Tim E. Sleeth

Smith Hulsey & Busey

John W. Wallace

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Stacy Watson May Holland & Knight

ETHICS & PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW

Peggy-Anne O’Connor

Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, P.L.

FAMILY LAW

Lawrence C. Datz

Datz & Datz

*Roger J. Dodd Spohrer Dodd

Sara Frazier Zisser Family Law, PLLC

Sam Jubran The Law Office of A. Sam Jubran

Sandra J. Mathis Rogers Towers

Patricia L. Parker

The Law Offices of

Patricia L. Parker, P.A.

Dee D. Reiter

Roberts & Reiter, P.A.

Elliot Zisser Zisser Family Law

FAMILY LAW MEDIATION

Sandra J. Mathis Rogers Towers

FIRST AMENDMENT LAW

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray

Larry Gibbs Turner Turner O’Conner Kozlowski, P.L.

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS

*Ellen M. Avery-Smith Rogers Towers

Cindy A. Laquidara Akerman

Charles F. Mills III

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Emily Pierce Rogers Towers

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS PRACTICE

John A. Delaney Rogers Towers

Steven Diebenow Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Susan S. Erdelyi Marks Gray

Fred D. Franklin Rogers Towers

Theodore R. Hainline, Jr. Rogers Towers

Cindy A. Laquidara Akerman

Charles F. Mills III Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Emily Pierce Rogers Towers

Mark H. Scruby Rogers Towers

*Cynthia K. Trimmer

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

HEALTH CARE LAW

Charmaine T.M. Chiu

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Ivan A. Colao

Holland & Knight LLP

Jeanne E. Helton

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Claudia Honan

Rivkin Radler LLP

Richard T. Jones

Salter Feiber P.A.

Jana L. Kolarik

Foley & Lardner

M. Richard Lewis, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

*Stephen D. Moore, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Beverly Pascoe Orr | Cook

Samantha L. Prokop Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Elizabeth D. Shaw

RezLegal

IMMIGRATION LAW

Melissa A. Dearing Rivkin Radler LLP

INSURANCE LAW

Frank A. Ashton

Hardesty & Tyde

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray

Carol Bishop

Marks Gray

David M. Gagnon

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Tashia M. Galloway

Conroy, Simberg

Thomas E. Gibbs

Smith Gamrell & Russell

Reed W. Grimm

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Jennifer Hart

Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Daniel J. Kissane

Cole, Scott & Kissane

Joseph T. Kissane

Cole, Scott & Kissane

*Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Susan E. Mack

Law Offices of Susan E. Mack, P.A.

Michael Fox Orr

Orr | Cook

Frederick D. Page

Bishop Page & Mills

Michael P. Regan, Jr.

O’Hara Law Firm P.A.

John T. Rogerson III

Adams and Reese

L. Johnson Sarber III

Carr Allison

John J. Sarchio

Sarchio Law Offices

Patrick Snyder

Cole, Scott & Kissane

Robert F. Spohrer

Spohrer Dodd

Kristen M. Van der Linde

Boyd & Jenerette

John Viggiani

Conroy, Simberg PA

Timothy W. Volpe

Adams and Reese

Alan S. Wachs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

Leslie A. Wickes

Adams and Reese

INTERNATIONAL MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

E. Allen Hieb, Jr. Rogers Towers

LABOR LAW—MANAGEMENT

Mark G. Alexander

Alexander DeGance Barnett

William H. Andrews GrayRobinson

Kevin L. Carr

Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC

Patrick D. Coleman

Patrick D. Coleman Mediations

Paul A. Donnelly

Donnelly + Gross

G. Thomas Harper

The Law and Mediation

Offices of G. Thomas Harper

Eric J. Holshouser

Rogers Towers

Kevin E. Hyde

Foley & Lardner

F. Damon Kitchen

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Stephanie M. Marchman GrayRobinson, P.A.

Lori Patterson

Rogers Towers

Michael G. Prendergast FordHarrison

*Robert G. Riegel, Jr. Lippes Mathias

James H. Sullivan

James H. Sullivan III

Gary R. Wheeler Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Margaret P. Zabijaka

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

LABOR LAW – UNION

James Brantley Donnelly + Gross

Thomas A. Delegal III

Delegal, Poindexter & Underkofler

Paul A. Donnelly

Donnelly + Gross

Laura A. Gross

Donnelly + Gross

*James H. Sullivan

James H. Sullivan III

LAND USE & ZONING LAW

Ellen M. Avery-Smith

Rogers Towers

John A. Delaney

Rogers Towers

Steven Diebenow

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Wyman R. Duggan

Rogers Towers

Brenna Malouf Durden

Lewis, Longman & Walker

Jason Gabriel Burr & Forman LLP

Theodore R. Hainline, Jr.

Rogers Towers

Thomas O. Ingram

Sodl & Ingram

Patrick Krechowski

Balch & Bingham

Jon C. Lasserre

Rogers Towers

Charles F. Mills

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

Emily Pierce

Rogers Towers

Staci M. Rewis

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Mark H. Scruby

Rogers Towers

*Cynthia K. Trimmer

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

John W. Wallace

Smith Hulsey & Busey

LEGAL MALPRACTICE LAW – DEFENDANTS

R.H. Farnell II Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Michael J. Obringer Orr | Cook

*Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

LEGAL MALPRACTICE LAW – PLAINTIFFS

John Terry Moore

John Terry Moore

LEISURE & HOSPITALITY LAW

Melissa S. Turra

Holland & Knight

LEVERAGED BUYOUTS & PRIVATE EQUITY LAW

G. Ray Driver, Jr.

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

LITIGATION – ANTITRUST

James M. Riley

Rogers Towers

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

LITIGATION –BANKING & FINANCE

Aleksas A. Barauskas

Terrell Hogan

Michael Cavendish

Cavendish Partners

Edward K. Cottrell

Rivkin Radler LLP

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

Michael E. Demont

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Fred D. Franklin

Rogers Towers

Christian P. George Akerman

Geremy Gregory Balch & Bingham LLP

Lee Stathis Haramis

Gray Robinson

Peter P. Hargitai

Holland & Knight

Edward L. Kelly

Rogers Towers

Scott J. Kennelly

Rogers Towers

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr.

Marks Gray

James M. Riley

Rogers Towers

E. Lanny Russell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

John A. Tucker

Foley & Lardner

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

LITIGATION – BANKRUPTCY

Jason Burnett

GrayRobinson

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

*Amy M. Leitch Akerman LLP

Bradley R. Markey

Thomas Markey, P.A.

Mark S. Mitchell

Rogers Towers

Armando Nozzolillo Burr & Forman LLP

David E. Otero

Akerman

James H. Post

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr.

Marks Gray

J. Ellsworth Summers, Jr. Burr & Forman LLP

John R. Thomas

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Michael Waskiewicz Burr & Forman LLP

LITIGATION – CONSTRUCTION

Adam G. Adams III A.G. Adams Law

William E. Adams, Jr. Adams Dispute Resolution

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Henry G. Bachara

Bachara Construction Law Group

James O. Birr

Jimerson Birr, P.A.

Michael B. Bittner Bittner Legal Group

Michael J. Childers

Boyd & Jenerette

Christopher M. Cobb Cobb & Gonzalez

C. Davis Ely Rogers Towers

Elizabeth B. Ferguson Marshall Dennehey

James M. Gonzalez Cobb & Gonzalez, P.A.

Christopher J. Greene Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Reed W. Grimm Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Reese J. Henderson, Jr. GrayRobinson

Julia M. Holden-Davis Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart, P.A.

D. Brad Hughes Cobb & Gonzalez

Kellie M. Humphries Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Todd MacLeod

Bachara Construction Law Group

C. Ryan Maloney Shutts & Bowen

Christopher J. Mueller Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Ken Norrie Rogers Towers

Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

Scott A. Padgett

Rogers Towers

Thomas R. Ray

Lippes Mathias

E. Lanny Russell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Troy K. Smith

Burr Forman

Giovanni Stewart Orr | Cook

Kenneth A. Tomchin

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

John A. Tucker

Foley & Lardner

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

*David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Edward M. Whelan

Whelan Construction Law

Cheryl L. Worman

Rogers Towers

LITIGATION –ENVIRONMENTAL

Sidney F. Ansbacher

Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

Patrick W. Krechowski

Balch & Bingham LLP

Cindy A. Laquidara

Akerman

Charles F. Mills, III

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

*John W. Wallace

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Stacy Watson May Holland & Knight

LITIGATION – ERISA

*Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

LITIGATION – HEALTH CARE

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Christopher C. Hazelip

Rogers Towers

Megan R. Heiden

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers

Beverly Pascoe Orr | Cook

Cheryl L. Worman

Rogers Towers

LITIGATION – INSURANCE

Fraz Ahmed

Coker Law

James Allen

Hall Booth Smith, P.C.

Jennifer Armstrong

Armstrong Law Practice

Casey W. Arnold

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

*Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Carol Bishop

Marks Gray, P.A.

Rhonda B. Boggess

Marks Gray

Dana G. Bradford II

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Crystal T. Broughan

Marks Gray, P.A.

Steven E. Brust

Smith Gambrell & Russell

Edward K. Cottrell

Rivkin Radler LLP

Jeffrey Devonchik

Campione Law, PA

Tashia M. Galloway

Conroy, Simberg, P.A.

Reed W. Grimm

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Lee Stathis Haramis

GrayRobinson

Christopher C. Hazelip

Rogers Towers

Dana Jacobs Coker Law

Daniel J. Kissane Cole, Scott & Kissane

Joseph T. Kissane

Cole, Scott & Kissane

Jennifer P. Lawson

Jennifer Pruden Lawson

Anthony Livingston Allen Law Firm

Susan E. Mack

Law Offices of Susan E. Mack

John P. Marino Rivkin Radler LLP

Matthew P. McLauchlin Eavenson, Fraser, & Lunsford

Mark S. Mitchell

Rogers Towers

James D. Morgan O’Hara Law Firm, P.A.

Frank E. Morreale

Holland & Knight

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Ken Norrie

Rogers Towers

Michael J. Obringer Orr | Cook

Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

Kathryn M. Oughton Boyd & Jenerette

Jeremy M. Paul Orr | Cook

Matthew Posgay Coker Law, P.A.

Michael P. Regan, Jr. O’Hara Law Firm PA

John T. Rogerson III

Adams and Reese

L. Johnson Sarber III

Carr Allison

Aaron Sprague Coker Law

Giovanni Stewart Orr | Cook

David C. Thompson Farah & Farah

John Viggiani

Conroy, Simberg, PA

Timothy W. Volpe

Adams and Reese

Alan S. Wachs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

Leslie A. Wickes

Adams and Reese

LITIGATION –INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

*Crystal T. Broughan

Marks Gray

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

James R. McCachren, III

Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

Frederick D. Page

Bishop Page & Mills

David R. Saliwanchik

Saliwanchik, Lloyd & Eisenschenk

Alan S. Wachs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

LITIGATION – LABOR & EMPLOYMENT

Mark G. Alexander

Alexander DeGance Barnett

William H. Andrews GrayRobinson

Michelle Bedoya Barnett

Alexander DeGance Barnett

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray

Kevin L. Carr

Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC

Patrick D. Coleman

Patrick D. Coleman Mediations

Melissa A. Dearing

Rivkin Radler LLP

Thomas A. Delegal III

Delegal, Poindexter & Underkofler

Paul A. Donnelly

Donnelly + Gross

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

Rene Fix Orr | Cook

Laura A. Gross

Donnelly + Gross

G. Thomas Harper

The Law and Mediation

Offices of G. Thomas Harper

Neil L. Henrichsen

Henrichsen Law Group

*Eric J. Holshouser

Rogers Towers

Kevin E. Hyde

Foley & Lardner

F. Damon Kitchen

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Michael Lockamy

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe, P.A.

Lori K. Mans

Jackson Lewis P.C.

LITIGATION – LABOR & EMPLOYMENT

CONTINUED...

Stephanie M. Marchman GrayRobinson, P.A.

Lori Patterson

Rogers Towers

Robert G. Riegel, Jr. Lippes Mathias

James H. Sullivan

James H. Sullivan III

Colin Thakkar

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Archibald J. Thomas III Law Offices of Archibald J. Thomas, III

Amy R. Turci FordHarrison

Gary R. Wheeler

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Margaret P. Zabijaka Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

LITIGATION –LAND USE & ZONING

Sidney F. Ansbacher

Upchurch, Bailey & Upchurch

Ellen M. Avery-Smith Rogers Towers St. Augustine

Wyman R. Duggan

Rogers Towers

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

Emily Pierce Rogers Towers

Cynthia K. Trimmer

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

LITIGATION – MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Patrick P. Coll

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Kevin B. Cook

Orr | Cook

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr. Marks Gray, P.A.

LITIGATION – REAL ESTATE

Casey W. Arnold Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

David D. Burns

Ferrelle Burns

Michael Cavendish

Cavendish Partners

Michael D. Chiumento

Chiumento Dwyer Hertel Grant

Edward B. Cole

Sodl & Ingram

Kevin B. Cook

Orr | Cook

William J. Deas III

William J. Deas

Brenna Malouf Durden Lewis, Longman & Walker

C. Davis Ely Rogers Towers

R.H. Farnell II

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Scott S. Gallagher Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

James M. Gonzalez Cobb & Gonzalez

Geremy Gregory Balch & Bingham

John R. Ibach Burr & Forman

Patrick W. Krechowski Balch & Bingham LLP

Timothy F. May Burr & Forman LLP

James R. McCachren III Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Mark S. Mitchell Rogers Towers

Terry A. Moore

GrayRobinson

H. Joseph O’Shields Rogers Towers

John D. Osgathorpe Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr. Marks Gray, P.A.

Zachary R. Roth Ansbacher Law

David Rottmann Coker Law

Oscar A. Sanchez OAS Mediation

William E. Scheu Rogers Towers

Chris R. Strohmenger Burr & Forman

M. Scott Thomas Burr & Forman

Matthew M. Tonuzi Rogers Towers

John A. Tucker Foley & Lardner

Hans C. Wahl Cobb & Gonzalez

*David M. Wells Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Edward M. Whelan Whelan Construction Law

LITIGATION – REGULATORY ENFORCEMENT (SEC, TELECOM, ENERGY)

Cindy A. Laquidara Akerman

*Niels P. Murphy Murphy & Anderson

LITIGATION – SECURITIES

Geddes D. Anderson, Jr. Murphy & Anderson

Steven E. Brust

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

*Niels P. Murphy Murphy & Anderson

Nicholas V. Pulignano, Jr.

Marks Gray

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

LITIGATION –TRUSTS & ESTATES

Edward C. Akel

Lippes Mathias LLP

Alessandro A. Apolito

Lippes Mathias

John P. Cole

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Patrick P. Coll

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Betsy C. Cox

Rogers Towers

John R. Crawford

Marks Gray, P.A.

Amanda Ferrelle

Amanda Ferrelle

Christopher J. Greene

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene, P.A.

Sean W. Kelley

Kelley & Kelley

*Shane Kelley

Kelley & Kelley

Nawal B. McDaniel

Rogers Towers

Joseph Clay Meux

Rogers Towers

LITIGATION & CONTROVERSY – TAX

Edward C. Akel

Lippes Mathias LLP

Casey W. Arnold

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Keith H. Johnson

Johnson & Johnson

Peter O. Larsen

Akerman

David E. Otero

Akerman

MASS TORT LITIGATION / CLASS ACTIONS –DEFENDANTS

A. Graham Allen

Rogers Towers

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers

Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

Christina M. Schwing

Holland & Knight

MASS TORT LITIGATION / CLASS ACTIONS –PLAINTIFFS

Brittany Ford

St. Denis & Davey

J. Wayne Hogan

Terrell Hogan

Evan J. Yegelwel

Terrell Hogan

MEDIA LAW

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray

Jennifer A. Mansfield

Holland & Knight

MEDIATION

William E. Scheu

Rogers Towers

Terrance E. Schmidt

Terrance E. Schmidt

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW – DEFENDANTS

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Jill F. Bechtold

Rivkin Radler

Earl E. Googe, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Christopher C. Hazelip

Rogers Towers

William E. Kuntz

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Mary Bland Love

Marks Gray

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Michael J. Obringer Orr | Cook

Tyler J. Oldenburg

Marks Gray, P.A.

*Richard E. Ramsey

Wicker Smith O’Hara McCoy & Ford P.A.

Geoffrey D. Sessions

Hall Booth Smith

Cheryl L. Worman

Rogers Towers, P.A.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW – PLAINTIFFS

Frank A. Ashton

Hardesty & Tyde

Howard C. Coker

Coker Law

R. Scott Costantino

The Costantino Law Firm

Sean B. Cronin

Cronin & Maxwell

Thomas S. Edwards, Jr.

Edwards & Ragatz

Lee T. Griffin

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Corinne C. Hodak

Corinne C. Hodak

Rodney S. Margol

Margol & Margol

Stephen J. Pajcic III

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

*C. Rufus Pennington III Coker Law

Eric C. Ragatz

Edwards & Ragatz

Jake Schickel

Coker Law

Robert F. Spohrer

Spohrer Dodd

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW

Adam J. Buss

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Ivan A. Colao

Holland & Knight

Angela Cottrell

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Gardner F. Davis

Foley & Lardner

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

David S. Dunn

Smith Hulsey & Busey

J. Phillip Gibbs Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Thomas E. Gibbs

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

E. Allen Hieb, Jr.

Rogers Towers

R. David Jeans RezLegal, LLC

*M. Richard Lewis, Jr. Smith Hulsey & Busey

Jeffrey M. McFarland Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

Stephen D. Moore, Jr. Smith Hulsey & Busey

Daniel B. Nunn, Jr. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

MILITARY LAW

Daniel K. Bean Smith, Gambrell & Russell

MUNICIPAL LAW

Irvin W. Weinstein

Rogers Towers

Zachary R. Roth Ansbacher Law

NONPROFIT / CHARITIES LAW

Jason E. Havens

Holland & Knight

Kelly L. Hellmuth

Holland & Knight

Nawal B. McDaniel

Rogers Towers

Irvin M. Weinstein

Rogers Towers

PATENT LAW

David R. Saliwanchik Saliwanchik, Lloyd & Eisenschenk

Richard S. Vermut Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

PERSONAL INJURY

LITIGATION – DEFENDANTS

Sami R. Achem, Jr. Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Brian J. Aull

Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Edward L. Birk

Marks Gray, P.A.

Thomas E. Bishop

Bishop Page & Mills

Michael B. Bittner

Bittner Legal Group

Edward M. Booth

Marks Gray

Hugh Cotney

Hugh Cotney

Susan S. Erdelyi

Marks Gray

Musa K. Farmand

Lippes Mathias

R.H. Farnell II

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

David M. Gagnon

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

James P. Hanratty

Marshall Dennehey

Trevor Hawes Coker Law

E. Holland Howanitz Tyson & Mendes LLP

Daniel J. Kissane Cole, Scott & Kissane

William E. Kuntz

Smith Hulsey & Busey

John Leonard Orr | Cook

*Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Christen E. Luikart

Murphy & Anderson, P.A.

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers

Michael McCoy

Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

James D. Morgan

O’Hara Law Firm P.A.

Michael J. Obringer

Orr | Cook

Tyler J. Oldenburg

Marks Gray, P.A.

Michael Fox Orr Orr | Cook

Jeremy M. Paul Orr | Cook

Michael P. Regan, Jr.

O’Hara Law Firm P.A.

Robert E. Schrader, III Boyd & Jenerette, P.A.

Martin Sitler

Martin Sitler

Richard M. Stoudemire HR Law

Kristen M. Van der Linde

Boyd & Jenerette

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

PERSONAL INJURY LITIGATION – PLAINTIFFS

Fraz Ahmed Coker Law

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Frank A. Ashton

Hardesty & Tyde

Mark A. Avera Avers & Smith, LLP

Steven A. Bagan

Bagen Law Accident Injury Lawyers

James G. Biggart

Morgan & Morgan, PA

Thomas E. Bishop

Bishop Page & Mills

Eric Block

Morgan & Morgan, PA

Thomas R. Brown

The Brown Firm

Howard G. Butler Butler Law Group

Joseph V. Camerlengo, Jr.

The Truck Accident Law Firm

Douglas Clifton Edwards & Ragatz

Howard C. Coker Coker Law

R. Scott Costantino The Costantino Law Firm

Hugh Cotney Hugh Cotney

Roger J. Dodd Spohrer Dodd

Thomas S. Edwards, Jr.

Edwards & Ragatz

Tod B. Eikner

Osterhout Berger Disability Law

Musa K. Farmand

Lippes Mathias

William C. Gentry

Coker Law

Lee T. Griffin

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

W. Marc Hardesty

Hardesty & Tyde

W. Holt Harrell

Harrell & Harrell

Chelsea Harris Coker Law, P.A.

Joel Harris Coker Law, P.A.

Corinne C. Hodak

Corinne C. Hodak

*J. Wayne Hogan

Terrell Hogan

Daniel A. Iracki

Coker Law

Dana Jacobs

Coker Law, P.A.

Janeen Kirch

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Albert H. Lechner

Morgan & Morgan

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Katherine Loper

Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.

Rodney S. Margol

Margol & Margol

Nicholas Martino

Martino & McCabe

Michael McCabe

Martino & McCabe

Katie DeSantis McCranie

Edward & Ragatz, P.A.

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Lawrence J. Najem

Ossi and Najem

Stephen J. Pajcic III

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Jeremy M. Paul Orr | Cook

C. Rufus Pennington III

Coker Law

Alan Pickert

Terrell Hogan

Theodore S. Pina, Jr.

Nichols & Pina

Stefano Portigliati

Coker Law, P.A.

Matthew Posgay

Coker Law

Gregory D. Prysock

Morgan & Morgan

Eric C. Ragatz

Edwards & Ragatz

Jennifer Reiber

Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.

Raymond P. Reid, Jr.

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Michael S. Rywant

Rywant, Alvarez, Jones, Russo & Guyton, P.A.

Jake Schickel

Coker Law

Shannon Schott

Plata Schott Law

Brent Siegel

Siegel Hughes & Ross

Charles Sorenson

Coker Law

Robert F. Spohrer

Spohrer Dodd

Aaron Sprague

Coker Law

David Thompson

Farah & Farah

Steve Watrel

Coker Law

Dianne Jay Weaver

Weaver and Weaver

S. Grier Wells

GrayRobinson

PRODUCT LIABILITY

LITIGATION – DEFENDANTS

Geddes D. Anderson, Jr.

Murphy & Anderson

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Jill F. Bechtold

Rivkin Radler

Thomas E. Bishop

Bishop Page & Mills

*Dana G. Bradford II

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Daniel J. Kissane

Cole, Scott & Kissane

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Christen E. Luikart

Murphy & Anderson, P.A.

Edward McCarthy III

Rogers Towers

Niels P. Murphy

Murphy & Anderson

Sanjo Shatley

Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.

Robert F. Spohrer

Spohrer Dodd

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

PRODUCT LIABILITY

LITIGATION – PLAINTIFFS

Fraz Ahmed Coker Law

*Howard C. Coker Coker Law

Lee T. Griffin

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Chelsea Harris Coker Law, P.A.

Daniel A. Iracki

Coker Law, P.A.

Janeen Kirch

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Stephen J. Pajcic III

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

Stefano Portigliati

Coker Law, P.A.

Matthew Posgay

Coker Law, P.A.

Raymond P. Reid, Jr.

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

David C. Thompson Farah & Farah

PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE LAW –DEFENDANTS

*Jill F. Bechtold

Rivkin Radler

Michael J. Obringer

Orr | Cook

Tyler J. Olderburg

Marks Gray

David M. Wells

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

PROFESSIONAL

MALPRACTICE LAW –PLAINTIFFS

Janeen Kirch

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic

PUBLIC FINANCE LAW

Timothy J. Bramwell Akerman

Emily F. Magee

Butler Snow LLP

William A. Milford

Bryant Miller Olive

Irvin M. Weinstein

Rogers Towers

QUI TAM LAW

D. Andrew Vloedman

D. Andrew Vloedman III

RAILROAD LAW

William P. Byrne

Holland & Knight LLP

Ronald R. Oberdier

Hatfield & Hatfield

REAL ESTATE LAW

Christine T. Adams

Rogers Towers

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Beau A. Baker Akerman

James O. Birr

Jimerson Birr

Matthew G. Breuer Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Ross H. Chafin

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball, P.A.

Christopher M. Cobb Cobb & Gonzalez

David C. Cook Foley & Lardner

Spencer N. Cummings

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

C. William Curtis Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

William J. Deas III

William J. Deas

Steven Diebenow Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Brandon C. Dodd

Smith Gambrell & Russell

Jeffery Dollinger

Scruggs & Carmichael

Brenna Malouf Durden Lewis, Longman & Walker

Fred Elefant

Rogers Towers

C. Davis Ely

Rogers Towers

Christene M. Ertl Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball, P.A.

Brenda Ezell Ezell Law Firm

Christal L. Fish

McGuireWoods LLP

Jason Gabriel Burr & Forman LLP

Charles L. Gibbs II Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Lawrence C. Gierum Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, PLLC

Doris S. Goldstein

Doris S. Goldstein

Geremy Gregory

Balch & Bingham

Theodore R. Hainline, Jr.

Rogers Towers

Austin T. Hamilton

Jimerson Birr

Richard W. Hawthorne

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Jason C. Hill

Rogers Towers

John R. Ibach

Burr & Forman

Thomas O. Ingram

Sodl & Ingram

Thomas M. Jenks

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Edward L. Kelly

Rogers Towers

Frederick H. Kent III

Marks Gray

G. Preston Keyes

Smith Hulsey & Busey

David A. King

David A. King, Attorney at Law

Patrick W. Krechowski

Balch & Bingham

Lauren Parsons Langham

Taylor English Duma

Jon C. Lasserre

Rogers Towers

Robert A. Leapley, Jr.

Akerman

Zachry C. Lever Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Sarah Mannion

King & Mannion, P.A.

Stacy Watson May

Holland & Knight

Timothy F. May Burr & Forman

Matthew S. McAfee

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Frank E. Miller

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Charlee L. Miska

Peek & Miska

Terry A. Moore

GrayRobinson

James Nolan III

The Liles Firm

Armando Nozzolillo

Burr & Forman LLP

Tyler J. Oldenburg

Marks Gray

H. Joseph O'Shields

Rogers Towers

Sally Kent Peebles Vicente LLP

James B. Porter

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

James L. Purcell, Jr.

Stoneburner Berry Purcell & Campbell

Bryan L. Putnal

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Cecile Evans Rider Rogers Towers

Mary A. Robison Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

William S. Rogers, Jr.

Smith Gambrell & Russell

Zachary R. Roth Ansbacher Law

David Rottmann Coker Law

William E. Scheu

Rogers Towers

John T. Sefton

Rogers Towers

*Bert C. Simon Gartner, Brock & Simon

Andrew Sodl Sodl & Ingram

Chris R. Strohmenger Burr & Forman

Christopher J. Thanner McGuireWoods

M. Scott Thomas Burr & Forman

Cynthia K. Trimmer Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Melissa S. Turra Holland & Knight

Hans C. Wahl Cobb & Gonzalez, P.A.

Edward M. Whelan Whelan Construction Law

Thomas G. Wilson III Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

SECURITIES / CAPITAL MARKETS LAW

*Ivan A. Colao Holland & Knight LLP

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

J. Phillip Gibbs Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Michael B. Kirwan Foley & Lardner

Daniel B. Nunn, Jr. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

SECURITIES REGULATION

Charmaine T.M. Chiu Smith Hulsey & Busey

*G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Stephen D. Moore, Jr.

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Niels P. Murphy Murphy & Anderson

SECURITIZATION & STRUCTURED FINANCE LAW

Peter O. Larsen

Akerman

David E. Otero

Akerman

TAX LAW

Edward C. Akel

Lippes Mathias

Robert S. Bernstein

Foley & Lardner

K. Mac Bracewell

Rogers Towers

Kathleen H. Cold

Lippes Mathias

John R. Crawford

Marks Gray

Timothy L. Flanagan

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Jonathan L. Hay

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Brian J. Hershorin

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

E. Allen Hieb, Jr.

Rogers Towers

David J. Hull

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Peter O. Larsen

Akerman

Kateena E. Manners

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Nawal B. McDaniel

Rogers Towers

Joseph Clay Meux

Rogers Towers

James Nolan III

The Liles Firm

*J. Jacob R. Peek

Peek & Miska

William E. Scheu

Rogers Towers

Gresham R. Stoneburner

Stoneburner Berry Purcell & Campbell

Clay B. Tousey III

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

TIMBER LAW

David C. Cook

Foley & Lardner

TRADEMARK LAW

Crystal T. Broughan

Marks Gray, P.A.

Richard S. Vermut

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Alessandro A. Apolito

Lippes Mathias

Jack Bovay

Salter Feiber P.A.

K. Mac Bracewell

Rogers Towers

Anne Buzby-Walt

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Kathleen H. Cold Lippes Mathias

John R. Crawford

Marks Gray, P.A.

Robert A. Dawkins

Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

*Timothy L. Flanagan Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Beverly H. Furtick Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Matthew Harrod Harrod Law

Jonathan L. Hay Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Brian J. Hershorin

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

David J. Hull

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Sean W. Kelley

Kelley and Kelley

Shane Kelley Kelley and Kelley

Kateena E. Manners Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Nawal B. McDaniel

Rogers Towers

Joseph Clay Meux

Rogers Towers, P.A.

Robert N. Miller Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

David D. Naples, Jr. D. Naples Law

James Nolan III

The Liles Firm

Richard L. Stockton Holland & Knight

Gresham R. Stoneburner

Stoneburner Berry Purcell & Campbell

Clay B. Tousey, Jr. Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Clay B. Tousey III Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Gerald W. Weedon

Marks Gray

Richard M. White, Jr. White, Griffis & Littell

Andrew Woods

Andrew M. Woods, P.A.

VENTURE CAPITAL LAW

G. Ray Driver, Jr. Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

J. Phillip Gibbs Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

Edward S. Sarnowski Holland & Knight LLP

WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAW – CLAIMANTS

Lance F. Avera Avera & Smith, LLP

Karl T. Green

Hardesty & Tyde, P.A.

W. Marc Hardesty

Hardesty & Tyde, P.A.

*Jake Schickel

Coker Law

Michael S. Tyde

Hardesty & Tyde, P.A.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAW – EMPLOYERS

Mark K. Eckels

Boyd & Jenerette

Benford L. Samuels, Jr. Boyd & Jenerette

Credit: The Best Lawyers® in America 2025 and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch™ are published by BL Rankings, LLC 801 Broad Street, Suite 950, Augusta, GA and can be ordered directly from the publisher. For information, visit www.bestlawyers.com. Online subscriptions to Best Lawyers® are available at www.bestlawyers.com.

“The Best Lawyers in America” and “Best Lawyers” are registered trademarks of BL Rankings, LLC.

Disclaimer and Copyright: BL Rankings, LLC, has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All listed attorneys have been verified as being members in good standing with their respective state bar associations as of July 1, where that information is publicly available. Consumers should contact their state bar for verification and additional information prior to securing legal services of any attorney. u

“Ones to watch” awards are recognitions given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for outstanding professional excellence in private practice across the country. Best Lawyers Ones to Watch™ recipients typically have been in practice for less than 10 years. The methodology for determining these awards is through peer review, the same as determining the Best Lawyers® list for each region. Jacksonville’s Ones to Watch™ honoreees for 2025 are listed here.

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

William Bradley Russell Jr  Russell & Russell, Attorneys at Law

APPELLATE PRACTICE

Minch Minchin

Shullman Fugate

Laura B. Renstrom  Holland & Knight

BANKING & FINANCE LAW

William Handle  Akerman

BANKRUPTCY & CREDITOR

DEBTOR RIGHTS / INSOLVENCY & REORGANIZATION LAW

Julie-Anna Ducey  Rogers Towers

Angela N. Grewal  Adams and Reese

Robert A. Neilson  Burr & Forman

CIVIL RIGHTS LAW

Kendall S. Manini  Marks Gray

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Kevin P. Blodgett  Smith Hulsey & Busey

Paige Cham Akerman

Rachel C. Cocciolo  Burr & Forman

Brandon Cook  Smith Hulsey & Busey

Salvatore Coppolino  Rivkin Radler

Matson Coxe  Rogers Towers

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Cassie R. Daum

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Julie-Anna Ducey  Rogers Towers

Christopher W. Earle  Adams and Reese

Julianna Favale  Marks Gray

Alina Vinci Fernandez  Balch & Bingham

Job Fickett  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

William Handle  Akerman

Christopher C. Hazelip, Jr. Akerman

C.H. Houston III  Carr Allison

Sarah J. Hulsberg  Murphy & Anderson

Michael J. Humphries  Coker Law

Robert Jameson  Woolsey Morcom

Jordan M. Janoski  Murphy & Anderson

Brian G. Kelley  Rogers Towers

John Kessenich  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Mark Andrew Krieger  Rivkin Radler

Tyler Lenz  Shutts & Bowen

Kendall S. Manini  Marks Gray

John P. McDermott

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

Mariana Muñoz  Akerman

Kimberly T. Mydock  McGuireWoods

Janet C. Owens  Rogers Towers

Adam C. Remillard  Akerman

Laura B. Renstrom  Holland & Knight

Wesley L. Ridout  Boyd & Jenerette

Richard Rivera  Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Emily Y. Rottmann  McGuireWoods

William Bradley Russell Jr  Russell & Russell, Attorneys at Law

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

Sabrina M. Smith  Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Jackie A. Van Laningham  Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Thomas P. White  Adams and Reese

Katherine R. Woods  Hinshaw & Culbertson

Kimberly Woods  Boyd & Jenerette

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Kelsey Alvarez

Hall Booth Smith

Cassidy Bergstrom  Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Melissa Cairatti

Rogers Towers

Michael J. Cox  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Matson Coxe

Rogers Towers

Michael Feinberg Ansbacher Law

Job Fickett  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

William E. Gibbs  Orr | Cook

Josef B. Hess  Rissman, Barrett, Hurt, Donahue, McLain & Mangan

Adam Prom

Hall Booth Smith

Todd Whitcomb

Bachara Construction Law Group

Katherine R. Woods  Hinshaw & Culbertson

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE & COMPLIANCE LAW

Job Fickett  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Alison Sausaman  Carr Allison

CORPORATE LAW

William R. Brown Jr  Foley & Lardner

Heather R. Lopez Rogers Towers

Mary Mahoney  RezLegal

Carley Self Menyhart  Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

N. Vincent Pulignano III  Foley & Lardner

David Roberts

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Samantha W. Roy Smith Hulsey & Busey

Kelly Dunn Waters

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: GENERAL PRACTICE

Andrew Fawbush Jr.  Epstein & Robbins

BeJae Shelton Roberts  Tyson & Mendes

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE-COLLAR

Sabrina M. Smith  Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

EDUCATION LAW

Trace H. Jackson  Rogers Towers

ELDER LAW

Ashley Fromm  Hall Booth Smith

ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS LAW

Austin J. Dragoo  Rogers Towers

Trace H. Jackson  Rogers Towers

Lauren Majure  Majure Law

Minch Minchin  Shullman Fugate

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

Kevin P. Blodgett

Smith Hulsey & Busey

FAMILY LAW

Joseph A. Alvarez  Sussman, Johnson & Alvarez

Katherine Johnson  Sussman, Johnson & Alvarez

Lewis D. Price  Rogers Towers

Camille Sheppard  Sheppard, White, Kachergus, & DeMaggio

FAMILY LAW: ARBITRATION & MEDIATION

Lewis D. Price  Rogers Towers

FINANCIAL SERVICES

REGULATION LAW

Wesley L. Ridout  Boyd & Jenerette

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS PRACTICE

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Julianna Favale  Marks Gray

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

HEALTH CARE LAW

Brian G. Kelley  Rogers Towers

Samantha B. Roy Smith Hulsey & Busey

INSURANCE LAW

Dion K. Bass, Sr.  Rivkin Radler

Kathleen A. Carlson  Marshall Dennehey  Salvatore Coppolino  Rivkin Radler

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

James Durstein  Woolsey Morcom

Julianna Favale Marks Gray

Jessica Foster Allen Law Firm

Joshua Gostel  Adams & Reese

Brian Guter  O’Hara Law Firm

Daniel Horn Taylor, Gray, Grimm & Boyd

Mark Andrew Krieger  Rivkin Radler

Kendall S. Manini

Marks Gray

William Mann  Hall Booth Smith

Victoria Merritt  Cole, Scott & Kissane

Michael Orta  Cole, Scott & Kissane

Corey K. Setterlund  Marshall Dennehey

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

Katherine R. Woods  Hinshaw & Culbertson

Kimberly Woods  Boyd & Jenerette

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW - EMPLOYEE

Cassie R. Daum  Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Conor Flynn  Morgan & Morgan

James Poindexter  Delegal, Poindexter & Underkofler

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW - MANAGEMENT

Rachel C. Cocciolo  Burr & Forman

Todd R. Dobry  Jackson Lewis

Ashlea A. Edwards  Akerman

Conor Flynn  Morgan & Morgan

Kendall S. Manini  Marks Gray

Jadie Mims Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Tracey Kort Parde  Tracey Kort Parde

Kathryn K. Rudderman  Rogers Towers

Alison Sausaman  Carr Allison

Ross D. Vickers

Jackson Lewis

LAND USE & ZONING LAW

Kristen P. Courtney  McGuireWoods

Courtney P. Gaver  Rogers Towers

LITIGATIONBANKING & FINANCE

William Handle  Akerman

Kimberly T. Mydock  McGuireWoods

Janet C. Owens  Rogers Towers

LITIGATION - BANKRUPTCY

Robert A. Neilson  Burr & Forman

LITIGATIONCONSTRUCTION

Michael Feinberg Ansbacher Law

Shane Fitzsimmons  Shutts & Bowen

Sarah J. Hulsberg  Murphy & Anderson

Summer L. Reed Cobb & Gonzalez

LITIGATIONENVIRONMENTAL

Kevin P. Blodgett  Smith Hulsey & Busey

LITIGATIONINTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Trace H. Jackson  Rogers Towers

Minch Minchin  Shullman Fugate

LITIGATIONLABOR & EMPLOYMENT

Rachel C. Cocciolo  Burr & Forman

Ashlea A. Edwards  Akerman

Conor Flynn  Morgan & Morgan

Cameron G. Kynes  McGuireWoods

Kendall S. Manini  Marks Gray

Jadie Mims

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

James Poindexter Delegal, Poindexter  & Underkofler

Andrew E. Underkofler FordHarrison

Ross D. Vickers Jackson Lewis

LITIGATION - REAL ESTATE

Mark Canfield  Lippes Mathias  Matson Coxe  Rogers Towers

Courtney P. Gaver  Rogers Towers

Tyler Lenz  Shutts & Bowen

Emily Y. Rottmann  McGuireWoods

Hannah Rullo  Ansbacher Law

LITIGATION - TRUSTS & ESTATES

Marcus Bradley Manning  Manning Law

Maxwell Potter

Smith Hulsey & Busey

MASS TORT LITIGATION/ CLASS ACTIONSDEFENDANTS

Mark Andrew Krieger  Rivkin Radler

Laura B. Renstrom  Holland & Knight

MASS TORT LITIGATION / CLASS ACTIONS - PLAINTIFFS

Kyle J. Bagen

Bagen Law Accident Injury Lawyers

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW - DEFENDANTS

Dion K. Bass, Sr.

Rivkin Radler

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Julianna Favale

Marks Gray

Ashley Fromm

Hall Booth Smith

Natasa Glisic  Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Marlana Johnson

Marks Gray

Caroline Kubovy

Wicker Smith O’Hara

McCoy & Ford

Kendall S. Manini

Marks Gray

William Mann

Hall Booth Smith

Adam Prom

Hall Booth Smith

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Mary Mahoney  RezLegal

Carley Self Menyhart  Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

N. Vincent Pulignano III  Foley & Lardner

Samantha W. Roy

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Kelly Dunn Waters

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

MUNICIPAL LAW

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Julianna Favale

Marks Gray

Kendall S. Manini

Marks Gray

PERSONAL INJURY

LITIGATION - DEFENDANTS

Victoria E. Armstrong

Boyd & Jenerette

Dion K. Bass, Sr.  Rivkin Radler

Calli M. Brockett

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Kathleen A. Carlson

Marshall Dennehey

Blake Cole  Saalfield Shad

E. Paul Cuffe  McGuireWoods

Julianna Favale

Marks Gray

Alina Vinci Fernandez  Balch & Bingham

Job Fickett

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Natasa Glisic

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Brian Guter  O’Hara Law Firm

Heather Hatcher Cole, Scott & Kissane

Justice Hess

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Amber Hraha Cole, Scott & Kissane

John Kessenich  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Kendall S. Manini

Marks Gray

Sean J. Reeves  Marshall Dennehey

Alison Sausaman

Carr Allison

Austin C. Sherman  Carr Allison

Christina Williams  Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

PERSONAL INJURY LITIGATION - PLAINTIFFS

Andrew Fawbush Jr.  Epstein & Robbins

Joshua Gostel  Adams & Reese

Jay M. Howanitz  Spohrer Dodd

Seth Roebuck  Saalfield Shad

Benjamin Steinberg  Morgan & Morgan

Michele Waddell  Rubenstein Law

PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION - DEFENDANTS

Dion K. Bass, Sr.  Rivkin Radler

Michael J. Humphries  Coker Law

Jordan M. Janoski  Murphy & Anderson

Sean J. Reeves  Marshall Dennehey

PRODUCT LIABILITY

LITIGATION - PLAINTIFFS

Jay M. Howanitz  Spohrer Dodd

REAL ESTATE LAW

Hannah Anderson

Coleman Talley

Cassidy Bergstrom

Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Andrew C. Bolender  Akerman

Cassandra Klusmeyer Brown  Coleman Talley

William R. Brown Jr  Foley & Lardner

Kristen P. Courtney  McGuireWoods

Austin J. Dragoo  Rogers Towers

William E. Gibbs  Orr Cook

Lindsey Grubbs Holland & Knight

Margaret C. Howell Travis  Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

N. Vincent Pulignano III  Foley & Lardner

David Roberts

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Jeffrey Rood GrayRobinson

Kelly Dunn Waters Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

TAX LAW

Julie-Anna Ducey  Rogers Towers

Stephen Holmgren Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Lauren Majure  Majure Law

Kristine M. Scott Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

TECHNOLOGY LAW

Jennifer Vanover GrayRobinson

TRANSPORTATION LAW

Catherine Crawley  Tyson & Mendes

Katherine M. Richters  Richters Law

Alison Sausaman  Carr Allison

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Peter Blumeyer Holland & Knight

Tara S. Forrest  Rogers Towers

Marcus Bradley Manning  Manning Law

Christine Sweet  Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart

Farhan N. Zarou  Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAW – EMPLOYERS

Abby Loeffler Eraclides Gelman u

Board Certified Lawyers Jacksonville’s

Established by the Florida Supreme Court in 1982, board certification is conferred upon lawyers by the most credible and highest authority over the state’s legal community, The Florida Bar. Certification is the Florida Bar’s highest level of evaluation of competency and experience of attorneys in the approximately 30 areas of law approved for certification by the Supreme Court of Florida. Seven percent of eligible Florida Bar members (approximately 5,000 lawyers) are board-certified. The process is a rigorous one, and requires at least five years of law practice, a substantial involvement in the field of law for which certification is sought, satisfactory peer review of competence in the specialty field, passing an examination and satisfying continuing legal education requirements. Posted here are the board certified attorneys practicing in Duval County, listed in alphabetical order.

ADMIRALTY & MARITIME LAW

Thomas A. Boyd, Jr.

Boyd Law, P.A.

Phillip A. Buhler

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

C. Ryan M. Eslinger

Milton, Leach, Whitman, Et Al

James F. Moseley, Jr.

Moseley, Prichard, Parrish, Knight & Jones

ADOPTION LAW

Brian T. Kelly

Shorstein & Kelly

Michael A. Shorstein

Shorstein & Kelly

Jennifer B. Williams

Elizabeth R. Ondriezek

APPELLATE PRACTICE

Rhonda B. Boggess

Marks Gray

Rebecca B. Creed

Creed & Gowdy

Bryan S. Gowdy

Creed & Gowdy

William S. Graessle

William S. Graessle

Jessie L. Harrell

The Harrell Firm

Jonathan A. Martin

Bishop Page & Mills

John S. Mills

Bishop Page & Mills

Cristine M. Russell Rogers Towers

AVIATION LAW

Galen D. Bauer

Spohrer & Dodd

Edward M. Booth, Jr. MarksGray

Mary P. Burnett

Mary Burnett Attorney at Law

Jeffrey R. Ludwig Ludwig & Associates

Keith L. Maynard Spohrer & Dodd

Barry E. Newman Newman Legal Group

Chad S. Roberts eDiscovery CoCounsel

Robert F. Spohrer Spohrer & Dodd

BUSINESS LITIGATION

Geddes D. Anderson, Jr. Murphy & Anderson

Gregory A. Anderson AndersonGlenn

Gilbert L. Feltel, Jr. 4th Judicial Circuit

Michael R. Freed Gunster

Wiley B. Gillam IV Milam Howard Nicandri & Gillam

Austin T. Hamilton Jimerson Birr

Scott J. Kennelly Rogers Towers

Eric S. Kolar

Eric S. Kolar

Jon M. Lindell Lindell, Farson & Zebovni

Brandon C. Meadows Jimerson Birr

Niels P. Murphy Murphy & Anderson

Jeffrey C. Regan Regan Atwood

Kenneth A. Tomchin

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

Samuel G. Wells Gray Robinson

CITY, COUNTY & LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAW

Bradley J. Bulthius Jacksonville Office of General Counsel

Jason R. Gabriel Burr & Forman

Christopher M. Garrett

Office of General Counsel

Melissa M. Gross-Arnold

The Arnold Law Firm

Sonya Harrell

Office of General Counsel

Lawsikia J. Hodges

Smith Gambrell & Russell

Paige H. Johnston

City of Jacksonville

Patrick W. Krechowski Balch & Bingham

Cindy A. Laquidara Akerman

Rebecca C. Lavie Office of General Counsel

Dylan T. Reingold City of Jacksonville

Regina D. Ross Office of General Counsel, JEA

Christine Valliere Office of the General Counsel

CIVIL TRIAL

Fraz Ahmed Coker Law

Mark G. Alexander

Alexander Degance Barnett

Allison G. Allen, Jr. Rogers Towers

Bruce R. Anderson, Jr. Duval County Courthouse

Gregory A. Anderson

AndersonGlenn

Jeptha F. Barbour

Marks Gray

Tyrie W. Boyer

Dana G. Bradford II Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Thomas R. Brown The Brown Firm

Joseph V. Camerlengo The Truck Accident Law Firm

Alexis M. Clay W. Eric Fasking & Associates

Howard C. Coker Coker Law

Raymond S. Costantino The Costantino Law Firm

Dennis P. Dore The Law Office of Ron Sholes

Thomas S. Edwards, Jr. Edwards & Ragatz

William E. Fasking

W. Eric Fasking & Associates

William C. Gentry

Law Office of W.C. Gentry

Wiley B. Gillam IV Milam Howard

Nicandri & Gillam

Michael L. Glass

Stone, Glass & Connolly

James P. Hanratty

Marshall Dennehey Warner Coleman & Goggi

Chelsea R. Harris Coker Law

Trevor G .Hawes Coker Law

Christopher C. Hazelip Rogers Towers

John W. Hogan Terrell Hogan

James R. Holland II Holland Law

Jay Michael Howanitz Spohrer & Dodd

Jeffrey J. Humphries Morgan & Morgan

Daniel A. Iracki Coker Law

Kevin E. Jakab Jakab Law

Eric L. Leach

Milton Leach Whitman

D’Andrea & Eslinger

Brian J. Lee

Morgan & Morgan

Rutledge R. Liles

The Liles Firm

Jon M. Lindell

Lindell Farson & Zebovni

Gregory W. Lineberry

Morgan & Morgan

Rodney S. Margol

Spohrer & Dodd

Michael D. Marrese

Blane G. McCarthy

Edward McCarthy II Rogers Towers

Janeen M. Mira Pajcic & Pajcic

Timothy S. Moran

Morgan and Morgan

Michael F. Orr Orr | Cook

Curry G. Pajcic Pajcic & Pajcic

Stephen J. Pajcic Pajcic & Pajcic

Angelo M. Patacca, Jr. Rogers Towers

John M. Phillips

Phillips & Hunt

Matthew N. Posgay Coker Law

Gregory D. Prysock

Morgan & Morgan

Eric C. Ragatz

Edwards & Ragatz

Richard E. Ramsey

Wicker Smith Et Al

Franklin D. Regan

Pajcic & Pajcic

Michael P. Regan Jr. O’Hara Law Firm

Matthew T. Roach

Harrell & Harrell

John J. Schickel Coker Law

Carl S. Schuler Schuler & Lee

Christopher N. Shakib Terrell Hogan

Michael Sharrit Circuit Court Judge

Scott D. Sheftall Sheftall & Associates

Thomas F. Slater

Pajcic & Pajcic

Ashleigh J. Smith

W. Eric Fasking & Associates

Thomas C. Smith

W. Eric Fasking & Associates

Charles A. Sorenson Coker Law

Matthew W. Sowell Terrell Hogan

Robert F. Spohrer Spohrer & Dodd

Donald W. St. Denis St. Denis & Davey

William T. Stone

Saalfield Shad Law Firm

Michael G. Tanner Gunster

Kendra B. Therrell Kubicki Draper

David C. Thompson Farah and Farah

Fred Tromberg

Kristen M. Van Der Linde Boyd & Jenerette

Samuel G. Wells

Gray Robinson

Joshua A. Whitman

Milton Leach Whitman

Kenneth B. Wright

Bledsoe, Jacobson & Wright

Evan J. Yegelwel Terrell Hogan Yegelwel

CONDOMINIUM & PLANNED DEVELOPMENT LAW

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Thomas M. Jenks Gunster

David D. Rottmann Coker Law

Hans C. Wahl Cobb & Gonzalez

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Adam G. Adams III AG Adams Law

Helen H. Albee Tritt & Associates

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Fred E. Atwood, Jr. Regan Atwood

Henry G. Bachara, Jr. Bachara Construction Law Group

Amanda P. Baggett Baggett Law

Michael J. Barker

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer

Charles E. Bearden Luks, Santaniello, Patrillo & Cohen

James O. Birr III Jimerson Birr

Judson C. Bradley The Stellar Companies

Mark C. Bryan Iseley Fugitt

Michael J. Childers Boyd & Jenerette

Christopher M. Cobb Cobb & Gonzalez

Gabriel B. A. Crafton The Stellar Companies

Robert J. Dill Tritt & Associates

Nicholas J. Elder Cobb & Gonzalez

Elizabeth B. Ferguson

Marshall Dennehey

Albert T. Franson

Reed W. Grimm Taylor Day Grimm & Boyd

Reese J. Henderson, Jr. GrayRobinson

Patrick D. Hinchey Luks, Santaniello, Petrillo & Cohen

Kellie M. Humphries Gunster Yoakley & Stewart

Christopher J. Iseley Franson & Iseley

Charles B. Jimerson Jimerson Birr

Patrick W. Joyce

Milam Howard Nicandri & Gillam

Christopher R. Maloney Shutts & Bowen

Christopher J. Mueller

Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd

G. K. Norrie Rogers Towers

Scott A. Padgett Rogers Towers

Jeffrey C. Regan

Regan Atwood

Bryan R. Rendzio

Miles Meditation & Arbitration

Troy K. Smith Burr & Forman

Thomas J. Tollefsen Tritt & Associates

Arnold D. Tritt, Jr. Tritt & Associates

Jason B. Vrbensky

Roberts, Reynolds, Bedard & Tuzzio

Edward M. Whelan

Whelan Construction Law

Cheryl L. Worman

Rogers Towers

Brent T. Zimmerman

Miller Electric Company

CRIMINAL APPELLATE

Meredith Charbula Duval County Courthouse

Sheila A. Loizos

State Attorney’s Office –4th Circuit

Richard A. Sichta

The Sichta Firm

Elizabeth H. Webb

CRIMINAL TRIAL LAW

Oliver D. Barksdale

Bedell

Joshua A. Beard

Office of the Public Defender

Jaclyn R. Blair

Office of the State Attorney

Henry M. Coxe III

Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe

Darcy D. Galnor

Galnor Shumard

Katelyn K. Johnston

Office of General Counsel

Austen W. Kane

Office of the Public Defender

Sheila A. Loizos

State Attorney’s Office –4th Circuit

Matthew I. Lufrano

Lufrano Legal

Donald B. Mairs

The Mairs Law Firm

Adair C. Newman

State Attorney’s Office –4th Judicial Circuit

Tricia R. Rover

Jonathan D. Sacks

Member of the Judiciary

Stephen W. Siegel

Office of the State Attorney –4th Circuit

Mitchell A. Stone

Mitchell A. Stone

David F. Williams, Jr.

Monroe Law

Susan F. Zerbe

Public Defender’s Office

EDUCATION LAW

Shawn A. Arnold

Arnold Law Firm

Melissa M. Gross-Arnold

Arnold Law Firm

Braxton A. Padgett

Arnold Law Firm

Jerry R. Poole, Jr. Duval County Public Schools

Karen J. Stone

University of North Florida

ELDER LAW

Vicki J. Bowers

Bowers & Associates

Robert K. Bryant

Berg Bryant Elder Law Group

Laura F. Jacqmein Fisher, Tousey Leas & Ball

Ailish C. O’Connor

Ailish O’Connor

Julie A. Saieg Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Carla Trinca-Conley Berg Bryant Elder Law Group

HEALTH LAW

Gregory S. Baity Baptist Health System

Charmaine T. M. Chiu

Smith Hulsey & Busey

Jon P. DeBardeleben UF Health Jacksonville

Vivian M. Gallo

Milam Howard Nicandri

Gillam & Renner

Stephen P. Nelson Mayo Clinic

Paul E. Risner

Paul E. Risner

Christine C. Whitney

Christine C. Whitney

IMMIGRATION & NATIONALITY LAW

William M. Cavanaugh Cavanaugh Law Group

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW

Fernando De Aro Dutra Wilson Dutra

Jennifer E. Vanover Gray Robinson

Richard S. Vermut

Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow

JUVENILE LAW

Troy M. Farquhar

Fourth Circuit Office of Public Defender

Christine M. Meyer Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office

Dominic L. C. Piscitello

Children’s Legal Services

Belkis C. Plata

Plata Schott Law

Shannon B. Schott

Plata Schott Law

Samantha W. Shaw

Public Defenders Office

Amber D. Speers

Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW

Ronald P. Angerer II

Brennan Manna Dimond

Yash B. Dave

Smith, Gambrell & Russell

Thomas A. Delegal III

Delegal and Poindexter

Kirsten L. Doolittle

Law Office of Kristin Doolittle

Leonard T. Hackett

Vernis & Bowling of North Florida

Gerald T. Harper

The Law & Mediation Offices of Tom Harper

Eric J. Holshouser

Rogers Towers

Samuel J. Horovitz

United States District Court

Samuel B. Kanupp

Kanupp Employment Law

Frank D. Kitchen

Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete

Leonard S. Magid

Magid & Williams

Heather A. Owen Guidewell Source Legal Affairs

Jerry R. Poole, Jr. Duval County Public Schools

Robert G. Riegel Jr. Lippes Mathias

Amy R. Turci FordHarrison

Philip D. Williams

Magid & Williams

MARITAL & FAMILY LAW

Lawrence C. Datz

Datz & Datz

Autumn L. Grahm

Ashley M. Myers

Christie Guerrero

Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite

John M. Henderlite

Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite

Joanna G. Houser

Duval County Courthouse

Matthew C. Hunt

Phillips, Hunt & Walker

Katherine B. Johnson

Sussman, Johnson and Alvarez Family Law

Board Certified Lawyers

MARITAL & FAMILY LAW

CONTINUED...

Asad S. Jubran

The Law Office of A. Sam Jubran

Ashley M. Myers

Ashley M. Myers

Molly L. Sasso

Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite

Charles E. Willmott

Charles Willmott

REAL ESTATE LAW

Barry B. Ansbacher Ansbacher Law

Tracy Lee Coghill TLC Legal & Consulting

Theresa M. Kenney Duss, Kenny, Safer, Hampton & Joos

Frederick H. Kent, III Marks Gray

Andrei A. Korotkov DF Title

Gregory J. Lesak, Jr. Law Office of Gregory J. Lesak

Herbert J. O’Shields Rogers Towers

Melinda A. Price Lennar

William C. Rabil Foley & Lardner

Thomas F. Ralabate DF Title; Dream Finders Homes

Mary A. Robison Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Zachary R. Roth Ansbacher Law

Bert C. Simon Bert C. Simon

James R. Usery Old Republic National Title Insurance Co.

STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT & ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE

Thomas A. Delegal III Delegal & Poindexter

David G. Tucker Florida Department of Children & Families

TAX LAW

Robert S. Bernstein Foley & Lardner

Matthew B. Bishop Bishop & Bishop

John R. Crawford Marks Gray

Timothy L. Flanagan Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

William R. Frazier III Frazier & Frazier

Jonathan L. Hay Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Kelly L. Hellmuth

Holland & Knight

Stephen P. Holmgren Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Michael J. Ivan, Jr Ivan & Daugustinis

Keith H. Johnson

Johnson & Johnson

Kyle M. Johnson

Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Christine M. King

Frazier & Frazier

Marvin C. Kloeppel Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

David H. Peek

David Peek

Kristopher D. Robinson

Robinson Collins

D. K. Sausaman Frazier & Frazier

Scott St Amand Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Robert H. Trudeau Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

WILLS, TRUSTS & ESTATES

Jean E. C. Coker Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

Jason E. Havens

Holland & Knight

Robert N. Miller Fisher, Tousey, Leas & Ball

Kristopher D. Robinson

Robinson Collins

Robert H. Trudeau Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Holley N. Akers

O’Rourke & Akers

Heather B. Carbone

Marshall Dennehey Warner Coleman & Goggi

Michael C. Crumpler

Eraclides Gelman Hall, Indek, Goodman & Waters

Amie E. DeGuzman

The Law Office of John J Rahaim

Mark K. Eckels

Boyd & Jenerette

Vanessa M. Herbert

Law Office of Jack D. Evans

Blake J. Hood

Mashall Dennehey

Gregory B. Lower Cole, Scott & Kissane

John J. Rahaim II

Law Offices of John J. Rahaim II

Michael D. Rudolph Rudolph, Israel, Tucker & Ellis

John J. Schickel Coker Law

This list was provided courtesy of The Florida Bar Association. Standards, certification committee members and staff contacts for each specialty are available at FloridaBar.org. Please contact The Florida Bar’s Legal Specialization & Education Department at (850) 561-5842 for more information. u

How Do I Know if a Lawyer is Certified?

The Florida Bar allows board-certified lawyers to use the term “Board-Certified Specialist.” Florida Bar board-certified lawyers may also use the letters “B.C.S.” behind their names to indicate “Board-Certified Specialist,” and the area(s) in which the member is board-certified must be identified. If the “B.C.S.” letters are used in court documents or non-advertising contexts, the initials may stand alone.

Certified lawyers may use a logo that says, “The Florida Bar, Board Certified” on their letter head and business cards or in advertise ments. Logos are available for each specialty field of practice. However, if a lawyer uses The Florida Bar’s generic board certification logo, the logo should be accompanied by the specialty field.

FLORIDA WOMEN’S LAW GROUP

DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW FOR WOMEN

HEATHER BROOKE QUICK, the founder and CEO of the premier divorce and family law firm exclusively serving women in Northeast Florida, has reshaped the narrative surrounding divorce. While divorce is often perceived negatively, Heather recognizes that remaining in an unhappy and unhealthy marriage, especially with children involved, can have significant repercussions. She inspires women to step away from toxic relationships and embark on a transformative journey towards a more promising future.

At Florida Women’s Law Group, our unwavering commitment is to support and empower women seeking change. We provide women with the essential information and tools to make informed decisions about their future and financial goals. As a testament to our success, we have witnessed the transformative journey of thousands of women navigating divorce, from safeguarding hard-earned assets and career accomplishments to reclaiming their identities and aspirations.

As an all-women firm, we intimately understand the unique challenges women face, having been second-guessed and undervalued in both personal and professional realms. With Florida Women’s Law Group, you are not just a priority; you are the priority.

Partnering with Heather Brooke Quick is partner, ANNA DURSTEIN, a distinguished and accomplished attorney. Anna is a fierce advocate for women with extensive experience in litigation and creative divorce solutions. Her dedication to empowering women aligns seamlessly with the firm’s mission, and her contributions further strengthen our ability to guide clients through the complexities of divorce.

Our commitment to well-being extends beyond legal matters. Our offices are designed to provide a calming and supportive environment for our clients. We have incorporated elements known for their healing properties in our offices, including a Himalayan salt wall. The Himalayan salt wall emits negative ions to help purify the air and create a calm, relaxing setting for our clients and employees.

In addition to our legal expertise, we delve into the realm of wellness with our exclusive podcast, “Women Winning Divorce,” now entering its fourth year. We address weekly family law topics and offer guidance to women contemplating or undergoing divorce proceedings. In 2025, our focus extends nationally, collaborating with distinguished guests in the divorce space to explore diverse approaches throughout the United States.

The podcast title, “Women Winning Divorce,” encapsulates the core values of Florida Women’s Law Group. Contrary to the misconception that there are no winners in divorce, we believe that winning doesn’t mean making someone else lose. Instead, it means gaining freedom, achieving your goals, and preserving your dignity—allowing you to truly win at life.

Committed to guiding women with compassion and empathy, our services encompass divorce, alimony, child support, modification, relocation, and other family law matters. Our all-women team, led by Heather and Anna, constantly seeks creative solutions that support and guide clients through personal, financial, and legal challenges in family courts. If it’s time for you to make a change, let us help you achieve a more stable, healthy, and happy future. Scan the QR code to access our podcast for a deeper dive into empowering insights or schedule a preliminary call to assess your current situation and let us guide you toward a future where your happiness takes center stage.

PLEASE SCAN TO SCHEDULE A PRELIMINARY CALL

8771 Perimeter Park Court, Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32216 1633 Race Track Road, Suite 206, St. Johns, FL 32259

904.822.3839 | www.floridawomenslawgroup.com

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

ANSBACHER LAW

For nearly 30 years, Ansbacher Law has been recognized as one of Florida’s leading law firms. Based in Jacksonville, the firm operates state-wide from offices in Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, St. Augustine, Orlando, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, and Coral Gables. Ansbacher Law assists businesses, community associations, and individuals. The firm has obtained Tier 1 Ratings from U.S. News & World Report in both Real Estate Law and Construction Law.

BARRY ANSBACHER is the founding shareholder at Ansbacher Law. He is a Jacksonville native and University of Florida College of Law graduate who brings 35 years of practice to the firm. Barry Ansbacher is the only lawyer Triple-Board-Certified by the Florida Bar in Construction Law, Condominium Law, and Real Estate Law. He is recognized by SuperLawyers (Top 25), The Best Lawyers in America® since 2013 in five different areas of practice, the Construction Lawyers Society of America, and Martindale-Hubbell® (AV-Preeminent).

ZACH ROTH , a 2013 graduate of Vanderbilt Law School, is the firm’s managing shareholder. He is Board Certified in Real Estate Law and leads the real estate and corporate practice group. Zach Roth is experienced in administrative law and serves as the attorney for Baldwin. He is recognized by SuperLawyers, The Best Lawyers in America® since 2021 in four areas of practice, Martindale-Hubbell® (Peer Reviewed), and by Florida Trend Magazine as a Legal Elite Notable Managing Partner.

Shareholder MICHAEL FEINBERG leads the firm’s litigation practice group. He is a member of The Florida Bar, The New York Bar, and The New Jersey Bar. A 2014 graduate of Seton Hall Law School, Michael Feinberg has actively prosecuted and defended civil actions for over 10 years. He was selected by his peers for the 2025 Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for Construction Law.

Attorney HANNAH RULLO is the newest partner with the firm. She leads the community association practice from Ansbacher Law’s St. Augustine office. She graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2019. Hannah Rullo is recognized by SuperLawyers and was selected by her peers for the 2025 Edition of Best Lawyers Ones to Watch® in America for her accomplishments in the field of Real Estate Litigation.

Ansbacher Law is a team of 40 professionals, including 12 attorneys. The firm’s experience and results, as well as its dedication to its clients, have earned Ansbacher Law the reputation as “The Lawyers You Want on Your Side.”

ANSBACHER LAW

904.737.4600 | www.ansbacher.net

Michael Feinberg, Hannah Rullo, Barry Ansbacher, and Zachary Roth

EDWARDS & RAGATZ, P.A.

PERSONAL INJURY LITIGATION

At Edwards & Ragatz, we give Jacksonville residents a voice in the courtroom. Partners Tom Edwards and Eric Ragatz help clients navigate the complex legal process. They provide diligent advocacy and work every case like it’s going to trial, so clients receive the justice and the compensation they deserve.

TOM EDWARDS graduated from Stetson Law in 1983. He is a Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer. Tom is rated AV Preeminent®, is listed as one of the The Best Lawyers in America® since 2012 in two practice areas by Best Lawyers®, is recognized in Florida Trend’s Legal Elite, and has been recognized on the Florida Super Lawyers list for over a decade. Tom served as past president of the Florida Justice Association (FJA), Jacksonville Chapter of the ABOTA, Jacksonville Bar, and Jacksonville Trial Lawyers and is on the National Board of Directors for ABOTA. Tom serves on the Florida Supreme Court Judicial Management Council and served as a Commissioner for the Florida Commission on Access to Civil Justice. Tom is a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and was honored with the B.J. Masterson Award for Professionalism by the FJA. In 2020, Tom received the Al Cone Lifetime Achievement Award for a career of leadership and courage as a trial lawyer. In 2024, Tom received the Perry Nichols Award. The Perry Nichols Award is the highest honor the FJA bestows and gives recognition to an individual who has dedicated a lifetime to the pursuit of justice through extended and distinguished service to the cause of justice in Florida and in the nation. In 2025, Tom received the Compassionate Gladiator Award. The Compassionate Gladiator Award is presented annually to one male and one female attorney who exemplify the best qualities of the legal profession, balancing fierce advocacy with compassion, integrity, and kindness.

ERIC RAGATZ received his Juris Doctorate degree, cum laude, from Stetson University College of Law in 1996. He is the managing

partner of Edwards & Ragatz and has been a Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer since 2019. He is rated AV Preeminent®, has been honored by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® in both Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice since 2017, and has been recognized on the Florida Super Lawyers list every year since 2014. Eric is admitted to all Florida Courts, all United States District Courts in Florida and is a licensed member of the State Bar of Georgia. Eric has achieved numerous jury verdicts and obtained multiple, milliondollar settlements in both Florida and Georgia.

In 2012, Tom and Eric won a landmark verdict. The medical malpractice case resulted in a verdict* of $178 million, including $10 million in punitive damages from HCA/Memorial Hospital. Due to sanctions, the judgment was approximately $228 million – one of the largest malpractice awards in the history of the state. This was the largest malpractice verdict in the country for that year. Tom and Eric were pleased that their client saw the justice that he deserved.

In 2014 and in all years since, Edwards & Ragatz has been named by Best Lawyers® as a Tier 1 Best Law firm in both Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury in the region. With unmatched compassion and record-setting results, Edwards & Ragatz is honored to serve the people of Jacksonville and throughout the state.

*Awarded amounts are before deduction for attorney’s fees and expenses. Most cases result in a lower recovery. It should not be assumed that your case will have as beneficial a result.

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S &Attorney Practice

PROFILES 2025

Tom Edwards and Eric Ragatz

PAJCIC & PAJCIC

The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic was founded more than 50 years ago by brothers STEVE and GARY PAJCIC. The year was 1974 and Steve was also just elected to his first term in the Florida legislature. Since then, the firm has grown significantly handling serious personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death cases both in Florida and nationally. Truck crashes have been a major focus of the practice, with recent verdicts of over $1 billion and $141 million, among the top trucking verdicts in the country.

Gary passed away unexpectedly in 2006, but Steve has carried on the practice with three of Gary’s sons and his own. There are now 17 attorneys in the firm who have amassed over 550 years of combined legal experience, zealously representing their clients in their time of need. Pajcic & Pajcic attorneys have been trusted to handle some of the most complex and challenging cases.

Pajcic attorneys also have deep ties to the community. They serve in leadership roles on boards and charities. They donate to educational causes and are involved in organizations that strive to improve the quality of life for Jacksonville residents. Just last

year, the Pajcic Firm topped the $1 million mark in donations to Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, through the firm’s annual Yard Golf fundraising event.

Pajcic & Pajcic’s ultimate goal is to obtain justice and a full and fair recovery for every client. From the beginning, outstanding service was the signature of the firm and 50 years later, remains so today.

ST. DENIS & DAVEY, P.A .

TRIAL LAW FIRM

St. Denis & Davey is an award-winning trial law firm with 17 lawyers in Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, and Panama City, covering North, Central and South Florida, as well as the Panhandle. They have lawyers licensed in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, and New York. The firm has recovered millions of dollars for individuals and businesses that have been damaged by lawyer and accountant professional malpractice.

The firm’s dedicated team of attorneys have been recognized by their peers as leading professionals, including Brian Davey as a Florida Super Lawyer and Brittany Ford as a Florida Super Lawyer Rising Star. In addition, Brittany was awarded the Florida Association of Women Lawyers’ 2023 Leader in Law Award.

DON ST. DENIS, the firm’s senior founding shareholder, is Board Certified in Civil Trial Practice by the Florida Bar and is AV peer review rated by Martindale-Hubbell®. Don has been selected as a Florida Super Lawyer each year since 2008. He is a life member of the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums and named one of America’s Top 100 Civil Defense Litigators. He has been recognized by The Elite Lawyers of America as a civil trial lawyer who obtained multiple verdicts or settlements of at least two million dollars, and he was awarded one of the largest verdicts to be upheld on appeal by the First District Court of Appeals in Florida under the Substantial Certainty Doctrine.

St. Denis & Davey handles complex liability and litigation matters for businesses and individuals, including pre-suit resolution, mediation or arbitration, and trial. They have extensive experience in defending all types of civil liability matters including those injured by the professional malpractice of lawyers and accountants, automobile and motorized vehicle negligence, trucking and transportation liability, dealership defense, construction defect litigation, personal injury, catastrophic loss and wrongful death, medical malpractice defense, nursing home defense, premises liability defense, products liability, and other general liability and casualty matters. A large part of the firm’s practice concentrates on insurance defense litigation and serving the needs of insurance carriers and their insureds.

1300 Riverplace Blvd. Suite 401 Jacksonville, FL 32207

904.396.1996

stdenisdavey.com

Eric Bradstreet, Brittany Ford, Don St. Denis, Kacie Hutchinson, Brian Davey

BACHARA CONSTRUCTION LAW GROUP

CONSTRUCTION LAW & CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

With offices in Jacksonville and St. Petersburg, Bachara Construction Law Group represents clients throughout Florida in every type of construction dispute. BCLG’s lawyers have decades of construction law and litigation experience, and two of the partners offer valuable insights gained from working in the construction industry prior to law school.

Board-certified construction lawyer CHIP BACHARA is a licensed general contractor with a degree in Building Construction and experience working on large construction projects, and TODD MACLEOD is a former project manager and construction company owner. Both have been recognized multiple times by Best Lawyers®, which named Chip Jacksonville’s “Lawyer of the Year” for Construction Law for the sixth time in 2025. New to the Best Lawyers® process, partners HUGH HIGGINS, a Board-certified construction lawyer, and TODD WHITCOMB were ranked as Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America in 2025.

With a reputation for timely and effective resolution of complex construction matters, BCLG has repeatedly been designated a Best Lawyers Tier 1 Construction Law Firm. In addition, the firm is one of only nine construction law practices statewide to be featured in Chambers & Partners’ 2025 Florida Regional Spotlight.

BAGGETT LAW

THE COUPLE WHO WINS TOGETHER

Founded in 2012, Baggett Law is a boutique personal injury and wrongful death law firm dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation for clients across Northeast Florida. What began as a vision for a modern, client-focused, and resultsdriven firm has grown into an award-winning advocacy powerhouse recognized on both local and national levels.

Husband-and-wife team MATT and AMANDA BAGGETT are not just attorneys—they are leaders in the legal community. Their dedication to integrity, innovation, and client advocacy has shaped Baggett Law into one of the most trusted law firms in Northeast Florida. Under their leadership, the firm has earned a reputation for delivering outstanding results while providing the compassionate, personalized service clients deserve.

With three offices in Duval and St. Johns Counties, Baggett Law has secured countless victories for clients in cases involving auto accidents, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. Nationally, the firm’s sustained growth earned it a prestigious spot on the Inc. 5000 list in 2023 and 2024. Locally, the firm has been recognized as the “Best Personal Injury Law Firm” by the Ponte Vedra Recorder for the past three years.

Beyond the courtroom, the Baggetts are parents, mentors, and devoted community leaders. They believe in making a difference—not just for their clients, but for the entire community they serve.

MICHAEL S. BOSSEN, ESQ.

LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL BOSSEN, P.A.

Emerging as one of Jacksonville’s premier criminal defense boutique law firms, Attorney, Michael Bossen has over thirty plus years of courtroom experience skillfully defending the rights of his clients to ensure they receive the best possible outcome in their case (s). A graduate of Bolles High School, Michael attended the University of Florida where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of Journalism and Communication. Michael then attended Mercer Law School, as well as Cambridge University studying International Business Law. After graduating law school, Michael returned to Jacksonville where he began his legal career as a prosecutor for the Office of the State Attorney from where he resigned to open his own law firm.

With over 25 years of Trial experience, Michael utilizes his sophisticated knowledge of the law to proactively represent the specific legal needs of every client in cases ranging from traffic citations to the death penalty. Regardless of the situation surrounding each client, Michael is dedicated to ensuring that the constitutional rights of those accused are protected and vigorously defended.

Recently, Michael was awarded membership as an Elite Lawyer as well as recognized as one of America’s Most Honored Trial Lawyers Top 5% in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, Michael is an active member of the Florida Bar, Jacksonville Bar, American Bar Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Northeast Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyer and Better Business Bureau.

R. SCOTT COSTANTINO

THE COSTANTINO LAW FIRM, P.A.

SCOTT COSTANTINO is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Civil Trial Law. He is also Board Certified in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He has received an AV rating from the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory and has over 36 years’ experience in civil trial practice.

Mr. Costantino is a member of the International Society of Barristers and serves as its First Vice-President. He is also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates and was selected as the ABOTA~Jacksonville Chapter’s Lawyer of the Year for 2012. He served as the statewide President for FLABOTA in 2019 and is currently an ABOTA National Board Representative.

Mr. Costantino has been selected by his peers for included in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2012 for his work in two practice areas. The Costantino Law Firm, P.A. has also been named a Tier 1 Law Firm in Jacksonville by Best Law Firms® for 2025.

The Chester Bedell Inn of Court has designated Mr. Costantino as a Master of the Bench. Mr. Costantino has also been selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers magazine and has been named a Life Member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

1639 Emerson Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207

904.396.3242

mbossen@jaxdefenselaw.com www.jaxdefenselaw.com

Mr. Costantino represents clients in complex personal injury matters, including wrongful death, professional liability as well as car, trucking and motorcycle accident cases. Mr. Costantino received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Florida. He is the managing shareholder of The Costantino Law Firm, P.A. 6

Know Your Rights

If you ever have any question about your rights as a client, or about the way your case is being handled, ask your lawyer. He or she should be readily available to represent your best interests and keep you informed about your case. If not, you may seek counsel elsewhere.

According to the Florida Bar Association, when you retain a lawyer, you are entitled to one who:

WILL be capable of handling my case.

WILL represent me zealously and seek any lawful means to present or defend my case.

WILL preserve my confidences, secrets or statements which I reveal in the course of our relationship.

WILL give me the right to make the ultimate decision on the objectives to be pursued in my case.

WILL charge me a reasonable fee and tell me, in advance of being hired and upon my request, the basis of that fee.

WILL show me courtesy and consideration at all times.

WILL exercise independent professional judgment in my behalf, free from compromising influences.

WILL inform me periodically about the status of my case and, at my request, give me copies of documents prepared.

WILL exhibit the highest degree of ethical conduct.

WILL refer me to other legal counsel, if he or she cannot properly represent me.

The Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) is available to persons wishing to discuss their concerns about a lawyer’s conduct. The toll-free ACAP Hotline (866-352-0707) may be able to assist those persons who have a problem with an attorney but are also open to a possible resolution of the problem without filing a disciplinary complaint. u

DATZ & DATZ, P.A.

FAMILY LAW

Datz & Datz is a nationally known Jacksonville law firm specializing in family law, with a special focus on complex and high-asset divorce cases. LAWRENCE DATZ is the managing partner and one of the few active attorneys in Florida who is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law. He was named Jacksonville’s 2017, 2022 and 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” in family law by Best Lawyers®. He is also recognized among Florida’s Super Lawyers in the family law category, and is a Fellow of the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. He is rated AV Preeminent® 5 of 5 by his peers in Martindale-Hubbell®.

A former chair of the Florida Bar’s Marital and Family Law Board Certification Committee and past president of the Florida Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Datz is widely recognized as one of the state’s leaders in family law, high-asset divorces, high-conflict parenting disputes, division of business interests and other complex issues.

The firm was founded by his father Albert Datz in 1948. Albert and Lawrence practiced together for 32 years until Albert retired in 2019. Lawrence learned from one of the stalwarts of the profession not only to provide prompt, devoted, and sophisticated service to clients, but also to contribute to the legal profession through service.

Lawrence Datz graduated Vanderbilt University with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. He earned his Juris Doctor from the Cumberland School of Law in 1983. He is a Master in the Florida Family Law American Inn of Court, where he received the 2019 Hernandez Professionalism Award. Datz served on the Executive Council of the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar and Board of Managers of the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Currently, he is national co-chair of the Law Practice and Management Committee of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Lawrence C. Datz

FLETCHER & PHILLIPS

COUNSELORS AND ATTORNEYS AT LAW–

SPECIALIZING IN MARITAL & FAMILY LAW SINCE 1985

The breakup of a marriage is an extremely challenging time. It can be difficult to navigate the waters of a changing relationship, co-parenting children and trying to manage the distribution of property on your own.

In the Jacksonville, Duval County, FL and St. Johns County, FL areas, Fletcher & Phillips has been providing specialized marital & family law services since 1985. Our divorce lawyers understand the stress of this difficult time and work closely with clients to assist in crafting the best possible settlement.

We focus our practice in family law. This allows you to work with a family law attorney with years of experience in assisting clients through this often emotional time. When you meet with any of our divorce attorneys in Jacksonville, we will answer your questions and provide information about the divorce process. Often people have misunderstandings about divorce that add to the stress and uncertainty of the process. We will ensure you are informed about your case at each step along the way.

JANET E. JOHNSON, P.A.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

JANET JOHNSON is a top-rated criminal defense attorney who has been selected as a Florida Super Lawyer and earned the top rating of AV Preeminent from Martindale-Hubbell. Janet appears regularly as an expert in criminal defense on national TV networks including CNN, MSNBC, FOX, NewsNation, and has been featured in Fortune Magazine. A graduate of Connecticut College and the University of Oregon School of Law, she has also been selected to serve as a faculty member for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers annual seminar on DUIs.

While each family law attorney in the firm has litigation experience and is prepared to proceed through the court with your divorce, we also understand that arriving at a mutually agreeable settlement offers a low-conflict settlement option. We can provide mediation services for our clients to allow couples to negotiate their divorce with the assistance of a third-party neutral, the mediator. This is also a service that can be used for custody modifications and co-parenting plan development at any time after the divorce is finalized. 541

Janet is a fellow in the prestigious Litigation Counsel of America and has been named one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and among the 10 Best for Client Satisfaction. Her team provides aggressive defense which has yielded great success in the courtroom for 31 years. Janet is admitted to practice law in Florida, Colorado, Massachusetts and Federal Court. Areas of criminal law that are handled by Janet Johnson include:

•DUI Defense

•Federal Cases

•Robbery/Burglary

•Assault & Battery

•Domestic Violence

•Injunctions

•Sex Offenses

•Probation Violations

•Child Abuse/Exploitation

•Drug Trafficking/Possession

•White Collar Crime

•Juvenile Cases

LOCKETT LAW

DUI AND CRIMINAL DEFENSE

LEE LOCKETT has been practicing for over 25 years and has in excess of 50 jury trials to his credit. His practice is focused on DUI and Criminal Defense. He is a member of the National College Of DUI Defense, DUI Defense Lawyers Association, Florida Bar Executive Council, Criminal Law Section, and was the co-chair of Florida’s most recognized statewide DUI seminar, Blood, Breath, & Tears and served as a Faculty member as well. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers for nearly ten years and was recently elected to serve as a Director At Large. Mr. Lockett has been selected as a “Super Lawyer” and he is AV-Rated Preeminent. He has also attained an AVVO rating of “Superb.”

Attorney BRIAN CRICK grew up in Jacksonville and attended Florida State University, graduating with a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. He received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law, where he received the highest grade for oral argument in the Advanced Appellate Advocacy class and competition. After interning with Pajcic & Pajcic, Brian worked at the Office of Public Defender in both Duval and Clay counties, handling a wide range of misdemeanors and serious felony cases. While there, he was nominated for Trial Team of the Year for his work in Hill v. State 132 So.3d 925 (Fla 1st DCA 2014) After leaving the PD’s office, Brian went into private practice and has been defending clients in Northeast Florida ever since.

Marsh Landing Business Park 1548 The Greens Way, Suite 2 Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 904.858.9818 www.knowbeforeyoublow.com

ROBERT PERRY

THE LAW OFFICES OF ROBERT J. PERRY, JR.–PEACE OF MIND REGARDING YOUR ESTATE PLAN

Through his firm, ROBERT PERRY has offered affordable legal services for over 32 years. The firm specializes in the area of Elder Law including Wills, Trust, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Guardianship and Guardianship Advocacy, Medicaid Planning and VA Benefit services. The firm also offers services in the area of Commercial Litigation and Real Estate Law. A portion of this firm’s practice is devoted to litigation.

Admitted to practice law in in Florida in 1992, he is also admitted to practice before all Federal District Courts in Florida. A licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a thirty-year veteran of the United States Navy and its Reserves, he brings business knowledge, life experience and positive customer service to cost effectively serve each client’s legal needs.

Robert Perry is a Jacksonville Native who lectures in the area of Elder Law, leadership and financial management, he is active with Rotary International, Scouting, Leadership Jacksonville, Special Nation, Heal Every Autistic Life (HEAL) and his church. He devotes his free time to the pursuits of his wife and three children.

Mr. Perry and his staff handled a probate case for me. As you can imagine, these cases are hard anyway. However, they truly cared for me as a person, as well as conducted themselves professionally, deftly handling my case like I believe no others could have. I can’t recommend them highly enough. — Jeff W. on Avvo

904.240.4815 | robert@robertperrylawfirm.com www.robertperrylawfirm.com

Jennifer Hodges, Brian Crick, Lee Lockett, Joelle Lockett

KATHERINE B. SCHNAUSS NAUGLE

ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

I was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, where I continue to live and work. My journey in law began after completing my education at Riverside Presbyterian Day School and The Bolles School. I pursued higher education at Emory University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in 1998. I furthered my studies at Stetson University, earning both a Juris Doctorate and an M.B.A. in 2001 from the College of Law and School of Business Administration, respectively.

I am married to Cameron Naugle, who runs Naugle Funeral Home, and we are blessed with two children, Abigail and Logan. My family is a great source of joy in my life.

Professionally, I have been practicing law since 2001 and currently operate my own firm in the Riverside area of Jacksonville. I was admitted to practice by the Florida Bar and the United States Court, Middle District of Florida. My practice primarily deals with Estate planning, which encompasses the preparation of Revocable Living Trusts and Wills, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Surrogate Designations, and Living Wills, in addition to handling Probate matters. I frequently speak to community groups on topics related to estate planning and probate, and I am dedicated to community service, often providing pro bono services.

I have served as the Past-President of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association and am a member of the Jacksonville Chapter, D.A.R. My commitment to professional and community organizations extends to my roles as Past President of the Woman’s Club of Jacksonville, Chairman of the Heritage Committee, and memberships in the Florida Bar Association, the Jacksonville Bar Association, and the Junior League of Jacksonville. My dedication to my profession and community has been recognized with several accolades including an AV Preeminent Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a Client Champion - GOLD from Martindale-Hubbell, and a 10.0 Superb Rating from Avvo.

810 Margaret St., Jacksonville, FL 32204

904.366.2703 | jaxlawteam.com

SHEPPARD, WHITE, KACHERGUS & DEMAGGIO, P.A.

CIVIL RIGHTS, CRIMINAL DEFENSE, & FAMILY LAW

Founded by the late Bill Sheppard, the firm of Sheppard, White, Kachergus and DeMaggio, P.A. has once again garnered recognition as a Tier 1 firm in four different areas of practice by Best Law Firms® in 2025. Multiple attorneys in the firm have been recognized by Best Lawyers® in the areas of criminal defense: general, criminal defense: white collar, appellate practice, and civil rights. Ms. Sheppard was also recognized by Best Lawyers Ones to Watch™ in America in Family Law for the second year. All of the firm’s partners have also been recognized this year by Super Lawyers. The firm is also ranked AV Pre-Eminent by Martindale-Hubbell.

The firm has repeatedly been recognized for its effective advocacy, both as trial and appellate practitioners. Its primary practice area are criminal defense, civil rights, family law, including injunctions, and administrative law. The firm strives to provide effective guidance and vigorous representation to its clients. Recently, the firm added H. Blythe Dunathan as an associate after a prior clerkship with the firm.

Washington St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 904.356.9661 | sheplaw@sheppardwhite.com

Above: H. Blythe Dunathan, Matthew R. Kachergus, Elizabeth L. White, Bryan E. DeMaggio, & Camille E. Sheppard

MITCHELL A. STONE, P.A.

BOARD CERTIFIED CRIMINAL DEFENSE

MITCHELL (MITCH) STONE is a Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Law specialist (1999-present). He is Past President of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (20202021) and in 2024 was appointed Chair of the Florida Bar Criminal Law Certification Committee. After graduating from the University of Florida College of Law in 1988 he started his career in Miami at the State Attorney’s Office and then transferred to the Jacksonville State Attorney’s Office. As a prosecutor he handled cases from DUI to Murder. He was assigned to the SVU and the Homicide Team before leaving for private practice. In 1992 he opened his criminal defense law practice and since then has been lead defense counsel in over 150 criminal jury trials in state and federal courts. He has successfully defended clients in cases involving White Collar Crimes, Complex Federal Financial Crimes, Federal Firearms Crimes, RICO, Drug Trafficking, Gambling, Murder and DUI Manslaughter. He has also served as trial counsel in civil cases including winning a multimillion dollar construction defect jury verdict, a million dollar personal injury jury verdict and verdicts in civil rights violation cases. He is rated AV-Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubble®, has been regularly named in Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers®, and Florida Trend’s Legal Elite. He served as chair of Blood Breath & Tears DUI Seminar and as faculty on the Florida Bar’s Masters of DUI, as well as Advanced Criminal Trial Practice, Gun Law in Florida and Federal Sentencing seminars. He has authored books on criminal defense strategies, has served as editor of the The Florida Defender Magazine and has authored the DUI Notes and F Words criminal defense columns. He is a member of the International Society of Barristers, past president of the Jacksonville Beaches Bar Assoc. and the Northeast Chapter of FACDL and has served as chair of the Criminal Law section of the Jacksonville Bar Assoc. In 2021 he was honored by being presented with the G. Kirk Haas Humanitarian Award by the president of the Florida Bar. Over the past three decades he has represented clients including attorneys, politicians, professional athletes, and members of the military in several high profile cases. He is also a regular legal analyst for national and local news media concerning criminal law matters.

1830 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207

office: 904.396.3335 | cell: 904.536.9309

email: mitch@jacksonvilledefense.com www.jacksonvilledefense.com

WICKER SMITH

A TRIAL FIRM WITH AN UNMATCHED RECORD OF LITIGATION SUCCESS

About Us: Wicker Smith was founded in Miami in 1952. The Jacksonville office opened in 2002, led by 2025 Medical Malpractice “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers® RICK RAMSEY, and today the firm spans 15 offices in five states. For 73 years, we have protected the rights and interests of not only some of the world’s best-known brands, but also those of many beloved Florida-based businesses in Jacksonville and beyond. Our team represents clients in both state and federal court in a variety of practice areas, including medical and healthcare matters, professional liability, construction defect litigation, premises liability, trucking and automobile negligence, mass torts and class action, general liability against retail and hospitality establishments, and products liability.

Why Us: We recognize that litigation is time-consuming, expensive and stressful, and our goal is to navigate our clients through the process as expeditiously as possible. Wicker Smith lawyers conduct detailed analysis at the onset of each claim in order to provide the best possible counsel about resolution options right away. Our team is skilled at handling cases with the potential for high damages and public exposure. Whether a case should be resolved early or tried to verdict, Wicker Smith has the experience and acumen necessary to adeptly navigate high-value litigation proceedings to a successful resolution.

Front, L to R: Kyle Schmitt, Charlene Poblete, Caroline Kubovy* Back, L to R: Christopher Brown, Kevin Mercer, Rick Ramsey*, Kevin Davis, Daniel Ferrante

*LISTED IN THE BEST LAWYERS IN AMERICA® 2025

JACKSONVILLE

SUZANNE W. GREEN, P.A.

THE LAW OFFICES OF SUZANNE WORRALL GREEN, P.A.

Suzanne W. Green, P.A. specializes primarily in Family Law matters, Civil Litigation, Probate and Wills and Trusts. Suzanne W. Green has been practicing law since 1987. She was an Assistant State Attorney for five years in Duval and Pinellas Counties, Florida. Afterwards, she worked in banking and civil litigation with the Commander Legler law firm in Jacksonville. She has owned and been the managing partner in her own law firm since 1992. Suzanne has been President of the Jacksonville Beaches Bar Association, and was on the Board and Past Chairman of the St. Augustine Airport Authority, has served on the St. Augustine Aerospace Academy Board, the Economic Development Committee and is the Special Magistrate for Code Hearings for the City of Atlantic Beach. She is a respected and sought after public speaker on issues of economic development and family law legislative issues. She is a member of the St. Johns County Bar Association and Chamber of Commerce. In addition to specializing in divorce, equitable distribution, parenting issues, wills and trusts, and social investigations, Suzanne W. Green is a Certified Family Law Mediator.

105-B, Solana Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904.280.8770 | suzannewgreenlaw.com

MATTHEW T. HARROD

HARROD LAW

MATTHEW HARROD first opened Harrod Law, PLLC in Ponte Vedra with the goal of better serving his clients while keeping their costs low. Today, he represents individual and commercial clients with estates, trusts and businesses of all sizes, offering vast experience with advanced transfer tax minimization techniques and planning tools that enhance privacy and protect assets from probate.

Matt also advises clients with respect to planned charitable giving strategies and business creation, trademark filings, business operations, business contracts and succession planning. Originally from Ohio, he obtained his J.D. from Ohio Northern University and his LLM in Taxation from the University of Miami.

Matt is a Martindale-Hubbell Rating of AV Preeminent™, the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards, reflecting the confidental opinions of members of the bar and judiciary. He has been awarded the Lawyers of Distinction and Nextdoor Favorite accolades as well.

&Attorney Practice

MALCOLM ANTHONY, P.A .

CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER

MALCOLM ANTHONY is a seasoned attorney (Fla. Bar member for over 40 years) with a high success rate with all types of criminal cases. He has handled several high-profile cases and represented several high-profile clients. He has a long-standing relationship with St. Johns and Duval county law enforcement and their court systems that has served his clients and their cases well. Malcolm is passionate about upholding the rights of his clients and their needs, while defending and protecting their privacy and reputation all with the utmost integrity. You will get peace of mind with Malcolm Anthony as your lawyer.

Malcolm has earned the highest AV Preeminent client and peer review ratings from Martindale-Hubbell and was rated one of Florida’s 10 Best DUI Lawyers. He was designated one of Jacksonville’s Best Criminal Defense Lawyers by Jacksonville Magazine. Malcolm serves as a United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) rapid response lawyer. He previously served as a prosecutor in Duval and St. Johns counties. Malcolm is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National College of Drunk Driving Defense.

814 ALA N., Suite 105, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 904.285.4LAW | malcolmanthony.com

145 Hilden Rd, Suite 105, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 (904) 373-6665 | www.mattharrod.com

ZISSER FRAZIER FAMILY LAW

WITH 40+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

SARA BETH FRAZIER isn’t just a lawyer—she’s a fierce advocate, a trusted advisor, and a powerhouse in family law. As the managing partner of Zisser Frazier Family Law and recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2024 and 2025, she has built a reputation for delivering results with compassion and expertise. From high stakes divorces to complex custody battles, Sara fights relentlessly for her clients. With over a decade of experience and deep roots in Jacksonville’s legal community, she blends strategic thinking with a personal touch. If you need a family law attorney who truly understands, trust Sara to guide you toward a brighter future.

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

Wild

at heart i

Jacksonville artist Kathy Stark draws inspiration from Depression-era prints to create a new collection that celebrates Northeast Florida’s most precious natural resource.

If the weather allows, there’s a good chance one will find Jacksonville native and artist Kathy Stark somewhere outside, preferably surrounded by trees or at water’s edge. Hiking, kayaking, off-road biking or just walking her dog, Talbot, Stark’s love of Northeast Florida’s wild spaces is deep-rooted and it shines through in her watercolor and oil paintings, particularly those she has created as part of a series of print-like paintings modeled after classic Works Progress Administration posters.

“While I am a fine artist that typically paints large-scale oil and watercolor paintings, I’ve always admired the graphic design style of the 14 historic WPA National Park Service parks posters from the 1930s,” says Stark. “They were serigraph (silkscreened) posters, sized 13 by 19 inches, with a limited color palette of 8 or 9 distinct colors, and no blending. Distinctive lettering was used and an iconic image was chosen for each park.”

As part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s massive New Deal, a government jobs creation program designed to put the country back to work during the Great Depression, thousands of Americans were employed at National Parks across the country. Here, they worked doing everything from building roads and clearing dead trees to constructing guest lodges and new facilities for visitors. To advertise and showcase the beauty of these natural places, such as the Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns and Yosemite, a collection of 14 silk-screened posters was commissioned. The original posters were graphically striking in design and today are considered landmark works prized by collectors. In fact, of the more than two million printed in the 1930s and ’40s, only a few thousand

original posters remain. A fan of the historic park images, Stark decided to bring the idea closer to home by focusing her paintings on some of the region’s most visited preserved lands including Kingsley Plantation, Big Talbot Island and 7 Creeks Recreation Area.

“As I studied these posters more and more, I decided I wanted to give our local parks this vintage treatment as a community project,” Stark recalls. “I started designing and painting the first seven park posters in 2023. So far, I have created nine posters and three related nonprofit organization posters. I am working on three new parks posters— Cumberland Island, the Jacksonville Arboretum and Walter Jones Historical Park.”

The posters are the subject of an exhibition that has been shown in area venues such as the Beaches Museum. They are also included in the second edition of Stark’s coffee table-style book,  The Wilderness of North Florida’s Parks. “It is my hope these posters will be a source of civic pride and a way of promoting the positive attributes of our community. I believe these wilderness parks and preserves give us a ‘sense of place,’ as they are the greatest natural asset of our area. These ‘vintage’ images amplify that message and I hope it encourages people to continue to preserve and protect them,” the artist says. u

“I keep reference folders of photos I take from exploring local parks. I either choose one iconic image or I use artistic license to combine features into one scene to capture the essence of the park. The design can take a few days. Then, I paint a small mock-up of it using the paint colors I chose to see if it all works together. I try to make each poster look different by varying my color choices and combinations so, when they are exhibited together, they vary in appearance.

“Once I settle on the design, I paint a larger version on a 24- by 36-inch panel using flat acrylic gouache paint that captures the look and feel of a silkscreen. Each painting can take several days to complete. Next, the painting is professionally scanned so prints can be made on paper in the historic size, as well as larger sizes on paper or canvas.”

The full collection of park posters, as well as original oil and watercolor landscape paintings, can be viewed and ordered at the artist’s website, KathyStark.com

Take a Hike

It’s been said that playing golf is a long walk spoiled. So, this spring, leave the clubs at home and let your feet do the walking while enjoying some of the region’s best spots to take a hike.

Even the most picturesque landscapes in and around Jacksonville don’t feature dramatic peaks or snow-covered mountains. No, our natural scenery is more subtle, it unfolds with swaying marsh grasses, twisted oak tree limbs, spindly palm trees and white sandy shores. These sights are no less beautiful than mountainous vistas and to truly appreciate our natural wonders one needs to be willing to explore what’s down a few paths less traveled. Here, we do just that. Join us on a journey to a handful of First Coast and Southeast Georgia destinations that allow visitors to experience nature at its best. The heat of summer isn’t quite here yet. Now’s the time enjoy Mother Nature’s handiwork—all just a short distance from your front door.

Northeast Florida is among the fastest growing regions in the state. So, to have something like the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve located here is a true natural treasure. The Reserve stretches across an astonishing 75,000 acres, from Ponte Vedra south into Flagler County. How important is it to the region’s wildlife? A species list recently compiled indicated the presence of at least 44 mammal, 358 bird, 41 reptile, 21 amphibian, 303 fish and 580 plant species.

The  GUANA RIVER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA, located between Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine along Hwy. A1A, is an outdoor-lover’s dream. Here, visitors can enjoy miles of open Atlantic Ocean beachfront as well as a laundry list of recreational opportunities. Hunting, fishing, biking, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, birding… this stretch of barrier island offers it all. The park is so large it will take several visits to explore it from top to bottom.

Some 18 miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the park, including the five-mile Hammock Loop and the shorter Live Oak Loop. An observation tower overlooking the marshes and Tolomato River is a popular destination for hikers along the two-mile Savannah Loop. Another tower is located near the northern edge of the park. Picnic spots and rest areas are peppered around the reserve and restrooms are available near the South Entrance. This entry point is best for hikers, as several trails shadow the 2,000-acre Lake Ponte Vedra. The wildlife here ranges from roseate spoonbills and peregrine falcons to white-tail deer and alligators. The lake is home to redfish, sea trout and black drum, as well as crab—all of which can be caught with a fishing license.



Hidden away along the Intracoastal Waterway as it flows past Atlantic Beach is DUTTON ISLAND PRESERVE, a pristine salt marsh ecosystem that is favored for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Actually, two parks in one, visitors can walk three miles of trails through pine flatwoods and live oak hammocks. Dutton Island I includes an observation viewing deck and fishing pier on the north end and a kayak and canoe launch site at the south end. There is a marked kayak trail among the salt marsh to guide paddlers. Amenities include covered picnic tables, elevated boardwalks and restrooms. Primitive tent-only camps sites are available with a reserved permit. Campers do have access to bathrooms and outdoor showers. There are residential neighborhoods only a stone’s throw away but after entering the park, open daily sunrise to sunset, they seem miles away. Admission and parking are free. Pets are allowed.

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JENNINGS STATE FOREST covers more than 25,000 acres and straddles northwestern Clay and southern Duval counties. The sheer size of the preserve means it’s ideal for very long walks in the woods. Also, the landscape features a variety of terrain. Flat pine forests give way to rolling hills dotted with spindly oaks, which gave way to swamps and meandering creeks. The changes in terrain make the forest suitable habitat for all sorts of animals, including fox squirrels, bobcat, deer, turkey and alligators.

Trails here can stretch more than 15 miles. There are several public entrance points, so decide upon a starting point before heading into the woods or you may find yourself hours from your hiking destination of choice. For example, the Evans Long Loop is just that—a very long loop that snakes through the property for nearly 17 miles. The Pioneer Trail is a good one for shorter walks, though hikers should expect some fairly dramatic elevation changes, steep slopes and narrow paths. Much of it follows the path of a lazy creek, complete with a few tiny waterfalls. This is a good one on hot days, as there is ample shade provided by the tree canopy. Easier on the legs is the Dunn’s Farm Trail, which is a flat cut through tower pine trees.

The hiking trails are open daily during daylight hours. Plus, the property can be enjoyed for horseback riding, picnics, fishing, swimming and canoeing. And there are primitive campsites that can be reserved for overnight stays.

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FORT GEORGE ISLAND is one of Northeast Florida’s true natural and historical gems. Situated between Jacksonville and Amelia Island, the island is home to the Kingsley Plantation historic site and the Ribault Club, a beautiful event space that’s popular for weddings and receptions. There is a marked hiking trail that loops around a good portion of the eastern part of the island. Walking along the island’s bumpy and dusty two roads make for pleasant hikes as well; however, be mindful of passing cars and be prepared to hug close to a tree because the unpaved road is very narrow in spots. Off-road biking is a quicker way to take in the breadth of the property. As you walk or ride imagine this—some 200 years ago, the island was mostly farm, devoid of all the palms and oaks that grow in abundance today.

The Kingsley Plantation grounds, which is managed by the National Park Service and include the original planter’s house built in 1798 (making it the oldest standing plantation house in Florida), as well as the ruins of several slave cabins, is one of the most significant historical sites in the region. The site name comes from Anna and Zephaniah Kingsley, who lived here from 1814 to 1837. Any exploration of the island should begin here. Walk through the house, the barn, kitchen house, interpretive garden and the remains of 25 tabby slave quarters. A broad lawn overlooking the Fort George River and dotted with palms makes for a pleasant picnic spot. Watch where you drop your blanket because there are ants aplenty. You may even see a wandering gopher tortoise.

The nearly three-mile loop trail winds through what used to be a golf course, first played in the 1920s. Behind the Ribault Club is a public access point to the river. It’s a quiet spot to put in a kayak, cast a line or wade into the salty water. Be sure to stop by St. George Episcopal Church before leaving the island. Built in 1882, the church is an outstanding example of Carpenter Gothic architecture. The stainedglass windows are 140 years old.

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Follow the Jimmy Buffet Memorial Highway (also known as Hwy. A1A) to the northern tip of  BIG TALBOT ISLAND STATE PARK and pull off at the Bluff Scenic Shoreline Picnic Area. The beach access point here has been washed away but for those looking for Big Talbot’s signature Boneyard Beach, this is the closest place to park. Follow the marked path to reach the beach, a walk of less than ten minutes. Get the camera ready. This stretch of shoreline is awash in the tangled and sunbleached skeletons of trees that succumbed to surf and sand. There is no shortage of picture-perfect angles for a family photo. Kids take to the fallen trees like monkeys in the jungle. Pack a picnic to enjoy the views of Nassau Sound and Amelia Island across the water. Swimming is not recommended here due to the strong currents

In all, the park contains more than five miles of beach, three miles of paved bike paths and a handful of hiking trails—all of which are relatively flat and accessible to most everyone. On the west side of Hwy. A1A are the Old Kings Highway Trail and Jones Cut Trail, picturesque walks through the island thick maritime hammock and scrubby landscape. On the ocean side of the park is Black Rock Trail, a winding path through dense saw palmetto that leads to a First Coast geologic anomaly, a shoreline peppered with tide pools and dark “rocks” poking through the sand. More weather-battered trees line the beach here, too. It’s about a half-mile to the shore—so, not much of a hike, per se, but well worth the walk to soak in the view.

Parking can be a challenge at Talbot’s public access points, especially on weekends. There are less than 20 spaces at the Blackrock Beach access. Additional spaces are located about a mile north. Time your visit to coincide with low tide to enjoy the beach at its widest. The paved Timucuan Trail runs more than three miles north-to-south and connects the various access points to the park. Joggers, bikers, in-line skaters, strollers—it’s an easy route for most anything with wheels and/or legs.

On February 20, 1864, more than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery Union and Confederate troops fought a five-hour battle in the pine forests near Olustee, Florida, about 40 miles due west of Jacksonville. The battle ended with more than 2,800 casualties and the retreat of Union forces to Jacksonville until the war’s end 14 months later. Among the combatants was the 54th Massachusetts, one of the first black units formed during the Civil War, made famous by the 1989 film Glory Although the movie does not include events at the Battle of Olustee, portions of the movie were filmed at the park.

Throughout much of the day, soldiers exchanged fire, repeatedly gaining and losing ground to the enemy. Confederate forces were close to breaking through the Union lines when they ran low on ammunition. When more arrived, the attack continued. Weary from the fight, Union troops withdrew from the battlefield and marched back east to Jacksonville. The victory kept the Confederates in control of Florida’s interior for the rest of the war

A huge reenactment of the battle is staged each year in February. The OLUSTEE BATTLEFIELD HISTORIC STATE PARK (the first of its kind in Florida, dedicated in 1921 during a ceremony that was attended by veterans of the battle) is open daily and features a shady picnic area, a small museum and a memorial to commemorate the event. The interpretive center/museum provides a quick overview of the park and its history. Outside, a one-mile trail with interpretive signs follows the battle lines. A long walk it’s not. And the scenery is little more than flat land and pine trees. But the path traces the happenings during a significant day in the state’s history. Parks hours are 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Admission is free.

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here are more than 50 miles of hiking trails and unpaved road lacing Cumberland Island, a Georgia barrier island located a stone’s throw across the Florida state line. Unlike most of the Southeast coast, the CUMBERLAND ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE is nearly free of homes and other lodgings. Only a handful of private residences remain on a stretch of sand that once was a secluded retreat for a privileged few. Today, 17 miles of beach cozy up against the Atlantic Ocean, without a single home or hotel in sight.

The island can only be reached by private boat or Park Service ferry and cars are not allowed for visitors. So, unless you plan to camp overnight or stay at the uber-exclusive Greyfield Inn, your exploration will be limited to the southern tip of Cumberland. But that’s okay. There’s plenty to see, even if you can’t reach but a few miles of the island. Most one-day visitors take the Southend Loop, a fourand-a-half mile walk through the forest, past the marsh and out to the unspoiled beach flush with shells and songbirds. The trail runs right past the crumbling ruins of Dungeness, a once-grand mansion owned by the Carnegie family that caught fire in 1959, leaving only stone walls and brick chimneys standing. The grounds surrounding the old home are frequented by Cumberland’s signature wild horses. The Southend Loop is a comfortable three- or four-hour hike for first-time visitors that provides a taste of the island’s diversity.

The River Trail is about one-mile in length and runs directly north and south, connecting the Sea Camp and Dungeness docks. Use this trail to avoid bikes and vehicles along the main road. Both ends of path parallel the Intracoastal Waterway and offer postcard views of the river and marshlands. The middle portion of the trail is a great spot for birding, with a combination of forest and river habitats. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and warblers. The woodsy path is also used by the island’s wildlife, so seeing deer, turkeys and horses is common.

Many of the island’s trails cut through mature maritime forests, shaded under live oak canopies and between dense stands of palmettos. Other sandy paths lead to interior wetlands, marsh ecosystems and the island’s beaches. A bonus to staying at the south end of Cumberland is the park service’s restrooms and drinking fountains. For the more adventurous seeking a real backcountry experience, a walk along the Parallel Trail or one of the many other Wilderness trails may be in order. The Nightingale Trail is a tamer, 30-minute hike into the forest.

The Cumberland ferry schedule changes with the seasons, so check before heading north to Saint Marys, Georgia. Also, space on the boat is limited and daily sell-outs are common. Make reservations online well before your planned hiking date. And make sure you arrive at the ferry landing about an hour prior to its morning departure time, packed and ready to go with water, sun screen, bug spray and food.

You don’t need to drive miles and miles outside of the city to take a hike. Nope, there are more than three miles of trail inside  TILLIE FOWLER REGIONAL PARK , a nature preserve that hugs Roosevelt Boulevard where it passes the entrances and runways of NAS Jax. The roar of US Navy P-8 planes and Seahawk helicopters can take the serenity out of the setting but only for brief moments. The park is complete with two hiking paths, a 2.5-mile off-road bike trail, two enclosed dog areas, picnic tables, a relatively new playground and a nature center.

The Island Trail is a loop that stretches more than two miles into the pine woods, circling back where the marsh brushes against the Ortega River. The shorter Tower Trail winds a little over one mile, roundtrip. Both begin near a parking lot and the park’s small nature center, a worthy stop for those hiking with kids. The Tower Trail ends at what you might expect, a 30-foot observation tower. The terrain here is mostly flat and because of its proximity to the river can become quite wet in some areas, especially following a heavy rain. Remnants of an old brick road built in the early 1990s and that once linked Ortega to Jacksonville cross the trails in several spots.

There is a public kayak launch located downstream on the Ortega River. The launch site is inside the boundary of Tillie Fowler Park but has a separate parking area near the Timuquana Road bridge. The nature center is open in the afternoon Friday through Sunday.

Just a few miles west of Downtown, near where I-295 crosses 1-10, lies BULLS BAY PRESERVE. This 1,200-acre property is part of a conservation easement that consists mostly of wetlands with tributaries to the Trout and Ortega rivers originating in the swamps that buffer the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail. The public park includes a one-mile loop trail dotted with huge oak trees and ferns. There’s also a trail dedicated for mountain bikes. While the overall distance is short, the hiking loop does have plenty of dips and rises. There’s a pretty lily pond and a picnic area. All the trail loops are linked so it’s darn near impossible to get lost. The star attraction here is a small waterfall— and we use that word liberally. A small creek spills over a drop of a few feet. Niagara it’s not. But the site is something of a natural anomaly in Northeast Florida and one of the few places where one can hear the trickling of water in nature. Parking and admission is free. Restroom on site is a nice perk, particularly if visiting with kids. Dogs especially love this park.

Heading north back to Georgia, takes us to JEKYLL ISLAND. About 120 years ago, this small barrier island was arguably the most exclusive resort in the country. It is said that the members of the Jekyll Island Club represented one-sixth of the world’s wealth when its clubhouse opened in the late 1880s. If you weren’t a club member, specifically invited by one, or employed by one, stepping foot on the island was not permitted. That rule stayed in effect until 1942. The names of Rockefellers, Vaderbilts, Goulds, Morgans and Goodyears adorn the register when the clubhouse debuted in 1888, Some built winter residences on the island, a few of which still stand and make up the island’s National Historic Landmark District.

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Purchased by the state of Georgia in 1947, Jekyll continues its legacy as a magnet to vacationers—and one need not be a millionaire to enjoy its nine miles of beaches, restaurants, golf courses, summer waterpark and more. Sixty-five percent of the island has been preserved in its natural state, making it a terrific place to explore on foot or via bicycle. Miles of paved walking and biking paths circle the island, from St. Andrews Beach Park at the southern tip to the Clam Creek Fishing Pier at the northern shoreline.

Not far from the fishing pier is Jekyll’s very own Driftwood Beach, similar to those in Jax. The beach and its signature driftwood formed as a result of years of erosion. What was once a maritime forest is now a sandy shore lined with weathered tree trunks and branches. The beach is ideal for afternoon picnics or late-night stargazing.

Jekyll is not a destination for those looking to “rough it” in the wild. No, the island has too many upscale hotel rooms and restaurants for that. But for exploring a beautiful seaside setting, touring some grand old homes, sipping a margarita overlooking the ocean after a long walk—few places in the Southeast can beat it. Parking at all the island’s beaches is free; however, there is an $8 per day fee to access the island. u

WOMEN EMPOWERED 2025

BAGGETT LAW

CEO and Co-Owner

Amanda Baggett is a lawyer, mom, wife, and community leader. With extensive litigation experience, she focuses on serious personal injury and wrongful death cases. She and her husband, Matt, own Baggett Law, a boutique personal injury and wrongful death law firm with three offices across Duval and St. Johns Counties.

At Baggett Law, Amanda’s strategic leadership has driven the firm’s success. Together, Amanda and Matt are dedicated to achieving outstanding results for their clients in the least amount of time possible. Amanda also dedicates her time to organizations that support children and families. She leads Baggett Law’s charitable initiatives and provides pro bono legal counsel to families in need. She has served on various local boards, including MOSH, the Early Learning Coalition of Duval, and Jacksonville Country Day School.

Amanda has earned numerous accolades for her work and community involvement. She was honored as a 2014 Jacksonville Business Journal Women of Influence. Since 2009, Amanda has been named to the Florida Super Lawyers list each year and has received multiple recognitions from Forbes and other publications. Amanda is a dynamic leader who is committed to compassion and human rights, both in her legal practice and personal life.

BARTRAM SPA & SALON

Soothe Both Mind & Body in Perfect Surroundings

At Bartram Spa and Salon, our commitment to enhancing every client's experience goes hand in hand with our dedication to excellence in the beauty and wellness industry. For over 30 years, I have been privileged to serve in this field, and it has been my passion to create a spa that not only offers tranquility but also provides education. Our team of highly skilled professionals shares this vision, and we believe that continuous training and education are paramount to delivering the best services to our clients.

In addition to our esteemed team of beauty and wellness experts, we are proud to have Dr. David Mobley, a board-certified plastic surgeon, as our medical director. Dr. Mobley's unwavering support for education and training for all medical professionals in our spa underscores our dedication to offering safe and effective treatments.

The Bartram Spa and Salon, a 9,000-sqaure-foot paradise, is designed to be a sanctuary that promotes good health, graceful aging, and the pursuit of one's best life. We specialize in anti-aging experiences, harnessing the latest advancements in injectables, skincare treatments, chemical peels, PRP, lasers, and energy devices. Our extensive range of offerings also includes hair treatments, massage therapy, microblading, body treatments, and nail services. Additionally, our women's lounge provides access to a steam room and sauna for you to enjoy before or after your customized treatments.

Our goal is simple yet profound: to provide a world-class spa experience that leaves an indelible mark on both our clients and our staff. We look forward to being a part of your journey toward beauty, wellness, and rejuvenation.

ALLISON WALCUTT

Redefining Marketing & Brand Management

F

or over two decades, Allison Walcutt has been at the forefront of marketing, media, and business strategy, working with companies of all sizes—from local startups to globally recognized brands. But her expertise goes beyond just marketing. As an entrepreneur who has owned and operated multiple businesses, Allison understands firsthand the challenges business owners face—not just in marketing, but in operations, growth strategy, and brand management. This unique perspective allows her to approach marketing as a business problem solver, not just a creative expert.

Through years of experience, Allison realized that many companies struggle to keep their branding and marketing efforts aligned with their overall business strategy. Too often, businesses either rely on fragmented marketing services that don’t communicate effectively, or they lack the internal structure to manage branding and execution efficiently. Seeing this gap, she created Branded Marketing—not just as a marketing firm, but as a true brand and project management partner. Unlike traditional agencies, Branded Marketing operates as an extension of a company’s internal team, ensuring that every aspect of a brand—its messaging, digital presence, and marketing execution— works in sync to drive results.

Allison leads a team of seasoned media and marketing professionals, each bringing expertise across branding, content, digital marketing, and design. Whether a company needs a one-off project like a website or logo, a fully managed brand strategy, or collaborative support for an in-house marketing team, Branded Marketing strategically integrates to provide structure, expertise, and execution where it’s needed most.

Beyond helping businesses directly, Branded Marketing also whitelabels services for other agencies, providing behind-the-scenes marketing execution that allows smaller firms to scale without growing their in-house teams. This flexible, modern approach to marketing eliminates the outdated agency model and creates a streamlined, results-driven partnership for businesses.

At her core, Allison is more than just a marketing expert—she is a business strategist, problem solver, and leader in redefining how brands are built and managed. With a deep understanding of both entrepreneurship and corporate strategy, she continues to empower businesses with smart, strategic marketing that truly makes an impact.

EDWARDS & RAGATZ, P.A.

Katherine Loper, Katie DeSantis McCranie, Jennifer Reiber & Jennie Edwards Tyler

Katherine Loper, Katie DeSantis McCranie, Jennifer Reiber, and Jennie Edwards Tyler are passionate about justice and committed to their roles as dedicated attorneys, mothers, and community leaders.

Katherine Loper earned her J.D. in 2002 from Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law and has focused on plaintiff’s personal injury litigation throughout her career. A Jacksonville resident for over 30 years, she volunteers at her daughter’s school and serves as a religion teacher at her church.

Katie DeSantis McCranie received her J.D. in 2001 from Florida Coastal School of Law. With over 20 years of experience, she represents plaintiffs in personal injury cases against large corporations and insurance companies. Katie also volunteers at her children’s school and with various community organizations.

Jennifer Reiber, a 1999 graduate of Florida State University College of Law, has represented both plaintiffs and defendants. She also served as a professor and dean at Florida Coastal School of Law. Jennifer now focuses on family time and serves as an educational surrogate for the St. Johns County School District.

Jennie Edwards Tyler, a 2020 graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law, worked as an Assistant State Attorney before joining Edwards & Ragatz in personal injury law. She enjoys spending time with her family and riding horses.

Edwards & Ragatz is renowned for securing some of the largest medical malpractice and personal injury verdicts in Florida’s history, with a reputation for integrity and compassion. This dedicated team is proud to serve the Jacksonville community and beyond, bringing justice to their clients with unmatched results.

904-333-4431

allison@brandedmktg.com

BrandedMktg.com

FLORIDA WOMEN’S LAW GROUP

Heather Brooke Quick and Anna Durstein

Did you know–We have a podcast and radio show!

Radio show and podcast “Women Winning Divorce,” hosted by Heather Quick, CEO and owner of Florida Women’s Law Group, provides women with valuable insights and guidance on navigating family law. Each week, Heather explores key aspects of family law to guide women through the emotional and legal challenges they face. With over 20 years of legal expertise, Heather is passionate about advocating for women and helping them build happier, healthier lives. Tune in as Heather and her guests tackle a wide range of family law topics, including divorce, timesharing (formerly custody), alimony, paternity, narcissism, domestic violence, and more, offering insights and strategies to empower women on their journey to a brighter future. Women Winning Divorce, now entering its fourth year, serves as a beacon for women navigating the intricate landscape of divorce and family law.

Why a podcast/radio show?

Simply put, we saw an opportunity to educate our existing, future, and past clients via their own legal team and on their own time!

In 2025, our reach extends nationally and beyond, as we collaborate with esteemed guests from across the United States and around the globe, exploring diverse approaches to divorce. The podcast, “Women Winning Divorce,” reflects the core values of Florida Women’s Law Group, championing women as they navigate the complexities of family law. Contrary to the misconception that divorce lacks winners, here at Florida Women’s Law group, we are redefining victory. Winning at divorce, for us, means gaining freedom, achieving goals, and preserving your dignity- all in the name of empowerment.

To listen to the show on most major streaming platforms, scan the QR code below, or listen every Tuesday at 6:30 PM on WSOS, 103.9

It’s time for you to make a change, and we’re here to help you achieve a more stable, healthy, and happy future. If you or someone you know is going through divorce or is thinking about a divorce, reach out to us. Let us assess your current situation and guide you toward a future where your happiness takes center stage. Call us at 904-822-3839 or scan the QR code below to schedule a preliminary call.

If you have questions, a guest you’d like to be featured, or a topic you would like Heather to cover, email us at  marketing@4womenlaw.com

GROUP 4 DESIGN

Karie Kovacocy

and Leigh Gunn

Group 4 Design is a fully integrated architecture and interior design studio, led by Principal Architect- Karie Kovacocy and Interior Design Principal - Leigh Gunn. Our firm is committed to delivering thoughtful, innovative projects that are responsive to the unique needs of each client.

Our culture is built on balance, seamlessly integrating time and quality, functionality and design, and program and budget. We extend this philosophy to our employees, fostering an environment that supports personal well-being, professional growth, and creative inspiration. Our goal is to empower each team member to excel in their respective discipline.

At Group 4, we believe the right design team blends expertise and innovation with a client’s program, brand and budget, ensuring exceptional design at all levels. Over the years, we have developed an award-winning portfolio of multifamily, commercial, and adaptivereuse projects, while continuing to expand on our expertise in corporate, hospitality, and healthcare sectors.

As a women-owned business, Group 4 has spent over a decade supporting female-focused organizations such as Pace Center for Girls, Rethreaded, and Hubbard House.

Our passion extends beyond design - we are deeply committed to collaboration within our team, our profession, and our community.

1939 Hendricks Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-353-5900 www.g4designinc.com

HEALTH POINTE JACKSONVILLE ACUPUNCTURE + WELLNESS CLINIC

Empowering Women Through Specialized Health & Wellness Care

Dr. Julee Miller, AP, DACHM, FABORM

At Health Pointe Jacksonville Acupuncture + Wellness Clinic, we believe women deserve healthcare as unique as they are. As Jacksonville’s premier integrative medicine clinic, we provide specialized care that addresses the root causes of women’s health concerns—rather than masking symptoms with one-size-fits-all solutions.

With a background in sports medicine and rehabilitation spanning 30 years, I’ve seen too many women dismissed, misdiagnosed, or offered inadequate treatments. Women with endometriosis suffered for years before diagnosis. Others were prescribed birth control for irregular cycles without investigating deeper issues. Too many couples were labeled with “unexplained infertility” and left without answers.

At Health Pointe Jacksonville, we’re changing this narrative. As one of only two ABORM-certified fertility specialists in Northeast Florida, I help women struggling with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency, PCOS, and Endometriosis conceive naturally and improve live birth outcomes. Our pelvic floor rehabilitation program restores function and confidence for women facing postpartum incontinence or chronic pain.

Beyond fertility, our expertise extends to chronic pain, autoimmune conditions, and neurological disorders, earning us a place on the 2004 Olympic Sports Rehabilitation Team. We also lead innovative Long COVID recovery treatments, helping women overcome brain fog, fatigue, and neuropathy with Ozone Therapy, FSM microcurrent, and Brain Tap therapy.

The words we hear most from our patients? “For the first time, I feel heard.” Our mission is simple: to empower women with comprehensive, compassionate, and cutting-edge care, ensuring no woman has to suffer in silence.

At Health Pointe Jacksonville, women go from hopeless to healthy, reclaiming vitality and embracing their full potential.

3840 Belfort Rd., Ste. 305, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 448-0046 | HPJax.com

AMANDA (MANDY) MORROW

Broker Associate with COMPASS

With over 40 years of sales and management experience at Fortune 50 companies, Amanda (Mandy) Morrow has built a distinguished real estate career since 2005, combining leadership, vision, and deep industry expertise.

As a Broker Associate at Compass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Mandy takes a results-driven approach, providing highly personalized service tailored to each client’s unique needs. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition on the Jacksonville Business Journal’s List of Top Residential Real Estate Agents (2022, 2023, 2024) and Jacksonville Magazine’s prestigious Women Empowered list for consecutive years.

Mandy’s extensive industry connections—including bankers, title companies, attorneys, inspectors, and designers—allow her to seamlessly navigate even the most complex transactions, ensuring clients receive unparalleled support.

Whether you’re ready to buy or sell now or are planning for the future, Mandy is here to guide you. With sales in Ponte Vedra Beach communities, such as notable oceanfront estates, Sawgrass Country Club, Sawgrass Players Club, Marsh Landing Country Club, Nocatee, and throughout the Beaches area, she invites you to embark on your real estate journey with confidence. Contact Mandy today!

PAJCIC & PAJCIC

Janeen Mira, Betsy Cardenas & Meredith Ross

J

aneen Mira, Betsy Cardenas and Meredith Ross are Pajcic & Pajcic attorneys who are passionate about fighting for justice. They work hard every day to give their clients the best outcome possible.

Janeen Mira focuses on major trucking, auto negligence, and wrongful death cases. She is Vice-Chair of the Florida Justice Association’s Trucking Committee. She had a recent $141 million verdict for a log truck crash. The former prosecutor has served on many charitable foundation boards. She’s an avid runner, competing in dozens of marathons and half-marathons.

Betsy Cardenas handles some of the firm’s most significant injury and death cases, including the firm’s $1 billion verdict in a fatal truck crash and multi-million-dollar negligent security and design cases. When she’s not fighting for her clients in and outside the courtroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband and one-year old son.

Meredith Ross is an appellate attorney who handles the firm’s trial support, behind the scenes legal research, and appeals. Before joining Pajcic & Pajcic, she served as a law clerk for two federal judges, and worked at an appellate litigation firm. Meredith is also involved with a non-profit supporting her neighborhood school. She enjoys traveling with her husband and three children.

TEN SALON

Sheila Powers Alesch, Founder

For over two decades, Sheila and her talented team at Ten Salon have been providing one of the best guest experiences on the First Coast. They are devoted to client happiness, and strive to exceed expectations with every visit. From fresh cuts to gorgeous balayage and color, the Ten team is expertly trained and distinctly talented. Ten has not only established itself as a local favorite but also a trendsetter, continually raising the bar for both client experience and also career development for her team.

Sheila’s passion has been unwavering in her efforts to elevate not only the level of service, but also the entire salon industry as a nationally recognized career path. Ten Salon’s stylists make excellent pay, have benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, retirement accounts with company match and flexible schedules-all in a luxury working environment that is designed with the guests’ and the team’s comfort in mind. Ten Salon truly provides a special environment for established and growing stylists alike.

We are thrilled to announce that this spring, Ten Salon will open its newest and largest location at the South Beach Regional Shopping Center in Jacksonville Beach! This new space is designed to be aesthetically stunning with an exceptional working environment. Modeled after our Neptune Beach location, it integrates efficiency, creativity, and warm hospitality.

As we step into this next chapter, Sheila is filled with excitement for what lies ahead. “We are creating an environment where we can grow stronger together and elevate our guests experience like never before.”

We can’t wait to see you there!

Surviving illness and divorce, one local family builds a home to embrace what comes next.

START a fresh

BY LAUREN WEEDON HOPKINS | PHOTOS BY MURIEL SILVA PHOTOGRAPHY

“I

t began with a painting of a tennis court,” says Janet Thomasson, owner/designer of Thomasson Interiors. The vibrant pink and green painting by Kelly Mason Fielden of Mason Brookes Design now hangs in Casey Cohen’s kitchen. “The pop of color was the inspiration for the home’s aesthetic,” she adds. Appropriately, Casey and Janet were also tennis partners and longtime friends.

Casey Cohen has persevered through many challenges—her daughter is a pediatric leukemia survivor, her son has autism, and a marriage that didn’t survive. She had been living in the same Ponte Vedra neighborhood since 2011 when she found her new home and took the leap to purchase it. “This home was a fresh start,” recalls Casey.

With the help of Janet and her partner Serena Schupler, Casey worked with builder Brad Scott to take the home down to the studs, redo the floors, add a second story, and put in a swimming pool. It took about a year for completion and Casey’s family moved into their fully remodeled home in 2022.

Today, her son is 14 and her daughter is 12 (and cancer-free for 7 years!). It’s the perfect place for her thriving family. “I love color. This is a happy house,” exclaims Casey.

Interior design is in Janet’s blood. Her mother and her big sister were both interior designers. However, even though her college roommate was majoring in design, Janet decided to major in business. After college, she worked in Chicago and New York in

marketing positions. She enjoyed helping friends decorate their homes but it was just a hobby at the time.

After having children and with her husband’s encouragement, she and a partner opened a design studio in Annapolis, Maryland in 2009. Then, her family relocated to Ponte Vedra, and she started her own design business in 2014. She joined forces with partner Serena Schupler in 2020. “I prefer neutrals, clean lines and a classic look,” Janet shares of her design philosophy. “Casey loves color, which was fun to incorporate. Color is happy.”

Janet believes one’s home should tell a story and reflect their unique personality. “Adding something old and personal, every time you walk by it in your house, it will remind you of those memories,” she says.

The home she designed for Casey features fun bursts of color and beautiful furnishings, but it also had to be practical and functional to accommodate her two children and two dogs, Bolt and Pumpkin. Bolt, a Bernedoodle, was her daughter’s “Dream” at age 3 through Dreams Come True, a local nonprofit wish-granting organization for children battling life-threatening illnesses. Pumpkin is a mini doodle.

Guests can experience the vibrant color of Casey’s home even before they step foot inside. Her front door is painted a stunning aqua, which is carried into the foyer and a table on which “the queen of the house” vase welcomes all.

“That vase was the first piece Janet and Serena bought for the house, along with a lemon bowl for the kitchen,” says Casey. “When I saw the pieces, I

adored them right away and I knew I was going to love everything about working with Janet and Serena to decorate my house.” The design duo had traveled to Palm Beach for market and sourced many accessories, furniture, wallpaper and fabrics there.

“I love the Palm Beach feel and the little details Janet and Serena incorporated, like the striped awning on the front of the house,” she adds.

Wallpaper is another design aesthetic Casey appreciates. One bathroom features the signature Dorothy Draper Brazilliance wallpaper of the classic banana leaf pattern. The master bedroom has grass cloth wallpaper. “I would paper the whole house if I could,” Casey laughs.

Janet’s favorite room is the family room because it’s functional and fun. The built-in bookshelves feature custom hardware with pink jewels at the center. “I always wanted a green velvet sofa and Janet found one for me.

The children’s bedroom designs reflect their hobbies. Swimming is Casey’s son’s favorite pastime. He enjoys the ocean, the beach and sharks, a theme Janet wove into his bedroom with antique lanterns and shark head clips as clothing hooks.

Casey’s daughter’s bedroom is very cheerful, with pretty pinks and bright yellows. Her gold flamingo lamp is a whimsical favorite. Her bathroom design was created around a painting of a butterfly gifted to Casey by a close friend as a birthday/Christmas gift as Casey was born on Christmas Day. It features fuchsia pink wallpaper and a feminine, scalloped-bottom vanity.

After many tough years, Casey and her children are now flourishing, much like the joyfulness reflected in their new home. “This is a warm, cozy cottage and a comfortable haven for our family,” she says. u

Starfish painting in navy blue by Beach House Art, $60

Hand-crafted white and blue sailing yacht model by The Nautical Company, $100

Day at the Beach

Decorating your Northeast Florida home in coastal style is the perfect way to bring ocean vibes into one’s living spaces, and it may spark joy in those with a love of the sand and surf—two things that make living in Jax so wonderful. Of course, not all First Coasters live within walking distance of the beach. But that doesn’t mean your interior decor can’t achieve a serene coastal vibe, even if you live west of The Ditch. Here are a few ideas to help bring the beach into your home this spring and summer.

Use a Light Color Palette. One of the first steps in any interior design project is choosing a color palette for walls, floors, and furniture. For a coastal look, select a light palette that mimics the colors of the ocean, sand and sunsets. Consider soft blue, light greens, white and beige. Pops of yellow are nice, too.

Incorporate Natural Materials. To evoke a relaxed beach environment in the home, use natural materials such as woven wicker, bamboo, driftwood, and rattan. These can be incorporated through furniture and decorative items or as accent pieces for walls and shelves.

Add Nautical Accents and Artwork. Nautical accents such as vintage sailing charts and maps, model sailing boats, driftwood and seashells are all perfect decorative pieces and go a long way towards creating a beachy feel. The artwork you select to adorn your walls will further add to the vibe, and you will want to select images such as seascapes, boats, and sea creatures. Keep it subtle, though. Too much of a good thing can leave your home looking like a cheesy seafood restaurant.

Bring in Plants. Using indoor plants to bring the outside inside adds life and freshness to any seaside-themed space. Succulents and air plants are ideal choices and, as well as adding to the aesthetic, can do wonders for both your physical and mental health.

Think Striped Accents.  Add striped accents through bedding, rugs, blankets, and pillows to create a beachy vibe. Blue and white is the perfect color combination, and it is a good idea to invest in quality fabrics such as linen or soft cotton to add to the cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Get Creative with Furniture. Incorporating nautical-themed furniture into the home is an ideal creative enhancement to the coastal theme. Great ideas for unique storage options include an antique captain’s chest as a coffee table or a bookcase that mimics an interior of a sailboat.

Light Some Candles. Investing in scented candles will leave your home  smelling amazing and really add to the atmosphere you are aiming to achieve. To recreate the feeling of spending a day at the beach being surrounded by the ocean breeze, opt for candles with notes of sandalwood, white tea, sea salt and coconut.

Take it Outside. If you have a garden, patio or terrace area, it is a wonderful opportunity to extend your beach theme outdoors. Using weathered wood, pebbles, seashells and maritime-themed decorations, create a beautiful coastal haven for relaxation and entertaining guests. u

MARKET WATCH

T he nation’s residential real estate market looks to be headed for an interesting year in 2025. In many regions, home prices are still rising, available inventories remain tight, and mortgage rates aren’t likely to swing dramatically lower during the year. And while Florida continues to lure newcomers in significant numbers, there are parts of the Sunshine State where sellers face headwinds. Recently analyzed “for sale” data on realtor.com from more than 900 U.S. metro areas, show that homes in many locations can expect to be on the market for more than 90 days. Topping the list of cities where sellers experienced some struggles was Key West, where the median days on the market was 105, with a median sales price of $1.27 million. In recent months, out of 1,345 listings, only eight saw prices increases while 224 experienced reductions. Also in the top fifteen nationally for days on the market were Naples/Marco Island (100), Punta Gorda (95) and Panama City (92). No Northeast Florida communities ranked in the top 50. u

Spring Flings

Two of the city’s long-standing springtime traditions are returning once again for 2025, and both are taking place in April. Patrons can expect about a dozen private residences to open their doors for guests for the 51st annual Riverside Avondale Preservation Home Tour April 12 and 13 ($25-$40) in the heart of one of the country’s largest recognized National Historic neighborhoods. This selfguided tour of local houses is soon followed by the 46th annual Historic Springfield Home & Garden Tour, set for Saturday and Sunday, April 26 and 27. Both fundraisers feature a collection of extra events such as VIP parties, group bike ride tours and more. Visit 904TIX.com for more information and to purchase tickets. u

Sale Away

A cold weather start of the year was reflected in a cool housing market across the First Coast. According to the Northeast Florida Association of Realtor’s latest analysis, the market saw a significant decrease in closed sales in January, something that is typical for the time of year. In fact, closed sales for single-family homes fell by nearly 40% month-over-month, totaling 1,114 transactions. Pending sales declined 15% and new listings rose more than 50% from December to January (3,340 homes). “Additionally, the Arctic freeze that found its way to Jacksonville also kept many folks in the warmth of their homes instead of outside looking for their next home, so it’s not surprising that days on the market trended up and pending sales trended down,” says NEFAR president Mario Gonzalez. The rise in inventory from 2024 is good news for buyers. In Duval County, the median price of a single-family home sits at $318,000. u

HOME IMPROVEMENT 101

With home sales trending lower in many parts of the country, more homeowners are looking to upgrade their current residences as opposed to shopping around for something new. Of course, home improvement projects come in countless variety and budgets. But what projects offer the most return on one’s investment? According to the National Association of Realtors, the top five are:

• Hardwood floor refinish: 147% back

• New wood flooring: 118% back

• Garage door: 100% back

• Insulation upgrade: 100% back

• New roofing: 100% back

Although a new roof costs significantly more than a new garage door, one-third of Realtors recommend making the investment— particularly if the homeowner plans to list the house for sale in the next few years. Also, insulation upgrades—with an estimated 100 percent return—are a relatively minor investment a household can benefit from in the present and future. “Upgrades to HVAC and insulation, including managing fresh air and humidity, is an upgrade that provides lots of value to owners,” says Mel Jones, executive director at the Virginia Center for Housing Research. “Home improvement priorities may vary depending on location, life stage, and personal needs. So, focus on targeted, intentional design changes that can make a significant impact.” u

Urban Renewal

Shiny new condo and apartment complexes are sprouting up across Northeast Florida faster than dollar weed on a front yard lawn. One recently unveiled project is both new and old at the same time. The Union Terminal Warehouse, a 330,000-squarefoot mixed-use development, located between Downtown, the Sports & Entertainment District and Springfield, started taking reservations for its loft-style apartments and office spaces earlier this spring. The former dry goods distribution center and warehouse has been converted into 228, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, as well as a coffee shop, 43 spaces for small business offices, a rooftop terrace and space for a restaurant. Resident amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, off-leash dog park, bike storage, electric vehicle charging stations, catering kitchen, lounge, DIY shop space and an A/V podcast studio. The cozy, one-bath studio units start at 539 square feet, leasing for between $1,314 and $1,364 per month. u

Knock, Knock

Your front door is not only the entryway in to your home, it is a key element that sets the tone for your property. Replacing a worn-down front door can have a number of advantages in terms of functionality and improving the aesthetic appeal of a house. With the spring cleaning season in full bloom, now is the ideal time to reconsider the item visitors first see when entering your home. A new front door can be an investment that pays off in ways you may never have realized. Among the benefits of a new door are:

Enhanced Curb Appeal. One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits to replacing your front door is the boost it will provide to your home’s curb appeal. A well-chosen door can create an attractive and welcoming entryway to your home and transform the exterior of the property. Whether you prefer to go for a traditional or more modern and contemporary design, the freedom is there to personalize one’s choice and create a lasting impression. For those looking to sell, a new front door can also increase the perceived value of your home and attract potential buyers.

Energy Efficiency. Replacing a front door with a newer, more functional model can help to improve the energy efficiency of a home. Older doors may not provide sufficient insulation and this means that there may be an increase in draughts, leading to higher energy consumption as your heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A modern energy-efficient front door can help to reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This will make your home a more comfortable environment in which to live and reduce energy bills over time, likely making it a worthwhile investment.

Improved Security. Your front door is the first point of entry in to your home, so it is vital that it is strong and reliable in order to protect one’s family and belongings. Reenforced frames, multi-point locking systems and toughened materials are all features that modern front doors may possess and can make it far more difficult for a break-in to occur. Also, modern technology means homeowners can install smart locks which will allow remote access to door locks. This can be ideal from a convenience perspective, as well as for added security. So, who’s there? u

Feeling Blue

Double-sided, pure linen quilted throw is fully reversible with a plain chambray option or wide chambray stripe. Made to a medium weight that is perfect to add extra warmth during the winter or use with a sheet in the summer. By Chalk Pink Linen, $220

 This cool blue Moroccan rug is perfect for high traffic areas. It can be placed all around the home and outdoors, too. Kasbah Ink Rugs are machine washable, stain resistant and made entirely from recycled plastic bottles, $200

 There are endless possibilities with Satara Australia’s Loft Modular Sofa, wrapped in textured Warwick fabrics.  Enhanced by its premium feather foam filling, it blends support and comfort, $2,500

This stylish floor lamp looks fantastic in both modern and contemporary interior design schemes. The sturdy bamboo base adds warmth and the cylindrical shade is available in six muted colors including black, white and blue denim. By Lime Lace, $450

 This denim blue sheep cushion by J.J. Textile captures the essence of rustic country living. The reversible cushion offers the versatility of two designs in one, with an inverted color scheme on the back, allowing you to switch up your decor with a simple flip, $50

hot seats

Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of must-try eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest

continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Beautiful, the Carol King Musical, April 3-May 11, and My Fair Lady May 15-June 22. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza

This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

GUIDE to the GUIDE:

B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch

$–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above

These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities.

NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

Salento Colombian Steakhouse

Aqua Grill

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-of-the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

Argyle

Located inside TPC Sawgrass and adjacent to The Yards pickleball and golf club, the menu features jumbo scallops, 14oz. ribeye and PEI mussels. 254 Alta Mar Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach (3953114; argylepub.com). L, D, SB

bb’s Restaurant & Bar

Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (306-0100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.

The Bearded Pig

A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); 1700 3rd St., Jacksonville Beach (518-3915) thebeardedpigbbq.com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis. net). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (6461478; bluebamboojacksonville. com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid

Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional

ingredients like Thai basil, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit BarB-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

Caffé Andiamo

A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo complements their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina

Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com). L,D, $$$.

City Grille & Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com). L, D, $$

Coastal Wine & Tapas

A standout in Nocatee’s growing collection of dining spots and shops, the interior is dressed in warm woods, hightop tables, the most breathtaking chandelier you've ever seen, and more bottles of reds, whites and sparkling wines than one could count. New menu additions include Marcona Almond

Continued on page 113

Smothered & Covered

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

Whether it’s the existential threats posed by nefarious weather, combative political climate, upheavals at work, or a relationship on the rocks, it’s easy to understand that mood-boosting, high-fat and high-sugar comfort foods can be an effective remedy during stressful times. While some of the most popular are pizza, ice cream and chocolate, the early days of Spring may call for something considerably warmer and cozier. Whether you’re working to overcome dramas, or simply want to bring a little warmth and sunshine into an otherwise dreary day, there are places in Jacksonville serving deliciously smothered and covered comfort foods.

Crispy French fries, especially those loaded with toppings, are at the top of the list never-fail foods. If you agree, Epik on Atlantic Boulevard has more than a dozen highly creative, fla-

vor-forward options that should not be missed. Of note is the Big Fatty Fries layered with bleu cheese, cheese sauce, gravy, sriracha aioli, sunny egg, chopped bacon, scallions and hot sauce ($16). Well known for juicy burgers, Epik’s J’ville Poutine pairs datil seasoned fries with cheese curds, gravy, bacon, datil sauce, hot sauce and scallions ($12). If you prefer Asian flavors, its Korean barbecue fries are tossed in gochugaru red pepper flakes, then topped with gochujang aioli, sriracha aioli, scallions and kimchi ($8).

If the one-two punch of potatoes and pulled pork lifts your spirits, head over to Coop 303 for the Loaded Tots, dripping with barbecue pulled pork, queso, Fresno chiles and hot sauce aioli ($13). Similarly, Valley Smoke in Palm Valley offers a brisket poutine, a hearty serving of barbecue brisket, white cheddar

cheese curds, smokey gravy and Alabama white sauce ($14).

Foods smothered in an abundance of gravy are another way to beat the blues, warming you from the inside out. Head over to Shut Em Down, a classic Southern joint on the Westside, for the pork chops ($16), fried chicken ($12) or meatloaf ($12), each generously coated in brown gravy, as well as oxtail in oxtail gravy ($18). You may also enjoy some of the options at Barbara Jeans on the Water in Palm Valley. Whether it’s the country-fried steak consisting of hand-battered cubed steak drenched in your choice of cream or brown gravy ($19), chicken fried chicken with cream gravy ($19), or meat loaf, proclaimed as “better than Mom’s or Grandma’s,” served with either tomato sauce or brown gravy ($19), one of these classics is sure to lift your spirits. Or at least fill your stomach.

Whiskey CakeChicken and Waffles

EpikSmothered French Fries

MetroDinerBiscuits with Gravy

O f course, one of the most soothing, satisfying and warming dishes to come out of the South is biscuits and gravy. Metro Diner (seven area locations) offers this classic, served with two eggs and hash browns ($12). If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try the chicken and waffles from the recently arrived Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar , a dish that tastefully marries malted waffles, crispy chicken tenders, sunny side eggs, maple syrup and house country gravy ($20).

Another top contender in the world of comfort food, also a Southern classic, is mac-ncheese. While frequently listed on menus as a side dish, the best ones are proudly served as a main course. This is certainly the case at Spliff’s Gastropub in Riverside, where you can enjoy the String Cheese Incident, an incredibly cheesy presentation that blends cheddar, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, smoked gouda and goat cheeses ($15). If you like mac-n-cheese with a bit more flair, they have a long list of tasty options from which to choose.

While the world’s turmoil can dampen one’s outlook from time to time, there’s plenty of tasty and soul-warming relief available all over town. Just pick a destination, grab a fork, dig in and smile u

“This book isn’t just a collection of cocktail recipes, it’s a celebration of Southern culture and hospitality,” says chef and author Belinda Smith-Sullivan. “Every drink and dish are crafted to bring people together, spark joy and create unforgettable moments.” Those moments can be elevated with ideas from her new hardcover book, Cocktails, Southern Style (Gibbs Smith, $22), featuring approximately 90 recipes for libations and small bites to pair with beverages. From brunch favorites to summertime porch sippers, Smith-Sullivan dives into all sorts of spritzes, shandies and effervescent creations. Following is a recipe for her Cider Sidecar, a cocktail that takes the traditional sidecar combination of cognac, Cointreau, and lemon and adds one of the South’s favorite nonalcoholic beverages to the mix.

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. fresh apple cider

2 oz. cognac

1 oz. Cointreau

1 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Lemon twists, for rimming and garnish Granulated sugar, for rimming Apple wheels (optional)

Glass: champagne coupe

METHOD

Pour the cider, cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice into a shaker, and top with ice. Shake until very chilled. Rub the rim of the glass with a piece of lemon zest, then dip the rim of the glass into the sugar. Strain the cocktail into the coupe and garnish with lemon twist and apple wheels (if using). u

Chips, Dips and Sips

join us for a guacamole and Margarita crawl across jax

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

When the sun’s shining, nothing beats a bowl of guacamole, a basket of crunchy corn chips and a cold margarita. Salt on the rim, please. Cinco de Mayo may come but once a year but there’s no need to wait to enjoy some of the best flavors courtesy of our neighbors to the South. Here are some of our favorite local places to enjoy a pair of Mexican classics.

With over 100 tequilas in stock, Flying Iguana in Neptune Beach gives diners plenty of choice. Their Swap Shop Margarita ($12) is a winner, made with Espero Blanco tequila and house-made sour mix. Available frozen, on the rocks, and in flavors including strawberry, prickly pear, raspberry and mango—it will take more than one visit to try them all.

The guacamole ($13) is prepared table-side when ordered, a nice perk if one prefers extra jalapeño, cilantro or squeeze of lime. One order is plenty big enough to share.

At Taco Lu, another Beaches favorite, the velvety smooth guacamole is topped with house-roasted pepitas. They add a nice bit of flavor and crunch. The Tamarind Margarita ($10) is awesome, love the sweet and tangy flavors of the Sangria-Rita ($9) and recommend spending warm summer days with a Blackberry Jalapeno Margarita in hand. All this, plus an enormous tequila and mezcal selection… What’s not to like?

Ask for a seat on the back patio, weather permitting.

Taqueria Cinco is a small, undeniably authentic Mexican taqueria in Riverside. The guacamole hits the spot—a simple but delicious combination of smashed avocado, onion, lime and cilantro. If you like it on the spicy side, try the “chingon” version with jalapeño, tomato and

house-made tajin. And ask for some of the pickled jalapenos. The Margarita Especial ($9) featuring orange-infused tequila, rimmed with house-made tajin is a top seller, as is the Margarita Picante with jalapeno-infused tequila. The ribeye carne asada ($22), Mexican street corn and chorizo tacos are menu standouts.

The guacamole at Cantina Louie, a national franchise operation with four area locations, is a signature menu item, made traditional style with tomatoes, lime, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño ($9). Perfect with a classic Margarita Louie or frozen Fro-Jo’-Rita (both available in several fruit flavors) or pick from their list of specialty margaritas. The Spicy Watermelon or Spicy Pineapple are potent choices, made with jalapeño-infused tequila. u

Cantina Louie

Taco Lu

Swap Shop Margaritas

Flying Iguana

If you got up off the sofa to get another beer or use the powder room, you might have missed it. In the third quarter of the Super Bowl, 5-year-old DeLee Parker and her family were featured in a Frito-Lay commercial. Titled The Little Farmer, the commercial promoted Lays brand potato chips with the tagline “Lay’s are made from real potatoes, and our potatoes come from real people,” The 60-second spot ends with a photo of DeLee holding two potatoes from the family’s Parker Produce in St. Johns County. “Our family is happy and honored to be chosen by Frito-lay to be in this commercial,” says DeLee’s dad Jeffrey.” “Our farm has contracted with them to provide quality potatoes since 1964. Our family has been farming in St. Johns County since 1937.” Two other farming families from the area are featured in a collage at the end of the commercial, too—Wesley Smith of Smith Farms, Steve Singleton, his wife April, and their three sons. u

A SUB ABOVE

Success Story

Ten years ago, a local ice pop company started with a single tricycle cart and a dream. Today, Guanabana grown to a brick-andmortar shop, recently opened at The Palms at Gate Parkway. A purveyor of fruit-based frozen treats, house-made ice cream sundaes, milkshakes and tropical smoothies with a Latin twist, Guanabana was founded by Julietta and Oliver Mosqueda, natives of Colombia and Venezuela respectively. Strawberry, mango, Colombian coffee, pineapple, coconut, papaya, banana— the flavor combinations are near-endless. “This opening is not just about a story. It’s about a community coming together to enjoy the simple, joyful pleasures of life,” says Julietta. “We started with a dream and a tricycle, and now we’re here thanks to the incredible support of Jacksonville.” u

Something's Brewing

Florida’s craft beer industry has enjoyed tremendous growth over the last decade. There were less than 70 craft brewers in the state ten years ago. Today, there are nearly 400 in operation, with a combined economic impact of more than $4 billion annually. That’s a lot, but there is plenty of room to grow. Recently, researchers at the University of Florida surveyed 582 Florida adults to learn about their alcohol consumption and purchasing habits. Some of their findings were surprising, including that approximately three-quarters of beer drinkers said they purchase craft brews at least some of the time, and that women purchased craft beer only slightly less frequently than men. Also, among surveyed generations, baby boomers purchased craft beer the least often, and their median monthly craft beer expenditure, $25, was half that of millennials, who purchase it most often. However, Florida’s large retiree population presents significant opportunity to grow their customer base. “Brewers shouldn’t discount these other market segments, especially when they’re making decisions about how they label their beer or how they advertise,” says the study’s author and UF assistant professor Nathan Palardy. “They need to be thinking outside the box in terms of who they target to gain market share.” u

It’s a little out of the way, but it is very easy to find. Just look for the 165foot, black-and-white striped tower standing next to it. The Tin Pickle Local Gedunk isn’t the primary reason most visit the 151-year-old St. Augustine Lighthouse, but the unusual name and unusually tasty eats make touring the historic site all that much better. The tiny snack shop, located inside a World War II-era Coast Guard garage, serves hot dogs, soft pretzels, soups, baked goods, fudge and, of course, house-made pickles. The hot dogs come slathered in toppings such as black bean salsa, mango chutney, feta and banana peppers and more. Drinks include local beer, wine, sangria and coffee. The name Tin Pickle comes from sailor’s slang for a submarine and “gedunk” refers to the canteen on large Navy vessels. Open daily. u

Dinner Date

Fine whiskey and perfectly smoked meat make for a wonderfully tasty pair. Both came together for the fifth annual Bourbon & Brisket, a fundraiser for Feeding Northeast Florida held February 1 at Strings Sports Brewery in Jacksonville Beach. Food and drinks were served by local favorites including Four Rivers Smokehouse, Bono’s, Manifest Distilling and St. Augustine Distillery. Live music, whiskey tastings, games and an auction rounded out the night’s entertainment. The fifth annual event, which drew nearly 300 guests this year, raises awareness about food insecurity experienced by more than 270,000 people in the region.  u

Crusted Goat Cheese & Fig Spread, Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce, and Signature Coastal Angus Beef Sliders. Wines sold by the glass, bottle and three-tasting flights. 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Suite B, Nocatee Town Center (395-3520, coastalwinemarket.com). D, $$.

Coop 303

Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring hot honey-glazed salmon, chicken and waffles and pulled pork sliders. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes, and is home to the eight-piece fried chicken basket. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303.com). L, D, SB, $$.

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crabcrusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorncrusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (819-6018, KesslerCollection.com/costabrava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cowford Chophouse

Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster. 101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics,

plus newer options like a housemade fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub.com. L, D, SB, $$

David's

A fine-dining landmark in Fernandina Beach for some 20 years, this chef-driven eatery features an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wagyu beef, Australian rack of lamb, pan-seared Dover sole and seafood gnocchi bouillabaisse in coconut broth. 802 Ash St., Amelia Island (310-6049, ameliaislanddavids.com) D, $$$

Eleven South Bistro

This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth.com). L, D, $$$$.

The Fish Company

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone. Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2460123; thefishcojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana.com); Iguana on Park, 3638 Park St., Avondale (834-8383, iguanaonpark.com). L, D, SB, $$

Continued on page 116

Tampa Bay Bound

Returning for its third year, the  Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival is back on the Gulf coast’s waterfront for five days of culinary adventure April 8-12. In all, there will be six events including four- and fivecourse meals paired with wine and cocktails. Experience St. Pete and Experience Tampa help kick off the foodie fetes with two nights of exclusive seated dinners at select restau-

rants in each community. Come Friday evening, there’s Irvine’s Spirits Chef Showdown ($160), a local culinary challenge starring 16 area chefs and hosted by celebrity chef Robert Irvine. “Tampa Bay’s thriving food and beverage scene continues to flourish, and this year’s expanded festival reflects that with the addition of more restaurants and incredible chef talent,” says Valerie Roy, director of mar-

Berry Delicious

keting at CI Management, producers of the event. “We’re excited to welcome both locals and visitors to savor the very best this region has to offer.” The festival’s finale Grand Tasting ($150 in advance) on Saturday at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park features a roster of more than 40 of the Tampa area’s premier dining destinations serving house specialties, as well as international wines and craft cocktails.

Did you know strawberry shortcake is the state’s official dessert? It is. In fact, Florida produces approximately 11 percent of the nation’s strawberries, with most of the berries growing during the winter when other states cannot produce fresh fruit. In Plant City and the surrounding counties, there are some 14,000 acres of strawberry fields under cultivation, making the Sunshine State the second largest producing region in the country. Peak growing season in Florida extends into early spring, depending on factors such as daytime temperatures and rain. Some of the state’s larger strawberry growers, such as the Parksdale Farm Market in Plant City, welcomes visitors in spring and fall. According to experts at the University of Florida, strawberries don’t ripen after picked, so select fruit that is fully red so you can enjoy them at peak sweetness and flavor. Also, berries are best eaten at room temperature and don’t wash or remove the stems until ready to consume for best flavor, texture and nutrients. u

REMEMBER WHEN

It can be hard to imagine with the rapid residential and commercial growth that is spreading across northern and western St. Johns County, but time was when the region was peppered with agricultural operations, orange groves and potato fields. Among the pioneering farms in the area was the  Wetumpka Fruit Company , a family affair established in 1895, and recently recognized with a historical marker placed in the town of Hastings. Hailing from Massachusetts, the Leonard family would build a 1,300-acre farm on which were grown grapefruit, oranges, and tangerines, as well as vegetables. Following freezing weather during the 1890s, potatoes became the crop of choice for Wetumpka and other area growers. By the 1950s, the farm was shipping more than 350 rail carloads of produce each year. According to the inscription on the historical marker, erected at the corner of Hastings Boulevard and Leonard Road, “All of Wetumpka’s citrus trees were destroyed in January 1983 by a severe freeze, which eliminated all commercial citrus production north of Orlando.” Sadly, a tasty legacy lost. u

A Jax Beach Icon for 20+ Years

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes such as French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

Mellow Mushroom

With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom.com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a family-run establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro. com/ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.

Le Petit Paris Café

Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this long-time neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. The lengthy dinner menu includes Mediterranean favorites like linguine and clams, pan-seared bronzino and woodfired pizzas. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezzalunajax. com). D, $$$.

Midtown Table

A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macarons and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparisjax.com). B, L, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (396-9922; matthewsrestaurant. com). D, $$$$.

Restaurant Medure

This restaurant features highend favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (543-3797; restaurantmedure.com). D, $$$.

A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable.medurebrothers.com). L, D, $$.

Mojo Bar-B-Que

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (3816670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Mossfire Grill

A fixture near 5 Points for two decades, Mossfire serves Southwestern cuisine with a sophisticated flair. Menu classics include the chicken empanadas, ancho honey glazed salmon, and crab cakes topped with chipotle lime mayo. Try the gouda cheese quesadilla and the Mexican street corn. 1537 Margaret St., Riverside (355-4434; mossfire.com). L, D, $$.

Nineteen

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.

O-Ku Sushi

O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay

An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome

of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay.com). D, SB, $$$$.

Peony Asian Bistro

Known for their modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes, their strip mall location belies the quality of their Cantonese-style plates and inviting atmosphere. Peony offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. A must order is the peking duck. 10586 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (268-3889). L, D, $$.

Philly’s Finest

When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz— each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (2417188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.

Continued on page 120

Midtown Table

Lemon Orzo Chicken with Kale

BY CHEF MATTHEW MEDURE | PHOTOS BY ANDY VARNES

Matthew’s Restaurant has been a San Marco fine dining standout for a quarter-century. Founder and executive chef Matthew Medure’s culinary roots run deep in Northeast Florida, dating back to 1991 when he arrived to help open the signature restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Since then, he and brother David have created an award-winning collection of eateries ranging from gourmet burger joints (M Shack) to a classic bistro (Rue Saint Marc) to a Ponte Vedra Beach favorite (Restaurant Medure). If one can cook it, chances are Matthew has, and done so many times. Here, he shares the recipe of a relatively simple dish of Lemon Orzo Chicken with Kale, one sure to please even the most finicky gourmand.

INGREDIENTS

2 Tbls butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 lemons. one sliced thin & one juiced

6 chicken thighs, bone-in

2 Tbls olive oil

Salt and pepper

1/4 cup avocado oil

1 cup orzo pasta

1/2 cup white wine

2 cups chicken broth

8-10 oz. kale, picked and washed

5-6 fresh thyme sprigs

PROCEDURE

1. Place a heavy bottom cast iron casserole dish on medium heat and melt the butter

2. Add the minced garlic and lemon slices and gently cook on both sides for a few minutes until softened

3. Transfer lemons and garlic into a small dish and reserve for later use

4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season generously with salt and fresh ground pepper

5. In the same pan, turn the heat up to medium high and add the avocado oil

6. Place the chicken skin side down and brown for a few minutes, then do the same on the other side. Transfer to a resting plate leaving the fat in the pan

7. In the same pan, add the orzo and lightly brown for a minute, then add the wine

8. Reduce the wine by half (about two minutes) then add chicken broth and kale

9. Transfer the chicken, skin side up, back to the pan, top the chicken with the reserved lemon slices and thyme

10. Add the juice of one lemon, place the lid on top and bake in a 350-degree oven for one hour

11. Remove the pan from the oven and let rest covered for 30 minutes before serving u

Poe’s Tavern

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

River & Post

Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting. The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy Cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjaxbeach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Safe Harbor Seafood

Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

Salento Colombian Steakhouse

Open since 2014, this familyoperated dining spot specializes in grilled salmon, pork chops, ribeye steaks, burgers and more. Also serving fried green plantains, arepas, corn cakes, rice and beans—all with a Latin American flair. 11018 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (374-5882); 60 Silver Forest Dr., St. Augustine (342-7557, salento steakhouse.com)

Rue Saint-Marc

Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue Saint-Marc strikes a

Salt Life Food Shack

“Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many

Town Hall

represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and a seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.

Sliders Oyster Bar

With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peel-and-eat shrimp and oysters on the halfshell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.

Surfwiches

Open since 2013, the Jax Beach sandwich shop specializes in hoagies, burgers, hot dogs and grilled cheeses. Top sellers include ribeye cheesesteaks, roast beef, the classic Reuben and the "outrageous" BLT. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (241-6996; surfwiches.com). L, D, $$.

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

Taqueria Cinco

Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist.

Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna.restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.

Taverna Oceana

The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest specializes in fruits of the sea. The raw bar serves classics like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera. 1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana. restaurant). L, D, $$

Town Hall

Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax.com). D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, Northof-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp. com). L, D, $$. u

Send food and restaurant news, ideas or questions to mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Only in Florida

Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

“Iwill do anything for you, Daddy.” So was the promise made by 22-year-old Hooters waitress Sophia Ross during a reported November 2024 traffic stop. A Sarasota Police Department officer’s body camera recorded the interaction following a traffic stop. “I can’t keep my hands off you,” she added, repeatedly calling him “Babe” and “Daddy.” “Unfortunately, you’re gonna have to,” the officer responded. The arrest report states witnesses saw Ross’s car driving erratically and the driver was asleep when first approached by police. Ross, who admitted being under the influence, explained she was not driving. “Swear to God,” she insisted. She was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Her blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit.

Speaking of police interactions, in December, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office stopped driver Jason Arrington because he allegedly drove through a red light. Bodycam video shows Arrington being compliant during the stop, even telling an officer that he had a pistol on his person. A second officer, Mindy Cardwell, attempted to extract the gun from Arrington’s waistband. Camera footage shows Cardwell tugging on the gun several times, including one when it discharged, with a bullet striking Arrington in the leg. Arrington’s traffic citation was dis-

missed a week later. CBS News reported Cardwell was fired from the Sheriff’s Office.

Elizabeth Hill-Brodigan, 47, became the principal of Roosevelt Elementary School in Cocoa Beach in May of 2024. According to the school’s website, she was “over the moon excited to be the new principal.” Apparently, she was so excited she decided to host a party—one at which more than 100 underage kids attended, many who were consuming the alcoholic beverages available in coolers at the home. Also attending was teacher Karly Anderson, 45. Both face charges of child neglect and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, say police reports.

In January, an unnamed Florida man was admitted to Tampa General Hospital with a very unusual condition—painless yellow lesions all over the soles of his feet, palms and elbows. The patient, approximately 40, reported that he had begun a carnivore-style diet eight months prior and was only eating meat, fish, eggs and cheese. He admitted to consuming up to nine pounds of cheese and butter per day. Doctors determined that excess cholesterol was the cause of the lesions, as it was oozing out of his blood vessels. Tests showed his cholesterol levels were five times more than normal. u